Beach Haven employees to take on fire department members in Throwback Softball Game

Photo by Ryan Morrill
Ball games were popular in Beach Haven
during the 1920s, before World War II.

Gather your friends, pack up the kids and head down to Walsh Field in Beach Haven on Sunday, May 24, at 1 p.m. for a Throwback Softball Game, where past and present Beach Haven borough employees will go up against members of the Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Co. The second of a variety of celebratory events slated for this summer in honor of the town’s 125th anniversary, the game is one Long Beach Island-goers will not want to miss.

“We get along well, so it’ll be a fun time – until the first pitch is thrown and someone gets hit with the ball,” joked Darcy Kolodziej, deputy municipal clerk, who will be playing in the game.

The legendary Glen Kalina from WJRZ will call the game, and Fantasy Island’s Mayor Gator will throw out the first pitch, while also handing out passes for a free ride on the park’s Ferris wheel.

Game-watchers are encouraged to cheer on their favorite team or players by bringing posters and other festive gear.

The first town to officially incorporate on LBI, Beach Haven was once known for hosting games of donkey ball. “But (the town) is not going that far,” said Kolodziej, who will also be participating in a Chicken or the Egg wing-eating contest during the third-inning stretch.

The Chicken or the Egg restaurant, famous for its wings and sauces, will be providing naked, mild wings for the competition, which will also include START founder Joe Mangino as well as a special mystery guest.

“I will not be naked and mild. I’ll be naked and wild. People will be cringing,” Kolodziej said, laughing.

Nonprofit group Beach Haven Future will be selling classic ballpark food, including peanuts, Crackerjacks, hot dogs and popcorn. Proceeds will benefit the group.

Another anniversary event at Walsh Field, a Pig Roast and free Bay Bash Concert, featuring local band Garage Kept, will take place on June 20, from 4 to 8 p.m. Food and beer provided by Buckalew’s Restaurant and Murphy’s Market will be available for purchase. Proceeds will benefit BHF.

A Paddle and Pour Challenge at the Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club, to benefit the Mordecai Land Trust, will take place on Aug. 29 at noon. Light refreshments and kids activities will be available.

A free concert with Franklin Turnpike will be held later in the day at the field, from 5 to 8 p.m. Food and beer provided by Buckalew’s and Murphy’s will be available. Proceeds will benefit BHF.

Beach Haven’s Seafood Festival, sponsored by Buckalew’s, will take place at Frank Panzone Jr. Memorial Park, located behind Bay Village on Taylor Avenue, on Sept. 19, from 5 to 9 p.m. A free concert and boat parade will be held at 7 p.m. Proceeds will benefit BHF.

The borough's anniversary events will culminate with a rededication and gala dinner at Tucker’s Restaurant on Nov. 14. An after-party will be held at Buckalew’s.

Plans for a fall festival in October are still underway.

For more information, contact Kolodziej at 409-492-0111, extension 210.

— Kelley Anne Essinger

This article was published in The Beachcomber.