Congratulations go to our newest Eagle Scout, Donald Teefy III. Don is a member of Boy Scout Troop 76 – an organization that has produced many Eagle Scouts over the years – and he also belongs to a family that has a fine history with our town, including his parents who are Sea Isle City natives. Congratulations, Don!
On December 8, it was my honor and privilege to attend the Sea Isle City Taxpayer Association’s annual Town Hall Meeting inside the Community Lodge. Many of SICTA’s members were present during that gathering, and it was a pleasure to answer their questions and update them on projects and other efforts happening in Sea Isle City. My thanks go to President Mary Tumolo and all of our friends at SICTA for the warm welcome and hospitality I was afforded on that day.
As is the case each December, the people of Sea Isle City are busy planning and attending holiday events – and this year is certainly no exception. For example, on December 13, the members of AARP Chapter 710 hosted their annual Holiday Luncheon, which was very well attended.
During the luncheon, Membership Chairperson Joyce Molter was honored as Chapter 710’s 2018 Volunteer of the Year, and from all reports it’s an honor that Joyce certainly deserves. It is always a delight to spend time with our local AARP members, who do a wonderful job brightening the lives of so many people in our City and in surrounding communities. Thank you Chapter 710 for all you do.
On December 16, several members of Sea Isle’s Volunteer Ambulance Corps joined forces with the Middle Township Rescue Squad for their annual Holiday Hospital Run to Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Court House, during which I assisted Santa Claus by portraying him in full costume. During our visit, each of the hospital’s patients and employees received gifts and plenty of holiday cheer. It goes without saying that it was my pleasure to be part of such a worthwhile effort that meant so much to so many.
Another seasonal event I am always proud to be part of is our annual Mayor’s Holiday Toy and Food Drive, which will culminate this year on December 21, when my “elves” and I will personally deliver gifts and nonperishable food items to local families in need. My thanks go to all of the individuals, families, businesses and organizations that contributed to this year’s drive, and I hope each of you realize how your donations will positively impact others. Thank you all!
After several years of construction, the Sea Isle Boulevard Elevation Project is rapidly approaching completion. Earlier estimates indicated that both sides of our newly elevated causeway would be open by the end of this month. However, due to the recent wet weather and contractual holiday time-off for the men and women who are working diligently to complete this project, we now expect the road’s final configuration to be open to traffic on or about January 7, 2019, which is just a few short weeks away.
As I have said before, I am very grateful for everyone’s patience while this important County project has been underway. It should give all of us peace of mind to know that our causeway will be less likely to flood – and thus less likely to be closed – during major storms, allowing emergency vehicles to travel on and off of our island whenever serious weather strikes.
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2019!
Smile … You’re in Sea Isle!
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
