Tuesday, August 2, was an eventful day. That morning, I had the pleasure of joining other City officials at the Welcome Center to congratulate Matthew Baldini, of Boy Scout Troop 76, who just completed his Eagle Scout Project. In an effort to help people with disabilities, Matt decided to create a pamphlet that spotlights businesses and public facilities with ADA ramps, elevators and other amenities for those who need physical assistance. We are very proud of Matt and all of our local scouts for the good work they perform in our community. Additionally, I commend the Baldini family for their rich history in scouting – including Matt’s older brother Paul, Jr., and his Dad, Paul Sr., who are both Eagle Scouts themselves. Since only 4% of all Boy Scouts become Eagle Scouts – and Sea Isle City has numerous men who have achieved that distinction – our community has many reasons to be proud.
Also on Tuesday, I had a very productive meeting with County Engineer Dale Foster to discuss the Sea Isle Boulevard causeway and several other County-related topics that affect our town. Currently, we expect Phase 2 of the causeway construction project to begin this autumn, and we will give you further updates on Phase 2 as the project’s launch date approaches. No doubt, everyone is looking forward to seeing this important construction effort come to fruition. In the meantime, please know that we appreciate your patience as this project continues – and don’t forget that the causeway’s speed limit of 40 mph is designed to keep everyone safe as they travel along Sea Isle Boulevard.
On Tuesday night, the Sea Isle City Police Department hosted their annual National Night Out celebration at Excursion Park, which was very well attended. It was great to see so many families enjoying an evening of terrific entertainment – and showing their support for our Police officers, who are there 24-hours a day to serve and protect us. My congratulations go to Chief Tom D’Intino, Captain Tom McQuillen, Captain Tony Garreffi and all of our men and women in blue for a job well done on Tuesday night – and each night of the year.
Looking ahead, this Saturday is the Sea Isle City Beach Patrol’s annual Captain Bill Gallagher 10-Mile Island Run. If you are not able to compete in this year’s Island Run, I urge you to attend as a spectator simply to watch nearly 1000 athletes race along our promenade and beaches – it really is something to see!
This week, I have several “Shout-Outs” to share…
This first goes to Edward Monaghan, Sr., a proud veteran and retired Philadelphia policeman, who truly loves Sea Isle City. Recently, during a celebration with Ed’s family and friends, I had the pleasure of declaring “Ed Monaghan Day” in honor of his 88th birthday. Ed decided that he wanted to spend his birthday in Sea Isle City so he could re-live the memories of his High School Senior Week vacation, which he enjoyed here in 1947. The Monaghan family obviously has a wonderful history in our town, and my best wishes go to Ed, his wife Peg, their six children and their eleven grandchildren.
My next Shout Out goes to three local young men who are part of the “Overseas Elite” basketball team, which won the first place prize of $2-million in a huge tournament in New York on Tuesday. The tournament featured teams comprised of former NBA players and other skilled athletes from across the nation – and three of “Sea Isle’s Own” were part of the winning team. The general manager of Overseas Elite is Andrew Morrison, a Sea Isle native who works as an attorney and sports agent. The team’s coach is Colin Curtain, a familiar face who spent summers growing up here. And, one of the Overseas Elite players is Anthony Raffa, a Wildwood Catholic graduate who had a storied college basketball career at Coastal Carolina before becoming a professional player abroad. Way to go Andrew, Colin and Anthony! Sea Isle City is very proud of you.
Last but not least, here’s a Shout Out to Sea Isle City’s Police Officers and Lifeguards for always keeping us safe. We appreciate all of your hard work and devotion!
Smile…You’re in Sea Isle!
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
