Even though we have had more than our share of rainy days this year, the summer season is off to a great start here in Sea Isle City. As the busy Memorial Day Weekend drew to a close, it was wonderful to see hundreds of people gathered at Veterans Park for our annual Memorial Day Ceremony – during which, I am happy to say, Mother Nature kindly granted us cloudy (not rainy) skies. I am grateful to everyone who took the time to honor our nation’s fallen warriors on Memorial Day, including the event’s participants: U.S. Senatorial Candidate Bob Hugin, Ambassador Theresa Tull, Commander Charles Haines and the Color Guard from VFW Post 1963, Cape May County Clerk Rita Marie Fulginiti, Deacon Joe Murphy, Pastor Melissa Doyle-Waid, WWII Veteran Bill Johnson, Kathy Wilson, the members of City Council and, of course, all of the veterans who were in attendance, without whom we would not have all the freedoms we enjoy today. Special thanks also go to Bugle Player Jake Bryan and the other members of Boy Scout Troop 76, who led a procession to the JFK Boulevard Beach, where several members of the Sea Isle City Beach Patrol rowed flowers out to sea during our annual Naval Tribute. Thank you all!
I would also like to thank everyone who supported this year’s Gerard A. Desiderio Heart Walk on Saturday, which benefitted The Deborah Heart and Lung Center. In addition to raising money for a worthy organization like Deborah, my family was also very grateful for all of the people who approached us throughout the day to say kind words about my brother, Gerard, who passed away in 2003. In short, the Desiderio family is very thankful for everyone who opened their wallets – and their hearts – during Saturday’s Heart Walk.
Now that Memorial Day has come and gone, Sea Isle City’s Summer Calendar of Events is beginning to unfold – which means there is a lot to look forward to in the weeks and months ahead, including 5K Runs, festivals, Beachcomber Tours, and plenty of free entertainment at the Excursion Park Band Shell. This weekend, make time to attend the Sea Isle City Historical Museum’s free “Here Comes Summer” Open House on Saturday, which will feature food, games and other activities that families are certain to enjoy. And, don’t forget that this is Restaurant Week in Sea Isle City, which means you can find “delicious deals” at participating restaurants throughout town.
Looking further ahead, the City’s Division of Tourism will host Sea Isle’s annual Skimmer Festival Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 16 and 17. For many folks, Skimmer Festival is the official start of the summer – and not just because it takes place close to the Summer Solstice. On Saturday of Skimmer Weekend, festival-goers will enjoy an abundance of craft and merchandise vendors along the Promenade, a Food Court, live music, and free amusement rides at Excursion Park. Then, on Sunday (Fathers Day), don’t miss the free Historical Trolley Tours as well as the annual Skimmer Antique Auto Show, which will spotlight an array of classic vehicles. For more details about Skimmer Festival Weekend, see the special section in this E-Newsletter or go to www.VISITSICNJ.com.
It’s that time of year again when Diamondback Terrapin Turtles emerge from the marshes and cross our busy roads to lay their eggs in the dunes and elsewhere around town. Because the Terrapin is such an important part of our local eco-system – and because only a small percentage of Terrapin eggs hatch and grow to adulthood – I ask all motorists to please drive cautiously and be on the look-out for terrapins in the streets. Also, if you choose to help a Terrapin cross the road, remember to carry her in the direction she was traveling, and please make sure you don’t put yourself in harm’s way while doing so! To learn more about Diamondback Terrapin Turtles and different ways you can help them survive, see the “Terrapin Turtle” section below, which contains important information provided by Steve and Sue Ahern from Sea Isle Terrapin Rescue.
Smile…You’re in Sea Isle!
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
