As 2019 draws to a close, we here in Sea Isle City can be grateful for a very successful year that was highlighted by a variety of wonderful events. We hosted terrific festivals, very well-attended concerts, and many other activities that delighted thousands and thousands of people.
Also, the weather was outstanding this summer, and – as usual – we met the best people and re-connected with many old friends throughout the year. However, 2019 will stand out for another notable reason that only comes along once in a shore town’s existence: the 100th Anniversary of our Beach Patrol.
As you’ll recall, in July a series of events were held to commemorate the Sea Isle City Beach Patrol’s 100 Years of Excellence, including several ceremonies, free tours of our Beach Patrol Headquarters, a historical presentation that highlighted the SICBP’s illustrious past, and a Centennial Parade along the Promenade, which featured an array of lifeguard boats from many neighboring communities.
The parade also included a special display that was made by SICBP Alumni Howard Wright and his family that consisted of a boat’s oar hanging above wooden panels, which were signed by past and present members of our Beach Patrol.
Then, on December 13, it was my pleasure to be present when the oar and signature panels were officially donated to the Sea Isle City Historical Museum, where it will be on display for all to enjoy.
My thanks go to the Wright Family, for constructing the display, and the members of Sea Isle City Historical Society, for adding this newest artifact to their vast collection of historical memorabilia. My thanks also go to all of our lifeguards – past and present – and to the members of our 100th Anniversary Planning Committee for organizing all of the events and activities that made the SICBP’s Centennial so very special.
Anyone who lives in Sea Isle City knows how active our local civic organizations are – including AARP Chapter 710 and VFW Post 1963. Last week, both our AARP and the VFW hosted events that I was very pleased to attend. The first was AARP’s annual Holiday Luncheon, where Sis Borden was honored as Chapter 710’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year – an award she greatly deserves.
Next, it was heartwarming to attend the VFW’s annual Holiday Luncheon for residents of the Vineland Veterans Home, which was highlighted by lively music, great food and the welcoming arms of our local veterans and Post 1963’s Auxiliary. Just a few days later, Post 1963 then hosted their annual Brunch with Santa for local children, which was also wonderful.
Words cannot fully express how much I value living in a community with so many giving and caring people!
And speaking of “giving and caring people,” I would like to thank everyone who contributed to our 2019 Mayor’s Holiday Toy and Food Drive, which was an outstanding success!
Each year, we receive donations – big and small – each of which helps brighten the holidays of families in need. My thanks go to everyone who gave toys, non-perishable food items, gift cards and monetary donations to this year’s drive, including (but not limited to) CASA Payroll Services, VFW Post 1963, 1st Bank of Sea Isle City, AARP Chapter 710, the Sea Isle City Garden Club, the Commodore Club, the Sea Isle City Italian-American Club, and KIX-McNutleys.
Additional thanks go to Sea Isle Realty and Bella Roots Salon for adopting families, and to the local business owners around town who generously allowed us to place a drop-box in their establishments, including 1st Bank of Sea Isle City, Rick’s Breakfast House & Donuts, and Mrs. Brizzle’s Buns & Deli.
Thank you all!
This week’s “Shout Out” goes to the members of Sea Isle City’s Historical Society and Museum. If you haven’t walked through our town’s magnificent History Museum lately, I hope you can do so soon, because it is an absolute treasure trove of artifacts, photographs and vintage objects that tell the wonderful story of Sea Isle City’s past. Thank you, Sea Isle City Historical Society!
Wishing everyone Happy Holidays, a Merry Christmas, and a very Happy and Healthy New Year. The best is yet to come in 2020!
Smile … You’re in Sea Isle!
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
