It’s easy for people to appreciate life at the Jersey Shore during the summer months because playing in the sunshine and frolicking in the surf are popular activities that appeal to all age groups. Many folks also look forward to the slower pace of the spring and fall seasons, which feature great sunsets and milder temperatures.
However, when it comes to the winter months, people often shun the idea of being at the shore. In fact, one of the most common questions we tend to hear is, “What do you do during the winter in Sea Isle City?”
As it turns out, the answer to that question is a simple one: “Plenty!” One reason Sea Isle is a wonderful year-round community is because we have so many lively civic organizations, each of which brings something unique to the proverbial table.
Take a look at our longest-standing non-profit group, the Sea Isle City Women’s Civic Club. Formed over 100 years ago, the Women’s Civic Club has made a positive impact on our community in a variety of ways. For example, prior to the formation of the Sea Isle City Beach Patrol, the Women’s’ Civic Club took it upon themselves to distribute first aid supplies to beachgoers – and they also hosted Sea Isle’s first Baby Parade in 1916.
Today, they meet each week to play bridge and other games inside the Community Lodge and they host an annual Card Party that raises money for several charities. If you enjoy playing table-top games and you’d like to spend time with a group of good-hearted ladies (and gentlemen, too), keep in mind that the Women’s Civic Club is always eager to welcome new members.
Another active group that we are very proud of here in Sea Isle City is VFW Post 1963, which is located at the foot of the Sea Isle Bridge. In addition to being home to many veterans who served our nation with honor, Post 1963 also has a wonderful Auxiliary organization that is open to parents, spouses, siblings and children of veterans with foreign military service.
Throughout each year, the members of Post 1963 honor us with their presence during our annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, support charitable causes, and host a wonderful “Brunch with Santa” for local children at Christmastime. Simply put, I can’t imagine life in Sea Isle City without our friends at VFW Post 1963.
I would also like to mention AARP Chapter 710, which is one of the most active and friendly AARP chapters in South Jersey – not to mention one of the largest, with over 170 enthusiastic members. For a so-called group of “retired persons,” the ladies and gentlemen of Chapter 710 are busier than many working people I know.