August 2024
Letter from the Editor
Can we PLEASE slow this summer down? I’d swear that we were just editing our Spring issue, and here it is, August. How does that happen? Our weather has been spectacular, and I want us all to enjoy the summer of 2024 as much as we can.
The Art of Opposites: Expressionist Bette Ridgeway & Impressionist Elena Bond Bringing Exhibition to Ocean Galleries
In nature, opposites enhance inherent beauty. Dawn is only brighter for the depth of night, after all.
In art, opposites also highlight the brilliance that differing styles and methods can reveal
Class Houses: The 2024 Designer House Tour Offers a Peek Inside Stunning Homes
The comforting “thwack” of screen doors slamming has been the siren call of summer for generations, evoking memories of flip-flops, fireflies, dripping popsicles, and hazy, if not lazy, days of summer. And that pure summer joy was one of the inspirations for a stunning shore home where Southern charm meets casual elegance in the most family-friendly way.
Events at a Glance
The Yacht Club of Stone Harbor’s Festival of Lights boat parade is a twinkling tradition in Stone Harbor. The boats will travel along the basins on Stone Harbor’s waterways. The after-party is open to YCSH members and up to four guests per member, and to Boat & Dock participants and up to four guests per dock or boat owner.
A Healthy Marriage: Cape Regional Joins Forces with Cooper University Health Care
Cape May County has just received a medical-advancement injection: Cooper has come here.
As of July 1, Cape Regional Health System joined Cooper University Health Care, enlarging the footprint of high-level medical services here. The facility in Cape May Court House is now called Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional.
Chocolate Cream: Comeback Donut of the Year
Donuts – or doughnuts, depending on your preference – have existed in one form or another in North America since the late 1600s. The popularity expanded exponentially when soldiers returned home from the first World War in 1918 after being served the fried dough delicacies by locals while serving in France.
Weekly Events
Join the Stone Harbor community every Sunday for the Farmers Market. Come support local businesses selling fresh produce, seafood, and more.
The Lions Care: Avalon Club’s Charity Golf Tourney Raises $66,000, Honors the Late Chuck Covington
The Avalon Lions Club raised $66,000 to be donated to 18 Cape May County charities through its 15th annual charity golf tournament held June 24 at the Union League National Golf Club in Middle Township.
It Was a Circus, I Tell Ya! Memories of When Touring Companies Brought the Big Top to Town
Obviously, times have changed from Hemingway’s days. But there was a time when the circus coming to town was met with much excitement and great anticipation. It managed to bring smiles to lots of faces.
Seven Mile Beach Patrols Find Early Success
Avalon embraces the changing of its guards, while Stone Harbor sports the savvy of its old guard.
They are two significant themes for the Seven Mile Beach Patrols peeking out of the limited early-season schedule.
Smilestones
Avalon’s Marty Pagliughi began as Cape May County’s Office of Emergency Management Coordinator in 2012. He officially retired on June 30, ending a career in which the longtime mayor was often recognized as being at the forefront of emergency management procedures and protection.
Poetry by 14-Year-Old Julia Broder
I race to the garage,
Reaching up,
Trying to keep a grip on my dad’s big hand.
Bursting with excitement I spot my treasure behind the bicycles, …
Must Haves: Keeping Cool
As the August heat blazes on, it’s essential to stay cool and comfortable. From breezy summer dresses to water-friendly visors, there are plenty of items designed to beat the heat and keep you feeling refreshed. Whether you are lounging on the beach or exploring outdoor activities, these cooling essentials will help you make the most of the remaining days of summer.
Times Talk
A postmaster taking leave to participate in a special assignment with the United States Postal Service might go unnoticed in a major metropolitan post office. That’s not the case, however, in the post offices of Seven Mile Beach.
Rootin’ for the Birds: Restoring Marshes at the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary
The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is a truly a remarkable place with a distinguished history. You may remember when it hosted one of the largest rookeries for colonial waterbirds in the United States, or you have heard the stories. Unfortunately, development, invasive plants, and predators ultimately drove the nesting wading birds to offshore islands, where they still can be found.
Battle of the Paddles: Platform Tennis Stars Open the Pro Flight Tour Aug. 16-17 in Stone Harbor
It’s never been easier to see top athletes in a particular sport.
Just head to the heart of Stone Harbor.
The public has free admission to watch eight of the nation’s top-ranked platform tennis (paddle) players at the 97th Street courts Aug. 16 (6pm) and 17 (roughly 10 am).
A Lifetime, A Legacy: Kim Rea Park
Kim Rea Park was a force for fun and more in Stone Harbor. In a wider world plagued with division, Ms. Park had a knack for bringing people in town together face-to-face for events and on her social media platform Stone Harbor Peeps Only.
Seven Mile Watering Bowls: A Fun Search for My Favorite Watering Bowls
Ever since my review of the new Sea Isle Dog Park in the June issue of the Sea Isle Times, I’ve been getting a lot of stick. Not the kind I fetched in my pup days, but about why I haven’t written for man’s best friend here on Seven Mile Beach. Well, my four-legged friends, beg no longer because this old dog (I’ll be 12 in October) has put together a Yappy Hour tour. Yes, this is my version of the best watering holes … oops, I meant watering bowls, on the island.
Business Buzz
The summer may be winding down, but there are still plenty of new businesses popping up along Seven Mile Beach to check out. Keep reading to learn about the island’s newest must-visits and be sure to treat yourself to a delicious meal from one of the new shops.
Seven Mile Style: A Night Out on the Town (Women’s)
As the warm summer sun dips below the horizon, the town comes alive with the promise of an unforgettable night out. Whether you’re hitting an outdoor bar, enjoying a romantic dinner on the beach, or shopping for those perfect summer pieces, Louella has an ensemble you will fall in love with. The tiered midi dress in the trendiest colors of 2024 – orange, pink, and purple – is simply show-stopping.