An adult eagle and a juvenile were both spotted along Avalon Boulevard earlier this week.  Eagles often perch atop trees or utility poles to search for prey moving across the marsh.  The adult on the left finished feeding (at the top of the pole!) shortly before this photo was taken.

THE AVALON BOULEVARD BRIDGE will be closed to all traffic from 7pm Monday, February 24^th until 5am Tuesday morning.  Work has continued daily on the new bridge surface, with an alternating traffic pattern in place most of the time.  (Note: an earlier announcement released to local media incorrectly stated the bridge would close to all traffic on February 20^th; the bridge will remain open on that date.)

STONE HARBOR’S NEW FIRE TRUCK has been delivered.  The Pierce Impel pumper will carry six firefighters and the latest firefighting gear.

LAST WEEKEND’S POLAR BEAR PLUNGE drew thousands to Sea Isle City for a weekend of activities.  The annual Mike’s Seafood Polar Bear Run-Walk for Autism had a record breaking number of participants this year, including New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy who participated to lend his support for the event.  The Run-Walk is organized by Mike and Jeannie Monichetti and is now in its twelfth year.  Last year the Monichetti family raised over $140,000 for autism.

AVALON MANOR’S NEW FISHING PIER will be ready soon, as reported at a recent Middle Township Committee meeting.  The pier is currently under construction after receiving approval in 2019.  The new pier replaces an older one that was closed in 2016 due to deterioration.  The site used to host the (Old) Avalon Boulevard Bridge which crossed into Avalon via 21^st Street.  When the new bridge was built it was realigned to enter Avalon via 30^th Street, and the old bridge was removed.

TROPHY STRIPERS OFF LIMITS:  The New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council updated its striper regulations to allow anglers to keep one fish between 28 inches and 38 inches in length.  A limited number of “bonus permits” would allow for the retention of one additional fish between 24 inches and 28 inches, but the state rejected retention of “trophy” sized fish.  Fishing regulations are adjusted periodically to ensure the survival of various species.  New Jersey’s new regulations now go to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Council for approval.

THE CLOCK IS TICKING!  Perhaps you’ve noticed that we’re gaining a minute or two of daylight each day, with sunrise occurring earlier and sunset occurring later.  Even better, we’re only 14 weeks from Memorial Day Weekend!  That means it’s time to plan for Summer 2020.  Whether you’re planning to vacation for a week, or going to buy your own shore home, it’s time to get started.  Call or email me today!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Teatime at the Avalon History Center at 215-39^th Street, enjoy tea and sharing memories of Avalon, 11AM, Thursday, February 20
• Apple Computers, iPads & Phones Drop In Tech Workshop, Avalon Free Public Library, 5-6:30PM, Thursday, February 20
• Aerobics with Lindsay Bechtler, Avalon Free Public Library, 6:30-7:30PM, Thursday, February 20
• Anniversary Film, featured is Field of Dreams with Kevin Costner, Avalon Free Public Library, 1-3PM, Friday, February 21
• Windows Computer & Android Smartphone Drop In Tech Workshop, bring your device for assistance, Avalon Free Public Library, 5:30-7PM, Monday, February, 24
• Avalon’s Shop-A-Holics Weekend at the Princeton & the Whitebrier, local retail stores & boutiques offering designer clothing, accessories, food, drinks & great deals, Thursday & Friday, March 12 &13 from 4-9PM & Saturday, March 14 from 10AM-6PM
• Stone Harbor Pre-Shiver Party, 6-9PM at the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, Friday, March 20
• Stone Harbor Shiver Weekend with proceeds benefitting Family Promise of Cape May County, Kegs & Eggs Breakfast at Fred’s Tavern at 9:30AM, parade to the beach with costumed participants at 11:45AM & at 1PM  the dash to the ocean for the Plunge, Saturday, March 21
• Easter EggStravaganZoo, Easter Egg Hunt, a visit from the Easter Bunny and lots of Easter activities and fun, Cape May County Zoo, 10AM-2PM, Saturday, April 4
• Turtle Fest at The Wetlands Institute, pancake breakfast, Easter egg hunt, create arts & crafts, search for turtle hatchlings, more, visit https://wetlandsinstitute.org/events/turtle-fest/.com  for details, 9AM-3PM, Saturday, April 11
• Earth Day Celebration, 5K run begins at 7:30AM, Fun Run begins at 8:30AM & 5K Run begins at 9AM, along with entertainment, crafters, games & vendors, Cape May County Park & Zoo, 8:30AM-3PM, Saturday, April 18
• Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s Job Fair, 9AM-3PM, Saturday, April 18
• Avalon’s Spring Dune Grass Planting, volunteers report to Avalon Community Hall @30^th & Avalon Avenue at 8:30AM, a light lunch will be served after the planting, call Chuck McDonnell at 609-967-3066 or Sue Keen at 609-967-5924 to sign up, Saturday, April 18 (rain date is Sunday, April 19)

New Listings:

17 Seabreeze Lane, Avalon Manor, $639,500, ACTIVE MLS#: 200692

10105 Second Avenue, Unit B, Stone Harbor, $650,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200637

300 79th Street, Unit 2, Avalon, $749,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200690

2488 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $2,095,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200698

2488 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $2,095,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200697

2118 First Avenue, Avalon, $2,150,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200639

8 W. 14th, Avalon, $2,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200657

141 95th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200597

149 10th Street, Avalon, $2,849,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200648

4656 Dune Drive, Avalon, $3,349,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200603

4603 Fifth Avenue, Avalon, $3,775,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200654

Properties Under Contract:

8201 Third Avenue, #22, Stone Harbor, $599,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200449

323 80th Street, #15, Stone Harbor, $780,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200016

2011 Dune Drive, Avalon, $1,099,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200167

230 82nd Street, Stone Harbor, $1,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190844

7888 Dune Drive, Avalon, $1,699,999, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 185665

261 58th Street, Avalon, $1,895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189716

251 45th Street, Avalon, $2,025,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190637

Properties Sold:

425 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,457,500, SOLD MLS#: 185875

198 73rd Street, Avalon, $2,550,000, SOLD MLS#: 187951

197 77th Street, Avalon, $3,675,000, SOLD MLS#: 189718

Three seagulls oversee the beach, standing atop a sandbar at the edge of the surf.

THOUSANDS OF VISITORS are expected to descend upon Sea Isle City for the annual Polar Bear Plunge.  With the ocean temperature currently at 43 degrees, it’ll be a chilly dip in the water at noon on Saturday.  But even for those not plunging, there are activities throughout the town, including Sunday’s Walk-Run for Autism organized by Mike’s Seafood.  Based on past experience, local businesses are expecting crowds rivaling those of a summer weekend.  Stone Harbor’s Shiver Weekend takes place the weekend of March 20^th.

THE ULTIMATE SUMMER JOB!  Spend your day on Avalon’s beach protecting swimmers or checking beach tags!  The Avalon Beach Patrol announced that it will be hiring lifeguards and beach tag inspectors again for the 2020 season.  Interested applicants can check out the info here:  https://avalonboro.net/avalon-seeking-applications-for-beach-patrol-beach-tag-checkers/

A BIT OF SOUTH JERSEY’S RAILROAD HISTORY was demolished this past week, as the former Wildwood Junction Station building was torn down.  Well hidden in the trees just west of Route 9, the station had been out of service for several decades, and had fallen into disrepair.  Despite its out-of-sight location, the station had become an attractive nuisance, and the building was condemned.  At one time two railroads carried passengers to the South Jersey Shore, running multiple trains daily from Philadelphia and Camden to every barrier island from Atlantic City southward.  The last regular passenger rail service in Cape May County ceased operation in 1981.

• Apple Computer, iPads & iPhones Drop in Tech Workshop, bring your device for assistance, Avalon Free Public Library, 5:30-7PM, Thursday, February 13
• Genealogy/Ancestry with Casey Zahm, find your lost ancestors, register at 609-967-7155 at Avalon Free Public Library, 1-3PM, Friday, February 14
• Beach Party at the Avalon Free Public Library, indoor beach party with reggae music, limbo pole, family fun, 10-11AM, Saturday, February 15
• Author Lecture with Maggie FitzRoy discussing her novel, ‘Beacon Beach’ set in Cape May in 1886, book signing to follow, Avalon Free Public Library, 1-2PM, Saturday, February 15
• Creative Writing with Melissa Palmer, feedback on memories, short stories, articles & books, Avalon Free Public Library, registration required at 609-967-7155, 10AM-Noon,  Saturday, February 15
• Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening at the new Gordman’s Store at 2087 Route 9, South in Seaville (formerly Peebles), browse the new store & merchandise, 9AM, Tuesday, February 18
• iCloud Class, overview& basics of cloud computing, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11AM, Tuesday, February 18
• Smart Home Technology Workshop, devices to turn your home into a smart home, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11AM, Wednesday, February 19
• Teatime at the Avalon History Center at 215-39^th Street, enjoy tea and sharing memories of Avalon, 11AM, Thursday, February 20
• Apple Computers, iPads & Phones Drop In Tech Workshop, Avalon Free Public Library, 5-6:30PM, Thursday, February 20
• Aerobics with Lindsay Bechtler, Avalon Free Public Library, 6:30-7:30PM, Thursday, February 20
• Anniversary Film, featured is Field of Dreams with Kevin Costner, Avalon Free Public Library, 1-3PM, Friday, February 21
• Windows Computer & Android Smartphone Drop In Tech Workshop, bring your device for assistance, Avalon Free Public Library, 5:30-7PM, Monday, February, 24
• Avalon’s Shop-A-Holics Weekend at the Princeton & the Whitebrier, local retail stores & boutiques offering designer clothing, accessories, food, drinks & great deals, Thursday & Friday, March 12 &13 from 4-9PM & Saturday, March 14 from 10AM-6PM
• Stone Harbor Pre-Shiver Party, 6-9PM at the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, Friday, March 20
• Stone Harbor Shiver Weekend with proceeds benefitting Family Promise of Cape May County, Kegs & Eggs Breakfast at Fred’s Tavern at 9:30AM, parade to the beach with costumed participants at 11:45AM & at 1PM  the dash to the ocean for the Plunge, Saturday, March 21

Warm weather at the beginning of the week made fishing and beach walks quite pleasant!

AVALON’S FLOOD MITIGATION EFFORTS have improved its standing from Class 5 to Class 3 in the FEMA Community Rating System.  The improved rating comes about due to Avalon’s ongoing effort to reduce flood insurance losses, and will save property owners an estimated $1.6 million in 2020 premiums.  Avalon and Sea Isle City are the only two municipalities in New Jersey to achieve a Class 3 rating, and among only 13 nationwide.  For more on Avalon’s flood mitigation savings, see this Atlantic City Press article:   https://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/avalon-residents-to-save-million-on-flood-insurance-in/article_fd748d60-6bbc-52a3-9ad5-441c5a62850a.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=user-share&fbclid=IwAR0hJWmAY6TzNIINnyf-JphWlQlNwncrpotapgV4frd8HSdh7qYBGc8s0MI

NEW JERSEY BOATERS need a valid boating safety certificate in order to legally operate a vessel in NJ waters.  Numerous certification classes are available in the coming months, in a variety of locations along the coast.  Some are 8-hour classes held in a single day, while others are split into shorter sessions over multiple days.  To find a class that suits your location and schedule, use the US Coast Guard Auxiliary class finder here: http://cgaux.org/boatinged/class_finder/

EAGLES ARE HERE AGAIN!  Not the Philadelphia Eagles, but rather the kind that live in the wild and often take up residence in Cape May County.  Increased sightings of the magnificent birds have been reported lately.  Last year many utilized empty osprey nests during the winter months, and were seen perched atop tall utility poles near the wetlands while spotting prey.

“THE LUDLAM,” a 74-room hotel redevelopment project in the center of Sea Isle City, received zoning board approval Monday night.  After significant discussion, multiple variances were granted for the project, which will include hotel suites, a restaurant, banquet room, and outdoor bar at its location at the corner of JFK Boulevard and Landis Avenue.  LaCosta Lounge, which currently occupies the site, will likely be demolished in the fall to make way for the new project.

HAVE YOU PLANNED YOUR 2020 VACATION YET?  It’s time—Memorial Day is less than four months away!  Browse my rental guide, then email or call me to get started!
https://www.flipsnack.com/franzeographics/long-and-foster-avalon-stone-harbor-rental-brochure-fd1kyp3nr.html

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Creative Writing with Melissa Palmer, tips & feedback on poetry, memoirs, short stories, articles & books, Avalon Free Public Library, 4-6PM, Thursday, February 6
• Lunch & Learn Program at the Wetlands Institute titled, ‘Welcome Back Bluebirds,’ bring your lunch and the Wetlands will provide coffee & dessert, $3 for members, $5 for non-members, 11:45AM-1PM, Friday, February 7
• Wine & Chocolate Tasting at Hawk Haven Winery at 600 S. Railroad Avenue in Rio Grande, live music by Greg Jones between 2 & 5PM, 11AM-6PM, Saturday, February 8
• Comedy Uncorked, Willow Creek Winery, 6-10PM, Saturday, February 8
• Windows Computers & Android Smartphones Drop In Tech Workshop with Sean Farrell for questions regarding your phone, computer, software or an app, Avalon Free Public Library, 3-4:30PM, Monday, February 10
• Art Workshop, ‘Wine Glass Painting’ with Nancy McMonagle, registration required at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 3:30-5:30PM, Monday, February 10
• Move & Groove with Cathy Cashmere, low impact dance fitness class, registration required at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7PM, Tuesday, February 11
• Award Season Film, ‘Judy’ starring Renee Zellweger as Judy Garland, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-8PM, Tuesday, February 11
• Coffee with Cops Event at Burke Motor Group, breakfast catered by George’s Place in Cape May Court House, RSVP at francey.burke@burkemotorsgroup.com,  coffee & conversation with Middle Township Police Department members, 9-11AM, Wednesday, February 12
• Baking with Chef Linda, demonstration on baking a sweet treat, registration required at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11:30AM, Wednesday, February 12
• Genealogy/Ancestry with Casey Zahm, find your lost ancestors, register at 609-967-7155 at Avalon Free Public Library, 1-3PM, Friday, February 14
• Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening at the new Gordman’s Store at 2087 Route 9, South in Seaville (formerly Peebles), browse the new store & merchandise, 9AM, Tuesday, February 18
• Avalon’s Shop-A-Holics Weekend at the Princeton & the Whitebrier, local retail stores & boutiques offering designer clothing, accessories, food, drinks & great deals, Thursday & Friday, March 12 &13 from 4-9PM & Saturday, March 14 from 10AM-6PM
• Stone Harbor Pre-Shiver Party, 6-9PM at the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, Friday, March 20
• Stone Harbor Shiver Weekend with proceeds benefitting Family Promise of Cape May County, Kegs & Eggs Breakfast at Fred’s Tavern at 9:30AM, parade to the beach with costumed participants at 11:45AM & at 1PM  the dash to the ocean for the Plunge, Saturday, March 21

New Listings:

151 95th Street, #5, Stone Harbor, $539,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200481

8201 3rd Avenue, #22, Stone Harbor, $599,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200449

1127 Stone Harbor Boulevard, B-32, Stone Harbor Manor, $895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200418

280 82nd Street, Stone Harbor, $1,775,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200450

165 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,399,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200451

284 7th Street, Avalon, $2,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200401

10315 Sunrise Drive, Stone Harbor, $3,399,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200426

75 W. 37th Street, Avalon, $4,699,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200469

Properties Under Contract:

286 16th Street, #6, Avalon, $599,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200284

637 21st Street, Avalon, $665,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 188977

100 96th Street, Unit 304, Stone Harbor, $850,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200259

281 24th Street, West Unit, Avalon, $895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 188837

354 41st Street, Units A & B, Avalon, $1,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200347

3462 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,345,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190120

215 56th Street, Avalon, $2,895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189291

11 E. 11th Street, Avalon, $2,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189074

Properties Sold:

11017 Sunset Drive, Stone Harbor, $1,600,000, SOLD MLS#: 187580

128 19th Street, Avalon, $2,550,000, SOLD MLS#: 189041

35 E. 24th Street, Avalon, $4,500,000, SOLD MLS#: 190137

11501 Paradise Drive, Stone Harbor, $4,850,000, SOLD MLS#: 187551

Friends comparing shells found in a tidal pool on the beach, on a warm afternoon.

MAKE A DOWN PAYMENT, LET SOMEONE ELSE PAY YOUR MORTGAGE!  Last week rates for 30-year fixed-rate jumbo mortgage loans (over $510,401) dropped to 3.5%.  With many Island properties generating 3%, 4%, or even 5% of their value in gross rental income, it’s a tremendous opportunity to purchase a shore property and use rental income to cover a huge portion of your ownership costs.  Want to know more?  Call or email me so we can discuss the specifics of your situation, and I’ll show you properties that will generate great rental income to cover a big chunk of your ownership expenses!

SEALS ON THE BEACH!  Seals have been spotted on local beaches at least twice in the past few days.  While rare, seals do sometimes come ashore while avoiding predators or resting, and most will return to the water.  If you come across a seal or other mammal keep your distance, and don’t try to feed or move it.  If you suspect it is injured or otherwise in distress, any sighting or stranding can be reported to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center by calling 609-266-0538 24 hours a day.

THE OCEAN IS FRIGID—somewhere around 38 degrees in the surf.  Sound like a great time to take a dip?  The upcoming Polar Bear Plunge takes place on Saturday, February 15^th in Sea Isle City, and Stone Harbor hosts the Stone Harbor Shiver on Saturday, March 21^st.  If you’re among the faint-hearted who prefer not to swim in frigid water, there are other fun activities associated with both events.  More details to follow!

STONE HARBOR VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY will take delivery of a new Pierce pumper in the next few weeks.  The new pumper features a short wheelbase for better maneuverability, along with the latest firefighting equipment.

DINING OUT IN NJ?  One of the best new restaurants in New Jersey is Beachwood at the Dunes, according to a NJ Monthly list recently released.  Located at 8600 Landis Avenue in Sea Isle City, Beachwood partners include Chris Glancey, designer Deanna Ebner, and chef Lucas Manteca, who is behind Quahog’s Seafood Shack in Stone Harbor, and The Red Store in Cape May Point.  Featuring everything from classic dishes to adventures on a plate, Manteca says “I just want to make awesome food.”  Beachwood at the Dunes will reopen for the summer season on April 3^rd.  To check out the rest of the 30 best new restaurants across New Jersey, click here:
https://njmonthly.com/articles/eat-drink/best-new-restaurants-nj/?utm_campaign=Dining&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=82365095&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–zhvlda6p9PfpFwxIxghjl-HXhX2QUn2RdC75qkuh3dHl4Q3HJKYDwFiNBZGLIubCQ9EFr6RTY8de8hL7du29szs8biw&_hsmi=82365095

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Wetlands Institute Presentation & Covered Dish Dinner with discussion  about Changing Wetland Landscapes, bring a dish to share, $7 admission for members & $12 for non-members, 6-9PM, Friday, January 31
• Harbor Square Theater Comedy Show, fundraiser to benefit Cape May Tech High School, doors open at 8PM, show at 9PM, tickets in advance are $20 each, at the door $25 each, Friday, January 31
• Apple Computers, iPads & iPhones drop In Tech Workshop, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11:30AM, Saturday, February 1
• Native Americans of the Jersey Cape, Avalon History Center, 1-2PM, Saturday, February 1
• Windows Computers & Android Smartphones Drop In Tech Workshop, questions regarding your computer, phone, software or an app, Avalon Free Public Library, 3-4:30PM, Saturday, February 1
• Super Bowl Bash, food, beverages, auction, raffle & the Big Game, benefitting Friend in Need, The Princeton, 4:30-11PM, Sunday, February 2
• Life Coach Mary Lerario presents tips for sticking with resolutions & understanding when goals need to change or evolve, requires registration at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11AM, Tuesday, February 4
• Move & Groove with Cathy Cashmere, low impact dance fitness class, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7PM, Tuesday, February 4
• Film featuring The Sixth Sense starring Bruce Willis, Avalon Free Public Library, 2-4PM, Wednesday, February 5
• History Book Club, title is Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Account of WWII’s Greatest Rescue Mission, register at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7:30PM, Wednesday, February 5
• Wine & Chocolate Tasting at Hawk Haven Winery, live music by Greg Jones, 11AM-6PM, Saturday, February 8
• Comedy Uncorked, Willow Creek Winery, 6-10PM, Saturday, February 8
• Avalon’s Shop-A-Holics Weekend at the Princeton & the Whitebrier, local retail stores & boutiques offering designer clothing, accessories, food, drinks & great deals, Thursday & Friday, March 12 &13 from 4-9PM & Saturday, March 14 from 10AM-6PM
• Stone Harbor Pre-Shiver Party, 6-9PM at Fred’s Tavern, Friday, March 20
• Stone Harbor Shiver Weekend with proceeds benefitting Family Promise of Cape May County, Kegs & Eggs Breakfast at Fred’s Tavern at 9:30AM, parade to the beach with costumed participants at 11:45AM & at 1PM the dash to the ocean for the Plunge, Saturday, March 21

New Listings:

286 16th Street, Unit 6, Avalon, $599,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200284

16 Seabreeze Lane, Avalon Manor, $775,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200323

354 41st Street, Units A & B, Avalon, $1,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200347

73 W. 14th Street, Avalon, $1,699,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200366

25 E. 11th Street, Avalon, $2,100,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200360

35 E. 11th Street, Avalon, $2,100,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200361

74 E. 13th Street, Avalon, $3,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200349

17 84th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200303

Properties Under Contract:

530 21st Street, Avalon, $699,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190803

1678 First Avenue, Avalon, $859,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189723

754 Sunrise Drive, Avalon, $864,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190530

114 110th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189727

Properties Sold:

C 11 Weber Court, Stone Harbor, $670,000, SOLD MLS#: 190718

311 80th Street, Avalon, $700,000, SOLD MLS#: 200204

275 100 Street, Stone Harbor, $1,275,000, SOLD MLS#: 188964

295 55th Street, Avalon, $1,800,000, SOLD MLS#: 185590

159 26th Street, Avalon, $2,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 188315

119 92nd Street, Stone Harbor, $2,900,000, SOLD MLS#: 187173

A layer of ice formed along Avalon Boulevard earlier this week.  Sea Isle City is in the background.

THE FIRST ICE OF THE SEASON formed in shallow areas of the back bay early this week.  As high tides receded, cold air temperatures during the overnight hours froze bay water at the edges of shallow creeks and ponds.  Deeper areas of the bay have not seen any ice formation, as water temperatures are still in the upper 30s.  Slightly warmer air temperatures are expected by the weekend, and into next week.

MARKET STATS:  Twenty seven properties were sold during the month of December, 2019, up 8% over December a year ago.  Demand for properties remains strong but sales have been held back by lack of inventory—the number of active listings was 184 last month, down from 219 a year ago.  For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute report.

View The Latest Long & Foster Market Minute Report  |  Download/Print PDF

THE STONE HARBOR POLICE DEPARTMENT has shifted its dispatching from Avalon to the Cape May County Communications Center.  The SHPD expressed thanks to the Avalon Police Department for its dispatch services since 2014.  The department also pointed out that although the location of dispatchers has changed, methods of contacting the SHPD have not: for emergencies, dial 9-1-1; for non-emergency police services, dial 609-368-2111; for records requests and other administrative functions, contact Police Administration at 609-368-1455.

AVALON changed construction regulations to ban exterior construction work on Saturdays during July and August; a ban on Sunday exterior work has been in place since last year.  The ban on summertime weekend work is in response to numerous complaints in 2018 regarding noise and other issues related to construction, preventing people from enjoying their summer homes on the weekends.  Demolition of homes is prohibited from July 1^st through Labor Day, with exceptions only in the case of emergencies.

PRESIDENTIAL VISITS to Cape May County are fairly rare, thus Donald Trump’s planned rally in Wildwood next week has garnered significant attention.  Trump will visit the Wildwood Convention Center, which holds an estimated 7,000 people.  Various reports estimate that close to 100,000 tickets were requested for the event, scheduled for January 28^th.  The Wildwoods have geared up for huge crowds: hotels report they are booked to capacity, many seasonal restaurants are expected to open for the event, and local school districts will be closed for the day.  Numerous presidents have visited Atlantic City, and many have visited Cape May, but next week’s rally will be the first time a president has visited Wildwood.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Mystery Book Club with Moderator Dorothy Pearson, title to be discussed is ‘Skinwalkers’ by Tony Hillerman, register at 609-967-7155, books may be available upon registration,  Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7:30PM, Thursday, January 23
• Lunch & Learn at the Wetlands Institute, bring your lunch and hear Glen Davis discuss Terrapin Track Stars, coffee & dessert will be provided, The Wetlands Institute, 11:45AM-1PM, Friday, January 24
• Windows Computers & Android Smartphones Drop InTech Workshop with Sean Farrell, help with questions about your computer, phone, software or an app, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11:30AM, Saturday, January 25
• Local Love Happy Hour at Jesse Creek Winery, 2-5PM, Saturday, January 25
• Roku with Sean Farrell, learn how to use this device to stream your favorite shows & movies over the Internet as your TV, 6-7PM, Monday, January 27
• Genealogy with Casey Zahn, learn how to research your family, Avalon Free Public Library, 1-3PM, Tuesday, January 28
• Award Season Film, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Avalon Free Public Library, 5-8PM, Tuesday, January 28
• Wetlands Institute Presentation & Covered Dish Dinner with discussion  about Changing Wetland Landscapes, bring a dish to share, $7 admission for members & $12 for non-members, 6-9PM, Friday, January 31
• Harbor Square Theater Comedy Show, fundraiser to benefit Cape May Tech High School, doors open at 8PM, show at 9PM, tickets in advance are $20 each, at the door $25 each, Friday, January 31
• Apple Computers, iPads & iPhones drop In Tech Workshop, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11:30AM, Saturday, February 1
• Native Americans of the Jersey Cape, Avalon History Center, 1-2PM, Saturday, February 1
• Life Coach Mary Lerario presents tips for sticking with resolutions & understanding when goals need to change or evolve, requires registration at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11AM, Tuesday, February 4
• Move & Groove with Cathy Cashmere, low impact dance fitness class, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7PM, Tuesday, February 4
• Wine & Chocolate Tasting at Hawk Haven Winery, live music by Greg Jones, 11AM-6PM, Saturday, February 8
• Comedy Uncorked, Willow Creek Winery, 6-10PM, Saturday, February 8

New Listings:

7929 Dune Drive, #108, Avalon, $360,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200273

100 96th Street, #304, Stone Harbor, $850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200259

284 25th Street, Avalon, $925,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200257

6337 Heron Cove, Avalon, $1,399,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200217

303 42nd Street, Avalon, $1,800,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200237

375 24th Street, Avalon, $2,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200190

2402 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $2,445,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200209

280 36th Street, Avalon, $2,799,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200208

65 S. Pelican Drive, Avalon, $3,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200255

Properties Under Contract:

323 80th Street, Stone Harbor, $780,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200016

300 79th Street, Avalon, $849,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200180

2314 Dune Drive, Avalon, $939,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189509

254 12th Street, Avalon, $1,699,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189341

247 22nd Street, Avalon, $1,950,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200175

598 22nd Street, Avalon, $1,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190862

1148 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $1,999,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189477

387 24th Street, Avalon, $3,600,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190271

179 114th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,349,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190663

Properties Sold:

311 80th Street, Unit #7, Avalon, $560,000, SOLD MLS#: 190088

C 11 Weber Court, Stone Harbor, $670,000, SOLD MLS#: 190718

311 80th Street, Avalon, $700,000, SOLD MLS#: 200204

275 100 Street, Stone Harbor, $1,275,000, SOLD MLS#: 188964

175 78th Street, Avalon, $1,600,000, SOLD MLS#: 182529

295 55th Street, Avalon, $1,800,000, SOLD MLS#: 185590

159 26th Street, Avalon, $2,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 188315

5 94th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 184377

After wading in the surf, a flock of sanderlings flies down the beach just over the wave tops, on a late fall day.

THE AVALON FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY will be a bit noisier than usual this week, as restroom renovations and carpet installation get underway.  The projects are expected to last two to three weeks.  The Avalon Library is a tremendous resource, and has received Library Journal’s five-star award eleven times since 2009.   The library is open seven days per week, year-round, except major holidays.

AN OVERNIGHT CLOSURE of the Avalon Boulevard Bridge took place earlier this week as repairs to the bridge’s surface and structure continue.  Traffic lanes alternate at most times, guided by temporary signals, but another overnight closure may be necessary next week.

HARD TIMES: A FILM BY BILL DOUGHERTY.  Longtime Stone Harbor resident Bill Dougherty recaps the difficulties of growing up during the depression this Saturday at 1pm at the Stone Harbor Museum.  Continuing the Avalon History Museum’s tradition of hosting winter talks on Saturdays, the Stone Harbor Museum is joining in and taking over the third Saturday of each month.

WILDWOOD: TWO MAJOR EVENTS have been announced for the 2020 season.  On June 6^th & 7^th the Wildwood Air Show will take place, featuring military demonstrations, aerobatics, and other displays.  The Wildwood Airshow is free, and visible along the beach.  Two weeks later the Barefoot Country Music Festival will take place on the beach June 19^th through 21st, featuring 30 musical performers over three days.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR 2020?  How about a little beach time?  Start browsing my 2020 Shore Rental Guide for ideas, then call or email me to book your vacation!  Check out the Rental Guide here: https://www.flipsnack.com/franzeographics/long-and-foster-avalon-stone-harbor-rental-brochure-fd1kyp3nr.html

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Teatime at the Avalon History Center, share memories & tea, 11AM, Thursday, January 16
• Kids’ Tea Party for kids and their caregivers, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11AM, Saturday, January 18
• Tips & feedback on poetry, memoirs, short stories, articles & books with Melissa Palmer, register at 609-967-7155, Avalon Free Public Library, 10AM-Noon, Saturday, January 18
• Wetlands Institute Creature Feature, live animal presentation, free with admission, 2-3PM, Saturday, January 18
• Live Music at the Cape May Winery at 711 Townbank Road, North Cape May, 2-5PM, Saturday, January 18
• Cellar Tasting at Hawk Haven Vineyards, 11AM-6PM, Sunday, January 19
• Move & Grove with Cathy Cashmere, low impact dance fitness class, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7PM, Tuesday, January 21
• Apple Computers, iPads & iPhones Drop In Tech Workshop with Cathy Zane, Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7:30PM, Wednesday, January 22
• Mystery Book Club with Moderator Dorothy Pearson, title to be discussed is ‘Skinwalkers’ by Tony Hillerman, register at 609-967-7155, books may be available at registration,  Avalon Free Public Library, 6-7:30PM, Thursday, January 23
• Roku with Sean Farrell, learn how to use this device to stream your favorite shows & movies over the Internet as your TV, 6-7PM, Monday, January 27
• Genealogy with Casey Zahn, learn how to research your family, Avalon Free Public Library, 1-3PM, Tuesday, January 28
• Award Season Film, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Avalon Free Public Library, 5-8PM, Tuesday, January 28
• Wetlands Institute Presentation & Covered Dish Dinner with discussion  about Changing Wetland Landscapes, bring a dish to share, $7 admission for members & $12 for non-members, 6-9PM, Friday, January 31
• Harbor Square Theater Comedy Show, fundraiser to benefit Cape May Tech High School, doors open at 8PM, show at 9PM, tickets in advance are $20 each, at the door $25 each, Friday, January 31
• Native Americans of the Jersey Cape, Avalon History Center, 1-2PM, Saturday, February 1
• Comedy Uncorked, Willow Creek Winery, 6-10PM, Saturday, February 8
• Stone Harbor’s 10^th Annual Shiver Weekend, proceeds benefit Family Promise of Cape May County, 10AM-3PM, Saturday, March 21

New Listings:

2101 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $329,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200081

2011 Dune Drive, Avalon, $1,099,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200167

Properties Under Contract:

250 24th Street, Avalon, $895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200136

1326 First Avenue, Avalon, $1,635,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189760

1148 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $1,999,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 189477

883 21st Street, Unit #883,  Avalon, $2,395,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 187352

10 E. 25th Street, Avalon, $2,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200095

221 56th Street, Avalon, $2,895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190883

7892 Sunset Drive, Avalon, $3,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190769

Properties Sold:

204 99th Street, Unit #3, Stone Harbor, $525,000, SOLD MLS#: 190074

247 22nd Street, Avalon, $725,000, SOLD MLS#: 185718

281 68th Street, Unit B, Avalon, $900,000, SOLD MLS#: 190573

7704 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,200,000, SOLD MLS#: 184726

954 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $2,175,000, SOLD MLS#: 189792

385 93rd Street, Stone Harbor, $2,500,000, SOLD MLS#: 189101

175 4th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,600,000, SOLD MLS#: 187653

141 65th Street, Avalon, $6,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 190798