Bill and Kay Leahy

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update June 30, 2022

June 30, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Mac Groce has a knack for capturing beautiful Avalon moments–and for making family memories! Make sure you do the same this holiday weekend!

GET OUT ON THE WATER! BOAT RIDES & FISHING TRIPS! What better way to enjoy the beauty of our island than by cruising island waters! Try your hand fishing aboard the Miss Avalon, or take an evening sunset cruise and look for dolphins! (www.MissAvalon.com) Try a private fishing charter with Captain Jim Lutz of Nev-R-Enuf Sportfishing (www.nev-r-enufsportfishing.com). If a private cruise around island waterways suits your fancy, reach out to Captain Doug Hopkins at Pursuit of Hoppiness Charters (www.pursuitofhoppinesscharters.com). Whatever vessel you choose you’re sure to have an experience to remember!

MARKET STATS: Sales have continued to be strong, though they’ve slowed; inventory has increased slightly but remains tight. For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute report below.

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

BEACH REPAIRS in Stone Harbor mean Stone Harbor Point and the 123^rd Street parking lot will be closed to pedestrians and all vehicles now through Friday, July 1st. Public Works crews will be repairing storm damage incurred at the Point. The Point will remain completely closed to all pedestrians and vehicles through July 8th. A large portion of the 123^rd Street lot will be open temporarily from July 2nd-4th, for parking and pedestrian access to the beach only (The Point will remain closed.) The parking lot will be completely closed again July 5th-8^th so that repair work can resume.

PUBLIC HEARINGS on the subject of offshore wind farms will be held by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, on July 14th, 20th, and 26th. A 45-day public comment period is open now through August 8th. This NBC10 Philadelphia report has details on wind farm developments along the Atlantic cost, as well as links to the BOEM Virtual Hearing, here: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/national-international/changing-climate/offshore-wind-us/enjoy-the-view-while-it-lasts-jersey-shore-with-100s-of-wind-turbines-revealed/3274895/?fbclid=IwAR3mJdFgGkkkf1_PWVzFydRl8Y6mPb0EyJEq11ODxZHYDGl909UsAJXlCmk

NOTICE TO MARINERS! IntraCoastal Waterway marker #384 has been damaged behind Avalon, and its piling is partially submerged, putting boaters at risk, according to a report from SeaTow Cape May. The marker is in the “football field” area near Paddy’s Hole. Other sources have reported that several collisions with the submerged piling have already occurred, so boaters should use caution until the obstruction is removed.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! It’s shaping up to be a great three-day weekend! There’s good weather in the forecast, and there are plenty of activities on the calendar (see below for more!). Monday evening top it off with huge fireworks shows on the beach in both Avalon & Stone Harbor!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Fridays at Surfside: Minion Mayhem. Surfside Park, Friday July 1^st, 6:30pm.
Hoagie Sale, Stone Harbor Fire Department, July 2^nd, 8am to 12pm.
63^rd Army Band at Surfside Park, Saturday, July 2^nd, 6:30pm.
Avalon Boat Parade, begins at Avalon Yacht Club, Sunday, July 3^rd, 11am. Watch from any bayfront location; no registration necessary for participants.
Field Day & Homerun Derby, Monday, July 4^th, 9am to 1pm, 81^st Street Recreation Field.
Bay Atlantic Symphony, Monday, July 4^th, 7pm, Avalon Community Hall.
Fireworks! Monday, July 4^th, 8:45pm, 30^th Street Beach. Fireworks simulcast on WCZT 98.7FM The Coast.
Fireworks! Monday, July 4^th. 9pm, 96^th Street Beach.
SAT Prep Class, Avalon Free Library, Begins Tuesday, July 5^th 3pm to 5pm, and includes six sessions (additional dates are July 12^th, 19^th, 26^th, and August 2^nd and 9^th.) Registration is required, visit https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/events/teen-event-sat-prep
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Tribe,” July 5^th, 7pm-9pm.
Beach Movie, “Top Gun,” Tuesday, July 5^th, 8pm, 30^th Street Beach.
Stone Harbor Triathlon: ¼ mile swim, 11-mile bike ride, 5K run. Stone Harbor Yacht Club, Sunday, July 10^th, 7am. More info here: https://www.trisignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/StoneHarborTriathlon
Lunch and Learn: Betsy Ross. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, July 11^th, 11am.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Jimm Ross Band,” July 12^th, 7pm-9pm.
Festival of Lights Boat Parade & Food Truck Festival, Saturday, July 30^th, 7pm to 10pm, 81^st Street Public Marina.

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Begins July 5th, 7pm-9pm.
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesday at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Begins Thursday, June 30^th, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Begins Friday, July 1, 6pm.

New Listings:

9511 Sunset Drive, Stone Harbor, $515,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221964

2318 Dune Drive, 2318, Avalon, $2,199,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221998

332 89th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221996

121 15th Street, Avalon, $2,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221958

10605 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $6,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221982

310 70th Street, Avalon, $9,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221967

Properties Under Contract:

743 21st Street, Avalon, $2,499,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221333

Properties Sold:

329 92nd Street, Stone Harbor, $1,300,000, SOLD MLS#: 210632

59 W. 30th Street, Avalon, $3,075,000, SOLD MLS#: 221447

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update June 23, 2022

June 23, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Ospreys are perched on their familiar nesting locations in the back bay areas surrounding Avalon and Stone Harbor. Ospreys usually return to the same nests each year, and hunt fish for food, returning to their nests with their daily catches.

BEACH SAFETY: An unusually high number of water rescues have occurred along the South Jersey beaches since the summer season got underway a few weeks ago, and a few have, ended tragically. Officials in beach towns have reminded beachgoers to only swim at guarded beaches when lifeguards are present, and to be aware of potential rip currents, which the Avalon Beach Patrol says account for 80% of all ocean rescues in the US. The graphic below describes rip currents, and how to deal with them.

THOSE FISHING in New Jersey waters, or landing their catch in New Jersey, are required to register with New Jersey’s free Saltwater Recreational Registry. No fishing license is required in NJ, but registration is, for anglers age 16 and over. The registry is a way to collect recreational fishing data to help assess and protect fish stocks, and set rules to ensure long term sustainability of fish stocks. For more information, or to register, visit: https://www.nj.gov/dep/saltwaterregistry/ Those fishing for Atlantic tuna, billfish, swordfish, and sharks must also obtain the Highly Migratory Species (HMS) permit from the NOAA Fisheries website. For more information visit: https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/

PARADE OF PLANETS! A rare planetary alignment will occur in the early morning hours of June 24th, with Mercury, Venus, Uranus, the moon, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn all in a row for easy viewing. The best viewing time is expected to be from 3:30am to 4:45am the morning of June 24th. You’ll need clear skies, of course, and an unobstructed view to the east helps–exactly what we have in Avalon & Stone Harbor. Take your telescope, binoculars, and camera!

The planetary alignment as seen at 4:10am on 24 June 2022 © NASA/ESA/ESO/Space Telescope Science Institute/IAU Minor Planet Center/Fabien Chereau/Noctua Software.

GET OUT ON THE WATER! Back by popular demand, we’ll feature a Get Out On The Water idea each week for the next several weeks, exploring both popular and unusual ways to experience our ocean and bay waters. Look for our first of many ideas next week!

JULY 4TH WEEKEND will be filled with all kinds of activities, including concerts, a boat parade, a Home Run Derby, and of course, huge fireworks shows in both Avalon and Stone Harbor. The fireworks displays take place on the evening of the 4^th at 8:45pm on the 30^th Street beach (Avalon) and 9pm on the 96^th Street beach (Stone Harbor). The fireworks shows are visible up and down the beach, and from many other locations on the island. For the rest of the weekend events, see our Upcoming Events list below!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Avalon Historical Society Olde House Tour, Friday, June 24^th, 1pm. Tickets required; call 609-967-0090 or email brisley@avalonhistoricalsociety.org
Food Truck Festival, 63^rd Street & Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City, Friday, June 24^th (4pm-8pm) and Saturday, June 25^th (Noon-8pm).
At Your Service Event: Cocktail Reception, Hors d’Oeuvres, Live Music, Silent Auction, Live Service Auction. Icona Avalon, Tuesday, June 28^th, 6pm-9pm. $35 per person. Call 609-846-7862 x9 for reservations.
Beach Movie, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” June 28^th, 30^th Street Beach, dusk.
Fridays at Surfside: Minion Mayhem. Surfside Park, Friday July 1^st, 6:30pm.
Hoagie Sale, Stone Harbor Fire Department, July 2^nd, 8am to 12pm.
63^rd Army Band at Surfside Park, Saturday, July 2^nd, 6:30pm.
Avalon Boat Parade, begins at Avalon Yacht Club, Sunday, July 3^rd, 11am. Watch from any bayfront location; no registration necessary for participants.
Field Day & Homerun Derby, Monday, July 4^th, 9am to 1pm, 81^st Street Recreation Field.
Bay Atlantic Symphony, Monday, July 4^th, 7pm, Avalon Community Hall.
Fireworks! Monday, July 4^th, 8:45pm, 30^th Street Beach. Fireworks simulcast on WCZT 98.7FM The Coast.
Fireworks! Monday, July 4^th. 9pm, 96^th Street Beach.
Stone Harbor Triathlon: ¼ mile swim, 11-mile bike ride, 5K run. Stone Harbor Yacht Club, Sunday, July 10^th, 7am. More info here: https://www.trisignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/StoneHarborTriathlon
Lunch and Learn: Betsy Ross. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, July 11^th, 11am.
SAT Prep Class, Avalon Free Library, Begins Tuesday, July 5^th 3pm to 5pm, and includes six sessions (additional dates are July 12^th, 19^th, 26^th, and August 2^nd and 9^th.) Registration is required, visit https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/events/teen-event-sat-prep
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Tribe,” July 5^th, 7pm-9pm.
Beach Movie, “Top Gun,” Tuesday, July 5^th, 8pm, 30^th Street Beach.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Jimm Ross Band,” July 12^th, 7pm-9pm.
Festival of Lights Boat Parade & Food Truck Festival, Saturday, July 30^th, 7pm to 10pm, 81^st Street Public Marina.

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Begins July 5th, 7pm-9pm.
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Begins Thursday, June 30^th, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Begins Friday, July 1, 6pm.

New Listings:

9501 Sunset Drive, 7, Stone Harbor, $899,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221890

273 80th Street, Avalon, $1,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221894

331 83rd Street, 4, Stone Harbor, $1,599,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221878

2522 Dune Drive, 2520 Dune Drive, Avalon, $2,000,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221847

249 109th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,150,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221839

14 E. 27th Street, North, Avalon, $2,450,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221898

264 41st Street, Avalon, $2,990,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221868

891 21st Street, Avalon, $3,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221896

203 75th Street, Avalon, $5,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221880

46 E. 18th Street, Avalon, $6,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221881

4388 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $8,499,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221903

Properties Under Contract:

545 22nd Street, 2nd floor, Avalon, $1,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221872

251 110th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221069

122 93rd Street, Stone Harbor, $3,000,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221771

Properties Sold:

10815 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $1,550,000, SOLD MLS#: 220881

259 28th Street, Avalon, $1,810,000, SOLD MLS#: 221088

261 83rd Street, Stone Harbor, $2,850,000, SOLD MLS#: 220765

148 9th Street, Avalon, $3,400,000, SOLD MLS#: 210586

245 67th Street, Avalon, $3,750,000, SOLD MLS#: 221390

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update June 16, 2022

June 16, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

The recognizable cupola atop the Wetlands Institute is backlight as the sun sinks in the sky earlier this month.

MORE TURTLES are crossing local roadways as we enter egglaying season. Keep an eye out for them and slow down to avoid them if at all possible. If you stop to help a turtle cross the road, please move it in the direction it was originally headed, and take all necessary steps to ensure your own safety on the road. Ted Greenberg of NBC10 Philadelphia recently aired this piece about turtles, and the Wetlands Institute’s “Turtle Patrol”: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/turtle-patrol-at-jersey-shore-wants-drivers-to-watch-out-for-terrapins/3267816/

REMINDER: BRING REUSABLE BAGS with you for use while here on vacation. A recently passed state law prohibits the use of single use plastics in most cases, so bringing a supply of reusable bags with you is important. Rental property tip: if you own a rental property, it’s a nice idea to have some reusable bags available for your tenants; they can be kept in a drawer or closet.

STONE HARBOR recently reminded homeowners about irrigation restrictions. An odd/even system is in effect for lawns and plant beds. This graphic has the details:

AVALON WATER & SEWER PAYMENTS will be collected by the Borough of Avalon beginning July 1st. Payments can be mailed to the borough at 3100 Dune Drive, Avalon, NJ 08202, or placed in a drop box at Borough Hall. Those wishing to set up direct debit payments for future bills can do so here: https://avalonboro.net/avalon-now-offers-direct-debit-and-online-payments-for-water-and-sewer-bills/

EVER WONDERED what it’s like to operate the Cape May-Lewes Ferry across the Delaware Bay each day? If you’re on Instragram, check out this “Day in the Life” video. Shot aboard the ferry by various members of the crew, the series of clips shows on board operations from the crew’s perspective: https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17934108794211651/

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Beach Fit Expo, 81^st Street Recreation Fields, 6am to noon, Saturday, June 18^th.
Skimmer Festival, JFK Boulevard at Pleasure Avenue, Excursion Park, and the Promenade, Sea Isle City, Saturday & Sunday, June 18^th & 19^th, 9am-4pm. Vendors, food court, family activities, music, antique auto show (Sunday).
Dune Walks: Guided by The Wetlands Institute; learn about Avalon’s dune system. $3 per person, 48^th Street Beach Path, 9:30am Wednesday, June 22^nd.
Avalon Historical Society Olde House Tour, Friday, June 24^th, 1pm. Tickets required; call 609-967-0090 or email brisley@avalonhistoricalsociety.org
Food Truck Festival, 63^rd Street & Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City, Friday, June 24^th (4pm-8pm) and Saturday, June 25^th (Noon-8pm).
At Your Service Event: Cocktail Reception, Hors d’Oeuvres, Live Music, Silent Auction, Live Service Auction. Icona Avalon, Tuesday, June 28^th, 6pm-9pm. $35 per person. Call 609-846-7862 x9 for reservations.
Beach Movie, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” June 28^th, 30^th Street Beach, dusk.
Hoagie Sale, Stone Harbor Fire Department, July 2^nd, 8am to 12pm.
Fireworks! Monday, July 4^th. Stay tuned for more details!
Stone Harbor Triathlon: ¼ mile swim, 11-mile bike ride, 5K run. Stone Harbor Yacht Club, Sunday, July 10^th, 7am. More info here: https://www.trisignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/StoneHarborTriathlon
Lunch and Learn: Betsy Ross. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, July 11^th, 11am.
SAT Prep Class, Avalon Free Library, Begins Tuesday, July 5^th 3pm to 5pm, and includes six sessions (additional dates are July 12^th, 19^th, 26^th, and August 2^nd and 9^th.) Registration is required, visit https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/events/teen-event-sat-prep
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Tribe,” July 5^th, 7pm-9pm.
Beach Movie, “Top Gun,” Tuesday, July 5^th, 8pm, 30^th Street Beach.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Jimm Ross Band,” July 12^th, 7pm-9pm.

New Listings:

53 Stone Court, Stone Harbor, $1,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221792

1769 First Avenue, Avalon, $2,850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221824

122 93rd Street, Stone Harbor, $3,000,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221771

261 60th Street, Avalon, $4,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221807

1739 Dune Drive, Avalon, $4,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221827

340 104th Street, Stone Harbor, $8,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221761

Properties Under Contract:

10208 2nd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $2,450,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221796

260 88th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221703

213 61st Street, Avalon, $3,595,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221335

226 119th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221590

397 20th Street, Avalon, $8,695,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221512

Properties Sold:

9511 Sunset Drive, 405, Stone Harbor, $534,000, SOLD MLS#: 214223

2825 Dune Drive, 1, Avalon, $1,190,000, SOLD MLS#: 220852

393 94th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,750,000, SOLD MLS#: 220486

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update June 9, 2022

June 9, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

“Avalon Gold!” said Mac Groce, who captured this beautiful Avalon sunset shot. We couldn’t agree more, Mac! Thanks for sharing!

STONE HARBOR’S BEACH PATROL BUILDING is progressing, and a temporary certificate of occupancy is expected in mid-June. Material delays have slowed progress.

The Stone Harbor Beach Patrol building is nearing completion. This February photo shows construction in progress. In the background is the Pebbles Guest House, currently undergoing renovation.

RESTAURANT WEEK in Cape May takes place now through June 12th. More than twenty restaurants are participating with a variety of special menu items. Find info here: https://www.cmrestaurantweek.com/

Wildwood Restaurant Week takes place June 12th through 16th, with several dozen restaurants participating. Check them out here: https://www.chewwildwood.com/

Of course, there’s no need to leave Seven Mile Island to find great restaurants! From cheeseburgers to caviar, our huge variety of local restaurants will satisfy any palate!

THE US COAST GUARD is always standing by to assist boaters in distress, but this past week was an especially busy one for local Coast Guard crews. In the past several days crews assisted a small vessel in distress; received a call about a 12-foot great white shark a mile off the Sea Isle beach; responded to assist a 26-foot vessel taking on water in Delaware Bay; and responded to a vessel with a fouled anchor and taking on water near Hereford Inlet in 6-8 foot seas. Good weather or bad, Coast Guard vessels, helicopters, and their crews are ready!

TURTLE TIME! It’s egg laying season for local diamondback terrapins, and they’re often seen crossing local roadways, seeking high ground. Protective turtle barriers along many roadways help prevent turtles from meeting their demise on the asphalt, but keep an eye open and slow down when they’re crossing. If you’re inclined to help the turtle cross the road, move it in the direction it was originally travelling, and please, take all necessary steps to ensure your own safety on the roadway.

THIRTY-YEAR MORTGAGE RATES fell to an average of 5.1% for the week ending May 26, from 5.3% two weeks earlier. (Source: Wells Fargo/Freddie Mac) If you’re planning a property purchase the recent rate dip may be a good time to lock in your mortgage rate.

NEED TO ESCAPE TO THE BEACH? Whether you need a week’s vacation, or you want to make it permanent, call or email me!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Avalon Garden Club 38^th Annual Flower Show, Avalon Community Hall, Saturday, June 11^th, 10am to 2pm. www.AvalonGardenClub.org.
Cape May Restaurant Week, through June 12^th. https://www.cmrestaurantweek.com/category/restaurant-week/
Flag Day Ceremony & Open House, American Legion Post 331, 117^th Street & Second Avenue, Tuesday, June 14^th, 12pm.
Stone Harbor Museum Speaker Series: Stone Harbor Storms, 94^th Street & Second Avenue, Wednesday, June 15^th, 7pm.
Beach Fit Expo, 81^st Street Recreation Fields, 6am to noon, Saturday, June 18^th.
Dune Walks: Guided by The Wetlands Institute; learn about Avalon’s dune system. $3 per person, 48^th Street Beach Path, 9:30am Wednesday, June 22^nd.
Avalon Historical Society Olde House Tour, Friday, June 24^th, 1pm. Tickets required; call 609-967-0090 or email brisley@avalonhistoricalsociety.org
At Your Service Event: Cocktail Reception, Hors d’Oeuvres, Live Music, Silent Auction, Live Service Auction. Icona Avalon, Tuesday, June 28^th, 6pm-9pm. $35 per person. Call 609-846-7862 x9 for reservations.
Beach Movie, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” June 28^th, 30^th Street Beach, dusk.
Hoagie Sale, Stone Harbor Fire Department, July 2^nd, 8am to 12pm.
Fireworks! Monday, July 4^th. Stay tuned for more details!
Stone Harbor Triathlon: ¼ mile swim, 11-mile bike ride, 5K run. Stone Harbor Yacht Club, Sunday, July 10^th, 7am. More info here: https://www.trisignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/StoneHarborTriathlon
Lunch and Learn: Betsy Ross. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, July 11^th, 11am.
SAT Prep Class, Avalon Free Library, Begins Tuesday, July 5^th 3pm to 5pm, and incudes six sessions (additional dates are July 12^th, 19^th, 26^th, and August 2^nd and 9^th.) Registration is required; visit https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/events/teen-event-sat-prep
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Tribe,” July 5^th, 7pm-9pm.
Beach Movie, “Top Gun,” Tuesday, July 5^th, 8pm, 30^th Street Beach.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Live Music, beer/wine for sale. “Jimm Ross Band,” July 12^th, 7pm-9pm.

New Listings:

7888 Dune Drive, 213, Avalon, $341,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221671

290 33rd Street, West unit, Avalon, $1,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221721

260 88th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221703

237 26th Street, East Side, Avalon, $2,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221700

133 27th Street, Avalon, $3,250,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221713

327 88th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,600,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221740

300-302-304-306 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $5,800,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221709

213 57th Street, Avalon, $5,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221718

Properties Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 211, Avalon, $341,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221712

7888 Dune Drive, 209, Avalon, $351,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221032

251 109th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,449,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221437

315 58th Street, Avalon, $9,950,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 220529

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, 320, Avalon, $349,000, SOLD MLS#: 221129

700 First Avenue, 317, Avalon, $949,000, SOLD MLS#: 221539

6188 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $2,995,000, SOLD MLS#: 220651

1796 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $3,030,000, SOLD MLS#: 221366

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update June 2, 2022

June 2, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

The island was blessed with three days of sunny, dry weather–perfect conditions to kick off the summer season! Scott Zimmerman captured this beautiful view of Sunday evening’s sunset at 68^th Street & the bay!

WHAT A WEEKEND! It was warm (but not hot!), sunny, and dry all weekend! Stores and restaurants saw good crowds, while the weather was perfect for walking, jogging, bicycling, boating, or relaxing on the beach! On Monday both Avalon and Stone Harbor took time to remember those that have sacrificed everything for our freedom, with ceremonies and parades in each town.

AFTER A PAUSE for the holiday weekend Avalon’s sand backpassing project resumed. A week-long stretch of bad weather in May delayed the project timeline; officials hope to conclude the work on north-end beaches in a couple of weeks. Beaches remain open except in areas marked by signage in the immediate work area.

A CALL TO “ARMS”: Adjustable rate mortgages have become more popular after recent rate increases pushed up fixed rates by a couple of percentage points. Many ARMs have an initial fixed rate period of 3, 5, 7, or 10 years, after which the rate adjusts at set increments. During the initial fixed period, however, the rate is typically lower than traditional 15- and 30-year fixed rates. ARMs can be a good choice since most mortgages are not held to their full 15- or 30-year maturity; it’s also a great option for those who intend to pay down their mortgage quickly after closing (or pay it off entirely.)

THE BEACH BOYS will be “Surfin’ USA” in Wildwood on August 27th, as they bring their classic beach & surf tunes to the Wildwood Convention Center. Tickets are available from $55 and up. If you prefer your music right on the beach, the Wildwood Barefoot Country Music Festival brings more than 40 country music artists to Wildwood’s beach June 16^th through 19th. Tickets are available from $39 and up.

CAPE MAY COUNTY’S TOURISM REVENUE reached $6.6 billion in 2021, up from $5.4 billion during 2020 when the pandemic was in full swing. The 2021 figure is close to 2019’s record figure of $6.9 billion, according to County Tourism Director Diane Wieland, who spoke at a recent conference. Most officials are hopeful that 2022 will equal, if not surpass, 2021.

AVALON WATER & SEWER PAYMENTS will be collected by the Avalon Tax Collector’s Office beginning July 1st. Mail-in payments can be sent to Borough of Avalon, 3100 Dune Drive, Avalon, NJ 08202. Two drop boxes are available at Avalon Borough Hall if you want to drop off your payment. Online Banking Payments will post automatically to the account number that you entered in your online banking system, but customers should update their system to name the Borough of Avalon as the payee, and include the borough’s address (shown above) in the payee profile.

THE STONE HARBOR FARMERS MARKET is back, every Sunday at 8:30am, in the Water Tower Parking lot on 95^th Street. Find local produce, treats, crafts, and more!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursday, June 2^nd, 7pm-8pm.
Stone Harbor Farmers Market, Water Tower Lot, 95^th Street & Second Avenue, Sunday, June 5^th, 8am-12:30pm.
Lecture: How to Create a Pollinator Garden, 39^th Street Tennis Building, Wednesday, June 8^th, 10am.
Avalon Garden Club 38^th Annual Flower Show, Avalon Community Hall, Saturday, June 11^th, 10am to 2pm. www.AvalonGardenClub.org.
Flag Day Ceremony & Open House, American Legion Post 331, 117^th Street & Second Avenue, Tuesday, June 14^th, 12pm.
Stone Harbor Museum Speaker Series: Stone Harbor Storms, 94^th Street & Second Avenue, Wednesday, June 15^th, 7pm.
Beach Fit Expo, 81^st Street Recreation Fields, 6am to noon, Saturday, June 18^th.
Avalon Historical Society Olde House Tour, Friday, June 24^th, 1pm. Tickets required; call 609-967-0090 or email brisley@avalonhistoricalsociety.org
Beach Movie, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” June 28^th, 30^th Street Beach, dusk.
Hoagie Sale, Stone Harbor Fire Department, July 2^nd, 8am to 12pm.
SAT Prep Class, Avalon Free Library, Begins Tuesday, July 5^th 3pm to 5pm, and incudes six sessions (additional dates are July 12^th, 19^th, 26^th, and August 2^nd and 9^th.) Registration is required; visit https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/events/teen-event-sat-prep
Beach Movie, “Top Gun,” Tuesday, July 5^th, 8pm, 30^th Street Beach.

New Listings:1114 Stone Harbor Blvd., 102, Stone Harbor Manor, $989,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221648

2117 4th Avenue, Unit A, Avalon, $1,100,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221612

378 83rd Street, Unit 1, Stone Harbor, $1,199,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221653

1969 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $2,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221603

238 66th Street, Avalon, $3,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221599

226 119th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,250,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221590

Properties Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 312, Avalon, $351,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 220823

700 First Avenue, 317, Avalon, $949,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221539

862 First Avenue, 3, Avalon, $1,349,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221542

2511 Dune Drive, Avalon, $2,149,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221525

285 58th Street, Avalon, $2,699,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221425

65 W. 17th Street, Avalon, $3,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221619

302 42nd Street, Avalon, $3,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221587

192 33rd Street, Avalon, $5,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221584

10115 Sunrise Drive, Stone Harbor, $6,500,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221604

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, 207, Avalon, $339,000, SOLD MLS#: 220465

393 21st Street, Avalon, $1,400,000, SOLD MLS#: 214173

141 76th Street, Avalon, $5,795,000, SOLD MLS#: 220903

38 S. Pelican Drive, Avalon, $8,450,000, SOLD MLS#: 210304

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Stephen C. Ludlam American Legion Post 331 will participate in Memorial Day Parades and Ceremonies this weekend in both Avalon and Stone Harbor. Photo from Stephen C. Ludlam American Legion Post 331.

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND IS HERE! We’re all looking forward to a three-day weekend to kick start the summer season! The early forecast shows a chance of rain showers part of the weekend, with mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s the rest of the time! Catch some of the many events here on the island, or the Memorial Day parades and ceremonies (see below for details.)

MARABELLA’S RESTAURANT has closed. After 50 years, owner Angelo Marabella has officially retired, according to the restaurant’s Facebook page. The property has been sold, but future plans for it are unknown. There are, of course, other great dining options available on the island, such as Spiaggetta, which was just included in NJ.com’s list of the 50 greatest Italian restaurants in New Jersey!

A 100-FOOT BARGE hauling scrap appliances caught fire while transiting Delaware Bay earlier this week, enroute to a recycling facility. The US Coast Guard and several commercial entities responded to fight the blaze, which burned overnight. FDNY fireboat “Bravest” was dispatched to the scene, making the trip from New York City down the New Jersey coastline, stopping to refuel in Cape May, and then transiting the Cape May Canal in order to reach the fire near Cross Ledge in Delaware Bay. The fireboat is capable of pumping up to 6,000 gallons of water per minute, and operated 20 hours on the scene, applying over 1 million gallons of water to the fire before being released.

THE SUMMER BUCKET LIST! It’s time…grab a pencil and paper and make your very own Summer Bucket List! What would you like to be sure to do this summer? Watch a sunrise on the beach? Take your grandchild fishing? Try a new restaurant with friends? Whatever it is, make a note of it, make it a priority, and make time for it! Summer is here..set aside time to enjoy it!

SUMMER TIPS FOR ON AND AROUND THE ISLAND:

No Turn On Red is in effect at all traffic lights on the island.

Stone Harbor Boulevard has been repaved, restriped, and restricted to 35mph–and a new speed bump has been added near the Wetlands Institute, so use caution. Avalon Boulevard remains 50mph.

Bring reusable bags with you. A new state law eliminates one-time-use bags, so you’ll need your own when you go shopping for groceries or other items.

LAST CHANCE FOR BEACHTAGS at pre-season rates! Season tags increase after May 31st, and can be purchased in person, or online.

Purchase Avalon tags here: https://jersey-cape-tags.myshopify.com/collections/currentbeachtagsbadges/products/avalon-2022-seasonal-beach-tag
Purchase Stone Harbor tags here: https://jersey-cape-tags.myshopify.com/collections/currentbeachtagsbadges/products/stone-harbor-2022-seasonal-beach-tag

WORK CONTINUES on Avalon’s beach sand backpassing project, but will pause from Thursday (May 26th) through Monday (May 30th.) As much sand as possible will put in place prior to the weekend, when all beach paths will be open. Beach work will resume the morning of Tuesday, May 31st.

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS: Avalon’s Memorial Day Parade will begin at 9am Monday, May 30th, at 32^nd & Dune Drive, and proceed north along Dune Drive to 21^st Street. A Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at Veteran’s Plaza immediately after the parade concludes. Stone Harbor will hold a Memorial Day Ceremony at the Stone Harbor Firehouse at 11am Monday, May 30th. A Memorial Day Parade will follow at 12 noon.

A SPECIAL THANKS: As we enjoy the holiday weekend, take some time to reflect upon and thank those who protect and serve our country, and especially those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Beach Opening Color Run, 95^th Street beach, Saturday, May 28^th, 9am registration, run starts at 10am.
Stone Harbor Museum Grand Opening, Saturday, May 28^th, 10am. Stop by and see the newly renovated Museum, including a variety of Stone Harbor history displays.
Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children Community Open House, 127 26^th Street, 11am-2pm, Saturday, May 28^th.
Stone Harbor Lifeguard Tryouts, 95^th Street & the beach, Sunday, May 29^th, 10am. Info & application here: https://stoneharbornj.org/2022-lifeguard-tryouts-scheduled-for-sunday-may-29th/?fbclid=IwAR0GLoDuRjFQe9OAQwsU4wxG_slWP3JSNDqn3tgDRKZLeg8Aa0SuUrdgzCQ
Turtle Trot 5k & 2-Mile Fun Run, Sunday, May 29^th. Register at https://raceroster.com/events/2022/60233/stone-harbor-turtle-trot-5k
Strawberry Festival, Sweet Jersey Strawberry Desserts & Springer’s Ice Cream, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 95^th & Third Avenue, Sunday, May 29^th, 6pm to 8pm. www.StMarysStoneHarbor.org
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, Avalon, Monday, May 30^th, 9am. Parade begins at 32^nd & Dune Drive and heads north on Dune Drive to 21^st Street, with the ceremony to follow at Veterans Plaza.
Memorial Day Ceremony, Stone Harbor Firehouse, Monday, May 30^th, 11am.
Memorial Day Parade, Stone Harbor, Monday, May 30^th, 12 noon.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursday, June 2^nd, 7pm-8pm.
Stone Harbor Farmers Market, Water Tower Lot, 95^th Street & Second Avenue, Sunday, June 5^th, 8am-12:30pm.
Avalon Garden Club 38^th Annual Flower Show, Avalon Community Hall, Saturday, June 11^th, 10am to 2pm. www.AvalonGardenClub.org.
Beach Movie, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” June 28^th, 30^th Street Beach, dusk.

New Listings:

700 First Avenue, 317, Avalon, $949,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221539

448 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $1,155,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221509

414 Old Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $1,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221479

862 First Avenue, 3, Avalon, $1,349,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221542

1116 Stone Harbor Blvd., 309, Stone Harbor Manor, $1,925,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221504

2511 Dune Drive, Avalon, $2,149,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221525

19 Flamingo Drive, Avalon, $6,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 221538

Properties Under Contract:

733 21st Street, Avalon, $1,475,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221098

318 83rd Street, #9, Stone Harbor, $1,950,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221546

59 W. 30th Street, Avalon, $2,999,999, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221447

Properties Sold:

7900 Dune Drive, 305, Avalon, $335,000, SOLD MLS#: 214391

9629 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $1,625,000, SOLD MLS#: 211753

2109 Harbor Avenue, Avalon, $3,005,000, SOLD MLS#: 220719

238 59th Street, Avalon, $3,415,000, SOLD MLS#: 220632

4816 5th Avenue, Avalon, $10,000,000, SOLD MLS#: 203828

Meet Bill and Kay