“LOOK FOR THE HELPERS.  YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND PEOPLE WHO ARE HELPING.” –MR. ROGERS  Fred Rogers, host of the the children’s television show “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood,” spoke those words decades ago, and they still seem very fitting today.  Mr. Rogers went on to say “I came to see that the world is full of doctors and nurses, police and firemen, volunteers, neighbors and friends who are ready to jump in to help when things go wrong.”  The doctors, nurses, first responders, and others who have jumped in to help in so many ways prove that Mr. Rogers was right.

LONG & FOSTER’S OWN TERRY WRIGHT is one who jumped in to help.  She had seen the suggestion that people buy gift certificates to local restaurants to support them.  Terry took it to a new level, as she described in her own words: “Jeff and I decided to support small business. But instead of buying gift certificates, we had lunch delivered to our local hospital’s emergency room staff.  I called the hospital earlier in the week to make sure they would allow food delivery. The emergency department manager was so appreciative and said how much the staff would enjoy this gesture.  We called a local eatery to make arrangements. They even added some extras since it was a donation.  I then called the charge nurse to let her know the day and time lunch would come. She was over the moon with appreciation.”

Thank you, Terry, for helping out a local business and the doctors and nurses on the front line!

THE CAPE MAY COUNTY ZOO is helping those who are homeschooling their kids.  Take a break from regular assignments and join in for Virtual Zoo School on weekdays at 11:30am.  Each lesson will feature a different animal and teach you all about it.  Lessons will be featured on the Zoo’s Facebook page, as well as here: https://www.capemaycountynj.gov/1400/Virtual-Zoo-School

In just a few months summer will be upon us!

IF YOU NEED A LITTLE BIT OF THE SHORE in your life, check out a couple of the live cams available.  Avalon’s beach cam is available here: https://www.visitavalonnj.com/webcam  and The Wetlands Institute has several live cams here:  https://wetlandsinstitute.org/education/osprey-camera/

CONFESSIONS OF A HOPELESS OPTIMIST:  We’ve all been bombarded by news, statistics, warnings, and more.  You may find this article to be a very refreshing perspective.  Using history as a guide, it offers reasons to be optimistic about both the pandemic and the economy, and is well worth the read: https://concentuswealth.com/confessions-of-a-hopeless-optimist/

EMAIL OR CALL ME!  Even though our office is closed to comply with official guidlines, I remain available to help in any way that I can!

New Listings:

779 Stone Harbor Boulevard, Stone Harbor Manor, $309,500, ACTIVE MLS#: 201177

1719 Ocean Drive, #9, Avalon, $695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201181

1668 Ocean Drive, B-7, Avalon, $869,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201185

12 Hallman Road, Stone Harbor Manor, $1,100,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201195

234 16th Street, Avalon, $1,345,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201192

178 35th Street, Avalon, $2,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201184

Properties Under Contract:

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

13 93rd Street, #5, Stone Harbor, $1,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189166

10559 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $3,300,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 201123

Properties Sold:

269 80th Street, Avalon, $705,000, SOLD MLS#: 189678

284 25th Street, Avalon, $930,000, SOLD MLS#: 200257

2529 Ocean Drive, East, Avalon, $1,100,000, SOLD MLS#: 190379

237 83rd Street, Stone Harbor, $2,515,000, SOLD MLS#: 187259

A SPECIAL UPDATE from Avalon & Stone Harbor:

OUR OFFICE:  We’re following the protocols established for CoVid-19, and our office is closed to the general public to limit face-to-face contact at this time.   We’ll reassess based on the latest conditions and guidance from proper authorities.

OUR AGENTS are working remotely and conducting business every day.

CONTACT ME by email or phone. I remain available for your real estate needs–simply message, email, or call me!

BUSINESS CONTINUES: offers are being made, negotiations continue, and contracts are being written.  Transactions are being processed and closings are being conducted remotely.

MARKET STATS:  For a detailed analysis of the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute report:

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

UPCOMING EVENTS:  Most events and public gatherings have been cancelled, following protocols established by authorities.  As events are rescheduled, our popular “Upcoming Events” list will return.

PLEASE BE SAFE AND FOLLOW all health & safety recommendations during this situation.

THIS TOO SHALL PASS.  Our nation, our people, and our economy have weathered wars, global and political conflicts, and economic downturns.  We remain quite confident in our nation, its people, and our economy.  This too shall pass, and good things are on the horizon!

New Listings:

7751 Ocean Drive, Unit C, Avalon, $469,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201105

325 80th Street, #16, Stone Harbor, $835,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201110

136 Meadowview Drive, Avalon Manor, $1,285,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201055

2459 First Avenue, Avalon, $1,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201084

289 65th Street, West, Avalon, $1,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201131

8533 Sunset Drive, Stone Harbor, $2,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201034

73 W. 15th Street, Avalon, $3,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201119

10559 Third Ave., Stone Harbor, $3,300,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201123

31 Heron Drive, Avalon, $4,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201040

35 Heron Drive, Avalon, $5,500,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201041

Properties Under Contract:

2819 Dune Drive, Avalon, $50,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189480

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

558 Old Avalon Boulevard, Avalon, $874,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 201005

1574 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,179,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200594

1210 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,349,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189111

312 40th Street, West, Avalon, $1,349,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189916

7 Flamingo Drive, Avalon, $3,599,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190242

74 37th Street, Avalon, $4,700,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200969

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, #301, Avalon, $355,000, SOLD MLS#: 200054

3462 Ocean Drive, South, Avalon, $1,300,000, SOLD MLS#: 190120

883 21st Street, Avalon, $2,295,000, SOLD MLS#: 187352

129 18th Street, Avalon, $2,950,000, SOLD MLS#: 187969

Cape May Lighthouse has stood at the southernmost tip of Cape May County since 1859.  This beautiful  image was captured by talented local photographer Noelle Guest!

THE AVALON HOME AND LAND OWNERS ASSOCIATION will meet at Community Hall on Saturday, April 11, 2020, beginning at 9:30am.  Speaking at 10am will be Joseph Rizzuto, Executive Director of the Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority, and Tom Thornton, Avalon’s Municipal Engineer.  Information tables will be open before and after the speakers.

HAVE A GREAT CAPE MAY COUNTY PHOTOGRAPH?  DoTheShore.com is looking for cover photographs for its upcoming issues!  If you’ve got a showstopper, consider submitting it to the magazine!  Entry guidelines can be found here:  www.dotheshore.com/content/your-photo-could-be-cover-do-shore-magazine

FIREBOAT 13  has been placed in service by the Stone Harbor Volunteer Fire Company.  The 2020 Harborguard vessel has both fire and EMS capabilities, including a 1,000 gallon-per-minute pump, and folding doors allowing patient entry on both sides of the boat.  Fireboat 13 will be docked on a boat lift and available year round.  Thanks to the Stone Harbor Fire Company for the photo and information.

THE BOAT BUILDERS OF SOUTH JERSEY are chronicled in an interesting article by Captain Karl Anderson.  Long-time boaters may remember names such as Post and Pacemaker, and even non-boaters may know of Viking Yachts.  All of them (and more) got their start in South Jersey’s back bays.  Anderson provides a brief history of several South Jersey boat builders here:  http://captkarlanderson.com/uncategorized/the-boat-builders-of-south-jersey/

THE BEST FREE ZOO IN NJ:  The Cape May County Zoo was named the best free zoo in New Jersey by OnlyInYourState.com.  Whether you’re looking for a way to entertain the kids for an hour, or want to spend a day exploring every exhibit and trail, you can’t beat the Cape May County Zoo.  Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.  There are also upgraded experiences that can be added on for a fee.  From lions and tigers to giraffes, birds, and reptiles, you’ll find a little bit of everything!  The zoo is located off Exit 11 of the Garden State Parkway, and is open year-round, except Christmas Day.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• 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
• Lunch and Learn program discussing 101 Great Birds from Around the World presented by Mark Garland, bring your lunch but coffee & dessert will be provided, Wetlands Institute, 11:45AM, Friday, March 13
• Stone Harbor’s Bulk Pick-up, items to curb up to 72 hours prior, pick-up begins on Monday, March 16
• 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
• Avalon Home & Land Owners’ Association Community Connections with speakers & information tables, connect with various civic groups, Borough departments & neighbors, Avalon Community Hall, 9:30AM-Noon, Saturday, April 11
• Avalon Recreation Easter Egg Scramble, 8^th Street Playground & 12^th Street Field, 10AM, 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
• 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)
• Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s Job Fair, 9AM-3PM, Saturday, April 18
• Avalon Garden Club Tree Planting, 77^th & Dune Drive, 10:30AM, Friday, April 24th
• Sea Isle City’s Spring Girls’ Weekend, eat, drink, shop and pamper your way through SIC, 40 businesses participating with huge discounts, Friday-Sunday,  April 24-26

New Listings:

571 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $279,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200987

10800 Third Avenue, Unit B2, Stone Harbor, $685,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200986

558 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon, $874,900, ACTIVE MLS#: 201005

375 21st Street, Avalon, $1,225,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200948

286 44th Street, Avalon, $1,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200931

261 76th Street, Avalon, $1,799,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200991

3208 Ocean Drive, South, Avalon, $1,949,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 201017

7418 Dune Drive, Avalon, $2,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200947

63 W. 31st, Avalon, $2,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200950

9722 First Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200966

Properties Under Contract:

663 21st Street, Unit A, Avalon, $709,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200500

653 21st Street, Unit A, Avalon, $739,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190643

351 96th Street, Unit 408, Stone Harbor, $749,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189387

229 81st Street, #1, Stone Harbor, $899,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190623

148 9th Street, Avalon, $1,450,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200974

298 50th Street, Avalon, $1,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190568

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

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

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

25 and 35 E. 11th Street, Avalon, $4,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200369

Properties Sold:

1678 First Avenue, Unit B, Avalon, $859,000, SOLD MLS#: 189723

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

230 82nd Street, Stone Harbor, $1,201,000, SOLD MLS#: 190844

354 41st Street, Avalon, $1,325,000, SOLD MLS#: 200347

988 First Avenue, Avalon, $1,470,000, SOLD MLS#: 190834

598 22nd Street, Avalon, $1,860,000, SOLD MLS#: 190862

A colorful sky is reflected in the mirror-like bay water during this wintertime sunset.

AVALON has introduced a 2020 municipal budget with no increase in the municipal tax rate—the third year in a row with no increase. Water and sewer rates will remain unchanged for 2020 as well.    The borough also expects to have all long term debt paid off during 2020, utilizing short term financing instead for capital projects.

STONE HARBOR has approved a plan to hire seven full-time firefighter-EMTs to supplement coverage provided by volunteers.  Borough Council unanimously approved the move, which will go into effect in January, 2021, with two members on duty around the clock.  Like other resort towns, Stone Harbor has been facing declining numbers of resident volunteers that have traditionally staffed the fire department.  The department will remain a primarily volunteer operation, with the full-time firefighter-EMTs providing supplemental manpower.

THE CARE FREE BOAT CLUB is expanding its operation to a Sea Isle City location, after opening its Avalon location last year.  The new concept in boating allows club members to enjoy boating without many of the headaches of traditional ownership.  Boaters pay only membership fees and simply reserve time in the vessel of their choice, avoiding the cost of purchasing, maintaining, and storing a boat.

THE WILDWOOD MUSIC FESTIVAL has added Trace Adkins to the list of performers that will participate in the three-day show in June.  The festival will be situated on the beach between amusement piers and in addition to Adkins, will include Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Billy Currington, and many more.  New artists are being announced periodically, with more than thirty slated to perform.

YES, THERE IS AN APP FOR THAT!  If you’ll be purchasing beach tags this season, consider doing it via the Viply app.  Avalon, Stone Harbor, and Sea Isle City beach tags can all be purchased via the app.  The Viply app can be downloaded via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Lunch and Learn program discussing Coral Growth & Acclimation, bring your lunch but coffee & dessert will be provided, Wetlands Institute, 11:45AM, Friday, March 6
• Apple Computer, iPad & iPhone Drop In Tech Workshop, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11:30AM, Saturday, March 7
• The Statue of Liberty Presentation, learn how she was built, what she symbolizes plus a slide show, Avalon History Center, 1-2PM, Saturday, March 7
• 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
• 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)
• Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s Job Fair, 9AM-3PM, Saturday, April 18
• Avalon Garden Club Tree Planting, 77^th & Dune Drive, 10:30AM, Friday, April 24th
• Sea Isle City’s Spring Girls’ Weekend, eat, drink, shop and pamper your way through SIC, 40 businesses participating with huge discounts, Friday-Sunday,  April 24-26

New Listings:

15 99th Street, Unit A, Stone Harbor, $597,500, ACTIVE MLS#: 200907

351 96th Street, #304, Stone Harbor, $665,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200826

351 96th Street, #407, Stone Harbor, $689,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200849

10401 Corinthian Drive, Stone Harbor, $1,299,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200893

13 W. 12th Street, Avalon, $2,095,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200919

24 E. 19th St, Avalon, $2,350,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200921

145 105th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200866

Properties Under Contract:

9501 Sunset Drive, Stone Harbor, $649,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200864

2110 Ocean Drive, Unit B, Avalon, $709,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190407

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

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

53 W. 25th Street, Avalon, $2,390,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200379

4208 Bayberry Drive, Avalon, $2,549,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 186592

121 17th Street, Avalon, $2,749,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200182

238 75th Street, Avalon, $2,895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189199

162 76th Street, Avalon, $2,950,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190581

25 and 35 E. 11th Street, Avalon, $4,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200369

10529 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 189563

Properties Sold:

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

637 21st Street, Avalon, $635,000, SOLD MLS#: 188977

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

281 24th Street, West, Avalon, $860,000, SOLD MLS#: 188837

2048 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,200,000, SOLD MLS#: 200846

10011 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $2,235,000, SOLD MLS#: 190617

Avalon is Cooler By A Mile!  Here’s why: Avalon’s north end projects seaward about a mile further than surrounding beaches, as shown in the photo.  This picture was taken from Strathmere’s beach, looking southwesterly toward Avalon’s north end.  Avalon’s 13^th Street water tower is on the left, and the 38^th Street water tower is on the right.  A stiff westerly breeze is blowing the tops off the waves rolling in toward Strathmere’s beach. 

41 PROPERTIES HAVE ALREADY SETTLED this year, and 54 more are under contract.  Imagine the excitement of knowing summer is on its way, and being able to spend it in your own shore home!  Why not take steps to make YOUR dream happen?  Whether you want a weekend getaway, a luxurious oceanfront, or an income-producing property, there’s something to fit your budget!  Call or email me today!

MORE SEALS have recently been sighted in the back bay waters.  While not common in the area, they’re not uncommon either, and numerous sightings have been reported this winter.  Seals often perch on a dock, the marsh, or the beach to rest, and usually return to the water in a short while.  Never approach a seal as they can cause an injury if they feel threatened.  If in doubt about a seal’s health, report the sighting to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center’s 24-hour hotline at 609-266-0538.

SUNDAYS AT SURFSIDE:  A new concert series has been announced for the 2020 season at Surfside Park in Avalon.  Each Sunday at 7pm popular entertainers will take to the stage, with different themes each week, including Jimmy Buffet, country, Beatlemania, and Irish Night.  All performances are free, so bring your beach chair or blanket and settle in for a great evening of entertainment!

DUNE GRASS PLANTING helps strengthen the dune system, which helps to protect the island in the event of storms.  Avalon’s spring dune grass planting effort is scheduled for Saturday, April 18^th, beginning at 8:30am.  Volunteers should report to Avalon Community Hall at 8:30am for a brief planting demonstration.  Tools specially designed for planting will be distributed.   If you’re interested in volunteering, please RSVP to Chuck McDonnell at Community Hall at 609-967-3066 or Sue Keen at 609-967-5924 in advance.  In the event of rain, the planting session will be held Sunday, April 19^th.

TAKE THE TRIP!  27 year old Vicki Tate says if you’re thinking about a vacation but not quite sure, “Take the trip!”  Her short article appears here:
https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/for-those-of-you-thinking-of-taking-your-family-on-vacation-but-youre-not-100-sure-take-the-trip/  Vicki’s key takeaway?  “Time is precious and we’re not promised tomorrow.”

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Cooking With Carolyn featuring Mardi Gras favorites, Stone Harbor Public Library, 5-7PM, Thursday, February 27
• The Wetlands Institute Covered Dish Dinner, topic for the evening is ‘The Winds of Change’ presented by Guest Speaker Kris Ohleth, the Senior Stockholder Relations Manager with Offshore Orsted, 6-8PM, Friday, February 28
• Genealogy for Beginners with Casey Zahn, research your family history, register at Avalon Free Public Library at 609-967-7155, 11AM-1PM, Saturday, February 29
• Lunch and Learn program discussing Coral Growth & Acclimation, bring your lunch but coffee & dessert will be provided, Wetlands Institute, 11:45AM, Friday, March 6
• Apple Computer, iPad & iPhone Drop In Tech Workshop, Avalon Free Public Library, 10-11:30AM, Saturday, March 7
• The Statue of Liberty Presentation, learn how she was built, what she symbolizes plus a slide show, Avalon History Center, 1-2PM, Saturday, March 7
• 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 Saturday, April 18^th.  RSVP to Chuck McDonnell at 609-967-3066 or Sue Keen at 609-967-5924 to sign up. Rain date is Sunday, April 19

 

New Listings:

227 96th St., Stone Harbor, $595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200759

213 109th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,029,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200745

3864 Dune Drive, Avalon, $1,177,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200727

255 35th Street, East, Avalon, $1,289,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200748

151 33rd Street, Avalon, $1,975,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200742

204 45th Street, Avalon, $2,150,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200812

141 30th Street, Avalon, $2,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200774

65 W. 34th Street, Avalon, $4,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200773

10416 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 200738

Properties Under Contract:

9501 Sunset Drive, Unit 11, Stone Harbor, $680,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200585

2445 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 200286

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

2529 Ocean Drive, East, Avalon, $1,100,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 190379

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

Properties Sold:

700 First Avenue, Unit 412, Avalon, $659,000, SOLD MLS#: 189360

2005 7th Avenue, Avalon, $675,000, SOLD MLS#: 190850

270 82 Street, Stone Harbor, $1,130,000, SOLD MLS#: 190858

1148 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $1,900,000, SOLD MLS#: 189477

179 114th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,950,000, SOLD MLS#: 190663

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