AVALON POLICE TO PARTICIPATE IN DUI PREVENTION CAMPAIGN
(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon Police Chief David Dean announced that the Avalon Police Department will
participate in an impaired driving prevention campaign during March 9th-17th, 2010.
“St. Patrick’s Day includes many special events and parties, but often includes the consumption of alcoholic
beverages”, Dean said. “At times, these celebrations can become dangerous when impaired drivers get
behind the wheel. Avalon will partner with other communities in the state, and around the country, to
make sure that this holiday will be safe for everyone”.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has developed a safety program for local police
departments to implement during the month of March. Statistics clearly show that alcohol plays a major
role in accident-related fatalities on St. Patrick’s Day.
On St. Patrick’s Day, 2008, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had a
blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above, which is the legal threshold in the state of New Jersey and
many other states around the country. In 2008, there were 134 fatal accidents on St. Patrick’s Day; 50 of
them involved at least one driver or motorcyclist who was legally drunk.
Holy Redeemer Food Pantry awards Certificate of Appreciation to Avalon Free Public Library
Avalon- the Avalon Free Public Library (AFPL) has been awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the Holy Redeemer Food Pantry for acting as a donation collection point for the service. Since January of 2009, library patrons have placed donations of non-perishable goods in baskets located in the library’s lobby. AFPL Director, Norman Gluckman, commented, “I am impressed by the generosity of Avalon Library patrons in helping families in need.” The certificate was presented to Gluckman by Jane Thompson, Food Pantry Coordinator. According to Thompson, the Food Pantry served over 8,645 people in 2009; an increase of 41% from 2008. “We cannot thank the Avalon Library and its patrons enough for continually helping us to help others in need. We are deeply touched by their willingness to share so generously in these difficult and unsure economic times”, Thompson said.
Donations of non-perishable goods can be placed in the collection baskets in the lobby of the library, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or dropped off at the food pantry on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon. The food pantry is located behind the Holy Redeemer Rehabilitation Center, 1801 Route 9 North, Cape May Court House and can be reached by calling 609-463-6027.
The Avalon Library received 5 stars in Library Journal’s national rating of public libraries for the second time since February, based on statistical performance data collected by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The library is located at 235 32nd Street and provides free and open access to first class collections, services and programs that inspire, inform and enrich the community. For more information on all library programs, please visit the library website at www.avalonfreelibrary.org.
Photo caption: Jane Thompson, Holy Redeemer Food Pantry and Norm Gluckman, Director of Avalon Free Public Library
AVALON COUNCIL THANKS EMPLOYEES, VOLUNTEERS FOR EFFORTS Many recognized for outstanding efforts during February 2010 blizzards
(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Borough Council took time to thank dozens of employees and volunteers for their outstanding efforts during two blizzards that put more than two feet of snow on Avalon during February, 2010.
Group photo of volunteers and employees of the Borough of Avalon who contributed to the rescue/recovery/cleanup efforts during the recent winter storms.
Avalon Borough Council President Chuck Covington began the council meeting on Wednesday evening, February 24th, by thanking Avalon employees and volunteers for their outstanding efforts during the two snowstorms that resulted in power outages that lasted for several days in the community. Among the groups that Covington recognized: Avalon Department of Public Works, Avalon EMS/Rescue, Avalon Volunteer Fire Department, and the Avalon Police Department. He also took time to recognize an effort to evacuate nearly two dozen residents to the Woodbine Developmental Center at the height of the storm. The center was opened by the county to assist Avalon residents who had no power and heat.
AHLOA President Michael Matt
thanking the Avalon Borough Council.
Residents also came to the council meeting to express their thanks for the spirit of volunteerism that enabled Avalon residents to safely get through these difficult storms. Avalon Home and Land Owners Association President Michael Matt addressed council and thanked the Borough for a job well done. Matt also read into the record a letter he wrote to area newspapers to show AHLOA’s gratitude to the Borough. The letter read, in part:
“…Advance preparation, foresight, smooth execution, and outstanding communication all came together to make what had the potential to unfold in tragedy, into merely an unavoidable inconvenience….We are very thankful for the professionalism and dedication displayed when the chips were down, and fully recognize our good-fortune to reside in such a well-run town”.
Covington and the rest of Borough council also thanked the efforts of Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi, who also serves Avalon as its Emergency Management Coordinator. Pagliughi spent the first big weekend of the blizzard volunteering at the Avalon Fire Department, where he continually assessed the damage in the town and coordinated evacuation efforts for people in need.
DEBUTTS HONORED FOR DEVELOPING FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINING GUIDE
Pictured: Harry DeButts (left) receives the
Atlantic County Municipal JIF award from Avalon
Volunteer Fire Department Chief Ed Dean.
(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Borough Council formally recognized longtime Avalon employee Harry DeButts
for earning a major award from the Atlantic County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund.
DeButts developed a training guide for the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department that educates firefighters on the proper use and handling of vital firefighting apparatus. DeButts used his military experience to pattern the training guide after similar guides that are used to train soldiers. The new training guide uses plenty of graphics and assists new firefighters when they begin to train on the apparatus. The process includes
actual education on what the equipment is used for, and explains every specific part of the equipment. A manual detailing the operations of the fire boat used by the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department was the first step; the three-year project will eventually include all of the equipment used by the fire department.
“Everyone at the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department deeply appreciates the training guide developed by Harry”, said Avalon Fire Chief Ed Dean. “Harry volunteered to put this guide together on his own time, and eventually both novice and veteran firefighters will be expected to read each chapter of the guide, and pass a test at the end of each chapter”.
“The biggest value of the guide is to standardize the way everyone trains on our apparatus”, Dean continued. “The guide shows everyone how the fire department expects everyone to use every piece of equipment. Harry’s guide is very easy to understand, and graphically intense for better retention”.
The Atlantic County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund had 17 applications for the awards, and four were granted, including the one earned by DeButts. DeButts currently serves the Borough in the Office of Emergency Management, and is a beach and dune specialist. DeButts volunteers as a safety officer for the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department as well.
AVALON COUNCIL AWARDS CONTRACT FOR BEACH FILL
(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Borough Council formally awarded a contract for an emergency beach fill project
that will be conducted this spring in the resort. The contract was awarded to Great Lakes Dredge and Dock
Company, LLC of Oak Brook, Illinois.
“I am very pleased that this emergency beach fill project will move forward”, said Avalon Mayor Martin
Pagliughi. “A beach fill for the north end of Avalon is desperately needed following the repeated
nor’easters that have impacted our community”.
Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company was the low bidder for the project. Bids were unsealed on
January 8th, and Great Lakes submitted the low bid for the emergency beach fill project, which will be
conducted jointly between Avalon and Sea Isle City. The total bid for the project is $10.406 million;
Avalon has authorized just under $4.5 million for its share of the emergency beach fill.
The agreement between Avalon and Sea Isle City will result in shared mobilization costs and each
community paying for the sand that is pumped onto their local beaches. Avalon’s beach fill will stretch
from 9th Street south to 26th Street. The emergency beach fill project will occur this spring, and be
completed before the heart of the summer tourism season. Avalon is expected to receive approximately
500,000 cubic yards of sand during this beach fill. The cost for each cubic yard of sand is $7.02.
Both communities have applied for necessary permits from state and federal agencies for the project to
move forward. Avalon and Sea Isle City will finance the cost of the beach fill project with local dollars and
seek reimbursements.
SHOPPERS UNITE: AVALON MERCHANTS ANNOUNCE SHOPOHOLICS 2010 7MBCA presents weekend of shopping under one roof
(Avalon, NJ)—The largest winter shopping event on the 7 Mile Island will take place under one roof the weekend of Saturday, March 6th-7thth. The annual “Shop-a-holics Weekend” will be held inside the Princeton Bar and Grill, 2008 Dune Drive, Avalon, New Jersey on Saturday from 10:00am-5:00pm, and Sunday, 12:00pm-3:00pm.
“We are very excited about this year’s event”, said Kathy Wierzbicki, organizer of the event and Board member of the 7 Mile Business Community Association, which sponsors the event. “Shop-a-holics Weekend 2010 will present the largest variety of merchandise in one location, and at tremendous discounts”.
The theme for this year’s event will be “Designers, Deals, and Drinks” and will feature nearly 20 retail businesses from the 7 Mile Beach inside The Princeton. The public will be able to shop for new merchandise priced with deep discounts, and talk with the shop owners themselves before they make their purchases. Some new merchandise left over from 2009, along with brand new merchandise debuting in 2010, will be part of Shop-a-holics Weekend. The very best 7 Mile Island boutiques will be showcasing clothing, house wares, shoes, accessories, and more.
The Princeton will also be serving food and drinks for visitors. Admission is free; guests are encouraged to bring full-sized personal care item that will be donated to CARA, the Coalition Against Rape and Abuse.
Local radio station WCZT-FM 98.7..the Coast will be broadcasting live from “Shop-a-holics Weekend” on Saturday, March 6th, from 10:00am-Noon with radio personality Susie Mac.
AHLOA TO HOST ‘COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS’ IN AVALON APRIL 10TH
(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Home and Land Owners Association (AHLOA) will host its 3nd Annual “Community Connections” event at the Avalon Community Hall, 30th and the Beach in Avalon, on Saturday, April 10th from 9:30-Noon.
“We are very excited to bring the entire Avalon community together for this important event”, said Community Connections Committee Chairperson, Sue Ellenberg. “Last year’s event was a big success with several hundred people in attendance. Residents and summer visitors from Avalon told us that they were very appreciative for all of the public information that was provided during our ‘Community Connections’ event”.
The entire event is free, and designed to provide information to the Avalon community about different organizations, events, charitable work, and activities in Avalon. To optimize the quieter listening environment, the “Hot Topics” presentation will be presented first from 9:30 – 10:30 am. However, dozens of local organizations will have display tables during the “Community Connections” event and have representatives and materials available for the public 10:30 am to noon.
One of the highlights of the event is the “Hot Topics” presentation where topics of mass appeal are presented by experts in their respective fields. Some of the “Hot Topics” that will be presented this year include:
* Avalon‘s Green Team Programs
*2010 Beach Replenishment Project
*Dune Vegetation Management Project
*Public services, cultural programs, and environmental money saving tips
Also during this year’s “Community Connections”, visitors are being encouraged to bring non-perishable food items that will be donated to food banks located in Cape May County. “We believe this is very important this year to help our friends and neighbors during a time of need”, Ellenberg said. “The county’s unemployment rate has increased this year, and we know Avalon residents will want to step up and help locals who could use a little extra assistance this year”.
Attendees will also be encouraged to bring their unwanted cell phones to “Community Connections”. The Borough of Avalon has kicked off a local “Cell Phones for Soldiers” effort that collects cell phones that are no longer needed. This effort allows members of the United States military to communicate with their families while they are overseas. The donation box is located in the AHLOA table at the entrance of the Community Hall.
AHLOA is a non-profit community organization with a mission to enhance the environmental, economic and social values of the residency in the Borough of Avalon. To accomplish this, the Association regularly consults with the membership and Borough Officials to advocate programs that improve the quality of life in the community. In a sense, AHLOA is the “eyes and ears of the community” while most of Avalon’s home owners are out of town. The AHLOA Community Connections event, its Annual Meeting, the newsletter, website (www.ahloa.com), and meetings are methods the Association uses to communicate information to its 1800 members.
Receive the latest Avalon information for the upcoming summer season at the AHLOA Community Connections, April 10, 2010 from 9:30-Noon, in the Avalon Community Hall.
AVALON TO HOLD 15th ANNUAL COMMUNITY-WIDE YARD SALE
(Avalon, NJ)--Those who love yard sales won’t want to miss Avalon’s 15th Annual Community-Wide Yard Sale which will be held on Saturday, May 8th, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine. Last year the community-wide yard sale was a huge success with over 125 participants.
Beginning at 8:00 a.m. on the day of the sale, yard sale buffs may stop by the Avalon Community Hallat 30th Street & the beach to obtaina listing of the addresses of sale participants and a map of Avalon. Posters will be displayed in the yards of sale participants.
The purpose of the sale, sponsored by the Avalon Garden Club, is to raise money for Avalon beautification projects from the $10 authorization fee, which entitles homeowners to hold a yardsale. Of course, yard sale participants keep any money they make from their sales.
Avalon property owners may obtain an application to participate in the community-wide yard sale at the Chamber of Commerce, any bank or real estate in Avalon. They should then take the completed form and $10 fee to the Avalon Chamber of Commerce Information Center to obtain a yard sale poster.
At the conclusion of the yard sale, Avalon residents may place any unsold or unwanted items at the curb, no later than 7:00 a.m., Monday, May 10th, 2010, for the borough’s semi-annual bulk trash pickup.
VOLUNTEERS ARE INVITED TO HELP PLANT DUNE GRASS IN AVALON
(Avalon, NJ) - Volunteers are invited to help plant dune grass on Saturday, April 17th, 2010. Everyone is welcome to participate in this important project.
Volunteers should report to the Avalon Community Hall at 30th Street and Avalon Avenue at 8:30am, where donuts and coffee will be served. A brief demonstration on planting will be given. Special designed tools for planting the dune grass will be provided. All volunteers will then be transported to the planting sites by Avalon Borough trucks. A complimentary lunch will be served at Noon at Avalon Community Hall. If there is still planting that has not been accomplished, planting will resume after lunch for those who can continue to plant dune grass.
In the event of rain, the dune grass planting will be postponed until Sunday, April 18th, 2010.
AVALON COUNCIL RECOGNIZES TWO EMPLOYEES FOR ACHIEVEMENTS
(Avalon, NJ) - The Avalon Borough Council recognized two longtime employees for their individual achievements during the regularly scheduled council meeting on Wednesday, January 27th, 2010.
Stephen Camp was recognized for attaining a Certified Public Works Manager’s designation. Camp works for the Avalon Department of Public Works. Joseph P. Breslin Jr. was also honored for attaining the Certified Municipal Court Administrator’s designation. Breslin works in Avalon’s violations bureau, and is a former member of Borough Council.
Avalon Council President Charles Covington commended both individuals for their hard work and dedication to the Borough of Avalon.
AVALON MAYOR PRESENTS PROCLAMATION TO LOCAL RESTAURANT Maggie’s Restaurant recognized for 20th Anniversary
(Avalon, NJ) - One of the most popular restaurants in Avalon was formally recognized for its 20th anniversary on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010. Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi presented an official proclamation to Maggie’s Restaurant, located at 2619 Dune Drive in Avalon.
“Maggie’s Restaurant is one of the reasons why Avalon is a great place to live, and a great place to vacation”, Pagliughi said. “For 20 years, Maggie’s has been the first choice for countless families who want to enjoy great food in a friendly atmosphere”.
Maggie’s Restaurant was established by Marge and Dan Szarek, and is well known on the 7 Mile Beach for homemade turkey, numerous breakfast choices, and catering. Maggie’s is also known for its selection of “No Whining” shirts that are worn by employees.
The proclamation reads in part:
“Marge and Dan’s restaurant has always been available for civic activities, church functions and Borough events, demonstrating their community dedication. Maggie and her staff always welcome customers with a warm smile and Maggie herself takes a very real interest in her patrons with sincerity and kindness….I, Martin L. Pagliughi, Mayor of Avalon, do hereby deem it an honor to extend my personal congratulations to Marge and Dan Szarek, owners of Maggie’s Restaurant for their 20 years of hard work and devotion as members of the business community in the Borough of Avalon”.
MEDIA ADVISORY: AVALON MAYOR TO MEET WITH SEN. MENENDEZ STAFF
Mayor to discuss need for federal beach replenishment funding, impact on tourism
(Avalon, NJ) - Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi will be meeting with representatives from United States Senator Robert Menendez’ office on Wednesday, January 20th to discuss the need for federal beach replenishment funding to be directed towards Avalon and other coastal New Jersey communities.
“The need has never been greater along our southern New Jersey coastline for the federal and state governments to step up to the plate and make a commitment to our beaches”, Pagliughi said. “I’m very appreciative that Senator Menendez’ staff will visit Avalon for a first-hand look, and explanation, at the emergency that exists along our beachfront”.
Sen. Menendez’ staff will be participating in a “Constituent Day” at the office of State Senator Jeff Van Drew on January 20th, at 11:00am. Avalon’s meeting will precede the “Constituent Day” event, and will include: Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi, Avalon Council President Charles Covington; Avalon Business Administrator Andrew Bednarek; Avalon Borough Engineer Tom Thornton; Cape May County Tourism Director Diane Weiland; and Cape May County Chamber of Commerce President Vicki Clark. Sen. Menendez will be represented by Ryan J. Carbain.
Mayor Pagliughi will present a brief power point to explain the need for beach nourishment in Avalon, and initiate discussion on federal policy relating to beach projects.
Avalon has partnered with neighboring Sea Isle City on a shared services agreement that will result in a major joint beach fill effort in spring, 2010, to repair damage incurred during repeated coastal storms during the fall, 2009
WHO: The Borough of Avalon
WHAT: Will host a meeting with the office of Senator Robert Menendez
WHEN: Wednesday, January 20th, 10:00am
WHERE: Avalon Borough Hall council meeting room, 3100 Dune Drive, Avalon NJ
TOPIC: Beach funding, and how it relates to the economy of Cape May County and the success of tourism
SECTION OF AVALON BOARDWALK TO BE RE-DECKED IN 2010
Avalon Public Works to rebuild boardwalk near Avalon Community Hall
(Avalon, NJ) - A section of Avalon’s boardwalk will be re-decked, starting on Tuesday, January 19th, 2010. Avalon Acting Public Works Director Bill Macomber reports that the boardwalk work will take place from the Avalon Community Hall south to 32nd Street.
“This is a continuation of the boardwalk project conducted by the Avalon Department of Public Works in 2009”, Macomber said. “We want to make the public aware that during this construction phase, that section of the boardwalk will be closed in order to safely do the work. The result will be a fresh, new pine wood surface on the boardwalk near Community Hall that the public will be able to enjoy for many years to come”.
The reconstruction work on this section of the Avalon Boardwalk will be finished sometime in mid-spring, 2010. The entire project will be conducted by the Avalon Department of Public Works. Avalon’s boardwalk is used by thousands of pedestrians everyday during the summertime. Bicycles are permitted on the boardwalk during the summer from 6:00am-10:00am daily.
Avalon- the Avalon Free Public Library (AFPL) has been awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the Holy Redeemer Food Pantry for acting as a donation collection point for the service. Since January of 2009, library patrons have placed donations of non-perishable goods in baskets located in the library’s lobby. AFPL Director, Norman Gluckman, commented, “I am impressed by the generosity of Avalon Library patrons in helping families in need.” The certificate was presented to Gluckman by Jane Thompson, Food Pantry Coordinator. According to Thompson, the Food Pantry served over 8,645 people in 2009; an increase of 41% from 2008. “We cannot thank the Avalon Library and its patrons enough for continually helping us to help others in need. We are deeply touched by their willingness to share so generously in these difficult and unsure economic times”, Thompson said.
(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Home and Land Owners Association (AHLOA) will host its 3nd Annual “Community Connections” event at the Avalon Community Hall, 30th and the Beach in Avalon, on Saturday, April 10th from 9:30-Noon.
(Avalon, NJ) - One of the most popular restaurants in Avalon was formally recognized for its 20th anniversary on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010. Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi presented an official proclamation to Maggie’s Restaurant, located at 2619 Dune Drive in Avalon.
