 The weather was a bit unsettled and cool this morning, but it turned into a beautiful beach day. The Stone Harbor fireworks started promptly at 9pm with light rain…and a soaking rain by the time we were walking home!
Fireworks again tomorrow night on the 30th Street beach in Avalon. Enjoy the holiday weekend 🙂
  A great weekend…perfect beach days and cool nights.
 The Avalon Islandman Triathlon was held Sunday – 334 men and women (ranging in age from 13 to 67!) participated in the event. An additional 198 children (ages 7 through 14) competed in the Kid’s Triathlon. The ocean was cold and rough…but the racers enjoyed the challenge.Â
See race results: http://www.lin-mark.com/
The Avalon Beach Patrol, Borough of Avalon employees, Avalon Fire and Rescue, and local residents generously gave their time (over 200 volunteers in all). Funds raised will be donated to local organizations.
     The beach and the ocean are a hit!  More family members arrive today to enjoy a week at the shore.Â
Avalon and Stone Harbor have many events scheduled this weekend and next to celebrate the 4th of July. Watch the Triathlon Sunday morning (Avalon Community Hall on 30th Street)- the adults start at 7am- and the kid’s race at 9am.Â
The weekly Stone Harbor farmer’s market will be open Sunday in the water tower parking lot (95th Street)- 8am to 11am. Avalon’s Street Faire is today on 30th Street. Check out the Chamber web sites for more information.
The dredge is here and work is scheduled to start today.Â
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/181/story/189623.html
See related article in today’s edition of The Atlantic City Press.
 The Colorado Delaney’s arrive this week to the beach! They are still experiencing snow showers, so warm weather and long beach days are on their wish list.
“Nan and Pop” are very excited!
http://www.capemaycountyherald.com
See article in the Cape May County Herald regarding the emergency beach fill agreement for Avalon’s north end. The project could start as early as next week.
 The air temperature was at least 10 degrees cooler as I reached the beach path this morning for my walk- proof that “Cooler by a Mile” is more than just a catchy slogan. Looks like a perfect beach day for the many visitors scheduled to arrive today for their vacation.
 This is one our beautiful landmarks on the island. A huge beach front parcel used as a summer retreat house for the Sister Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.  I have fond memories of this property- my aunt was an IHM sister and spent time here each summer on retreat, and for a few years, as Mother Superior.
I am fortunate to live near this grand estate built 71 years ago. It’s the only beach side street lined with practical small cars (many with Immaculata stickers)…no BMW’s on this block!Â
Villa Maria is supported by private donors- with a major fund raiser each September. The Nun’s Beach Surfing Contest/ Dinner is a true community event, and great fun. Or, stop by the “garage shop” on 111th and Second Avenue for a wide selection of “Nun’s Beach” wear.Â
As an aside, because I walk along the beach in this area, I have been mistaken for one of the nuns.  Maybe it’s the short hair and my Irish heritage…or it’s time to update my walking attire :) Â
Even bigger, and better than the 1st parking on the sidewalk story (see Sunday’s post)…this time starring a Hummer:
   Unbelievable…..
Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary- walking paths
The walking paths are partially completed, and the benches and flower gardens look beautiful. Next on the plan- attracting more species of birds!
It’s worth a visit- even if to just appreciate the 6 block span left undeveloped on an island of expensive real estate.