I am proud to support Brendan’s Fund. This local organization provides financial and emotional assistance to Cape May County families coping with pediatric cancer. The Surf Memorial is next Saturday- and a full week’s worth of events starting tonight (see web site or posters in local businesses for more details).
Join in…it’s an expectionally worthy cause.
 Even if you don’t live on the bay- there are opportunities to enjoy the calm (and usually warmer) back bay waterways. Avalon and Stone Harbor have several public docks. The easiest for parking: Avalon Bay Park with a fishing/crabbing dock on 53rd Street, and swimming dock/ kayak launch area on 57th Street. Other docks: 8th Street, over the 21st and 25th Street bridges, 23rd Street, 81st Street, 83rd Street, and 113th Street.
Tide schedule available on Avalon Anchorage Marina’s web site: http://www.avalonanchorage.com/
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.
 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 🙂
 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
 Escape the heat this weekend, and enjoy the cool sea breeze at the shore! Today was my 1st full “beach day”, including a long walk to the Windrift for lunch on the upper deck. Perfect…Â
2 oppportunities to walk through special homes along the Seven Mile Beach:
This Saturday, 6/7, the Garden Club of Stone Harbor- Annual Home Tour (609) 368-5692 for tickets.
Next Saturday, 6/14, The Historical Society Tour- contact the Avalon Museum (609) 967-0090 for tickets.
Oh wait…that’s March, not May.
  
 This afternoon’s storm caused some excitement on the island- including a tornado watch. Thankfully, just heavy rain and a quick moving thunderstorm to interupt the day. Not to worry- tomorrow is June 1st- and the sun will be back out!
 Great weekend…a bit windy on the beach, but we managed! A successful start of the 2008 summer season.
Enjoyed my 1st creme-filled donut of the season…still warm after my walk back from Kohler’s to the office. I know it has zero nutritional value…but it’s a long standing summer tradition.
Looking forward to the Symphony by the Sea this evening at Avalon Elementary School. This event is sponsored by the Avalon Performing Arts Council and the Avalon Free Library.
On Monday, there will be a parade and Memorial Day Ceremony at Veteran’s Plaza on 21st Street in Avalon. In Stone Harbor watch the parade on 96th Street at noon, followed by an open house at the American Legion building on 117th Street.