When a new business opens on the island, and boldly proclaims their plan to stay open year-round, the local residents shrug.  We have heard it many times before…only to see the “Closed” sign on the door by late October.

Our pessimism is based on experience.  Yet, is that pessimism also contributing to the winter closure?

Obviously it’s a supply/demand issue (especially with restaurants).  Cape May manages to reach beyond its town borders to attract patrons…shouldn’t Avalon and Stone Harbor be able to do the same?

This subject is on my mind because of recent visits to The Reeds.  The owners are making an effort to attract the “winter crowd” with a reasonable bar menu and lunch specials.  Like Congress Hall in Cape May, they hope to become the town “living room” in the off season.

So this is my low key plug for all of the island businesses that stay with us year round.  We will show our appreciation, and spread the word.