AVALON

2012 SUMMER NEWS

Current News Summer 2012
Fall & Winter 2011-2012

AVALON UNVEILS NEW WEBSITE FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Site dedicated towards informing, educating the public about various storms and other emergencies

(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Office of Emergency Management unveiled a brand new emergency management website for the Borough of Avalon during the Avalon Council meeting held on Wednesday, August 8th. The website’s url is www.avalonemergency.org. The site was developed by Joyce Media Web Design.

“We learned during recent blizzards and last year’s evacuation necessitated by Hurricane Irene that it is very important to provide a single source of information during a major event”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. “This new website does just that. It not only informs the public about various storm and emergency events in Avalon, it also provides a high level of education so our residents and visitors know what to do before a major event occurs”.

The new www.avalonemergency.org website will be used to notify the public about any emergent storm condition that impacts the Borough including severe thunderstorms, coastal flooding, blizzards, hurricanes and other weather events. It will also be used to notify the public about other non-weather related emergencies that exist in the Borough, including missing persons or issues involving the ocean and beachfront. The website will be continually updated by the Avalon Office of Emergency Management through the conclusion of the emergency event.

The Avalon Emergency Management website provides links for information including:

-Storm and weather related information including radar, forecasts, bulletins, and Avalon tide information
-Important contact information for various Borough departments and utility companies that service Avalon
-Links to various traditional media outlets where residents can access updated storm information along with instant access to Borough communications including 1630AM radio, and ShoreTV Channel 2
-Comprehensive details about Avalon’s own emergency management plan including information about the Borough’s own designated shelter with directions
-County evacuation maps and Avalon-specific flood map
-Atlantic City Electric’s power outage map, and a link to traffic information throughout the state of New Jersey
-An interactive portal where residents and visitors can communicate with the Borough about storm issues in their neighborhood with the ability to send emergency management photos and videos that they capture

In addition, www.avalonemergency.org includes links to many government websites that are designed to educate and inform residents about how to develop an emergency plan for their households. Information includes: Preparation of a supply and evacuation kit; care of the elderly, disabled, and pets; protecting your documents; and information about Avalon’s own Pet Evacuation Shelter.

During a major storm event or evacuation, www.avalonemergency.org will override the Borough’s regular website, www.avalonboro.org.

AVALON TO RECEIVE MAJOR BEACH FILL FOR THE NORTH END
Federal beach fill project funded 100% by the federal government

(Avalon, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon will receive a major beach fill project for the north end of the community between in fall, 2012. This beach fill project will be fully funded by the United States Army Corps of Engineers to restore beaches that were damaged by the August, 2011 arrival of Hurricane Irene along the New Jersey coastline. The beach fill project is expected to occur between the 10th Street and 20th Street beaches.

“We have worked with the federal and state governments to secure this beach fill project for the north end of our community”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. “The timing of the beach fill comes at an ideal time, right before the start of the late fall and winter storm season. The beach fill will provide a greater level of protection for our community”.

This proposed emergency federal beach fill in Avalon will restore the beaches in these four blocks to pre-August 2011 conditions. The project calls for a base bid of 75,000 cubic yards of sand to be placed on the beach front between 10th Street and 20th Street where beach erosion occurred during Hurricane Irene. An alternate bid associated with the project could result in as much as 190,000 cubic yards of sand to be placed in this same area.

“The first line of defense against any coastal storm is the beachfront”, Pagliughi said. “This beach fill will ensure that the north end of Avalon has a greater level of protection in advance of the busy North Atlantic storm season”. This emergency beach fill project will also include neighboring Stone Harbor.

Before the summer, the Borough of Avalon financed a backpassing beach fill project that resulted in sand from the south end of the community being relocated to its point of origin in the north end of town. That project provided a protective and recreational beach in advance of the summer tourism season.

The Borough is also exploring the possibility of an additional beach nourishment operation in the coming months. The United States Army Corps of Engineers is planning on a hydraulic backpassing operation on the Avalon beachfront that would occur sometime after the Corps completes the hydraulic beach fill in the fall.

AVALON OPENS COOLING CENTERS FOR ANOTHER WEEK OF SUMMER HEAT

(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Office of Emergency Management is again activating its cooling centers at three buildings in order to provide the public with some air conditioned comfort and a break from another heat wave that will grip the Borough and the rest of South Jersey this week.

Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi announced that the cooling centers will be located at Avalon Borough Hall, 3100 Dune Drive, Avalon; the Avalon Free Public Library, located on Ocean Drive directly behind Avalon Borough Hall; and Avalon Community Hall, at 30th Street and the beach. All three buildings will provide air conditioning and cold bottled water for any resident or visitor who needs to escape the hot weather.

The National Weather Service predicts daytime high temperatures to reach the mid to upper 90s Tuesday through Thursday, July 17th through the 19th. The heat index all three days is expected to be near or exceed 100 degrees. A heat index of 104 is currently in the forecast for Wednesday, July 18th.

If you have any emergency during this hot spell, please dial 9-1-1.

The combination of high temperatures and high humidity will create a dangerous situation which heat illnesses are likely. Drink plenty of fluids... stay in an air-conditioned room... stay out of the sun... and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. If possible, reschedule strenuous activity to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

Never leave any person or animal in a parked vehicle.

AVALON CREATES DONATION PROGRAM FOR 9/11 MEMORIAL PLAZA
Plaza to be finished by September 11th, 2012; features I-beam from World Trade Center

(Avalon, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon has created a donation program that will support the construction of the Borough’s new September 11th Memorial Plaza that is currently being constructed at Veterans Plaza at 21st Street and Dune Drive. The Memorial Plaza will feature a 9’11” tall steel beam that was salvaged from the World Trade Center in New York City.

“We have experienced a very high level of interest from individuals and businesses who want to support this very honorable and reflective memorial plaza in Avalon”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. “We are privileged to have acquired this artifact from the World Trade Center site and honored to be able to present a memorial plaza that will pay tribute the victims and first responders in behalf of Avalon and our entire region”.

The new donation program is being coordinated by the Friends of the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., a 501(c)3 organization. All donations provided to this organization in behalf of the September 11th Memorial Plaza will be used to defray construction and material costs associated with the project. Those who offer a tax-deductible sponsorship will receive a listing on the permanent plaza entry signage at the plaza.

The new September 11th Memorial Plaza was designed by Scott Taylor from Taylor Design Group in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. It will be located one block north of Veterans Plaza on Dune Drive in Avalon. The focal point of the plaza will be a 1,800 pound steel I-beam artifact recovered from the site of Ground Zero at the World Trade Center in New York City. Avalon secured the artifact from the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey during September, 2011.

The proposed plaza includes a scored concrete walkway that leads visitors to a circular walking area that includes a small wall that will include subtle bronze lettering that reads “..all that is good will endure”. Bronze shadow inlays will depict the timeline of the major events on September 11th, 2001. Those events will be set in the pavement to correspond with the shadow pattern cast by the I-beam on September 11th of each year.

The artifact from the World Trade Center will stand 9’-11” tall, and will respectfully lean at an angle of nine degrees and eleven minutes towards Manhattan. The circular wall that surrounds the I-beam will be located 9’-11” away from the artifact itself. The wall will be sloped to represent the ebb and flow of life, love, and water.

Additional features of the September 11th Memorial Plaza include ground set-up lights that will shine at the plaza during the evening hours. An interpretive sign will be welcome visitors to the plaza to educate the public about the timeline of events on that fateful day and also serve as recognition for benefactors who have made the plaza possible.

Call (609) 967-7057 with any additional questions.

AVALON RECEIVES DONATION OF HANDICAPPED BEACH CHAIR

(Avalon, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon has received a generous donation of a brand new handicapped beach chair that will enable handicapped individuals to enjoy a day at the beach in Avalon. The presentation was made on Friday, July 6th by Bob Clark, owner of Avalon Hardware, to Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi.

“I want to personally thank Bob and Avalon Hardware for purchasing this special chair for our community”, Mayor Pagliughi said. “This chair will help even those with the most challenging physical limitations to have complete access to the Avalon beachfront”.

Avalon Hardware ordered the beach chair from a company called Natural Access, which produces the line of Landeez chairs. The chairs are specifically designed to provide safety and comfort for individuals with severe physical limitations. The chair easily glides over sand, wet sand, gravel, and even snow and ice. The chair comes with safety and comfort features including support belts, positioning wedges, high backrest, H-harness, and secure headrest. It is constructed with marine-grade stainless steel. Natural Access has been manufacturing the Landeez chairs since 1993 and many of the original models are still in use today.

Avalon currently offers 13 surf chairs to the public for free at 9th Street, 30th Street, and 80th Street. The chairs were originally purchased through an initiative by the Avalon Civic Club. This Landeez chair will be added to the inventory to assist paraplegics and others with severe physical handicaps. It will be available during the summertime at 30th Street. During the offseason, the chair will be kept at the Avalon Rescue Squad for potential use during winter storms and other events. The Avalon Beach Patrol can be reached at (609) 967-7587 to reserve these special chairs offered by the Borough of Avalon.
AVALON PLAYERS TO PRESENT “SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL” IN AUGUST

(Avalon, NJ)—Following is historical information about the Avalon Players. Avalon Players will present “Seussical the Musical” August 2nd-5th at the Avalon Elementary School. Please see the poster for additional information.

In 1968 Dennis Soens, Bonnie Matt and Ginny Lynch asked the mayor of Avalon if they could use Community Hall to put on a show. The mayor approved, and the dramatic ensemble Avalon Players was born, taking the stage in its first production, A Taste of Broadway.

The following summer a flyer was circulated announcing auditions, and to everyone’s surprise, hundreds of children appeared! No one was turned away; each child was given a part in the show. This tradition continues today with over 60 children from the South Jersey area ranging in age from 6 to 16 all being cast to perform on stage.

Avalon Players fondest hope is to continue to provide the youth of South Jersey with an introductory vehicle to the theatre arts. Our love for the theatre is fostered by those who have participated in, learned from, and experienced the feeling of accomplishment and self-satisfaction at the end of each summer’s production.

This year we will be performing Seussical the Musical on August 2nd, 3rd and 4th at 7:00 pm and August 5th at 5:00 pm at the Avalon Elementary School. All tickets are general admission and can be purchased in advance at the Elementary School on Tuesday, July 31st from 6-8pm for $7 or at the door for $8.

More information can be found on our website, www.AvalonPlayers.org
EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING FOR AVALON, STORMS LIKELY SUNDAY EVENING



(Avalon, NJ)—The National Weather Service has posted an Excessive Heat Warning for the Borough of Avalon and surrounding communities for Saturday, July 7th from 12 Noon until 8:00pm. Daytime temperatures both Saturday and Sunday are expected to reach the 90s with some 100 degree readings possible. The heat index could reach 110 degrees in some parts of our region during the weekend.

Saturday’s forecast calls for sunshine and high temperatures in the 90s with the heat index approaching 100 degrees. Temperatures will warm up on Sunday with a forecast heat index of 102 degrees. The heat wave is expected to break on Sunday evening when a front pushes through our region that could bring showers and drenching thunderstorms. The National Weather Service believes the Excessive Heat Warning may be needed for Sunday if thunderstorms are delayed for much of the daytime hours on Sunday.

During the weekend, the Borough of Avalon will maintain cooling centers at both the Avalon Free Public Library on Ocean Drive behind Avalon Borough Hall; another cooling center is available at the Avalon Department of Recreation at 30th Street and the beach. Residents and visitors who need to escape the heat and enjoy air conditioned comfort may visit either location.

Here is the text of the Excessive Heat Warning posted by the National Weather Service, along with common sense tips to cool off this weekend. If you go to the beach, please pay close attention to any instructions provided by the Avalon Beach Patrol.

... Excessive heat warning in effect from noon to 8 PM EDT
Saturday...

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued an
excessive heat warning... which is in effect from noon to 8 PM EDT
Saturday. The excessive heat watch is no longer in effect.

* Heat index values... to around 110 due to temperatures around 100
and dewpoints in the lower 70s. The low temperature Saturday
night should be 75 to 80.

* Warning extension... if thunderstorms are delayed on Sunday...
temperatures would be warmer than the currently forecast mid
90s and might require an extension of the warning into Sunday.

e--


* Impacts... the heat can be dangerous... especially for the
elderly... infirm... the very Young... and those in inner city
areas that do not have air conditioning. Pets also are
susceptible to the heat as is anyone working or exercising
outdoors during the afternoon.

Precautionary/preparedness actions...

An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of
dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot
temperatures and high humidity will create a dangerous situation
in which heat illnesses are likely. Drink plenty of fluids... stay
in an air-conditioned room... stay out of the sun... and check up
on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible... reschedule strenuous activity to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when
possible and drink plenty of water.

Never leave any person or animal in a parked vehicle!

To reduce risk during outdoor work... the occupational safety and
health administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks
in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by
heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke
is an emergency - call 9 1 1.


MAYOR MARTIN PAGLIUGHI SWEARS IN NEW DIRECTORS OF AVALON CHAMBER

Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi swore in a new president and new directors for the Avalon Chamber of Commerce. Local realtor John O’Dea is the new president of the Avalon Chamber of Commerce; local businessman Casey O’Hara is the Vice President. The Avalon Chamber of Commerce building is located on the northeast corner of 30th Street and Ocean Drive.


Mayor Pagliughi swears in chamber president John O'Dea


AVALON COUNCILMAN JOSEPH TIPPING BECOMES COUNCIL PRESIDENT

AVALON COUNCIL REORGANIZES; TIPPING COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Avalon Councilman Joseph Tipping was unanimously selected as the new Council President for the Borough of Avalon. The Avalon Borough Council reorganized on Tuesday, July 3rd and Tipping (center) was selected as Council President. Councilman Dave Ellenberg (second from left) was selected to be the new Council Vice President. Both terms are for one year.

For two other photos with Mayor Pagliughi, headline and caption:
PHOTO: MAYOR MARTIN PAGLIUGHI SWEARS IN NEW DIRECTORS OF AVALON CHAMBER
Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi swore in a new president and new directors for the Avalon Chamber of Commerce. Local realtor John O’Dea is the new president of the Avalon Chamber of Commerce; local businessman Casey O’Hara is the Vice President. The Avalon Chamber of Commerce building is located on the northeast corner of 30th Street and Ocean Drive.

AVALON PERFORMING ARTS COUNCIL ANNOUNCES ART SHOW & SALE WINNERS

Avalon, NJ, June 28, 2012. APAC is pleased to announce the winners of the 25th Annual Art Show & Sale, Saturday, June 23, 2012.

Wendy Tribulski, Caz Boyd, and Michael Brian Doyle judged the works of many professional artists. Loretta Finnegan, V.P. and Michael Rhoads, President presented the awards, a total of 17 cash prizes in the following categories:

Oil/Acrylic – 1st place: Doree Loschiavo; 2nd place: Chuck Law; 3rd place: Catherine Colsher; 4th place: Madeleine Kelly.

Works on Paper/Mixed Media – 1st place: Catherine Colsher; 2nd place: Helena Van Emerick Finn; 3rd place: Madeleine Kelly; 4th place: Nancy Barch.

Watercolor – 1st place: Lisa Budd; 2nd place: Barbara Michel; 3rd place: Diane Cannon; 4th place: Anna Marie Zabielski.

Photography - 1st place: Christine Peck; 2nd place: John Sweeney; 3rd place: Lucie Seamon; 4th place: Nikki Robinson.

“Best in Show” was awarded to Sarah Becktel for her painting, “The Irreplaceable Time Escapes”-- a self-portrait. She was awarded a $500 cash prize.

APAC programs are made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The funds are administered by the Cape May County Culture and Heritage Commission, for the Board of Chosen Freeholders.
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY SUBSIDIARY TO MANAGE AVALON WATER, WASTEWATER AND STORMWATER SYSTEMS AS OF JULY 1ST

(Avalon and Iselin, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon has a new management company in charge of the Borough’s water and sewer utility. As of Sunday, July 1st, the Middlesex Water Company is managing the utility for the Borough of Avalon. As of July 1st, Avalon property owners now have a new customer service number to use for water and sewer questions. That phone number is 1-800-729-4030.

Middlesex Water Company (NASDAQ:MSEX) is a provider of water and wastewater and related services, primarily in New Jersey and Delaware. Its subsidiary, Utility Service Affiliates, Inc., (USA), has entered into a contract with the Borough of Avalon, NJ to operate and manage the Borough’s water, wastewater and storm water collection systems under a ten-year agreement. Avalon is one of New Jersey’s premier beach communities with a summer population of approximately 30,000-40,000 persons.

The Borough of Avalon continues to retain ownership of its water, wastewater, and sewer system. Avalon is able to save its taxpayers approximately $100,000 annually by providing a contract to a professional company for the management of the system. Avalon has saved taxpayers well in excess of $1 million by privatizing the system every year since September, 1995.

The management responsibilities for Middlesex Water Company include all billing operations, meter installations, customer service issues, emergency response involving water and sewer line breaks, and the day to day operations of the water, sewer, and storm water system. The New Jersey American Water Company is working with Middlesex Water Company during the first six months of 2012 to make the transition as seamless as possible.


The company will employ between three to six people working full time in the Borough at all times to handle day to day operations including the maintenance of well stations and pumping stations; conducting inspections; and installing water meters. The Avalon Department of Public Works will host the Middlesex Water Company employees in their building at 13th Street and Dune Drive.


About Middlesex Water Company
Middlesex Water Company, headquartered in Iselin, NJ, is an investor-owned water utility, serving customers in central and southern New Jersey and in the State of Delaware. The Company, now in its 115th year, provides regulated and unregulated water and wastewater utility services through various subsidiary companies. For additional information regarding Middlesex Water Company, visit the Company’s Web site at www.middlesexwater.com or call (732) 634-1500.
AVALON PRESENTS “KIDS FISHING CAMP” WITH MAYOR PAGLIUGHI

(Avalon, NJ)—Ever wish you could spend time with the mayor, tossing a line into the water and enjoying a summer day at the seashore? The Avalon Department of Recreation is making that possible on Monday, July 23rd with a first of its kind “Kids Fishing Camp” with Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi, who is an avid surf fisherman.

“This will be an exciting way for children in Avalon to have an unforgettable fishing experience with Mayor Pagliughi”, said Avalon Department of Recreation Supervisor Brian Juzaitis. “Marty loves fishing and loves spending time with children. He will be able to pass along pointers to the camp attendees who will have a fun and educational day of fishing”.

The camp begins with camp attendees arriving at the Avalon Community Hall at 30th Street and the beach at 9:45am on July 23rd. Campers will be provided with novice fishing poles and bait so they can get fishing right away on Avalon’s 32nd Street Fishing Pier. Mayor Pagliughi will provide basic instruction that will be easy to follow even for children who have never gone fishing before. The camp will conclude before lunchtime.

The registration fee is $25 with the fee covering expenses for fishing poles and bait. Registration will be open to the first 25 children between the ages of 5-12 who sign up for the Kids Fishing Camp. Parents can sign up their children by visiting Avalon Community Hall or by calling (609) 967-3066. The Avalon Department of Recreation will require one parent to attend the camp with their children for supervisory purposes.
AVALON OFFERS COOLING CENTERS DURING HEAT WAVE

(Avalon, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon has cooling centers available in the community for individuals who may not have the comfort of air conditioning in their homes. The cooling centers are available during the warm daytime hours where air conditioning is provided.

The Avalon Office of Emergency Management offers the cooling centers at Avalon Borough Hall, at 3100 Dune Drive; Avalon Community Hall, at 30th Street and the beach; and at the Avalon Free Public Library, located behind Avalon Borough Hall.

The National Weather Service predicts sunshine and temperatures reaching into the low to mid 90s on both Wednesday and Thursday, June 20th and 21st. Temperatures away from the immediate coastline could reach 100 degrees in interior southern New Jersey. Temperatures are expected to reach 90 degrees at the beaches again on Friday before a front moves through with some thunderstorms and knocks temperatures back into the 80s for the weekend.

During this period of extreme heat, please limit your exposure to hot temperatures. When possible, limit your outdoor activities to the early morning and evening hours. Please check on the elderly and pets during this very hot weather. Please obey all swimming advisories and instructions provided by the Avalon Beach Patrol.

LOCAL STUDENT WINS AWARD FOR CITIZEN SERVICE

(Avalon, NJ)—Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi presented the Borough of Avalon’s 7 Mile Beach 2012 Citizen Service award to Kaitlin Bailey, who is graduating this spring from the Avalon Elementary School.

Mayor Pagliughi attended an awards ceremony at the school on Wednesday, June 13th. He recognized Bailey for her outstanding service to community. Bailey has been twice recognized as the winning student artist for the Avalon beach tag design contest that is held annually at the school.

Bailey received a plaque from the mayor and Avalon Borough Council along with a gift certificate for her outstanding achievements.

AVALON CELEBRATES JULY 4TH WITH SYMPHONY CONCERT, FIREWORKS

(Avalon, NJ)—The Borough of Avalon is getting ready for the biggest July 4th celebration in South Jersey. Avalon will host five full days of big events throughout the community, including a free world-class symphony concert and the largest fireworks display along the New Jersey coastline.

A major highlight of the July 4th week in Avalon will be a free patriotic concert presented by the Bay-Atlantic Symphony on Wednesday, July 4th, at 7:00pm. The concert will be held inside the Avalon Community Hall at 30th Street and the beach. No tickets are needed for this concert and seating will be done on a first come, first served basis.
This year’s Bay-Atlantic Symphony concert is entitled “Quest and Delights of Freedom” and includes selections from Verdi, Anderson, Sousa, and Tchaikovsky. Dr. Herman J. Saatkamp, Jr., the President of the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, will serve as guest conductor.

Immediately following the Bay-Atlantic Symphony concert the Borough of Avalon will present the largest fireworks display along the New Jersey coastline at the 30th Street beach. The fireworks begin at approximately 9:15pm and will be set to patriotic music. A simulcast of the music accompanying the Avalon fireworks will be broadcast live on WCZT 98.7..the Coast radio station. Before the fireworks event, the Avalon Department of Recreation will have various fun kids activities on the Avalon beach, and next to Avalon Community Hall.

Earlier in the day on July 4th, Avalon will be holding its famous boat parade at high tide, starting at the Avalon Pointe Marina. More information is available from the Avalon Department of Recreation by calling (609) 967-3066. Avalon will get the July 4th celebration started at 12 Noon with a free beach concert at the 30th Street beach featuring music from the “Tropical Steel Band”.

The July 4th celebration begins in Avalon on Sunday, July 1st with a string band parade throughout Avalon. The parade steps off at the Avalon Community Hall at 6:00pm and proceeds north on Avalon Avenue to 29th Street, then turns west towards dune Drive. The parade continues on Dune Drive until it reaches Veterans Plaza at 21st Street for Mummers’ music and dancing.

On Monday, July 2nd the Avalon Department of Recreation will sponsor a patriotic kids’ event at Veterans Plaza at 6:30pm. The following day, July 3rd, field races will be held at the 10th Street recreation field, at 10:00am.

The celebration of America’s birthday will continue on Thursday, July 5th in Avalon. The Borough will host a performance by the 63rd Army Band at Veterans Plaza, 21st Street and Dune Drive, at 7:00pm. The concert is free and open to the public. Bring a beach chair and enjoy live music from one of our military’s finest bands.

LOCAL AMERICAN LEGION POST FORMS “SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION”

(Stone Harbor/Avalon, NJ)—The Stephen C. Ludlam American Legion Post #331 (Stone Harbor/Avalon, NJ) is forming a new “Sons of the American Legion” that will compliment and assist the efforts of the post located at the northwest corner of 117th Street and Second Avenue in Stone Harbor, New Jersey.

“We are very excited about the creation of this new ‘Sons of the American Legion’ along the Seven Mile Beach”, said American Legion Post #331 Commander Kevin Coyle. “Many members of the public who want to assist and serve the American Legion but lack the military experience will be able to support the efforts of this post and all veterans throughout the United States by becoming engaged and involved in this new organization”.

The new “Sons of the American Legion” organization will be comprised of ten men who had a father, mother, or grandparent who served in any branch of the United States Military. The goal of American Legion Post #331 is to develop and grow a “Sons of the American Legion” squadron that will organize and recruit eligible members. These ten men will be the founding fathers of the squadron and serve as charter members.

“There are so many individuals in our community and elsewhere who graciously support our veterans and American Legions throughout the country”, Coyle said. “Unfortunately, many of these individuals cannot become actual members of the legion because they did not serve in the military. This is a great way to form a squadron that will grow the ranks of our legion post while enhancing the post’s contributions in our home communities”.

The creation of the “Sons of the American Legion” squadron was approved during Post #331’s general membership meeting on November 14th, 2011. The post is actively looking for men who have the desire, interest, and drive to be a charter member of this new organization.

American Legion Post #331 is located at the Tatham’s Life Saving Station in Stone Harbor. The station is the oldest existing building in the Borough and is the home to the Stephen C. Ludlam American Legion Post #331. The post is named in the memory of Stephen C. Ludlam who was killed in action at the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. For his heroic action in defeating a German machine gun and saving his comrades, Private Ludlam received the Purple Heart and Distinguished Service Cross, our nation’s second highest honor.

The Post is actively involved in various Memorial Day and Veterans Day activities in both Stone Harbor and Avalon. Last month, Commander Coyle presented donations from the Post that will help ten families at the United States Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May enjoy a better holiday season. Additionally, in 2011 the Post provided financial support to various veterans’ homes throughout the state of New Jersey, and contributed to the Wounded Warriors Project, New Jersey Run for the Fallen, Honor Flight of Southern New Jersey and the Adam Conboy Memorial Fund “Operation Bedding”.

More information on the “Sons of the American Legion” squadron is located on the post’s official website, www.stephencludlampost331.org.

AVALON PERFORMING ARTS COUNCIL – APAC HOSTS 25th ANNUAL ART SHOW AND SALE

Avalon, NJ, June 6, 2012 --The Avalon Performing Arts Council is pleased to present the 25th Annual Art Show and Sale on Saturday, June 23, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Avalon Community Hall, 30th Street, and Avalon Avenue. Admission is free; donations are welcome.

As APAC’s “premier” event, the Art Show and Sale will feature 50 artists from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland. Only the artists’ original work will be exhibited and sold.

Artists’ works will be judged in several categories; oil, acrylic, watercolor, works on paper/mixed media and photography. Artists will select two art pieces in each of these categories for the judging and awards will be announced by 1:00 pm. Best in Show carries a cash award of $500, first place $250, second place $150, third place $100, and fourth $75.

Lisa Budd was the “Best in Show” award winner for her painting “Deep Sea Search” in the 2011 Annual Art Show. Ms. Budd has graciously donated another of her paintings to be raffled off on June 23 as a fund raising effort for APAC.

For more information, call 609-967-3066 – www.avalonperformingarts.org.

This program is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The re-grant is administered by the Cape May County Culture and Heritage Commission for the Board of Chosen Freeholders.
AVALON UNVEILS STATE OF THE ART PET EVACUATION TRAILER
Trailer will reunite pets with their owners during localized or out of county evacuation event

(Avalon, NJ)—The Avalon Office of Emergency Management unveiled a brand new public safety initiative during a press conference on Thursday, June 7th. The Borough has acquired and created Cape May County’s first-ever pet evacuation trailer that will reunite pets with their owners during a localized or out of county evacuation event. The pet evacuation trailer is an integral component to Avalon’s emergency management plan.

“This pet evacuation trailer will save lives and encourage residents to get themselves out of harm’s way in the event of a major storm event”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi, who also serves the Borough as Emergency Management Coordinator. “There is a tremendous need for local communities, counties, and the state to embrace the issue of pets and their owners during significant storm events. Avalon has first-hand experience with residents who would not leave their homes just to care for their pets. Instead of avoiding the issue, Avalon embraced it as a public safety initiative to save lives”.

During two successive blizzards in February, 2010 the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department housed dozens of residents upstairs at the fire house; these residents had no electricity or communications in their homes due to downed power lines. Some of these evacuees brought pets, including many cats and dogs. “This evacuation made it clear to us in Avalon that we needed to implement a new program to accommodate pet owners who had no place to go during a major storm”, Pagliughi said. “We had some individuals in our community who wanted to stay in their homes with no heat just so they could care for their pets. We relocated these people and their pets to our firehouse and immediately developed a plan that led us to the creation of the county’s first pet evacuation trailer”.

That summer, Avalon enacted a voluntary Borough-wide survey of permanent residents to determine their needs during an evacuation. Residents who had no means or ability to evacuate out of Avalon voluntarily provided information about the number of pets that they own. This survey guided the Avalon Office of Emergency Management to develop a pet evacuation trailer that met the community’s needs.

Earlier this year, the Borough acquired a pre-owned “Great Dane” trailer that is in excellent condition from Atlantic Utility Trailer Sales. The 53-foot long trailer has been customized to serve as a temporary shelter for pets in the event of a storm event or other emergency. The trailer will have nearly 70 cages to accommodate cats and dogs of all sizes. The Avalon Department of Public Works has customized the trailer with necessary amenities for the safety, health, and comfort of the pets. The trailer now includes climate control, running water, an awning, a veterinary work station, a wash basin for pets, a refrigerator, and a generator hook up.

During an evacuation event, pet owners will travel with their own pets to Avalon’s designated shelter. At that time, the pet evacuation trailer will be at the shelter where pet owners can place their cats and dogs in the trailer during the storm event. The pet owners themselves will help care for their own pets and provide them food and comfort during the emergency with assistance from Avalon shelter operators.

The Avalon Office of Emergency Management has designated Councilman Joseph V. Tipping to be the designed coordinator for the pet evacuation trailer. Mr. Tipping has taken classes offered by the State of New Jersey regarding evacuations and care for animals during major storm events. Last summer, Mr. Tipping volunteered at the Avalon shelter during the Hurricane Irene event. He has been instrumental in the development of a standard operating procedure that will be followed when the trailer is put into use.

The Borough of Avalon received plenty of support and consultation during the development of the pet evacuation trailer. Local veterinarians Dr. David Hirsch and Dr. Marc Logan met with Borough officials to offer advice relating to the health and welfare of the pets while the trailer is in use. The Borough has been in contact with county and state emergency management officials regarding the availability of the trailer. The Borough has also received advice from the Emergency Management Office of the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.

Communities through the state learned during the Hurricane Irene event in August, 2011 that shelters throughout the state do not accept pets for various safety, health, and liability reasons. This often leads to residents opting to stay at home with their pets putting themselves in harm’s way. “We were lucky with Hurricane Irene”, Pagliughi said. “Coastal residents need to realize that if we have a major hurricane at the Jersey Shore homes may be without power, climate control, and communications for several weeks. Shelters are not the most comfortable places to be, but they are certainly much better options for people and their pets in the event of a catastrophe”.

Generous donations from corporate sponsors have defrayed most of the costs associated with the acquisition and customizing of the pet evacuation trailer. They include: Hatch Mott MacDonald, Middlesex Water Company, Verizon, Garrison Architect, Jim and Jason Demarco Insurance Solutions Inc., and McManimon and Scotland. Smeltzer and Sons in Cape May Court House, in conjunction with Midwest Homes for Pets, has generously donated safe cages for the pets and will be the supplier of food and other essentials shall an evacuation be warranted.

“This is a case where the Avalon Office of Emergency Management is meeting a need that has already been demonstrated in our community”, Pagliughi said. “The Borough of Avalon will use this trailer to save the lives of pets and their owners when storms put us in harm’s way. And, Avalon will certainly make the trailer available to other partners in emergency management when a need arises in another community. Lives have been lost unnecessarily in other communities in the United States because officials did not embrace this issue. Our number one responsibility in Avalon is to provide for the health, safety and welfare of our residents. This pet evacuation shelter helps us accomplish that goal”.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE POSTS COASTAL FLOOD WARNING FOR AVALON

(Avalon, NJ)— The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Warning for the Borough of Avalon and other coastal communities for this evening, Tuesday, June 5th. Minor to moderate coastal flooding is expected at time of high tide this evening, which will take place at the Townsend's Inlet Bridge between Avalon and Sea Isle City at 9:43pm.

Flooding is not expected to be as significant as last night's flooding event, but it still needs to be monitored. Portions of Ocean Drive are expected to see minor to moderate flooding this evening during the high tide event. If you have a vehicle parked along Ocean Drive, please consider moving it to higher ground. If you live in an area of Avalon that typically sees high water during flooding, move your vehicle to higher ground. Do not attempt to drive through any flooded streets this evening. Exercise greater caution while driving in Avalon this evening.

For more information, view Channel 2 on Comcast television or listen to 1630AM radio, Avalon's emergency management radio station.

Public Notice

The Avalon Police Department is scheduled for an on-site assessment as part of a program to achieve accreditation by verifying it meets professional standards.

Administered by the New Jersey Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission in conjunction with the New Jersey State Chiefs of Police, the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with standards in four basic areas that represent the best practices in Law Enforcement.  The standards address policy and procedures, administration, operations and support services.

As part of the on-site assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer comments by calling 609-967-5904 on Monday, June 11, 2012.  The accreditation assessors assigned to the on-site assessment will take phone calls from the public between the hours of 9 am and 11 pm.  Telephone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with the accreditation standards.

AVALON PAYS TRIBUTE TO MILITARY DURING MEMORIAL DAY PARADE, CEREMONY

(Avalon, NJ)—The first major summer weekend in Avalon was highlighted by a very special Memorial Day parade and ceremony held in the Borough on Monday morning, May 28th. Several hundred people lined Avalon’s Dune Drive business district to view the parade before walking to Veterans Plaza for Avalon’s special Memorial Day ceremony.

The parade and ceremony was hosted by the Borough of Avalon and by American Legion Post #331 that serves both Avalon and Stone Harbor. The parade featured many cars and floats from Avalon organizations, National Guard vehicles, fire trucks, and other attractions. Mayor Martin Pagliughi was joined by the Avalon Borough Council who walked in the parade.

“For generations past, current, and future, we recognize as Americans that the only reason we enjoy summer weekends in Avalon and freedom everyday is a direct result of the highly trained, highly skilled, and heroic efforts of the men and women who put service and duty above themselves in the most dangerous areas of the world”, said Avalon Mayor Pagliughi at the ceremony that followed the parade. Mayor Pagliughi also noted that the United States has an all-volunteer military and thanked all of the men and women in all branches of the military for their dedication and service.

Avalon welcomed a very special guest speaker to the Memorial Day ceremony, Untied States Marine Sgt. Kristin D. Zamichieli who served our country as a Mission Commander and Instructor/Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot for flights that support “Operation Enduring Freedom” in Afghanistan. Sgt. Zamichieli executed nearly 200 flights and logged more than 2,300 flight hours during her service. She received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from the United States Congress in 2011.

Sgt. Zamichieli thanked all of the veterans in attendance for their service in the military, and also thanked the public for their endless support of our troops overseas.

© 2012 The Boro Of Avalon, New Jersey. All rights reserved. Site map

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Borough of Avalon, New Jersey
3100 Dune Drive
Avalon, NJ 08202
(609) 967-8200

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