Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers,

August has arrived, bringing with it the golden glow of late summer and a gentle reminder to slow down and savor the moment. As Zac Brown Band so perfectly puts it on this month’s cover, “Only worry in the world ... the tide gonna reach my chair.” It’s a sentiment that fits just right this time of year, when the pace softens and the simple joys of 7 Mile life take center stage.

Inside this issue, we’re thrilled to showcase one of the season’s most anticipated events, the Cape Designer House Tour beginning on page 92. In “Breathtaking,” writer Mary Byrne Lamb takes us inside a curated collection of stunning homes that reflect the creativity, craftsmanship, and coastal charm that define our island.

Our dining pages are bursting with flavor this month. On page 60, Celeste E. Whittaker introduces us to La Porteña, a stylish new boutique steakhouse that’s elevating the local culinary scene. And if you’re craving summer’s star ingredient, the tomato, don’t miss our double feature: on page 82, Jean Miersch offers tomato-forward recipes perfect for outdoor entertaining, followed by Kathleen Todaro’s guide to pairing wines with summer’s juiciest produce on page 86.

You won’t want to miss some of the features in this issue. On page 32, Celeste E. Whittaker captures a historic moment in “Three Times a Lady,” as all three local yacht clubs are led by female commodores for the first time. Over on page 53, Vicky Parente gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how Avalon Market transformed into a movie set after hours in “What’s Going On In Here?!” On page 116, Dave Coskey brings us ‘Making Waves,’ highlighting the achievements and stories of South Jersey’s legendary lifeguards.

Looking for ways to spend your August evenings? Our Events at a Glance calendar (page 18) is filled with summer concerts, author events, and family fun. Don’t miss the Summer Spotlight Series featuring best-selling authors Jo Piazza (Aug. 6) and Dr. Doug Tallamy (Aug. 25), both making special appearances in Avalon (page 66).

Whether you’re here for a long weekend or the whole month, thank you for picking up Seven Mile Times and for supporting the businesses, artists, and organizations that bring these pages to life.

See you on the beach,

Monica Coskey
Publisher & Editor
Seven Mile Times
mcoskey@7milepub.com