Times Talk
‘Rock trucks’ will enable sand backpassing without an outside contractor.
AVALON EYES ‘ROCK TRUCKS’ TO COMBAT BEACH EROSION
It’s been a battle since the first inhabitants arrived on Seven Mile Beach more than 200 years ago: The struggle to stabilize our beaches against Mother Nature’s fiercest efforts to move or, in some cases, remove them. Avalon’s mayor in the early 1940s, Edith Greenan, was once quoted as saying, “The greatest challenge that we face as a town is finding a way to protect our beaches from constant erosion.”
A telling statement from 80 years ago, considering that at the time her town’s finances were under the control of the State of New Jersey. Avalon’s most recent former mayor, Marty Pagliughi, a leader in beach protection, was known to often list the fantastic amenities that the towns of Seven Mile Beach offer before reminding you “that all of the millions of people who have visited here for the past 100-plus years have come for one reason: our beaches. It’s always been that big a deal.”
The Borough of Avalon acted on a measure at its Nov. 17 Council meeting, which might be considered the most positive, cost-effective step in beach replenishment in the history of the towns of Seven Mile Beach. Said Avalon Mayor John McCorristin: “With no government appropriations at this time, it became obvious that we needed to begin to do something on our own to protect our dunes, beaches and bulkhead.”
The Borough Council was expected to vote to authorize the administration to purchase two John Deere “rock trucks” capable of holding 25-33 cubic yards of sand each. The purchase of these trucks, in coordination with an existing federal permit held by the Borough and the Borough’s existing employees with CDL certification, will enable the borough to perform sand backpassing on an ongoing basis without an outside contractor.
This process does not shorten the beach; instead, it removes a thin layer of sand from an area where sand is more abundant and moves it to an area where more sand is needed. Borough Administrator Scott Wahl, who initially proposed the concept, explained that the advance work won’t eliminate the need for more extensive backpassing or hydraulic dredging projects.
Obviously, it’s impossible to predict what damage future natural disasters might cause, but working in advance will allow the Borough to get ahead of the sand replacement process. This is a function that the Borough has occasionally conducted in the offseason in the past. “Now, this will allow us to shore up new hot spots in advance gradually,” Wahl noted.
The cost of the two trucks, which is expected to be $950,000, will be funded through unexpended bond ordinances, so it’s not likely to impact the borough’s budget. The advanced backpassing is also expected to lead to future savings for the borough, which should cover the cost of the equipment purchase.
Mark E. Puterbaugh Jr. flanked by his wife and Mayor Tim Carney.
SHFD’S PUTERBAUGH ELEVATED TO FULL-TIME POST
The Borough of Stone Harbor welcomed its newest career firefighter, Mark E. Puterbaugh Jr., to the ranks of the Stone Harbor Fire Department. Mayor Tim Carney administered the oath of office during the Oct. 7 Borough Council meeting.
For more than a decade, Puterbaugh has been a dedicated presence in the South Jersey fire service. His journey began in 2012 with the Somers Point Fire Department, where his passion for helping others quickly became evident. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, serving as lieutenant and captain with the Linwood Fire Department, gaining experience in emergency medical response, water rescue, and fire apparatus operation.
“I’m proud to officially welcome Mark to the Stone Harbor Fire Department,” Carney said. “His proven dedication to public service, strong leadership, and extensive experience in fire and emergency response will strengthen our department and enhance the safety of our community for years to come.”
Puterbaugh first joined the Stone Harbor Fire Department in May 2024 as a volunteer and part-time member. He also has served as a part-time firefighter/EMT on the A Platoon shift with Wildwood Crest Emergency Medical Services.
He is a graduate of Mainland Regional High School, certified as Firefighter I and II through the Atlantic County Fire Academy, and holds additional certifications in vehicle extrication and open-water rescue.
John McCorristin, Marty Pagliughi, Pat Coyle, Margo Locke, and David Rauenzahn marked the library’s grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 19, 2005.
YOU’RE INVITED TO AVALON LIBRARY’S ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The Avalon Free Public Library is celebrating a major milestone Nov. 19 – its 20th anniversary! That was the date when the library’s current building first opened its doors to the community in 2005. To commemorate the occasion, the library invites all to stop by from 4-6pm for an afternoon featuring library-themed games, crafts, and giveaways (while supplies last), along with light refreshments.
“It’s such an exciting milestone,” said Erin Brown, the library’s director. “For all of us, it’s a chance to celebrate how far we’ve come and to think about everything the library means to Avalon. Twenty years is a long time to grow, adapt, and connect with the community – and we’re proud that the library is still such a vibrant part of Avalon life. It really speaks to the dedication of the staff and trustees and the amazing support we’ve had from patrons and the Borough along the way.”
Brown reflected on the library’s evolution over the past two decades, noting key developments that have shaped its growth.
“Expanding digital collections and technology access has been a big one – especially as the community’s reading and learning habits have changed,” she noted. “The development of the Avalon History Center, with support from the Avalon Historical Society and Borough, was another huge step, allowing us to preserve and share Avalon’s history in a really meaningful way. And growth of programming and events for all ages has helped us serve the community in new and expanded ways.”
Today, the Avalon Free Public Library and History Center remain cornerstones of the community, offering resources and programs for residents and visitors alike. Library cards are available free to Avalon residents and property owners, as well as to Cape May County residents. Seasonal cards are also available for Avalon visitors.
The library’s collection includes nearly 80,000 books, movies, music, magazines, and games, along with public computers, Wi-Fi, and printing, copying, scanning, and fax services. It also offers a wide range of year-round events, classes, and programs – including best-selling author visits and concerts – plus a robust digital library and more than 20 online resources.
Check it out at avalonfreelibrary.org.
Paddles for the Pantry participants
‘PADDLES FOR THE PANTRY’ A BIG HIT AGAIN
The second annual Paddles for the Pantry pickleball fundraiser, organized by Teresa DiPeso and Kathy Colfer, was held Nov. 1 at the Avalon Pickleball Courts. The event included 52 participants and raised $3,000 for the Redeemer Health Food Pantry and the Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro’s Vera Smith Food Pantry. Additionally, more than 200 pounds of canned foods were collected during the event to be donated to these two organizations.
Players and sponsors from across Cape May and Atlantic counties participated in the event, which featured an individual round-robin format designed to encourage camaraderie and new friendships on the courts. Fifty-two women competed in two divisions, with prizes awarded to first- and second-place winners.
“Months of planning go into this tournament, but we’re blessed with incredible community support,” said DiPeso. “From our sponsors, players and volunteers to the City of Avalon and everyone who donated, we couldn’t do it without them.”
The event had its genesis last year when a volunteer from the Redeemer Health Food Pantry in Ocean View approached Colfer and DiPeso about organizing a pickleball tournament to support local families. The two immediately stepped up to help. DiPeso created the event’s name and logo, and together she and Colfer quickly organized the inaugural tournament, which drew 68 players and raised $2,200 in its first year.
DiPeso and Colfer hope to make Paddles for the Pantry a lasting tradition that grows each year, helping more neighbors in need while bringing the community together through friendly competition and shared purpose.
HOLIDAY BEACH TAGS MAKE PERFECT GIFTS
Give the gift of summer memories this season with the purchase of an Avalon or Stone Harbor holiday beach tag.
Avalon’s limited-edition design features a cheerful snowman on the beach next to an Avalon surfboard. Holiday tags will be available for purchase from 10am-5pm on Nov. 28 and 29 at the beach tag booth adjacent to Avalon Community Hall, located at 30th Street and the beach. Tags are $35 each and make the perfect stocking stuffer for beach lovers near and far.
If any holiday tags remain after the holiday weekend, they will be sold beginning Monday, Dec. 1 at the Avalon Tax Collector’s Office in Borough Hall (3100 Dune Drive) from 8:15am-4:15pm.
In Stone Harbor, holiday tags will be sold at the beach patrol headquarters at 95th Street and the beach over Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 28-30, from 10am-4pm. This year’s design shows a big wave on the beach with sunshine overhead and snowflakes falling.
Avalon and Stone Harbor beach tags are reciprocal, offering access to both iconic beaches all season long. Tags can also be conveniently purchased online at jersey-cape-tags.myshopify.com while supplies last.
The girls’ cross-country team takes off the starting line during a fall meet.
SHARKS CROSS-COUNTRY RUNNERS REFUSED TO LOSE
The boys’ and girls’ cross-country teams representing the Avalon and Stone Harbor Elementary schools from grades 5-8 closed out their regular season undefeated on Oct. 29. Both of the Sharks’ teams went 11-0.
“I couldn’t be prouder,” said coach Laura Salvesen. “They are a great group of kids who not only run hard but lift each other up in races. I hope the community knows how dedicated they are and how much pride they take in representing their school. They’re great role models for what teamwork and perseverance look like.”
Salvesen has coached since the program began in 2021. Keira Cunningham was a top female competitor this season, finishing first in all but one meet, where she placed second. Among the boys, Julian Corrado finished first in all of the conference races. Several other runners set personal records and placed in the top 10 spots at multiple meets.
“Going undefeated says so much about their work ethic, commitment, and team spirit,” Salvesen said. “This group shows up every day ready to push themselves and support one another. They truly understand that cross country is an individual and team effort and that balance has made all the difference.
“What really stands out is how consistent and united the team has been across every race. Every runner has contributed to our undefeated record, both those leading the pack and others digging deep to show their commitment to the team.”