Letter from the Editor
Dear Readers,
As Memorial Day weekend ushers in the start of another summer season on Seven Mile Beach, our communities once again come alive with excitement, energy, and familiar traditions. From returning families and reopening businesses to packed event calendars and sun-filled beach days, there is a renewed sense of joy that makes this time of year so special.
We’re especially excited for Avalon’s Spring Into Summer celebration, which once again features an incredible lineup of concerts, art, community events, and family fun. From Art & Authors on Dune and the Summer Solstice Festival to open houses, live music, and seasonal traditions, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy as summer kicks off.
In this issue, we’re proud to share stories that reflect the personality, passion, and people who make the Seven Mile Beach community unique.
Dave Bontempo brings us the moving story of Vietnam veteran Tom LaRosa, Avalon’s Memorial Day speaker, whose decades-long tribute to a fallen Marine friend reminds us of the meaning behind the holiday. Ben Niewoehner introduces readers to Casey O’Hara, a third-generation owner of Uncle Bill’s Pancake House who is now helping launch a high-end wetsuit brand in the U.S.
We also feature Mary Byrne Lamb’s story on actress, artist, and author Jane Seymour as she returns to Ocean Galleries in Stone Harbor, along with Alexa Lesniak’s look ahead to Jimmy Buffett guitarist Peter Mayer’s return with his band this summer. Hockey fans won’t want to miss Al Morganti’s feature on Flyers legend Joe “Thundermouth” Watson before his special appearance at Surfside Park.
As you flip through our restaurant profiles, we hope you’ll be inspired to try somewhere new this summer or revisit one of your longtime favorites. Jack Byrne shares the sibling success story behind the Son of a Sailor seafood emporium. One of the best parts of the season is gathering around the table with family and friends and enjoying the incredible dining experiences that make Seven Mile Beach such a special place.
And as we begin another beautiful season together, we also pause to honor the true meaning of Memorial Day: remembering and giving thanks to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We hope everyone takes a moment this holiday weekend to reflect on their service while enjoying time with family, friends, and the freedoms they helped protect.
Thank you to our loyal readers and especially to our advertisers for your continued support of Seven Mile Times. Your support allows us to continue sharing the stories, people, and businesses that make Seven Mile Beach such a wonderful community. We are grateful to be part of your summer tradition and hope you enjoy every page of this issue.
Happy Summer!
Sincerely,
Monica Coskey
Publisher & Editor
Seven Mile Times
mcoskey@7milepub.com