Smilestones
The recipients of the 2026 Italian American Club college scholarships are (from left) Will Kutschera, Antonella DiAntonio, Peyton Laricks, Taylor Mulford, and Noah Nagle.
ITALIAN AMERICAN CLUB SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
The Italian American Club awarded scholarships to five local high school seniors during its annual scholarship dinner on May 27. This year’s recipients were Antonella DiAntonio, Will Kutschera, Peyton Laricks, Taylor Mulford and Noah Nagle.
DiAntonio plans to study education at the University of Delaware. Kutschera will major in mathematics at Stockton University. Laricks will pursue nursing at Fairfield University. Mulford will study musical theater at Widener University. Nagle, who has already earned two associate degrees, plans to major in ocean engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology.
Over the past six years, the Italian American Club has awarded $36,000 in scholarships, including $5,000 this year. Each year, the scholarship dinner supports the club’s scholarship program, which attracted nearly 300 applicants this year. Each applicant is evaluated based on essays highlighting their volunteer service and community involvement.
SIC AMONG TOP 3 N.J. BEACHES IN POLL
Sea Isle City took third place in the Best Beach in New Jersey voting for the USA Today 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.
It was cited for its “delightful, family-friendly beach scene [that] attracts enthusiastic beachgoers of all ages. From swimming in the ocean waves and sunbathing on its wide, soft, sandy shores, to fishing off the pier, these beaches are delightful for oceanside fun. There are food options and other amenities close to the main beach access points around town.”
The annual awards recognize top destinations, attractions, and experiences across a variety of categories, including vacation spots, shopping, and tourism by the public’s vote for the top 10.
Sea Isle City’s placement among the state’s top beaches reflects the strong support of residents, visitors, and beachgoers who participated in the public voting process. Known for its 5 miles of sandy shoreline, diverse shopping opportunities, admired dining establishments, and wide range of recreational activities, Sea Isle City continues to be a popular destination along the Jersey Shore.
The Wildwoods finished first in the voting and Atlantic City was second.
HOMETOWN HEROES BANNERS BACK ON DISPLAY
Mayor Leonard Desiderio joined Sea Isle City’s Department of Public Works on May 21 to help hang some of the community’s Hometown Heroes Banners, part of a program created to honor local military service members past and present.
The Hometown Heroes Banner program serves as a living tribute to members of the U.S. armed forces who are part of the Sea Isle City community. The banners are displayed along JFK Boulevard, Landis Avenue, and Park Road from Memorial Day through Veterans Day for three years.
Sea Isle City currently features 133 banners, each displaying the honoree’s name, rank, branch of service, era served, and sponsoring family members. Due to strong community support, applications for additional banners are still being accepted.
Desiderio said the program is a meaningful way to honor veterans and active-duty service members every day, while also bringing pride to their families, friends, residents, and visitors.
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS HOST WINE-TASTING FUNDRAISER
A wine-tasting fundraiser was held June 6 at Kix in Sea Isle City by the Catholic Daughters of St. Joseph Church, Court Our Lady of Mercy #1655. The annual event attracted parishioners, residents, and supporters who enjoyed sampling a variety of wines paired with appetizers. Guests also learned about the featured wines and participated in a popular wreath raffle.
Proceeds from the fundraiser support the Catholic Daughters’ charitable and community service initiatives, including scholarships, food drives, and an Easter basket drive. The organization meets monthly from September through June at the Parish Life Center on 44th Street.
Look What the Stork Brought
CHARLIE JAY CUSTER
Charlie Jay Custer, the second child of Marissa and Christopher Custer, of Sewell, was born on Feb. 21, slightly earlier than expected. He was 4 pounds, 10 ounces, and 17 inches long at birth. Charlie spent his first few weeks in the neonatal unit at Virtua Hospital in Voorhees, where his parents said he received “amazing care.” In addition to his parents, Charlie is welcomed by his big sister, Eloise; and his grandparents, Lisa and Mike Whaley, of Lindenwold; Charles “Bud” Custer, of Wildwood Crest and Cinnaminson; and his “Gigi,” Dot Custer, who is smiling down from heaven. Also very happy that Charlie has arrived are his “Great Mom-Mom” Fran Custer, and Uncle Ron and Aunt Kathy Custer, all of Sea Isle City, as well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins and loved ones in New Jersey, Wisconsin and elsewhere. Charlie was in Sea Isle City and other parts of Cape May County over Memorial Day weekend, and made his first-ever visit to the beach.
