• Cape May Local Scoop
  • Posts
  • Cape May Commissioners Sworn In as Board Pays Tribute to Late County Leader

Cape May Commissioners Sworn In as Board Pays Tribute to Late County Leader

Issue #573

January 11, 2026

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

⚖️ Cape May Commissioners Sworn In as Board Pays Tribute to Late County Leader

🎾Sea Isle City's $21 Million Community Center Nears Completion with Grand Opening Expected Soon

🐟Cape May Blackfish Season Opens Strong with Double-Digit Catches Offshore

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Daisy Lane Boutique

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 January 11

Have an Upcoming Event?

 

Cape May Commissioners Sworn In as Board Pays Tribute to Late County Leader

Commissioners Bob Barr and Andrew Bulakowski were sworn in for new three-year terms at Cape May County’s 2026 reorganization meeting. Commissioner Leonard Desiderio was unanimously selected by the board to continue serving as director for 2026. Bulakowski was reappointed vice director. Board members used the occasion to reflect on the work ahead and paid tribute to former County Facilities and Services Director Dan Lockwood, who passed away in June 2025 at age 57. A front-row seat was left empty in his memory. Commissioners reaffirmed their focus on economic growth, responsible leadership, and community service

Sea Isle City's $21 Million Community Center Nears Completion with Grand Opening Expected Soon

Sea Isle City’s $21 million community center is nearing completion, with a grand opening expected by February 2026. The facility features a full gym, fitness and activity rooms, a quiet room, civic meeting spaces, and recreational amenities like a golf simulator and walking track While general use of the community center will be free for Sea Isle City property owners, full-time residents, and all children under 17, non-residents will be subject to usage fees. Proposed rates are $5 per day, $40 per month, or $120 annually. These fees are outlined in an ordinance pending final City Council approval, with a vote scheduled for January 27. In preparation for opening, the city’s Community Services staff has been developing a full schedule of programs and activities aimed at making the center a vibrant, year-round gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

 

Cape May Blackfish Season Opens Strong with Double-Digit Catches Offshore

The 2026 fishing season began on a high note for blackfish (also known as tautog) enthusiasts off the coast of Cape May, New Jersey. Favorable conditions allowed for a productive two-day trip targeting trophy-sized tog with veteran captain Tom Daffin of Fishin’ Fever Sportfishing. The trip was organized by Mike Kim of Jigging World, whose expertise in tog fishing was on full display. Anglers landed multiple double-digit tog, including a 14-pounder, using jigs and custom rigs in over 100 feet of water. Despite tougher conditions on the second day, the crew adjusted tactics and continued to catch quality fish. The trip underscored the importance of rig selection, bait preparation, and technique when targeting trophy tog in winter waters.

 Answer to the January 10th Trivia Question

Which significant historical industry was prominent in Cape May during the 17th and 18th centuries?

A) Coal Mining
B) Whaling and Fishing
C) Textile Manufacturing
D) Lumber

Answer: B) Whaling and Fishing

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Cape May was known for its prosperous whaling and fishing industry, which was developed by early settlers and continued by English colonists​.

How Did We Do In This Issue?

Cape May Local Scoop Wants To Know Your Thoughts About Our Newsletter...

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

1