Belmar - 5/1/17
The Taylor Pavilion, which had been completely destroyed in Hurricane Sandy, was re-built bigger and better than ever.
The dedication was attended by both of NJ's US Senators, Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, Belmar Mayor Matt Doherty, Belmar politicians, News outlets, and many local citizens.
The ribbon was cut by 99 yr. old Doris Taylor. She is the widow of John Taylor, former Belmar Mayor for whom the Pavilion was named.
Mayor Doherty stated, "A Pavilion has been on this site for 125 years until Hurricane Sandy washed it away."
Doris Taylor said through a granddaughter, that the Pavilion had a very special place in her heart. As a young woman, she had been a Belmar lifeguard on this very beach in the mid to late 30's.
(Painting above -18 year old Jeanne Bonk who was a lifeguard in 1944, the same year she was "Miss Belmar". Nicholas Baldino had the painting commissioned by local artist Suzannne Anon prior to his death in 2015).
After the speeches from the politicians, the people were all invited inside where a 'Taste of Belmar' event was happening. Many different Belmar restaurants and shops participated by bringing samples of their signature dish for everyone to try.
Lena Lowe from Sweet! on 10th Avenue said, "Its an honor to be asked to participate in this dedication. We actually survived both Hurricane Irene the year before and Hurricane Sandy. It was devastating to this town. The pavilions, the entire Boardwalk, many homes, and businesses were lost. Business slowed to a crawl. I'm proud to say that Belmar didn't just give up. We cleaned up and rebuilt bigger and better! People are coming to Belmar in droves again. New businesses are opening. Theres an excitement in town. Sweet! is happy to be part of this town and we will continue to support it in anyway we can."
Sweet! brought a mini version of their award-winning 'Belmar' cupcake for all to try. "People love it." said Co-owner and Jersey Shore Cake Artist Cali Amadio. "And we love bringing it." she added with a smile.
It was a fun time had by all as everyone got to also see the inside of the new Taylor Pavilion which will hopefully last another 125 years at least.