Hello 08037! Who is ready for summer?! I sure am! So excited for those relaxing pool days, trips to the beach, and barbecues! Tan lines anyone? I am also excited for you to check out our Summer edition magazine dedicated to the lifestyle and community of Hammonton.
We start our issue learning about the Puerto Rican Association of Hammon- ton, which has a rich history that dates to 1957. Founded by Fernando “Fred- dy” Melendez along with a group of fel- low Puerto Ricans, the Association was initially established to provide support to migrant farm workers arriving from Puerto Rico. Their goal was to ensure that they had access to good living condi- tions and fair treatment. With growth, mission has shifted to promote Puerto Rican culture and offer assistance with health, education and support to the community. Learn all that they do on page 6.
Next we travel with D’Amico Trav- el. Hammonton native and proud third-generation female business own- er Heather D’Amico has been running D’Amico Travel with her husband Da- vid since 2012, securing the agency’s reputation both locally and nationally. D’Amico Travel’s passionate Vacation Designers not only offer top-notch cus- tomer service that tailors custom trips to clients’ desires; they also provide a bit of extra support just in case any- thing on vacation goes wrong. “I’m re- ally proud of how far we’ve come, but now there’s still so much more ahead,” Heather said. For more, travel to page 8.
We round our issue meeting Hammonton Public Schools Superin- tendent Tom Ramsay. “During the school day you won’t find Tom in the office very much,” said John Lyons, president of the Hammonton board of education. “He’s in the hallways, and in the classrooms. Observing teachers, meeting with staff. Engaged with par- ents and our kids.” His first year as su- perintendent has been “nothing short of remarkable” overseeing a district of 3,000-plus students. Head to the schools on page 22.
Also check out our Expert Con- tributor article – “Transform Your Smile with Invisalign” – on page 18. And don’t forget to check out “Spend Summer in Downtown Hammonton” to learn about Ty Wilson, MainStreet Hammonton’s new executive director, on page 14 and Hammonton Happen- ings on page 26 for future community events and hear what your neighbors have to say, Sprinkles or Jimmies? on page 2. All of this and more awaits on the pages ahead!
Enjoy!
