William W. Leap
Citizens United to Protect the Maurice River and its Tributaries, Inc.
Public Meeting March 10, 1999, 7:30 p.m.
Wheaton Village Crafts Building
WILLIAM LEAP will offer a historian’s view of New Jersey’s own phenomenon. The creature’s antics are traced from the various stories of its birth in the early 1700s through the pages of history to 1983. Facts from newspaper files, eye witness accounts and genealogical records are interwoven throughout the presentation.
William W. Leap has been described as an “indefatigable researcher,” a “raconteur extraordinaire” and “an unabashed South Jersey booster.” His 25 years of researching, writing, conducting tours and talking about New Jersey have led to statewide awards – “For Outstanding Service to Public Knowledge and Preservation of the History of New Jersey” and “Local Historian Award of Merit” among others.
Audience reaction to his presentation is mixed. Some say they will never go out alone after dark again, others try to laugh it off as mere legend, but all agree it is a fascinating tale. Because children love it, we will have the presentation portion before the regular business meeting. This will enable people with young ones to leave early.
Commercial Telecommunications Facilities (towers / monopoles) – Applications before planning and zoning boards have raised serious concerns about the possible proliferation of 150′-200′ communication towers, which are being proposed within communities bordering the rivers. The review of visual impacts and deficiencies in the municipal ordinances are the main issues. Presently the Board of Trustees is addressing these concerns in the City of Millville.
Application to the New Jersey Historical Commission – Citizens United is submitting an application to the New Jersey Historical Commission for a grant to prepare a survey of maritime resources along the New Jersey Delaware Bayshore. We are partnering with the State Historic Preservation Office and National Park Service New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route on this project.
Grant Application to the National Endowment for the Arts – In May we expect to hear about the status of our application to do a film of Wetland Artists. Keep your fingers crossed!
“Fish Tales” – Constance Jost – A retrospective exhibition of late member Connie Jost is on display at the Noyes Museum, January 17 – May 16. The exhibit celebrates Jost’s ironic sense of humor, and her profound ability to communicate both the plight and her fanciful view of marine life. Museum hours are Wed.-Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for students, children, and senior citizens; children under 12 are free. The Noyes Museum is located on Lily Lake Road in Oceanville.