{Avalon, NJ – August/September 1985}
After the work at the Masters’ property was completed, the remainder of the summer was significantly less dramatic. The adults had quietly agreed to focus their efforts on maintaining a sense of balance and normalcy for the children’s sake. Fortunately for everyone, normal life at the shore could be very relaxing and enjoyable, especially on Seven Mile Island.
Wayne and Johnny continued to have a great time during the month of August. The boys won two more volleyball tournaments and went swimming and crabbing almost every day. They were especially pleased when another local seafood market agreed to buy their buckets of crabs for the remainder of the season.
Mark expressed great pride in his sons when they gave him the remaining loan balance for the boat motor. “This is absolutely fantastic, boys. I’m really proud of you. Between your volleyball games and your crabbing sales, you two have become quite the entrepreneurs.”
The boys wisely decided to save most of their summer earnings. Even so, they did plan to use a portion of the money to host a pizza party for their water polo team when practices resumed in September.
Lisa carried on working at the Fishin’ Pier Grille each morning, and she thoroughly enjoyed spending her afternoons with her friends, either hanging out at the beach or riding bikes all around the island.
When Labor Day weekend finally arrived, the Sanders family began packing their bags and loading up the Jeep Grand Wagoneer in preparation for the journey back to Moorestown. But before they left, the entire family put on their swimsuits and trekked up to the beach for one last summer swim in the ocean.
It was a beautiful sunny day, and everyone had fun. The kids enjoyed riding waves on their floating rafts and playing bocce ball on the vast beach. The adults cherished their final summer walk along the shoreline, searching for their own treasures of unique seashells and colorful sea glass.
As the day progressed, the family enjoyed relaxing on their beach chairs while watching a regatta of sailboats racing offshore. The twin-hulled catamarans swiftly slipped through the gentle swells just beyond the surf line while racing around the expansive watercourse marked by three buoys.
The family also spent time reminiscing about the exciting events and activities that had happened since June.
Lisa mentioned, “Mayor Carrington stopped by the Fishin’ Pier Grille for breakfast yesterday. He told me that Frank Sharp … I mean, Franz Schmidt … remains in custody at the Cape May County Corrections Center for murdering of Sam Sharp in 1945 and for kidnapping me! He also said that there’s been talk that Mr. Schmidt might be deported back to Germany, but the mayor didn’t have any other details.”
In response, Liz looked at her daughter and said, “I’m sure that the authorities will do the right thing. But most of all, I’m just grateful that you’re OK.” Then, swiftly changing her tone, Liz added, “Anyways, based on everything you’ve told us, I think that you managed to have a pretty awesome summer at the shore. I love you, Lisa.”
“I have some related news that you might find interesting,” Christine added. “Yesterday, I spoke to the American Legion’s post commander. He said that the ownership rights to Sharp’s business and property were recently transferred to the Borough of Avalon by the court. Apparently, the authorities searched Sharp’s Fruits & Vegetables after Franz was incarcerated and found the original owner’s notarized Last Will and Testament. Interestingly, it specified that Sam Sharp’s estate was to be gifted to the Borough of Avalon upon his death.”
“When questioned, Franz Schmidt admitted that he hid the document after Sam died in 1945 so no one would doubt that he was the rightful heir.”
Dylan remarked, “Wow, that’s quite amazing since Sharp’s property isn’t even located on the island. Regardless, I wonder what the town will do with the property. Sharp’s market has certainly provided great goods and services to the islanders for many years.”
Christine continued, “I asked the commander the same question. He said that the town had already agreed to jointly lease the entire property at a very affordable rate to the American Legion Post and a local farmer. Together, they’ll be working during the summer months to run the fruit and vegetables market. And because the Legion has so many members and friends who have agreed to volunteer their time and services, the new tenants have pledged to donate a percentage of all future sales profits to assist not only the island’s storm victims but also veterans, military personnel, and other families who are in need.”
With a huge smile on her face, Christine said, “Can you believe it? This is wonderful news for the local community.”
Late in the afternoon, the family returned to Dylan and Christine’s home. The mood had understandably become a little downbeat since Liz, Mark, and the kids would soon be leaving the island. While the kids showered and dressed in preparation for the long drive home, Mark and Liz finished loading their vehicle.
An hour later, everyone gathered in the living room, where they embraced and said goodbye. As Liz hugged her parents, she said, “I love you, Mom and Dad. Thank you so much for having us this summer.”
Just as Dylan and Christine began expressing how great it was to have the family together for the summer, the telephone rang.
Mark picked up the receiver. “Hi, can I help you?” He stood in front of the family, simply nodding his head and repeating, “Yes,” “Wow,” “That’s very generous,” “Yes, sir, we definitely accept,” “The boys will be very happy to hear that,” “Thanks a million … uh, literally.”
When Mark hung up the phone, Dylan asked, “Who was that?”
Mark said, “Representative Crockett wanted to let us know how much he appreciated the boys’ efforts in finding the U-boat. He also thanked us again for promptly reporting the discovery to the authorities.”
Elizabeth commented, “That’s nice. Why didn’t you wish him a Happy Labor Day?”
Mark answered, “Well, I really didn’t have an opportunity. The congressman said that the government would like to recognize the boys’ discovery at a ceremony that will take place sometime in the near future. They’ll receive a large plaque and get their photo taken with the governor and other high-ranking military officers.” Johnny excitedly responded, “That’s awesome!”
Mark then took a deep breath before adding, “The congressmen also mentioned that because we acted with great honesty and integrity, and because we signed over all our rights concerning the discovery, the government plans to show its appreciation by giving our family … that is, everyone in this room … a small finder’s fee.
“Mr. Crockett indicated that the fee is intended to cover the expenses for replacing the damaged bulkhead and for any inconveniences that we may have experienced during the excavation project.”
Wayne looked curiously at his dad and asked, “What exactly do you mean by ‘small finder’s fee’?”
Mark responded, “Well, it’s actually a very generous monetary gift from the government to our family.” After taking a few seconds to calm his shaking voice, Mark continued, “We will be receiving a check for two and a half percent of the total assessed value of the entire discovery within the next week!”
Liz gave her husband a surprised glance and slowly said, “That’s two million dollars!”
Mark said, “Actually, the check will be slightly more than that.”
After taking a few minutes to fully comprehend the very large sum that they would soon receive, the family was stunned by this good fortune.
When the initial excitement and jubilation passed, the family agreed that they’d make certain to use the money for good and meaningful causes.
Finally, Liz and Mark told their excited children that it was time for everyone to get into the Wagoneer and head back home. Although the children were thrilled about the cool news and they really didn’t want to leave the shore house, they understood that school would be starting in a few days and that they had to go. So, after everyone exchanged heartfelt goodbyes, the Jeep drove away from the shore.
While en route, Liz asked the boys, “Did you two explorers really have a fun summer?”
Johnny responded that he’d had the best summer ever. Then, with a mischievous smile planted on his face, Wayne added, “Even though I had a great time, I can’t wait until next summer to find an even more amazing treasure!”
The whole family laughed out loud before Lisa said, “Dad, please put on some good music!”