A new era unfolded in Harvey Cedars Jan. 5 when John M. Imperiale was named mayor, as it marked the first time in more than 30 years that a new person was handed the gavel.

He takes the seat formerly occupied by Jonathan Oldham, who lost a reelection bid as a write-in candidate. Victors in the election were Imperiale, Paul G. Rice and newcomer Joseph F. Gieger. They were all sworn in at the meeting by Wes Smith, a retired pastor and current police department chaplain.