It goes without saying that this has been a summer unlike any other, with so many challenges. Every day we are witness to the toll that this pandemic is taking on our country and the world – and how it’s impacting each of us in different ways, from the sad loss of lives and the worries that a loved one might catch COVID-19, to the rising unemployment rates and economic hardships that many Americans are facing.
Because “little things mean a lot” – especially during these difficult times – I encourage everyone to do what they can to lift up others and show the world what wonderful residents and visitors we have in Sea Isle City.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as checking in on a lonely neighbor, realizing that the “inconsiderate” driver you encountered on the road may have just lost his job, or simply offering a cheerful greeting to the people we pass on the sidewalk. A little kindness can go a long way and it can energize an entire community.
Another way we can benefit our community is by patronizing local businesses. As you probably realize, many resort business owners and their employees rely heavily on the summer season to sustain themselves; and local eateries, retailers and other small establishments are in need of your support.
So, please enjoy Sea Isle’s wonderful restaurants, shop in our fashion boutiques, buy that pound of fudge you’ve been craving, play some skee-ball or a round of miniature golf with your family, learn to standup paddle board, rent a surrey and cruise along the Promenade, take an outdoor fitness class, or walk through one of our gift shops. There is something for everyone here in Sea Isle City, so please support our local businesses any way you can.
I am happy to report that our Beach Replenishment Project is making good progress. Dredging operations have been completed in the middle of town from 28th to 52nd Street, and work is now underway in Sea Isle’s south end.
We anticipate that the entire project will be completed in 3-4 weeks, resulting in huge beaches with plenty of space for people to spread out and enjoy themselves. Once again, I would like to thank everyone for their patience as we add sand to our beaches and strengthen our shoreline.
If you are a Philadelphia sports fan, you are no doubt excited that the Phillies, Eagles, Sixers and Flyers all have plans to kick-start their seasons and resume play. But, did you know that the Philadelphia Flyers organization is coming to Sea Isle City?
On Monday, August 10, at 5:30 p.m., a socially-distant Flyers Mobile Pep Rally Parade will roll though our town – and it promises to be a lot of fun. The parade route will include the entire length of Park Road/Fish Alley, the 200 block of 48th Street, Central Avenue from 48th to 36th Street, the 200 block of 36th Street, and Cini Avenue from 36th Street to JFK Boulevard. So, pull out your favorite Flyers T-shirt, mark your calendars, and plan on being in Sea Isle City on August 10.
Here’s a “Shout Out” for singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, who just released her latest album “Folklore.” Many of us remember when Taylor and her family vacationed in Sea Isle City years ago, and we thank her for including a photo of herself in her latest video, which showed Taylor wearing a Sea Isle City sweatshirt as a young girl. We wish Taylor continued success in her career, and we look forward to her return to Sea Isle City in the future.
Please continue to practice social distancing and wearing face masks whenever you’re in public and you can’t keep 6 feet away from non-household members – and remember that we are all one Sea Isle City, and together we will be stronger than ever.
Sincerely,
Mayor Leonard Desiderio