By MADDY VITALE
Sea Isle City is hosting a “Drive-by Celebration” -- a parade of sorts -- to honor and recognize graduates, since many formal commencement ceremonies have been canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mayor Leonard Desiderio will lead a “Graduation Parade” through the city on Wednesday, June 17, starting at 1 p.m.
The parade route will travel past the homes of 2020 graduates, from college, high school and eighth grade.
In the city's E-newsletter June 9, Desiderio said, “As we approach the middle of June, we must face the fact that students won’t be able to participate in traditional graduation ceremonies and other time-honored gatherings that celebrate their achievements.”
He added, “We’ll be driving through Sea Isle City with a fire engine and other city vehicles and stopping in front of the homes of any graduate who is signed up for our special Graduation Parade."
Families are invited to sign up their graduating students before the parade.
Desiderio noted that a local parent, Peggy Dunner, who did not wish to receive credit, brought the idea to the city.
“Obviously, this is an unusual year for everyone, but when given the suggestion to host a special parade for local graduates, the mayor didn’t hesitate to say, ‘Yes, let’s do it,’” explained Sea Isle Public Information Officer Katherine Custer. “Sea Isle City is a wonderful community, and this is just one of many wonderful events that make it such a warm environment for all.”
Custer added, “This won’t be a true substitute for commencement exercises, but we hope it will bring some joy to our graduates and remind them of their achievements.”
On Sea Isle City’s Facebook page
www.facebook.com/visitsicnj/ several people posted comments about the parade.
“Great job Mayor & SIC,” Christine Franklin said.
“Very nice,” Linda Schneider-Kaiser posted.
Eileen Walsh simply said, “So Sweet.”
To register your home for this “Drive-by Celebration,” email the student’s complete name, the school they attended, the address and a contact phone number to [email protected] before 12 noon on June 16. If you have any questions, call 609-263-8687, ext. 103.
