It’s been eight months since the governor declared a public health emergency as a result of COVID-19, and as everyone is aware, we’re in the midst of a surge in cases throughout the region and the country. It’s a reminder to all of us not to get complacent with this.
While treatment has advanced, and we’re on the verge of a vaccine, we need to remember that there are many people out there who are very vulnerable to the effects of this virus.
Yesterday, the governor issued additional restrictions on bars and restaurants. Effective this Thursday, indoor dining will be prohibited after 10 p.m. and bar seating will be prohibited at all hours. Bars and restaurants will still be subject to indoor dining restrictions limiting capacity to 25 percent.
The governor also prohibited all indoor interstate athletic events.
In light of all that’s going on, we decided that this year’s Veterans Day ceremony will be held virtually. To honor our veterans, we’ve produced a very nice tribute that can be viewed starting tomorrow morning. It will be posted on our website and other social media, and I encourage everyone to view this production.
As I stated at the last council meeting, we had to cancel this year’s Christmas Extravaganza and Tree Lighting Ceremony; but we will get a visit from Santa Claus the Friday after Thanksgiving, when he’ll parade from 29th to 93rd Street along Landis Avenue.
Also, the weekend before Thanksgiving, Friday November 20 to Sunday November 22, will be Girls Weekend in Sea Isle. This event has about 40 participating businesses, and offers the opportunity to take advantage of huge discounts on retail, salon services, restaurants, and more.
Unfortunately, I must announce that this year’s New Year’s Eve celebration at the former public school and our New Year’s Eve fireworks are canceled. Everyone knows how crowded these events are, and clearly it’s not in everyone’s best interest to hold these celebrations.
Despite these cancellations and restrictions, we need to remain positive. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Sea Isle has done a great job as a community getting through a year like no other, and I couldn’t be prouder. As we enter the holiday season, I ask everyone to remember that we are all one Sea Isle City – and together we will be stronger than ever.
Sincerely,
Mayor Leonard Desiderio
