Dear Friends,Today’s storm is beginning to move away, and the forecast looks good through the coming week. Ocean City businesses are open and the city is decorated for the holidays. Remember to visit our local restaurants, and if you are visiting family out of town, bring some favorite treats from Ocean City shops.First Night is a little more than a week away, and if you have not purchased admission buttons for your family, there is still time to do so. You can order your buttons online at firstnightocnj.com or by calling 1-609-399-6111. Buttons also can be purchased in person at the City Hall Welcome Center at Ninth Street and Asbury Avenue, the Roy Gillian Welcome Center on the Ninth Street causeway, and at the 46th Street Welcome Center.Online registration is also open for the
First Day 5K Run. The race will start at 1 p.m. and race-day registration will be 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Registration for the 2 p.m. First Plunge in the Atlantic Ocean also will be at the Music Pier.Because Christmas and New Year’s Day fall on Tuesdays, there will be a change to the regular schedule of trash and recycling pickup. Regularly scheduled pickup will be pushed back by one day for most residents. See more information.I’m sad to report that Joseph Firmani passed away earlier this week. Joe was a long-time Ocean City resident and ranger at the Ocean City Municipal Golf Course. Michele and I would like to extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends and thank him for his service to Ocean City.Michele and I also would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Please take the time to enjoy the holidays with your family, neighbors and friends. Warm regards,Mayor Jay A. Gillian
