From the Editor
It’s been more than two months since the world as we knew it, came to a grinding halt. In many ways, we have adjusted. Virtual work and school, Zoom meetings, even Zoom “Happy hours” to catch up with friends. It’s hard to believe that just two months ago, most people had never even heard of “Zoom!” So many things are being done virtually that we had never imagined were possible.
Yet the loss is undeniable, both emotionally and economically. We crave face to face contact with friends, associates, and extended family, remembering hugs and handshakes that made us feel so connected. We also crave a return to our routines, our jobs, a paycheck, stability and assurance that the worst of this crisis is behind us.
Summer of 2020’s unofficial kickoff, Memorial Day weekend is guaranteed to look different than all the ones we’ve known before. We are left with no choice, other than to make the best of it. The margarita glass is still half full! The Jersey Shore offers breathtaking sunrises and sunsets on the bay, miles of beautiful beaches and recreational opportunities.
We may not be able to sit in our favorite restaurants yet, but picnicking is making a comeback! Last week, I picked up breakfast at the Windjammer and enjoyed it with my parents at a picnic table at Kennedy park in Somers Point, overlooking the bay. Our area is filled with scenic spots, many along the water, to enjoy a packed lunch, dinner or some takeout. Check out writer Steffen Klenk’s article on page 3 describing the Apps available to make scheduling take-out easier than ever at your favorite restaurants. Shore Local celebrates life at the Jersey Shore. It may be different, but it still offers tremendous opportunities for fun and adventure! Check out “10 Family Fun Activities” on page 6 of this issue. Also don’t miss the “Legend of the Jersey Shore Mermaid” on page 30 which includes followup activities for your children.
Memorial day is usually marked with parades and ceremonies, honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military.
But this year, due to the coronavirus, there will be far fewer in-person events. However, some groups and towns are finding creative ways to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation will host a Virtual Memorial Day Ceremony this Monday, May 25th at 11am. The event will be shared across our social media and on our website at njvvmf.org. Atlantic County has created a tribute video with excerpts from past Memorial Day ceremonies to share with veterans and the general public. The video is currently available on the county’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6Cl-X2p9GU and will be accessible from the county’s website Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25 at www.aclink.org.
It may look and feel a bit different this year, but our hearts remain grateful to all those who have sacrificed for our freedom. May God Bless America.
From our family to yours, Happy Memorial Day weekend!
Peace & Love,
Cindy
