A Welcome from Mayor Gary Engelstad

Hello!

I was approached a few days ago by a group of Bradley Beach residents who just wanted to use their gifts and talents to create something that would be an informative and maybe a little fun as well as we all push through this historically difficult time.

As a Shore town, we are used to challenges, but they are usually weather related and so the storm comes, and the storm goes, and we make sure everyone is ok and then there is a morning after.  We clean up, the power comes back on and life returns to normal.  This “storm” is different, but our response is the same.  We make the necessary sacrifices in terms of adhering to social distancing and giving up access to our beautiful boardwalk and we look out for each other.  We just don’t know when the storm will end and when the morning after will take place.  That’s exactly why a little diversion like this is much needed.

We are all in good hands with a first-class police department.  I think the Governor is doing an incredible job, making difficult choices and educating us daily.  Our state is suffering more than most and our prayers go out to those who are gone and the too many who will follow.  Keep doing the right things – social distancing and hand washing, it’s almost too simple. 

Please do your best to support our businesses that are still allowed to remain open.  This especially applies to our restaurants and eateries that are doing their best to try to make a few dollars with takeout options.  We take them for granted and now is not the time to do so.  We all want them still here in a few months when hopefully we will have our morning after.

I look forward to the writings, features, artwork that will be showcased on this blog.  This is not social media where snarky comments can be contributed.  It’s positive and upbeat and demonstrates togetherness, all qualities that help define Bradley Beach!  I’m going to follow this intro letter up with a funny story about how New Jersey impacted me before I even thought about living here.

Gary