Letter From Mayor: Philippine Sister City Needs Help

November 27, 2013

Dear Friends:

Earlier this week I welcomed Deputy Consul Zaldy Patron of the Philippine Consulate in New York to my office.  Mr. Patron updated us on the devastating effects Typhoon Haiyan has had on his nation.  Ocean City has a sister city relationship with San Jose Occidental Mindoro in the Philippines.  Fortunately, this city was not severely damaged, but much of the rest of the country was. 

The people of the Philippines desperately need assistance and will for quite some time.  Our local group OCNJ C.A.R.E. is accepting donations to assist the relief effort.   Donations can be mailed to OCNJ C.A.R.E., P.O. Box 807, Ocean City, NJ 08226 or at www.ocnjcare.org. Specify “Philippine Relief” in the memo line of your check.  OCNJ C.A.R.E. will direct their donations to relief organizations recommended by the Philippine Consulate General.

I would like to thank our Public Relations Director Mark Soifer for fostering our positive relationship with the Philippines and promoting this relief effort.

A reminder to join us in Downtown Ocean City this Friday for “Christmas in the Downtown – Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue.”  Enjoy the start of the holiday season with caroling, free horse and carriage rides, a visit from the Phillie Phanatic and great merchant specials.  Santa will arrive on the roof of City Hall at 5 pm when the Fire Department will assist him down to light the City Hall Christmas tree. 

I encourage you to support our local merchants Friday and throughout the season.

I wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.

Have a great weekend.

Warm regards,

Jay A. Gillian
Mayor