Mayor Jay Gillian Discusses Chris Herron, Sandy Playground Project

Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian posted the following message on the city's website Friday night:

Dear Friends:
 
Yesterday and today the Ocean City Education Foundation gave local youth and parents the opportunity to hear Chris Herron of the Herron Project speak.  Many of you no doubt know of Mr. Herron’s story. 

He was an outstanding college and professional basketball player who fell victim to alcohol and drug addiction, losing nearly everything, including his life. 

Drug-free and alcohol-free since 2008, Chris has refocused his life to helping others deal with and avoid substance abuse.  His speaking engagements across the country deliver a powerful and memorable message to those in attendance.
 
I would like to thank the Education Foundation for make this program possible.  This group of volunteers does outstanding work raising funds to enhance and expand opportunities for Ocean City School District students.
 
Next week the Where Angels Play Foundation will be in Ocean City to build a new playground at 29th Street and West Avenue.  This program was founded and created by the New Jersey FMBA.  The Foundation was inspired by the senseless violence in December of 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary.

School in Newtown , Connecticut.   Ocean City’s playground will reflect the life and personality of Benjamin Wheeler, one of the students who tragically lost his life that day.
A Groundbreaking Ceremony for the playground will take place on Thursday, May 15th at 10:00 am.  Construction will follow over the next three days.  A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will be held on Sunday May 18th at 11:00 am.  Volunteers will be needed to help with this project.  No pre-registration is necessary
 
I would like to thank our local FMBA #27 , and their President John Murphy, for bringing this project to Ocean City.
 
Have a great weekend and Happy Mother’s Day to all moms!