Letter From Mayor: Special Olympics, Peggy Lloyd and Red Raider Basketball

The following is the "Mayor's Update" of Feb. 22 (2013), an open letter to Ocean City taxpayers from Mayor Jay Gillian: 

Dear Friends,

This past Sunday the Aquatic and Fitness Center played host to a very special day of activities.  The annual Special Olympics Swim meet took place along with a recognition event for Ocean City resident, Peggy Lloyd. 

It is an honor for the City that the Aquatic Center is host to the Special Olympics meet, and I am proud to participate in the Opening Ceremonies as the Mayor.  Words cannot describe the excitement of the swimmers, their dedication to the sport, and the sportsmanship shown by all the participants regardless of the results of the races.  The event is truly exhilarating and I recommend everyone should experience or volunteer to assist at next year’s event. 

Over 60 swimmers from five surrounding counties participated on Sunday.  This event would not have been possible without the hard work of many dedicated people.  I want to take this opportunity to thank the many volunteers, the Aquatic and Fitness team members, our Ocean City Fire Department, and the parents and family members of the swimmers including our own Ocean City Stingrays.

The Special Olympics meet traditionally begins with a parade featuring all of the participating teams.  And this past Sunday was no different; except one of the parade enthusiasts included Ocean City’s own Peggy Lloyd exuberantly waving to each swimmer as they passed by her.  I was honored to be a part of a “thank you” celebration for Peggy’s contribution to the Community Center fund that helped to complete the pool renovations.

However, Peggy’s contribution goes far deeper than monetary.  To me, Peggy represents the true essence of volunteerism that exists in Ocean City.  No other municipality that I know of can boast the hundreds of volunteers that donate their time and efforts each year to make Ocean City such a unique and wonderful place to live.

Lastly, I would like to congratulate the Ocean City Girls High School Basketball team and coach Paul Baruffi.  The Lady Raiders won the first Group 3 State Championship in the High School’s history and earned a berth in the six team Tournament of Champions.  Congratulations again to these remarkable young women. We are all very proud of your accomplishments.

So on a day like Sunday, I was reminded of how special Ocean City is.  I was able to experience the thrill of local athletes, witness the commitment of our community volunteers, and spend time with Peggy Lloyd, a tireless humanitarian for Ocean City.  I am truly honored to serve as Mayor for this great community.

Warm regards,

Jay A. Gillian
Mayor