OCEAN CITY, NJ – New Jersey residents, led by organizers Kathleen Harper and Nancy Hutchinson, is coming together for a memorial event. “Save the East Coast” invites residents to a tree decorating and lighting ceremony on December 9th at 2pm on the 9th Street beach.
This event will pay tribute to the whales, dolphins, and other marine life that have perished since December 2022, believed to have been affected by offshore wind development.
The gathering aims to provide a space for reflection and remembrance, fostering community spirit in the face of environmental challenges. Participants are encouraged to bring shell or sea life-themed ornaments to adorn the tree, or they can decorate clam shells provided at the event. The ceremony will include Christmas carols, cookies, and hot chocolate, culminating in the lighting of the tree at sunset as a symbol of remembrance and hope.
This family-friendly event will begin with a prayer and conclude with a candlelight vigil, accompanied by the singing of “Silent Night.” It serves as an opportunity for the community to honor the lost marine life and to embrace the holiday season with a sense of unity and hope.
The memorial is a reminder of the environmental impact of human activities and a call to cherish and protect marine ecosystems. The Ocean City community looks forward to welcoming everyone to this meaningful event.