Families hit the shore, support businesses on Memorial Day
OCEAN CITY, New Jersey (WPVI) -- Clouds stole most of the sunshine and a chill in the air kept masses from the beach in Ocean City, New Jersey on Memorial Day.
Along the boardwalk, the sounds of a flute soothed those passing by.
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else Memorial Day weekend," said Marie Sacks-Wilner.
But the mask covering Sacks-Wilner's face is a reminder of the pandemic that's severely impacted the unofficial start to summer.
"I feel a little better and I feel it's respectful to the people that come up and listen to me," said Sacks-Wilner.
But it is not music to the business owner's ears.
"It's been challenging because we're curbside only, as you see, so we have access and the customers only have access to 5% of our total store," said Don Milora, owner of By the Sea.
The sparse crowds in Ocean City were much different than the scene in Sea Isle City as areas remained closed off to prohibit large gatherings.
"There aren't many New Jerseyans here. (I) was watching the tags as I was coming down," said Lula Herbert, of Pittsgrove.
Herbert took in the serene beach, her biggest gripe was the face masks, but not for the reasons you might think.
"You can't see a person smile under this mask, so you don't know if there's a friendly expression or not," she said.
There wasn't much smiling for two business owners in Wildwood. Police cited them for violating the governor's orders for short-term rentals after "several warnings."
As for business on the boardwalk and beach, many were just grateful to get outside to spend time with loved ones.
"I'm very thankful for everything that has happened and the steps that we've taken to get to where we are right now," said Russ Dunchock, of Philadelphia.
MORE COVID-19 COVERAGE
CDC offers new guidance on how summer camps can, should operate amid pandemic
Can you catch coronavirus in a public restroom? Here's what experts say
Sisters thank nurse who took care of dying mother during COVID-19 fight
WHO pauses hydroxychloroquine study due to safety concerns
Share your coronavirus story with Action News
For more updates related to the coronavirus, visit 6abc.com/coronavirus.
