To the editor:

Unfortunately, it’s part of our nature to procrastinate.

We put off many things, good and bad. But now, I can no longer keep silent, so get prepared for what is coming: Thank you, Gloucester.

You have improved the quality of life for all of us on Cape Ann.

I had the good fortune to attend this year’s first Downtown Block Party last Saturday night. It was spectacular. There was music everywhere, good food in abundance, (not to mention six little complimentary glasses of rum drinks from Ryan and Wood Distilleries) and folks having fun at every street corner and store front.

The town was alive with activity and I, for one, know that this kind of event does not occur by chance. It takes the imagination, creativity, hard work and perseverance of scores of individuals in the private and business sectors as well as the vision, cooperation and assistance of city government to make it happen.

That is no easy task to accomplish, and my hat is off to you as a municipality and business community.

While I’m on the subject, let me talk about fireworks. My family, friends and I (from Essex) have been lucky enough to attend all of Gloucester’s fireworks displays for the past 10 years.

Many of you have seen our big wooden camper parked on the boulevard down by the tennis courts for these events. We arrive early and leave late savoring the fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean, the serenity of the waves breaking along the shoreline and the beauty of the manicured Boulevard greensward and flower beds … not to mention the fireworks display itself.

We thank Gloucester for opening the city and extending such wonderful hospitality to all. Gloucester has made great strides in the last decade or so and should be proud of its accomplishments, not just with these events, but additional ones such as the Cape Ann Chamber’s successful Gloucester Waterfront Festival and the Gloucester Blues Festival. Those also add to the exciting offerings that make Gloucester such an inviting destination for tourists and locals alike.

I am happy to be your neighbor on Cape Ann and look forward to watching the city grow and beautify. Thanks for making all of us part of your success.

BOB COVIELLO
Essex
Essex Merchants Group