iradiophilly | News - Philly Cancels Large Events Until Feb 2021; MDO Brian Abernathy Resigns; NJ Removes DE From List

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Philly Cancels Large Events Until Feb 2021; MDO Brian Abernathy Resigns; NJ Removes DE From List

by: iradioal - Philadelphia, PA
started: 07/14/20 6:46 pm | updated: 07/14/20 6:46 pm

Philadelphia officials announced that no large scale public events will be held in the city until at least February 28, 2021. The moratorium was set in place over concerns from coronavirus COVID-19. Iconic events such as the Broad Street Run, Philadelphia Marathon, Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the Mummer's on New Year's Day have been canceled. The order applies to all special events or gatherings on public property with 50 or more people. It includes festivals, parades, concerts, carnivals, fairs, flea markets, block parties, and more. The Office of Special Events will not be accepting any permits for special events or public gatherings. This order does not effect events on private property like venues, theaters, and stadiums; demonstrations or First Amendment activities; outdoor gatherings that are not publicly advertised like a wedding or picnic with < 50 people; organized outdoor recreation and sports with < 25. These activities are still bound by the requirements of the Health Department. The city right now is in a modified 'green' phase. Theaters and venues are still closed, so concerts and shows are not allowed anyway. Outdoor gatherings are currently limited to 50, so don't expect fans at any Phillies or Eagles games.

Philadelphia Managing Director Brian Abernathy announced his resignation on Tuesday, 7/14. City officials confirmed that and said it would be effective September 4th. He was appointed in January 2019 and previously served as First Deputy Managing Director since 2016. The managing director oversees the city's operational departments and day-to-day operations. His role had become very visible during the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic followed by social justice demonstrations and civil unrest. Protestors have been calling for his resignation over the city's handing of police use of force during May/June protests.

In his resignation letter, Abernathy said, "Our city has weathered tremendous hardship over the past several months. In a short period of time, we've faced a pandemic, the worst economic crisis in a century, and important but difficult civil unrest. At the same time, we've seen a worsening opioid crisis, pervasive homelessness, and a rising murder rate. Throughout these months, there have been too many nights and weekends where my daughters have wondered where I was, and I've placed too many burdens on my wife's shoulders. I love my job and my city and have made these sacrifices willingly, but 2020 has taken a toll on my family, on my mind, on my body, and on my soul."

"I thank Brian for his service to the City of Philadelphia," said Mayor Jim Kenney in a news release. "I've worked closely with many public servants throughout my career and few match Brian's level of integrity and commitment to making our city better. I particularly thank him for his tireless dedication while managing multiple unprecedented crises in the past four months. I will miss his counsel and measured leadership, and I wish him well on all of his future pursuits."

In a statement, "The Mayor's Office will conduct an organizational review of the structure of the Managing Directorâ€™s Office and plan a search process for the next Managing Director."

SEE: https://www.phila.gov/2020-07-14-city-announces-departure-of-managing-director-brian-abernathy/

New Jersey has removed Delaware from its 14-day quarantine list on Tuesday, 7/14. The state did add four more states including Minnesota, New Mexico, Ohio and Wisconsin. Pennsylvania added Delaware just a few days ago. Philadelphia separately added Delaware to its own list before that, but modified its order to allow for commuters to go back and forth to work while practicing extreme caution. If you do travel from a restricted state back into New Jersey or Pennsylvania you are being asked to self-quarantine for two weeks at home, hotel, or other lodging. You should monitor your health for any symptoms. You are allowed to leave to seek medical attention, purchase essential goods, and for food. If you do leave your home, make sure you wear a mask and social distance.