A Tradition Restored … and more

Jean Rowand salutes the flag while listening to the Star Spangled Banner followed by Kate Smith’s digitally remastered version of God Bless America over the new boardwalk sound system. Jean spent her 2 weeks in July in her beloved Wildwood by-the-Sea

Thanks to Patrick Rosenello, head of the Special Improvement District on the Boardwalk, for returning Kate Smith and “God Bless America,” to the morning announcements on the Boardwalk!

At 11 a.m. each day, we will now hear “The Star Spangled Banner,” followed by Kate and then “Oh Those Wildwood Days.”

The first time I heard the tribute to America in Wildwood was in 1992. My daughter, Susan, suggested sharing a place for a week down the shore with her two children. My granddaughter, Suzanne was just 3 and my grandson, Jonathan, was almost 2. My son-in-law, Joe, would only be able to join us for a day or so.

An ad in a local newspaper led to a small, two bedroom place on the second floor of a duplex on East 18th Avenue, “steps from the beach and boardwalk.” We signed on, sight unseen. The house was set way back from the street, between a motel and a larger duplex. Even though Susan was driving very slowly, we almost missed it! But, the ad was true! Standing on the 2nd floor front porch, angled just right, looking between the motel’s walkways, we could see the beautiful Atlantic! We were thrilled. Unpacking was quickly accomplished so we could “hit the Boards.” We were all dazzled and stayed out late.

Relaxing on Sunday morning, I thought I heard Kate Smith singing, “God Bless America.” I was pleased to think someone nearby was playing oldies or perhaps listening to a big band era radio station.

I was relieved to hear that music because we were worried about late-night noise, being next to a motel with a pool. (That fear was unfounded. The motel was very quiet at night.)

Imagine my surprise when, on Monday, at the same time, Kate was again singing; and was that the National Anthem I heard first?! What was this? I walked outside and realized the music was coming from the speakers on the Boardwalk. My heart and eyes filled up. After that, I made sure to be near a window, or outside, or better yet, on the Boardwalk to hear the songs and announcements each morning of our stay. What a great way to start another day in wonderful Wildwood.

We have continued our annual vacation since then, increasing it to two weeks the very next year. One week was simply not enough!

A few years ago, Miss Smith was missing from the morning tradition. I couldn’t find out why until I mentioned it to Dorothy Kulisek, the editor of The SUN. Dorothy put me in touch with Patrick Rosenello who then explained to me that the new sound equipment and an old recording couldn’t be used together. To my delight, he made me aware that he had already been working on fixing the problem!

Hearing those patriotic songs brings pride in America and thankfulness for our freedoms.

Standing in front of that vast ocean, hand over heart, with fellow Americans, is a moving experience; one that will now continue. God has truly blessed this nation. Hopefully, we take that moment each morning to pause, thank Him and all those who serve to ensure that freedom. And, thank you, Patrick, for returning Kate Smith and her powerful voice to the Wildwoods!