St. Patrick’s Day Celebrated by N. Wildwood Throng

NORTH WILDWOOD — Weather was just like on the Emerald Isle, foggy and damp, Sat., March 17 for the city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, but colors shown bright as did smiles from the lads and lasses who marched up Atlantic Avenue.
The gala festival was reportedly the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the city’s history, according to Mayor Bill Henfey.
Grand Marshals of the parade were Rev. Joseph Wallace, president, of Notre Dame de la Mer and the student body of Wildwood Catholic High School. Joining in the line of march was Miss North Wildwood Grace Lederer.
For the 14th year, Dolly McGee sang the national anthems of the United States and Ireland. As she rendered the Irish anthem, Deputy Police Chief Matthew T. Gallagher and Firefighter Dominic McClain raised the Irish tricolors on the flagpole just west of the City Hall steps where dignitaries gathered.
Trevor Cooper, Wildwood Catholic High School student, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Guests who joined Henfey and Council President Patrick Rosenello included Joe Orlando, VFW post commander, Seamus Boyle, president, national Ancient Order of Hibernians, Mike Maguire, president, Division 1, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Cape May County, Chuck Meissler, president, Cape May County Emerald Society, Pat Monaghan, president, Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Tom Meelee, Knights of Columbus color guard, and Joe Rulio, president, Anglesea Irish Society.
Members of Wildwood High School’s Marching Band and Margaret Mace School Band joined the parade.
The Sightseer (“Watch the Tram Car, Please”) transported a group of seniors along the parade. They waved at well wishers who lined the street.
Duffy String Band strummed and strutted as their music filled the air.
As in years past, a replica of the sailing vessel Jeanie Johnston, “Savior of 2 million souls” was towed behind a pickup truck, presented by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and city.
Adding to the parade were the flashing lights and sirens of many fire and rescue vehicles from near and far, all helping to do their part to make the parade an enjoyable one.