On The Silly Side By Jimmy Del Ponte

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of The Somerville News belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville News, its staff or publishers.)

Memorial Day is a solemn occasion – it is a day that we remember the men and women who gave their lives – the ultimate sacrifice – for our country. As we all kept that in mind, we also took time out to celebrate their memory and their honor – let’s not forget why we had the parade in the first place.

2.3 miles – that is what someone told me was the distance from City Hall to the reviewing stand at the Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery on Clarendon Hill. My day started out with a hello to Grand Marshall – Mr. James O’Donovan. I then marched, and waved with the Somerville Highlander Band, led by Rosemary Sears and Rick Saunders. These two wonderful teachers and mentors did a fabulous job rehearsing and preparing these kids for their big day – for many it was their first parade. This city is very lucky to have such dedicated and talented instructors sharing their talent with our kids. Congratulations also to my son Joey – who played the alto saxophone in his first parade.

We were standing in the street lining up for about half an hour – we were right in front of what used to be ‚ÄúNan’s Sub Shop.‚Äù If it had still been there, this small Italian would have wolfed down a large Italian.

May I say that Mayor Curtatone (just back from his trip to Italy), Frank Senesi, Cathy Carey and everyone involved in planning Sunday’s extravaganza outdid themselves – it was Somerville at it’s best. What’s better than a parade – especially on a picture perfect glorious day? It seemed like the whole city was out to watch – everyone seemed to be in a good mood and having a blast! I do hope that guy who was sitting on the edge of the roof of that building near Lowell Street kept his balance.

It was a day for kissing, smiling and handshaking. Many of our dedicated elected officials walked the parade route – some passing out flags and some just saying hello to friends along the way. As we passed the bank at the corner of Cedar Street, I was wishing it was still Friendly’s – so I could pop in for a quick Fribble. It was such a great parade – even the Feeney family came over from Medford to enjoy it!

One of the most memorable sights had to be the city sidewalk sweeper that followed the horses – a very strategic move, indeed. The extended ladder truck over Davis Square was quite impressive as well. Steve De Carlo was diligently manning the cameras catching every step so we can all enjoy the parade again on cable TV. Thanks to Carla at Johnny D’s for providing ice cold water for the marchers!

Memories of Freddy D and The Venice also brought a smile to my face. One of the highlights for me was seeing my dear friend Marie Howe Рif Somerville had a queen, it would surely be Marie Рwe all love her. Something happened to me as the parade paused in Teele Square…for a minute I swear I could actually hear the Old Jumbo Lounge calling me in for a cold one.

The Shriners pulled out all the stops this year – God bless these men for all their dedication to the community and for the work they do for sick children. God Bless the Gold Star Mothers who always bring a lump to the throat as they pass by.

After my son’s band members did their thing at the reviewing stand, we enjoyed the rest of the parade with Tom Champion, the Caruso Family, the Mayor and other city dignitaries.

For me, the biggest thrill was seeing Bobby Hardy, Commander of George Dilboy Post 529, with his Vietnam Veterans group pass by – as they have done every year for as long as I can remember. It was then that I really felt proud and grateful to be an American, and a Somerville resident. Thanks again Bob – and everyone else who made Memorial Day 2008 so special. Sunday was a great day for Somerville and this great country. God Bless America.

Please e-mail your comments to Jimmy at: jimmydel@rcn.com