The Pews at Bradley Beach

Over the years it had become tacky and honky-tonk. This trip brings a pleasant surprise. The old hotels have been torn down and replaced by low-rise apartments. Except for a couple of refreshment stands, commercial frontage is gone from the waterfront. Friendly young cops patrol on bikes. The wooden boardwalk, frequently destroyed by storms, has been replaced by a paved promenade, on the shoreside of which stands a long line of new benches. Endowed by benefactors, they bear plaques; pews honoring deceased worshippers--

Selma Sophia Schwarz Schechne Artist, mother, wife, swimmer. With love from Richard, Carol, Sam and Sophia

In Europe there are such promenades on the beaches. I've been to Hove and Brighton where English families stroll with their dogs. In Scheveningen near the Hague is a huge casino and on the beach women sunbathe topless

In Honor of Joseph Mirne Whose heart belonged to Bradley Beach His loving children, Jeanette and Norm

In the afternoon the sun comes out and it is pleasant. We walk along the boardwalk. I stand at the railing watching the sea gulls and people on the beach, observing some people more than others

In Memory of Elsie Hanson Who loved the ocean Roy, Wendy and Ulla

Lovers. Their nearly naked bodies, sun warmed, folded together, holding a kiss so long that I begin to think they could stay under forever without coming up for air.

Always look beyond the last rope. The Burlington Avenue Bunch

A couple walking along the beach; the woman has long black hair, a thin dress over her bathing suit, the hair blowing and the dress loose and blowing about her legs.

In Memory of Hyman Stollman Who gave his love of ocean, beach and air to his children and grandchildren. Norma and Harold Arbit

Late in the afternoon, which is the best time, the gulls take over. There are small gulls gray on top and white underneath and large gulls as big as ducks, mostly white, but some beige speckled with black.

Jack Stein He loved his family, the beach, the sun, and Sugar Buns