To the Editor:

Contrary to the many changes to the Island over the years both in population and building development, I am happy to know that some things never change. One of those things is the tale of the summer lifeguard. Men, women and children of every age are drawn to “the chair,” and there have been more than a few lifelong relationships begun by guards and those whom they have set out to watch and protect.

Long before it was discovered that females could also rescue distressed swimmers, lifeguards were exclusively male, at least in Beach Haven. And looking back through my childhood lenses, they were all so tall, tan and handsome!

That brings me to the story of my Aunt Mary, who lived for the summer to see Sandy, the lifeguard on 16th Street near our house in Beach Haven.

May 21, 2014