Fond Memories

I Remember How Irving Loved That Park

Vin, thanks so much for this site! I grew up in NYC, and my parents
were friends of Irving and Gladys Rosenthal. I spent many a day there
-- my dad was Programming Vice President for WPIX TV, and they did
some shows out there. I'd always go with my dad when they were
filming -- usually with some of my young friends. Irving would always
give us a pass to all the rides in the park and a $10 bill for
incidentals, and turn us loose while my dad was handling the filming.
It was safe as houses -- it was clear the park employees kept an eye
on kids, (this was in the 60s) -- and my friends and I always had a
great time.

I remember how Irving loved that park. He'd walk through it and pick
up trash as he went. He was very hands on. Every year, the roller
coaster was checked and repaired. The first car to go over the tracks
had a sack of potatoes in it. The next run always carried Irving.

You know, I'm sure, though it is not reflected in the FAQ, that
Gladys Shelley was Irving's wife, and the Palisades jingle (with
different lyrics) was originally the theme song for the Broadway play
"Enter Laughing". My recollection is that she wrote the score for
that musical.

Thanks for the memories. My dad is 94 now, and we still often share
stories of Irving and Gladys.

Regards,
Diotima Booraem