To the Editor:

I wonder if New Jersey residents are aware they are the only ones who don't have an official state song or multiple state songs.

Bills dictating a state song in some form or another have been languishing in the Legislature for at least 18 years. This might seem like a minor issue, but I believe the state can use some positive publicity after so much negative news. There now is a grassroots effort to breathe new life into these bills and shine a light on Jersey pride.

Several bills currently address the issue. Some designate official songs as follows: “New Jersey, My Home,” by Patrick Finley, state anthem; “In New Jersey,” lyrics inspired by former fourth graders, state children’s song; “New Jersey, USA,” by Nelson Trout, state ballad; and “Be Proud To Be In New Jersey,” by Mark Winter, state popular song. (Other bills cite “I’m From New Jersey by Joseph “Red” Mascara,” who wants his to be the lone state song.)

Sen. James Whelan, D-Atlantic, and Assemblywoman Linda Stender, D-Union, head the respective legislative committees that can consider the bills. This is such a simple issue I cannot believe the Legislature cannot muster enough votes to just pass a bill and shine a positive light on New Jersey again. There simply is no downside.

I urge all New Jersey residents who take pride in their state to contact Whelan at SenWhelan@njleg.org and Stender at AswStender@njleg.org.

Eileen Bennett

Mauricetown

