I received a phone call just at sunset from my friend Rosemary “Rosie” Chalmers two weeks ago. Usually Rosie is in bed at that time as she rises at 3 a.m. Monday through Friday in order to open her broadcasting studio by 5 a.m.
Rosie has maintained this schedule for the past 33 years, hosting Good Morning Monterey Bay, a program that has kept the listeners in Santa Cruz County and elsewhere, appraised of “what’s happening locally, as well as around the world.”
“You will never believe this, Colly,” Rosie uttered. “I have been chosen Woman of the Year by Assemblywoman Gail Pellerin, but why? I’ve done nothing to deserve this…there are sooo many more worthy,” she lamented.
Knowing Rosie, that night she had very little sleep before waking at 3 a.m. to read through the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, San Francisco Examiner and our own Santa Cruz Sentinel newspapers in order that she might keep you, her listeners, appraised on the latest up to date happenings.
During the devastating floods, earthquake and fires over these past 33 years, Rosie, along with her Catahoula hound dog named Hula, left her home and lived in the radio studio on Portola Drive, broadcasting minute by minute events to our residents, what was happening and where you could go for help.
Rosie brings on to her station, people who are “in the know”…those who can give us gardening, food, books to read, astrologists, veterinarian advice, music and musicians, restaurants and even how to dispose of our trash.
Rosie is an advocate for the downtrodden, both our homeless and our beloved animals. I have watched her collect clothing for those without, and supplies for the animal shelters.
Rosie spends time shopping and cooking for and visiting friends in the hospital and nursing home, sharing whatever she has, with others in need.
I believe I can say this to be true…one of the most important decisions Rosie has made was that of becoming an American Citizen. Not that she didn’t love her homeland England, but she believes if you chose a country to live in, one should become a citizen and support that country.
The Reader’s Digest had an article by Alex Haley, “The Most Unforgettable Character I’ve met,” which read, “These characters enriched lives through humor, wisdom, adventure and affection. Each possessing a unique regard for humanity, each a gem reflecting its own light.”
I, myself, see Rosemary Chalmers as the most unforgettable character I have ever met and most importantly, as a trusted friend in a most complicated world.
Congratulations Rosemary Chalmers, awarded the 2023 California’s 28th District Woman of the Year and designated as our “Unsung Hero” by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin.
Hear Rosie on santacruzvoice.com and the free app available soon.
Colly Gruczelak, a Ben Lomond resident, loves people and loves to cook. Contact her at [email protected].
