We have some news that will make you smile! A Wisconsin-born musician with family ties to Algoma has written an original song for our Save the Catwalk campaign. “Bring Back The Catwalk,” written and performed by John Dean, made its debut at our Oktoberfest party on October 17 at the Algoma Boat Club. Now we are excited to share it with you! The music video features original photos of Algoma’s harbor taken by our own co-chair, Dennis Andre.
Watch and Listen
Watch and listen to “Bring Back The Catwalk” on YouTube, or scan the code with your phone. We think you will love it!
How the Song Came to Be
The song grew out of a family connection. John’s sister, Mary Novak, lives right here in Algoma with her husband, Randy. Mary is a retired special education teacher from Algoma Elementary School, so some of you may know her. She sings in the St. Mary Parish choir and plays flute in the Algoma Community Band, where she got to know Dennis.
Mary’s brother John often writes songs “when his sister asks nicely.” Many of his songs find their way onto Facebook, and that is where Dennis first heard John’s music. Knowing Mary, Dennis asked whether John might write a song for the catwalk. John researched our campaign and agreed, and with help from Mary on the lyrics, “Bring Back The Catwalk” was born.
Dennis and John collaborated on the video. Dennis, an avid fisherman, captured the photos during his many fishing trips to the harbor. As you listen and watch, we hope the beautiful photos remind you why we are working to Save the Catwalk, and inspire you to support our campaign.
About the Musician
Music has been part of John’s life from the start. He grew up in Weyauwega in a large, musically inclined family that sang together, and he played guitar in a band while studying English at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. He enjoys all kinds of music and is especially fond of the Beatles. He has published songs on ReverbNation, and he recently wrote a song in honor of his mother’s 106th birthday! Well done, Mother Dean!
Years ago, John traveled to Thailand to visit his brother Mike, who has lived there for more than 30 years. While John was there, he met his wife. After they wed, they returned to Wisconsin and lived and worked in Madison. After several years, they decided to return to Thailand, which they now call home.
John & Mary Are Helping Us. Will You?
“It was my pleasure to write a song for the town of Algoma, as my sister and her husband live there. I wish the city best of luck in rebuilding the catwalk.”
John Dean
In addition to writing the song, John has made a very generous donation to our campaign. He has also given us permission to use “Bring Back The Catwalk” as long as it helps the catwalk. Thank you, John and Mary!
If the song moves you, please share it with your family and friends, and consider making a donation to help us restore the catwalk. We cannot do it without you!
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