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Employers see what Reservists do at NWS Earle
LEONARDO - Union Beach Police Chief Scott Woolley was one of the employers of reservist Sailors who attended a day long introduction to the life of a Sailor at the R4A complex at NWS Earle's waterfront complex, and came away from the event with a new appreciation for what reservists do in their "other life."
One of the borough's police officers, Ptl. Lisa Griffin, is BU2 Lisa Griffin, a member of the Navy's Reserve Construction Force, a rating that works as carpenters, plasterers, roofers, concrete finishers, masons, painters, bricklayers and cabinet makers.
In addition to employers of reservist Sailors, volunteers with ESGR, the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, were treated to the special day Aug. 7, as guests of NOSC, the Navy Operational Support Center at Earle.
Commanding Officer CDR Bob Lyon welcomed the group, explaining it is home to 13 Reserve units and includes 300 reservists, of which 86, or approximately 28 per cent are currently deployed. He was joined by CAPT Ken Skaggs, CO of NOSC Fort Dix, who noted another 1500 reservists train at that base, of which approximately 9 per cent are currently deployed. Both commanding officers pointed out the Reservists have a mission to be ready and prepared to be called and their monthly training ensures that is accomplished. They praised the employers for their support of military employees, and thanked them for their compliance with regulations that require specific treatment and privileges for returning reservists after deployment.
Following a continental breakfast and an informal get together with the officers and other staff members at NOSC, the guests enjoyed a static display of equipment used by Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 12 Boat Detachment, a display and explanation of weapons used by the Naval Security Force NWS Earle Reserve unit, an exhibition by MA1 Michael Fennell and MA3 Michael Fite of the Canine Patrol unit of Security, and a tour of the USNS Supply which was docked at the pier. They then returned to the Bay Breeze, an MWR (Morale, Welfare, Recreation) facility at the waterfront, where they had lunch with the reservists, and back to R4A where the employers signed voluntary Statements of Support and received certificates to post in their buildings showing that support. Members of ESGR explained the role they play in assisting both Reservists returning to their civilian occupations after active duty service, as well as employers who might have questions or concerns about the rights and obligations of men and women returning to civilian occupations after prolonged absences mandated by their military duty.
"It was a great day, I certainly learned a lot," Chief Woolley said, "It was nice to be here and see what goes on. We've always had great pride in our officers who perform double duty," he continued, "but it was interesting to see what goes on during their weekends with the Navy."
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Governor Christie signs Offshore Wind Economic Development Act
Trenton - Today, Governor Chris Christie continued his commitment to grow and strengthen New Jersey's economy by utilizing and promoting energy initiatives as key to the State's technology future by signing the Offshore Wind Economic Development Act.
The bipartisan measure will spur economic growth in the Garden State through the development of renewable energy resources and the creation of green jobs. The legislation will establish an offshore wind renewable energy certificate program (OREC) and will make available financial assistance and tax credits from existing programs for businesses that construct manufacturing, assemblage and water access facilities to support the development of qualified offshore wind projects.
"The Offshore Wind Economic Development Act will provide New Jersey with an opportunity to leverage our vast resources and innovative technologies to allow businesses to engage in new and emerging sectors of the energy industry," said Governor Christie." Developing New Jersey's renewable energy resources and industry is critical to our state's manufacturing and technology future. My Administration will maintain a strong commitment to utilizing energy as industry in our efforts to make our State a home for growth, as well as a national leader in the windpower movement."
"This is a terrific step for New Jersey,'' said DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. "It makes us a leader environmentally, while at the same time providing New Jersey with a major economic boost from jobs that surely will be created by this green industry. Certainly, we would rather have wind turbines, and the environmental and economic benefits they offer, than oil rigs off the coast of New Jersey.''
"We are far ahead of most other states in developing a technology that is better for the environment and will help the state's economy,'' Commissioner Martin said.
The bill directs the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to develop an offshore renewable energy certificate program that calls for a percentage of electricity sold in the state to be from offshore wind energy. This percentage would be developed to support at least 1,100 megawatts of generation from qualified offshore wind projects.
Through the legislation, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) will provide financial assistance to qualified offshore wind projects and associated equipment manufacturers and assembling facilities.
Primary sponsors of S-2036 are Senator Stephen M. Sweeney (D-Salem, Cumberland, Gloucester) and Senator Thomas H. Kean, Jr. (R-Essex, Morris, Somerset).
"New Jersey already is a national leader in solar energy production, and now we will have the ability to finally tap into the potential of our offshore winds and become a leader in this emergent technology," said Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem). "The disaster in the Gulf of Mexico opened our eyes to the need for clean, sustainable energy that we can produce here at home. Not only will this law make New Jersey even more energy independent, it will also bring vital new jobs to the state at a time when we need them the most."
"Clean energy technologies will help generate economic growth, now and in the future. Countries like China are already investing heavily and the U.S. should too if it wants to reap the benefits and not fall behind," Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr. (R-Union) stated. "As a matter of principle, we must take this opportunity to use the emerging new energy economy to create jobs and careers right here in New Jersey and not overseas."
In June, Governor Christie signed a Memorandum of Understanding with other nine other East Coast governor's establishing the Atlantic Offshore Wind Energy Consortium to facilitate federal-state cooperation for commercial wind development on the Outer Continental Shelf off of the Atlantic coast.
Three of the first five "interim policy leases'' approved by the federal government to explore offshore wind projects are for tracts located off the coast of New Jersey, well-positioning the state and region to tap into the industry's enormous potential, creating thousands of manufacturing, construction and operations jobs of the future.
In April, Governor Christie outlined an energy policy for the state of New Jersey that emphasizes in-state production of renewable and traditional energy sources to create a stronger economy and jobs by making energy more affordable, more reliable, and more often produced by New Jersey workers.
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Summer of 100 Parties “heats up”
Little Silver - Amanda and Peter Haytaian hosted a fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County's (BGCM) Summer of 100 Parties on Friday, August 8.
The Haytaian's welcomed 80 friends, community members and local dignitaries into their Little Silver home to share their love for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County.
"As a proud member of the Board, I am continually grateful and humbled by the support of my friends and fellow community members to an organization I so strongly believe in.," said Beth Goodes, BGCM Board of Director. "After being introduced to the Club just last year, the Haytaian's continue to show their belief in the Boys & Girls Clubs. The amazing effort they put forth to make this evening such a success only solidifies their confidence in the Clubs ability to carry out its mission to provide safe places for young people in Monmouth County."
Robert Taylor, Executive Director also gives his thanks to the Haytaians'. "We rely on friends and donors to share and celebrate the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County with their friends in the community who aren't familiar with the programs and services we provide every day. It was great to have Senator Joe Kyrillos and wife, Susan Doctorian Kyrillos in attendance, as well as the generous $1,000 donation from Amerigroup and its executives."
Taylor shared with guests the Club's greatest accomplishment in 2009 - opening the Red Bank Unit, located on Drs. James Parker Boulevard, this past September. With the opening of the new Red Bank Unit, an additional 150 Monmouth County kids have access to BGCM's life-enhancing programs.
For more information on the Clubs or to host a Summer of 100 Parties fundraiser, please contact Kelli Very at kelliv@bgcmonmouth.org or visit bgcmonmouth.org.
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New Jersey's FAQ "What's Your Exit?"
"What's your exit?" a common question that comes from New Jerseyians and those familiar with New Jersey. What's Your Exit? is also the title of the newly released anthology by Word Riot Press (mastheaded by local NJ writer Jackie Corley.) This is a collection of forty-nine diverse poets, essayists, and fiction writers, et.al, all moved by, inspired by or molded by The Garden State. New Jersey has a particular reputation through the country and in the foreword some of this is highlighted "New Jersey had gotten such a pop culture lift as of late...the ominous Sopranos finale-set in a diner filled with quintessential Jersey images such as onion rings, truckers, ‘80's lite-rock on the jukebox, a daughter outside who cannot for the life of her parallel park her expensive sports car-still fresh in everybody's minds; Springsteen and Bon Jovi still touring and releasing music like time had stood still; reality shows tapping into the last great resource: spoiled Jersey housewives...."
What's Your Exit is conveniently organized in three sections: Coming, Going and Staying. Thematically the stories, poems and essays are grouped. The editors also created two-sub table of contents: The Parkway and The Turnpike. Here pieces are organized by which exit they would be associated with.
The writers and pieces of What's Your Exit are as diverse as New Jersey its self. Geography plays a big role and ranges from Jason Biggs' Scratch-and Sniff, where "you realize/that the smell was coming from outside, a combination of/landfill and oil refineries that I always thought would make/a good scratch-and-sniff sticker. /I'd call it ‘New Jersey'" to Michael Aaron Rockland's Blood Ditch, pedaling "across the northern limits of the Pine Barrens, which occupy fully one-fourth of New Jersey, the trees became dwarfed and the soil beside the highway gave way to sand. It was as if someone had drawn a line across the land...The Pine Barrens were once under sea and will be again, no doubt."
Subjectively, What's Your Exit? covers the heartwarming to the harrowing. In Spider Boy, the multi award-winning author Joyce Carol Oates serves us a chilling story about kidnapping and murder. Mark by J. Robert Lennon is also filled with mayhem, shovels and disappearances. In the third section of What's Your Exit? we're given a trifecta of pieces revolving around, having to do with or inspired by Christian Saints. There are tales about overcoming odds, winning small battles, the underground culture, crime, violence, home, diversity, fishing and the beat goes on.... As reader's we are also graced with an extraordinary essay (poetry as well) by two-time Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky about Long Branch, entitled Salt Water and also a fabulous contribution by Gerald Stern, Bullet in my Neck, an essay about being shot.
Traveling through the world of literature, one could chronicle the changes at Word Riot Press. Once it was a small literary online publication that eventually moved into the world of publishing serious work by serious writers. Word Riot broke into print as a small independent publishing house, printing the work of several up and coming writers...nothing about What's Your Exit? is small and is a true testament of the maturation of one of New Jersey's finest publishing houses. Editor's Joe Vallese and Alicia A. Beale, did a fantastic job putting together one of the best contemporary collections of New Jersey literature. Some notable contributors mentioned on the cover (smart looking and designed by David Barringer) include: Joyce Carol Oates, Robert Pinsky, Tom Perrotta, J. Robert Lennon, James Richardson, Jason Biggs, Alicia Ostriker, Gerald Stern, Louise Desalvo and James Hoch.
Whether you are a native of New Jersey or someone who may be partly interested by the lore and draw of this diverse state (or hate NJ for that matter), What's Your Exit? is a must read. This is an anthology to put out on the table and read bit by bit. If you fall into the category of "Going" and are already gone, treat yourself to a slice of home once in awhile. If you fall into the category of "Coming", read about what may or may not be in store for you. And if you're "Staying", submerse yourself in your neighborhood and embrace what our fine state has and continues to offer you.
Review by John Petrolino, www.johnpetrolino.com, who can be contacted at jpetrolinoiii@Yahoo.com. What's Your Exit? edited by Joe Vallese and Alicia A. Beale, published by Word Riot Press 2010 is available at Amazon, Barnes&Noble and www.wordriot.org. Publisher Jackie Corley can be reached at jcorley@gmail.com.
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Bayshore Community Hospital uncorks the details
Holmdel - The Bayshore Community Hospital Foundation and the event's steadfast co-chairs, Fern and Peter Esposito, Mary and Dr. Elias Lehaf announced the ‘Second Annual Wine Tasting Event.'
Members of Spirits Unlimited Super Discount, Middletown, Red Bank and Wanamassa, including Philip Scaduto, vice president of administration and marketing, were on hand at the Middletown store to assist the event co-chairs in the selection of fine wines from Simi and Estancia Wineries as well as Franciscan Vineyards. Attendees will enjoy a tour of California wine country complimented by Beacon Hill Country Club's delicious signature hors d'oeuvres. A Silent Auction will provide opportunities to take fine wines and other delicacies home to enjoy.
The event will be held Wednesday, September 15, 2010, at the exclusive Beacon Hill Country Club, Atlantic Highlands from 6:30 to 9:30 pm with proceeds benefiting Bayshore's Oncology Services.
For sponsorship and ticket information, call the Bayshore Community Hospital Foundation at 732-497-1790.
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Heroine and an intriguing tale of Celtic Mythology
Red Bank – Author Wallace Jan Ecklof will be launching his new book "The Last Celtic Angel." Ecklof studied Creative Writing at Monmouth University, West Long Branch.
The main character in the book, Deanna Gaynor, a woman approaching 40, is a proud single mom, holding it together for her family. She is on a quest of self-discovery, a need to prove her self-worth while seeking fulfillment both personally and professionally. As an honest journalist, she seeks the truth and uncovers secret after secret, held by nearly every resident in Rancho de Los Angels. And as the facts start to unravel, it all collides into one powerful conclusion, where destinies are tied.
For twenty-five years, author Wallace Jan Ecklof lived in Wellington, Florida where he competed in the many horse events held in one of the nation's top equestrian areas. He had been involved with Horses for the Handicap and experienced what these big beautiful animals could do for people with disabilities, especially with children. This was when the idea of The Last Celtic Angel came to him, while training people with physical and emotional handicaps.
"I have just finished reading The Last Celtic Angel...and would recommend it to all ages as a 'Good Read.' It was like an excellent meal that entertained the pallet until the last course and desert; leaving you satisfied and content. When I finished the last chapter it left me wanting more. You have captured the mood of the equestrian events and depict certain social problems that do exist, but in an entertaining style of fiction," said Janis Murphy, Acreage Horsemen's Assoc. Palm Beach County, FL.
Rich in subject matter, the book boldly addresses many significant issues in our society, profound in their existence, but rarely discussed. These topics are expertly woven into the story of a heroine and an intriguing tale of Celtic Mythology.
Deanna's personal story is one, which includes an issue that is both poignant and challenging in our society - our children are in emotional crisis. Katie, Deanna's daughter, attempts suicide and becomes a student of James Doyle's unconventional therapy; he's the mysterious man who runs the rehabilitation center for teens. The center includes children with a vast array of emotional, physical and psychological traumas; ranging from physical abuse, molestation, divorce and family issues, serious health problems, various traumatic experiences and concerns with identity and self-esteem. "Problems such as these puts children into shells for the rest of their lives, unless someone teaches them how to cope," said Ecklof.
This book also sheds some light on common misconceptions accompanying "legal" aliens and immigrants in American culture. "People are discriminated against when they are honest contributing members of our society." The book tries to point out this class distinction, something that is not acknowledged. "It's as if the people of this culture are invisible," said Ecklof. “Rosa, an immigrant and main character in the book explains..."you must understand we come here not looking for handouts, but to earn the right stay."
Fighting over multi-million dollar land deals, romantic conflicts and how the "Justice" system is a paid-for service rather than representing our rights, are among the many subjects so skillfully and artistically employed in this story. Additionally, there are unforgettable characters in a non-stop, fast paced story, leading to an ending that commands your attention and won't disappoint.
Ecklof is currently working on a screenplay and operates a writer's website. Ecklof will be launching his new book on August 20 at NovelTeas, Red Bank. Located at 78 Bridge Avenue, opposite the Red Bank train station. Book signing begins at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets include a copy of "The Last Celtic Angel," wine and cheese reception, author presentation and audience Q&A discussion.
For more information on the event, call 732.747.8800 or visit novelteas.org.
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Campaign meant to thwart mosquitoes
Aberdeen - This August, Monmouth County residents are asked to join the fight to eliminate common mosquito breeding habitats by removing old car tires from their yards as part of Tire Amnesty Month and bringing the tires to the Aberdeen Public Works Yard, 147 Lenox Rd., from Aug. 2 through Aug. 31, Monday through Saturday 7:30 am to 2:30 p.m.
During the tire amnesty month, residents may drop off up to eight rimless car tires that are no larger than 20 inches in diameter. This service is free during August at the Aberdeen location.
Municipalities do not pick up tires as part of residential trash removal, and tire replacement businesses charge a fee to dispose of used automobile tires. This tire removal event is a convenient opportunity for residents to remove tire debris from their yards at no cost. Additionally, most towns have ordinances in place that prohibit the storage of tires and other debris on private property that can create a threat to public health.
Residents who know of an abandoned tire dump or a location of piles of old tires should contact the county Mosquito Extermination Commission at 732-542-3630.
"Tires accumulate enough water to serve as mosquito habitat," said Freeholder Robert D. Clifton, liaison to the county's Mosquito Extermination Commission. "A single tire could produce an average of 405,200 mosquitoes over the summer season. Residents need to be vigilant in protecting themselves and reducing the places where mosquitoes can increase their populations."
The county emphasizes that homeowners also should ensure that window and door screens are in good repair, and that their property is free of water-holding containers such as cans, buckets, tires, flower pots and wheelbarrows that create areas where mosquitoes can breed.
The County Mosquito Extermination Commission and the County Planning Board are coordinating the county's tire amnesty program with the assistance of the Aberdeen Township.
"The best way to prevent a mosquito bite is to eliminate backyard larval mosquito habitats," said Douglas Guthrie Sr., superintendent of the county's mosquito control program. "The summer weather in Monmouth County is prime time for mosquitoes that thrive in water and humidity," said Guthrie who also stresses the importance of personal protection against mosquito bites.
"It is important that citizens follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) recommendations for personal protection," Guthrie cautioned. The CDC recommends that people can reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes and, as a result, lower their exposure to insect-borne diseases by following some simple steps: When outdoors, apply insect repellent following the label instructions, especially for use on children. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever possible.
Avoid outdoor activity at peak mosquito times - dusk and dawn.
The CDC also recommends the use of repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) or picaridin (KBR 3023). Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane-3,8-diol) provide better protection than other plant-based repellents, but fall short compared to products containing high concentrations of DEET.
"You should choose a repellent that provides protection for the amount of time you will be outdoors," Guthrie said. "Repellents with a higher percentage of an active ingredient, like DEET, typically provide longer-lasting protection."
For the latest information on mosquito control and mosquito-borne disease activity in Monmouth County, residents can log onto the county's Website.
Up-to-date mosquito control information also can be heard on the Mosquito Extermination Commission's hot line at 732-578-1600.
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Successful efforts to improve Monmouth Park
Oceanport - It seems like a rare mix of talent and interests, but John Heims, who is Director of Media Relations at Monmouth Park during the racing season, is also an attorney in private practice who specializes in wills, trusts, and estate planning.
Actually, according to Heims this is a perfect blend of the two professions. And he takes advantage of the four months away from the racing industry to devote more time to his legal office.
It's the people he has met in the racing industry, and the high standards they have set, that made the law field so intriguing, Heims readily admits.
His love for racing started when he was a kid and his parents would take him by train from Spring Lake to Monmouth Park where he was mesmerized by the horses, the system, and the organization of the industry. He went to Clemson University in South Carolina and earned a degree in economics, then did graduate work at the University of Kentucky at Lexington, heightening his interest in the equine industry while living in the heart of it. That led to earning a post baccalaureate certificate in equine administration, in addition to the economics background. Along the way, he also did an internship at Atlantic City Race Course before relocating to South Florida as the simulcast coordinator for Gulfstream Park and Director of Media Relations at Hialeah Park.
While at Hialeah, Heims got his first taste of working in TV, and oversaw the production of a daily show on the Sunshine Network. When he went to Gulfstream during that same time period, he was responsible for a network of wagering that totaled over $635 million the last year he was there. His simulcast network included more than 900 outlets through the Americas as well as in the Caribbean, and it was part of his job to conduct the contractual negotiations and satellite providers. A daunting task, since at the same time he was working with the National Thoroughbred Racing Association marketing department arranging simulcast promotions focused on Gulfstream.
Ten years after first coming to Monmouth publicizing racing to a national network of television, radio and print, Heims oversaw media relations for the Breeders Cup championships, the largest races ever held at Monmouth, including worldwide coverage that spanned Europe, Asia, the Americas and Australia. That experience was easily the highlight of his racing career to date, he said, not only because of the magnitude of the work but also because he felt a part of Monmouth Park's successful efforts to improve and enhance the racing facility in Oceanport. "There's no doubt about it," he smiles, "the people of New Jersey were truly the biggest winner of the Breeder's Cup championships here."
Working in a position that is seasonal affords Heims the time to devote to his legal career. He asserts that the industry lends itself to blending with a legal career, and points to the number of high level, and highly respected Monmouth Park executives who were also attorneys...men like Dennis Dowd, Bruce Garland and Hal Handel.
Heims's wife, Linda Rehrer, is also an attorney, and a partner in a Toms River firm with her sister. But Heims maintains his own office, albeit in the same building as his wife on South Shore Drive. While Linda specializes more in family law, Heims prefers wills and trusts, occasionally defense work in municipal court, and real estate. He also gives seminars and talks to clubs and organizations on wills and money matters and believes his diversity is one of his major attributes.
"This isn't to say I'm leaving the racing industry, not by a long shot," Heims says, "there's a blend here, I can do both, devote more time to law during the four months off from racing, but I can always make myself available. I just want to combine the two professions because I really believe it's a great combination. In two hectic fields, it seems to bring a little sanity to each. I'm staying...I like it here."
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Indian Hill School: Criminal mischief arrest
Holmdel - Vandals broke 21 windows located primarily in the rear of Indian Hill School, 735 Holmdel Road, on July 5. As a result of a recent Police investigation four (4) juveniles have been charged with third degree criminal mischief for damage done to the Indian Hill School. Two of the subjects reside in Holmdel Township, ages 17 and 16. The other subjects involved are from Matawan and Hazlet Township, NJ, both age 16. All four have been processed and released to their parents/guardians pending an appearance at the Monmouth County Juvenile Court.
Police were able to develop several leads as a result of notifications that were broadcast by the Holmdel Township Code Red messaging system, as well as coverage received from the news media.
The incident resulted in twenty-one (21) windows being damaged at the school by rocks, pipes, and physical force. The replacement cost for the widows and clean up, totaled nearly $13,000.00.
Detective, Edward Martinez and Cpl. William Cusick were the investigating and arresting officers.
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Local town improvements recognized
The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders recognized local open space grant projects in 14 towns by presenting them with signs to commemorate completion of their park acquisition and improvement projects.
The freeholders also recognized outstanding efforts in community recreation from Keyport, Neptune and Rumson. These recognitions took place at the Board's July 8 regular meeting.
"What better time than July's National Park and Recreation Month to recognize communities who successfully completed Municipal Open Space Grant Program projects in the past year," said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, who serves as the board's liaison to the county Park System.
Local towns recognized by the Board were:
Atlantic Highlands for its completion of the Harbor Skate Park. Mayor Frederick Rast and Councilman Roy Dellosso accepted the project sign.
Keyport for completing two-park playground projects - one at Beach Park and one at Therese Avenue Park. Council President Joseph Sheridan and Lorene Wright, borough administrator, accepted the open space project signs.
Middletown for its acquisition of the former Fisler tract, a 3.8-acre parcel on Compton's Creek. Mayor Gerry Scharfenberger, Environmental Commission member Martin Donohue and Jason Greenspan, township planner, accepted the project sign.
Red Bank for completing Phase One of improvements at Count Basie Park including a new concession stand with accessible restrooms, resurfacing of the basketball courts and improving the access to the bleachers and walkways. Councilwomen Kathleen Horgan, Sharon Lee, and Juanita Lewis accepted the project sign for the borough.
Union Beach completed a project at Scholer Park that added a Little League field, a softball field and parking spaces.
"This program helps towns preserve open space and acquire and improve parkland by sharing the costs with the county," Freeholder Robert D. Clifton said. "The dollars raised through the county's voter-supported open space fund make $2 million available annually to help towns create and improve their green spaces."
Created by the freeholders in 2003, the annual Municipal Open Space Grant Program offers matching grants of up to $250,000 for municipal open space acquisition and development projects. Since its inception, the Program has awarded funding in support of 90 important local park and recreation projects in 43 Monmouth County municipalities.
"Both land acquisition and park, recreation and open space improvement efforts are eligible for funding," Freeholder John D'Amico said. "All of Monmouth County's 53 municipalities have until Sept. 22 to submit an application for the next round of matching grants."
Applications for the 2010 Municipal Open Space Grant Program are available now on the Park System's Website. The filing deadline is 4 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 22.
The Freeholders also joined the Monmouth County Board of Recreation Commissioners in recognizing outstanding recreation efforts over the past year. Since 1980, the recreation commissioners have presented 226 awards to outstanding Monmouth County people, programs, and facilities.
The local area 2010 recreation awards winners are as follows:
Rumson Recreation Department's Crew Program received the Victor Grossinger Achievement Award for Innovative Recreation Programming. The Rumson Crew program was designed for local youth in grades 6 through 12 with a desire to learn how to row in both a recreational and competitive environment and set them on a path for a lifelong recreation activity. More than 240 youth participate in the program that is funded primarily though the Rumson Crew Parent Booster Club. Rumson Councilman Frank Shanley accepted the award.
Waterfront Park in Keyport received the Charles M. Pike Award for Park and Recreation Facilities. Waterfront Park is a well-planned park with a promenade along the bayfront in Keyport. It provides a gathering place for the community with water views of New York City and it connects Keyport's public boat ramp to the wooden boardwalk in Fireman's Park. Keyport Council President Joseph Sheridan and Lorene Wright, borough administrator, accepted the Pike Award.
Riverside Park, Rumson, received the Ross W. Maghan Award for Exemplary Park Maintenance. Riverside Park is a simple, compact, well-maintained facility with athletic fields, a walking trail along the Shrewsbury River and a playground. Rumson Councilman Frank Shanley and Administrator Tom Rogers accepted the Maghan Award. "The people we are recognizing tonight are making a very positive difference in the lives of their communities," Freeholder Amy A. Mallet said. "It is their hard work that provides the backbone of recreation in Monmouth County. Recreation boards, environmental councils, town councils, elected officials, various committees, and not-for-profit groups are all strengthened by work of the people in this room." "All of the towns and efforts recognized are to be commended for their commitment to providing a better quality of life for their residents through enhanced recreation and open space," Freeholder John P. Curly said. "I encourage each and every municipality to participate in the county's open space grant and recreation awards programs."
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