Dave introduced Karl Vilacoba, Communications Director for Monmouth University and the Ocean Coast Institute.

 Karl gave an overview of the coastal communities and ocean resources and mentioned that this year is the 20^th anniversary of the organization. At the time, it was formed by Monmouth University President President Paul Gafney, who was a Navy Admiral and Oceanographer. He explained how interested parties can interact with the ocean and foster better leadership for the marine environment. There are a few focus areas such as, student support and fundraising for scholarships.  The program has funded coastal libraries, clean-up projects, and all sorts of research. Since its inception, 300 students have received funds toward their tuition. Each year students can apply as long as they demonstrate an interest to improve the coast.  Community resilience since Storm Sandy has been a large part of their work. Presently they are working on oyster restoration off Earl Weapons Naval Station. There is also a restoration taking place in the Barnegat Bay section of New Jersey for better water quality and eco-health. He explained that the students and faculty are currently working in areas from Long Branch to Spring Lake. They train people to take samples of the water to determine if it is healthy. He went on to say that chemicals used to dissolve ice and snow filter into the water, creating a bacteria buildup. These are the type of things they monitor. Another project which is similar to a crime scene investigation in that they look at marine life and try to get an idea of the fish population in the ocean, lakes, etc. This is done by taking a water sample to extract a bit of DNA that fish leave behind. In that way, they can determine what type fish have been swimming in the water. This also shows which waters have the most marine life or those that are struggling.  He encouraged the Members to attend University presentations.  A lively Q & A session followed.  

Dave presented Andrea, our longtime server, with a parting gift and a card signed by the Members and told her she will be sorely missed.  He went on to say that she accepted a full-time position within a New Jersey school district and, although she will continue working at Rooney’s in the evening, she will no longer be taking lunch shifts.

Andrea thanked everyone and introduced Michael who will be our new server beginning January 9^th.

Highlights: Tasha Y. Brown formed a new company called Learning Rx. The center is a scientific brain training solution to help clients ages 8 to 80 that are struggling with attention, learning, reading, and remembering. The training focuses on seven cognitive skills - attention, processing speed, working memory, auditory processing, visual processing, logic and reasoning and long-term memory. Skills are also taught for clients with ADHD and Dyslexia. Clients are pretested in order to design a program. Tasha distributed “Brain Training” brochures.

 

 

Speaker Bill Donnelly, Past Rotary Governor
Highlights: The Long Branch Club was founded in 1921 and sponsored by the Asbury Park Club. The Club was formed to collaborate with local government, businesses and non-profits for community service. The high school Interact Club and student loan programs were initiated. The Club transformed the Icehouse at Monmouth U. into an art gallery. The Paul Harris Award is given to thank members who contributed to Rotary’s humanitarian and educational programs. Paul Harris, a lawyer and three business associates in Chicago founded Rotary on February 23,1905. President Jimmy Carter and Mother Theresa are notable Paul Harris Fellows.

 

 

Pres. Dave (L) and Club Foundation Chair Walt present check for $3,000

to Long Branch HS scholarship recipient Christopher Reyes.

 

President Dave Brown presented the Rotary Scholarship check to Long Branch High School recipient Christopher Reyes. Christopher was accompanied by his mother Hazel and sister, also Hazel. Christopher related that he will be enrolled at Monmouth University to major in biology. His ultimate career goal is to become a Physician’s Assistant. President Dave explained to the recipient the mission and functions of the worldwide Rotary organization.

 

President Dave Brown presents Rotary mugs to Rich (L) and Brenden (Ctr)

in appreciation of the informative presentation they gave about Shore House.

 

 

 Speaker - Annalisa Leite, Director of Development and Marketing for ARC of Monmouth County

being presented with $500 donation by club president Dave Brown.

 

ARC was founded in 1949 by a group of families. This non-profit organization works to improve the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Funds are provided by Medicare, the State and donations. The speaker described in detail the many services offered such as the following; Individual and family support health services, recreation programs, education, help with learning skills, seeking employment and residential programs. The Monmouth County ARC serves 1600 individuals within 20 locations. A fundraiser is planned for April 5, 2025.  The speaker distributed literature describing the mission and the programs offered by the organization.