Speaker - (L)Dave Gruskos, Reliable Auto Equipment discussing Ev’s and batteries, being presented with a Rotary mug by Club President Walt Thistlewaite
Highlights - Dave’s company manufactures specialized tools for luxury autos and planes. EV’s production is worldwide. The most notable is the Chinese BYD produced in China, Mexico and Canada and priced from $19,000 to $25,000. The American products from Ford, Rivian, Lucid and Tesla sell for $60,000. The Chinese version is made of lightweight aluminum and can be a fire hazard. The aluminum and some parts come from Canada. New Jersey just allowed self-driving cars on the roads. These should be the bulk of transportation within 3 years and can be ordered on Amazon. Car leases will be limited to 90 days. The finance companies will have the ability to shut off the car. The cars will be like rolling computers. Phone apps will control air conditioning, heat, etc. There will be no car dealerships.
Many services in the car will be optional and paid for through subscriptions.
(L-R) Brookdale Community College, Dr. Anita Vooght, associate vice president for Strategic Partnerships and club member,
Dr. David Stout, President BCC and club president Walt Thistlewaite.
Anita Voogt Introduced the speaker Dr. David Stout, President of Brookdale Community College. She outlined Dr.Stout’s 30-year history with Brookdale starting with his youth as a camper. He progressed through the ranks from student development specialist to become a professor, a department chair, Dean of several departments and has served as President for 10 years.
Highlights : The mission of the college is to provide high-quality education with cost -effective and lifelong learning options for personal and economic success.
The institution will be moving to a new building in Long Branch. Free bus transportation is available for students traveling to both campuses. He discussed in detail the college degree programs, alliances with Keane college and Monmouth University and the vocational training programs. There is a special certification program allied with Netflix for behind the camera work such as set building, wardrobe, makeup and other technical work. Some of the popular academic majors are dental hygiene, nursing, business, criminal justice, interior design and psychology. Dr. Stout distributed a Brookdale College Annual Report magazine to the members.
A wonderful time was enjoyed by all at the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch’s Annual Summer BBQ, graciously hosted by Terry Janeczek at her home. The rain held off, allowing approximately 90 guests to gather and enjoy delicious Local Smoke BBQ along with Sangria, beer, and soft drinks.
A stunning cake from Andrea’s Delicious Farms helped celebrate America’s 250th birthday while honoring outgoing Club President Dave Brown and incoming President Walt Thistlewaite. Club members also contributed cakes, cookies, and refreshments, adding to the festive spirit.
Local restaurants and businesses generously donated gift certificates for the raffle, helping raise funds to support the Club’s Jingle Bell Buddies Program. This program—founded and led by Terry—provides gifts and food to 12 Long Branch families in need each Christmas, bringing comfort and joy during the holiday season.
Outgoing President Dave Brown, who served three years as president, brought in several new members, and continues to serve in multiple capacities throughout the community, was presented with a Community Service Award along with his second Rotary International Paul Harris Award.
The evening also included the induction of new member Ed Markman, sponsored by Mike and Retta Schwartzstein, as he joined the Rotary family.
A big thank you to everyone who helped with setup before the BBQ and cleanup afterward — your support made all the difference.
Past District Governor Bill Donnelly (center) thanks Dave Brown (right) for his 3 years of service as club president and installs Walt Thistlewaite (lft) as the new club president.
A wonderful time was enjoyed by all at the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch’s Annual Summer BBQ, graciously hosted by Terry Janeczek at her home. The rain held off, allowing approximately 90 guests to gather and enjoy delicious Local Smoke BBQ along with Sangria, beer, and soft drinks.
A stunning cake from Andrea’s Delicious Farms helped celebrate America’s 250th birthday while honoring outgoing Club President Dave Brown and incoming President Walt Thistlewaite. Club members also contributed cakes, cookies, and refreshments, adding to the festive spirit.
Local restaurants and businesses generously donated gift certificates for the raffle, helping raise funds to support the Club’s Jingle Bell Buddies Program. This program—founded and led by Terry—provides gifts and food to 12 Long Branch families in need each Christmas, bringing comfort and joy during the holiday season.
Outgoing President Dave Brown, who served three years as president, brought in several new members, and continues to serve in multiple capacities throughout the community, was presented with a Community Service Award along with his second Rotary International Paul Harris Award.
The evening also included the induction of new member Ed Markman, sponsored by Mike and Retta Schwartzstein, as he joined the Rotary family.
A big thank you to everyone who helped with setup before the BBQ and cleanup afterward — your support made all the difference.
Speaker - John A. DeSantis, Jr., Club Member, Investment Title Agency Commercial and Residential N.J. Licensed Title Producer
Highlights - John discussed the proliferation of fraudulent scams in the real estate market. The biggest scammers are involved in wire fraud in real estate transactions. Deeds, mortgages and home titles are commonly scammed. As “the Purveyor of Good Deeds” John requires calling him or the realtor for specific instructions before wiring funds. Scammers collect personal codes from the internet and change lower case letters such as an I to an L. Never answer a phone call saying your name or saying "yes" to anything asked.
Speaker - Kia West, Registered Nurse and Club member
Highlights - Kia traced her childhood in Long Branch and her activities excelling in sports programs. She graduated from Seton Hall with a major in nursing and social work. Her family consists of many nursing professionals. She has provided nursing care at the following hospitals - Jersey Shore, Hackensack Meridian and Monmouth Medical. She is active at the Long Branch Library Mental Health program. She explained that the state of N.J. has programs for people at risk. Her mantra is “keep moving”. Movement will make you feel better for physical and mental well-being.
Guest speaker and Rotarian Sylvia Allen presents club President Dave Brown with a banner from the Rotary Club of Masaka, District 9214 (Uganda-Tanzania) for our clubs support of the Mbiriizi Advanced Primary School.
Guest Speaker: Speaker- Sylvia Allen, Allen Consulting, Founder of Sylvia’s Children
Sylvia’s children is a non- profit organization that provides quality health care, education, and infrastructure to 1,000 underserved, underprivileged children and families in rural Uganda. Sylvia was named the honorary grandmother to the children at the school. Over 20 years, the organization has established a self-sustaining campus with a 6,000-foot medical clinic, a library, teacher housing and agriculture projects. Sylvia organizes trips to Uganda to visit the school, to celebrate holidays and bring medical professionals and volunteers to support the community. Sylvia presented the Club with a banner from Uganda.
Sylvia is in the process of developing 2 clinics in Uganda to serve the surrounding area in a hub and spoke configuration. The ends of the spokes being clinics and the hub being a central hospital. The clinic will have a trike ambulance to attend to women delivering in the villages with midwives and nurses helping. The clinic will also grow coffee beans to help fund it. The waiting area will be outside under a gazebo with a playground for the waiting children. There will also be coffee and snacks for sale to help in the operations as well.
Pres. Dave Brown (2nd from left) thanked guest speaker, Eric Carney, Pres & CEO of Monmouth Medical Ctr, Southern Campus. Also, Maria Caputo, Dir of Community Service & Gov’t Relations, as well as Jenna DiBartolo, Dir of Community & Gov’t Relations.
Eric spoke and explained that Phase I of the Monmouth Medical Center relocation will be located at the Vogel Campus, Tinton Falls which will house the cancer, cardiac care and surgical centers. The current plan is to begin seeing patients on Feb. 2, 2027.
Phase II will hold 252 beds with labor/delivery and a surgery tower. The goal is to begin welcoming patients in 2032.
Eric went on to state, the existing Todd pavilion will be renovated for behavioral health, while the Stanley wing will handle outpatient care. Breast imaging and emergency rooms will be located at both locations. Eric put rumors to rest by conveying that no part of the Long Branch location will be sold.
Diversity Ability Support Network System provides individualized professional support to persons with disabilities in Uganda. DASUNS was founded by Ronald Kasule, a former Rotary Peace Fellow at Makerere University.
How one peace fellow is building a more inclusive Uganda
Speakers - Louis Schwartz and Samantha White, Family & Children’s Service Monmouth County (FCS) receive Rotary mug from
club President Dave Brown
Highlights: Mr. Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer for Monmouth County related that this non-profit organization was established in 1909 by 3 businessmen who recognized the need to help challenged individuals such as underprivileged children, seniors, the disabled and abused. The mantra is to provide advocacy, compassion and trust and give dignity to individuals The organization is supported by donors and government grants. Samantha White, Director of Volunteers outlined some of the services. Some of these programs provided by trained volunteers are adult protective services, home care assistance, education concerning health and medications , recreation in home for the isolated, reading buddies for at -risk school children, help with Medicare and related insurance budgets, holiday events and toys FCS is the sole county provider of unduplicated services for individuals and families in crisis.
Guest Speaker - (L)Dave Perez, MSW, Bilingual Social Work Manager Long Branch Free Public Library receiving Rotary mug from Club President Dave Brown.
Mr. Perez related that he is a disabled veteran, a 27-year Long Branch resident has a master's in social work and is currently enrolled in a Library Science Master's Program. Highlights - In 1878 thirty women started a library in L.B. Later in 1916 philanthropist Andrew Carnegie awarded a grant to help establish the City of L.B. Free Public Library. Previously libraries were only for the affluent until the Roosevelt WPA program brought libraries to the pubic. The library became a place of empowerment by providing information for people. This became a lifeline for the vulnerable and helped meet community needs. In 2009 the L.B. Library was the first to institute a social work program. The library has a children’s floor, a theater, conference rooms and is wheel-chair accessible. There are computer printing and wi-fi services , children and adult programs. Deceased Rotary member Al Peskoe volunteered at the library to help people pay their taxes. In 2023 the library was awarded the National Medal of Honor.
Guest Speaker - (L)Dave Perez, MSW, Bilingual Social Work Manager Long Branch Free Public Library receiving Rotary mug from Club President Dave Brown.
Mr. Perez related that he is a disabled veteran, a 27-year Long Branch resident has a master's in social work and is currently enrolled in a Library Science Master's Program. Highlights - In 1878 thirty women started a library in L.B. Later in 1916 philanthropist Andrew Carnegie awarded a grant to help establish the City of L.B. Free Public Library. Previously libraries were only for the affluent until the Roosevelt WPA program brought libraries to the pubic. The library became a place of empowerment by providing information for people. This became a lifeline for the vulnerable and helped meet community needs. In 2009 the L.B. Library was the first to institute a social work program. The library has a children’s floor, a theater, conference rooms and is wheel-chair accessible. There are computer printing and wi-fi services , children and adult programs. Deceased Rotary member Al Peskoe volunteered at the library to help people pay their taxes. In 2023 the library was awarded the National Medal of Honor.
Speaker: Ty-Kiera Brown, Director of Human Resources and Operations for Family and Children’s Services (FCC) is presented a Rotary mug by Club President Dave Brown in appreciation of her informative presentation.
Highlights - FCC, established in 1909, is the oldest non-profit and leading volunteer organization in Monmouth County. The mission is to protect and preserve the dignity and independence of people in need.
There are services for the homeless, the abused, seniors and those with financial and physical instabilities. Some of the programs include education, childhood literacy, obesity, home care and State Health Insurance assistance. There are cultural and holiday events. A local emergency can be addressed within three hours. The Long Branch FCC services 1,000 candidates from several counties.
President Dave (R) thanks Dr. Charles Maher for a lively and informative presentation
Speaker - Dr. Charles Maher, Advisor Cleveland Guardians Professional Sport Performance and Its Relationship to Business Performance Based on his 37 years of work in the professional sport and business consulting, Dr. Maher discussed the mental development for players on the professional level of sport and the relevance for the development of people in business. Some of the areas he discussed were : the player as a person coping with risk, being a teammate, developing values beyond sport, having a vision for success, developing an understanding of their own personality and understanding other people, places and things. Professional players must be on time, respect the game and work hard. They should consider how they compete in dealing with results, risks and staying in the moment. He believes that talent with preparation will bring growth. His mantra is “Name It, Claim It, Fix It”.
Pres. Dave announced that he only has six months remaining as President and introduced Walt Thistlewaite as his replacement for the position of President of the Long Branch Rotary. Dave then presented Walt with the Paul Harris Fellow Award, which is the highest honor to be bestowed on a member.
Karl Vilacoba (L) President Dave Brown (R)
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 20th 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 9th.
Speaker- Lisa Kelly, Long Branch Public Library Adult Programing and Outreach Manager being thanked by Club Pres. Dave Brown for her very informative presentation.
Lisa related the many services offered by the Long Branch Library. Free membership is available to L.B. residents, businesses and property owners. Membership for others is $50. The library is nationally recognized and has won a gold medal. The building has been recently renovated at a cost of 6.2 million dollars. The Elberon branch is presently under renovation and plans to reopen in March 2026. There are special programs for adults, children and teens. Available is a digital collection of audio books, music and movies. There is a theater and conference rooms. Some of the many services offered are - a social worker on staff, a notary service, copy machines, faxing, free standardized testing practice, citizenship classes, many digital services, etc. The library’s Centennial in 2026 will be celebrated in partnership with the city. There will be movies, musicals and other events to represent the American cultural experience. The speaker distributed brochures.
Rotary donates 48 hygiene kits and 38 hoodies to Long Branch Recreation and Human Services for local youth.
(L-R) Ken Gittell, Rotary Club Executive Secretary/Director; Kris Parker, Long Branch Director of Recreation and Human Services; and Terry Janeczek, Club Jingle Bell Buddies Chairperson/Director
Rotary Makes Donation to Long Branch Recreation and Human Services
Speaker - Melissa Ziobro, Director of Cultural Affairs Monmouth University & Center for American Music
Highlights - Melissa was formerly a professor of history at M.U. for 18 years and was an historian for Fort Monmouth from 2004-2011. The M.U. center for Springsteen and American Music will open late spring or summer of 2026. The building will be 30,000 feet with 10,000 feet of exhibition space. The first floor will be devoted to American Music of all genres and the second floor to the Springsteen exhibit. Bruce Springsteen, singer, songwriter & guitarist, nicknamed “The Boss”, was born at L.B. Hospital in 1949. After his third album “Born to Run” for Columbia Records he became an international star. He has won 20 Grammy awards. Included in the display at the M.U. Archive building will be personal mementos, music, correspondence, costumes & memorabilia donated from Springsteen and his followers. The American Music center will include all genres of American music, There will be teacher training, workshops, and traveling exhibits. The collection was originated at the Asbury Park library and brought to M.U. in 2011
Speaker - Danna Kawut, Long Branch City Program and Special Events Coordinator receives Rotary mug from Pres. Dave Brown.
Highlights: Danna related that she has been the L.B. Program Coordinator for 11 years. She informed everyone that for the holidays beach badges are $45(normally $70.00) for adults and $25. for children. 1,000 people attended the Jackson Woods Halloween event. Some future events planned are as follows: a food drive for Thanksgiving that will last through Christmas, Art in the Park, concerts on the Great Lawn, Jazz & Blues festivals, Spanish events, the July 4th Festival, a. Disability Fair, a Dog Fest and a Toy Give- Away. She also assists with weddings and fundraisers. Future events are being communicated on social media. She distributed flyers about the December dates and venues for weekend holiday events such as tree lighting, Santa activities and senior activities.
(L-R) Treasurer, Judy Syms; Club President Dave Brown; Retta Schwartzstein
Announcements: President Dave presented Retta Schwartzstein with a Presidential Citation then he announced that Retta has been named a Paul Harris Fellow. Judy Syms pinned Retta with the medal. At that moment, as a surprise, Retta’s children who came from other states appeared.
Long Branch Mayor John Pallone and councilwoman Anita Voogt also presented Retta with an honorary certificate.
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.
Program supervisors Celia Thurman (right) and Olivia Massot sort produce at Hopelink food market. Hopelink partners with Harvest Against Hunger through the Farm to Pantry Initiative. Harvest Against Hunger is a program of Rotary District 5030 (Washington, USA) that makes fresh, local produce that might otherwise go to waste available to people who face food insecurity by connecting farmers, truckers, volunteers, and food banks to bring resources into hunger-relief efforts across Washington state. Bellevue, Washington, USA. 4 December 2023. Find the story in “Rotary” magazine, March 2024.
Chris Lewicki (L) receives Rotary mug from past president Paul Newell in appreciation of his enlightening and informative presentation.
Guest Speaker - Chris Lowicki, Community Services Specialist, N.J. Sharing Network (Support Kids in Need Drive)
Highlights: This non-profit organization’s headquarters are in New Providence, N.J. The network is open 24/7 throughout the year. The mission is to enhance and save lives through organ and tissue donations and provide support to the families in need. Matching is assigned according to medical need, compatibility, and location. There are 100,00 people on the list. Most needed organs are the liver and kidney. There were 297 donors last year. Donors must be alive and on ventilators for the procedure. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for August 9 of from 11-3 in Plainfield for children in need.
We welcomed new members, Ray Catlaw and John DeSantis (Ctr), to the club with Past District Governor Bill Donnelly(R) presiding. Mika Hon, Ray's sponsor, is also pictured.
Speaker - (L) Cary Zackman, Sales Director for Greater Long Branch
City Lifestyle Magazine being thanked for his presentation by Past President Gordon Heggie
The publication is a community focused magazine. The mission is to inspire, instruct and uplift readers through entertaining articles with detailed and seasonal listings of restaurants and businesses by sharing unique experiences and events. Local personalities are featured. The magazine was started two years ago by Amy Dine and is now part of the Lifestyle Media Group. Areas of circulation are Long Branch, West Long Branch, Oceanport, Deal and Oakhurst. The speaker advertised the WCP (White Chapel) Luau on July 25 from 7:00 to 9:00p.m. The speaker distributed magazines to the members.
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.
(L-R) Club Pres. Dave Brown, Christopher Reyes, his mom Hazel and sister Hazel, Club Foundation Chair Walt Thistlewaite.
President Dave congratulates and gives well wishes to Shore Regional HS recipient Jazmin Obuszko standing by her father, Joseph.
President Dave Brown presents Rotary mugs to Rich (L) and Brenden (Ctr)
in appreciation of the informative presentation they gave about Shore House.
Speakers - Rich Ampesingo and Brenden Fennell of Shore House Highlights: Shore House -Making Waves for Mental Illness Rich explained that Shore House is a non-profit clubhouse whose mission is to make the world a better place by helping people with mental illness to reclaim their self-worth by providing recovery opportunities, resources, employment, and support as a means to integrate with society. Shore House is New Jersey’s first and only accredited clubhouse and is celebrating 15 years of existence. Members are diagnosed by doctors and therapists. Brenden continued the discourse by relating that traditional and conditional employment programs are available. Job training is provided along with helpful accommodations for the disabled. Tax breaks are available to employment partners. Brochures were distributed to everyone at the Rotary meeting.
Matt & Malena receive citations for their contributions to the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch.
President Dave informed everyone that Melena and Matt Henderson will be moving to St. Augustine, Florida. He thanked them for their dedication and service to the Club. They are planning to join the Rotary club in St. Augustine, Florida. Matt has published a book titled “The 9% Club” which has received Best Seller status on Amazon. The proceeds will be going to the Amvets organization. The President and Club members raised a toast to honor and wish success to the Hendersons.
Club member Melanie Matlosz-Hon received a well-earned Michael's Heart Award for her hard work and dedication to the Gift of Life.
Supporting her is Mika Hon, her husband. A Michaels Heart Award was awarded posthumously to William C. Fox as well.
The event held at the Lobster Shanty in Pt. Pleasant was attended by 175 club members, family and friends.
The mission of Gift of Life is to provide lifesaving cardiac treatment to children in need from developing countries regardless of gender, creed or national origin. Their goal is to develop sustainable pediatric cardiac programs by implementing screening, surgical and training visits which are supported by autonomous Gift of Life programs, Rotary global grants and generous donors from around the world'
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.
President Dave inducting his son Michael Berry into the club.
Al Peskoe (center) gives presentation on the Jersey City Korean War Memorial. Al's friends Diane Merla and Dave Grusko sit by his side.
An estimated 163,000 from the state of New Jersey served during the Korean War era. In total, 836 from the state never returned home from Korea, including 165 POW/MIAs who still remain unaccounted for.
(L-R) Gordon Heggie & President Dave Brown present Al Peskoe with the Community Service Award for his many years of dedicated service to the club and the community. Mayor John Pallone congratulated Al for receiving the award.
Speaker: (L)Kevin McMillan, Deputy Mayor, Neptune, N.J. Topic - Diversity being thanked by Club President Dave Brown
Highlights: The speaker related his history of growing up in the Bronx. During his youth he helped his father with his plastering business and also helped when the family moved to New Jersey. During his work he learned about people of diverse races, cultures and religions. He has an M.A. in economics and an M.B.A. He had decades of Customer Relations experience at JCP&L, 20 years' experience as a pharmaceutical rep. and presently works for Pfizer. He has been mayor of Neptune 3 times. To help achieve diversity he expounded on the following: work with investors to determine destiny, be your best self, don’t mistake confidence for competence, analyze financial situations, have faith and be empathetic to the less fortunate. His mantra is “Be All You Can Be, Read”.
Students from Monmouth University Volunteer Club with Pres. Dave Brown
Club president Dave Brown (L) presents Tom with Rotary mug in appreciation of his presentation.
Speaker- Tom Gilmore, President. Monmouth-Ocean Development Council Asbury Park Rotary Member Highlights: The MODC is a non-profit organization that brings together business leaders, community advocates and government officials representing diverse groups from Monmouth and Ocean counties. The mission is to derive regional prosperity by sharing expertise with members. There are 300 members, 11 committees, 2 social/fundraising committees and educational seminars. In 1965 the organization was founded by Kendall Lee as the Shore Area Development Council. In 1969 the name was changed to the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council to encompass both counties. There are luncheons, workshops and business publications. Some topics that are addressed are land and water conservation, environment, community improvement and economic development. The speaker informed everyone about the new taxes proposed by Governor Murphy.
Speaker - Amber Cunha from BriefCam Company (Advanced surveillance systems) The company was founded in 2008 at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and developed as a video synopsis. The mission is to improve everyday lives by transforming video surveillance data into variable insights by using innovative solutions powered by advances technologies. The video analytics can track , search and identify people and objects of interest. BriefCam , a global company, has helped Fortune 500 companies, the police, transportation hubs, hospitality and entertainment centers and stadium events in real time. For example, recently this surveillance system identified the perpetrator of the United Health crime. The technology enables customers worldwide to review hours of video in seconds.
Amber being thanked for her highly informative presentation by club president Dave Brown,
with husband and Rotarian Peter Cunha standing beside her.
Pres. Dave thanks Tabatha Dalponte, Youth Exchange Officer for District 7505 Youth Exchange,
with a Rotary mug for her wonderful presentation
Highlights: The mission of the Youth Exchange program is to promote world peace and understanding of different cultures. Over 40 countries are involved in the program. U. S. high school students travel to foreign countries (outbound) and foreign students come to the U.S, (inbound) to live with host families, attend local classes and monthly Rotary meetings. There are Rotary Club counselors to handle details and advocate for the students. Host families receive orientation training, are responsible for accommodation, meals and to include the student in family activities. The students stay with different families for three, 3month periods. The Students receive a monthly stipend from Rotary. The speaker related her experience as an exchange student in Brazil. She built lifelong friendships and helped build a positive world view of the U.S.A. She distributed detailed literature about the program and invited members to consider hosting a student.
Tasha Youngblood Brown, President Dave Brown, and Paul Peacock
Paul pinning Dave with the Paul Harris pin.
Tasha Youngblood Brown and Paul Peacock spoke about President Dave Brown's commitment to serving the club and the community before presenting him with a prestigious Paul Harris Award.
(L-R) District 7505 Governor Elect Michael Thompson Club President Dave Brown, DGA Mark Morro, District Governor Nominee, William Mercantini
DGA Mark Morro opened the presentation with introductions. District Governor Nominee William Mercantini began the discussion about the proposal to merge the three districts into one unified district
By collaborating among the 4800 members the districts will be empowered to move forward. Many other states have already consolidated. 7505 District Governor Michael Thompson discussed the advantages - such as more power to receive increased funds from the foundation and from corporations, have the ability to offer more services and reduce costs. N.J. will then be the largest in the U.S.A. The Governors will be meeting with all the districts to discuss the consolidation.
Speaker: Taharka Sankara, founder and Managing Member of Counseling Support Services,LLC
Taharka related his transformational life’s journey from a troubled youth to a motivated adult with a Masters Degree in social work. He is also licensed and certified for clinical social work in N.J. Counseling Support Services - The organization was established in 2013 to provide culturally and responsive clinical support services in a safe, secure and healing environment to individuals and families impacted by traumatic life experiences. The mission is to provide affordable and accessible care, to empower individuals to develop a renewed perspective on life with a sense of purpose and self-awareness. The speaker authored a transformational, self-healing workbook , Six Critical Strategies. The book discusses healthy and unhealthy strategies for diet, rest, exercise, relationships, mindfulness and therapeutic counseling.
(L) Pres. Dave thanking Taharka for his inspirational presentation
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch participated in the dfree FinFe$t at the Long Branch Middle School on 11/9/24. This was a free financial festival teaching families how to make money, manage money, and invest money, empowering families through financial and health literacy. The event was sponsored by Prudential and RW Barnabas Health.
(rear L) DeForrest B. Soaries, Jr., Board Chairman CEO of Dfree Global Foundation Club President Dave Brown, Members Terry Janeczek and Marianne Powers
Club members Ken Gittell & Paul Peacock
(L-R) Club member Terry Janeczek, Ebike raffle winner Dr. Watts from NYC, and club President Dave Brown.
E-bike was donated to dfree FinFe$t for their raffle by the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch.
Congratulations to the City of Long Branch for a spooktacular Halloween event at Jackson Woods. Great costumes, BBQ, refreshments and DJ provided by the city. The attendance seemed to be much more than last year.
We all had a fun time volunteering at the event. The kids got loads of candy and there were plenty of frightening moments. The joy on their faces made it worthwhile. Below are some photos of Rotarians, family and friends.
Rotary Halloween at Jack-O-Lantern Woods event chairperson Marianne Powers and club president Dave Brown
Rotary at Long Branch Halloween at Jack-O-Lantern Woods
Pres. Dave Brown with guest speakers Rev Shaunda Sutton, youth pastor for the Clearview Baptist Church, Newark. N.J, and Tasha Youngblood Brown, Board Trustee and
Vice-chair at Monmouth University, Finance chair for L.B. Board of Education.
Ms. Brown and Ms. Sutton discussed in length the urgent need to educate the community about financial and health awareness and services available. FinFest, an admission free event is sponsored by the Monmouth County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and supported by Prudential and RWJ Barnabas. The mission of the festival is to empower attendees to create “Wealth Protected by Health”. Reverend Sutton related some of the free details of the event. Along with the free admission is free food, raffles and door prizes, financial advice, many health workshops and linkage to care and social services. A $500 cash prize will be awarded to the organization or individual that brings the most attendees. Flyers about the event were distributed to everyone.
Speaker: (L)Anthony P, Mauro, SR - author, entrepreneur and songwriter being thanked by Pres. Dave Brown
for his eye-opening presentation
Highlights - Anthony Mauro’s book “Caring for Carol by Caring for Me” is a memoir recounting the emotional journey of caring for his wife Carol through her battle with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD), a form of dementia. The memoir highlights the couple’s struggles with misdiagnoses and the profound loses caused by this form of dementia. The narrative explains the emotional, physical, social and financial challenges they faced. The memoir shares his personal method of dealing with the sorrow, illness and changes we all encounter. The memoir also relates his remarkable journey of overcoming his battle with anxiety, depression and panic disorder during his youth. The narrative is a resource for anyone seeking solace and guidance while navigating the adversities of dementia.
District Governor Steve Neuner presents club president Dave Brown with an RI theme banner.
Steven first joined Rotary at the age of 31 and has served as President of two clubs in southern New Jersey and as Treasurer for 3 years for his current club, Voorhees Breakfast. He has served District 7505 as Vocational Service chair, as Club Service chair, and, since 2020, as an Assistant Governor. He spoke about the 2024-25 presidential theme of The Magic of Rotary, highlighting the transformative nature of Rotary's work and the dedication of its members to create positive change in the world - reminding us that in every corner of the globe, Rotary brings the magic of hope, compassion, and change.
(L-R) AG Mark Morro, club president Dave Brown and District Governor Steve Neuner
Club president Dave Brown (L) presents Carlos Reynolds with Rotary mug in appreciation for his presentation.
Carlos Reynolds, owner of Barrio Antiguo, was born in Monterrey, Mexico, and came to the United States at a young age with his mother. Early on, he understood that succeeding here would mean leaving behind everything he once knew. This experience is why his community matters so deeply to him and shared this message with the club:
"I've gone through many of the same challenges that my community faces today, and my mission is to ensure that the Latino community has equal opportunities to thrive. By focusing on initiatives such as "Know Your Rights" seminars for tenants, employees, and consumers, assistance with obtaining tax IDs, and mental health awareness partnerships with local hospitals, I believe we can create pathways for the Latino community to integrate and succeed more quickly. Additionally, by collaborating with Rotary's teacher training programs, we can promote English language education abroad, further empowering students in our home countries."
Pres. Dave presents club member Marriane Powers with Presidential Citation for her commitment to Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self ".
Speaker - Nancy Francese of St. Brigid’s Food Pantry being presented with a Rotary mug in appreciation of her very informative presentation.
Highlights: The St. Brigid’s Food Pantry is located at St. James Church, 300 Broadway, L.B. The pantry is named after St. Brigid, protector of the poor and underserved. Volunteers assume all the necessary tasks to distribute food, staff the thrift shop and help with life skills. Approximately 3,000 people are served every month. The size of the family determines the allotment. In 2024 from January to July, 18,160 adults and children were served. References from social services and pre-registration are not required. Donations should be made to St. James Church. Visitors are welcomed.
Pres. Dave Brown (R) presenting Mark Schulman with Rotary mug in appreciation of his presentation.
Speaker Mark Schulman, PhD. - Award winning pollster and policy analyst Topic: Reflections on the Role of Public Opinion Polling Dr. Schulman was awarded his PhD. by Rutgers University. He related anecdotes about his career projection from his position as political science professor at Rutgers University to joining the Harris Polling Company, a market research and analysis organization. Ultimately, he co-founded SRBT, one of the largest public opinion and market research firms now part of ABT Associates. He served as TIME Magazine pollster for 10 years and served on the ABC News Election Desk for many years. He discussed tracking public opinion polls and policy issues for elections and for many foundations and industries such as fast-food, nuclear, genetic testing in the workplace, spousal abuse and first responders from 911. In conclusion he cited some case studies of how polling impacted marketing and public policy directives.
Luciana Silva, President of BR Help Center and past president of the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch, receives thank you from club president Dave Brown for her presentation.
Highlights: Luciana arrived From Brazil to the U.S.A. in 1999. She soon recognized that residents and non-residents needed support to overcome obstacles and reach their goals to live in the U.S.A. With the help of the parish priest, she founded the BR Help Center at Christ the King Parish for one and a half years. To accommodate the need for expansion the Center was relocated to 489 Broadway, Long Branch. The Center feeds over 300 families a week and has a clothing drive. The Center which is manned by volunteers accommodates all age groups. Some services provided are as follows: languages courses, legal advice, cultural events, assistance with forms and applications, health care assistance, financial advice and computer classes. The Center is totally supported by donations. The Center is the place to help bridge the Brazilian community with the general public.
Sylvia Allen presented the Club with a Certificate of Appreciation for the Club’s support of Sylvia’s Children. She proposed that the Rotary Club in Uganda that helps support the Mbiriizi school and our club become sister clubs.
Club members and spouses at Wall Speedway 50/50 fundraiser selling tickets to raise funds for the club and "Sylvia's Children" this past Saturday, 7/27.
President Brown presented Rotarian Lori Gabriel with $100 contribution to her organization, the Greater Mercer Area Health Foundation.
Pres. Dave presenting Jennifer with a Rotary mug in appreciation of her very engaging presentation.
Speaker: Jennifer Chauhan, founder and executive director of “Write Now”
- a non-profit organization
Highlights - Ms. Chauhan, formerly an English teacher, founded the organization 20 years ago. The mission is to generate confidence and compassion for young people through creative writing in supportive spaces. Creative writing imparts mental and physical health by releasing emotions. Some topics writers tackle are issues of race, gender, poverty, sex education, politics and family, The agenda has expanded to include community programs working with adults. The speaker distributed note pads and pens for everyone to write about an experience. Several members related anecdotes about their experiences.
President Dave Brown thanks Nikki for her presentation with a Rotary mug.
Speaker - Nikki Gangemi founder of Mindful Matters, board certified Life Master Coach, author of children and adult books on Mindfulness.
Highlights - She discussed her guide to clients about expanding their awareness in order to become empowered and to help them reach their journey with success and abundance. Her four steps are to reach CALM are - be conscious of your feelings, aware of your thoughts, think of the possibilities and make new empowering decisions. The objective is to help individuals pursue their goals without fear and self-doubt.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch awards two $3,000 scholarships to students from Long Branch High School and Shore Regional High School.
President Dave Brown and Terry Janeczek presented the Rotary Scholarship to Kaliya Bernard from Long Branch High School. She will be attending Kutztown University in Pennsylvania studying criminal justice and psychology.
President Dave Brown presented Riley Lawrence with the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch scholarship, congratulating her and her mom, Rachel Lawrence.
Riley will be attending Stevens Institute of Technology to study civil engineering.
Beautiful weather, great friends, food, drink and we raised money to provide families in need gifts and food for Christmas. Couldn't get much better than that. Thank you, Terry, for a wonderful evening.
Past president Paul Newell presents Darrell with Rotary mug in appreciation of his informative update of the Long Branch Chamber of Commerce
Topic - The L.B. Chamber of Commerce The mission is to develop, encourage and promote retail services, hospitality, industrial education and tourism based concerns under a set of common goals. The Chamber consists of a diverse membership and welcomes new businesspeople and residents. He discussed future events, bringing back restaurant week and the use of social media as a means of promotion. Some suggestions for consideration offered by Club members were for the Chamber to create a map of L.B. businesses and a calendar of events.
Rotarian Sylvia Allen receives $500 contribution from past president Paul to Sylvia's Children to help in restoration of storm damaged dormitory of school in Uganda.
Rotarian Judy Syms receiving her +6 Paul Harris pin in recognition of her ongoing financial support of Rotary International.
Club President Dave Brown presents Rotary mug to Gary in appreciation of his entertaining and very informative presentation.
Highlights: The American Red Cross mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The international organization was started by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant in 1828. The Red Cross symbol represents the Swiss flag and its motto “protection for all”. Some facts: The organization blood drives supply 40% of the blood reserves, there is financial and housing support for the military including veterans, research on sickle cell anemia, equipment and food for disaster victims, disaster training for volunteers and free smoke alarms with installation available by request. He discussed how to be pro-active with preparedness in case of fire since there are only 2 minutes before being overcome by smoke. Practice with a drill and have an escape plan with a meeting place outside. Test the smoke alarms monthly. Have a plan for pets. Check batteries and emergency kits. He distributed literature for pet safety and a home fire escape plan. He also gave out prizes to 3 club members.
Another successful Spring cleanup in Long Branch, NJ. It was a little chilly, but our volunteers managed to collect 260 pounds of trash!
This cleanup was made possible by Anthony Morrell, Monmouth County Clean Communities Coordinator. Also thanks to The City of Long Branch, NJ and the Long Branch Office of the Mayor for your support
FUN FACT: The first Rotary Club was founded by Paul Harris, a lawyer, in 1905 in Chicago.
(L-R) RCGLB President Dave Brown, Shore Regional HS Interact Club members Meghan Chewning, Lucia Mazza Softcheck, Max Oster, Kate McLoughlin, Eleni Arvantis - club president, Samantha Klein, Rotary Interact chair Mika Hon, and Mrs. Kristen Encarnacion, Teacher of English and Shore Regional HS Interact Counselor.
Mika Hon introduced guest speaker, Kristin Encarnacion who informed the membership that the Interact Club is the largest club at Shore Regional High School. Their 210 members help to support Send a Smile, Operation Gratitude, Reformation Food Pantry, The Jordy Foundation, and many more. They will also be sponsoring a Ted-X talk. Each of the six students present spoke of their role in the program.
Pres. Dave Brown (R) thanks Bill Donnelly, Past District Governor, Red Bank Rotary past president and current RCGLB member for informative and entertaining presentation on the Gift of Life program.
Speaker - Bill Donnelly, Business Coach, 21-year Rotary member, Past President Red Bank Rotary, Past District Governor, 10 years board of Trustees
Topic - The “Gift of Life International” sponsored by Rotary Clubs Highlights: The mission is to provide lifesaving surgery to children ages 1 to 13 that are born with congenital heart defects and live in countries that cannot provide treatment. The funding supports the volunteer doctors and nurses plus tools, supplies and training for local doctors. He related his experiences observing the surgeries in these foreign countries. The volunteering doctors are from prestigious U.S. universities. Bill also cited statistics of the major increase in surgeries and ICUs.
President Dave (L) introduced guests, Area Governor Mark Morro (R) and Spring Lake Club
If you're interested in learning more about this and other monthly donations, please send a message or visit us during weekly Friday meetings at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant.
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Special thank you to the surrounding food pantries for accepting these donations and providing a wonderful Easter dinner to so many families.
Speaker: Brian Mullen of East Coast Movement & Performance Institute of Athlete Performance, Past President of Asbury Park Rotary
Highlights: As a physical therapist he recognized the need for performance training to prevent injuries and improve performance. At MPI state of the art technology is used to perform in depth biomechanics assessments. The mission is to provide athletes with a comprehensive evaluation and develop a program tailored to the athlete’s strength deficits for rehabilitation. Some of the technology used is Movement Capture, Electromyography, Isometric Dynamometer, Force Plates, Video tapes are used to teach children how to land to prevent knee injuries and to help with golf swing injuries. Exercises and walking are beneficial to prevent injuries.
President Dave (L) presented Sylvia Allen, founder of Sylvia's Children and Daryl Wordelmann, co-owner of Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant and founder of Single Parents with MS honorary membership plaques for their commitment to the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self".
Speaker - Daniel Rivera (R), Director of Operations Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County being thanked for his presentation to the club.
Highlights: The speaker related his childhood history and how his life was enriched after he joined the organization. The Club, a non-profit organization, was established 1938 in Asbury Park. There are 5,000 clubs in America. Currently there are also Clubs located in Long Branch, Red Bank, Neptune and throughout Monmouth County. The mission of the Club is to empower children to reach their potential and to support children’s mental health and social and emotional development within a safe and supportive environment. Some programs are career workshops, community service, entrepreneurship, 101 business, tutoring for literacy and monitoring children as they progress.
Andrea Steinberg collected Happy Dollars Respectfully submitted, Retta Schwartzstein
Rotary Club president Dave Brown inducted Andrea Steinberg into the club as an honorary member at the club's February dinner at Mar Belo Portuguese Restaurant. Andrea, who is the club's personal server for our weekly lunch meetings at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant, was presented with a plaque for Honorary Membership because club members believe her commitment to Rotary's philosophy of "Service Above Self" warrants this recognition.
Guest speaker - Karl Vilacoba (L), Communications Director and Project Manager for Monmouth University’s Urban Coast Institute is being thanked by club president David Brown for his informative presentation.
Highlights - The Institute was established in 2005. The mission is to serve the university and public as a forum for research, education and collaboration in the development of science based policies and to propose programs for a healthy and resilient coastal eco-system for the mid-Atlantic coastal area. The speaker displayed and discussed the research portal on his computer. Some topics of research discussed were: commercial fishing, fishing data, off shore wind development, sea cables, habitat of the ocean floor, water quality for swimming and fishing, sand mounds, marine life, ports, shipping patterns and conservation. The Coast Guard uses the portal for infrastructure changes , shipping, etc. The speaker distributed brochures.
Pres. Dave Brown thanks Lisa Kelly for very informative presentation.
Speaker - Lisa Kelly, Adult Programming Outreach Manager, Long Branch Public Library Highlights: The L.B. Library was awarded the 2023 National Medal for Museum & Library Service given by the federally supported Institute of Museum and Library Service. Senator Cory Booker nominated the library for the award. The mission of the library is to meet the needs of users from toddlers to seniors by creating relevant services and programs. The Broadway location is under renovation and will reopen in September. The library is temporarily relocated at 131 Bath Ave., Long Branch. Membership is free to L.B. residents. For non-residents the fee is $20. A full time social worker is on staff. Some of the numerous services available are: special programs for children & adults, citizenship classes, community space for bookings, a local history room, copy and faxing machines & services, wi-fi & hot spot rentals, free notary services, standard test practices (GRE, SAT, etc.), job research, resume writing, free trouble shooting for computers and help with taxes. There will be a program for Black History Month. The speaker distributed brochures to everyone.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President, Dave Brown (left) and Club Secretary, Ken Gittell (right) present Senator Vin Gopal with a donation of over 350 items of socks, underwear, and undershirts for men, women, girls, and boys. This donation to the senator’s Annual Sock Drive benefits people without permanent housing in our area. Thanks to our club members for supporting this project by purchasing the needed items.
Club President Dave Brown thanks Guest Speaker- Eric Carney, President & CEO of Monmouth Medical Center, Long Branch & Monmouth Medical Center South, Lakewood
Highlights: The center is rated the highest in N.J. by the national survey. The labor & delivery unit and the behavior health outpatient center are the largest in N.J. He discussed the many facets of the excellent nursing care. Presently the Long Branch buildings are undergoing renovations. The hospital also purchased land at Fort Monmouth to erect a center for additional services. Plans are to commence in 2026 and be finalized by 2030. Allocation of beds is determined strictly by N.J. State Law.
President Dave Brown presented Wesley Pfaff with a $1,000 check as a donation for the Affordable Housing Alliance for client transportation. $500.00 came from the club and Dr. David Pfaff matched that with another $500.
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch, Jingle Bell Buddies Program, supported the Long Branch Christmas Toy Drive this year by donating over 185 new toys to be given to local children.
This wonderful event took place on December 16th - To everyone's amazement, Santa himself welcomed the families and even had time to take photos while listening to the children's Christmas wish lists!
Thanks to the efforts of Stan Szuba, Danna Kawut, Kristopher Parker, the fire department and all the staff and volunteers the event was a huge success. Approximately 260 gifts were given and many smiles were received.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Speaker - George Lazarou, principal security strategist at the Alpha Group. The company’s focus is on cybersecurity and services.
Highlights: The company works with the military, hospitals, health care, and small and midsize companies to manage risk, credit and data liability. The company follows the rules set by the defense department. Other information discussed was: Social engineering attacks, Ransomware attacks , Loss of technology equipment, Hackers, Property scams and Scams in general. The speaker offered this advice, “ Not everything you see is what it really may be”. Discussion followed.
* Andrea the club’s server at Rooney's collected Happy Dollars. President Dave presented Andrea with a holiday gift from the club.
Speaker - Sylvia Allen, President of Allen Consulting & founder of Sylvia’s Children Highlights: Sylvia’s Children is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of orphaned children in Uganda, Africa through education and medical benefits. She has established a 6,000 square foot medical clinic for visiting doctors. Sylvia brought a pediatrician and two nurses to help during her November visit. 1,000 children received goodie bags at the Christmas party. She related the many programs supported by the organization.
Twelve hardy volunteers braved the cold at Wall Speedway's Turkey Trot races on November 25th to sell 50/50 raffle tickets to raise money for Sylvia's Children and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch.
Pres. Dave presents Melanie a Rotary mug in appreciation of her informative presentation
Speaker - Melanie Siano - director at Holmdel & Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Homes
Topic - Benefits of prepaid funeral and cemetery expenses
The speaker related the benefits of preplanning for funeral arrangements, planning or prepaying the expenses and discussed the many legal requirements.
Suggested also were for individuals to review their vital statistics for a death certificate, to specify instructions for the celebration of one’s end of life and a “right of control” directive. N.J. allows for funerals to be prepaid into a third-party funeral trust account. Benefits for honorably discharged military veterans include burials at the National Cemetery.
Discussion ensued about various types of funerals such as natural or green burials, water cremation and human composting.
Pres. Dave Brown (L) thanks Wesley Pfaff with a club mug in appreciation for his informative presentation on the Affordable Housing Alliance homeless program.
Dr. David Pfaff introduced the speaker, his son Wesley Pfaff representing -
The Affordable Housing Alliance
This non-profit organization is funded by donations and federal, state and local sources The mission is to provide a safe haven for those in need and to provide access to essential resources . The staff has 80 employees. Sixteen beds, food and employment opportunities are provided for the homeless for 30 days. Social service agencies, friends and family refer clients to the shelter located at Fort Monmouth. The agency assists with job applications and connects individuals with community services. The AHA provides individuals with opportunities to live independent fulfilled lives within a supportive community setting. For more information contact - housingall.org/donate-2
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch members volunteered at the Long Branch Jack-O-Lantern Woods at Jackson Woods on Saturday, October 28th. The City of Long Branch led by Mayor Pallone; Dana Kawut, Program Special Events Coordinator; Stan Dziuba, Director of DPW, his team and many volunteers put together a fantastic Halloween adventure for the parents and children of Long Branch and the surrounding area. Over 1,000 people probably attended the event. It was a beautiful day with temperatures in the 70's. Free food and refreshments including ice cream were made available. Special thanks to Kathy and Nan for their efforts in helping make the event the success it was.
(L-R) Long Branch President Dave Brown, District 7505 Governor Tom Kozempel, and AG Mark Morro
President Dave Brown (L) presenting check for $1,000 to Shelter Box USA in honor of District Governor Tom Kozempel and thanking him for an inspiring presentation.
Club president Dave Brown thanks guest speaker, Larry Sternbach, Executive Director, Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development, for a very informative presentation about their services to both businesses and individuals looking for employment in Monmouth County.
David "Doc" Pfaff is presented with Rotary Paul Harris pin +8 by club president Dave Brown at ice cream outing at the Lighthouse in Long Branch. Paul Harris award is given to members who financially support Rotary International.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch and Sylvias Children teamed up to raise money for their causes at Wall Speedway. The event was fun for all, and the fundraiser was very successful due to the support of the Speedway and their friendly and generous patrons.
Sylvia's Children supports a school of 1,000 students in Uganda, Africa of which 250 are orphans. The school consists of dormitories, a farm, medical facilities, etc. Many students go on to college after they finish their primary education to become teachers, nurses, lawyers, beauticians, small business owners.
The Rotary Club of Long Branch supports local food pantries, Christmas for families in need, local scholarships, international projects such as heart surgeries for children in third world countries, water projects, disaster relief, elimination of polio, education, etc.
Club President (L) Dave Brown and Past President Paul Newell present Cristen Glende, Assistant Director, Valerie Fund with a donation of toiletries for nurses in the Monmouth Medical Center Emergency Room to give to homeless patients. Cristen is the daughter of Paul Newell.
The donation consisted of toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, bath soap, lip balm, deodorant, file boards, Q-Tips, etc.
The Valerie Fund's mission is to provide individualized care to children at medical centers close to home, because they believe the most effective way to heal the children in their care is to treat them emotionally, socially and developmentally, as well as medically.
When Valerie Goldstein lost her battle to cancer at the age of 9, her parents, Ed and Sue, were determined to help other families in similar situations gain access to more comprehensive care in child centered atmospheres close to where they lived. They had spent most of Valerie's short life traveling from their home in New Jersey to get her the most advanced pediatric cancer treatment in their area, which was in New York City at the time. That meant a 90-minute drive one way on a daily basis. For six years the Goldsteins made that journey, bringing Valerie to doctor's appointments, chemotherapy, radiation, emergency visits, surgery and hospital stays. All the while leaving their other young daughter Stacy, just two years older than Valerie, home with babysitters. Valerie often felt nausea after chemotherapy and still had to endure the long trip home. The travel disrupted family life and forced them to rearrange work schedules. The whole endeavor took an emotional and physical toll on the entire family, sapping their energy at a time when they needed it most.
Ed and Sue were convinced that there was a better way to approach children with serious illnesses and their families. They envisioned a place that could provide families with regional outpatient treatment centers at top pediatric hospitals within an hour's drive of most of the state's population, providing state-of-the-art medical and emotional care in a happy, upbeat child focused environment.
In 1977, just one year after Valerie passed away, Ed and Sue saw their vision realized when they opened the first Valerie Fund Center at Overlook Hospital in Summit, NJ, just 20 minutes from their home.
Today, when you walk through the doors of a Valerie Fund Center you are greeted by a team of social workers, psychologists and child life specialists that support you throughout your journey to ease the burden so your family can concentrate on healing.
Club President Dave Brown thanks Det. Debra Bassinder for an engaging, informative, and eye-opening presentation.
It was a great night at Mar Belo Portuguese Restaurant for our monthly RCGLB dinner meeting. The food was excellent as usual, and the turnout was very good.
Det. Debra Bassinder from the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office, Financial Crimes & Public Corruption Unit, gave a very informative presentation on how to avoid being scammed by mail, internet, phone, and social media. These are crimes that have increased exponentially in the past few years and have been supercharged with the advent of AI.
Four signs that it's a scam are 1) Scammers pretend to be from an organization you know. 2)Scammers say there's a problem or a prize. 3) Scammers pressure you to act immediately. 4) Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way.
On behalf of the RCGLB I would like to thank Det. Bassinder for her presentation and Det. TJ Manzo for putting me in touch with such a knowledgeable and engaging speaker. Both of these individuals stepped up on short notice to serve their community with information to protect them from these crimes.
These kinds of interactions build positive relationships between the Prosecutor's Office and the public.
REPORT SCAMS TO THE FTC - If you were scammed or think you saw a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Gift of Life
Melanie Hon narrated a fact filled video of what Gift of Life means to so many needy children around the word suffering from heart issues.
THE GIFT OF LIFE PROGRAM, which began in 1975, is today a worldwide Rotary International Service Program. Its primary purpose is to help those needy children who require corrective heart surgery secure another lease on life through the miracle of open-heart surgery in a Gift of Life Participating Hospital.
2022-2023 President Paul Newell receives Past President pin and thank you for his service.
Past District Governor Bill Donnelly installs Dave Brown as Club President for 2023-2024.
New members accompanied by their sponsors are inducted into the club by Bill Donnelly.
It was a beautiful night; the air quality and weather gods were with us. The turn-out was exceptional at 85, even more than expected. Long Branch Mayor and Rotarian John Pallone was in attendance with his wife Svetlana as well as council members Bill Dangler with his wife Theresa and Mario Vieira and his wife Linda. There were many non-Rotary guests who got a chance to see what Rotary is about.
Once again, we thank Terry & Walter for providing a wonderful venue for this annual event. The food from Local Smoke was delicious and plentiful. There was an abundance of dessert choices to pick from brought by Rotary members. Andrea Steinberg, the club's server at Rooney's Oceanfront and chef made and donated 65 delicious cupcakes for the event.
Terry welcomed everyone and thanked them for supporting Jingle Bell Buddies.
Past District Governor Bill Donnelly presented president Paul Newell with a Past President pin and thanked him for his service in 2022-2023.
Bill did an excellent job installing our new president, Dave Brown along with club officers and board members. He also inducted 4 new members into the club, Peter Cunha, John Blumberg, and Malena & Matt Henderson. We look forward to working with them on community projects.
We congratulate Dave Brown and wish him the best for his presidency. Dave has generously volunteered to be president for 2 years.
A basket of wine and restaurant gift certificates valued at approximately $1,000 was raffled off . There was also a 50/50 with over $650 going to the winner who donated all of it back to the Club's Jingle Bell Buddies program. Net proceeds go to the Jingle Bell Buddies program.
Thank you to Terry Janeczek and the Club's Jingle Bell Buddies team for a wonderful evening.
President Paul Newell thanking Tom Matulewicz, Master Gardener for his informative presentation
Judy Syms receives her 4th Paul Harris award from Pres. Paul
Guest Speaker Tom Matulewicz, Master Gardener from the Rutgers Master Gardener Program spoke about composting. Composting is a controlled , aerobic process that converts organic materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment or mulch through natural decomposition. The end result is compost which can be used in vegetable gardens, lawns, around trees, shrubs, and flowers.
This recycling of food waste takes it out of the waste stream keeping it out of the landfill.
An Earth Machine composter was donated by Tom Arnone, Monmouth County Commissioner for the club to raffle.
President Paul Newell thanks Donna Ongsiako for her moving presentation.
Rotary Board of Directors presents Donna Ongsiako & Dana Richards of Survivors of Violent Crimes with a check for $1,000 to help their
Sylvia Alan introduced the speaker, Donna Ongsiako founder of the non-profit organization Survivors of Violent Crimes.
The mission is to provide survivors of violent crimes with resources for healing and education, to raise government and community awareness of victim needs and the treatment process for PTSD. The speaker related in detail her heart wrenching story. She was attacked while alone in her own home by a teenage boy wielding a knife. He slashed her repeatedly and stole her car. Miraculously she was able to call the police. This 16 year old boy was caught and later sentenced to 15 years in jail. She showed everyone photos of her wounds. She suffers from PTSD and from body damage. After meeting other victims, she recognized the need to form an organization to help other survivors to deal with trauma. She distributed flyers about the organization.
Jim Foley is thanked by Pres. Paul Newell for his entertaining and informative presentation on the First Ladies that have visited Long Branch in it's heyday.
Jim is the Deal Historian and President of the Long Branch Historical Museum Association
The dinner at Rooney's was a success, great food, friends, conversations, and view. Can't go wrong with that combination.
Pres. Paul Newell presented our guest speaker from Australia with a token of our thanks for her wonderful presentation.
Lisa Petty has worked as a performer, teacher, movement director or choreographer for many years in tertiary institutions and theatre companies. After working in New York for ten years, Lisa has collaborated with both professionals and students in a wide range of Australian dance, theatre and opera productions including Macbeth, Twelfth Night, Squizzy, Our Country’s Good, Cloud 9, Alice in Wonderland, The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Chapel Perilous, The Rise and Fall of Mahagonny and Dear Ida. Lisa researched the Role of Dance in WWII Australia as part of her Master of Theatre thesis. The production Dear Ida was created as part of this work and was most recently staged at La Mama theatre, Melbourne, Australia, in 2022.
Lisa spoke about her research into the role of the Australian WWII community dance halls. The talk provided insight into the pivotal role that the dancehalls played in maintaining cohesion and wellbeing on the WWII Australian home-front. For many, the dances “were everything”. At the dances you could lose yourself in sensual pleasures and escape the tensions and grief brought by war.
Lisa also spoke about the effect of the American presence in Australia throughout the war.
New member Lori Gabriel Petschauer is inducted by Pres. Paul Newell.
Pres.-Elect Dave Brown reads Rev. Al Acer's Litany of Expectations to Lori.
Retta Schwartzstein (R) presents Lori with Rotary pin.
Pres. Paul presents a Rotary mug to Kara Johantgen thanking her for her presentation.
Speaker: Kara Johantgen,MSW - N.J. Department of Children and Families
Kara described the functions and scope of the agency. There are 6,000 agents divided among the N.J counties. Presently Monmouth county is tracking 500 families. The function of the agency is to protect, provide safe shelter and health care for at risk children via adoption or foster care. Special needs children are included. The agency intervenes with families when perilous situations are reported. The children are placed with relatives or vetted caring families before formal foster care or adoption is concluded. This year 155 children were placed in foster care. Half of these were placed with relatives. Another 86 children were placed for full adoption. The vetting process for full adoption is 5 months. This year the need for care has decreased. For more information call 1-877 NJ Foster or www.njfoster.org also 1-800 99 ADOPT or www.njadopt.org.
Pres. Paul thanking Andrea with a Rotary mug for her wonderful presentation.
Andrea showing cookbook she was involved in producing.
President Paul introduced the speaker, Andrea Steinberg, professional chef. Andrea Steinberg is also the club’s server at Rooney’s. Topic - Chef to the Stars Andrea related her history in the culinary profession. She graduated from Johnson and Wales University, a leader in food innovation and technology. She worked with celebrity chefs on the TV Food Network for seven years. She participated as chef assistant on the programs for Rachel Ray, Judge Judy, Regis and Kelly , Mario Batali and Bobby Flay. Andrea displayed pictures of her dinners staged for tv and the cookbook , “The Food Network”s Kitchen “ that she co-authored. She has also cooked for private parties for celebrities. When Andrea became a single mother she resigned from her position at the Food Network. She taught cooking in public school for grades 6 to 12. Currently she will serve as chef to private individuals and organizations. In conclusion Andrea stated that serving at Rooney’s has been just as pleasurable as her chef experiences.
Club President Paul Newell (R) thanked the mayor for his speech and service to the community.
The President introduced the evening’s speaker Long Branch Mayor John Pallone. The topic for the evening was “Experience in Washington and Celebrating Black History Month.” In Washington the Mayor convened with U.S. New Jersey Senator Frank Pallone. As a result of that meeting, the Mayor announced that Federal funds from the Infrastructure Bill will be granted to Long Branch to construct a pedestrian tunnel under the tracks at the railroad station. This will connect both sides of Morris avenue to enhance public safety. The Mayor related historical information found researching the National Archives. He described in detail recorded events concerning the wartime heroism and considerable contributions and achievements of unsung black citizens to American society. In conclusion, the Mayor thanked and credited the many black individuals that have contribute to the growth and achievements of the city of Long Branch.
Club President Paul Newell and President- elect Dave Brown thanked the speaker and presented him with the Rotary mug.
Speaker: President -elect Dave Brown introduced his son the speaker for the meeting-
Dave G. Brown II, Ocean Township Business Administrator,
Presently - Monmouth County Democratic Chairman
Topic - “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants”
Highlights: First Dave thanked his father for his dad’s prodding to seek high goals and a college education. Because of this encouragement he attained a Masters degree in Public Administration from Kean University. He explained his experiences as a student intern with the Chief of State of the New Jersey State Senate where he learned to develop a resume. He was an aid to the committee on Women and Minority Businesses. He also worked with Senator Ron Rice. While Dave was working on his Master’s degree he was an aid to then Mayor Cory Booker of Newark. He was involved with Booker’s trajectory from Mayor to U.S. Senator. Dave related his greatest challenge , the project to establish the Prudential Center in Newark. Dave’s extensive resume includes serving as a director Linden Roselle Sewerage , forums of public administrations and as an officer of many civic organizations. Dave expressed his gratitude for his family’s encouragement and the many opportunities afforded him to learn from the “greats”.
(L) President-Elect Dave Brown being thanked for his informative presentation by President Paul Newell.
Speaker: President Elect, Dave Brown Topic: Black History - The life of Clarence LaVaughn Franklin, American Baptist Minister & Civil Rights Activist
Highlights: Dave related the story of C.L. Franklin’s rise from being the grandchild of slaves in the Mississippi delta to a position of prestige and authority among African Americans. He was born in 1915. He was adopted by his mother’s second husband and assumed his stepfather’s name. Franklin fathered 5 children and adopted a son. His career path started by being ordained at age 18. He studied at a fundamentalist seminary and LeMoyne College. Franklin began by preaching at New Salem Baptist Church in Mississippi, then in Buffalo before leading the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit. He also traveled as a circuit preacher bringing along his daughters to sing. As a charismatic speaker and preacher, the sermons preached from the pulpit were broadcast on the radio and distributed on records. He became known as “The Million Dollar Voice”. He formed C.L. Franklin’s Gospel Caravan featuring his own daughter Aretha Franklin and other singers. (Aretha Franklin later became the famous “Queen of Soul” singer, songwriter). Franklin, a close ally of Dr. Martin Luther King, is also remembered for organizing the 1963 Walk To Freedom in Detroit that attracted 125,000 marchers and forming the Trade Union Leadership Council. He was shot and wounded during a robbery of his home and remained in a coma for five years. He died on July 27, 1984. His legacy is to “raise consciousness of self and to encourage individuals to assert that they are somebody.”
President Paul Newell thanked the speaker and presented him with the Rotary mug.
Dave Brown introduced the speaker, William Broughton, L.B. Public Safety Director.
Director Broughton introduced guest Kelly Hughes, assistant to the director.
Topic: Black History
Highlights - First the Director related his personal trajectory from starting as a police officer to City Manager of Teaneck, N.J. and to his present position.
He started with the history of Black Africans brought to the U.S. in 1525 under adverse conditions for the purpose of providing free labor to plantations in Florida. The Black History event was first introduced in 1915 as National Negro Week. The holiday is in February to coincide with the birthdays of President Lincoln and Frederick Douglas.
The Director recounted facts about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., American Baptist Minister & civil rights activist. Starting in 1955 Dr. King organized peaceful civil rights protests. Some of his significant accomplishments were the Voting Rights Act and the desegregation of public buses. He won the Noble Peace Prize in 1964. He was assassinated in 1968. Director Broughton concluded that Black History month is meant to enrich lives and to give everyone thanks for fighting for equality.
Paul Peacock (L) presented the Paul Harris award to Al Pescoe for his $1,000 donation to Rotary International.
*Paul Peacock - Paul explained the numerous humanitarian causes that the Rotary Foundation supports. Member donations of any increment are welcomed to the Foundation. Our district donates $60,000 a year to the Foundation. In three years, half of that amount is returned to our district for awarding grants to clubs.
Speaker - Sylvia Allen, founder of Sylvia’s Children & Rotary member of a Minnesota Chapter
Highlights: Sylvia’s Children, a non-profit organization was formed 20 years ago. The mission is to educate, provide health care and food to orphans and deprived children in Uganda, Africa. Over the years Sylvia has raised $2,000,000 for the cause. The schools are based on the British model starting with baby classes, primary & secondary schools, college & technical schools. The sales from a series of businesses that were created also provide funds for the schools. These include pig farms, chicken farms, etc. Sylvia distributed brochures. Everyone is invited to join
Sylvia’s Children’s Anniversary Trip to Uganda on June 7, 2023
President Paul Newell thanked the speaker and presented her with the Rotary cup.
Guet Speaker - Lauren Dorman, registered dietician and certified Diabetes educator Highlights - Prior to forming her own business Lauren was employed at Monmouth Medical hospital for 20 years. Along with private consultations Lauren lectures to organizations, conferences, events and schools. She discussed the diet myths that lead to binges, the effects of diets on mental health, joyful physical activities, negative body talk and self-care. Additionally, she stated that genes are also responsible for body weight. She distributed to everyone packets of information describing the diet myths and behavior changing goals for mental and physical health. Also included were lunch and dinner menus for optimum good health.
(L-R) Club members Melanie Matlosz, Mika Hon, Terry Janeczyk, Santa (Gordon Heggie), Judy Syms, Mrs. Claus (Marianne Powers)
In 2021 the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch started Jingle Bell Buddies, headed up by Terry Janeczyk, to bring the joy of Christmas to 5 local families. The Long Branch School System supplied the names of families in need who were then asked to fill out wish lists which the club did everything possible to make come true. In addition, the families were supplied with groceries to help get them through the holidays. Approximately $1,000 was budgeted for each family, parents and children.
After the success of last year’s Jingle Bell Buddies the club expanded the number of families to 10 for 2022. After months of planning about 20 volunteers formed 9 teams to shop for gifts and groceries for each family which were delivered on 12/22 and 12/23 by Santa and Mrs. Claus with the help of the elves.
This year Mrs. Claus teamed up with Santa (club members Marianne Powers & Gordon Heggie) for a double treat for the kids and parents alike. The joy expressed by the families made the Rotary slogan “Service Above Self” even more meaningful to those who volunteered.
It takes a community for projects like Jingle Bell Buddies to be successful. With inflation at an all-time high this past year it has been difficult for many families to get by. Thank you to all the club members who volunteered at the fundraisers and to those who shopped and delivered the food and gifts to the families.
Thank you to the following for your generous donations that helped make this project possible:
Atlantic Fire & Security, Inc.
Damiano Funeral Home, Inc.
Lawrence and Irene Daum
Michael DeJohn
Delicious Orchards
Fine Fare, PTJ Inc.
Jan’s Optical
Monmouth University
Al Peskoe
Sacco’s Landscape, Inc.
Adam Schneider
Ronald and Samira Shalhoub
Alexis Tucci
Tucci, Hot & Crupi
Wave of Hope Foundation
Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home
If you would like to help next year please contact Terry at taj4@aol.com and you will receive information next fall.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Program: Speaker, Joe Reynolds , volunteer director of Save Coastal Wildlife Highlights: The organization is a non-profit N.J. based wildlife preservation organization funded by charitable donations. The mission is to protect coastal wildlife from the Raritan Bay to the Delaware Bay in N.J. The organization is dedicated to promote scientific research, to educate the public about biodiversity and with their volunteers to manage the plastics and trash affecting the habitat on the Jersey shore. The speaker described many aspects of the diverse wildlife. He distributed to the members highly illustrated brochures.
President -elect Dave Brown inducting new member Marianne Powers (center) with sponsor Retta Schwartzstein to the left.
Retta being presented with Rotary mug for her presentation.
Paul Peacock reading Rev. Al Acer's Litany of Expectations
Retta Schwartzstein showing photo of her as a child actor.
Vice President Dave Brown opened the meeting.
Pledge - Al Pescoe, Invocation - Paul Peacock
*Marianne Powers was inducted into membership by Vice President Dave Brown. Sponsor Retta Schwartzstein presented Marianne with a Rotary pin and welcomed her to the Club.
Paul Peacock read the inspirational message for Rotary members written by deceased member Reverend Al Acer.
*Judy Syms, treasurer’s report - 10 people signed up for the Holiday Dinner on Dec. 6 @ Rooney’s. $10, 510.00 has been received for Jingle Bell Buddies. $2000 was received from the Wave of Hope Foundation from Frank Crupi. Fine Fare donated $250 in food. Monmouth University and Bill Donnelly pledged $200.
To date $325 was received for the November food drive. Checks for $350 were sent to each of the food banks on November 1. The money received in November will be added to the $350 for each food bank on December 1. Investors Bank had donated $5,000 which is being spread over 3 months.
*Ken Gittell - Ken announced that 9 people volunteered for the Wall Speedway event on November 26. The profits are divided as half to Sylvia’s Children and the remainder to the Rotary Club. The Holiday Dinner is December 6. You can sign up on line.
* Program - “Childhood Adventures in Show Biz”, Retta Schwartzstein speaking .
Highlights : World War II - Retta’s family move from Boston to the Maryland/Washington D.C. metro area for her father’s prominent position with a U.S. government war agency. At age 4 Retta is enrolled in a D.C. drama class and quickly becomes the for the leading actress in the programs. She also learns to tap dance. She performs on national radio. with the USO for the troops and for charity events. She showed everyone a photo of herself in the tap dancing costume and demonstrated a few tap steps. After the war the family moved to North Jersey to enable her father to commute to N.Y. for his work. While in grammar school Retta again is enrolled in drama and dancing lessons. She told the story of her audition and performance in the movie the Naked City which was filmed on location in New York City. Retta also shows everyone archival pictures and newspaper clippings of her scene in the film. Her professional name is Retta Coleman. She became a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Radio and Television Artists. She related her meeting with Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis’ zany , funny greeting to her when she visited the film opening in N.Y. Retta shows photos and relates anecdotes about her other performances on TV such as the Perry Como show, I Remember Mama, etc. She continued to perform on national radio also throughout her college year. She learned dance at the American School of Ballet and studied art at the Art Student’s League in New York. She is a graduate. of Syracuse University.
Paul Peacock and President Elect Dave Brown presented Terry Janeczek with the Paul Harris Award for her service to the community, integrity, fairness, & organization of events. The award was sponsored by the Gift of Life organization to clubs that donated $500. or more to their cause.
Vikki Hurley-Schubert, Director of Community Relations for Assisting Hands Home Care being thanked for her very informative and passionate presentation.
The organization serves Mercer, Monmouth & Ocean counties, has the National Institute for Home Care Accreditation and is partnered with the Department of Veterans Affairs in the Community Care Network. Home aides are certified, bonded and licensed. Vikki being consumed with caring for her ailing mother recognized the dire need for home caring giving assistance. Consequently she joined the Assisting Hands Home Care organization. Home care services offered are : hourly, overnights & live in care, companionship, light
housekeeping, meal preparation & feeding, bathing, dressing, ambulation, local errands, and Alzheimer’s/dementia care. Their director of nursing creates a special plan for the patient. Brochures were distributed about Fall Prevention, Veteran’s Services and the Holistic approach to home care. For assistance call - 732-272-0222 or email
President Paul Newell (R) thanks Joe and presents him with a Rotary mug.
Speaker: Joe Kane - Council of Compulsive Gambling of N.J The group is partially funded by Casino donations. Joe related his history of addiction to alcohol and gambling that adversely affected his career, finances and marriage. His savior was joining the Gamblers Anonymous program to help him recover from his addictions. The program founded in 1957 is an international fellowship of people who have compulsive gambling problems. They meet regularly to share their experiences and offer strength and hope to help each other recover. Psychological help and support is available by calling 800-gambler. Also available are sites such as Bet Blocker where an individual can legally block themselves from internet betting. Discussion from club members followed with suggestions to campaign for reduction in advertising for gambling sites.
Thank you to all the Rotary members who helped make our End of Summer fundraising event so successful. A special shout out to Ken Gittell and Stephanie Gittell, Mika Hon, Melanie Matlosz, Mike Schwartzstein, Carl Jennings, and Cori Socher for all their help in setting/cleaning clean up. Also a special thanks to Gordon Heggie for providing the music for the night. The weather was beautiful and the food great but most of all the camaraderie was superb. It was so nice to see at least 25 non-Rotarians who came as guests of our members. We are well on our way to totally fund our Jingle Bell Buddies project. My numbers are not official but it looks like we made well over $3500.00 at this event.
Again my sincerest thank you for all you do for the families in Long Branch.
Terry Janeczek
PS-- we will be hosting another fundraiser get together in early summer for next years program.
Speaker Dr. Gabor Barabas, proprietor, New Jersey Repertory Theater, Long Branch
Highlights: Dr. Barabas with his wife Suzanne founded the New Jersey Repertory company on lower Broadway, Long Branch in 1997. The headquarters are the Lumia Theater. The 75 seat theater was donated by the Lumia family to be used as a non-profit organization. The company’s mission is to develop and produce new plays with professional actors and to make a cultural contribution to the community. The company is supported by subscriptions and donations. He discussed the many trials and tribulations concerning initiating the organization and the affect of Covid on all concerned. On display was the architectural rendering of the cultural center planned to house new theaters, art education centers, art studios and galleries. The school property was purchased from donations. Many questions ensued concerning the affect of Covid on the organization. Some member suggestions were for the building to house a room specifically to be labeled and used for the Rotary Club and to plan an evening fundraising event. There will be 6 new plays planned for the 2022-2023 season. The next play is called Eden Prairie, 1971. October 20 -November 20.
District Governor Michael Thompson (R) presented club President Paul Newell with a banner honoring Jennifer Jones as 2022-2023 Rotary International President, the first female to hold the office.
President Paul Newell called the meeting to order.
Pledge-Al Pescoe
Invocation-Paul Peacock
The President announced the speaker for the meeting is District 7505 Governor 2022-2023 Michael Thompson.
Also introduced were guests, candidates for membership Jake Jones and Paul Kapish
Guest Speaker:
Gail Winterstella, District Governor assistant, member of the Spring Lake Rotary Club introduced the speaker.
Governor Thompson joined the Marlton Rotary Club in 2012. He
served as President for two terms - 2017- 2018 & 2019-2020. The Governor owns & operates the Thompson Group Insurance Agency. He has participated & organized numerous club events, including Military Appreciation Day, Library Programs, Police Union Run 5K, youth programs including coaching and multiple humanitarian programs.
He is a member of the Evesham Economic Council the Evesham Education Foundation.
He attended Goldey-Beacom College, majoring in marketing & business management.
He attended the Rotary Leadership Institute where he currently is a facilitator. He is a member of the Marlton Zoning Board. He has received many service awards for his community service.
Presentation Highlights: “What can the District do to help clubs?”. Goal - to build relationships. First, the district hopes to receive more attention by reducing the number of emails sent to members. Available to clubs is a Face Book Page & free flyers to market events. Planned are twelve DG (Drinks with Governors) fellowship events with free food. Two free picnics are planned. One in central Jersey & the other in southern Jersey. He encouraged members to attend the District conference at the hotel Fontainebleau, Ocean City, Md. There will be two hospitality suites & a seafood fest. 15 golf courses are nearby.
Final topic- “Ways to Build Club Membership.” Club members could volunteer to assist other community civic organizations with their events. The fellowship would introduce other people to club members. Wearing club logo clothing at these events would also help give awareness of the Rotary Club. Questions to the Governor ensued.
He distributed his business card & a Rotary pin to everyone.
President Paul Newell presenting Lisa with a guest speaker mug as a thank you for her wonderful and informative presentation.
Barb Youchah introduced our guest speaker, Lisa Kelly, Programming & Outreach Manager from the Long Branch Public Library. Lisa has been connected with the library since 2008.
Highlights:
Free membership available to all Long Branch residents and businesses. $20. fee to non-residents.
Mission- to provide equal access, barrier free resources to every individual.
The library has received many awards from the community and the National Library association. In December 0f 2021 the library was awarded a grant from the N.J. Library Construction Bond Act for 3.1 million.
Some of the research and learning tools discussed were: Tutoring & studying languages, databases in business, health, education, etc. searching full text magazines, journals & encyclopedias, practice tests for qualifying exams such as SAT, Real Estate, etc..
There are 463 total programs including programs for children , teens, art & movies.
There are two libraries in the system. The main library is located on Broadway in Long Branch. The other library is on Lincoln Avenue. The main library has a movie theater available by reservation to library members. Museum passes and Notary service are also available. Discussion ensued with suggestions for a Rotary movie night.
Guest Speaker: Fernando of La Scarpetta (L) – Missionary, preacher and member of the Fabulous International Clowns, being thanked for his inspirational presentation at Rotary club meeting.
Fernando arrived in the US from his homeland of Argentina in 2001.His mission is to help prevent the world’s ills to uplift and inspire children to have good self-esteem. The clown performances teach values to children through comedy. Balloons are also provided at performances at schools & hospitals. As many as 3,000 children have attended a performance. Assignments and funds are provided internationally through church missionaries. Travel and personal expenses are paid for by the performers. His mantra is a happy heart leads to a happy life.
Dinner was held at Mar Belo Portuguese Restaurant / Lounge
Past President Mike Schwartzstein was thanked and presented with a pin by Past President Gordon Heggie for his service. Club Secretary Ken Gittell then presented Mike with a Certificate of Appreciation.
Past President Luciana Silva swore in Paul Newell as the club's 2022-2023 President.
Gordon welcomed Paul as the new president and presented him with a pin.
Gordon presented Dave Brown with a President-elect pin.
The board of directors took there swearing in very seriously.
President Paul Newell presented Retta Schwartzstein with flowers in appreciation of her support of the club and President Mike during 2021-2022.
Past President Mike and President Paul honored members of the club and community with Certificates of Appreciation for their service.
New member Preston Spencer (R) is welcomed into the club by (L-R) David Brown, Terry Janeczyk, and Club President Mike Schwartzstein.
Guest speaker Kristen Grazioso, Clean Ocean Action, is thanked by President Mike Schwartzstein.
June 3 Meeting notes - La Scarpetta Italian Grill & Pizzeria
Pres. Mike Schwartzstein opened the meeting
Pledge of Allegiance - Al Peskoe
Invocaion - Paul Peacock
Guests - Along with their parents, Alana Dos Santos and Ana Drake from Long Branch High School, recipients of the Long Branch Rotary scholarships. Both students will be attending Monmouth University.
New Business: Dave Brown inducted new member Preston Spencer. Terry Janeczyk read Al Acer's Litany of Expectations.
Announcements:
Changeover Dinner Tuesday, June 21st 6pm at Mar Belo Restaurant
June 11 8am clean-up by Stop & Shop (West End)
September 15th end of summer party hosted at the home of Terry Janeczyk
Sylvia Allen distributed flyers for Oceanfest. 75 vendors are participating along with 2 sand art sculptors.
Guest Speaker: Kristen Grazioso, Education Coordinator, Clean Ocean Action.
The organization is funded by donations. They monitor, test and help clear the Jersey coast from pollutants in order to protect the sea wildlife. To engage the community other activities include beach sweeps and educational events. Discussion ensued concerning wind farms. A pilot program for testing has been scheduled.
President Mike Schwartzstein thanked the speaker and presented her with a Rotary mug.
Judy receives her Paul Harris + 3 pin from President Mike
Mark Elia, owner of LB Distillery receives thank you from President Mike.
Our May night meeting at the Long Branch Distillery was a great success. The venue was very eclectic and comfortable, the drinks were delicious and the food from Tuzzio's always a treat.
Barb, thank you for arranging a wonderful evening.
Kristin Hock, Garden for Wildlife™/ New Jersey Audubon/National Wildlife Federation is thanked by Pres-Elect Paul Newell
Kristin Hock
New Jersey Audubon / Garden for Wildlife
In a few easy steps, you can make a big difference for local wildlife! Entice pollinators, like hummingbirds and butterflies, by transforming your outdoor space into a sanctuary enjoyed by humans and animals alike. It all starts with the end in mind by creating a plan for the space that you will transform. Not just for backyards, Gardening For Wildlife is possible anywhere that you live, learn, play, work, and worship.
* Plant a simple garden with native flowers that provide nectar for pollinators.
* Create a balcony garden with a variety of flowerpots to hold flowers and herbs.
* Transform a mowed grassy area into a milkweed patch with native grasses.
* Plant native trees and shrubs that produce berries and seeds to attract a variety of birds and wildlife.
With less than twenty percent of unclaimed space available, New Jersey is running out of land and is projected to be the first state in our nation to reach build out. This means that all land has been accounted for as protected or already developed. Human centered land use, such as shopping malls and housing developments, greatly reduce habitat for native wildlife. This is where you come in – by becoming a steward of your property and joining a nationwide movement of over 217,000 gardens!
Gardening for Wildlife is conducted through a partnership between New Jersey Audubon and the National Wildlife Federation. The program provides official recognition for properties that meet five key elements necessary for wildlife: food, water, cover, places for wildlife to raise young, and using wildlife-friendly landscaping practices. These properties are then recognized as Certified Wildlife Habitats™.
President-elect Paul Newell (L) thanking guest speakers
Guest speakers Don Miragliotta and Joan Desmarais from Monmouth County Workforce Development gave a very informative presentation this past Friday at our first weekly lunch meeting at La Scarpetta Italian Grill & Pizzeria in West Long Branch. The food was great with service to match.
The Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development prepares the people in our community for careers in various industries that promote self-sufficiency, not just jobs to carry them through to the next paycheck. They do this by providing opportunities that build the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to meet employer needs and be competitive in the workforce of today.
The Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development is the administrative entity for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and employs the staff of the Workforce Development Program. These Workforce Development programs are tailored to suit the needs of both employers and jobseekers in Monmouth County. By helping the unemployed or underemployed find work that’s right for them, and matching employers up with workers who have the training and skills their businesses require, these programs help bolster economic growth in Monmouth County and the surrounding regional service area. Centers are located in Eatontown and Neptune. These facilities are hubs where clients can find a variety of employment and training resources — most offered for free.
Guest Speaker- Linda Savino, volunteer Executive Director, occupational therapist with Pause To Thrive, a health and wellness organization.
Mission: “To help you no matter what problems, crises or obstacles you face”
Highlites:
The goals are to build a resilience model for individuals to gain inner strength and inner joy through mindful meditation, Reiki healing, yoga, art therapy, tapping, and attendance at restful retreats.
The organization found that 60% of Covid victims suffer from anxiety.
Monmouth Medical Center was the first medical facility to recognize behavioral health.
Mental health is not covered by insurance programs.
The organization is funded by donations and fees for services.
Our next lunch meeting will be Friday, 5/6 12:15pm at La Scarpetta Italian Grill & Pizzeria. 167 Locust Ave (next to Dollar General). Our guest speaker will be Larry Sternbach, Monmouth County Workforce Development.
Club President Mike Schwartzstein thanks Tom Arnone, Monmouth County Commissioner, Director - Made in Monmouth & Monmouth County Economic Development for his informative presentation.
Speaker- Tom Arnone, Monmouth County Commissioner, Director - Made in Monmouth & Monmouth County Economic Development
Highlights: The Commission consisting of 5 members serves 53 towns.
*Budget expenses reduced from $493 million in 2021 to $473 million in 2022.
*. Care centers, bridges & landfill projects were privatized.
* To cut costs services are shared with municipalities.
*AAA Bond Rating
*Monmouth County received $108 million from the Federal government during the pandemic.
* $10,000 grants were awarded to small businesses serving the arts, special needs, veterans affairs and animal welfare.
*In early summer events for Made in Monmouth & Grown in Monmouth will be held at Brookdale College.
President Mike Schwartzstein thanked the speaker for his efforts and presented him with the Rotary Cup.
The next meeting will be on Friday, April 28 @ 12:15 @ Rooney’s
President-elect Paul Newell thanking Mayor John Pallone for his presentation.
Our Dinner at Rooney's on Thursday, 4/14 was a big success with over 42 people in attendance. Mayor John Pallone gave a very informative presentation on the state of the city.
The food was delicious and the service excellent. Thanks again to Darrell and the staff.
Edward Thomas (L), president of the local chapter of the Association of the United States Army, spoke at the club's Friday lunch meeting. The program serves over 150,000 military veterans and their families. Among the many humanitarian programs are Fisher House, supporting ROTC scholarships, supplying and training service dogs for Vets, and student science scholarships.
Guest speaker Gary Oliveri gave a very informative presentation on the history of the Red Cross, internationally and nationally. He also covered many of their programs including blood services, emergency preparedness education, home fire campaign, Holidays for Heroes, Military and Veteran Caregiver Network, CPR and first aid training, disaster relief, and international humanitarian services to name just a few.
Become a Red Cross Volunteer. As a volunteer you can help your community prepare for and respond to emergencies, deliver hope and comfort, meet new people --all while making a huge, positive impact on the lives of those who need it most.
New members Cori Socher, local attorney, and Carl Jennings, Director of Long Branch Recreation & Human Services, being inducted into the club by President Mike Schwartzstein.
President Mike Schwartzstein presenting check for $1,000 to Long Branch School Superintendent Francisco Rodriguez for special needs program MCI (moderate cognitive impairment) Room in honor of Roger and Karen Hansen. Mr. Rodriguez along with Jennifer Steffich, Special Ed Supervisor (far left) and Dr. Janet Dudick, Assistant Superintendent of Schools gave a very informative presentation on the Special Ed program in the Long Branch Public Schools.
New member Tasha Youngblood Brown is being inducted into the Club by Pres. Michael Schwartzstein. Standing proudly by is her father-in-law and sponsor Dave Brown.
President Mike thanks guest speakers Tasha Gordon Brown and Valerie Brett from Impact 100 Jersey Coast.
The organization is made up of women of different ages and backgrounds who combine their charitable dollars, experience and energy to make a tangible difference in our area. Impact Jersey Coast is part of a growing international movement that empowers
women to fund transformational changes in our local communities.
Their goal is to create a forum to raise awareness of our community's most pressing needs and fund transformational grants for high-impact projects addressing those needs.
For more information please visit www.impact100jerseycoast.org
3/11/22 - Anna Burian, Interim Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Central and Northern NJ, receives Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch donation of $4,700 from club president Mike Schwartzstein for a much needed technology upgrade.
Ann Burian speaks about Ronald McDonald House to Rotarians at their weekly lunch meeting at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant.
Club President Mike Schwartzstein (R) thanks Sargeant Kim Leavy and Lieutenant Brendan Cahill for their very informative presentation on the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office SAFE PLACE PROGRAM.
The SAFE PLACE PROGRAM is a law enforcement-sponsored concept that enhances public education regarding the reporting of bias incidents and hate crimes. The program is an active collaboration between the police, business, social organizations and schools, designed to assist in making communities a safer place to live. Any individual who sees the SAFE PLACE logo will know that business, organization, or location will provide a safe place for someone to call 911 for assistance, should they feel unsafe.
This program is for All bias incidents or hate crimes targeting an individual for reasons that can include, but are not limited to: race, color, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, national origin, or ethnicity.
Individuals requiring assistance will be treated with care, dignity, and respect from participating businesses, organizations, schools, and from responding police departments. MCPO SAFE PLACE is not designed for residential use.
For more information: Please go to MCPONJ.ORG or send an inquiry at SafePlace@mcponj.org
Club President Michael Schwartzstein (right) thanks Shore House Executive Director, Richard Ambrosino and Bailey Taft for their presentation.
The Club met back at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant for the first time in two years with a presentation from Shore House. They are a community in Monmouth County that provides recovery support for people living with mental illness. Shore House adheres to the Clubhouse model of psychological rehabilitation, and is the first and only accredited Clubhouse in New Jersey. Visit ShoreHouseNJ.org.
The turnout was great with a beautiful view and great company.
Santa and some of his elves checking out some of the gifts
Over the past 2 years during the Covid-19 Pandemic the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch with the help of some local businesses and residents has donated over $30,000 to local food pantries helping to feed families in need.
This holiday season the club started Jingle Bell Buddies, headed up by Terry Janeczyk, to bring the joy of Christmas to 5 local families. The Long Branch School System supplied the names of the families who were then asked to fill out wish lists which the club did everything possible to make come true. In addition, they were supplied with groceries to help get them through the holidays.
The look of surprise and the smiles on the children’s faces when they saw Santa, club member Gordon Heggie, and the look of joy from the parents was well worth the effort put into the project.
There was a team of 4 elves assigned to shop for and help Santa deliver the packages to each of the five families. Members involved could not stop talking about the joy they felt in helping these families have a wonderful Christmas. A feeling of hope during these trying times seemed common among all involved.
The project was such a success that the number of families will be increased to ten next Christmas. The support of club members and others in the community was instrumental in this success.
If you would like to help next year please contact Terry at taj4@aol.com and you will receive information next fall.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch held their annual Holiday Party at Mar Belo Restaurant and it was a great success. The club was presented with a proclamation by the City of Long Branch for it's work in the community. Mayor Pallone, Councilpersons Dr. Anita Voogt and Bill Dangler did the presentation.
The Club was presented with a check for $1,000 by Frank Crupi from the Long Branch Wave of Hope for Rotary's holiday project, Jingle Bell Buddies. The club will be giving gifts and food to five local families in need to make their Christmas a special one.
Club Treasurer, Judy Syms, was presented with her third Paul Harris designation for her generosity to the Rotary International Foundation helping people around the globe.
In addition to all our wonderful guests the club would like to thank West Long Branch Mayor Janet Tucci for joining us in the festivities with her husband and club member Lex Tucci.
Club President Mike Schwartzstein gave an overview of the club's activities, past present, and future.
At the end of the evening several guests expressed interest in joining the club.
Once again the food was delicious and the service excellent at Mar Belo's.
Sylvia (third from right) of Sylvia's Children and Rotarians from Long Branch work together on 50/50 raffle at Wall Speedway to raise money for their organizations.
It was a very successful night with the winner receiving over $1,600. We all had a great time and the staff at the track couldn't have been friendlier.
Sylvia's Children and RCGLB team up at Wall Speedway
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch held a car wash on Saturday, 9/25 to benefit "Single Parents With MS" founded by Darrell Wordelman, co-owner of Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant. The students, volunteers from Long Branch Middle School and High School, were conscientious, friendly and very polite. They made the event the success that it was.
Great night at Mar Belo Restaurant. Our first monthly night meeting in a long time. Club President, Mike Schwartzstein (rt) thanked our guest speaker, Brian Thompson, NBC News 4 for a very informative and entertaining presentation followed by a lively question and answer session. The food and service was excellent as usual. It was a fun evening with friends a long time coming.
(L-R) Nick Greenwood, Vice Principal; Jessica Alonzo, Principal; Rotarians: Terry Janeczyk, Ken Gittell, Judy Syms, Club President Michael Schwartzstein,
Gordon Heggie, and Dave Brown
2nd from left, Lauren Sweet, Student Advisor with Long Branch Rotarians
Third from left, Twana Richardson, Student Advisor and 5th from left School Secretary Nijah Pizzaro receiving school bags with supplies from Long Branch Rotarians
On Friday July 30th local volunteers met at Rotarian Terry Janeczyk's home to fill backpacks with school supplies for local elementary school students. The backpacks were distributed on Thursday, August 5th to Amerigo A. Anastasia Elementary School, George L. Catrambone Elementary School, and Gregory Elementary school.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Want to attend? The club meets Fridays at Zachary’s Restaurant at 12:00pm. Please give us a call before coming at (732) 483-6973 to make a reservation. Pay $25 lunch fee at the meeting. For more information visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org
Long Branch Rotary members turned out to clean up the area on Market Pl. by Stop and Shop (near RR tracks). The clean-up was made possible by Anthony Morrell, Monmouth County Clean Communities Coordinator. The club cleans this area a couple of times a year due to the accumulation of litter. Rotary members have also cleaned the area around the train station and have participated in the beach clean-ups.
(L-R) 2021-2022 President Michael Schwartzstein, Past President Paul Peacock, and Past President Fatima Camacho.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch recently installed Michael Schwartzstein as their 2021-2022 club president at their weekly lunch meeting at Zachary's Restaurant. It was a tough covid year but the club did well and continued to serve the community by raising over $26,000 to help support local food pantries. It is great to be meeting in person once again. We're looking forward to a much more active year.
The club also presented a check for $1,000 to The Arc, Work Opportunity Center in Long Branch. (Left to right) Linda Porter, Director; receiving check is Marshall Queen, President of Self Advocacy; Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President Fatima Camacho; RCGLB Past President Gordon Heggie; Michael Mirasola, Assist. Director; and Theresa Valentine, Director of Development.
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. For more information www.thearc.org.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Want to attend one of our lunch meetings? Simply give us a call at (732) 483-6973 to make a reservation. For more information visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Presents Check to The Arc
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President Fatima Camacho presents check for $950 to Reverend Leslie Devereaux of the Trinity AME Church for their food pantry.
According to an October article by NJ Spotlight News "Pandemic in NJ forces 1.2 Million to become "food insecure", report says the number surges by 56% this year, higher than national rate due to hard-hit hospitality and leisure industries. For children, the projected increase is even bigger, at 75%, bringing the total to 365,000, the report said. The new projected rate of food insecurity exceeds the 12.3% seen at the depth of the Great Recession of 2007-2009.
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch (RCGLB) raised $5,700 in the month of November. They received $1,000 from Investors Bank, $2,500 from a Rotary District Grant, $1,000 donation from Sylvia Allen, and $1,200 from club members. As a result, $950 each was donated in December to pantries at Christ the King Parish, St. Michaels Church, The Lutheran Church, Reformation, Trinity AME Church and St. Lukes Church. Since March RCGLB has raised and donated approximately $20,000 to local food pantries.
Please donate as much as you are able. No one should go hungry in this country, especially children. The need to continue helping our community is urgent. The money raised will be distributed to local food pantries in a check so they can purchase supplies needed the most. There is light at the end of this long tunnel.
Credit cards are preferred, checks accepted. Send checks to Long Branch Rotary Club, P.O. Box 3094, Long Branch, NJ 07740. If you are making a donation of over $100 by credit card or have a problem using the website please call Ken Gittell at (732) 539-3077.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Want to attend one of our Zoom meetings? Simply give us a call at (732) 483-6973 to make a reservation. For more information visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org
Saturday, 10/10/20 - Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch (RCGLB) in coordination with Will Johnson of Monmouth County Clean Communities helps keep Long Branch clean by clearing Market Pl. (by Stop & Shop) of garbage.
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch (RCGLB) Past Presidents’ Gordon Heggie (center) and Luciana Silva presented Tarcisio Ferreira, owner of the Brazilian Market in West End, with a RCGLB Certificate of Appreciation. The certificate was for supporting the RCGLB’s international fundraiser with a donation to help the Breast Cancer Clinic in Sao Gotardo, Brasil.
In addition, with the help of Investors Bank’s generous donations, RCGLB has donated over $12,000 to local food pantries in the last 7 months during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Want to attend one of our Zoom meetings? Simply give us a call at (732) 483-6973 to make a reservation. For more information visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org
Local Businessman Receives Certificate of Appreciation
RCGLB (Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch) President, Gordon Heggie presents $890. check to St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry staff and volunteers at Christ the King Parish.
For our second food drive fundraiser the club donated $890. each to three local pantries in May: St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at Christ the King Parish, Lutheran Church – Reformation, and St. Brigid’s Food Pantry at St. James Episcopal Church.
Help is provided to over 750 local families per week through just these three pantries. The pantries are helped by Fulfill (Monmouth County Food Bank), Jersey Cares, Common Market, monetary and food donations by individuals and corporations.
During the Covid-19 Pandemic the need has grown dramatically and will continue for the foreseeable future. Please do what you can to support your local food pantry. No parent wants to worry about their children going to bed hungry.
Mr. Dominique Perez, Program Supervisor at St. Bridgid's Pantry & Kitchen receives donation from RCGLB President G. Heggie.
RCGLB President Gordon Heggie presents donation to Debbie Keszler, Food Pantry Director at Lutheran Church - Reformation
Food pick-up at Lutheran Church - Reformation food pantry
Medical Staff in the Pulmonary Unit at Monmouth Medical Center thank Rotary for lunch from Scala's Pizzeria. We can't thank them enough for the the work they do helping our families, friends and neighbors survive this crisis. They put their own health on the line. The Ultimate in Service Above Self.
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch held it’s Carnivale 2020 fundraiser this past Saturday night, 3/7/20, at Branches. A great time was had by all. The food was delicious and the company was great. Dancing to the irresistible beat of the New York Samba Band along with traditional Brazilian dancers in their Carnival costumes was a real treat.
The beneficiaries of the event were:
Sylvia’s Children, changing Uganda One Child At A Time!
Uganda… 1.5 million orphans Uganda… 95% of the population does not have electricity Uganda… more than half of the population lives on less than $2 a day Uganda… 95% of the population does not have water Uganda… only 20% of the male children go past 7th grade Uganda… only 17% of the female children go past 7th grade
Sylvia’s Children is trying to address these problems, starting with education. As the adopted grandmother to over 1,000 children at the Mbiriizi Advanced Primary and Day Care School, Sylvia Allen has made a significant difference in the children’s lives and hopefully, give them enough education to have a better life than their ancestors.
For the last seventeen years they have made a difference in these children’s lives… providing a well so they don’t get sick, a library and books, additional classroom blocks, a nurse and health care services, the list goes on. Their goal is to make the school totally self-sustaining so we can take this model and apply it .
For more information go to sylviaschildren.com
The DEPCA Foundation:
Whose mission is to help people overcome cultural, legal, physical and financial barriers by offering support and guidance that will enable each applicant to broaden their horizons, live up to their full potential and reach their dreams while strengthening a sense of community.
For more information go to depca.org
Thank you to our sponsors without whose help this event would not have been possible:
Investors Bank
Monmouth University
Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home
Atlantic Security and Fire
Excel Travel
Artis Senior Living
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Want to attend? Simply give us a call at (732) 483-6973 to make a reservation or pay $20 lunch fee at the door. We meet Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant 12:15pm on Fridays. For more information visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org
For all photos of event click on Carnivale 2020 under photo albums on left side of page.
Former Mayor Adam Schdneider receives the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Community Service Award from President Gordon Heggie for his 28 years of service to the City of Long Branch.
On June 27th The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch held a dinner at Branches Catering to honor former Mayor Adam Schneider for his many years of service to the people of Long Branch. He was presented with the Club’s Community Service Award.
Many of Adam’s friends, Rotarians, and local politicians attended. Everyone enjoyed the good food, service, and music by Andy McDonough Trio.
Gordon Heggie was sworn in as the Club’s 2019-2020 Club President by Paul Peacock. Gordon is the first member to serve two terms as club president in the history of the club which is almost 100 years. In addition, Gordon received the Rotary International Paul Harris Award from Dr. David Pfaff, Club Foundation Chair in appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world.
Dr. David Pfaff received his fourth Paul Harris Award at the dinner.
The 2019-2020 Board of Directors was recognized and are as follows:
Gordon Heggie, Ken Gittell, Mika Hon, Paul Peacock, Dr. David Pfaff, Luciana Silva, Judy Syms, and Walter Thistlewaite.
For more information about Rotary call (732) 483-6973 or visit our website www.longbranchrotary.org.
President-Elect Gordon Heggie thanks Ken Womack for an excellent presentation.
Kenneth Womack is a world-renowned authority on the Beatles and their enduring cultural influence. His latest book project involves a two-volume, full-length biography devoted to famed Beatles producer Sir George Martin. The first book in the series is entitled Maximum Volume:The Life of Beatles Producer George Martin (The Early Years, 1926-1966). The second volume, Sound Pictures:The Life of Beatles Producer George Martin (The Later Years, 1966-2016), was published in September 2018.
Ken’s Beatles-related books include Long and Winding Roads: The Evolving Artistry of the Beatles (2007) and The Cambridge Companion to the Beatles (2009), which was named as The Independent’s “Music Book of the Year.” In 2014, Ken published The Beatles Encyclopedia: Everything Fab Four in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the group’s legendary appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. Ken’s books about the Beatles are included in the permanent collection of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Library and Archives. Ken is also the author of four novels, includingJohn Doe No. 2 and the Dreamland Motel (2010), The Restaurant at the End of the World (2012), Playing the Angel (2013), and I Am Lemonade Lucy! (2019). His essays and reviews have appeared in Salon, Slate, Time, Variety, The Guardian, The Independent, and The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Ken is Dean of the Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Monmouth University, where he also serves as Professor of English. He is Editor of Interdisciplinary Literary Studies: A Journal of Criticism and Theory, published by Penn State University Press, and Co-Editor of the English Association’s prodigious Year’s Work in English Studies, published by Oxford University Press.
Over the years, Ken’s work as teacher and writer has earned numerous awards, including the Grace D. Long Faculty Excellence Award (2002), Penn State University’s Alumni Teaching Fellow Award (2006), Northern Illinois University’s Golden Anniversary Alumni Award (2009), Penn State Altoona’s Honorary Alumni Award (2009), and the Kjell Meling Award for Distinction in the Arts and Humanities (2010). In 2013, Ken was selected to serve as the sixth Penn State University Laureate.
In addition to studying Russian language and literature at the Moscow Institute of Communication, Ken earned B.A. and M.A. degrees in English from Texas A&M University and a Ph.D. in English from Northern Illinois University. He lives in West Long Branch, New Jersey, with his wife Jeanine.
New Member Bill Sherman, after being inducted into the club by President Walt Thistlewaite, is receiving his Rotary pin from his sponsor President-Elect Gordon Heggie. Bill is the owner of the new Allstate Insurance office on Wall Street in West Long Branch.
Steve Briskey is being inducted into the club by President Walt Thistlewaite and past President Luciana Silva. Steve is a real estate agent with Gloria Nilson & Co. Real Estate in Spring Lake.
Club treasurer Judy Syms receives a Paul Harris award from from President Walt.
Guest speaker Paul Musho, owner of ChillRx Cryotherapy in Red Bank, demonstrates CryoFacial with club treasurer Judy Syms.
President Walt thanks Paul for his informative presentation on cryotherapy.
On April 4th Rotarians delivered food collected by students at Shore Regional HS to the newly expanded food pantry at the Lutheran Church - Reformation in West Long Branch.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President-elect Gordon Heggie presents guest speaker Sylvia Allen with a token of the club’s appreciation
In 2003, Sylvia Allen went on a humanitarian trip to Uganda, Africa. While she was there, she was asked by Geofrey Kawuma, head of the Mbirizi Primary School, to be the school’s Grandmother. With 1,000 children in the school, of which a third are orphans due to the AIDS crisis, she was honored to accept the responsibility. Out of this Sylvia’s Children was born, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of her ‘grandchildren’; to give the children a fighting chance. The organization helps to better the lives of the 1,005 children in the village, and in the process is setting up a self-sustainable economic system that will allow the school and the community to thrive. They now have a pig farm, 8,000 chickens so they can sell eggs, 500,000 coffee tree seedlings, 10,000 mango trees and 7 acres of land planted in corn, tomatoes and g-nuts (which helps offset the purchase of food costs).
They’ve built: a boys dormitory, an addition to the girls dormitory, a clean well for fresh water, three new double classroom blocks, a new library, a building for corn milling, a playground, a 10-unit teachers housing, a building housing 24 sewing machines and supplied: Money for a 6,000-square-foot medical clinic (currently being built), three new stoves, three new cooking pots to extend the ability to feed the children, desks for the new classrooms, medical supplies for the nurse, school supplies, multiple Christmas parties with gifts, American and Ugandan flags, new t-shirts and dresses for the children, 1,000+ pairs of shoes and socks, books for the library, computer and Internet service, solar lights for nighttime safety, 1,000 blankets – one for each child, new beds for the boys dormitory, new latrines, a chicken coop with 400 chickens to give the kids one egg per day. They’ve also: hired a school nurse, purchased eight acres of land adjacent to the school for corn, increased student population from 439 to over 1,000, increased support for orphans in primary and a secondary school.
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
For more information about the Rotary Club visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org or call (732) 483-6973.
Guest speaker Aaron Levine being thanked by club president Walt Thistlewaite
Rotarians Get A Lesson in Cyber Safety
Aaron Levine from LG Insurance Agency in Long Branch was recently a guest speaker at a Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch lunch meeting where he spoke about cyber safety, a subject of importance especially during the holidays.
Below are some tips to keep cyber safe:
Beware of Phishing Attacks – Online promotions via email, text or social media may look like a steal, but they could be a trap for fraudsters to do just that – steal your data and cash. Don’t click on links or attachments.
Go to Legitimate Websites – Be on high alert for clone websites. Go to official website of the retailer and look for the HTTPS and lock.
Avoid Third Part Apps – Use legitimate shopping apps by going to the official app stores. Look for bad reviews, spelling errors and don’t download apps from their parties that could be infected with malware.
Shop with Credit – When shopping online, use a credit card instead of a debit card. With a credit card it’s their money and 0 liability, with a debit card it’s your money. Opt for a virtual credit card for an added layer of protection, which uses a temporary credit card number.
Don’t Browse with Public WiFi – Avoid using public unsecured public WiFi, like at a café or airport kiosk, especially for sensitive transactions. Use a VPN or Virtual Private Network that creates a safe and encrypted connection that guards against hackers.
Don’t overshare on Social Media – Spreading cheer with family and friends online is great, but don’t give hackers a digital key to hijack your life.
Secure Your Mobile Device – Make sure your mobile device is secured with the most up to date anti-virus software and that you are using a PIN to lock your phone. Use long and strong passwords that don’t repeat across accounts and never save your user id and password. Use two factor authentication and biometrics where available.
Don’t Fall for Imposter Scams – If you get an unsolicited call, email or text from a bank, credit card provider or government agency, hang up and don’t respond. These organizations will NEVER ask for personal information. Only authenticate yourself when you are in control of the conversation.
Fake Gift Cards – To avoid gift card fraud, buy cards from behind the store counter, don’t use cards where the strip has been tampered with and avoid buying cards from third party retailers.
Check your credit – Check your accounts on a daily basis to look for any suspicious activity. Sign up for transaction monitoring alerts from your bank.
Manage the Damage – If you do become a victim of identity theft, manage the damage. Contact your insurance agent, financial institution or the HR department of your job to see if they offer cyber liability or an identity theft damage control program. You may be surprised to learn it’s a perk of your relationship with the company and you are already protected, or it may be free to enroll or you can enroll at a minimal cost.
Oceanport Mayor John "Jay" Coffey joined us for lunch and updated us on what's happening in Oceanport.
November 30, 2018 - Rotarians Get a Lesson in Cyber Safety
Long Branch Rotarians and LB Middle School teachers and students
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch has been collecting food for Thanksgiving & Christmas for those in need in our community for more than 35 years. Approximately 40 Million people live in food insecure households in the U.S. of which 6.5 million are children. Rotarians with the help of the Long Branch Middle School students and teachers have provided more than 112,000 meals for the holidays during that time. For many years West Long Branch Shoprite has supported our efforts with the opportunity for us to collect food in front of their store and with their generous donations.
The Club will be collecting again for the Christmas holidays on Saturday & Sunday, December 15th & 16th from 10am – 4pm outside Shoprite WLB. Please support the community and stop by to make a donation of food. Your dollars are also welcome.
Elsa Villalobos, Long Branch Mayor and Rotarian John Pallone, and John Jr.
Kelly Ortiz, LB Middle School
Long Branch Rotarian Judy Syms, Shoprite manager Mr. Armstrong, and Ray Syms
Rotarian Junior DaSilva, Laura Leonel and teacher Patti Grayson from LB Middle School
November 17 & 18/ 2018 Thanksgiving Food Drive
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President Walt Thistlewaite thanks guest speakers Reggie and Yvette Anderson, founders of MTN Organization. Meet the Need is a NJ based Non- Profit Organization whose primary goal is to meet the need of those less fortunate, who have fallen on hard times or temporarily need assistance. They support children, elderly, families, special needs, Veterans and individuals who are economically disadvantaged
Each year they host six projects of promise geared toward enriching the lives of others by offering a little hope and joy.
This year they will be adding MTN’s Pop Up Pantry to bring fresh fruits, vegetables, breads, salads, and grocery items for those in need to provide a healthier way of eating.
Coming soon is MTN’s Military Care Mission which will be sending troops care packages.
Other projects include Friends Feed Families which gives care packages to homeless in several NJ counties. Bears of Care consists of students visiting the elderly and veterans on Valentines Day to give homemade cards, stuffed animals and treats. Packs of Success offers students in shelter and in need packs filled with school supplies to give them the tools needed to have a successful school year.
There website is andersonsmeettheneed.org
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
For more information about the Rotary Club visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org or call (732) 483-6973.
Past President Paul Peacock (right) thanks guest speaker, author, David Salkin for an entertaining and informative presentation.
David M. Salkin is the author of eleven novels spanning military-espionage, crime, horror and science fiction—all with one common theme; they’re all edge-of-your-seat thrillers! David is a graduate of Rutgers University, with a degree in English. David is an elected official in Freehold Township, NJ where he served his community for twenty-one years as Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Township Committeeman and Police Commissioner. He is a Master Graduate Gemologist by trade. When not writing or working, David prefers to be under water scuba diving. David is also active with helping veterans and is an associate member of the Marine Corps League, Philip A. Reynolds Detachment.
President Walt inducting and welcoming new member Patrick McDevitt at our monthly night meeting at Mar Belo Restaurant. Patrick is a Long Branch resident and works for Morgan Stanley in Red Bank.
President Walt Thistlewaite (center) thanks guest speakers Jake Whelan and Jennifer Baillie for their presentations at the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch lunch meeting on October 12.
Jake Whelan, Broker/ Speaker /Consultant for Senior Moments Medicare specializes in Medicare solutions offering a wide range of options from many carriers to help you find the best fit. It is important to understand the choices you have in plans and how those choices can affect your health and budget.
Jennifer Baillie, CSA, is President of Next Stage Senior Guidance, a group of Certified Senior Advisors whose goal is to make the stages of aging as simple as possible for you or your loved one. They assist in all tasks of aging such as guidance in estate planning to navigating through different insurance plans, specializing in senior living placement. With so many senior living communities to choose from it is difficult knowing where to start.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President Walt Thistlewaite inducting new member Anita Voogt into the club. Anita is a Long Branch Councilwoman and Executive Director of Brookdale Community College.
Club President Walt Thistlewaite (left) thanks guest speaker Ryan Martinez, owner of Grape Beginnings/Hands-on Winery in Eatontown, NJ, for his very informative presentation on winemaking. Grape Begininnings provides a “hands-on” opportunity to learn the art and science of private label winemaking from start to finish (Grape-to-Bottle). Topping off the presentation was a special wine tasting treat that all enjoyed.
Ken & Walt deliver food to The Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church food pantry.
Ted and Joanna Friedli graciously hosted a late summer night Rotary meeting at their home. It was a beautiful evening, great company, food and drink in a vacation like setting. Who would've thought.
September 20, 2018 Night Meeting At Friedli Resort
President-elect Gordon Heggie thanks Tony Howley, State Grassroots Director of Americans for Prosperity for his presentation. He spoke about the organization's views and work on pension reform, reducing cronyism, occupational licensing reform, corporate welfare reform, criminal justice reform, protecting free speech, and cutting taxes & wasteful spending.
District Governor Bill Donnelly and AG Mika Hon present past president Luciana Silva with a "Be the Inspiration" banner in recognition of her presidency. Bill also spoke about the upcoming year in Rotary.
Victor Rodrigues (right), Branch Manager of Investors Bank on Broadway in Long Branch presents an Investors Foundation Grant check for $2,000 to Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch president Walter Thistlewaite.
Club president elect Gordon Heggie thanks guest speaker Robert Buob, Twin Lights District Executive for the Boy Scouts of America, Monmouth Council. Robert gave our members a great overview of the Boy Scouts.
Both Twin Lights and Council earned 2017’s Journey to Excellence Gold Award. They were recognized for membership growth, volunteer leadership, community service, and fund development. Twin Lights served 2,408 youth in 2017. The Council had a youth retention rate of 83%, one of the highest Council retention rates in the U.S. The Monmouth Council celebrated 100 years of service to the community.
Robert also spoke about the many programs provided: camping and outdoor education at the Scout reservations, summer camp, developing our youth, community service, training adult volunteers and youth, high adventure, annual national youth leadership training courses and many other innovative programs.
Members of the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Board of Directors presented Dr. David Stout, President of Brookdale Community College with a check for $8,000 for 16 $500 scholarships. 8 scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a career in the trades and 8 to students returning to school to further their education or pursue a new occupation.
Pictured above is Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch guest speaker Joelle Aponte from 180 Turning Lives Around being thanked by club president Luciana Silva. Since 1976, 180 Turning Lives Around has supported and empowered individuals and families in crisis. A private non-profit organization, 180 is the only state designated Monmouth County agency that provides comprehensive and compassionate services to those affected by domestic abuse.
For more information on 180’s programs and services please call one of the 24/7 toll-free hotlines.
Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-888-843-9262 Sexual Violence Hotline: 1-888-264-RAPE (7273)
Club president, Luciana Silva, presented our server, Patty, with flowers in appreciation of her excellent service throughout the year.
2018-2019 Board of Directors: (L-R) Pres. Elect Gordon Heggie, Club Secretary Ken Gittell, President Walter Thistlewaite, District Assist. Governor Mika Hon, Past Pres. Luciana Silva, Club Membership Co-trainer & District Secretary Paul Peacock, and Treasurer Judy Syms (not in photo)
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch held it’s annual President and officer installation dinner Saturday, 6/23 at Rodeio Grill on Oceanport Ave. The 2018-2019 board of directors are: President Walter Thistlewaite, president-elect Gordon Heggie, secretary Ken Gittell, treasurer Judy Syms, past president Luciana Silva, new member co-trainer Paul Peacock, and service projects chair Mika Hon.
2017-2018 President Luciana Silva had a great year. Some of the highlights are: food drives for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays that fed over 300 families each, food collection for local pantries, assisted Kick Cancer Overboard at the NJ Marathon to raise money to help cancer victims and their families, raised money to help Long Branch Citizen’s Police Academy, worked together with the BR Help Center on a Garage Free that helped 80 families, raised money and packed meals for Rise Against Hunger to feed people in disaster areas of the world, held a dinner for the LB Department of Public Works to honor employees contribution to Long Branch, awarded two $3,000 scholarships to Long Branch HS and Shore Regional HS students, donated and helped plant 20 maple trees and 10 azalea bushes to Long Branch, awarded $8,000 in scholarships to Brookdale Community College (8 $500 scholarships each for trade school and students returning to further their education).
The club is looking forward to another great year of service to our community.
The club invites you to attend our next meeting, which will be held Friday, June 29 at noon at Rooney’s in Long Branch. The speaker will be Joelle Aponte from 180 Turning Lives Around, dedicated to ending domestic and sexual violence in our community.
Want to attend? Simply give us a call at (641) 715-3900 Ext #716992 to make a reservation or pay $20 lunch fee at the door. For more information visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch is about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self”. In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you’ll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
On Friday 6/8 president Luciana Silva (center) of the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch presented $3,000 scholarships to Long Branch HS senior Jordana Friedli (left) and Shore Regional HS senior Amanda Halper (right). The club has been awarding scholarships to Long Branch and Shore Regional HS students for over 20 years.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President Luciana Silva with guest speakers Andrea Phox and Susan Marco. They spoke about “Unity Tent”, a joint presentation by Shine: Women of Long Branch and West End Arts Center & NJ Rep.
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch and the BR Help Center held a Garage Free on Saturday, May 26th at 489 Broadway, Long Branch. Items were collected from the community and Rotary Club members to be given free to anyone in need. Items included men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, household items, furniture, toys, children’s books, etc. More than 80 local families were helped.
(L-R) Stephanie Gittell, Club President Luciana Silva, Ken Gittell, and Judy Syms
Club President Luciana Silva thanking guest speaker Timothy Zeiss, Executive Director Foundation & Alumni Affairs, Brookdale Community College. Tim spoke about the role of Brookdale in the community and it’s many programs in addition to academic including welding, nursing, cyber security, automotive, radiology, construction. Brookdale also has programs with local high schools where students can work on a two year degree.
Club President Luciana Silva thanking guest speaker Timothy Zeiss, Executive Director Foundation & Alumni Affairs, Brookdale Community College. Tim spoke about the role of Brookdale in the community and it’s many programs in addition to academic including welding, nursing, cyber security, automotive, radiology, construction. Brookdale also has programs with local high schools where students can work on a two year degree.
The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch welcomes Andrea Lane as a new member.
New member Andrea Lane being inducted into the club by Ted Friedli.
President Elect Walter Thistlewaite congratulates Andrea on her membership after reading our club's "Litany of Expectations" written by the late Reverend Al Acer.
May 17, 2018 Dinner Meeting at Mar Belo Restaurant
(foreground) Mike Armstrong and Lou DeLauro, Assistant Director of Public Works and (background) Bill Wood plant the azaleas the club donated in Martin Luther King Park. Thank you guys for coming out in the rain to get the plants in.
Rotarian Gordon Heggie (2nd from right) and Lou DeLauro, Assistant Director of Public Works (far right) and DPW crew.
Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch donated 20 maple trees and 10 azalea bushes to Long Branch to be planted in Branchport Park, Atlantic Ave Park, and Martin Luther King Park. Rotarians Gordon Heggie, Ken Gittell, Joe LaBracio, Michael Hayes, and Jack Kearns
helped the DPW plant the trees on Saturday, May 12th.
Guest Speaker Travis Rogers from the NJ Reentry Corporation of Monmouth County
The NJRC strives to develop a culture where people with histories of incarceration face no barriers to employment and are no more likely to be arrested than people who have not been incarcerated.
The NJRC is a professional job and training procurement agency with a sensitivity to the unique needs that returning citizens have in finding and retaining quality employment. The NJRC is evidence based, efficient, collaborative, apolitical, client focused, data driven, and its employees at all times comport themselves accordingly.
Club President Luciana Silva presenting Travis with a token of our appreciation for his informative presentation.
Long Branch Rotarians, Ken Gittell, Gordon Heggie, and club president Luciana Silva, delivering food to the Holy Trinity Church food pantry on May 2nd.
New club member, Susan Lepis (center) is inducted into the club by Mika Hon, District 7500 Assistant Governor and Club President Luciana Silva.
Guest speaker Long Branch Councilman and mayoral candidate John Pallone is thanked by club president Luciana Silva.
District 7500 Secretary and Long Branch club member, Paul Peacock, exchanging club banners with guests Gordon Shurtleff of the Torrey Pines Rotary Club and his wife Penny of the La Jolla Rotary Club, California.
President Luciana Silva thanking Mayor Adam Schneider for his presentation
Meeting started at 12:15pm
President Luciana Silva chaired the meeting
Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation
Sargent at Arms Jeremy Skillings greeted the guests at the door
President Luciana welcomed the guests: Mayor Adam Schneider, speaker; Arthur Shlossman, guest of Tom London; Jon Skiptunis, guest of Ken Gittell; Andrea Lane, guest of Ted Friedli
Announcements:
* Dues invoices have been sent out, please pay if you are outstanding.
* Sanitation Department Dinner in January, goal of raising $6,000 and we recently received a $1,400 donation from Buhler Ford.
* Still working on the logistics for the tree project that wilol cover 3 Long Branch parks. Actual planting will be most likely postponed until spring.
* Rise Against Hunger food packaging event will be 10/28 at Manasquan Fire House #2, 111 Parker Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736. Looking for volunteers and donations. http://events.stophungernow.org/district7500monmouthcounty2017. Just $29 can feed 100 or more people. Currently about $7,000 short of goal.
* Art Show 10/18 6-9pm at Branches Catering. Need to sell tickets. Have maxed out at 25 artists with many different mediums represented. Ad book sales ongoing and prices start at $30 for a business card size. Need baskets for the chanced auction. A donation of $60 will purchase a basket to be arranged by Terry6 with recognition to you. Wine, liquor, lottery tickets, etc are always appreciated.
Speaker: Long Branch Mayor Adam Schneider
* Broadway - no clear timeline but turnaround looks great
* Redevelopment Bond for Pier Village public space, have personal guarantee on $20 million. Will be three phases, 1. Residential, 2. Parking, 3. Retail.
* Paid parking in beach areas ends 9/30. Behind in beach badge revenue but the paid parking made up for the loss.
* Plan for a new building, 1 tower, 10 stories, plans were approved 6 years ago on Seaview. Looking for a partner or to flip it.
* Long Branch is compliant with affordable housing provisions, no new projects.
* Primary focus of redevelopment is west of Ocean Blvd.
* Beer Garden - project is underway, not sure on timeline for the completion but will not be anytime soon.
* Pier - still in the works. Depends on financial risk to the city. Can take on $70 million, not $200 million. Need structured, sustainable parking. Lookin to extend season and focus on 1. ferry service to NYC, 2. fishing, 3. retail.
* Great Lawn is hosting a lot of events.
* Lake Takanassee beachfront construction will be 6 single family and 9-10 townhouses.
September 8, 2017 Pres. Luciana thanks Officers Kim Leavy and Joe Graziano for speaking to the club about the Long Branch Police Department's Citizens Police Academy.
Meeting started at 12:15pm
President Luciana Silva chaired the meeting
Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation
Judy Syms welcomed the guests: speakers, LBPD Officers Kim Leavy and Joe Graziano, and Lisa Weiner, Conte's Car Wash
Announcements:
* Please pay your dues if you haven't already
* Gordon reported on the tree project. locations: Branchport, Martin Luther and Basketball Park on Atlantic Avenue.
* Currently at $2,700 towards Sanitation Department Dinner goal of $6,000
* Next night meeting will be 9/21 at Mar Belo restaurant, not meeting on 9/22
* Art Show - 22 artists so far. Mark your calendar for 10/18 at Branches
roger has ad form and need club members to sell ads in the ad book. Major source of revenue for the event. Ad prices start at $30 for a business
card size. Gift baskets need for Chance Auctiion. Easy items include wine, lotto tickets, liquor, re-gifting things you have and don't want. You can also
sponsor a basket with a $60 donation and Terry will shop for the items and give you credit.
* continuing to collect rice through next week and will be delivered after next week's meeting.
* Tunes for Texas at Ron's West End Pub 12-4pm on 9/9. Fundraiser with the Windmill, ARMS for Convoy of Hope. Hot dogs provided by the Windmill,
beverages, live music, 50/50, raffle items. donation items needed include: 5 gal buckets with lids, hygiene products, cleaning supplies, bleach, new
clothing items. Used clothing cannot be accepted.
* Lisa Weiner from Conte's Car Wash was presented with a plaque thanking Conte's for generously supporting the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch.
* Rise Against Hunger, food packing event 10/28 at Manasquan Fire House. Volunteers needed for set up, 1st shift, 2nd shift and clean up. A donation
of $29 equals 100 nutritious meals. Goal is to pack 33,000 meals.
Past President Gordon Heggie presents Lisa Weiner from Conte's Car Wash with a plaque thanking Conte's for generously supporting the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch.
Guest speakers: LBPD officers Kim Leavy and Joe Graziano
Citizens Police Academy will begin 5th class Tuesday, 10/17 at Brookdale's Long branch Campus, 6-8pm. Class is 8 weeks long with a goal of engaging Long branch residents with the police department. Interactive class with field trips to Fire HQ, active shooter demo, traffic stops and more. An alumni group of the class is working to raise funds for a bulletproof vest for K9 officer.
Barb Youchah welcomed the guests: speaker, Eric Carney, COO, RWJ Barnabas Health/Monmouth Medical Center
Announcements:
*Email went out with link to sign up/donate to Rise Against Hunger. Just .29 will feed a family of 6 a nutritious meal. Date is 10/28 at Manasquan Fire House #2.
*Art Show 10/18 at Branches. 10 artists confirmed so far, end goal is at least 15.
*Still collecting rice for Christ the King Church food pantry through August, the next meeting will be the last opportunity to donate.
*John Pallone was inducted by Gordon Heggie as the newest member of RCGLB. Welcome, John.
Speaker: Eric Carney
There are a lot of changes and re-working of the healthcare system to better serve patients. Stand alone services so patients don't have to utilize hospital location and will have specialization to better improve care. Monmouth Medical averages 5,000 births annually and is the top hospital in the state.
Continued focus on community outreach. Focusing on improving health before illness or chronic conditions take effect. Charity Care arm to assist patients in bill payment and financial issues.
Barb Youchah won the 50/50 . Not a happy camper after not picking the card that Paul told her to which was the Joker. The Progressive is still open for a winner.
President Barb presenting $3,000 scholarship check to Shannon Nutley
June 9, 2017
Meeting Started: 12:21pm
Walt Thistlewaite took notes
Pres. Barb Youchah chaired the meeting
The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Barb
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation
Pres. Barb welcomed the guests: scholarship recipient Shannon Nutley, her mother Pauline Nutley; guest speakers, Tina & Gabriel Simon from the “Escape Room”
Announcements:
-Town clean-up: Meet at Stop & Shop in West End at 9am. Will from Monmouth County Clean Communities will meet us there with all of the supplies.
-Food Drive through June. St. James Episcopal Church food pantry will be the recipient.
They can use toiletries: toothpaste, deodorant, shaving cream, soap, etc.. Food items for the kitchen: ice tea, lemonade mix, 7 ounce cups, hot sauce.
-New officer Installation dinner at Mar Belo’s 6pm on June 29th. More info to come.
-Dottie’s House fundraiser: Conte’s exterior carwash tickets to be sold for $4 each. Tickets will be available soon.
-RYLA will be 6/24-6/27 at Monmouth University.
-RI convention in Toronto Canada 6/23-6/27/2018
-Club met RI Foundation goals for the first time in several years.
Gabriel Simon from the Escape Room
Guest Speakers: Gabriel and Tina Simon from the “Escape Room” at 473 Broadway, Long Branch. Phone: 732-995-9004.
-Escape Rooms are the newest & hottest trend in live action immersion games. It’s becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Can you escape the room? You and your team have 60 minutes to solve the clues, riddles and puzzles and get the ultimate rush of the Escape Room. Work together to find your way out and Escape the Room.
Kim & Jeff Price being pinned by friend and sponsor David "Doc" Pfaff
Pledge: Al Peskoe
Invocation: Paul Peacock
Visiting Rotarians: Assistant Governor, Tom Price
Guests: Geri Leardi
Induction of Jeff and Kim Price into the club. Welcome, we are so glad to have you both as members.
Food Drive is back on through June. Donations will be accepted at weekly meetings
Last night Luciana and I attended Long Branch High School's scholarship awards dinner. Shannon Nutley was our recipient.What a wonderful, gracious and accomplished young lady. On 6/7 we will be the awarding Kofi Kwa at Shore Regional High School. The students and their families and counselors will be joining us at lunch on June 9th to receive their award checks. I look forward to seeing Shannon and her family again and I'm sure I will feel the same about Kofi.
Board Meeting 6/6 for Board Members. My last one as President!
6/10 Spring Clean Up with Monmouth County Clean Communities 9am-11am approximately at Stop and Shop location on West End Avenue. Closed toed shoes and weather appropriate clothes are all that are required. Bring friends, family, kids or anyone else that wants to be involved. *I have a sneaking suspicion there could be a Rotary gathering at Jack's afterward*
6/29 Changeover Dinner is Tentatively scheduled at Mar Belo on Broadway as we welcome Luciana as our new President. More information to come as soon as it's available. Please make every effort to attend and welcome Luciana.
Putting together a fundraiser at Ken's suggestion for Dottie's House serving abused women and children. We will partner with Conti's Car Wash and will be able to sell car wash tickets for $4.00 each at a cost of $1.00 to the club. Your participation is appreciated! Details to come.
DG David Forward has a new book out "A String of Pearls: Inspiring Stories of How Rotary Peace Fellows are Serving Humanity and Changing the World". All of the proceeds go to Rotary Foundation Peace Centers Program.
Gordon brought the cutest thank you letters from the two children we will be sending to Camp Moore this summer
Ted Friedli hilariously outlined his top ten complaints he has received over the years as a travel agent.
Announcements:
Asbury Park Rotary Beach Party will be 7/1
Anyone wanting bocce practice for the clambake and can handle a silly labradoodle, stop on by our house. We have enough for 3 at a time. I lost a bocce ball in the ocean a few years ago...oops!
Next meeting 6/9 where we will be awarding the scholarship checks to the students.
Respectfully Submitted,
Barb Youchah
Finally, Mika won the 50/50, the Joker is still wild (he was one card off) and eluded him for the Progressive. Pot is over $500!!!
Pres. Barb and speaker Jim McNamara, Lakewood Blue Claws
Date: 3.24.317
Started at 12:20pm at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant
Mika took the notes.
La Presidente Barb Youchah presided over the meeting.
Mika started the pledge of Allegiance followed by Paul Peacock giving the invocation.
Russell Anderson welcomed our guest Jim McNamara at the door. Jim was our keynote speaker.
Barb made some announcements:
•The book drive continues for Bridge of Books." We're collecting books in good condition suitable for 1-18 year olds and books on parenting.
• There is no meeting on April 14th (Good Friday)
• April 20th our meeting will be at Stumpy's Hatchet House in Eatontown, 6pm.
• There is no meeting April 21st
• April 22nd is a beach clean up for Clean Ocean Action. We meet in front of Sirena at 9am
• Our art show has been moved to Sept 21st
Jim McNamara spoke to us about the Lakewood Blueclaws upcoming season. Tim Tebow will be joining themwhich should draw some crowds. They plan on having live bands on Saturdays and offer tons of events and activities for the whole family throughout the park. More info at www.blueclaws.com
Darrell Wordelmann, General Manager at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant
Rotary Notes from 2.10.17 meeting
Rooneys Restaurant, Long Branch, NJ
Meeting called to order 12:20pm
Pledge of allegiance: Al Pescoe
Invocation Paul Peacock
Guests: Visiting Rotarian from Asbury Park, Past District Gov. Gary Siciliano
Announcements:
President Barb made the following announcements during the meeting:
District 7500 “Gift of Life Gala” to be held at Crystal Point Yacht Club, Point Pleasant; Date: 2.11.17; Tickets still available at time of meeting
Our Club Fireside chat is February 16th at Piancones Restaurant, upstairs
Tickets available at Club website; Deadline is 2.13.17 so Mika can turn in the headcount.
Lombardi Dinner is 3/16 at Sheraton Eatontown; Club is trying for a table of 10. Currently we have 7. Mika is looking for ads for the journal.
Members can and should list their businesses on the Rotary District 7500 Business Directory
Terry Janeczak. said that The Art Show will be April 20th at Sheraton in Eatontown. Beneficiary will be the Rugby School. She wants each club member to sell 6 tickets. More details to follow.
Terry also talked about her Rugby School/Footsteps Mentorship Program. She asked club members businesses or those who know business owners to provide mentorship for a special needs teen in her program.
Darryl’s gave us the lowdown on the new fanciful digs at Rooney’s.
The 50/50 was won by some unknown tall, dark, handsome, suave and debonair gentleman. Oh wait, that was last week…this week, Mike Ciavolino won the 50/50 of $32.00
Ted Panis regaled us all with Happy Dollars.
Penne Vodka was on the menu for the 56th consecutive week, shattering the Club record.
Welcome visitors: Julie Rowe, Niko Heinzman, Stephanie Gittell, Dan Herman, Ministry Development, Aslan Youth Ministries
Updates:
Lombardi Committee had first meeting – Mika handed out raffle tickets for everyone to sell. Lombardi dinner is March 16, 2017
Rotary Community Volunteer Recognition Awards dinner were 10/17 at La Bove Grand and the non-Rotarian member of the community recognized for embodying rotary’s motto of service above self. Karen Teu, Dustin and Marley Conover were honored. Mika and Barb attended on behalf of the club.
Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps are 9:00am on Saturday, October 22 in Pier Village. Sign up sheet.
Grant Management Webinars: 10/19 7pm Luciana, Judy and Jeremy all took it which should satisfy our minimum of 2 people per club taking it.
10/25, 28, 29, 30 Beauty and the Beach run for women benefits Aslan Youth Ministries and is in need of volunteers. Dan Herman is here today with us to speak a little bit about what Aslan does and about the race.
November 5th will be the Stop Hunger Now food packaging event at CVR. All volunteer slots have been filled. A donation of $29 will make 100 meals possible for children in orphanages. The donations will be given to orphanages that associated with a school. The county is running far behind the $5,825 needed to make the event happen. All donations count. Make a donation on-line here: events.stophungernow.org\eatontownnj
11/11 Thanks for Giving Dinner
11/12 Rotary Day at the UN
1/28 Asbury Park’s Polar Plunge – Would like if our club could send a team of volunteers to help them.
Mid-Year Assembly 1/30/17 and Vocational Service Awards and Pre-PETS the core points for the award are:
Aspire to high ethical standards in their occupation
Recognize the worthiness of all useful occupations
· Contribute their vocational talents to the problems and needs of society
Thank YOU so much to everyone that has contributed $26.50! Your response has been amazing and I am so proud! As District Governor David Forward is asking, each of Rotary’s 35,000 members are asked to give $26.50 to commemorate the first amount donated to the foundation a century ago. The proceeds of Project 2650 will go to Rotary Polio Plus. The club is asked to donate $536 and each member of our club is asked to contribute $26.50
Guest speaker: Dan Herman, Ministry Development, Aslan Youth Ministries
Aslan provides relationship-driven programs that impact and empower at-risk youth.
Aslan Youth Ministries is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Red Bank, New Jersey. For the past 41 years, we have provided community outreach programs to impoverished areas in Monmouth County. In 1996, Aslan also established an outreach in Ouanaminthe, Haiti, along the northeastern border of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
You may recognize the name Aslan as the central character in C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia series. We bring what Aslan, the lion, stands for – compassion, guidance and truth – to the children we serve in New Jersey and Haiti.
Aslan’s programs include one-on-one mentoring and tutoring, character development classes anchored in Christian values and principles, recreational activities, summer camps and cultural enrichment programs.
Through continual encouragement, Aslan helps children reach deeply within their hearts so they can learn to overcome the obstacles in their lives and, with God’s help, find the strength to endure and succeed.
Next Meeting October 28th at 12:00 Rooney’s Oceanfront Grill. The credit card swipe is in our hands you will be able to pay for lunch with a credit or debit card now!! Welcome to 2016 RCGLB!!
Don't let Mika do this all by himself. Let's give him a hand, sign up for the Beach clean-up on 10/22. Make him share the Bloody Marys' .
Meeting called to order 12:20pm
Pledge: Barb Youchah
Invocation: Paul Peacock
There is no speaker as today's meeting is a general assembly.
At the board meeting last week it was decided that the club would make a $1,000 scholarship donation to Madison Little. There is a 50% match from the district bringing the total to $1,500. Madison is currently doing post-graduate work at Oxford University to continue his work of serving underprivileged and underserved populations.
The club received a district grant of $1,500 to go to Rugby School. The club matches the district so the total donation is $3,000.
Next night meeting is October 22nd 6pm at Dive Coastal Bar 1072 Ocean Avenue in Sea Bright right across the street from the Municipal Lot. We will be in the side dining room and you are welcome to order off of the menu.
10/22 Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps 9:00am by Sirena in Pier Village. Usually takes about two hours and then there is a "post clean-up meeting" at Rooney's for Bloody Mary's and to keep Neil company.
Beauty and the Beach Run is looking for volunteers for the following times. If you can help out please let Barb know. We will pass around a sign-up sheet at the next meeting. An email was sent to Victoria at Shore Regional to see if the Interact Club wanted to get involved as well.
Friday, Oct. 28th at Road Runner Sports in Shrewsbury
Packet Pick-up/Registration from 3:30 pm-8 pm
Saturday, Oct. 29that Road Runner Sports in Shrewsbury
Packet Pick-up/Registration from 11:30 am-4 pm
Sunday, Oct. 30th in Long Branch
Packet Pick-up, from 6am - noon, at/near the Ocean Place Resort
Race Day Registration, from 6am - noon, at/near the Ocean Place Resort
Course Set-up/tear-down, from 6 am - noon, along the oceanfront
Course Management, from 8:30 am - 11 am, along the oceanfront
Water Stops (2) set-up/tear down, from 8 am - 11 am, along the oceanfront
10/29 Karen Hansen Memorial Oktoberfest Fundraiser to provide a scholarship to a special education student at Bahr's in Highlands. Contact Roger for more information.
On November 5th the club is participating in a food packing event for Stop Hunger now. Gordon is the project coordinator and the time slot most in need of volunteers is 11:30am to 1:30pm. Register on-line here. It takes just 29 cents to send a nutritious meal to a child in need. The district is about 40% of it's goal of $5,825. Your donation of $29.00 will feed 100 people. Donations can be made through the registration link.
12/8 Holiday Party!! Mar Belo on Broadway in Long Branch, mark your calendars and bring your spouse and/or those near and dear for some holiday fellowship and fun.
Paul Peacock is going to donate a shelter box to the victims of Hurricane Matthew in Haiti. If anyone else would like to donate, please let Paul know.
It's never too early to solicit Lombardi dinner sponsors and ad journal opportunities. A portion of the proceeds come back to the club so we can continue to do projects and make a difference.
We will be collecting macaroni and cheese and rice throughout the month of October for Holy Trinity Church. Just bring your donation to the meeting.
Pres. Barb Youchah presents Dave "Doc" Pfaff with a Paul Harris Award
9.30.16
12:15 Meeting Begins
Flag Salute: Al Peskoe
Invocation: Paul Peacock
Welcome visitors/Rotarians: Visitors Julie Rowe, John Rachinsky, and guest speaker Frank Farrell
Updates:
Lombardi Committee had first meeting – Mika handed out raffle tickets for everyone to sell. Lombardi dinner is March 16, 2017
Kick Cancer Overboard Golf Outing – Ted 10/9 with a1:00 tee time at Heron Glen Golf Course in Ringoes in honor of Linda Walker
Rotary Community Volunteer Recognition Awards dinner will be 10/17 at La Bove Grand non-Rotarian member of the community recognized for embodying rotary’s motto of service above self. Karen Teu, Dustin and Marley Conover will be honored. Anyone else wanting to attend, let Barb know and bring a check for $35 to the event.
Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps are 9:00am on Saturday, October 22 in Pier Village.
Grant Management Webinars: 10/19 7pm, 10/22 9am,11/9 7pm – Luciana, Judy and Barb will sit in on the webinar – 10/19. Anyone else interested in sitting in on it is welcome, it is very interesting.
November 5th will be the Stop Hunger Now food packaging event at CVR. Gordon passed around the shift sign-up sheet. Monmouth County Clubs need to provide 40-80 people per middle shift. Volunteer shifts are set up 730-9a (contact Ken Scaggs) 9-11a and 1130-130 and clean up 1:30-done. Even if you can’t volunteer, a donation of $29 will make 100 meals possible for children in orphanages. The donations will be given to orphanages that associated with a school. Research has shown (seem like common sense as well) that children learn better when hunger isn’t the first thing on their mind. If you sign up on the sheet, Gordon will register you on the website. If you want to register yourself and/or donate the website is events.stophungernow.org\eatontownnj
11/11 Thanks for Giving Dinner
11/12 Rotary Day at the UN
1/28 Asbury Park’s Polar Plunge – Would like if our club could send a team of volunteers to help them.
Mid-Year Assembly 1/30/17 and Vocational Service Awards and Pre-PETS the core points for the award are:
· Aspire to high ethical standards in their occupation
· Recognize the worthiness of all useful occupations
· Contribute their vocational talents to the problems and needs of society
Thank YOU so much to everyone that has contributes $26.50! Your response has been amazing and I am so proud! As District Governor David Forward is asking, each of Rotary’s 35,000 members are asked to give $26.50 to commemorate the first amount donated to the foundation a century ago. The proceeds of Project 2650 will go to Rotary Polio Plus. The club is asked to donate $536 and each member of our club is asked to contribute $26.50.
Pres. Barb thanks Frank Farrell, Custom Video Productions
Speaker: Frank Farrell, Custom Video Productions
in high school, Frank bought his own video production gear and started shooting weddings and other events. Eventually landed a job as the video guy at Bell Laboratories, he did a lot of freelance work for AT&T.
As the video thing started to snowball, He learned two valuable lessons.
First, he could never have a real job. So he created his own job, and Custom Video Productions (CVP) was born. That was back in 1978, when we recorded on film and edited with razor blades.
Second, it’s all about the story. Frank spoke and shared a video on how to best create videos using nothing more than a smartphone and a few inexpensive props. To see more of Frank’s work or to contact him directly, visit his website.
50/50 Winner: Mika Hon (2nd week in a row!)
Next Meeting October 7th at 12:00 Rooney’s Oceanfront Grill
President Barb & David Silverman, the Executive Chef/Owner of David’s Culinary Delights, Personal Chef/Catering Services
9.23.16
12:15 Meeting Begins
Flag Salute: Al Peskoe
Invocation: Paul Peacock
Welcome visitors/Rotarians: Visitors Erik Elfstrom, Mike Ciavolino, Jr and Visiting AG Tom Price from the Asbury Park Club
Updates:
Tom Price updated the club on what’s going on in the district which is basically covered below.
Thank you to Ken Gittell for taking all the great pictures at Beachwalk last Thursday evening. It was a wonderful night and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves. You can see the pictures on Facebook.
Lombardi Committee had first meeting – Mika handed out raffle tickets for everyone to sell. Lombardi dinner is March 16, 2017
Kick Cancer Overboard Golf Outing – Ted 10/9 with a 1:00 tee time at Heron Glen Golf Course in Ringoes in honor of Linda Walker
Rotary Community Volunteer Recognition Awards dinner will be 10/17 at La Bove Grand non-Rotarian member of the community recognized for embodying rotary’s motto of service above self. Send your nominations to Barb in an email ASAP as the deadline for submission is 9/30
Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps are 9:00am on Saturday, October 22 in Pier Village.
Grant Management Webinars: 10/19 7pm, 10/22 9am, 11/9 7pm – Luciana, Judy and Barb will pick a date and sit in on the webinar binaryher.
November 5th will be the Stop Hunger Now food packaging event at CVR. Gordon passed around the shift sign up sheet. Monmouth County Clubs need to provide 40-80 people per middle shift. Volunteer shifts are set up 730-9a (contact Ken Scaggs) 9-11a and 1130-130 and clean up 1:30-done. Even if you can’t volunteer, a donation of $29 will make 100 meals possible for children in orphanages. The donations will be given to orphanages that associated with a school. Research has shown (seem like common sense as well) that children learn better when hunger isn’t the first thing on their mind. If you sign up on the sheet, Gordon will register you on the website. If you want to register yourself and/or donate the website is events.stophungernow.org\eatontownnj
11/11 Thanks for Giving Dinner
11/12 Rotary Day at the UN
1/28 Asbury Park’s Polar Plunge – Would like if our club could send a team of volunteers to help them.
Mid-Year Assembly 1/30/17 and Vocational Service Awards and Pre-PETS
Aspire to high ethical standards in their occupation
Recognize the worthiness of all useful occupations
Contribute their vocational talents to the problems and needs of society
Thank YOU so much to everyone that brought a check for $26.50 today! Your response was amazing and I am so proud! As District Governor David Forward is asking, each of Rotary’s 35,000 members are asked to give $26.50 to commemorate the first amount donated to the foundation a century ago. The proceeds ofProject 2650 will go to Rotary Polio Plus. The club is asked to donate $536 and each member of our club is asked to contribute $26.50
Foundation Goal: $3500 currently at $600, Polio Plus Goal: $1,967 currently $TBA from today’s awesome donors!
Speaker: David Silverman, the Executive Chef/Owner of David’s Culinary Delights, Personal Chef/Catering Services. He holds an Associates Degree from The Culinary Institute of America and a Bachelors Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University, in Hospitality Management. In addition to having over 35 years of professional hospitality experience. He has opened new country clubs, hotels and restaurants. Worked in Casinos, had his own restaurant and has been partners in others.Now he is working for you. Purchasing fresh ingredients daily, bringing them to your home and preparing meals for you, your friends and family.
50/50: Mika Hon
Immediately following the meeting Ken Gittell, Gordon Heggie, Luciana Silva, Judy Syms, Victor Rodrigues and Barb Youchah collected 10 bags of food donated at Victor’s Investors Bank location on Broadway. Supplies were delivered to Holy Trinity Church and they offered much appreciation. When asked what was needed, the response was macaroni and cheese as well as rice. Gordon is planning to send a separate email-we doubted you’d read this far.
Next Meeting September 30th at 12:00 Rooney’s Oceanfront Grill
Rotarians delivering food to Holy Trinity food pantry
RCGLB Pres. Barb Youchah & Red Bank Rotary Pres. Ken Scaggs
Night Meeting 9.15.16
Welcome to our guests: Stephanie Gittell, Ana Heggie, Nicholas Heinzman, Annie and Lainie, Julie Rowe and visiting Rotarian from Red Bank, Ken Scaggs
Updates:
Polio Plus: The district is asking that each member donates $26.50. There will hopefully be a link on our website soon and we will also accept checks. Donations are needed by October 15th.
Foundation: We are donating $1,000 to the district water project led by David Legg in Nairobi. Depositing $747.42 from the clambake proceeds.
Dues: Invoices went out, please make Ken's job easier by paying them so he's not chasing anyone around.
Food Drive: Will be at Shop Rite in West Long Branch 11/19 &20 and 12/10 &11
Food Donation Boxes: At Kearney Bank and Investors, Luciana will pick up food and deliver to Holy Trinity Church.
Stop Hunger Now: November 5th is the food packing event. Need as many volunteers as we can get from 9a-11a and again 1130a-130p. Anyone 4 and up can come help and don't have to be Rotarians. Sign up link is here. Our club is donating funds but we also need more to purchase the food. Donations can be made on the link above. Gordon and Barb will be attending a meeting on the 21st and will have more info then.
Rotary Leadership Institute: 10/8 at Cumberland County College in Vineland. Is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Rotary especially for incoming leaders.
Ken Scaggs from Red Bank gave a quick overview of the Monmouth County Rotary Evening Club. There will be an introductory meeting next Thursday, September 22nd. From there out, the club will meet the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Any questions can be sent to mcercnj@gmail.com. The brochure is attached.
Thank you to everyone who attended it was a beautiful night to be on the water. I appreciate all of your fellowship.
Tom Price presenting check to President Mike Ciavolino from Lombardi Dinner.
Notes By: MC Hon
Meeting Facilitated by: Mr Michael Ciavolino
Pledge: Dr. Dave Pfaff
Invocation: Paul "Toilet Seat" Peacock
Chevy started out with lunch choices and welcoming our guests:
Michael and Madeline MacStudy
Johanis Bonille
Peter Cunha
Tom London
Dave Walsh
Suzanna Hot
AG Tom Price
and guest speaker Tracey Wolfman
Chevy gave an update on how the Challenger League has been doing, Tom Price gave us a low down on what The Lombardi Annual Awards Dinner is about and presented us with a check for $1,439.40 and stressed that we all need to find sponsors for the event. CVR is having a golf outing June 21st. Chevy awarded Madeline and Johanis their $3,000 scholarship checks. Both young ladies will be studying in the field of medicine.
Our guest speaker Tracey did a presentation on "We Care Adult Care, Inc." They provide a quality of life to all seniors with the best of health, social and support services. Half the price of home care.
Ted Panis did happy dollars
Jeremy Skillings won the 50/50
Meeting adjourned at 1:33pm, Roger left at 4:33.
Congratulations Johanis and Madeline! the 2016 Rotary Club of greater Long Branch Scholarship recipients Johanis Bonilla from Long Branch High and Madeline MacStudy of Shore Regional accept their $3,000 awards.
Jeremy Skillings, CEO of “You Can Be Found” accepts the thanks of Club President Brian Berry.
Rotary Round Up
By Mike Ciavolino
The Rotary Club Annual Art Show set for April 23rd
Planning for the 2015 Rotary Club Art Show is well under way. Once again supporting the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund, this year’s show will be held at the Eatontown Sheraton. The show will feature more than 20 area artists displaying their wares for sale, food and refreshments. The scholarship dollars are awarded annually to local students looking to pursue a career in special education.
Please come out and support this worthy cause. Tickets are only $45. For information, contact Art Show Committee Chair Terry Janeczek at taj4@aol.com.
Tom Farrell is finishing his second year as the shared services Regional Superintendent of Schools for the Shore Regional High School, West Long Branch, and Oceanport School Districts. He previously spent eleven years in the Plumsted Township School District, having spent his first three years as a business education teacher in New Egypt High School, three years as the Assistant Principal of New Egypt Middle School, and the last five years as the Principal of New Egypt High School. During the 2006-2007 school year, he also served in the capacity of Director of Technology & Communications for the district. He served as the high school head football coach for seven years. Mr. Farrell serves as an adjunct professor of business for Ocean County College, where he teaches Principles of Marketing, Introduction to Business Administration, and Macro-Economics. Prior to Plumsted, Mr. Farrell was an Assistant Athletic Director, Business Education Teacher, and coach at Monsignor Donovan High School in Toms River, New Jersey. He has coached at the college level and brings a wealth of practical business experience from his years in the corporate world. Mr. Farrell has matriculated in a doctor of education program in organizational leadership at Creighton University. He has earned an M.B.A. from Monmouth University and a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University.
Tom and his wife of twenty-three years, Linda, have three children, Tommy Jr. (20), Brianna Rose (17), and Connor Lee (11). They reside in Toms River, New Jersey.
Lost on the Internet? Jemery Skillings can help you be found.
While most businesses have a website, not all of them have an effective presence on the web. Being discoverable on the majot search engines for your company’s products and services is the Foundation of any good marketing plan. On Friday, the club heard an informative presentation from Jeremy Skillings, SEO (Search Engine Optimization) expert and CEO of You Can Be Found. As an A+ BBB business and Google Certified Partner, You Can Be Found has been providing search engine marketing services successfully for businesses since 2006. We can cater plans to fit most any budget, with a focus on programs to help small and mid-sized businesses. For more information on simple things you can do to help your Google rankings, visit them online at www.youcanbefound.com
Please Join Us For Our Next Meeting
The Club invites you to attend our next meeting, which will be held Friday, February 27th at 12 noon at Rooney’s in Long Branch. The speaker will be Jim McNamara of the Lakewood Blue Claws.
Want to attend? Simply give us a call at (641) 715-3900 Ext #716992 to make a reservation or pay $20 lunch fee at the door. For more information, visit us at www.longbranchrotary.org
Wondering what Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Long Branch is all about? Rotary’s 1.2 million members worldwide believe that helping to change the world starts with a personal commitment to “Service Above Self.” In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you'll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Barb Youchah installed as new Club VP. by Lex Tucci
New Member Frank Crupi being inducted into the Club
Diane Rotandelli - Presented Lombardi check to the Club for $1069.00
Mike Ciavolino spoke about upcoming Rotary meeting at Fort Monmouth on October 22nd. A breakfast meeting which FREMA staff will discuss plans for the Fort. And Attendees can network and listen to presentations from current Fort Tenants, AcuteCare Health, Commvault Systems and Keily Construction.
Sea Bright Mayor Dina Long being thanked by club Pres. Brian Berry
Mayor Long was first elected to borough council in 2003, reelected in 2007 and again in 2009. Became Mayor in Jan 2012. She had big plans until Sandy hit in October 2012.
She mentioned that everyone in Sea Bright worked together to get thru it.
Sea Bright was a disaster area with natural gas leaks, cabanas as projectiles, and debris everywhere.
Gas company told them six months without natural gas possibly.
Chris Wood started an organization called “Sea Bright Rising” He started by feeding the First Responders, the Fire Fighters and the Utility Workers.
Biggest problem was that most of the homes were not up to code in town.
Now, the prevention of future storm damage is the town’s number 1 priority and they are finding out that the cost of rebuilding a fully built out town is extraordinary.
Mayor Long has been appointed to the White House Flood Planning Task Force.
Through Grants and Gifts they have been able to rebuild the dunes and the downtown.
A new hotel, and a revitalized Donavans Reef and Rum Runner are being planned.
Past President Mika Hon presenting check to Joyce DeJohn for the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund
Pledge: Al
Prayer: Len
Guests: Tom Gilmour, Tom Price Asbury Club
Harriet Primack, District Gov. (Red Bank Club); also speaker for the meeting
Other guests:
Joan Lagno, Guest of Terri
Joyce DeJohnn, Karen Hansen Memorial Fund Check Recipient
Chuck Gordon, Monmouth U., guest of Paul D., administrator of Hansen Fund
Notes:
The Club received a net total of $1000 from the Lombardi Awards Dinner
Club Secretary Ken G. spoke about the importance of consistent meeting attendance
Brian shared a news article with the club regarding Will Johnson, who will provide clean up equipment for any clean up projects the club wants to embark upon
Brian talked about the formation of committees and advance planning of Club events. (Membership Committee, Pr/Marketing Committee, Art Show, Clambake, Changeover Dinner, etc)
A New Rotary Sign was created and will be placed at Rooney’s with a card holder that holds the “What is Rotary” cards. (Ken)
The total proceeds for the Karen Hansen fund is $2600.00
Speaker: Dist. Gov. Primack
Thanked the Club for all our efforts at community outreach
Her role is as a conduit between R.I. and the clubs
She is here to help our club reach its goals
This year’s theme is “Light Up Rotary” - coined by RI President Gary Wong. It derives from the saying “Better to Light One Candle than Curse the Darkness.” - Confucius
Currently R I has 34,000 clubs and 1.3 million members worldwide
Gov. Primack urged us to send news articles, releases and club updates to Robyn Platt Lacey and to copy her on the submissions.
President Brian asked that board members come early to the July 18th meeting to meet with District Governor Harriet Primack.
Brian also outlined his agenda for 2014-15:
Make the name change official to Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch
Ensure new membership is a major club initiative
Increase Outreach to the community, including the mayors
Set up the calendar for the year in advance, to help with planning and committee organization
Keep members informed
Continue the tradition of having members speak at Rotary meetings.
Roger spoke about the Clam Bake. A food vendor had not yet been decided upon. Ask members to go to the big cartel website to buy tickets but roger also had paper tickets.
Who Loves ya Long Branch? It’s Furnished with Love!
All You Need is Love: Carolyn Eyerman, Executive Director of Love, Inc., accepts the thanks of new Club President Brian Berry
THE CITY of Long Branch has many great civic and community outreach organizations. Many organizations that spend their time volunteering to do great things for those less fortunate right here at home.
Furnished With Love is one of those organizations. Furnished With Love is a used retail furniture store located right on Broadway,that caters to the working poor and needy. It has an assortment of good used furniture at reasonable prices. Not only does Furnished with Love accept donations of furniture, it also donates furniture to those in need. In 2012, $20,383.00 worth of free furniture was distributed throughout Monmouth County, much of it here in Long Branch.
Last Friday, the club heard an informative presentation from Carolyn Eyerman, Executive Director, of Love, Inc., which is the parent organization of Furnished With Love. Love Inc., provides local residents with everything from crises assistance, to helping them stave off eviction, transportation assistance and much more. Love Inc. is associated with 138 churches and 34 agencies here in Monmouth County. For information on how to donate or get involved, visit them online at www.loveinc.org
Running for Fisher House
Supporting Fisher House: Rotarian Lt Col William Spence talks about his fundraising efforts for Fisher House by running the 2014 Marine Corps Marathon.
The Club would like to recognize and congratulate our own Sergeant-at-Arms, who is actually a Lt. Colonel - Bill Spence. For the 2nd consecutive year, Bill is running the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C., this year for Fisher House. Fisher House Foundation is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment.
These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, close to the medical center or hospital they serve. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room and an inviting living room. Fisher House Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee. Since inception, the program has saved military and veterans’ families an estimated $235 million in out of pocket costs for lodging and transportation.
Finishing Up Ronald McDonald House: That’s Rotarian Gordon Hegge painting a previously unreachable section of the McDonald House, courtesy of the “Bucket Truck” provided by Mike Chambers Oakhurst Electric
Last week’s column featured several Rotarians and friends during their project of painting the Ronald McDonald House. Well, none of it would have happened without help from some very special friends and area businesses. The Club would like to offer a heartfelt thanks to the following:
Ricciardi Brothers Paints
Trinity Solar
Bains Hardware
Mike Chambers, Oakhurst Electric
Don’t Miss The Rotary Club’s Clam Bake
The Rotary Club of Long Branch invites one and all to join us for the Annual Clam Bake. The Clam Bake will be held August 14 at 5pm at the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club, which is located at Renwick Place, just off of Patten Avenue here in Long Branch. The evening includes Music, Food, Beverages and Games for the kids! Tickets range from $45 to $60, depending on whether or not you’d like a lobster with your meal, and tickets for the kids are only $12. Get your tickets today at: http://rclb.bigcartel.com
IT’S BEEN AN ACTIVE MONTH for the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch with many activities underway that include community based projects, ceremonial rites of passage, combined with good will and fellowship.
RCGLB SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: L-R: Tyler Schick, guest, Mary Jo Kenny, guest, Gabby Lugos, LBHS recipient, Jordan Hayes, Shore Regional recipient, Jordan Hayes, guest parent, Kathleen Moretti, SRHS guidance counselor, Bailey Warder, Shore Regional recipient, Tina DeRosa – parent.
ANNUAL SCHOLOARSHIP AWARD
The Club handed out its annual scholarship award for 2014. The award went to 6 deserving students – three each from Shore Regional High School and Long Branch High School. The awarded funds can be used for tuition, books and other critical supplies to help area students and families pay for the high cost of college. The recipients included: Jordan Hayes, Kathleen Sempkowski and Bailey Warder from Shore Regional, and Ka'trell Andrews, Gabriela Lugos,and Justiss McKinney from Long Branch High School.
PAINT PARTY! Rotarians and Friends Paint the Ronald McDonald House on June 21st.
RONALD McDONALD GETS A NEW FACE
Over the weekend’s of June 14th and June 21st, Club members and other volunteers gathered on the grounds of The Ronald McDonald House armed with paint brushes, rollers, paint and power washers. The end result was that the structure was given a beautiful and much needed paint job.
The Ronald McDonald House offers a welcoming, supportive environment for families during a time of uncertainty and stress. Family members can stay together in a comfortable home with private rooms and many amenities, helping them to remain strong throughout the course of their child’s treatment.
NEW PRESIDENT OF RCGLB: Lex Tucci installs Brian Berry as new Club President and Mike Ciavolino as President Elect.
NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN
The new President of the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch for 2014- 2015 is Mr. Brian Berry. Brian is a Vice President, Financial Advisor with Wells Fargo and has deep roots in the community where he has a long track record of fundraising and community support activities.
In addition to his role as President of the Club, Brian is also President of the Waves of Hope Foundation. Waves of Hope raises funds and awareness for organizations such as the Pediatrics Center at Monmouth Medical, the Cancer Institute of N.J., and Project Assist, which helps local families in distress.
The Club would like to thank outgoing President Mika Hon, owner of NJ Ink Shop for his tireless service and commitment during his year as President. Mr. Hon’s tenure included successful stewardship of the Art Show Fundraiser, his concept and the Club’s signature fundraising event, a successful food drive, helping to grow the Club’s membership and many other community-based activities.
The Rotary Club of Long Branch invites one and all to join us for the Annual Clam Bake. The Clam Bake will be held August 14 at 5pm at the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club, which is located at Renwick Place, just off of Patten Avenue here in Long Branch. The evening includes Music, Food, Beverages and Games for the kids! Tickets range from $45 to $60, depending on whether or not you’d like a lobster with your meal, and tickets for the kids are only $12. Get your tickets today at: http://rclb.bigcartel.com
* President Mika spoke about an organization called GP Homestay. He shared the following note:
Greetings, I hope this email finds you well. My name is Michael Miller and I am emailing you on behalf of GP Homestay, an organization that works with St. Rose High School on finding safe, family oriented homestays for international students that will be studying at SRHS. This upcoming year there will be several students in the 9th and 10th grades coming from China to study at St. Rose. Part of our goal for these students is to give them the experience of living with an American family in the community where they attend school. We compensate the families with the cost of housing an international student through a monthly stipend. We try to find the right families through community groups like yours. What I would like to ask of you is to provide information on our search for homestay families on an online bulletin/newsletter you may have. For every applicant that we approve that initially comes our way through your community we would be happy to make a $150 donation to you or a community charity of your choice. I would be more than happy to speak with you further about our organization and the program as I do understand that this is an email that is out of the blue and it would be important for you to ensure that we are in fact a legitimate organization. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you. Warm Regards
The Club will paint the Ronald mcdonald house the weekend of june 21st/22nd. A sign up sheet was passed around for volunteers.
The Induction dinner is June 19th at McCloones Pier House. Mika and Roger asked for members to put ads in the journal. Below are the bio’s of our two honorees.
John Gibney of Investors Bank was inducted into the Club. He was sponsored by Brian Berry. Welcome John!
June 15th is the Care Show where the Club will be having a table. Volunteers were asked to man the table at the event
Our Speaker was Jill Merriman, Marketing Director of Two River Theatre in Red Bank
Inside the Club Honorees:
Two favorite sons of Long Branch
Jack Kiely and Dan George
On June 19th The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch will be honoring Jack Kiely and Danny George as the co-recipients of the 2014 Club Community Service Award. Herer is a snapshot of the club’s two honorees:
Jack Kiely Jr.
John “Jack” Francis Kiely Jr. was born at Monmouth Medical Center in 1934 to John and Anne Kiely of Rockwell Ave, Long Branch NJ. Jack attended Long Branch High School and graduated from LaSalle Military Academy in 1953. Jack studied at Villanova and served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1960.
Jack is ex-chief of the Long Branch Fire Department and helped start the department’s training division. Jack and his father, Jack Sr. were also the first father/son Captain’ of the Long Branch First Aid Squad in their history.
As CEO of J.F. Kiely Construction Co., Jack has always felt a civic duty to give back to the communities in which his company and its employees perform work. Jack has been a pillar in the community for more than 50 years. He and his wife Carolyn have always been associated to many civic and charitable events and have donated time and resources to numerous charities and organizations.
He has served as President or committee member of the Long Branch Chamber of Commerce, the Monmouth County Economic Development Organization, the Monmouth County Boy Scouts, the Red Cross, and the Monmouth County Rehabilitation Board. He is also an accomplished champion power boater.
Jack is celebrating 43 years of marriage to his lovely wife Carolyn. Together they have a son John and daughter-in-law Mary and two granddaughters Kaitlyn and Tarin to whom he shows much love and affection.
Dan George
Coach George is a 1983 graduate of Long Branch High School who lettered in both wrestling and football. His grandparents, parents, siblings, and children were all educated here.
A member of the Long Branch High School Hall of Fame, Coach George went on to graduate from Ohio State University in 1988 with a BS in Accounting and proceeded to earn two master degrees from Monmouth University in Education and Administration. Coach George aspires to live up to the Rotary motto “service above self” every day.
Coach George’s passion for working with children led him to a teaching position in 1999 at his alma mater, Long Branch High School. Coach George serves as head football, wrestling and track coach. A math teacher for twenty years, Coach George is currently the Officer of Student Affairs, tasked with assisting all student athletes in their academics, attendance and college plans.
Coach George has amassed nearly 600 wins and has twice being named New Jersey State Coach of the Year, (2008 and 2009): the first Monmouth County coach in history to be so honored. He was also named Region and District Coach of the Year four times (1993, 2007, 2008, and 2009). His teams have won 15 divisional championships, 7 state championships, finished number one in New Jersey (2009) and twice ranked nationally (2008, 2009). Coach George was inducted into the New Jersey Scholastic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2009.
Coach George resides in Long Branch with his wife Lisa (nee Grasso), his son Daniel (21) a graduate of the Long Branch school system, son Nicholas (19) currently a student at Roger Williams University in Rhode Island, and daughter Abigail (14) a student at Long Branch Middle School.
GET YOUR TICKETS
Tickets are $50 and include hors d’oeuvres, salad and pasta and carving stations.
The evening will also feature the annual induction of the new Rotary officers for 2014-15. President Elect Brian Berry will take over as President of the Club, while Dr. Tyler Richards will become President-Elect.
Freddy Hill, Seton Hall Assistant Basketball Coach being thanked by Pres. Mika Hon
The meeting was called to order by President Mika Hon. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. Mika welcomed visiting Asbury Park Rotary President, Tom Gilmour and all of the Seton Hall Alumni.
President Mika made the following announcements:
· We are prepping to help paint the Ronald McDonald House on June 14th. Painting will occur June 21 and 22. A sign-up sheet was passed around. Please volunteer if you can spare some time. Rotary Club of Long Branch was one of the motivating factors in establishing Ronald McDonald house here.
· The Club will participate in the Long Branch Car Show this year on June 15th and be operating a booth at Pavilion. Please let President-elect Brian know if you can help.
· The induction ceremony for incoming President Brian Berry will take place on June 19th. We will also be honoring Jack Kiely and Dan George at the event.
McLoones Pier House in Pier Village from 6:00 to 9:00pm.
Compiling an ad journal $20 ¼ page $40 ½ page and $60 for full page.
Seton Hall alumni, Nick Scaletti introduced today’s speaker Freddy Hill, Assistant Basketball Coach at Seton Hall.
Freddy outlined his coaching career that spans more than 15 years and includes other universities including Villanova, Rutgers, and Northwestern.
Fred Hill is in his second year as an assistant on head coach Kevin Willard's staff at Seton Hall. Hill begins his second stint as an assistant coach for the Pirates where he helped bring in the top-ranked recruiting class in the nation to South Orange in 2000-01.
Hill was instrumental in guiding Seton Hall to the postseason in his three years (1998-2001) under head coach Tommy Amaker, which included a run to the Sweet 16 in 2000. He mentored three-time All-BIG EAST selection and the Pirates' current associate head coach Shaheen Holloway (1996-2000), two-time All-BIG EAST honoree Andre Barrett (2000-04), along with NBA veterans Eddie Griffin, the 2000-01 BIG EAST Rookie of the Year, and Samuel Dalembert (1999-2001).
With 30-years of coaching experience at the Division I level, he returned to South Orange after spending the last two seasons at Northwestern University as an assistant on Bill Carmody's staff in the Big Ten. He previously served four years as head coach at Rutgers from 2006-10, promoted to the position after one year as associate head coach. While at Rutgers, Hill recruited a pair of top-50 players, including the first McDonald's All-American in program history (Mike Rosario).
Hill helped guide four different programs to nine consecutive postseason appearances from 1998-2006 as a member of the coaching staffs at Fairleigh Dickinson, Seton Hall, Villanova and Rutgers. He garnered national recognition as the No. 1 assistant coach in the country by Basketball Times (2004-05) and by Lindy's College Basketball magazine (2002-03) during his time as an assistant at Villanova.
Hill also helped Villanova return to prominence from 2001-05 as the Wildcats advanced to the Sweet 16 in 2005. It was the program's first NCAA tournament bid since 1999 and its first Sweet 16 since 1988. In 2002-03, Hill was instrumental in signing a premier recruiting class that ranked top five nationally, which featured four top-50 recruits - Jason Fraser (No. 5), Curtis Sumpter (No. 25), Randy Foye (No. 32) and Allan Ray (No. 40).
A 1981 graduate of Montclair State, Hill began his coaching career in 1981-82 at his alma mater. He also held assistant coaching positions at Maine (1988-91), Marquette (1986-88), Rider (1983-86) and Lehigh (1982-83).
Fred then took a number of questions regarding players and team philosophy from the floor.
The meeting was called to order by President Mika Hon. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. Mika welcomed visiting Rotarians, Gene Petraglia and his wife Marlin from California. Gene is the President of the Vista, California Club.
President Mika made the following announcements:
District 7500 sent $36,000 to Shelterbox as a result of contributions from the Clubs in the District. Of that total, 95% went to the Phillipines.
The Club will be delivering the food collected by Shore Regional, and being stored at Mika’s shop, to The Lutheran Church of the Reformation (Rev. Al’s Church) on Wednesday.
We are planning to help paint the Ronald McDonald House on June 7th.
The Club will participate in the Long Branch Car Show this year on June 15th and be operating a booth. Please let President-elect Brian know if you can help.
The induction ceremony for incoming President Brian Berry will take place on June 19th. We will also be honoring Jack Kiely and Dan George at the event.
The Scholarship Committee will be meeting on Monday to review the applications.
Tyler Richards -A member of the Club for about 7 years, Tyler Richards spoke to the Club to provide an update on his daughter as well as recommendations for health and well-being. As many of you know, Tyler’s daughter was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Tyler was pleased to report that she is currently thriving but noted that they are not out of the woods yet. Tyler spoke of the experience of going through the diagnosis to discovering the best way to fight. He said the most valuable asset you have is your health and asked members what they do to invest in their health. Tyler believes we cover up symptoms using too many chemicals through Pharmaceuticals. He said that only you are responsible for your health and it is important to monitor what you put into your body and you care for your well-being. Tyler said proper nutrition and exercise are essential components. He attributed some nutritional changes to the improvement in his daughter’s health.
Gene Petraglia – Gene is President of the Vista, California Rotary Club which was chartered in 1936. He said his Club went through some changes in the past 30 years as many Clubs have around the country. He said they went from 140 members in the 1980’s to only a handful of members a few years ago. They changed from a lunch club to a happy-hour club and doubled membership in 6 months. After a District Strategic Planning Session, they were able to implement changes that led to the current membership of about 20. The Club has been involved in setting up a Dental Clinic, providing shoes for kids and are providing 8 scholarships a year.
They ran and then they ran some more. And if they weren’t running, they were handing out racing bibs, they were handing out t-shirts, they were giving a helping hand, and they were manning fluid stations. But more than anything the over 100 + individuals who showed up at Monmouth Park over the weekend of April 25th to April 27th volunteered to Kick Cancer Overboard and ultimately support people affected by cancer, people who are their friends, and in many cases, people who they love.
Kick Cancer Overboard is a local non-profit organization with a very simple mission: To give away FREE cruises, to people whose lives have been affected by cancer. During this annual cruise, their main concern is NOT how to pay for their next medical bill, but whether to play bingo, get a massage or sing karaoke all night long.
Kick Cancer Overboard (KCO) is the brainchild of Ted Friedli, the owner of Excel Travel in Long Branch. In May 2010, he ran the idea by his friends DonnaLyn Giegerich and Tom Zapcic, Red Bank, President of Heritage Benefits Group LLC, who both “jumped on board” immediately to help grow KCO.
The organization has given away over 80 cruises since that time, and this year was no different. Thanks to the running and fundraising efforts of Ryan Zacharczyk, Mike Strycharz and Barb Youchah, KCO was able to send Susan Astwood and her mother of West Long Branch on a cruise.
Also this year, thanks to a team of 70 strong volunteers, KCO was able to send Detective Sergeant John Green of the Ocean Township Police Department, his wife Amie and their two daughters on a cruise to Bermuda this Fall. The volunteers were put together by John’s friends, Ed Aldarelli and Mike Ciavolino who gathered friends, family, co-workers, business associates and members of the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch in order to send the Green’s packing for Bermuda.
“Anybody affected by cancer can submit their request for a free cruise on the KCO website, “ said Friedli. A committee will review the entries on a regular basis and choose the most deserving cancer fighters. We would also thank MARIO DACUNHA of Mario Marcal Studios and Tom Zapcic for taking the great photos and to Traci and the Salad Shack staff for doing such a great job every year. “
For more information on Kick Cancer Overboard, and how to send a deserving individual on a cruise, visit them online at www.kickcanceroverboard.org
The meeting was called to order by Vice President Mike Ciavalino. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Jack Kearns delivered the Invocation. Vice President Mike welcomed our guests, Frank Ross, Landscaper, and John Gibney, Investors.
Vice President Mike made the following announcements:
- June 19th is the Club’s Induction ceremony. Brian Berry will be inducted as the new President of the Club and Dan George as well as Jack Kiely will be honored.
- We are planning to help paint the Ronald McDonald House on a weekend in late May or early June.
- Last Sunday was the marathon where Club members supported the efforts of Kick Cancer Overboard. Two families that are dealing with cancer will be the beneficiaries of cruise to Bermuda as a result of the efforts of Kick Cancer Overboard.
- Our very own Barb Youcah was one of the finishers of the ½ marathon. Congratulations, Barb!
- The Club will participate in the Long Branch Car Show this year.
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Speaker
Vice President Mike introduced our guest speaker, Barry Stein from the City of Long Branch to talk about the Long Branch Summer Series program sponsored in part by the City of Long Branch Urban Enterprise Zone Program. Barry distributed the schedules for the summer and detailed some of the exciting events throughout the summer which includes:
· Downtown Tuesday Night Concerts at the Broadway Bandshell behind Brookdale beginning at 7pm throughout July.
· Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival August 23rd from 1pm-10pm featuring well known jazz and blues artists as well as fireworks on the Great Lawn
· Blues by the Beach on Sundays in West End Park beginning June 8th at 7pm and continuing until August 24th
· Thursday by the Sea on Thursdays at Festival Plaza in Pier Village starting June 12th at 7:00pm through August 28th.
· Wednesdays in West End at the West End Bandshell June 25th and July 30th
John M. Bonforte, Monmouth Rubber being thanked by Pres. Mika Hon
Invocation: Paul Peacock
Pledge: Al Peskoe
President Notes:
End of May/Early June We will look for volunteers in the group and pick a date to paint the Ronald McDonald house.
Induction Dinner: June 19th at McCloones Pier Village; We'll be honoring Dan George and Jack Kiley; Details to follow. The club may do an ad book for this event.
New Sgt at Arms Bill Spence will now be enforcing fines. The list of enforceable fines will be sent out to members.
Speaker:
John M. Bonforte, Sr.
General Manager & Technical Director
Monmouth Rubber
John Attended Monmouth College majoring in Accounting with a minor in Business Administration. He was a member of the National Guard Army Reserves and received his commission as a Second Lieutenant.
Mr. Bonforte started his business career at Rubatex Corp., the largest closed cell rubber and plastic manufacturer in the U.S. In 1967, he left Rubatex® to operate Monmouth Rubber Corp. as President and General Manager.
He is married to Barbara Bonforte who is a retired school teacher. They have four grown children - Kristin and Scott run the family food business, Kelly Ann teaches in Rumson and John Jr. has joined the Monmouth Rubber & Plastics Team. They also have eleven grandchildren.
Excerpts from John’s presentation:
“It is with pride that I can announce that Monmouth Rubber & Plastics is celebrating its 50th anniversary. I started the company in 1964 at the age of 23 in my uncle's cellar in Long Branch, NJ. 50 years later, Monmouth has grown to be one of the top 3 manufacturers of closed cell rubber & plastic foam in the United States. The success of the company has far exceeded the dreams I had back then. Monmouth Rubber is a family owned and operated business. Our family values have allowed us to focus on our customers and products and not just our financial success. Our loyal customers, our valued suppliers and our dedicated employees are who allow us to continue to grow. Under the leadership of John Jr., our goal remains to continue to serve our customers by supplying the highest quality products and customer service for the next 50 years. “\
ROTARIANS UNITE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION: Club Rotarians including Club President Mika Hon (2nd from r) and Rotary District Governor Sheila Vinton ® at the Club’s 3rd Annual Art Show.
3RD ANNUAL ART SHOW: Club Members Dr. Tyler Richards (l) and Ms. Fatin Alklaleel working at the Club’s annual show at Deal Country Club.
3rd Annual Club Art Show scores big for Special Education
On Thursday April 10th the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch once again successfully held their annual signature event: The Art Show to benefit the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. The show was held at the fabulous Deal Country Club as it has been each year.
The Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund was established so that individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from the pool of money raised. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students.
Attendees to the event were treated to an evening of curated art for sale by some of the area’s finest artists as well as select craft beer and wine samplings courtesy Shore Point Distributors. The entertainment for the evening was provided by the legendary area band Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces. The Club raised approximately $3000 for the fund at this year’s show.
Rockin for Rotary!: The Legendary Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces entertained guests all night at the Club’s Art Show.
HAPPY 70th BIRTHDAY ROGER HANSEN!: On Wednesday, April 16th Club Members and friends helped our very own Roger Hansen (seated at left) celebrate his 70 Birthday at Ron’s West End Pub.
April 4, 2014
By Barb Youchah
Holly Howard from the Broadway Dolls being thanked by Ted Friedli and Pres. Mika Hon
Pledge by Al Peskoe
Invocation by Paul Peacock
50/50 winner was Ken Gitell
Guests: Adele Samarco, Frank Ross and speaker, Hollie Howard
Announcements by President Mika:
· District conference May 2nd - May 4th in Point Pleasant
· Food Drive is ongoing; thank you to everyone who brought donations and those whom assisted in dropping food off.
· Art Show on April 10th
· buy your tickets for the Art Show ASAP need a head count.
Bringing back First Friday Happy Hour upstairs at Piancone's. Thank you to those that were able to make it. Mark your calendars for May 2nd!
No meeting next week because the art show is Thursday night. Additionally there will be no meeting the following week on the 18th because it's Good Friday.
Presentation: Hollie Howard - Broadway Dolls
Hollie is achieving her dream with the Broadway Dolls. Broadway triple threat Hollie Howard has appeared in the original casts of Hairspray, Mamma Mia! and Annie Get Your Gun, with Reba McEntire. She has also appeared on the Tony Awards, Rosie O’Donnell, David Letterman, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Jerry Lewis Telethon, The Today Show and Conan O’Brien. Hollie can be heard on the original Broadway cast recordings of Hairspray and Fame. She made guest appearances on Guiding Light and One Life To Live and played the lead in the films, First Breath, A Missed Engagement, and The Interview (Long Island Film Festival Nominee), as well as worked on the film Across the Universe.
Hollie enjoyed growing up in Jefferson City, Missouri. Since leaving the lead role of Penny Pingleton in Hairspray on Broadway, Hollie has been very active as an educator, as well as in the NYC and Regional Theatre scene. She is also the Creator of The Broadway Dolls, the Official Girl Group of Broadway. Cast is made up of twenty women and includes a choreographer, stage director, etc. Live band and creative team are all male.
On Saturday night April 5th, Broadway Dolls performed live at Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank. There was a full 60's era set, broadway numbers, pop, country, jazz and rock n' roll. A little bit of something for everyone! At 5:00pm happy hour began with specially mixed cocktails and 12 vendors from the Red Bank community selling their items.
Hollie is very interested in being an active member of the Jersey Shore community after relocating to Colts Neck.
3rd Annual Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Art Show
The Club’s 3rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10th at the fabulous Deal Country Club.
The evening will feature curated original artwork for sale from some of the Shore area’s finest artists, wine and beer tastings, and a light dinner. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the legendary band “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces.”
A portion of the evenings’ proceeds will be donated to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.
For tickets, more information on sponsorship opportunities or if you are an artist looking to display and sell your artwork, please http://rclb.bigcartel.com
April 4, 2014 Meeting and April 10th 3rd Annual Art show
Guests: Guests of Mike Ciavolino -Speaker Debbie Smith, Colleen Healy, Cliff Grossi, Lara Gottlieb; Ida Keiper,
Announcements:
· District conference May 2nd - May 4th in Point Pleasant
· Food Drive is ongoing;
· Art Show on April 10th
· Please bring a bottle of wine to the next meeting for Rotary Art Show gift baskets
· buy your tickets and take an ad in the ad book for the Art Show
Social Media Strategist Ms. Deborah Smith accepts the Club thanks for her presentation from Club Vice President, Mike Ciavolino
Ready to Grow your Business? Get Social with Deborah Smith
There’s no doubt that one of the keys to growing a business, no matter what the size, is to have a active and relevant social media presence. On Friday March 28th the Club heard and informative presentation from one of the area’s thought leaders on social media for business, Ms. Deborah Smith.
Long before the dawn of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Google +, there were message boards, chat rooms and email groups. In 1998, Deborah used these ancestors of social media to launch her first business, which included owning and operating several websites serving the nanny industry.
In 2007, Deborah launched what is now Jersey Bites, a popular collaborative blog that features restaurant reviews, recipe sharing, and food-related events throughout New Jersey. She soon began using Twitter and Facebook to build a following for Jersey Bites, which now has more than 11,000 combined followers and fans. Jersey Bites welcomes over 25,000 unique viewers every month and is now a content partner with NJ.com.
During her presentation, Deb walked club members though how to advertise on Facebook, best practices for building your campaign and also an overview of LinkedIn company pages.
Deborah is a sought-after social media consultant, strategist, marketer, trainer, coach and public speaker. She uses lessons learned from her own personal experience, as well as the latest social media educational training, to help businesses and organizations harness the power of social media, from the very basics to the most advanced social strategies. For more information on her business, please contact her at http://deborahlsmith.com
THANK YOU SHORE REGIONAL! Students and Staff pose behind all of the food they donated for the Club Food Drive. From Left: Ms. Allison Cronk- Student Council Advisor, Junior Kevin Donnegan, Junior Max Sobrano, Junior Samantha Todres, Freshman George Todres, Mrs. Cecilia Ross- Student Council Advisor, Ms. Kristen Pontoriero- Interact Advisor.
Club Food Drive Gets a Big Hand from Shore Regional High School
On Friday March 28th, Rotary Club of Long Branch members went to Shore Regional High School where they picked up over 2500 items of canned goods and other non-perishables, designed to feed the needy of our area. As part of the school’s “battle of the classes” where classes competed to see who could bring in the most food, the donations amounted to some of the largest on record and took four carloads to carry it all. The food will now be organized and distributed to food pantries and churches in our area in the coming week. The Club would like to extend a huge thank you to the kids, staff and administration at Shore Regional for working so hard on this very important project.
Pick-up and Delivery team: VP Mike Ciavolino, Paul Dement, Gordon Heggie. Not in photo are Pres. Mika Hon & Ken Gittell
3rd Annual Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Art Show
The Club’s 3rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10th at the fabulous Deal Country Club.
The evening will feature curated original artwork for sale from some of the Shore area’s finest artists, wine and beer tastings, and a light dinner. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the legendary band “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces.”
A portion of the evenings’ proceeds will be donated to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.
For tickets, more information on sponsorship opportunities or if you are an artist looking to display and sell your artwork, please http://rclb.bigcartel.com
Jill Carman being inducted into the Club by Pres. Mika Hon.
Welcome to the Rotary Club of Long Branch Jill.
Pledge - Al Peskoe
Invocation: Paul Peacock
50/50 winner: Bill Spence
Visiting Rotarians: Mike Dimino, Barnegat Club about his club's 50/50
Adele Sammarco - NJ Rep/ Guest of Brian Berry
Tom Farrell - Guest of Brian Berry
Jessica Shaw - Guest of Brian Berry
Melanie Siano –Guest of Bill Boglioli
Sari Alkhaleel - Guest (son) of Fatin Alkhaleel
Jean Mckinney - Guest of Brian Berry
Rotary Clubs Honor Lombardi Recipients
On Thursday March 6th at the Sheraton in Eatontown the Rotary Clubs of Monmouth County including the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch honored the most outstanding coaches and high school offensive lineman at the 42nd Vince Lombardi Awards Banquet.
The qualities that embody the players chosen for the award are discipline, courage, endurance, desire, ability and performance. These were all on display the evening of March 6th.
The evening also served as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, The Center for Vocational Rehab, and the Monmouth County Rotary Clubs community projects. The highlight of the evening was the 2013-14 presentation of the John Tuggle Memorial Award to Tyler Fischer of Holmdel High School. The Tuggle award goes to a young person who has shown great perseverance in overcoming a disability, disadvantage, or other adversity. Mr. Fischer has battled a heart ailment all his life and recently has had two additional surgeries. His speech to the packed house was both moving and inspirational.
Ida Keiper of Starbrite Kids accepts thanks from Club President-Elect Brian Berry.
Traveling with Your Special Needs Child? Check out Starbright Kids
On Friday March 7th at our regular meeting, the Club heard from Jesemine Jones and Ida Keiper, educators and founders of Starry Night Travel, LLC.
Together, they have introduced Starbrite Kids, a program that specializes in providing travel accommodations for children with special needs.
Their program provides families the information to make travel a pleasant and memorable experience with special needs children. Starbrite has partnered with vacation suppliers who provide accommodations and support to families with children with special needs. They also organize group vacations throughout the year, assist families to choose and book destinations, and arrange for any special equipment or devices required.
They have co-authored with Dr. Emily Jones, Starbrite Traveler: A Traveler Resource of Parents of Children with Special Need for parents, caregivers, and educators to help parents plan a successful vacation. The book is an illustrated guide that gives families a well-organized, confidence building, easy to read, travel resource. This guide holds the reader’s hand every step of the way, from dreaming about travel to arriving at their destination. Follow the 5 D’s of travel, Dream, Determine, Dry Run, Depart, and Destinations to plan an amazing trip for the family. A portion of the proceeds of the books is donated to children’s charities. For more information, visit them at http://starbritetravel.com
Guest speaker Amy Zambrano, Amy's Yogabilities
Amy’s Yogabilities – Yoga for all ages and abilities
On Friday March 14th Amy Zambrano spoke to the Club about her fascinating business: Amy’s Yogabilities. Amy’s Yogabilities is a special needs yoga program for children and teens that focuses on empowering the mind, body, and spirit awareness for maintaining a healthy well being. This program inspires students to reach their full potential and bring the benefits of yoga to ALL abilities.
Through positive affirmations and core strengthening exercises, students will enhance their concentration and coordination skills, sensory processing and integration. Students will engage in balancing exercises through games, support self regulating abilities, and engage children in breathing/meditation exercises for relaxation. Students will learn to incorporate yoga on and off their mats to bring it into their everyday life.
Amy’s Yogabilities inspires us to remember that we are all able to practice yoga because yoga is more than just poses on a mat.
Amy is currently planning a volunteer service trip to Nairobi. Kenya in June, 2014. For more information on donating to this great project and on Amy’s Yogabilities visit her website: http://amysyogabilities.com
3rd Annual Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Art Show
The Club’s 3rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10th at the fabulous Deal Country Club.
The evening will feature curated original artwork for sale from some of the Shore area’s finest artists, wine and beer tastings, and a light dinner. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the legendary band “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces.”
A portion of the evenings’ proceeds will be donated to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.
For tickets, more information on sponsorship opportunities or if you are an artist looking to display and sell your artwork, please http://rclb.bigcartel.com
Ida Keiper, Starbrite Traveler being thanked by Pres. Elect Brian Berry
The meeting was called to order by President Elect Brian Berry. Bob Celli led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. Welcome our guest speaker, Ida Keiper from Starbrite Kids/Starbrite Travel providing travel agent services to families with special needs children and people with disabilities.
President Elect Brian made the following announcements:
- Breakfast with Joe Tordella on March 1st was successful recapped by Barb.
Lombardi Dinner attendees
- Annual Rotary Lombardi Dinner was last evening, March 6th at Sheraton Eatontown Hotel. Most present at the meeting were also at dinner so a brief recap was given by President Elect Brian.
- The Club’s 3rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10th at the fabulous Deal Country Club.
The evening will feature curated original artwork for sale from some of the Shore area’s finest artists, wine and beer tastings, and a light dinner. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the legendary band “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces.”
A portion of the evenings’ proceeds will be donated to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students.
For tickets, more information on sponsorship opportunities or if you are an artist looking to display and sell your artwork, please email Club President Mika Hon at:mika@njinkshop.com, or call him 848-391-5181.
- The District 7500 Conference is being held May 2nd – 4th in Point Pleasant. They decided to have the conference locally because of the need to give back to the area after the affects of Sandy. The Conference will be a la carte, meaning you can attend only those events that you wish. There will be Plenary sessions on Friday and Saturday along with wine tasting, Friday night murder/mystery, Rotary sing-off, guest speakers from around the world, and a Sunday run/walk to raise funds for polio plus.
- Change Over Dinner will be held June 19th at McLoone's Pier House here in Long Branch. Honorees include Jack Kiely and Dan George. Brian Berry will be sworn in as President and Mike Ciavolino as Vice President.
Speaker: Ida Keiper
President Elect Brian introduced our guest speaker, Ida Keiper of Starbrite Kids/Starbrite Travel. Ida and her business partner, Jesemine Jones provide travel agent services for families with kids with special needs. Ida has had decades of experience as an educator and decided to make a change in her career path when retirement was entirely too boring. Authors of two Starbrite Traveler books: A Travel Resource for Parents of Children with Special Needs and Special Needs Destinations for Kids - East Coast Edition as well as an activity/coloring book.
The program is broken down into 5 Steps: Dream, Determine, Dry Run, Depart and Destination. These steps help to prepare children and help reduce stresses from change in routine and environment.
Prior to the trip the family is provided with
-Pre-Trip Questionnaire to determine and work within parameters of disabilities (wheelchairs, lifts, dietary needs)
-Suggested hotels, all inclusive resorts and cruise lines that have special provisionsto decide what trips will work best for the family
-Important tips and information to prepare for trip
- Visual stories to work the children to manage expectations and reduce behavioral/sensory issues.
Shore Regional Graduate and now Foreign Diplomat, U.S. Department of State, Joe Tordella, speaks to the combined Rotary Clubs of Greater Long Branch, Asbury Park and Red Bank.
Shore Regional grad Joe Tordella, U.S. Department of State, meets with area Rotary Clubs.
In 1993, a young Joe Tordella was a wide-eyed freshman at Shore Regional High School. Fifteen years later, Mr. Tordella is a highly skilled, multi-lingual, world-traveling Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Department of State.
How does one make such a journey from West Long Branch to the State Department and all points abroad in such a short time period? When you have an opportunity to meet this young man, you quickly realize that the sky is the limit for this bright, talented and engaging individual.
Saturday morning in the Concord Room at the Eatontown Sheraton, Mr. Tordella delivered a highly informative and entertaining presentation to the Rotary Clubs of Greater Long Branch, Red Bank and Asbury Park on what it is like to be a diplomat for the United States and how he got there.
Prior to joining the U.S. Department of State in 2007, Joe worked as a strategy consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton and IBM.
He earned a graduate degree from the London School of Economics and an undergraduate degree from American University. Joe has learned Arabic and Russian as part of his State Department training and he informally picked up some Spanish, Farsi, Hebrew and Tagalog through his travels and assignments.
In his current role, specializing in public diplomacy, Mr. Tordella and other diplomats just like him, represent the US around the globe, working to foster deeper relationships with people and civil society groups around the world.
Working in U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, Joe helps design communication strategies and programs that connect people around the world with each other and with the United States in ways that help advance U.S. foreign policy objectives.
Joe is currently in Washington learning Russian in preparation for his next assignment as a media relations officer at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. In October 2013, Joe returned from a yearlong assignment in Pakistan. He also served at the U.S. Embassies in Saudi Arabia, Isreal, Libya and the Philippines.
The Club’s 3rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10th at the fabulous Deal Country Club.
The evening will feature curated original artwork for sale from some of the Shore area’s finest artists, wine and beer tastings, and a light dinner. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the legendary band “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces.”
A portion of the evenings’ proceeds will be donated to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students.
For tickets, more information on sponsorship opportunities or if you are an artist looking to display and sell your artwork, please email Club President Mika Hon at: mika@njinkshop.com, or call him 848-391-5181.
Adele Sammarco, Director of Marketing and Communications for NJ Repertory Company accepts the thanks of Club President, Mika Hon.
The best little Theatre in Long Branch? NJ Repertory Company
Last week the Club heard from the Marketing Director of the New Jersey Repertory Company Adele Sammarco. If you’re not familiar with this fabulous little playhouse right at 175 Broadway here in the city, you should be.
The New Jersey Repertory Company is a professional, non-profit theater founded in 1997 by SuzAnne Barabas (Artistic Director) and Gabor Barabas (Executive Producer). Located in Long Branch, New Jersey, the theater's primary mission is to develop and produce new plays and to make a lasting contribution to the American stage.
Really as one of the hidden jewels of Long Branch, New Jersey Rep has produced 93 plays in seventeen seasons including 61 world premieres. The theater is committed to nurturing the work of not only established writers but new and unknown playwrights and has maintained an open- submission policy receiving over 750 scripts each year from throughout the U.S. and around the world.
For more information on the theatre, it’s productions or for tickets, please visit them online at http://www.njrep.org
Pres. Mika Hon thanking Rosemary Peters, Monmouth County Surrogate
The meeting was called to order by President Mika Hon. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. Welcome to Jill Carmen and our guest speaker, Rosemarie D. Peters, Esq., serving in her second term as Monmouth County Surrogate.
President Mika made the following announcements:
- The Club’s Fireside Chat will be held 7pm on February 25th upstairs at Piancone’s.
- The “Inter-City” Rotary Club meeting that will include the Clubs of Red Bank and Asbury Park as well as Long Branch will be held on Saturday, March 1st. The last week of February we will not have our regular Friday meeting. Instead Lex Tucci has found us an amazing speaker who we will meet with Saturday morning at Sheraton Eatontown Hotel. Joe Tordello will be having breakfast with us sharing his experiences as a US Diplomat in the Middle East and the Philippines. Joe has met with Rotary Clubs in the Middle East and should be a very entertaining speaker. It is mandatory that we register in advance for this event so Sheraton can accommodate us. Guests are welcome and our surrounding clubs have been invited as well. Breakfast will be $25 per person. Please go to rclb.bigcartel.com to register.
- Brian Berry discussed the Annual Rotary Lombardi Dinner to be held March 6th at Sheraton Eatontown Hotel. The Lombardi Dinner recognizes the achievement of shore area high school football lineman and benefits the American Cancer Society as well as area Rotary Clubs. Brian urged all to attend a great night and to sell raffle tickets to help with proceeds for the event.
- The District 7500 Conference is being held May 2nd – 4th in Point Pleasant. They decided to have the conference locally because of the need to give back to the area after the affects of Sandy. The Conference will be a la carte, meaning you can attend only those events that you wish. There will be Plenary sessions on Friday and Saturday along with wine tasting, Friday night murder/mystery, Rotary sing-off, guest speakers from around the world, and a Sunday run/walk to raise funds for polio plus.
- Planning has begun for the Club’s Art Show. Mark the calendar for April 10th at Deal Country Club from 5:30-8:30pm. An ad journal will be compiled.
- Gordon reminded everyone of his fundraiser at Brighton Bar Saturday February 15th. Doors at 8pm
Speaker
President Mika introduced our guest speaker, Rosemarie Peters, Monmouth County Surrogate. The main office is in Freehold with satellite offices located around the county on specific days of the week. Appointments are required to be seen at a satellite office and walk-ins are welcome in Freehold. While her office handles all court matters from guardianship, adoptions, minor trust funds etc, Rosemarie spoke with the club, discussing the costs of not having a will.
Main Benefits: Relieves family members of difficulty in handling of affairs. Is inexpensive in NJ costing a little over $100. Ability to reflect final wishes. It protects unmarried couples. Planning for what will happen to the home. Assists in protecting privacy.
Key Notes: Keep beneficiary information up to date. When leaving money to a minor, note who will have guardianship of the account. Leave money in the estate to cover burial and administrative expenses. Will can be written out and needs two witnesses and a notary signature on witnesses. Add a clause of where “remainder of property” should go. Name an executor, whom can be anyone. Mention anyone to be disinherited. Always know where the original of the will is located.
Important to write a will while healthy. Once incapacitated it can no longer be written whether it’s dementia, stroke, accident, etc. A Living Will and naming Power of Attorney is also important.
Pres. Elect Brian Berry thanking guest speaker Pete McCarthy, National Park Service
The meeting was called to order by President elect Brian Berry. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. President elect Brian Jill Carmen and our guest speaker, Pete McCarthy from the National Park Service as well as our visiting Rotarians Lynda Rose from the Red Bank Club and Gary Sicliano from the Asbury Park Club.
President elect Brian made the following announcements:
- The Club’s Fireside Chat will be held on February 25th upstairs at Piancone’s.
- The “Inter-City” Rotary Club meeting that will include the Clubs of Red Bank and Asbury Park as well as Long Branch will be held on Saturday, March 1st. The last week of February we will not have our regular Friday meeting. Instead Lex Tucci has found us an amazing speaker who we will meet with Saturday morning at the Sheraton at Eatontown. Joe Tordello will be having breakfast with us sharing his experiences as a US Diplomat in the Middle East and the Philippines. Joe has met with Rotary Clubs in the Middle East and should be a very entertaining speaker. It is mandatory that we register in advance for this event so the Sheraton can accommodate us. Guests are welcome and our surrounding clubs have been invited as well. Breakfast will be $25 per person. Please go to rclb.bigcartel.com to register.
- Brian Berry discussed the Annual Rotary Lombardi Dinner to be held March 6th at the Eatontown Sheraton. The Lombardi Dinner recognizes the achievement of shore area high school football lineman and benefits the American Cancer Society as well as area Rotary Clubs. Brian urged all to attend a great night and to sell raffle tickets to help with proceeds for the event.
- The District 7500 Conference is being held May 2nd – 4th in Point Pleasant. They decided to have the conference locally because of the need to give back to the area after the affects of Sandy. The Conference will be a la carte, meaning you can attend only those events that you wish. There will be Plenary sessions on Friday and Saturday along with wine tasting, Friday night murder/mystery, Rotary sing-off, guest speakers from around the world, and a Sunday run/walk to raise funds for polio plus.
- Brian Berry discussed the Annual Rotary Lombardi Dinner to be held March 6th at the Eatontown Sheraton. The Lombardi Dinner recognizes the achievement of shore area high school football lineman and benefits the American Cancer Society as well as area Rotary Clubs. Brian urged all to attend a great night and to sell raffle tickets to help with proceeds for the event.
- Planning has begun for the Club’s Art Show.
- Dr. Tyler Richards addressed the Club and thanked them for all the support that has been provided to his family.
- Bill Boglioli addressed the Club’s finances. He said the financial state of the Club is good with about $10,500 in the operating account. He said they will be establish a finance committee and will provide an annual budget.
- Paul Peacock addressed the Club regarding the Club’s Foundation account. He said that there is currently $136,000 in the Foundation’s account and that 5% of the balance is used to support our scholarships provided to Shore Regional and Long Branch High School students.
Speaker
President elect Brian introduced our guest speaker, Pete McCarthy, Superintendent of Gateway National Park, Sandy Hook. Pete has been with the National Park Service for 22 years with the majority of those being at Gateway National Park. He is a native of Monmouth County and has been at Sandy Hook for the past 4years. Pete addressed the rehabilitation of the buildings at Fort Hancock. He said the Park Service terminated the lease they had over the last ten years with a developer and have chosen a different route to rehabilitate the structures. An advisory group was formed consisting to 20 individuals with mixed interest to pursue a new path. A Request For Expression of Interest (RFEI) yielded 41 proposals that included an art studio, B&B, museums, as well as recreation. They received more proposals than anticipated and hope to move to a more formal process of accepting and deciding on proposals to move forward. Leases of up to 60 years will be provided conditioned upon the occupants rehabilitating the structure.
2.15 event for Dan Buck to benefit Krohns disease featuring Gordon's Black River Band and two other bands. Brighton Bar.
Lombardi Dinner March 6th. Mika Encouraged members to sell their raffle tickets.
Mika talked about the following events:
DISTRICT 7500 MID-YEAR ASSEMBLY
JANUARY 27, 2014 3:45 PM
LA BOVE GRANDE
District 7500 Mid-Year Assembly
- President Elects meet 3:45pm
- Idea Exchange Workshop 4:45pm
- Registration/Dinner 5:45pm
- Keynote Speaker:John T Capps
DISTRICT 7500 MEMBERSHIP SEMINAR
JANUARY 28, 2014 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
MASTORI DINER
Membership seminar and idea exchange hosted by The Bordentown Rotary Club
John T Capps (also the keynote speaker of this year's Mid-Year Assembly) will be the featured speaker at the seminar.
Any interested Rotarian in the district is welcome and the cost if free to attend.
2013 DISTRICT CONFERENCE
MAY 02, 2014 4:00 PM - MAY 04, 2014 10:00 AM
POINT PLEASANT BEACH
2013 District Conference "Strengthen Our Shore"
Long Branch Mayor, Adam Schneider
Long Branch Rotary Club welcomes Mayor Schneider
On Friday, January 17th, the Mayor of the City of Long Branch, the honorable Adam Schneider took time out of his busy schedule to speak to the Rotary Club of Long Branch members and their guests on a wide range of issues.
“What I can talk to you about today are the following four topics:”, said Mayor Schneider. “Broadway, the boardwalk, the pier and the bridge. “
“Broadway” refers to the ongoing redevelopment plans of the Broadway Arts Center, located on Lower Broadway here in the city.
The financial problems and foreclosure proceedings for former Broadway Arts Center developer Broadway Arts Center LLC have halted the project, but a group called Diversified Realty Advisors have purchased the note from them.
Mayor Schneider indicated that if Diversified Realty Advisors does foreclose on the property, the city could sign a redevelopment agreement with the group.
"They haven't foreclosed on the property," Schneider said. "So its not in their ownership as of yet."
The Broadway Arts Center includes almost 200 properties, several vacant lots and 72 acres of the Broadway Corridor and encompasses area east of Liberty Street to Long Branch Avenue. The plan to develop the area included adding 70 new shops and restaurants, 500 residences and the performing arts theatres.
“The Boardwalk” refers to the plans to rebuild the boardwalk and the bluff south of Pier Village.
Although FEMA recently awarded the city with $14.5 million to rebuild the Hurricane Sandy-damaged bluff and boardwalk, the construction would not likely begin until after the summer.
"My guess is there is no way the bluff can be designed, engineered, bid and built before Memorial Day," Schneider said. "I don't want a construction site on the oceanfront during the summer."
The city built temporary beach access points last year and those helped the city bring in just short of $1.6 million in beach badge revenue in 2013. Schneider said having those in place for another summer should not deter people from coming to Long Branch's beaches.
"We had a banner summer," Schneider said. "And we're going to have a beach that's twice as big this summer."
He was referring to the Army Corps of Engineers sand replenishment project, which began in November and should be completed this spring.
“The Pier” refers to the pier/ferry project in the area around Pier Village. Recently the city reviewed three design proposals for the project. The pier would have restaurants, entertainment venues, retail stores, amusements, and a ferry service to Manhattan.
“The Bridge” refers to the saga of the Fort Lee lane closures allegedly authored by NJ Governor Chris Christie. “I have no idea if he knew or not, “ said Schneider, “I just know that I’ve never been pressured by him for anything myself. That’s the Governor’s issue to sort out. “ One can sympathize with the Mayor, particularly with a Pier, a Boardwalk and a Broadway to keep him occupied.
Join The Rotary Club of Long Branch for Breakfast with Joe Tordella
Joe Tordella is a U.S. diplomat specializing in public diplomacy, which is how the United States fosters deeper relationships with people and civil society groups around the world. Working in U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, Joe helps design communication strategies and programs that connect people around the world with each other and with the United States in ways that help advance U.S. foreign policy objectives.
Don't miss this truly unique opportunity to hear how foreign policy in the Middle East and in Russia is developed and implemented and how Joe develops relationships with Rotary and other civic organizations around the world.
Breakfast will be $25 and the RSVP deadline is February 22nd. Tickets can be purchased online at www.rclb.bigcartel.com
Vino Vinyasa Fundraiser
You’ve heard of Hot Yoga? How about combining Yoga and Wine? Amy’s Yogabilities (http://amysyogabilities.com) intends to do just that and do it for a good cause with their VINO VINYASA event at the Wine Loft in Pier Village on Wednesday, January 29th at 5:30pm. Participants will have the opportunity to “Wine and Unwind” for an evening of downward dogs and upward sips. $35 admission includes 1 hour yoga class, 2 glasses of wine & donation to The Africa Yoga Project! For more information, visit Amy’s website.
Pres. Mika thanks guest speaker Kristy Dougherty of Sickles Market
They Have So Much Stuff, it’s Sickles!
On Friday, January 24th, the Club heard a presentation from Kristy Dougherty of Sickles Market in Rumson. Since 1908, Sickles Market, a four generation family owned specialty food and gift store, has been a favorite destination for the best produce, plants, gourmet foods, garden accessories and gifts at the Jersey Shore.
Now, according to Ms. Daugherty, the market offers tours to area points of interest. The next tour, the Longwood Gardens Orchid Extravaganza, will be held on Friday, February 28th. Tickets are $149 per person and include a Sickles’ gourmet food tasting. For more information email Kristy at kdougherty@sicklesmarket.com
President Mika thanking Sue Patterson of Ultrasonic Mobile Cleaning
The meeting was called to order by President Mika Hon. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Bill Spence delivered the Invocation. President Mika welcomed our guest and speaker, Sue Patterson.
President Mika made the following announcements:
- The District 7500 Mid-Year Assembly will be held on January 27th at La Bove Grande Restaurant in Lakehurst, NJ. There will be a Rotary Exchange that will begin at 4:45pm followed by a cocktail hour from 5:00-6:00pm and Dinner at 6:00pm. It will be a fun event that will also include ideas to stimulate membership and fundraising among other things. The cost is only $15 which includes the workshop as well as the buffet dinner. You can register with Past District Governor Boots White at kwboots@aol.com or 609.267.3349.
- There will be a Rotary Photo Contest and photos are due on March 1st. The photos should include sharing what we do as Rotarians.
- President Mika read a thank you letter from Monmouth University for the recent support from the club towards the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Roger said the goal is to get the fund to $25,000 so it can be self-sustaining and it is currently up to $13,000. Roger thanked the Club members for all their support.
- President Mika announced an “Inter-City” Rotary Club meeting that will include the Clubs of Red Bank and Asbury Park as well as Long Branch to be held on Saturday, March 1st. The last week of February we will not have our regular Friday meeting. Instead Lex Tucci has found us an amazing speaker who we will meet with Saturday morning at the Sheraton at Eatontown. Joe Tordello will be having breakfast with us sharing his experiences as a US Diplomat in the Middle East and the Philippines. Joe has met with Rotary Clubs in the Middle East and should be a very entertaining speaker. It is mandatory that we register in advance for this event so the Sheraton can accommodate us. Guests are welcome and our surrounding clubs have been invited as well. Breakfast will be $25 per person. Please go to rclb.bigcartel.com to register.
- Brian Berry discussed the Annual Rotary Lombardi Dinner to be held March 6th at the Eatontown Sheraton. The Lombardi Dinner recognizes the achievement of shore area high school football lineman and benefits the American Cancer Society as well as area Rotary Clubs. Brian urged all to attend a great night and to sell raffle tickets to help with proceeds for the event.
Speaker
President Mika introduced our guest speaker, Sue Patterson from Ultrasonic Mobile Cleaning. Sue described the ultrasonic cleaning method that uses soundwaves produced at frequencies higher than our ears can perceive. As the soundwaves move through liquid they create compression waves that “tear” the liquid apart, leaving behind many millions of microscopic voids or partial vacuum bubbles. (The technical name for this is cavitation). These small bubbles expand and eventually implode when they strike and object, and this energy dislodges contaminants even from intricately shaped surfaces. Ultrasonics can be used for homes, office buildings, schools, restaurants, hotels, medical centers and much more.
The meeting was called to order by President Mika Hon. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. President Mika welcomed our guests and our speakers, Kate Stevens and Meghan from Ocean Place Resort & Spa.
President Mika made the following announcements:
- District Governor Sheila has asked for nominations for District Governor 2016-2017. Deadline to receive the nominations need to be in by January 15th.
- We are trying to lock in a date for our annual installation dinner President-Elect Brian Berry will become the next President of the Club. The dinner will be held at McLoone’s at Pier Village and we are targeting June 19th.
- March 6th is the Lombardi Awards Dinner where local high school football players will be recognized. We will be raising money by selling 50/50’s and there are sponsorships available. President Mika asked for participation from the Club.
- A report was provided on the two food drives held recently by the Club. President Mika told the group that about 600 families were provided with baskets of food over the course of the Thanksgiving and December Holiday food drives.
- President Mika presented a check of $4400 to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Karen’s daughter, Joyce Dejohn, accepted the check and thanked the Club for all their efforts. The money was raised at the Rotary Art Show held last spring. Joyce said, the Fund “will create a legacy to help other passionate special education teachers” The Fund was established through Monmouth University.
- President Mika also presented a check to Kick Cancer Overboard. Long Branch Rotarian, Ted Friedli accepted the check of $500 for the organization. Ted thanked the Club for their efforts and announced that “100% of the contributions go to the people who have been affected by cancer”. To date, the organization has given away 83 cruises to individuals and their families afflicted by cancer.
- President Mika announced there will be no meeting held next Friday, December 27th.
- Lex Tucci announced that there will be an Intercity Rotary Brunch Meeting held on March 1st at 10:00am at the Eatontown Sheraton. The meeting will feature a speaker, Joseph Tordella, who is a graduate of Shore Regional High School who went on to hold post throughout the Middle East and Asia with the State Department. The Intercity meeting will include the Rotary Clubs of Long Branch, Red Bank, and Asbury Park.
Kate Stevens, Sales Manager & Megan Keefe, Executive Meeting Manager of Ocean Place Resort & Spa
Speaker
President Mika introduced our guest speakers, Kate Stevens and Meghan from the Ocean Place Resort & Spa. Kate has been at the Ocean Place for 1 ½ years with her main responsibilities being sales and promoting the Ocean Place with Associations and non-profit organizations. Meghan has focused her efforts on the local and regional, corporation and business world. The two spoke about the role the Ocean Place played in housing many of the displaced residents in the area as well as the renovations Ocean Place has undertaken in the last year. As you may have noticed the Ocean Place has taken advantage of its location on the ocean to have a more “coastal” feel. Renovations are underway as they redesign the rooms and they plan to be completed by April, 2014. Additionally, the Ocean Place has begun work December 1st on a second phase of renovations that will include changes to the lobby, dining area, indoor/outdoor pool that will lead out to the Tiki Bar.
Rotarians and volunteers collecting food at ShopRite
The meeting was called to order by President Mika Hon. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. President Mika welcomed the visiting Rotarians Diane Rotondelli (our guest speaker) and David Pfaff, MD (Staten Island.
President Mika made the following announcements:
- The food drive will be held Saturday and Sunday (Nov. 23rd and 24th) so make sure you know your time slot that you have signed up to participate.
- Keep selling your raffle tickets. The revenue received from the sale of the tickets will go towards the purchase of a shelterbox for the Phillipines. The box has already been purchased by our Club and has been received. The proceeds from the raffle will be replenish those funds that have been expended.
- The annual Rotary Club of Long Branch Holiday Party will be held on December 12th beginning at 6:00pm at Johnny Piancones. The cost will be $25 each and please RSVP.
- March 6th is the Lombardi Dinner.
Pres. Mika thanking Diane Rotondelli
President Mika introduced our guest speaker, Diane Rotondelli. Diane is a member of the Brick Club and she came to the meeting to promote the District 7500 Conference. The Conference is being held May 2nd – 4th in Point Pleasant. They decided to have the conference locally because of the need to give back to the area after the affects of Sandy. The Conference will be a la carte, meaning you can attend only those events that you wish. There will be Plenary sessions on Friday and Saturday along with wine tasting, Friday night murder/mystery, Rotary sing-off, guest speakers from around the world, and a Sunday run/walk to raise funds for polio plus.
Pres. Mika welcomed Guest Speaker Paul Brown, Pres. of Monmouth University.
Announcements:
· Please sign up for Holiday Food Drive at Shoprite on 11/23 & 11/24
· 6 weeks left to sell raffle tickets
· Power washing and painting Ronald McDonald House has been delayed until spring. Possibly make it a fundraiser also ie.: sell refreshments and 50/50 tickets.
· Holiday part will be the 2nd week in December at Piancone’s
· Happy Hour tonight – 1st Friday of November
Paul Dement introduced Paul Brown, 8th President of Monmouth University from Lehigh where he was Dean of College of Business & Economics.
Dr. Paul Brown, President of Monmouth University, speaks to our Club
Dr.Paul Brown Comes to Rotary
The place “Where Leaders Look Forward” has a new leader. His name is Dr. Paul Brown and as of August 1st of this year, he became the 8th President in the history of Monmouth University.
On Friday of last week Dr. Brown graciously spoke to our club about his background, the state of Monmouth U and his newly found love of our community.
“I was the Dean of the Business College at Lehigh University, “ said Dr. Brown, “and I thought that was going to be where I finished my career. But one visit to this beautiful University, rich in its history and tradition, and this wonderful community and I had to reconsider.”
In his previous role, Dr. Brown served as dean of the College of Business and Economics at Lehigh University from 2007 to 2013. Under Dr. Brown's leadership, the College of Business and Economics completed a transformative and wide-sweeping Strategic Plan. Dr. Brown also managed historically high levels of enrollment in both undergraduate and graduate programs and recruited and hired faculty at an unprecedented pace. During his time at Lehigh, he raised over $40 million in unrestricted funds and for endowed faculty chairs.
Now he’s clearly focused on his new job at Monmouth. “We’re geared towards creating great student experiences,” said Dr. Brown. He indicated one of the initiatives would be to attract students from other areas of the country. “Right now 75% of our student population is from New Jersey. Down from 80% - that’s good, but we need to do better.”
When asked how that could be achieved, Dr. Brown remarked: “I think first by promoting our strengths: programs like Marine & Biology studies for example. Second, we need to continue to engage high school counselors as they play a very important role in the student’s decision-making process. Third is the continued growth of our Division I Sports Programs and finally is the promotion of our ancillary activities and our community.”
There’s no doubt that Monmouth University has undergone an amazing transformation over the past 10 – 15 years. Under Dr. Brown’s Leadership, it’s clear that the best days are still ahead.
Ted Friedli, long time Rotarian and owner of Excel Travel
SPOTLIGHT ON A ROTARIAN – Ted Friedli
A new feature of Rotary Round Up will be to introduce some of our members in a more candid way.
Ted Friedli joined the Long Branch Rotary Club 13 years ago, has served on the board, received the Paul Harris award and is our Program Chairman.
So if you would like to do a presentation to our club or know of somebody else who has something interesting to say, please have him/her contact Ted.
Joanna (his wife) and Ted have owned Excel Travel (Atlantic Ave, Long Branch) for 20 years, and with a great team of experienced vacation planners, still enjoy making people's dreams come true, as if it was their first day.
Excel Travel's slogan is "Make Us Happy - Go Away", but Ted is quick to add that they have no interest in going away (i.e. retiring) any time soon (it's just too much fun) and is committed to staying in Long Branch for a long, long time ("we just raised our house, after suffering major damage in Superstorm Sandy"). You will find 4 flags on their flag pole. On top, of course, the star spangled banner, then the Swiss flag for Ted who came over from Switzerland in his 20s, the Greek Flag for Joanna (whose grandparents immigrated from there), and the Chinese flag for their daughter Jordana (who they adopted from China).
True to Rotary Spirit, Ted founded a not-for-profit organization three years ago, called Kick Cancer Overboard, with the mission to give away free cruises to people affected by Cancer. So, when the recipients are on the ship, they don't have to worry about how to pay for their next medical bill, but their main concern is whether to play bingo, get a massage or sing karaoke all night long (loud and off-key, nobody cares, as long as everybody has a great time. In these 3 short years, Kick Cancer Overboard (thanks to the support of many Rotarians) has been able to give away 80 free cruises! You may contact Ted at ted@exceltravel.com.
Become a Thousand-aire!
Win The Long Branch Rotary Club 50/50 Raffle!
There’s still time to get your Raffle Ticket for the big 50/50 drawing this year. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased from any club member. The drawing is December 13th and winners need not be present. Three chances to win with a 1st prize of $2500. It’s not a bad return for a $10 dollar ticket so get yours today. A portion of the proceeds will go to purchase of a Shelter Box for disaster relief.
Each green ShelterBox is tailored to a disaster but typically contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items.
Rotary Club Annual Food Drive
The Club Food Drive is underway once again this year and the less fortunate of our area need our support. Last year the food drive became one of the most important events in the history of our Club. We collected and delivered over 20,000 pounds of food to the pantries and churches of Long Branch and West Long Branch. Please drop off non-perishable and canned goods to any one of the drop off places listed here. Or stop by The Rotary Club table in front of Shop Rite on November 23rd or 24th.
You can also donate to the food drive online at: http://rclb.bigcartel.com
Food Drive Drop Off Locations:
• NJ Ink Shop - 177 Locust Ave West Long Branch
• Wells Fargo – 555 Ocean Blvd West End
• Atlantic Security – 44 Oceanport Ave West Long Branch
• Central Jersey Bank - 444 Ocean Blvd Ursula Plaza Long Branch
• Monmouth Medical Center – Long Branch
• Tucci Hot & Crupi PC – 464 Broadway Long Branch
• Investors Bank -169 Broadway Long Branch
• Greater Long Branch Chamber – 228 Broadway Long Branch
Pres. Mika welcomed guests: Guest speaker Bob Wozmak, V.P. of Retail at the Applied Companies of Pier Village, District 7500 Governor Elect Harriet Primack from the Red Bank Rotary Club.
Announcements:
· Sell Raffle tickets
· Dues – starting next year invoices will go out by 5/31 and due by 7/31. Penalties will be incurred after that.
· Kris Mistretta will be the Lombardi Dinner representative.
· Our column in the Link “Rotary Roundup” is now also a blog.
· Congratulations to Al Peskoe for receiving Award from Long Branch Public Library.
· Harriet Primack announced the annual Foundation Dinner will be at the Clarion Hotel in Toms River
· Jack Kearns announced fundraiser for the LB Concordance, a p;ay at the NJ Rep Theater on 11/14/13. $75 per person in theater and $50 per person in lobby watching play on screen.
Bill Boglioli won the 50/50
THE MAN AT PIER VILLAGE: Vice President of Retail for Applied Development Mr. Bob Wozmak, is thanked by Club President Mika Hon for his presentation.
Pier Village is About to Get “Lucky”.
The City of Long Branch has long been a summer destination for travelers seeking a vacation of sun, surf and sand. However in recent years the attraction to our city hasn’t been about the old but more about the new – as in the new restaurants, shops, hotels they have popped up all over town. And no destination symbolizes the “new” of Long Branch then Pier Village.
This past Friday, Bob Wozmak, the Vice President of Retail at The Applied Companies spoke to the Rotary Club at our weekly meeting about the plans for “Phase III” of the upscale shopping, dining and living community here on our shore.
“Phase III will include 43,000 sq. ft. of retail and we prefer to invite and engage local retailers for the space as has been our practice” said Wozmak.
The crown jewel of Phase III will be the 68- room boutique hotel, “The Lucky.” More in the style of The Bungalow Hotel in its size and upscale style, The Lucky Hotel will be built right on the boardwalk. The hotel will also overlook a new carousel that will be the centerpiece of the new expansion. Mr. Wozmak also mentioned that the carousel is set to be debuted this December in the main square.
The new Phase, which will run South to Morris Avenue, will also feature 240 new residential units. Groundbreaking on the expansive project is set to begin in January 2014. For more information on Pier Village, visit them on the web at: http://www.piervillage.com
Club Food Drive for the Holidays
The annual Club Food Drive continues this month and now is the time of year when the hungry needs help the most. Club members will be out front of Shop Rite, West Long Branch on November 23rd and 24th. Please stop by the table with non perishable goods so we can help distribute it to those in need. You may also donate to our food drive online by visiting http://rclb.bigcartel.com
Monmouth Beach Bash
The R.L. Keller Memorial Music Series is proud to present an evening with “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces” on Saturday November 16th from 6pm – 10pm at the Precious Blood Parish Center on Riverdale Ave. Tickets are only $25 each and includes a full bbq menu, light refreshments and more. For tickets and more information call: 732-229-4527.
Win The Long Branch Rotary Club 50/50 Raffle!
There’s still time to get your Raffle Ticket for the big 50/50 drawing this year. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased from any club member. The drawing is December 13th and winners need not be present. Three chances to win with a 1st prize of $2500. It’s not a bad return for a $10 dollar ticket so get yours today. A portion of the proceeds will go to purchase of a Shelter Box for disaster relief.
Each green ShelterBox is tailored to a disaster but typically contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items.
WELCOME BARB! Our newest member Barb Youchah is proudly welcomed into our Club by Club President Mika Hon.
The Rotary Club of Long Branch is proud to welcome our newest member into the club, Ms. Barb Youchah, Internet Marketing and Corporate Sales Manager for the Sheraton of Eatontown. Barb is not only involved in the business community, but is also on the board of the Eastern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce and also is Chairperson of the marketing committee. She’s also a Long Branch native who cares a lot about her community. We welcome Barb!
Pres. Mika presenting Patti with a plaque to honor her years of support for this organization
Al Peskoe lead the Pledge of Allegiance
Mike Hayes gave the Invocation
Pres. Mika Hon welcomed members and guest speaker Patti Booth O’Neill
The Link between you and the city of Long Branch? It’s…The Link!
There are certain things one can count on living in Long Branch. The smell of the salt air when the wind blows out of the East, scads of visitors to our city in the summertime; and of course, The Link News.
For the past 13 years, Long Branch area residents and business owners have to come to be able to rely on the Link News for timely information on what’s happening here in our city. More importantly, The Link writes about
the heart and soul of Long Branch: It’s people.
Whether it is a birthday, an anniversary, a high school sporting event, a memorial service, a charity event or Hurricane Sandy, chances are The Link News will be there to write about it, photograph it and bring it each week to the residents of Long Branch.
On Friday our Club was treated to a Long Branch themed presentation from the publisher of the Link News, Patty Booth O’Neil.
“We come each Monday and hope that the lead story isn’t there yet.” said Ms. O’Neil. “We hope that the story comes together during the week that our readers will find compelling.”
It all started back in 2001 for Patty and The Link. Her brother Mike Booth had just sold the Atlanticville to Greater Media and Patty felt that there was a void in terms of real local news coverage and started The Link. A subsequent editorial that ran in the Atlanticville presumptuously boasted: “The Link will be out of business by Valentines Day”. “They didn’t say which Valentines Day”, remarked Patty, “obviously because we are still here.”
It should come as no surprise to anyone who knows Patty that the Link has been as successful as it has, because she has been a successful businesswoman in Long Branch for over three decades.
Patty opened the Atlantic Karate Academy in Long Branch in the early 1980s. She was a member of the USA Karate team and traveled all over the world, where she retired from competition first in the United States and second in the World. She eventually closed her karate school because the success of the newspaper business began to take up more and more of her time.
Now, thanks to her efforts and those of her hard working team, The LInk News is a household name, covering Long Branch, Monmouth Beach, West Long Branch, Oceanport, Ocean Township, Eatontown and Sea Bright. "I have been fortunate enough to love every endeavor I've tried," O'Neill said. "I have great people working for me making The LINK a successful operation."
The people of Long Branch could not agree more.
Rotary Club Annual Food Drive
The Club Food Drive is underway once again this year and the less fortunate of our area need our support. Last year the food drive became one of the most important events in the history of our Club. We collected and delivered over 20,000 pounds of food to the pantries and churches of Long Branch and West Long Branch. Please drop off non-perishable and canned goods to any one of the drop off places listed here. Or stop by The Rotary Club table in front of Shop Rite on November 23rd or 24th.
Food Drive Drop Off Locations:
• NJ Ink Shop - 177 Locust Ave West Long Branch
• Wells Fargo – 555 Ocean Blvd West End
• Atlantic Security – 44 Oceanport Ave West Long Branch
• Central Jersey Bank - 444 Ocean Blvd Ursula Plaza Long Branch
• Monmouth Medical Center – Long Branch
• Tucci Hot & Crupi PC – 464 Broadway Long Branch
• Investors Bank -169 Broadway Long Branch
• Greater Long Branch Chamber – 228 Broadway Long Branch
There’s still time to get your Raffle Ticket for the big 50/50 drawing this year. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased from any club member. The drawing is December 13th and winners need not be present. Three chances to win with a 1st prize of $2500. It’s not a bad return for a $10 dollar ticket so get yours today. A portion of the proceeds will go to purchase of a Shelter Box for disaster relief.
Each green ShelterBox is tailored to a disaster but typically contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items.
Until We Meet Again
Interested in finding out about what’s going on at Pier Village? Then attend our Friday October 25th meeting at the beautiful Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant in Long Branch. Our special guest speaker will be Mr. Robert Wozmak, General Manager of Pier Village.
Frank Torchia won the 50/50 and pulled the Joker. Congratulations Frank.
The meeting was called to order by President-elect Brian Berry. Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance and Paul Peacock delivered the Invocation. Brian welcomed the guests: Esther Cohen (Cedar & Beaches) was a guest of Gordon Heggie and Barbara Youcah (Eatontown Sheraton) was a guest of Mike Ciavalino.
President Elect Brian made the following announcements:
- Patty O’Neill from the Link will be our speaker next week.
- We mentioned to the Ronald McDonald House that the Club would be willing offer assistance on any project need completed. They recently replied that they are looking for help in painting the stucco on the exterior of the building. We will arrange for a day where rotarians donate our time. Stay tuned…..
- Brian mentioned that we need a representative from the Club to serve on the Lombardi dinner committee. Brian has served in this capacity for number of years and he said they meet once a month until the dinner which is usually held in February/March time frame. Our Club receives funding based on our participation.
- Fellow Club member, Lt. Col. Spence, will be running a marathon in support of Ficher House. The Fisher House Foundation is best known for the network of comfort homes built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers nationwide and in Europe. Fisher Houses are beautiful homes, donated to the military and Department of Veterans Affairs. These homes enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time - during the hospitalization for a combat injury, illness or disease. Please consider helping Lt. Col. Spence in his cause and best of luck on the Marathon!
- The Club’s 50/50 will be drawn on December 13th so continue selling those tickets!
- There are a few members that have not paid their dues. Please make sure you are up-to-date.
- The Clean Ocean Action annual fall beach sweep will be held on October 19th beginning at 9:00am at Pier Village. We are hoping to have a team of Rotarians there to help.
Pres. Mika introduced guests: speakers Dr. Meg Fisher & Dr. Neelam Sell from Monmouth Medical Center speaking on Autism programs at MMC; Tom Gilmour from the Asbury Club; Barb Youchah, guest of Mike Ciavolino; Frank Crupi and Andrew Piniak, guests of Lex Tucci
DOCTORS IN THE HOUSE: Dr. Neelam Sell (left) and Dr. Meg Fischer (right) receive the thanks for their excellent presentation from Club President Mika Hon.
The Unterberg Children’s Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center offers unrivaled services for children and families in our area.
Despite the occasional hurricane, living at the Jersey Shore has many blessings for all of us.
One of the greatest blessings of all is to have The Unterberg Children’s Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center right here in Long Branch. Taking a child to the hospital for any reason can be a nightmare for parents and caregivers. But families can also take comfort in having a state-of-the-art world-class hospital for children so close to home should they need care.
In an informative presentation, Dr Meg Fisher, Medical Director, and Dr. Neelam Sell, a specialist in Pediatric Developmental Behavior, spoke to our Club at last Friday’s meeting about the Hospital and its services.
“At The Underberg Childrens Hospital we feel that family-centered health is the only way to take care of patients.” said Dr. Fisher. “Who better than the child's parents to know the child? Illness and success in dealing with it must include family, including siblings.”
As a highly regarded pediatrician amongst her peers nation-wide and current Chair of the Executive Committee of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Section of Infectious Diseases and twice a member of the Committee of Infectious Diseases (Red Book Committee), Dr. Fisher helps establish national guidelines and standards for quality health care for children and adolescents. This quality of care is evident in The Children’s Hospital standing as a member of the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI), an organization that serves as a collective voice for health systems devoted to the health and well-being of children, no matter how sick or poor.
Dr. Fisher was recently named as a New Jersey “Top Doc” in the area of Pediatric Infectious Diseases.
Dr Sell also spoke to the club about her area of expertise, developmental and behavioral pediatrics and Autism Spectrum disorders as part of the Pediatric Neurology and Pediatric Developmental Behavioral Medicine team at the Hospital.
“The most important thing a parent can have is an official diagnosis as to whether or not their child is on the Autism Spectrum,” said Dr. Sell. “In this way, their family can begin the path of care, which may include behavioral therapy and other therapies, education and resources specific to their child’s needs.”
In January 2006, Monmouth Medical Center was licensed by New Jersey as an official children’s hospital for Monmouth and Ocean counties. This meant not a new building, but a new recognition of a long-demonstrated strength. More than four decades ago, Monmouth established a pattern of exceptional pediatric health care, becoming the first hospital in New Jersey to open a Level III neonatal intensive care unit.
Today that pattern continues as Monmouth offers the community the renowned medical expertise in the care of children that only a leading academic medical center can provide, with 140 pediatric specialists in 26 fields of medicine. Monmouth Medical Center has been affiliated with Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia since 1969, and has grown today to be Drexel’s largest major academic medical affiliate in New Jersey.
Rotary 50-50 Raffle Tickets: Get yours Today!
It’s the Club first ever 50-50 raffle so get your tickets while they last! Their only $10 bucks and first prize is $2500! There will also be 2nd and 3rd prizes also so don’t miss out. The drawing is December 13 at the Club’s weekly meeting and winners need not be present. See any Club member for your ticket and chance to win. A portion of the proceeds of the raffle will go towards the purchase of a Shelter Box for disaster relief.
Each green ShelterBox is tailored to a disaster but typically contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items.
Long Branch Public Library Champions Dinner
This year’s Library Champion’s Diner honors 5 outstanding individuals for their efforts in supporting and advocating for the Library including our own Club Member, Al Peskoe. Congratulations Al! Other honorees are Dr. Mary Jane Celli, Ms. Victoria Cattelona, Ms. Ruchi Asthana and Ms. Shirley Goldenberg. The date of the dinner is Thursday, October 24th at 6pm at Branches Catering, 123 Monmouth Rd in West Long Branch. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased by contacting Kate Angelo at the Library at 732-222-3900.
A Correction from Last Week’s Column
Last week we incorrectly spelled the name of the Brazilian city where our newest member, Adalberto Demelo hails from. It is spelled “Tiros” but pronounced “Chiros.” Rotary Round Up regrets the error and we wanted to take a moment to correct it.
Pres. Mika welcomed the guests: Past Dist. Gov. Boots White, Dist. Gov. Sheila Vinton, Past RI President Wilf Wilkinson, Dist. Gov. Elect Harriet Primack, Denise Benbrook from the Red Bank Club, Mike Ciavolino's guest Barb Youchah.
District Governor Sheila Vinton introduced Past RI President Wilf Wilkerson.
L-R Past District Governor Boots White, Club Pres. Mika Hon, District Governor Sheila Vinton, Past RI President Wilf Wilkerson,
Past District Governor Joan Vas, District Governor Elect Harriet Primack
Rotary International dignitaries visit and
thank the Rotary Club of Long Branch.
On Friday September 27th, the Rotary Club of Long Branch had the honor of hosting several International and Regional Rotary officials at their weekly meeting. The group of Rotary dignitaries were on hand to visit the damaged areas of Union Beach and other Shore areas hit hard by Hurricane Sandy last Fall. They also thanked our Club for it’s good work in and around our area.
“I applaud your support last year of Habitat for Humanity” said former Rotary International President Wilf Wilkerson, “and I encourage you to continue in these efforts. These are exactly the type of projects that embody the spirit of Rotarians all of over the world. They are also the type of projects which will draw more members to your Club. Thank you for all of your hardworking, heartfelt efforts.”
Mr. Wilkerson was referring to the Habitat for Humanity Music Benefit that our club hosted in December of 2012 at Jack’s here in Long Branch. The proceeds of that event went to Habitat for Humanity and their efforts to rebuild and repair homes along the Shore.
A packed luncheon at Rooney’s of club members and honored guests welcomed the traveling group of officials which included the aforementioned Wilf Wilkerson, President of Rotary International in 2007-08. A Rotarian since 1962, Mr. Wilkerson’s career Rotary included a PolioPlus national advocacy adviser and a member at large of the PolioPlus Partners Task Force. Previously, he has served RI as district governor, International Assembly group discussion leader, consultative group member, committee member and chair, task force member, Foundation trustee, director, and vice president. Most recently, he was chair of the 2005 Chicago Convention Committee and vice chair of RI's Afghan refugee relief project.
Other Rotary officials attending our meeting included former District Governor Boots White, current District Governor Sheila Vinton, Past District Governor Joan Vas, and District Gov. Elect Harriet Primack.
District Governor Sheila Vinton inducting Adalberto Demelo into the Rotary Club of Long Branch
Our Club welcomes our newest member Adalberto Demelo
The Rotary Club of Long Branch is growing with new members seemingly every week. This week, our Club proudly welcomed Aldeberto Demelo as its newest member. Aldeberto and his family have a long and rich tradition of service to Rotary in his native town of Chiros, Brazil.
His father was a member of the Chiros Club as was Aldeberto after him. Their efforts in Chiros included the planning and fundraising for a new school designed specifically for special needs children. Welcome Aldeberto!
We still continue to ask for your thoughts, your prayers, your assistance and your donations to the family of little Molly Richards, daughter of one of our own Rotarians and owner of New Life Chiropractic here in Long Branch, Dr. Tyler Richards.
As previously mentioned in this column, Tyler’s daughter, two-year-old Molly Richards, has recently been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Ann, Tyler, Emily, and Molly have traveled from New Jersey to Memphis, TN to participate in an experimental treatment at St. Jude's Children's Hospital. After they get set up at the Ronald McDonald house, Ann will stay with Molly while Tyler and Emily return to NJ to start school.
Many people are taking turns making dinners. Many are arranging play dates with Emily.
Another thing everyone can do is chip in to help with some of the expenses that the family will incur.
There is a PayPal site set up at http://tinyurl.com/op278vn
Donations to this page will put money directly into the family's account so they can use it for whatever they need such as airline tickets for family visits to Memphis, activities for the kids to do, and so on.
Please help the Richards family at all if you can at this time. Tell your friends or simply visit the PayPal link above. It will take credit cards safely and securely and the family will receive a notification directly and confidentially -- nobody else will see it.
Most importantly, prayer can do miraculous things. Please pray for Tyler, Ann, Emily and for a recovery for little Molly.
Rotary Club of Long Branch announces 50-50 raffle
The Rotary Club of Long Branch has announced a 50-50 raffle. Tickets are only $10 a piece and 1st 2nd and 3rd prizes will be awarded. A portion of the proceeds of the raffle will go towards the purchase of a Shelter Box for disaster relief.
Each green ShelterBox is tailored to a disaster but typically contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items. It’s an important piece of equipment for Disaster victims so if you see a Rotarian selling a raffle ticket, please spend the $10 bucks. You could win up to several thousand dollars and help a family in dire straights somewhere around the world.
Our Next Club Meeting: Dr. Meg Fischer
The Next meeting of our Club will be Friday, October 4th at the beautiful Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant in Long Branch. Our speaker will be Dr. Meg Fischer, the head of Autism programs at Monmouth Medical Center.
Pres. Mika greeted guests: Michelle Mendes, American Heart Association; John Amato, Atlantic Fire & security; and Gary Siciliano from the Asbury Park Rotary.
MUG IT OUT: Michelle Mendes, Special Events Manager Central New Jersey Chapter of the American Heart Association accepts thanks from Club President, Mika Hon.
Putting Their “Hearts” Into Saving Lives
The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest, largest voluntary organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Founded by six cardiologists in 1924, the AHA now includes more than 22.5 million volunteers and supporters, working tirelessly to eliminate these diseases. In addition, the AHA funds innovative research, fights for stronger public health policies and provides lifesaving tools and information to save and improve lives.
On Friday at our last meeting, the Club heard an informative presentation from the Special Events Manager of the NJ Chapter of the AHA, Michelle Mendes.
Michelle spoke about the Mission of the American Heart Association which is to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. To that end, the organization does several fund and awareness raising activities including “Lunch And Learns” in area companies and encouraging employers to be “fit friendly.”
The signature event of the American Heart Association is the Heart Walk. The next Heart Walk will be Sunday, November 3, 2013 in Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan. For more information on becoming a sponsor of the Heart Walk or participating, contact Michelle at michelle.mendes@heart.org
1st Annual Karen Hansen Memorial Dinner
On Friday September 27th the family of Karen Hansen will host the 1st annual Karen Hansen Memorial Dinner at Bahrs Landing in the Highlands. The evening will be an “Octoberfest” styled event with authentic German fare. Tickets are $50 per person and include Beer and Wine, a 50/50 and chance drawings.
Proceeds from the evening will go to the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Karen Hansen taught in the Long Branch School System for more than 25 years. Countless children needing special attention in their education are now productive adults due to the caring efforts provided by Karen and the many Special Education Professionals in our schools.
Karen’s one wish was to be able to help those aspiring to enter this rewarding field. Her family has established the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund in her honor and memory. Individuals who have an interest in pursing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. For tickets and more information to the Octoberfest Dinner, contact Roger Hansen at 732-539-8200.
Madagascar 3 for FREE, Music and MORE at
West End Park on September 20th
On Friday September 20th, the Jersey Shore Autism Foundation invites you to join them for their FREE showing of Madagascar 3 under the stars in West End Park. The movie will be shown on giant 16’ movie screen starting at 7:45pm.
The Movie will be preceded by set of music from the legendary area trio “Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces” beginning at 6pm. The family friendly evening will also feature snacks, soft drinks, glow sticks and t-shirts for sale from area vendors. The evening is sponsored in part by My Kitchen Witch Café in Monmouth Beach (http://www.mykitchenwitch.com)
Join Kick Cancer Overboard again this year for the Excel Travel Ocean Avenue Mile on Saturday, September 14th, 2013.
It’s a flat, fast, certified mile road race course, held right here on the promenade in Long Branch (from Charlie's to the Ocean Place Hotel).
Last year’s event was extremely successful and we hope even more of you come out to run this year. Not only did it help to raise awareness and money for Kick Cancer Overboard, but it brought the community together for a healthy and fun day of racing. The KCO run starts at 8:55am. ANYBODY can run/walk/crawl a mile for a great cause! And everybody will get a KCO t-shirt and bracelet. See you Saturday. Bring your friends and family! Excel Travel Ocean Avenue Mile race has provided Kick Cancer Overboard runners with a discount code.
Don’t forget to use KCO13 (to qualify for the special $15 registration fee) when registering at www.oceanavenuemile.com. Any questions? Please email kickit@kickcanceroverboard.org
PRAYERS FOR THE RICHARDS FAMILY: The Richards Family: Dr. Tyler Richards, Emily, Molly and Ann Richards
Prayers for Molly Richards
Dr. Tyler Richards is the owner of New Life Chiropractic on 2nd Avenue here in Long Branch. He is also a long time active Rotarian and on the board of Habitat for Humanity. Through his business and his charitable and community endeavors, Tyler spends much of his life giving back to the community and the people who live here.
Now, he and his family need all of our help more than ever.
Tyler’s daughter, two-year-old Molly Richards, has recently been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Ann, Tyler, Emily, and Molly have traveled from New Jersey to Memphis, TN to participate in an experimental treatment at St. Jude's Children's Hospital. After they get set up at the Ronald McDonald house, Ann will stay with Molly while Tyler and Emily return to NJ to start school.
Many of us have been wondering what we can do to help. Many are taking turns making dinners. Many are arranging play dates with Emily. It is incredibly important that we continue to do this as long as the family needs our support.
Another thing everyone can do is chip in to help with some of the expenses that the family will incur.
Donations to this page will put money directly into the family's account so they can use it for whatever they need such as airline tickets for family visits to Memphis, activities for the kids to do, and so on.
Please help the Richards family at all if you can at this time. Tell your friends or simply visit the PayPal link above. It will take credit cards safely and securely and the family will receive a notification directly and confidentially -- nobody else will see it.
Most importantly, prayer can do miraculous things. Please pray for Tyler, Ann, Emily and for a recovery for little Molly.
RYLA participants Benjamin Rivera, Long Branch HS and Lee Manalang, Shore Regional HS
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Al Peskoe.
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation.
President Mika welcomed guests: Alberto Demelo, Nicole Walstein, Lee Manalang, Ben Rivera, Lee Rubin
President Mika introduced Nicole Walstein, District 7500 E-club treasurer, former RYLA graduate and current RYLA representative.
Nicole introduced students that participated in RYLA this year, Lee Manalang from Shore Regional High School and Benjamin Rivera from Long Branch High School. Both students spoke of the confidence, personal responsibility, and sense of team that was enhanced by participating in RYLA. They also spoke of the importance of overcoming whatever is holding you back whether it’s procrastination, laziness, etc.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership development program run by Rotary. While participants can be any age, most events focus on secondary school students, university students, or young professionals. RYLA events are typically 3–10 days long and include presentations, activities, and workshops that cover a variety of topics, including:
· Leadership fundamentals and ethics
· Communication skills
· Problem solving and conflict management
· Community and global citizenship
Ted Friedli introduced guest speaker Lee Rubin.
Lee was a hometown star, a three-sport student-athlete who, through hard work, determination, and faith, became a three-year starter and defensive captain for Penn State’s Football team.
He is now a professional speaker and author of the book "WIN", addressing and inspiring audiences across the country, through keynote addresses, corporate training sessions, student leadership conferences, awards ceremonies and other events, with his powerful, insightful and relatable messages of leadership development and personal growth.
Joe Mamora, Interfaith Neighbors being thanked by Pres. Mika Hon
Pledge: Kris Mistretta
Invocation: Len Kiczek
Guests: Joe Marmora
Mika took the podium and welcomed our guest speaker Joe Marmora from Interfaith Neighbors. He then went on to discuss some Rotary District 7500 events that are coming up.
The first event is the First Annual Rotary Family Picnic. It takes place August 18th at Oak Tree Lodge in Wall. It's a family friendly all you can eat and drink event from 1-6pm. The price is $35 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. The amount of food, games and activities that are going to be there are too extensive to list. This is a wonderful way to promote fun and fellowship in the district and to involve your family and friends.
Next Mika spoke about the district 7500's inaugural fellowship event, a wine appreciation night at Tipperary Pub in Lakehurst. The event is September 27th from 6-10pm and is $30 a person. Mika mentioned Roger Hansen's idea of starting another fellowship event to honor craft beers.
Joe Marmora took the podium next and showed a video presentation that gave a wonderful summary of some the spectacular philanthropic projects that Interfaith Neighbors from Asbury Park is involved in. Their mission is: "as stated in our By-Laws, is to provide rental subsidy to underprivileged persons; to provide meals either in a congregate setting or delivered to the homes of people who are either elderly poor (senior citizen), infirm or seriously ill persons or those who are classified as impoverished; to encourage support and undertake construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing units and other facilities for underprivileged and homeless persons with low incomes and generally to support the needs of underprivileged persons."
Interfaith Neighbors also started Kula Cafe where people can learn job skils to get an edge when looking for employment in the restaurant field. Between federal and local grants, private and corporate donations, and fund raising Interfaith is able to raise roughly a 4 million dollars to help community members in need of food, housing, education, and transportation. Truly a wonderful organization.
The members and guests of the Rotary Club of Long Branch were then blessed with the sweet melodic voice of Roger Hansen as he reminded us to sell tickets to our annual Clambake. The clambake is August 15th at The Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club. Tickets can be purchesed at rclb.bigcartel.com and event details on our facebook page.
Joe Stringfellow, Willingboro club & Pres. Elect Brian Berry
Al Peskoe - pledge
Paul Dement - invocation
Guests:
Joe Stringfellow -Willingboro
Denise Benbrook - Red Bank
Announcements:
Rotary Club is supporting the Jersey Shore Autism Foundation event September 20, details to follow.
The membership goal for this year is 12 new members
$1124 was garnered from the Lombardi event to go into our general fund
The club is starting our own 50 - 50. Sell 1000 tickets and $10 each
3 winners get 50%, 30%, 20%
$4000 will go to our Club
$1000 will go towards Shelter Box
Drawing will be December 13
New Club initiative will be to put Rotary signs around town.
Roger spoke about the clambake and thanked Shore Point Distributors for the alcohol and Piancones for the food.
Long Branch Rotary Club Clambake set for August 15th
Food, Fun and Fellowship will be the order of the day when the Rotary Club of Long Branch hosts its annual Clambake Party. The event will be held once again at the Patton Avenue Ice Boat & Yacht Club beginning at 5pm.
The event will feature outdoor games, Margarita's, Sangria, beer, soda, Lobster, and a full buffet by Piancone's in Long Branch. “This is the club’s FUN raiser not a Fund raiser” said Clambake Committee Chair Roger Hansen. “It’s a really wonderful time every year.” The rain or shine event will also feature the 2nd annual bocce competition between the Long Branch and Asbury Park clubs. “We look forward to cleaning their clocks again this year,” said Hansen. For tickets and more information log onto: rclb.bigcartel.com.
Rotary Fellowships
The Club received an informative presentation from Joe Stringfellow from the Willingboro, NJ Club on Rotary Fellowships. These groups within a group are made up of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to share a common interest in a worthwhile activity. This could be sports, or any hobby, such as wine enthusiasts, bird watching or really any common pursuit. It provides a valuable and fun way to bring more people to Rotary and enhance an individuals experience in Rotary.
Pledge of Allegiance: Al Peskoe
Blessing/Invocation: Paul Peacock
Guest: Sheila Vinton, District Governor of District 7500
Welcome: Rotary Club President, Mika Hon welcomed our guest and speaker Sheila Vinton, of the Point Pleasant Rotary Club.
Announcements:
* President Mika suggested to bring old ROTARIAN magazines to the meetings on Fridays, so we can put new labels on them and re-distribute them to doctors' and dentists' offices and other establishments with waiting rooms.
This should help us get some additional exposure very inexpensively.
* Postcards and posters are available for our clambake. While it's not really "open to the public", we certainly welcome family and friends to the event.
* 9/20 will be a movie night with proceeds to benefit Mike Ciavolino's Jersey Autism Foundation. Details to follow.
Speaker:
Ms. Vinton is the District Governor of district 7500, which serves Monmouth, Ocean and Burlington Counties.
Despite the fact that she will have her house demolished and rebuilt because of Superstorm Sandy she vowed to make this a Rotary year of fun and fellowship, of course, always with the goal of making a difference. The first event with be a District 7500 Family Picnic in Wall on 8/18 which will also serve as a RYLA reunion. The cost is $35 and guests are welcome.
On 9/22, her club will host the Charlie Goldfarb challenge with 6 clubs competing in various challenging games and then celebrating the winners and losers with BBQ and beer.
Ms. Vinton expressed her hope, that this might be the year that Rotary will be able to write the final chapter in eradicating Polio worldwide, and thanked everybody for their continued support.
Next year's district conference will be in Point Pleasant to give everybody a chance to attend, whether it's for the entire weekend or for just one or two days.
50/50 was won by J. Tango
Future speakers are
8/2 Joe Marmora, Interfaith Neighbors
8/9 Police Captain Jason Roebuck, Director of Public Safety
9/16 Dan Jacobson, Owner/publisher Tri-City News
Nancy Marcus from Envision Health & Fitness being thanked by Pres. Mika Hon
Rotary Club enters 2013-14 Year with Big Agenda
Al Peskoe Led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation.
In his first official meeting as new Club President, Mika Hon outlined a spirited and aggressive agenda for his term in office at the Club’s weekly Friday meeting.
In addition to the continuation of the Club’s very successful food drive, Mr Hon indicated that the groups that would be supported this year include the Waves of Hope Foundation, Kick Cancer Overboard and the Jersey Shore Autism Foundation.
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to support these great causes,” said President Hon. “These are three local charities that serve very important needs here in our community.”
In addition, increasing membership is a big initiative for the Club this year. “Very simply, if you live in this community and you are interested in doing something about helping to fight cancer, if you’re interested in doing something to help the hungry families of the community, if you are interested in helping with the fight against Autism, if you are interested in being part of an organization that puts “Service Above Self” then you really should consider joining the Long Branch Rotary Club”, said President Hon.
Club Members get a badly needed lesson in Fitness
Our speaker this past week was Nancy Marcus, Operations Manager and Personal Trainer at Envision Health & Fitness. The Fitness Center has been complexly redone and is located at 200 Ocean Blvd North here in the city. Envision offers it’s members a full suite of fitness options including cardio, weight training, nutritional counseling, personal training, massage therapy services and more. For more information, contact Nancy at 732-759-8629 or visit them online at www.envisionhealthandfitness.net
Mike Ciavolino, Co-Chair of the 2013 Jersey Shore Walk for Autism Speaks is thanked by Club President-Elect, Mika Hon.
Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation
Pres. Elect Mika Hon chaired the meeting
Pres. Elect Mika welcomed guest, Amy Stern of the New City, NY Rotary Club and her guest Ellen Feit to the meeting.
Announcements:
Congratulation to Brian & Julie Berry who will be welcoming a new baby today.
The Club will be holding food drives outside Fine Fare Supermarket on 6/8 and 6/15. Club members should continue to bring non-perishable food to our weekly meetings through June 28th. The food drive for this year will be ending June 30th with a donation to Rev. Al’s Church of The Reformation in West Long Branch.
Speaker: Long Branch Rotarian Michael Ciavolino
The Jersey Shore Walk for Autism Speaks returns to Long Branch in September.
For the 8th consecutive year, the Jersey Shore Walk Now for Autism Speaks will be bringing its nearly 5,000 walkers, runners, spectators, volunteers and advocates to the Boardwalk here in Long Branch. The walk will be held on September 28th and for the 3rd consecutive year, be preceded by the “5K Run Before The Walk.”
Mike Ciavolino, Rotarian and Co-Chair of the 2013 Walk spoke to the Club about the critical issues presented by Autism and need for additional local business involvement in this year’s walk.
“Autism affects 1 in 88 children, 1 in 54 boys,” said Ciavolino. “In New Jersey, Autism affects 1 in 49 children, 1 in 29 are boys. More children are affected by Autism than diabetes, AIDS, Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Cystic Fibrosis, Muscular Dystrophy or Down Syndrome combined. And yet, Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases. And obviously what do those statistics tell us about costs associated with autism? The costs on all of us as a society are crippling.” As of now, there is no medical detection or cure for Autism.
The Jersey Shore Walk Now for Autism Speaks is part of the nation's largest grassroots autism walk program, is Autism Speaks' signature fundraising and awareness event, taking place in communities across the United States, as well as in Canada. Powered by volunteers and families with loved ones on the autism spectrum and local businesses and companies that employ those on the spectrum, this successful grassroots fundraising effort not only generates vital funds for autism research but also raises awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism and the need for increased research funding to combat this complex disorder.
On Thursday July 11th, the NJ Shore Walk Kick Off Reception will be held at McCloone’s Pier Village at 6pm.
Lex Tucci suggested that the focus for Pres. Mika’s 2013-2014 term could be Autism Speaks.
For more information on the Kick Off Dinner or corporate sponsorships, starting a team or getting involved, contact: NJShore@autismspeaks.org
Guest speaker Patricia Kelly, PT GCFP and Pres. Fatima Camacho
Attendees: Al Peskoe, Ken Gittell, Len Kiczek, Michael Ciavolino, Michael Hon, Michael Hayes, Patricia Binkowski, Fatima Camacho, Ted Friedli, Ted Panis, Roger Hansen, Gerald Kass, Alexis Tucci, Paul Peacock, Brian Berry, Fatin Alkhaleel, Robert Celi, Paul Dement, and Jack Kearns.
Pledge of Allegiance: Al Peskoe
Blessing/Invocation: Paul Peacock
Guests: Patricia Kennelly PT, GCFP and Linda Jensen.
Welcome: Fatima Camacho
Agenda:
President Fatima Camacho opened up the meeting with details of the Art Show held at the Deal Country Club. We are going to try and make that an annual event. Bigger and better every year!!!!!!!
Fatima asked volunteers to sign up for the Rotary Food Drive to be held at Fine Fare on Saturday, June 8 and June 15 from 9:00-1:00.
Speaker: Patricia Kennelly PT, GCFP. Topic: Sensory Motor Retraining. Discovered by Mosher Feldenkrais, D.Sc. The Feldenkrais Method helps people of all ages learn to move more easily. i.e. ease pain and chronic discomfort, improve posture, balance and flexibility, prevent injury, increase energy, reduce stress and fatigue, and improve concentration.
VP Brian Berry, guest speaker Peter Rowe, and club Treasurer Len Kiczek
Al Peskoe led the Club in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Paul Peacock provided the Invocation. Brian Berry read the guest list which included our guest speaker, Peter Rowe, and Colonel William Spence. Brian welcomed the guests and led the meeting.
Announcements
Len Kiczek congratulated everyone on the Art Fundraising Committee and announced that $4,250 was raised for the Karen Hansen Scholarship Fund.
It was announced that the Club’s Scholarship Committee met to determine scholarship awardees this year from Long Branch High School and they will e meting again next week to discuss Shore Regional applicants. The awardees should be announced in the next couple of weeks. There will be three from Long Branch and three from Shore Regional.
Brian announced that Saturday, May 11th is the annual “Wave of Hope Day” and invited all Rotarians to participate.
Speaker
Our speaker was Peter Rowe. Peter came to talk about a product called ASEA that contains “signaling molecules” and promotes immune function, speeds the healing process and studies have shown a major increase in V02 max and in endurance. Peter states that he is a distance runner. Since taking the product, his running times have increased and he has not been injured for at least two years. Peter is retired and began focusing on wellness and fitness years ago and has passed that along to his kids.
front - L-R Brian Berry, Bob Celli, Paul Peacock, Alexis Tucci Rear- Bill Tompkins from Old First United Methodist Church
Pasta and sauce collection for monthly dinner for people in need
Guests were Jeff Horn, NJ Ad Club and Oceanport Mayor Michael Mahon
50/50 won by Brian
Oceanport Mayor Michael Mahon: “We’re Coming Back!”
The Mayor of Oceanport, the Honorable Michael J. Mahon, (Left) being thanked by our Club-President Elect Michael Hon.
ON A FRIDAY AFTERNOON that finally foretold of a hint of Spring and better times ahead, Oceanport Mayor Michael Mahon spoke to the Rotary Club of Long Branch about the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts currently happening in our neighboring borough.
“The day before the storm, our police department, EMS and other Borough workers were braced for the worst and mobilized for action.” said Mayor Mahon. “Clean up of the Borough began as early as possible on Tuesday morning after the storm.” The clean up however revealed a stark and staggering situation in Oceanport: Of the 2100 homes in the borough, 1200 of them were damaged. 800 of those homes were wet and 87 of those had substantial damage.
“We used our schools as shelters, said Mahon, and served over 900 meals in 14 days to residents out of their homes, out of power and in great need. With the help of generators, we got lap tops to the shelter so residents could check bank accounts, make contact with loved ones and communicate with their businesses. We even held our council meetings right in the school.”
The Mayor continued, “While our early response efforts were in full swing, the governing body was looking ahead to the next phase of the recovery and hired a professional consultant specializing in hazard mitigation programming for municipalities. Working with our professionals, construction, emergency management and administrative team, the consultant has completed the initial package of grant applications seeking funds for elevating structures, installing emergency power systems, and drainage infrastructure improvements in flood prone areas.”
Mayor Mahon also said that the status of Borough Hall remains uncertain and has taken a back seat to other considerations as the governing body has made helping the residents its first priority.
Among those efforts included waiving over $50,000 in permit fees. The initial waiver period of 45 days has been extended twice in recognition of the slow FEMA, SBA, and Flood insurance claims process that has delayed homeowner efforts to begin reconstruction.
Mayor Mahon also told of the formation of the Oceanport Cares Foundation. Oceanport Cares was formed with the intent to assist emergency management to prepare, recover and rebuild from the emergencies which affect the community; threatened or actual natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or other man-made disasters. Oceanport Cares is empowered to raise funds to support the Oceanport Office of Emergency Management (OEM), the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), long-term community recovery efforts and other community response efforts which the Board of Directors, in consultation with the Director of Emergency Management, choose to do.
Donations are now being accepted and you may mail them to:
Oceanport Cares
Attn: Buzz Baldanza
43 Algonquin Ave
Oceanport, NJ 07757
It’s safe to say that despite the challenges ahead and those already faced in Oceanport, that the Borough could not be in better hands under this administration led by Mayor Michael Mahon.
Rotary Club Food Drive: Only a month to go and the need is great
The 2012-2013 Rotary Club of Long Branch Food Drive has delivered over 20,000 pounds of food to the needy at parishes all over our area including First Methodist, 2nd Baptist Church, Star of the Sea and St James Parish. Our club is helping now by donating pasta and marinara sauce for a pasta dinner to St Luke’s Church and Church of the Reformation in West Long Branch.
St. Michaels church had this to say in their monthly newsletter: “A big thank you to the Rotary Club of Long Branch and Shore Regional High School who made us the recipient of a very large donation of food. Our bags this month were stuffed! Our collection amounted to $3,113.77 and we were able to serve over 120 families!”
There’s still time to donate pasta, jarred sauce and other non-perishable goods: Simply bring the items during normal business hours to any one of the following locations:
• NJ Ink Shop – 177 Locust Ave West Long Branch
• Wells Fargo – 555 Ocean Blvd West End
• Atlantic Security – 44 Oceanport Ave West Long Branch
• New Life Chiropractic – 236 Second Ave. Long Branch
• Central Jersey Bank – 444 Ocean Blvd Ursula Plaza Long Branch
• Monmouth Medical Center – Long Branch
• Tucci Hot & Crupi PC – 464 Broadway Long Branch
• Investors Bank -169 Broadway Long Branch
• Greater Long Branch Chamber – 228 Broadway Long Branch
• Monmouth University – West Long Branch
• Shore Creative Group – 176 Broadway Long Branch
Welcome New Member Kris Mistretta!
Our newest Club Member, Kris Mistretta being pinned and welcomed into our Club by President-Elect Mika Hon.
The ranks of our Club are growing. And not only are they growing in numbers, but in the numbers of interested, engaged, community-focused individuals who share our passion for community “Service Above Self.”
A prime example of that is our newest addition, Kris Mistretta. Kris is a local business owner and long time member of our community. In the weeks leading up to his pinning ceremony which was this past Friday, Kris has been fully involved in all of the Club’s activities and we are delighted to have him on board. Welcome Kris!!
A Big Thanks to our host Mr. Jack Rooney
Each week, Rooney’s in Long Branch graciously hosts our club meetings. We’re welcomed warmly, and served a wonderful delicious lunch by the kitchen and staff. Rooney’s creates a welcoming environment each and every week for Rotarians and their guests. Our Club wanted to present a small token of thanks and an acknowledgement of this ongoing graciousness to Owner Jack Rooney at this week’s meeting. We thank you Jack, Daryl and all at Rooney’s for making us feel so welcome!
Upcoming FREE seminar for small businesses recovering from Sandy
Finally, our busy meeting concluded with a brief announcement by Jeff Horn who is a member of Rotary District 7500 e-club. Jeff is also President of the NJ Ad Club and announced a free seminar for small businesses affected by Hurricane Sandy. The seminar will be held May 20th at the Headliner in Neptune from 5:30 – 8:30pm and is titled “Navigating Marketing Strategies That Will Help Your Business Recover.” Marketing and Advertising agencies will be on-hand to offer FREE guidance, advice and strategic insight to help your business recover and grow. For more information, call Jeff at 973-715-6905.
Joyce DeJohn, the daughter of the late Karen Hansen, talks about her mom and thanks the attendees
Rotary Round Up
Ocean Twp. NJ - Unlike last year’s inaugural event that featured thunder, lightening, soaked patrons and power outages, The 2nd Annual Rotary Club of Long Branch 2nd Art Show was an unbridled celebration of music, food, community spirit, a packed room and of course fabulous artwork.
Over a dozen artists were on hand curating collections ranging from stained glass to art made from shipwrecks and more. Any notion that an art show is “stuffy” was also quickly erased by the fabulously fun acoustic duo of Tom and Tom who entertained the crowd all night long.
Attendees were also treated to a great selection of beer and wine courtesy of Court Liquors, food and raffle baskets. But most importantly,
The evening was about raising money for Special Education and a Tribute to a very special woman, who gave her life to special education and special needs children, Karen Hansen.
The Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund was established so that area kids can pursue a career in special education. “Our event tonight raised $4,250 for the Hansen Scholarship Fund.” said Rotary Club President-Elect Mika Hon. We want to thank everyone who came out and showed their support tonight, Deal Country Club and of course all the artists who all worked so hard to make this a great event.”
Mike Ciavolino. Pres.-Elect Mika Hon, Club Pres. Fatima Camacho and Margot Vasquez handle the auction duties
Rotary Club Embraces Community, Collaboration and Special Education at 2nd Annual Art Show
I announced the May 3rd charter night dinner for District 7500 eclub
The District Assembly is coming up May 11th. I tried to encourage anyone who is a board member to attend with me. I might have guilted Brian into it and I'm coming after you next Chevy.
I mentioned that there are no RYLA applicants as of yet. RYLA is held every year at Monmouth University and Rotarians are encouraged to come and visit or more importantly volunteer to help. I mentioned how it's a shame that there isn't a Rotaract at our local University that hosts RYLA.
I spoke about the art show and how important it is for our club members to support the few fundraisers we do every year.
Joe Gigas was our guest and spoke about the new challenges he faces for the NJ Marathon after the bombings in Massachusetts. He coordinates the race through eight different municipalities and to provide extra security out of pocket for such an extensive race could prohibit the race from continuing in the future. This race is a full time job for Joe who often works seven days a week in order to make it a success as the largest marathon in NJ.
On a more positive note some race participants use the NJ Marathon as a vehicle to raise one and a half million dollars towards charities. Joe mentioned how essential Ted Friedli has been in helping staff the race with his volunteers from Kick Cancer Overboard. Ted spoke about how Kick Cancer Overboard has given (and continues to give) some outstanding memories and much needed vacation time to families who have a terminally ill family member.
Tyler Richards spoke about the upcoming race on Mothers Day. From their web page:
Sign up now for a 5K Run/Walk Race. Have a great time, and help families achieve home ownership in Monmouth County!
Sponsored by
Western Monmouth Habitat for Humanity and
Northeastern Monmouth Habitat for Humanity
Sunday May 12, 20139:00 am
Monmouth University Football Stadium
Larchwood Ave, West Long Branch, NJ
Course will begin at the Monmouth University Track and Football Stadium and loop through West Long Branch and Oakhurst, then back to the Stadium.
Sponsor Runners Shirts will be given to all pre- registered race participants
Those who sign up before March 1st are guaranteed a shirt - No shirt guarantees after March 1st sign-up
Awards will be given to the top runners in each of the following age categories: 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-80
Rotary International District Governor Joan Vas presents the Paul Harris Fellow Award to our very own Club member, Ted Friedli
President Fatima Camacho chaired the meeting.
Al Peskoe let the Pledge of Allegiance.
Paul Peacock gave the Invocation.
Pres. Fatima announced our guests: Rotary District 7500 Governor Joan Vas & Robert Lanfrank, Founder and President of Healthy Way Waterproofing & Mold Remediation
Roger hansen introduced guest and prospective new member Kris Mistretta.
Great Neighbor. Great Friend. Great Rotarian. It’s Ted Friedli!
This past Friday was a special day for the Rotary Club of Long Branch. Our very own Club Rotarian, Ted Friedli was given the prestigious Paul P. Harris Fellow Award by Rotary International District Governor, Joan Vas.
The Paul Harris Award was created in memory of Paul Harris who established the Rotary Club over 106 years ago and it is the highest award presented by the Club. Its’ purpose is to acknowledge the outstanding contribution and exceptional service of members of both the community and the club.
Ted truly represents Rotary’s motto of “Service above Self.” Several years ago, Ted started the non-profit group Kick Cancer Overboard, an organization that gives free cruises to people and their families whose lives have been forever altered by cancer.
Founder of the local travel agency Excel Travel here in Long Branch, Ted conceived an idea where a cruise ship would be filled with cancer fighters and survivors, their friends, family and supporters – all together celebrating life in a place where those touched by cancer can take a break for a few days.
As Governor Vas said as she gave Ted his award, “Ted is a real hero.” We could not agree more. Congratulations Ted!
We are just a month away from the 2nd Annual Rotary Club Art Show. The date is April 25th at 5:30 pm at Deal Country Club. Many of the area top artists will sell curated artwork with a portion of the proceeds going to the newly founded Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund.
The fund was established for area individuals who wish to pursue a career in Special Education. “ Karen taught Special Ed for almost 40 years, “ said Roger Hansen, Club Service Chair. “ That is a tremendous feat when you consider the "Burn-Out" rate of Special Ed teachers is about 5 years. Aside from the love she had for all her students, was the great satisfaction of watching them learn and grow through their seemingly insurmountable disabilities. Through the years she mentored many new teachers and convinced many to enter her very satisfying field. In this day and age we need more Special Education Professionals than ever before. Karen continually expressed the wish to some day be able to help those looking to enter this rewarding field thus, upon her passing, the members of our family created this Fund to help her reach this goal.” The evening will also feature Craft Beer and Wine Samplings from Shore Point Distributors, music from the guitar duo Tom and Tom, numerous raffle baskets, cold coffee samplings from Rook Coffee Roasters and much more. For tickets visit: www.rclb.bigcartel.com
Club President Fatima Camacho thanks our speaker Robert Lanfrank of Healthy Way Waterproofing
Ted Friedli introduced guest speaker:
Robert Lanfrank, Founder and President of Healthy Way Waterproofing & Mold Remediation. Servicing all of the NJ, Healthy Way is the leader in foundation, waterproofing, mold remediation, water damage, structural repair and remodeling. In his presentation, Robert gave the Club some outstanding tips on dealing with water damage, mold removal and more.
Our meeting of April 12th will feature former Seton Hall basketball star JERRY WALKER. Former Seton Hall basketball star and Phi Kappa Theta brother Jerry Walker will be our guest speaker at the next Phi Kappa Theta Alumni & Friends luncheon, to be held at Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, beginning at 12:15 p.m. See next weeks column for more details.
Kris Mistretta was welcomed as a prospective member
Jorge Martinez introduced his group from AUSA
The first order of business was to squash the incorrect usage of Member Proposal emails. When a member is proposed via email the correct procedure is to ONLY RESPOND WHEN PUTTING FORTH AN OBJECTION and to do absolutely nothing if you agree with the prospective member joining the club. Otherwise complete anarchy and mayhem ensues mixed with some hurt feelings.
Next announcement concerned our Art Show:
One of the most significant changes for this year is a reduced price of only $40 per ticket for the event. The Art Show will be held at the fabulous Deal Country Club on April 25th from 5:30 to 8:30 pm.
• The evening will feature curated artwork for sale from many of the area’s top artists. Artists tentatively scheduled to appear include:
Ana Monique Oesterheld
Art Nelson
Frank Colaguori
Frank DiGiovanni
Megan Heath Gilhool
Joey No
Leora Asa
Annette Margulies
Michael Ciccotello
Kate Grady
Carolyn Roche
Mike Menendez
•craft beer and wine samplings from Shore Point Distributors
•coffee samplings from local roaster Rook Coffee Roasters
•acoustic music by local artists Tom and Tom
•hot and cold passed Hors D'oeuvres, a pasta station, and a Tuscan salad station
•many raffle items
Last September, the Long Branch community lost a very dedicated Special Education professional, Mrs. Karen Hansen. She taught in the Long Branch School System for more than 25 years. Countless children needing special attention in their education are now productive adults due to the caring efforts provided by Karen and the many Special Education Professionals in our schools. Karen’s one wish was to be able to help those aspiring to enter this rewarding field. Her family has established the Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund and all the proceeds from our event will go to it.
For tickets in advance for the Art Show or more information, please go to rclb.bigcartel.com or call 848-391-5181.
Monday the 25th Shore Regional will need help picking up food at the High School. Bob Celli, Gordon Heggie, Brian Berry, Ken Gittell and Mika Hon volunteered.
A great presentation was given by Jorge Martinez from the Association of the United States Army. The AUSA is a professional and educational association dedicated to being a voice for the United States Army. Acting as the voice of every American Soldier, the AUSA fosters public support of the Army’s role in national security and provides critically needed professional education and information programs.
The AUSA is a local link between area businesses and soldiers. For more information, visit them at www.ausa.org
Rotary Clubs recognize Monmouth County’s best at Lombardi Awards Dinner
The Rotary Clubs of Monmouth County convened to honor 27 outstanding young men at the 41st Annual Vince Lombardi Awards Banquet Thursday night at the Sheraton Hotel in Eatontown.
The annual event recognizes the best offensive linemen in Shore Conference Football, who have been selected by their coaches for the award because they portray the traditions, beliefs and ideals of the legendary coach of the Green Bay Packers, Vince Lombardi.
In judging the eligible candidates, the coaches were asked to choose those players that Coach Lombardi would have been proud to have playing for him. Individuals who embody the qualities of discipline, courage, endurance, desire, ability and performance. Congratulations to all of the award winners!
Our Club had two impromptu speakers at our least meeting. The first was by an innovative company here in Long Branch, called Proflect-Direct. The company uses interactive technology such as QR Codes, Mobile and Social Interaction to turn every day sign posts into highly creative, trackable marketing channel.
The company offers custom creative services, design and mobile platforms that can be a viable marketing solution for any group, charity, business, parking lot, campuses, churches, parks, trails, events, towns, cities, shopping malls and much. For more information, you can find them on the web at http://www.proflect-direct.com
Our 2nd speaker was the renowned Podiatrist Dr. Dennis Shavelson, DPM the guest and husband of Rotarian Margot Vasquez. Dr. Shavelsonwas named among the "75 Top Innovators in Podiatry in 2011" by Podiatry Management Magazine. He spoke to the Club about fall prevention, lifestyle adjustments and ways to prevent a 2nd fall.
Breaking news on the Club’s Art Show – The entertainment for the evening will be provided by the legendary guitar duo of Tom and Tom! (http://tomandtom.net) Tom and Tom play a fun and intriguing variety of classic and contemporary rock songs. They combine amazing vocal harmonies with great musicianship. Don't forget the show is slated for April 25th at Deal Country Club from 6 until 8pm. For more information, tickets, or if you are an artist looking to participate, please call Club President Elect Mika Hon at 848-391-5181.
Ted Friedli introduced and welcomed our guest speakers from FEMA
Great Art for a Great Cause:
Rotary Club of Long Branch Announces 2nd Annual Art Show
The Rotary Club of Long Branch once again invites you to simultaneously stimulate the senses of sight, sound and taste at their 2nd annual art show.
The show will be held on Thursday April 25th from 6pm until 8pm at the Deal Country Club in Ocean Twp.
The evening will feature original artistic pieces for sale of varying styles proudly displayed by some of the area’s finest local artists. Tickets for the event are affordably priced at only $40 per person and include wine and beer samplings courtesy of Shore Point Distributors, a delicious assortment of passed Hors D’ouerves, pasta stations and artisanal brick oven pizzas, live entertainment and various silent auction and raffle baskets.
A portion of the evenings’ proceeds will be donated to the newly established Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students.
For information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities or if you are an artist looking to display and sell your artwork, please email Mika Hon at: mika@njinkshop.com, call him 848-391-5181, or stop by NJ Ink Shop during normal business hours at 177 Locust Ave in West Long Branch.
In other Club News, our Food Drive is still underway through June. To date we’ve delivered over 1000 pounds of food and $12,000 dollars to the churches and pantries of Long Branch.
Please do what you can to help those less fortunate in our community by dropping off canned and non-perishable goods at our meeting or any of the drop off points.
Representatives from F.E.M.A. spoke on the state of repairs underway here at the Jersey Shore since the wrath of Hurricane Sandy. In a wide ranging discussion, the F.E.M.A. representatives talked about changes to the Flood Insurance Program, where individuals may go for disaster help, and how business and individuals can prepare in the event of another hurricane.
Coach Shep knocks it out of the park for Rotary Club
This past Friday, the legendary baseball Head Coach Emeritus of the Seton Hall University Pirates, Mike Shepard or “Coach Shep” treated large audience to one of the most entertaining and compelling speeches in recent memory.
A packed house at Rooney Ocean Crab House included local Rotarians, honored guests and Seton Hall alumni including former Yankee great Rick Cerrone and Pirate basketball legend Nick Werkman.
In his 31 years as head coach of the Pirate baseball team from 1973 to 2003, Coach Shep recorded 28 winning seasons and 27 post-season births highlighted by 15 Big East Tournament appearances.
He was named Big East Conference coach of the year three times and his squads reach the College World Series on two occasions in 1974 and 1975. His 998 career wins ranks in the top 75 of the NCAA’s all time winningest coaches.
Former Yankee Catcher and Seton Hall Pirate great Rick Cerrone joined Coach Shep on the dais to share some words about how the coach impacted his life and why he loved playing for him. In a 30-minute speech, the coach talked about the program and college athletics, his life in the game, community outreach efforts and what it takes to become a champion. It was an inspiring presentation that let Rotarians in on a glimpse of life as a big time coach in the NCAA. Thank you Coach Shep and past President Lex Tucci for making it happen!
Before introducing Coach Sheppard, Tucci also spoke about the club’s Food Drive, which is ongoing through June. “Our food drive has now distributed over 1000 pounds of food and donated $12,000 dollars to the city’s pantries and churches. These pantries are vitally important to those individuals less fortunate right here in our community.”
Tucci went on to talk about how the Food Drive has now involved area schools: “The Long Branch Middle School has instituted a new homeroom challenge in support of our Food Drive and Shore Regional High School has a Battle of the Classrooms to see which class can donate more food to the drive. We’re excited about the results but there is still more work to be done. Thanks to Investor’s Bank and everyone who has gotten behind our Food Drive.”
Past President Lex Tucci talks about the success, importance and ongoing efforts of the Rotary Club’s Food Drive.
SAVE THE DATE: The 2nd annual Rotary Club of Long Branch Art Show is on! The Art Show will be April 25th at the fabulous Deal Country Club. The event will feature artwork for sale from some of the area’s top artists, craft beer and wine courtesy of Shore Point Distributors, entertainment and much more.
The proceeds from this year’s event will go towards the newly established Karen Hansen Memorial Scholarship Fund. Individuals who have an interest in pursing a career in Special Education will have the opportunity to apply for an award from this Scholarship Fund. The Fund has been established in the memory of Karen Hansen, who passed away in September of 2012, and the wife of long time Rotarian and Club Service Chair, Roger Hansen. Over the course of her 40-year teaching career, Karen dedicated her life to Special Education and making a profound difference in the lives of many young students.
Club President-Elect Mika Hon (right) receives Club Banner from visiting Rotarian John Klinedinst from the York, PA Rotary Club.
PIRATE PRIDE: NICK ‘THE QUICK” WERKMAN (Center, foreground) Among the guests was SHU Pirate basketball legend Nick Werkman. Nick is one of only 4 Pirates in School history to score 1,000 points and grab 1,000 rebounds
Guest Speakers Anthony Thomas and Thomas Uddo with Pres. Fatima
Pledge was started by Bill Bogliolioliolio
Blessing was done by Paul Peacock
We had 4 guests: Terry Janeczek, Kristen Handler, Thomas Uddo, and Anthony Thomas
Bill Boglioli spoke about the upcoming Lombardi dinner on March 7th. The money for attending and the 50/50 raffle sales is due next Friday the 22nd and Bill needs it in hands by Thursday the 21st. As of now we are 6 people shy of filling two tables. He stressed that it is extremely important for us to prove to Asbury Park that we can have a better turn out than them. The seriousness of this was reflected by Bill refusing a cell phone call during the middle of his announcement.
Next Friday February 22nd Mike Sheppard, the former head baseball coach of Seton Hall, will be our guest speaker.
March 22nd our district governor Joan Vas will be visiting and presenting our very own Ted Friedli with the coveted Paul Harris award. Ted is the owner of Excel Travel and President of Kick Cancer Overboard.
Ken Leposa urged us to continue to donate to our troops who are away from their families. He had the honor to meet with Soldier Brendan Marrocco of Staten Island, NY. Brendan lost all four limbs while serving in Iraq and was just the recipient of a double arm transplant. Ken thanked him and Brendan humbly said he was just doing his duty.
Thomas Uddo and Anthony Thomas, two public insurance adjusters, spoke to us about the benefits of hiring a public adjuster after having an accident or natural disaster affect your property. They covered many different situations where people might not think of filing a claim and explained how they could get you the money you deserve according to your policy. The insurance company adjusters are working to save the insurance company money, not to give you the money you pay for. A public adjuster will go to bat for you and they only take their percentage after you get paid. Adjusters have often been known to get you over 500% more for your claim then you would without one. They pay for themselves.
Jerry Kass won a impressive $20 in the 50/50.
A delicious cheesecake was served for dessert on Rooney's finest china.
Guests were welcomed. Terry Janaseh, Pete E. Genovese, Nicole Quinn, Mike Salvatore, Laura Ciavolino
Mike Ciavolino spoke about District Governor Joan Vas’ new membership drive and District 7500’s upcoming marketing campaign.
Superintendent Salvatore Delivers State of the Long Branch School System Address to Rotary Club of Long Branch
On a snowy windswept Friday, Long Branch Rotarians were treated to an informative, passionate and detailed update on the state of the Long Branch schools by School District Superintendent Michael Salvatore.
Mr. Salvatore spoke to the Club on a wide range of topics including the following:
Educational Initiatives
In order to maximize time and efficiency, the teachers of the Long Branch School District have an “On Demand” Library of nearly 3000 videos and online content. If a teacher has a unique situation with a new student – perhaps one where they are new to the area and/or English is a 2nd language, for example – the teacher can simply go to the Library for resources, information and techniques on how to better educate and integrate the child into the school’s curriculum and culture.
Tablet Initiative
Increasing and improving student vocabulary is an important agenda item for Mr. Salvatore and his staff. A new “Literacy through Vocabulary” program is helping to achieve this initiative. Currently there are nearly 3000 Tablets out in District that are accessible to the school kids. Reading, science and lab components of curriculum can now be accessed online. What makes the program even more beneficial is that the project can be modified by each child’s specific needs.
District Finances
In order to create financial efficiencies so that every dollar can go back towards teachers and resources, the District monitors heating, air-conditioning and all utilities at each school on a 24/7 basis. Mr. Salvatore also spoke of the Districts Solar Panel initiative. While this program has had mixed results at the outset, he hopes in the long run it will prove financially beneficial for the School District. Other green measures include having the District become a “Paperless Society” where routine items such as field trips, sick days and other teacher communications can now be handled online rather than through the “old school” mountains of paperwork.
Security
In the wake of the Newtown tragedy, School Security is at the forefront of District Initiatives. Working closely with local authorities, the District has planned several changes, some of which are still in the planning stages. There are currently 2000 cameras in schools and administrators are equipped with Walkie Talkie’s that communicate directly with LBPD. Mr. Salvatore expressed his opinion that no guns should be or will be allowed in the schools. Other security measures include:
·Working with parents, teachers and police to constantly evaluate procedures
·Modifying the entryways of older schools to ensure tighter security restrictions
·Phones in every classroom
·Student Lock Down Drills
·The District is experimenting with a new sound for lock down, so that teachers and students are immediately aware of any situation
·New procedure for school visits where individuals must have appointments
Mr. Salvatore also mentioned that the school budget is now $90 million and there are currently 5500 students enrolled in the Long Branch School System
The Long Branch Rotary Club Food Drive is ongoing through June. This is one of the most important initiatives in the long history of the Club. We thank everyone who has donated food and other goods and to everyone who has volunteered to collect and distribute the items to the churches and pantries here in the city. The following is a partial list of drop off locations. Each week, we’ll feature various convenient drop off points:
• Tucci Hot & Crupi PC – 464 Broadway Long Branch
• Investors Bank -169 Broadway Long Branch
• Greater Long Branch Chamber – 228 Broadway Long Branch
• Monmouth University – West Long Branch
• Shore Creative Group – 176 Broadway Long Branch
* NJ Ink Shop - 177 Locust Ave West Long Branch
Don’t forget the 41st Annual Lombardi Awards Banquet to be held on March 7th at The Sheraton Eatontown Hotel at 6pm. For tickets and information contact Diane Rotondelli at CVR, at 732-544-1800 x231
Mark your calendars for the 2nd annual Rotary Club of Long Branch Art Show on April 25th at the Deal Country Club. The evening will feature artwork for sale form some of the area’s top local artists, craft beer tastings, light fare, entertainment and much more.
We close this week with a huge shout out to fellow Rotarian, Ted Friedl, the owner of Excel Travel and President of Kick Cancer Overboard. On March 22nd, Ted will receive the prestigious “Paul Harris Award” presented by Rotary International District Governor Joan Vas. Ted and his charity Kick Cancer Overboard has become a local champion of people and families affected by Cancer in our area. KCO is dedicated to raising awareness and critical dollars in the fight against cancer, while at the same time sending patients, survivors and their families on much needed, and well deserved cruises.
Several hundred pounds of food collected by the Rotary Club was delivered January 31st to Christ the King Parish food pantry by Board members Ken Gittell, Brian Berry, and Gordon Heggie. Please continue to donate food at our weekly meetings.
Guests – Marisa, Gary Siciliano from the Asbury Park Rotary, Linda Boscia from Better Qualified Business and Consumer Credit Experts.
Announcements:
Lombardi Awards Dinner March 7 at the Sheraton Eatontown. Contact Bill Boglioli
RCLB Art Show at the Deal Country Club is Thursday April 25th 6pm. 6 artists are confirmed and 8 are pending.
District 7500 Conference is Monday 2/4 in Toms River.
Asbury Park Polar Plunge is tomorrow 2/2 11am.
Good and Welfare: We are sad to announce the passing of Paul Dement’s father.
Speaker: Linda Boscia, Better Qualified Business & consumer Credit Experts
Your credit score determines your ability to purchase a home, restructure your finances, and even land a new job. Some Do’s and Don’ts to keep your credit score fresh:
DO Regularly monitor your credit
DO Stay current on your accounts
DO Keep old accounts open
DO Establish various types of Credit
DON’T Bit off more than you can chew
DON’T Max your cards
DON’T Sign your credit cards
Most importantly, don’t neglect bad credit. At some point in your life you are going to depend on your credit score to improve your standard of living. If you are suffering from poor credit, take action before it’s too late. The company specializes in credit restoration, ID theft resolution, and credit monitoring.
Pledge of Allegiance: Roger Hansen
Blessing: Michael Ciavolino
We had two guests, Ed McNamee and Nicole Moreira
First bit of business was the induction of Michael DeJohn to the RCLB. Michael is the Craft Beer Division Manager of Shore Point Distributors. He lives with his wife, Joyce, and three kids in Rumson.
Joan Vas sent out an email looking for local Rotarians who can open their homes to visiting Rotarians from North Carolina. These people are coming up to assist in the constructing of homes for people who were affected by Hurricane Sandy.
Fatima announced the foundation dinner that she's attending that evening.
March 7th is the Lombardi dinner and we want to make sure we have two tables filled from our club. Vince Papaldi is 99% certain to be the speaker.
Lex Tucci spoke about the importance of continuing the food drive programs we have been doing. He compared it to the other large town projects we have been involoved with like the Ronald McDonald House and the Ice House at MU. Victoria Koontz from Shore Regional Interact is implementing home room challenges every ten days. The kids are then inspired by the competition to bring in the most non-perishable food per home room. Wells Fargo has offered a storage space for food we collect in their basement. Lex then introduced Nicole and Ed.
Ed and Nicole from Morgan Stanley Smith Barney spoke about our government debt, $120 trillion in unfunded liabilities, which includes $83 trillion in Medicare costs. The growth rate of our debt is much higher than the current growth rate of our GDP. The McNamee Wealth Management Group feels that the US must decrease the rate of the debt’s growth by reducing some of the future obligations already promised to the American people. This must happen with great care and over the long term. Ed went on to describe 10 solutions to lower levels of government debt.
Michael Schwartzstein won the 50/50 and the pulled the joker for the progressive.
Giving Thanks Dinner will be Friday 25th 6pm at The Clarion in Toms River
The Lombardi Dinner will be held March 7th at The Sheraton in Eatontown, please start selling your
50/50 raffle tickets. Don’t forget the Rotary Club will get back a portion of the money raised.
Also if you would like to put an ad in the journal please contact Mr. Bill Boglioli
Our Food Drive is going strong we are delivering to Christ the King Parish this week. Keep bringing
the non-perishable food to our weekly meetings.
We did not have a scheduled speaker this week but Len asked J Tango to speak about the logistics that were put in place
at Monmouth Medical anticipating Super Storm Sandy. J explained that the Hospital had a plan in place and considering that
there was no power for a week the Hospital was able to function seamlessly. Congratulations to J and his team, it is due to their
dedication that we have a great Hospital at our doorstep.
J is in the Reserves and was called to duty during the storm. J explained how his unit was able to disperse gasoline to first responders and then the general public from trucks that had been sent to New Jersey from FEMA (no easy task)
J also talked about the fact that it was the first time that they had to feed many people for over a week, three meals a day.
We were all fascinated with the movement of troops their equipment and supplies and did not want J to stop talking!
We will be asking J to speak again! Thank you J for your Service.
Pres. Elect Mika presented Tyler Richards, Habitat for Humanity Board member, with a check for $7,000 to help in the rebuilding after Super Storm Sandy.
Guests: Barb Youchah, Sheraton Eatonton, guest of Mike Ciavolino
Fellow Rotarian from London Ontario, Brian Grebow.
Also his family owns Grebow Paint and Hardware in Toms River. He said that the London Ontario clubs are working on projects in Honduras and Haiti. There are 6 clubs in London.
Annoucements:
Rotary District 7500 Thanks for Giving Dinner is January 25th
Hooper Avenue elementary school in Toms River had a charity fundraiser donating free designer clothing to women who lost their belongings as a result of hurricane sandy
March 7 is the Lombardi Dinner. Bill B. mentioned that Eric Lagrande was being discussed as speaker but that was not yet confirmed.
It was mentioned to sell your raffle tickets for this fundraiser.
Our Food Drive is ongoing thru June
We currently have 50 boxes of food ready to go to the 5 pantries
From the Link Rotary Round Up Column this week:
Rotary Club of Long Branch Foundation Chair Paul Peacock was pleased to announce at our last meeting that our Club Foundation had been awarded a $5,000 Grant from the Investors Savings Bank Foundation.
“This money will go toward helping provide scholarships to Long Branch High School and Shore Regional High School,” said Peacock. “These scholarships are given annually with the awardees being selected by the high schools and the Rotary Club.” The Rotary Club of Long Branch Foundation is an organization, which supports the charitable service efforts of the Rotary Club of Long Branch.
Jack Kearns said that tickets to the Long Branch Concordance "Success Starts at Home" Event are available. The date is
January 24, from 4—7 pm. Tickets are $50 and it should be a great event. For information please contact Lisa Wilson at (732)-571-1670, lisa@lbc4help.org.
Fatima welcomed and wished everyone a Happy New Year.
Announcements: On Friday January 25, 2013 Thanks for Giving Dinner will be held at Clarion Hotel & Conference Center 815 Rt 37 W, Toms River @ 6pm. Tickets are $35 per person or $30 if we have a table of 10.
On Thursday 24, 2013 The Long Branch Concordance will be holding their “Success Starts at Home” fundraiser honoring St James Church and Beatriz Oesterheld. The event will be at St James 300 Broadway Long Branch from 4-7pm
Save the Date for our Art Show it will be held April 25, 2013 at Deal Golf and Country Club.
On Friday February 8th Mr. Salvatore the Superintendent of Schools will be our speaker. Please come to the meeting and spread the word.
The next Board meeting will be held January 21st at 6pm at Investors Bank.
We raised over $6000 at the Habitat for Humanity Sandy Relief Concert at Jacks in Long Branch and will be presenting them a check in the near future.
Don’t forget we are still collecting food till June so bring in non perishable food to the meetings.
21 December, first day of winter, shortest day of the year.
Pres. Elect Mika called the meeting to order at 1215 followed with joyous holiday greetings and wishes.
The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Bob Celli.
The Invocation was given by Paul Peacock.
There were no guests in attendance.
An inquiry was made about the good and welfare of members. There was no response.
Announcements:
The December 9 fundraiser at Jack’s in West End raised a total of $7,000 for the Long Branch Habitat for Humanity to help homeowners in the area rebuild after Hurricane Sandy. $2,000 was raised by the event and $5,000 was donated by Investor’s Bank.
Bob Celli reminded members of the Food collection at Shoprite in West Long Branch on Saturday, 12/22 from 10am-1pm and 1pm-4pm.
Presentation:
Ken Gittell showed 2 films 1) USA- Disaster Relief - Rotary response to Cedar Rapids flood in 2008 and 2) Bridging the Gap- Rotary attracting young members.
Mika commented on the presentation and the potential to connect with schools, students through a monthly forum.
Announcements:
Our Club is donating $500 to New Town, Ct. Rotary Club to help after the massacre.
We now have an ongoing column, started by Mike Ciavolino, in the Link News to make the public aware of who we are and what we do.
The Fire Department has 5 Christmas trees they would like to donate to a family in need. We suggested they contact the Concordance or Furnished with Love to find a family.
A Holiday card was presented to Lisa, our lovely server.
Ken G. showed photos from the Holiday Dinner and last summer’s clam bake which included the Bocce tournament and “Sangria making class”.
Bob Celli won the 50/50 with ticket number 51. Bob drew for the “big pot” progressive worth (est) $3,000,000 pulled the joker and won. Happy Holidays Bob.
Lunch was served with a smile and all members were festive and merry.
Happy “Safe” Holidays
The Meeting was adjourned at 1315 after the serving of dessert, which consisted of French vanilla ice cream topped with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles (aka jimmies)
www.Cancer101.com is a non-profit organization focused on Cancer Patient Advocacy. It was started 10 years ago in NYC.
Cancer101.com partners with patients, care givers and healthcare professionals to offer education and resources in 22 different types of cancer.
Cancer101.com’s main offering is their “Treatment Navigator” – A binder, which offers a personalized education experience, tailored to different factors in their situation, for instance, age, type of cancer, stage of cancer, etc. The Treatment Navigator provides information on their diagnosis, treatment options, how to talk to your healthcare provider, how to manage the insurance process, along with an area to track your journey from diagnosis to treatment to resolution.
The Treatment Navigators are distributor to patients by their healthcare provider, so they can understand risks and benefits of treatments, treatment pathways – it offers a way for the healthcare provider and the patient can engage in an informative discussion, so the patient can feel empowered.
Cancer101.com also partners with other organizations, such as NYU Medical Center and Sloan Kettering, to help patients with their treatment journey – teaching healthcare providers how to educate patients, as well as to keep their educational materials up to date as cancer treatment research evolves.
Cancer101.com is committed to patient outreach and continue to expand their offerings to cover wellness, prevention and early screening. Their emphasis is on the importance of healthcare providers engaging with their patients before, during and after diagnosis.
100k+ Treatment Navigators are being distributed per year – but it could be more, if the infrastructure was in place. Cancer101.com needs funding to help them continue to grow their offering – both in the US and Worldwide.
Because patients learn in different ways, Cancer101.com is looking to expand their online offerings, but market research shows that many patients still prefer the tangible, hard copy Treatment Navigator binder.
Additional efforts include, translation of Treatment Navigator binders into other languages and cultures, with a special pilot being currently worked on for the Hispanic population.
Also, a version of the Navigator, that reaches the cancer survivor population.
Special events include an upcoming gathering in Asbury Park, which will allow family and friends to write letters to their loved ones, and attach them to Japanese lanterns that will be released into the water. Another event will be a global event, which will allow patients from across the world to communicate with other patients and share their experiences and journeys.
Another resource that Cancer101.com is utilizing is the, Med Starter program, which allows people within the cancer community (and outside this community), to set up a goal online, with specific details on how they plan to reach their goal and the amount of funding required for their plan. They are able to upload a video with the details, and either individuals or corporations can provide funding to those goals. Once the goal is achieved, the funders will receive a letter advising them that the goal has been reached and provides them a tax deduction.
In the future, the Managing Directors of Cancer101.com would like to expand their patient education and advocacy to encompass other diseases, including rare diseases and main stream diseases such as Diabetes.
Announcements : We are having a food drive on the 15th and 22nd at Shoprite in West Long Branch. If you would like to sign up please contact Bob Celli.
The Sandy Relief Concert will be held on the 19th at Jack’s Goal Line Stand on Brighton Ave in Long Branch. Please spread the word as all money collected will go directly to Habitat for Humanity.
Guest Speaker: Barbara Hay has spent most of her working life as a creative director in advertising and marketing. Her enthusiasm for the Wine & Spirits Industry led her to expand her wine knowledge and become a sommelier with several advanced and diploma certifications. Through her marketing and design company, Hayseeds Creative, Barbara became a featured wine writer for Currents Magazine. Through her wine education and event planning company, Wineitudes, she produces approximately a dozen seminars and tastings each month in her role as a sommelier and educator. Barbara is also the Administrator of a Blind Wine Tasting Panel Non-Profit organization, Wine I Like It. Barbara can be contacted via email: winepro@wineitudes.com.
Meeting came to order 12:15 Opened by Fatima Camacho with the salute to the flag, followed by the prayer given by Paul Peacock.
Attendees: Fatin Alkhaleel, Brian Berry, Patricia Binkowski, Fatima Camacho, Robert Celli, Michael Ciavolino, Kenneth Gittell, Michael Hayes, Gordon Heggie, Michael Hon, Gerald Kass, Leonard Kiczek, Theodore Panis, Paul Peacock, Al Peskoe, Alwxis Tucci and Jonathan Tango..
Agenda:
Fatima opened with several announcements. First and foremost, with the generous food supplies provided by Investors Savings Bank, the Rotary was able to provide 300 Food Baskets for Thanksgiving to local families.
Guest speaker: Habitat for Humanity. Jim Doran spoke of the local chapter (covering 26 towns) and all that they provide. They are strictly a non-profit organization. Housing, is always top of their list but also critical supplies, clothing, food, blankets etc, that will help to rebuild storm damaged homes and restore lives here in our community. A short film was showed of all the devastation the East Coast had endured throughout the last couple of weeks and how Habitat for Humanity was there to help people piece their lives back together.
Fatima announced the Rotary Club of Long Branch is having a “NIGHT OF MUSIC” to benefit Habitat for Humanity December 19th from 8pm until 2am at Jack’s Goal line Stand, on Brighton Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Come “RESTORE THE SHORE” with Chris Morrisy, George Lazarou, the A.D.D. Band and the Music of Tom and Tony. Tickets (15.00) can be purchased at the door, through www.rclb.bigcartel.com, or Mika Hon/Mike Ciavolino. COME SUPPORT A GREAT CAUSE.
Fatima’s last announcement was the ROTARY CLUB OF LONG BRANCH HOLIDAY PARTY. December 5th at 6PM. Where you ask, Johnny Piancones, 591 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ 07740 25.00 per person /cash bar. Please RSVP Ken Gittell 732.539.3077. PLEASE bring supplies to help out our troops.
Long Branch Rotarians and students from Long Branch Middle School collect food in front of Shoprite, West Long Branch on Saturday 9/17 for local residents in need of food during the Thanksgiving holiday. Last year approximately 700 families benefitted from this effort between November and December.
Scott Seidel, Manager of Stop & Shop in West End presents Pres. Fatima Camacho and Lex Tucci with $250 in gift cards to help the Rotary Food Drive.
As part of our ongoing food drive, Rotary Club of Long Branch President Fatima Camacho accompanied by Alexis Tucci presents a check for $2,000 along with boxes of food to Peter Matteo and Lucy Perez of St Michael’s, St. Vincent de Paul Society for their food pantry. The Long Branch Rotary Club and Investor’s Bank have presented 5 other pantries with checks of $2000 each: Christ the King Parish, 2nd Ave Baptist Church, St. James, St Luke’s, and the Lutheran Church of the Reformation.
New member Michael Longo is inducted into the Club by Pres. Fatima and Lex Tucci
Pledge: Roger
Prayer: Paul
Welcomed Guests: Michael DeJean
Speaker, Dr. Saliba Sarsar, Professor of Political Science and Associate Vice President for Global Initiatives, Monmouth University
Announcements:
ØNew Member, Michael Longo pinned by Lex Tucci
ØMika – Speaks about a possible Benefit concernt for area victims impacted by Super Storm Sandy.
Event Details to date:
- To be held at Jack’s Goaline Stand Brighton Avenue Long Branch
- Will Benefit Habitat for Humanity, Northeast Monmouth County Chapter
- Initial tentative date was Nov 29. New tentative date is either December 18, or 19
- $15 per person admission fee
ØBob spoke about collecting food donations at Shop Rite in West Long Branch 10 am – 1pm and 1pm – 4pm on Saturday, November 18th. Volunteers were requested.
ØThe Club Holiday Party will be December 6th at Johnny Piancone
Fatin Alkhaleel and Pres. Fatima Camacho with guest speaker Dr. Sarsar
Speaker Recap:
Dr Sarsar is professor of political science and associate vice president for academic program initiatives at Monmouth University.
Dr. Sarsar received the Humanitarian Award from the National Conference for Community and Justice in 2001.
In 2003, Sarsar was featured in The New York Times, "His Mission: Finding Why People Fight-A Witness to Mideast Conflict Turns to Dialogue and Peace." In 2006, he was featured in New Jersey Jewish News, "Professor Promotes Programs for Peace," pages 7, 12.
He is co-editor of Principles and Pragmatism: Key Documents from the American Task Force on Palestine (2006) and guest editor of a special issue of the International Journal of Politics, Culture, and Society, focusing on Palestinian-Israeli relations (2004). He is also co-author of two books: Ideology, Values, and Technology in Political Life (1994) and World Politics: An Interdisciplinary Approach (1995), and is editor of Education for Leadership and Social Responsibility 1996).
Dr Sarsar spoke about how the challenges for the US in how it will relate to Isreal with its self-interest in Security and how they will deal with new regimes in the Middle East.
He also said that the US must play a role in helping develop peaceful solutions in the region.
Dr Sarsar heads up the “Monmouth University Dialogue Project” The group meets on a regular basis to examine issues of mutual concern, discuss relevant books, attend multicultural events, visit Arab and Jewish cultural and religious sites, and use its voice and touch to generate positive change in community.
Several boxes of food that was collected by the Club was taken to the t St Vincent de Paul Society food pantry at St Michael’s Church.
RCLB Board meeting will be on Tuesday, 10/23 6pm at Investor’s Bank.
Lex Tucci has scheduled Rob Sheppard, Head Baseball Coach at Seton Hall, and Assistant Athletic Director Brian Felt to be our guest speakers at the 11/2 Club meeting.
Ken LePosa requested that members bring items that our active service members are in need of and also service members in the Veteran’s Hospitals. We will collect these items at the RCLB Holiday party on December 5th at Piancones.
Margot Vazquez gave us some highlights of her trip to Italy.
SCAVI Tours – Under St Peter’s Bascilica where the walls are over 2,000 years old. It is the place where St Peter’s tomb was found.
Sienna – Neighbors sponsor horses for the Horse Race and celebrate for months. Young women wear colors and pacifiers to symbolize rebirth. The horses are blessed in the church.
Gordon Heggie gave some highlights of camping trip to Assateague Island, Maryland.
Gordon, Anna, Stephanie, Ken, and another couple camped on the beach at Assateague.
It was a beautiful place with large sand dunes and wild ponies. The weather was great and the food cooked outside added to the fun.
Years ago the ponies were brought to the island to avoid taxes based on the number of horses a person owned. They would be rounded up after the tax collector was gone and brought back to the mainland. Some would inevitably be left behind and they would breed. There are now approximately 150 horses on the island. They are very used to people but are wild animals and can be dangerous.
We took the Lewes-Cape May Ferry back to NJ, a beautiful 1 ½ hr trip. We had lunch in Cape May and returned home. A Great mini vacation.
Meeting came to order 12:15. Opened by Fatima Camacho followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Prayer by Paul Peacock.
Attendees: Brian Berry, Patricia Binkowski, Fatima Camacho, Robert Celli, Michael Ciavolino, Paul Dement, Roger Hansen, Michael Hayes, Michael Hon, Gerald Kass, Leonard Kiczek, Paul Peacock, Alfdred Peskoe, Jonathan Tango, Alexis Tucci.
Agenda: Fatima opened with the announcement of the Ronald McDonald House BBQ hosted on October 21, 2012. Fatima asked for volunteers to work the grill, so far we have three but could use one more. Roger stepped up to the plate. You go Roger!!!
Brian Berry reported next on the WAVE OF HOPE event at the school. Even through the in climate weather, the event pulled in a wonderful $1300.00. Good Going Brian. He also thanked everyone that gave him a hand on making it a GREAT Day!
Lex Tucci approached Fatima about the possibility to start a food collection day for the holidays. Fatima announced that she asked Pat Binkowski to reach out to Fine Fare in Long Branch for a day we could have a food collection monthly. Pat Binkowski reported that we could stand in front of Fine Fare on Saturday mornings for one weekend in Oct , Nov & Dec. It was also brought up that why stop at December, just do it for the holidays, when people are hungry all year long. Pat met with the gentleman from Fine Fare and the final consensus is let’s do it all year long. This was confirmed with Fine Fare and am happy to announce that Starting Oct 27 we will be outside of Fine Fare 10-4, thereafter every SECOND MONDAY OF THE MONTH. SOOOO!@## MIKA get our paperwork in order and we will hit the streets. A suggestion was made that we provide bi-lingual flyers. The proceeds of these collections with be given to various local church’s for the underprivileged. Some of those churches will be Second Baptist, St James, Lutheran Church of Broadway and St. Michaels church.
Speaker: NONE
50-50 WINNER : Roger Hansen. (He can finally make his mortgage on time)
Meeting came to order 12:15 by Fatima Camacho with the salute of the Flag led by Al Peskoe, followed by the prayer given by Paul Peacock.
Attendees: Al Peskoe, Ken Gittell, Len Kiczek, Margo Vazquez, Michael Hayes, Patricia Binkowski, Paul Dement, Paul Peacock, Diane Zuchnik, Fatin Alkhaleel, Brian Berry, Robert Celli, Ted Friedli, Roger Hansen, Gorden Heggie, Gerald Kass, Dennis Kotch, Michael Schwartzstein, Alexis Tucci
Agenda:
Fatima announced that the Annual Car Wash took place. Sad to say the turnout for this event was weak. $100.00 profit was made. Fatima reiterated the importance of everyone pitching in to help wherever and whenever possible.
Fatima encouraged Board members to review the club by-laws sample that was sent out, make notes on any changes that might be needed. The Board will discuss the changes at the next Board meeting and a rough draft will be submitted to Lex Tucci to complete and send back to the Board for final approval.
Ken Gittell announced that he and Mike Ciavolino, are working on several public relations items. One of which is an RCLB bookmarker to be available free at local libraries with our club’s contact info on it and a QR code that would allow people with Smart Phones to view a short video about Rotary..
Brian Berry informed everyone about the Wave of Hope Fall Festival event on October 7 from 2-5. Brian asked if anyone could give and hour or two it would be great appreciated.
St Michael’s Food drive is coming soon. More info to follow.
Ronald McDonald house is having a function, Sunday, Oct 21,2012 1-4 SAVE THE DATE details to follow
District Conference 2013 ‐ April 26‐28, 2013 ‐ Grand Hotel 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, New Jersey 08204
Join Governor Joan & our District 7500
family for a weekend of Fellowship and
Rotary at the Grand Hotel in Cape May, NJ
Fellow Rotarians
District 7500 had a great time at our conference in 2009 and we expect it to be
even better in 2013. Cape May is one of the greatest places in NJ to visit.
It is rich with history including the many Victorian homes, lighthouses and to
many landmarks to list. Cape May draws visitors from around the world
and was recognized as one of America's top 10 beaches by the Travel
Channel.
Not into history? How about taking a trolley tour, Visiting Cape May Point State
Park, going to the Cape May County Park and Zoo or participating in a walking
tour? Do you like to Golf? Then the District 7500 Golf Tournament at Cape May
National is a must. You could also visit the Cape May Winery or even take the
Cape May‐Lewes Ferry to nearby Rehoboth Beach (shopping). You could also
visit the many shops within walking distance of the hotel.
The Grand Hotel is noted for its food and hospitality. There will also be great
fellowship, speakers and plenary sessions throughout the weekend. Please
visit our website and download the conference and golf applications for more
information. If you would like a speaker from the conference committee to
visit your club, please contact me either by e‐mail or phone. Please note that
if you pay in full before December 1, 2012, we have kept the conference cost
at 2008‐2009 prices.
Dan Cortese
District Conference Chair
Past District Governor, 2008‐09
dan@dcortese.com
609/290‐5770
For more conference information, visit www.rotary7500.org
Rotarians hard at work washing cars at Oceanport Port Au Peck Firehouse on Myrtle Ave. Saturday , September 15th. Volunteers were Pres. Fatima Camacho, Diane Zuchnik, Fatin Alkhaleel and son, Gordon & Anna Heggie with 3 young friends, Mike Ciavolino and his 3 children, Amanda Guglielmo, and Ken & Stephanie Gittell.
Tiros School for the Handicapped Carwash Fundraiser
Long Branch Rotarians:(L to R) Margot Vazquez, Fatima Camacho, Fatin Alkhaleel, Amanda Guglielmo, Diane Zuchnik
Pleadge of Allegiance: Dr Kass
Blessing/ Invocation: Paul Peacock
Announcements: NID trip to India is being organized, a date has not yet been determined however if you are interested please go to District 7500 website.
Save the date for District fellowship weekend in Cape May April 26-28th 2013
Car Wash for the Handicapp school in Tiros 9/15 from 10am-3pm
Please volunteer and spread the word
Sept 15.2012 Excel Travel Ocean Avenue Mile come join in the fun for a wonderful cause.
Wave of Hope needs volunteers for the Columbus Day Carnival
more information to follow.
Speaker: Today there is no speaker as Ken Gittell is showing a video on the History of Women in Rotary and one on youth vocational training
Our final fundraiser for the Tiros, Brazil School for the Handicapped will be a carwash on Saturday, September 15, 10am at the Oceanport Firehouse on Port Au Peck. We need volunteers to help wash cars.
Contact Gordon Heggie at flash5428@aol.com or Ken Gittell at khgittell@comcast.net
Tiros School for the Handicapped Car wash Fundraiser
Guest Speaker, Charles Fleisher, and Club President Fatima Camacho
Meeting came to order 12:15. Opened by Fatima Camacho with the salute to the flag lead by Al Peskoe, followed by the prayer by Paul Peacock.
Attendees:
A. Peskoe, Len Kiczek, Ted Friedli, Brian Berry, Gordon Heggie, Paul Peacock, Ken Gittell, Paul Dement, Gerald Kass, Mike Ciavolino, Roger Hansen, Patricia Binkowski, Theodore Panis. Guests: Vincent Lombardo, Charles Fleisher, Marcy Ansell
Agenda:
Fatima Camacho discussed Rotary’s last international event of the year. It is on Sept 15, 2012 the Annual Car Wash. Fatima reached out to all the Rotarians to make an effort to support this event. Any help would be greatly appreciated. It was also mentioned that the Barry Stein of the Long Branch Chamber of Commerce, offered the Chamber’s help in promoting Rotary whenever needed.
Guest Speaker: Charles Fleisher “THE OPPORTUNITIES GUY”. Charles is a motivational speaker, his topic “Four steps for turning Tragedies and Difficulties into Opportunities. Charles is a paraplegic working thorough adversity. Charles also brought his book along to purchase.
Louis Rodriguez, Gordon Heggie, Pres. Fatima Camacho, Mika Hon, Bob Celli
The RCLB Clamdiggers fought a pitched battle with Asbury Park Rotary in a tight Bocce match to bring home the coveted Golden Clam Trophy. With sweat and tears they made our club the proud home of this majestic symbol of victory for the next 12 months. The Clamdiggers are already thinking about thinking of preparing for battle once again for the right to keep the Golden Clam for another year. The Asbury team fought a hard fight but were no match for the strength, endurance and commitment of the Clamdiggers. Let’s wait and see what Asbury comes back with next year. Bring it on Asbury.
Great food, fantastic beverages brewed up by the Sangria committee, beautiful gift baskets, fun and games with lots of participation made for another successful Clambake.
Thank you to Roger Hansen and the Clambake Committee for a great evening.
RCLB CLAMDIGGERS WIN FIRST ANNUAL BOCCE TOURNAMENT
Meeting came to order 12:15 Opened by Fatima Camacho with the salute of the flag, followed by the prayer given by Paul Peacock.
Attendees: Al Peskoe, Ken Gittell, Michael Hon, Michael Hayes, Patricia Binkowski, Fatima Camacho, Ted Friedli, Ted Panis, Roger Hansen, Gerald Kass, Gordon Heggie, Robert Celli, Paul Dement, Amada Guglielmo and Margot Vazquez.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Michael Rushnak
Agenda: Fatima Camacho opened with details about the Art Auction/Sale Event which was held at the Deal Country Club on July 18th. Fatima said under the circumstances with the weather/road closings etc. We the “Rotary” pulled it off AGAIN with a net profit of about 1500.00. Not to “Shabby” considering “lights were optional”. Word to the wise “Never leave home without a candle”. Roger Hansen followed with the committee meeting details held on the Clambake function to be held August 9th, 2012.
Dr. Michael Rushnak, our guest speaker, spoke on Mental Illness and the effects it has not only in personal life, but also in today’s workplace. He also brought the first two books of the trilogy on hand for purchase. “We”as a group agreed that Roger would make great research for his next book.
The Clambake is coming up really fast. I will need a head count for Tuzzio by next Tuesday. That is only one week from today and today is gone. We need all who are coming to purchase tickets NOW! If you have family and friends coming, this would be the weekend to get tickets to them or get them to the website. Mika has tickets and they will be there on Friday for you.
Mika spent considerable time and effort to set up a PayPal site to enable us to dispense tickets on-line. I bought mine on line and it works great ( www.rclb.bigcartel.com). The committee is working very hard to make the event a success. Please help us by purchasing and selling tickets ASAP.
Today we had no speaker as it was a Club Assembly meeting.
Announcements:
Gift of Life Annual Meeting will be at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center
Monday Aug 20.2012
NJ Vocational Assembly will be held October 1, 2012 at the Pines Manor in Edison.
Jay Tango was inducted as a member to the Long Branch Rotary Club by Past President Len Kiczek. Jay is employed by Monmouth Medical, is a LT. Colonel in the Reserves, a part time musician and married with 2 children. Jay welcome and thank you for your service to our Country it is an honor to have you as a Long Branch Rotary Member.
Roger spoke about the Clambake on August 9,2012 at 5pm. Brian Berry and the CB committee is organizing a Bocce team that will challenge Asbury Park Rotary team. There is talk about a trophy that resembles the Stanley Cup ???
It is sure to be a great time with good food friends and of course the famous "Sangria"
Brian Berry presented the Rotary Club with a check for $1,485 from the Lombardi Dinner. Brian also announced that he can no longer be the representative for LBRC and asked for a volunteer to replace his position at the Lombardi Committee. Bill Boglioli has accepted to take his place. Thank you Brian for your commitment over the last couple of years.
Mika reported on the success of the Art Show at Deal Golf & Country Club. A big "Thank you" to everyone who worked hard to make it a great evening, and to Bill Boglioli for facilitating the use of a beautiful venue. After our Board Meeting we will have the final dollar amount raised.
Ted Panis suggested that on the Fridays we do not have a formal meeting due to a Holiday or Event during the week to still hold a round table meeting for members who would like to come to lunch and to welcome any visiting Rotarians that might also show up at Rooneys.
Ken Gittell showed videos on projects that other Rotary Clubs do to get a conversation going about what we can do to help our community. The Videos were very informative and has us all thinking of ways to get involved in giving back.
Pres. Fatima Camacho Welcomed the guests: District Governor Joan Vas; Denise Bonbaou, Red Bank Rotary; Mark Balsam, Belmar-Wall Rotary, Josh Feinberg, RYLA student; Anne Feinberg, Lindsey Feinberg.
Joan Vas spoke about the podium that Roger Hansen built and how he might be able to take orders from other clubs.
Joan started visiting Long Branch Rotary about 9 years ago and feels very comfortable with our Club.
She asked if we sponsor a Dictionary Project and suggested that if we do we should have the students who receive them write a letter to a service person.
The District Conference in May 2013 will be in Cape May and the theme will be the movie Casablanca.
Joan wants to help every Club president in the District win a Presidential Citation by them sponsoring a Peace Conference for Middle School Children.
Rotary District 7500 Gift of Life Foundation Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, August20, 2012, 6pm. Location: The Clarion Hotel and Conference Center (formerly the Quality Inn). 815 Route 37 West, Toms River. They will acknowledge the new RI presidents them of Peace Through Service.
Joan inducted new member Amanda Guglielmo. Amanda resides in Monmouth Beach. She works for P\S\L Group which is a global organization dedicated to putting information at the service of medicine. The companies and people of P\S\L Group aim to improve medical care by serving those who need it, those who provide it and those who seek to improve it.
Their clients include research based pharmaceutical companies and othe healthcare institutions who seek the advancement of medicine. Their primary business purpose is to help these clients increase effectiveness, as well as lower the cost ofr activities pertaining to scientific communication, medical education or product/service marketing.
Welcome to the Rotary club of Long Branch Amanda.
High school student Josh Feinberg spoke about his experience at RYLA. He spoke of the confidence it instilled in him, the camaraderie and teamwork developed during the program and how it changed him in a very positive way. He was very grateful for the opportunity to participate in the program
Foundation - Paul Peacock
Club Service - Roger Hansen
Membership - Bill Boglioli & Margot Vazquez
Community service - Bob Celli
Vocational Service - Bob Celli
International Service - Gordon Heggie
Public Relations - Michael Ciavolino
Scholarship - Dennis Kotch Website - Ken Gittell
Lex Tucci read Rev. Al Acer's Litany of Expections before swearing in the 2012-2013 Club Officers at the Installation Dinner held at Johnny Piancone's restuarant. Left to right in photo are: Vice President, Brian Berry; Ken Gittell, Secretary; Fatima Camacho, President, Len Kiczek, Treasurer; and Mika Hon, President Elect.
Past Pres. Len presented some members with Presidential Citations in recognition of meritorious service and for furthering the principles and ideals of the Rotary way of life. Pres. Fatima thanked Past Pres. Len and the Board for their service in 2011-2012.
Once again the food at Piancone's was great as well as the atmosphere and service. Everyone had a great time, good conversation, some laughs and plenty to eat and drink.
Announcements: Mika and his committee have been working hard for the Art Show at the Deal Golf and Country Club. It will be on July 18th from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. We need your help to sell tickets and sponsorships please tell your friends and family it is going to be a great evening of Art and fellowship.
The Clambake committee is starting to plan this years event for August 9th. (Save the date)
We had no speaker this week but everyone seemed to have a nice time getting to know a little more about each other.
FUN FACT: The first Rotary Club was founded by Paul Harris, a lawyer, in 1905 in Chicago. 
or visit us during weekly Friday meetings at 
New member Preston Spencer (R) is welcomed into the club by (L-R) David Brown, Terry Janeczyk, and Club President Mike Schwartzstein.
Edward Thomas (L), president of the local chapter of the Association of the United States Army, spoke at the club's Friday lunch meeting.
Guest speaker Gary Oliveri gave a very informative presentation on the history of the Red Cross, internationally and nationally. He also covered many of their programs including blood services, emergency preparedness education, home fire campaign, Holidays for Heroes, Military and Veteran Caregiver Network, CPR and first aid training, disaster relief, and international humanitarian services to name just a few.
Ann Burian speaks about Ronald McDonald House to Rotarians at their weekly lunch meeting at Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant.
Club President Michael Schwartzstein (right) thanks Shore House Executive Director, Richard Ambrosino and Bailey Taft for their presentation.
RCGLB President Gordon Heggie presents donation to Debbie Keszler, Food Pantry Director at Lutheran Church - Reformation
Food pick-up at Lutheran Church - Reformation food pantry
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Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch President Walt Thistlewaite thanks guest speakers Reggie and Yvette Anderson, founders of MTN Organization. Meet the Need is a NJ based Non- Profit Organization whose primary goal is to meet the need of those less fortunate, who have fallen on hard times or temporarily need assistance. They support children, elderly, families, special needs, Veterans and individuals who are economically disadvantaged
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Long Branch Rotarians, Ken Gittell, Gordon Heggie, and club president Luciana Silva, delivering food to the Holy Trinity Church food pantry on May 2nd.
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