Stories

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.

• 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.

New member Preston Spencer (R) is welcomed into the club by (L-R) David Brown, Terry Janeczyk, and Club President Mike Schwartzstein.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Pledge: Al Pescoe 

Prayer: Mike Ciavolino 

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.

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 2^nd 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.

A “Super Sized” Thank You

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

Don’t Miss The Rotary Club’s Clam Bake

Pledge of Allegiance - Al Peskoe

Invocation - Paul Peacock

Meeting chaired by Pres. Mika Hon

Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch

 kicks off Summer in a Big Way.

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.

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PAINT PARTY! Rotarians and Friends Paint the Ronald McDonald House on June 21^st. ​

                        RONALD McDONALD GETS A NEW FACE

Over the weekend’s of June 14th and June 21^st, 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.

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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.

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CLAM BAKE 2014

* Pledge: Brian Berry

* Invocation: Paul

Announcements:

* 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 21^st/22^nd. A sign up sheet was passed around for volunteers.

• The Induction dinner is June 19^th 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 15^th 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 19^th 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.

Tickets can be purchased online at rclb.bigcartel.com

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 14^th. 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 15^th 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 19^th.  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.
•  Attire is business casual. 
• Tickets can be purchased at rclb.bigcartel.com.
• 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.

Paul Peacock was the winner of the 50/50 drawing.

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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 7^th.
• The Club will participate in the Long Branch Car Show this year on June 15^th 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 19^th.  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.

Tyler Richards won the 50/50

KCO deliverers another KO to Cancer.

by Mike Ciavolino

Once again this year, they ran.

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 25^th to April 27^th 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 19^th 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.

-          

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 23^rd 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 8^th at 7pm and continuing until August 24^th

·        Thursday by the Sea on Thursdays at Festival Plaza in Pier Village starting June 12^th at 7:00pm through August 28^th.

·        Wednesdays in West End at the West End Bandshell June 25^th and July 30^th

·        Art in the Park in West End Park on May 25th

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 (2^nd from r) and Rotary District Governor Sheila Vinton ® at the Club’s 3^rd Annual Art Show.

3^RD ANNUAL ART SHOW: Club Members Dr. Tyler Richards (l) and Ms. Fatin Alklaleel working at the Club’s annual show at Deal Country Club.

3^rd Annual Club Art Show scores big for Special Education

On Thursday April 10^th 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.

HAPPY 70^th BIRTHDAY ROGER HANSEN!: On Wednesday, April 16^th 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.

3^rd Annual Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Art Show

 The Club’s 3^rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10^th 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

Pledge by Al Peskoe

Invocation by Paul Peacock

50/50 winner was Barb Youchah

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 28^th 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.

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

3^rd Annual Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Art Show

The Club’s 3^rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10^th 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.

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 6^th 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 42^nd 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 6^th.

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 7^th 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.

Guest speaker Amy Zambrano, Amy's Yogabilities

Amy’s Yogabilities – Yoga for all ages and abilities

On Friday March 14^th 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.

3^rd Annual Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch Art Show

The Club’s 3^rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10^th 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.

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 3^rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10^th 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.

Pres. Mika Hon, Joe Tordella, and Alexis Tucci

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Art Show Cometh

The Club’s 3^rd Annual Art Show will be held on Thursday, April 10^th 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 25^th 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 10^th 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 15^th.  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. 

Gordon Heggie won the 50/50

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 25^th 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 6^th 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.

Long Branch Mayor, Adam Schneider

Long Branch Rotary Club welcomes Mayor Schneider

On Friday, January 17^th, 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 29^th 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 24^th, 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 28^th. 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 27^th 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 1^st.  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 1^st.  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 6^th 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 15^th.

-         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 19^th.

-          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 27^th.

-         Lex Tucci announced that there will be an Intercity Rotary Brunch Meeting held on March 1^st 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 1^st 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. 23^rd and 24^th) 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 12^th beginning at 6:00pm at Johnny Piancones.  The cost will be $25 each and please RSVP.

-         March 6^th 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 2^nd – 4^th 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.

Al Peskoe lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

Paul Peacock gave the Invocation.

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 2^nd week in December at Piancone’s

·        Happy Hour tonight – 1^st Friday of November

Paul Dement introduced Paul Brown, 8^th 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 1^st of this year, he became the 8^th 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.”

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).

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 13^th 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.

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 24^th.

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

• Monmouth University – West Long Branch

• Shore Creative Group – 176 Broadway Long Branch

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 Fatin Alkhaleel won the 50/50

Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Paul Peacock gave the Invocation.

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.

Club Food Drive for the Holidays

Monmouth Beach Bash

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 13^th 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.

      WELCOME BARB!  Our newest member Barb Youchah is proudly welcomed into our Club by Club President Mika Hon.

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.

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 24^th.

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

• Monmouth University – West Long Branch

• Shore Creative Group – 176 Broadway Long Branch

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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 13^th 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.

Until We Meet Again

Interested in finding out about what’s going on at Pier Village? Then attend our Friday October 25^th 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 13^th 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 19^th beginning at 9:00am at Pier Village. We are hoping to have a team of Rotarians there to help.

Al Peskoe led the Pledge of Allegiance

Len Kiczek gave the Invocation.

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.

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 2^nd and 3^rd 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.

Long Branch Public Library Champions Dinner

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.

Pledge of Allegiance lead by Al Peskoe.

Invocation given by Paul Peacock.

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 27^th, 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.

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!

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Continued prayers for Tyler Richards and family

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.