Arnone Report : Engaging Monmouth County’s youth for a happy holiday and bright future

By Tom Arnone, Monmouth County Freeholder

Freeholder Tom Arnone and students of Academy Charter High School

Happy Holidays! I hope everyone has been having a happy and healthy holiday season while keeping warm.

It’s clear – winter is here. I would like to thank all of our County employees who assisted in the preparation and cleanup of the recent snow events we had here in Monmouth County. I know our County employees are prepared for what may come our way the rest of the season.

In the last few weeks I have had the opportunity to visit with students at a few different schools, including Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Asbury Park and Academy Charter High School in Lake Como. I always enjoy engaging in conversations with our youth about civics and government. It is my hope that these students become involved in their own communities.

I am also proud to announce another milestone in my healthy eating initiative with students from Colts Neck and Asbury Park. As you may know, students from each school district have been attending weekly trips to Allaire Community Farm in Wall Township, where they come together to learn more about healthy eating, the farming process and team work.

As part of the program, these two school districts will have their own gardens on campus that the students can take care of throughout the year. Eventually, these students will then pass on the responsibilities to their younger peers.

As such, two garden dedication ceremonies were planned at each school district this week to officially mark the start of their on-campus gardening. Students will be growing vegetables and herbs with the help from their teachers and guidance from Sean Burney at Allaire Community Farm. I’d like to thank Sean for all of his help with this program and his assistance to the school districts. The students are truly enjoying learning and eating healthy.

Lastly, I would like to say that is has been an absolute pleasure and honor to serve as a Freeholder in Monmouth County. It’s hard to believe another year has passed that I have had this incredible opportunity. However, I would be remiss if I thank all of the County’s employees for their hard work throughout the year. It is because of them Monmouth County is truly a great place to live and raise a family.

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season and happy new year. I look forward to what 2018 has to offer!