The Arnone Report: A busy November in Monmouth County

Monmouth County Freeholder Director Tom Arnone

By Monmouth County Freeholder Director Tom Arnone

As we continue to celebrate November as Military Family Month, I would like to again thank all those who have served our country. It is important we remember every day the commitment and sacrifices made by these men and women. We’re the land of the free because of the brave. I observed Veteran’s Day at a touching ceremony in Manalapan.

November has been a very busy month for me and I would like to share what I have been up to around the County.

I’m excited to announce the Board of Chosen Freeholders invite all Monmouth County fourth-grade students to participate in an essay contest to help name our very own Monmouth County Recycling Mascot. Letters have been sent to principals throughout the County, asking them to encourage their teachers and students to participate. Our hope is that teachers can incorporate classroom instruction or activities involving recycling to encourage and inspire these students as they brainstorm ideas for the mascot’s name and adventure.

A talented fourth grader will name Monmouth County’s Recycling mascot

The first-, second- and third-place winners will be honored at a Freeholder Meeting at the Hall of Records in Freehold. The winning essays will also be used for future coloring books featuring the mascot. All essay submissions should be mailed by December 21 to: Recycling Essay Contest, C/O Dept. of Public Information & Tourism, Hall of Records Annex, 1 East Main Street, Freehold, NJ 07728. The winners will be selected and notified by January 31, 2019.

On another school-related note, I would like to congratulate the Brookdale Community College women’s soccer team on their recent season. The team recently took the third-place title at the NJCAA Division III women’s soccer national tournament in Rockford, Ill. The team finished the 2018 season with an overall record of 16-2. Congratulations to the team and coaches on a great season and for proudly representing Monmouth County.

I would also like to take the time to thank everyone who helped me support the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore when I competed in their Dancing With Our Monmouth and Ocean County Stars event last week. This fun event, which included me breaking out my dancing shoes, served as a fundraiser for a great cause. Proceeds from this event will benefit the nearly 11,000 Girl Scouts in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Lastly, I must thank my dance partner, Mary Neil, and all the help from Ashley Mills, of the Ashley Lauren Foundation.

On a separate note, I would like to mention that our Department of Public Works and Engineering is gearing up for another winter season and potential storms. By preparing now, and over the last few weeks, we are making sure we are ready for whatever comes our way. As always, our main priority is the safety of our residents and those who travel through the County. As liaison to this department, I personally can say how proud I am to have such an excellent team of dedicated employees who work hard to keep all of us safe during inclement weather.

Also, as the weather turns colder, I would like to remind everyone about our upcoming Mini Made in Monmouth. The annual event returns from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 2^nd at Covered Bridge Ballroom, located at 1 Amberly Drive in Manalapan. This is a great opportunity to come out and holiday shop all while supporting local vendors!

Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving!