2008 At A Glance


2009 AT A GLANCE
By Maria Wojciechowski, Executive Director

1Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park Aquatic Play Structures - $12,000
 Tony’s Place, located within Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, Long Branch, is an all access playground.  This facility was designed to allow children with and without disabilities the opportunity to play side by side. Aquatic creatures beckon children to join them as they frolic by the waves.

 

1Thompson Park Visitor Center Permanent Exhibit & Audio/Visual Center - $8,000
The Cottonwood Room in the newly constructed Thompson Park Visitor Center, Lincroft, now has a permanent exhibit thanks to the Friends of the Parks.  This comprehensive exhibit features precious artifacts and images that tell the tale of Brookdale Farm and Thompson Park’s past, present, and future.  In addition, the Friends has funded an audio-visual center in the Main Program Room of the Visitor Center.

 

1Tatum Park Red Hill Road Activity Center
Bertha Heath Exhibit - $2,843
The Friends has replaced two existing display cases at the Bertha Heath Center at Tatum Park.  These cases house exhibits about Clinton Heath, a former slave who settled in Middletown’s Red Hill area.  The exhibit also acknowledges the contributions of African Americans to the rich history of Monmouth County.  Future exhibits will highlight the various ethnic and cultural groups who have played a role in the growth of our county.

___________________________________________________________________

2009 Approved Projects

Seabrook-Wilson House, Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth - $28,000
Phase I of funding has been approved for the fabrication and installation of exhibits at the Seabrook Wilson House.  This project includes exhibits on the history of the house and the Bayshore community, and the ecology of the Bayshore region in four rooms.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel - $1,000         
Funding has been approved for a custom made dump cart harness.  The farm currently has a functional dump cart and the appropriate tasks, but no working harness. 

Low Challenge Course, Thompson Park, Lincroft - $3,300            
Funding was approved for the modification of the Mohawk Walk on the Low
Challenge Course.  In addition, the Hickory Jump was relocated from the trees to poles.

1

 

Camp Scholarships and Programs for Urban Youth - $10,173
The Friends continues to support the Recreation Assistance Program (RAP), by providing 20 scholarships for children from Monmouth County’s urban communities.  These campers are able to participate in weeklong summer camps (including door-to-door transportation), summer concerts, boat tours, farm tours, and programs at the Park System’s Coastal Activity Center in Asbury Park.  Proceeds from our Annual RAP Appeal supported this effort.  Special thanks to all who gave!

 

1

 

Holiday Trip and Dinner Dance for
Individuals with Disabilities - $1,505
In November, the Friends were once again very proud to sponsor the Annual Therapeutic Recreation Formal Dinner Dance at Tatum Park.  What a delightful evening!  Also in November, the Friends sponsored a trip for 28 participants and chaperones to see Disney on Ice – Celebrations.  

 

 

1

 

Volunteer Events, National Trails Day Luncheon and Holiday Cards - $1,175
The Friends are proud to show our appreciation for the volunteers of the Monmouth County Park System.  We sponsor the National Trails Day Luncheon on the first Saturday in June, provide dessert at the Annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon in April, and pay for the Thanksgiving cards and postage.