Are We on a Slippery Slope?

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October 21, 2026

“I think it is time to realize we are heading down a very slippery slope, if we don’t act now and don’t defy the “Politically Correct Crowd” immediately, we are doomed as a nation.”

The official who said this in his speech at his swearing in as Mayor was sharply criticized at the time, the speech was termed ridiculous and it was asked “is this how Hitler got elected?” On top of that, another person said “I’m out of here if this kook gets even half his way” and yet another said “you are going to have to watch him very carefully.”

The year this was all said was in 2008. The Mayor was Fred Rast, and the town was Atlantic Highlands.

Former Atlantic Highlands Mayor, Fred Rast

Coming across a copy of this speech made it seem in many ways that it could have been given today as well. Rast also said that while he was happy and it was a joyous day, he also said “I feel troubled and am afraid for the future.”

“We live in an environment where so many citizens continually do everything they can to detract from our country’s greatness.” He went on to explain. “They constantly fight fault in the USA and praise the rest of the world. They blame us, the USA, for the world’s ills, when the truth is, that we as Americans do more for the rest of humanity than any other nation.”

Rast’s talk was long at his swearing in. But he also showed that he led the town in a by-partisan manner. While his party had the majority of seats on the governing body, there were two seats held by the opposing party. And Rast named one of those two to be council president.

And because of the differences of opinion, but the willingness to listen and learn from a variety of points of view, during his term the Democrats and Republicans built the new borough hall, improved the municipal Harbor, built the skate park, as well as the new soccer field. They also upgraded the water department, buildings, increased safety features for the department, built a new well and repaired that million gallon water tank .

If you ask him about any of these conditions today, he’ll tell you “Success was not due to me, “ he’ll say he just said these were some of the things they were going to do, Then they did them. He’ll point out that 18 years ago the borough had the best employees possible, and today, the borough still has the best employees of anyplace around. “They’re Americans and they take pride in their work and helping their neighbor,” he’ll tell you.

But he still remembers predicting 18 years ago that it is sickening when “a small group complains because a town may endorse or support a traditional Christian, Jewish, Muslin or any other religious event” and told residents of that time that “we cannot bow to their pressure … we must stand strong and say it is time for the majority to win, not the minority.”

He was critical of useless laws … laws, he said were sometimes created to give a legislator a name. As an example, he questioned why there has to be a law about holding a cell phone while driving, but not a law against putting on make-up, or reading or eating while driving. They’re all wrong, he pointed out and all are covered by careless and reckless driving violations that have existed for years..

He said in 2008 that he was fearful because of the idea that “when a person takes a gun and kills people, it’s the gun manufacturer’s fault for making the gun and likened it to “someone putting hot coffee between their legs while driving, getting burned and thinks it isn’t his fault. “It’s the company who sold the hot coffee to them.”

“The clear thinking majority has to speak up, and the madness must stop!” Mayor Rast said in 2008.

He concluded with his reasons for wanting to be mayor,. “I want to bring back common sense in government … I am Fred Rast, a local town boy who was elected mayor … I guarantee I’m going to make some people unhappy about the way I provide leadership,” he said. But added, I pledge I will accomplish things that have to be done. I won’t micro-manage the operations of the town … the professionals know better than I do…”

Then, referring to the bipartisan council he added,”we are no longer representing a political party … we represent all citizens … give us time and we will keep our town solvent and a wonderful place to live.”

His promises included that he and council would work hard “to make Atlantic Highlands as a destination place, attract and keep businesses in town and bring customers to those businesses. We will enhance First Avenue and home-based businesses to provide local jobs, continue to pay taxes, provide services locally and reduce property taxes. “

Most must have appreciated his talk. He was elected again and served eight years as mayor in addition to other years as a member of council

Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery

Fundraiser Shrewsbury Historical Society

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 21, 2026

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Fundraiser — The photo of Buttonwood was a gift to Tim and Betsy Shaheen who graciously opened their Buttonwood home and grounds to the Shrewsbury Historical Society for its 50th Autumn Harvest party It was taken by Shrewsbury Historical Society trustee emeritus Penny Ticehurst.

Shrewsbury Historical Society President Don Burden welcomed the more than 100 guests who braved the stormy and threatening weather of last weekend to enjoy the charm and history of the home of Betsy and Tim Shaheen who hosted a fundraising annual event to help the Historical Society continue to provide its pride and dedication to what has made Shrewsbury the community it is.

Don Burden (President), Trustees Marianne Chagares & Dr. Stephen Chagares

Burden also expressed thanks to the Shrewsbury Garden Club, always great friends of the Historical Society, his wife, Mary Leigh, also an active member of the Society, and all those who have attended the neighborhood parties that help raise funds.

Shrewsbury Garden Club provided all the floral arrangements

He noted the Shaheen’s gracious opening of their home and hosting the gala marks the 50th anniversary of a fundraising event that also highlights the history of the borough as well as the friendliness of its residents.

The first Neighborhood Gala similar to the Shaheens was a half century ago, 1976, when the Swebens of the Shadowbrook hosted the afternoon cocktail party. The $50 contribution for that first event has not changed over the years, Burden pointed out, again thanking the Shadowbrook for their continued presence and their gift towards the success of this year’s event

Trustee Jeff Reger, Mary Lea Burden (Treasurer), Betsy Schmalz Shaheen (Hostess), Don Burden (President), Tim Shaheen (Host)

The society president also highlighted some of the Society’s events, noting the success and outstanding reception its most recent exhibit received. Burden noted the Quilt Display, which included 109 quilts from several different centuries, families and stories, and which is closing now, received more than 700 visitors.

The next exhibit of vintage tea pots, dinnerware, crocheted and embroidered tableware is currently in the planning stages. Ensuring that each exhibit at the Shrewsbury Society is unique and memorable, Burden said that “for the heck of it” this exhibit will also include a collection of vintage oil cans, along with the embroidered tableware and vintage items. The opening date has not yet been announced, the chairman said, inviting those in attendance to contribute items if they desire.

Burden also noted that “next year will be a challenge “ for the Society as funds are needed to replace the unreliable and aging 1984 heating and AC system “that is living on borrowed time.” All of the Society’s operating costs for their museum are the responsibility of the Society, he pointed out, “not at the expense of the borough.”

Burden’s history of the Buttonwood Park area of Shrewsbury where the Shaheens live, captivate the crowd.

He noted that this year marks the centennial of the construction of the first homes built in Buttonwood. He continued that “ while many of the homes have been expanded over the years, the charm of the Buttonwood Park remains.” He noted with thanks how generosity such as the Shaheens opening the event is a boon to “to raising the necessary funds to keep the doors open at the Shrewsbury Historical Society.”

Their generosity, he said, is similar to their neighbors, since “over the years, residents of Buttonwood have long contributed to Shrewsbury’s identity. Two mayors at one time lived here, several members of the Shrewsbury’s Board of Education, a Shrewsbury judge, noted business owners, Realtors, and lawyers all called Buttonwood Park home.”

One family, the Ace Godwins, he said, “were in the forefront of moving on with the times to integrate minorities in the community. The Francis Eck family went on to expand businesses that enabled them to gift more than $55 million to the University of Notre Dame. Speaking of Notre Dame,” he continued, “ Current Buttonwood resident, Mike Jones, and his brother Ed, our bartender, are grandsons Elmer Layden, one of the Four Horsemen of ND and the first commissioner of the NFL. “

Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser

Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser Fundraiser In the beginning God creatFundraisered the heavens and the earth.²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness.⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.”⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so.⁸God called the vault “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day.And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so.¹⁰God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so.¹²The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.¹³And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years,¹⁵and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so.¹⁶God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars.¹⁷God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth,¹⁸to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good.¹⁹And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.”

An Afternoon of Oldies

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 20, 2026

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Temple Shalom invites the local community to a vibrant celebration of classic music at “An Afternoon of Oldies,” Sunday, November 8 at 3:00 PM.

The event ensures an afternoon packed with exceptional music and high-energy sing-along fun, featuring three premier regional acts: Frank and Cynthia, performing beloved, crowd-pleasing favorites from the 1960s and 1970s, the Chorus of the Atlantic, showcasing the very best of a cappella harmony and the Red Bank Quartet – RBQClassic Barbershop Quartet

The event will be held at Temple Shalom, 5 Ayrmont Lane, at Aberdeen, at 3:00 pm. There is no admission fee, however, a $15 per person donation is appreciated.

Light refreshments will also be served, and guests are invited to bring your family, friends, and a singing voice for a nostalgic musical journey. For more information visit: www.redbankchorus.org

Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day.And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. ¹⁰God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. ¹²The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. ¹³And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, ¹⁵and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. ¹⁶God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. ¹⁷God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, ¹⁸to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. ¹⁹And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.”

44th Annual Candlelight Concert

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 20, 2026

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All Saints’ Memorial Church, “The Stone Church”, will host its 44th Annual Candlelight Concert and Reception Sunday, November 15 at 4:00 pm at the church in the Locust section of Navesink.

This year’s event will feature a masterful trio, including Eric Wyrick, violinist and concertmaster of the New Jersey Symphony; Jonathan Spitz, cellist, also with the New Jersey Symphony; and Erika Nickrenz, pianist. The evening’s classical program will include pieces by Johannes Brahms, Fritz Kreisler, Benjamin Godard and Antonin Dvorak set in the church’s historic stone structure.

This performance promises to highlight the refined musicianship of each individual and collectively, a delightful exuberance that has gained rave reviews and national recognition. The church’s historic stone structure, beautiful stained-glass windows, and excellent acoustics provide a lovely setting for the traditional classical program, making it a popular event during the fall season.

A reception will follow the event.

Tickets are $55 per person and include the concert followed by the candlelight reception in the parish house allowing attendees the opportunity to mix and mingle with the performers and fellow concert- goers.

A variety of sponsorship opportunities are all available, with all proceeds benefiting All Saints’ community outreach and church operations.

Reservations can be made online https://allsaintsnavesink.breezechms.com/form/13d01e921534, by calling 732-291-0214 for more information, or visiting the website, www.allsaintsnavesink.org.

Early in the years of the Civil War, the Milnor and Stephens families provided the land and paid for the building of All Saints’ Memorial Church in Navesink, then called Riceville. They chose the architectural firm of Richard Upjohn, a designer well known for his English Gothic Revival church designs and the architect of Trinity Church on Wall Street.

The church building was consecrated in 1864 followed by the construction of the parish house, barn and carriage sheds, all of which stand today.

All Saints’ Memorial Church was officially designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1988 and is considered a prime example of 19th century ecclesiastical design. The Candlelight Concert at All Saints’ has become an autumnal classic offering a unique opportunity to enjoy superb chamber music in a warm and inviting setting.

Candlelight Candlelight Candlelight Candlelight Candlelight Candlelight

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day.And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. ¹⁰God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. ¹²The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. ¹³And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, ¹⁵and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. ¹⁶God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. ¹⁷God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, ¹⁸to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. ¹⁹And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.”

Doo Wop By

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 16, 2026

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You might be the very person or group responsible for whether there will be a Fabulous 50s Doo Wop Party at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School Saturday October 24.

The Knights of Columbus, who annually sponsor a series of entertaining events as well as monthly breakfasts honoring local families and providing a morning of neighborliness, friendship and gourmet breakfast specialties, need to have all reservations for the October 24 event by today, or will be forced to cancel the event.

The $35 per person ticket includes a buffet dinner and a dessert table together with music of the 1950s, dancing, and a Just Elvis tribute brought by DJ Dagwood and crew.

The event has become a tradition at OLPH and donations from it help sponsor the numerous programs the Knights sponsor for families in the area.

For reservations, call or text 732-915-2104. Don’t wait until the night of the event, since without you letting them know you will there, it will not be.

Doo Wop Doo Wop Doo Wop Doo Wop Doo Wop Doo Wop Doo Wop

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day.And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. ¹⁰God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. ¹²The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. ¹³And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, ¹⁵and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. ¹⁶God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. ¹⁷God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, ¹⁸to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. ¹⁹And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ²Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. ⁴God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” ⁷So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. ⁸God called the vault “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning

Operation Reach Out

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 11, 2026

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The Borough of Highlands, in partnership with the Association of the United States Navy (AUSN), has issued an invitation to all local military families, veterans, service members, and the community in general to attend the first Operation Reach Out Open House Saturday, November 14,at the Robert D. Wilson Memorial Community Center, 22 Snug Harbor Avenue. No reservations are necessary and a light breakfast will be served.

The borough was the first in the nation to participate in Operation Reach Out, a new community-based initiative focused on bringing military families together in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. The program is designed to help military-connected families meet one another, develop friendships, share experiences, and build a stronger local support network.

Mayor Carolyn Broullon, who introduced the program to the borough after meeting with Lieutenant Commander Steven Rogers USN (ret) the executive director of Operation Reach Out, said the free event m which begins at 10 a.m. will introduce residents to the association and Operation Reach Out and provide an opportunity for military families to meet one another in a relaxed setting. A complimentary light breakfast will be served.

The event is also open to residents who simply want to learn how they can support local military families. Community organizations, businesses, veterans, volunteers, and civic groups are encouraged to attend and learn how they can become part of the growing network of support.

The Highlands Council approved a resolution supporting and endorsing the Association’s Reach Out program earlier this year, after Rogers met with Broullon and spoke at the borough’s joint ceremony with the Knights of Columbus at the Twin Lights. That ceremony recognized the date and place when the Pledge of Allegiance was said publicly for the first time. Council members showed their support for all military personnel and their families by endorsing the Association’s innovative program to offer the opportunity for friendship and understanding of how military families face unusual challenges in their lives as neighbors in small communities.

“This is a great program and we’re happy to be the first to adopt it and help bring military families closer together,” Broullon said, in issuing the invitation to the community to attend the November event.

The Association of the US Navy, also known as AUSN is an organization dedicated to supporting U S Navy and Coast Guard personnel, veterans, and their families through advocacy, education, outreach, and community engagement.

Persons wanting more information on AUSN can visit their webpage at www.AUSN.org.

Operation Operation Operation Operation Operation Operation

Atlantic Highlands and Baseball

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 8, 2026

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Award winning baseball history author John Zinn will present a talk on the Brooklyn Dodgers sponsored by the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society on Monday, October 20 at 7:30 at the Arts Gallery, 54 First Avenue.

All are invited to attend the free event, where donations will also be accepted for the Historical Society.

In advance of Zinn’s talk and because of the interest in baseball throughout Monmouth County, Atlantic Highlands Historical Society’s board member Greg Caggiano, also a noted author and historian, featured a story on the Society page on Babe Ruth and an exhibition game held at the borough’s field off Valley Drive. Caggiano tells the story of the home team Highlanders and the visiting team of major league stars and more.

While the story features Babe Ruth and his impact on the crowd when he played in the game and other incidents around the borough, it also includes a local star, Sterling “Dutch” Stryker, and his exploits traveling with major league teams.

Stryker’s nephew, the former Mayor Richard Stryker recalls many anecdotes about his uncle and is looking forward to the Historical Society’s continuing promotion of baseball history during its series in celebration of America’s 250th

Local residents are urged to attend the October 20 event, as an opportunity to learn more about the sport that has captured America, but also to learn more about the Historical Society, and how to become a member and continue to promote the historic significance of the Strauss House where its museum is located as well as the borough in particular.

Because of damage to the Strauss house due to weather conditions, the Historical Society has been unable to hold many of its regularly scheduled events there and has incurred considerably significant additional costs, so all donations are appreciated. The Society accepts donations at all its free events, as well as through memberships, memorial gifts or subscription gifts for new neighbors or residents.

The society also invites volunteers to participate in all aspects of the Historical Society. Members and non-members alike are welcome to assist as docents for weekend museum duty as well serve on various committees, including fundraising events and museum development and maintenance, including: carpentry, exhibition design, gardening, plumbing, roofing, electrical work, historical research, masonry, grant-writing, marketing, finance, photography, and newsletter contributions. The Society works closely with area schools, and has a Junior Volunteer Team for students aged 13-18 in need of hours who wish to volunteer. College students may also apply for an internship.

To read Caggiano’s story or to get further information on membership, volunteerism or history, contact the society at ahhistoricalinfo@gmail.com or visit their page at AHhistory.org

Baseball Baseball Baseball Baseball Baseball Baseball Baseball

spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, ⁴just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before ^[a]Him in love, ⁵by predestining us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, ⁶to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved. ⁷In ^[b]Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our transgressions, according to the riches of His grace ⁸which He caused to abound to us in all wisdom and insight, ⁹making known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Him ¹⁰for an administration of the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things ^[c]in the heavens and things on the earth in Him. ¹¹In ^[d]Him, we also ^[e]have been made an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, ¹²to the end that we who first have hoped in ^[f]Christ would be to the praise of His glory. ¹³In ^[g]Him, you also, after listening to the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also ^[h]believed, you were sealed in ^[i]Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, ¹⁴who is ^[j]given as a pledge of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Veterans Veterans Veterans

The Dutch Republic and Our Colonies

By

Muriel J. Smith

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October 8, 2026

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Dutch It is a story too often overlooked but one that should continue to be told, Middletown Chapter Regent of the DAR Michele Donnelly told guests at the 6th annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon recently. The DAR Chapter hosted the annual event honoring veterans of all wars and thanking them for their military service.

Donnelly pointed out that particularly in the year of the 250th celebration of the United States, it is important to recognize that the Dutch were the first to salute the American Flag on the Andrew Doria in 1776 when the American brigantine sailed into St. Eustatius harbor in the Dutch Republic flying the new American Grand Union flag.

Donnelly pointed out how the Dutch Republic of the time risked war with Great Britain, a small island facing the world’s greatest naval power, and financed the United States, a new fledgling nation, quietly helping win the battle for the United States during one of the war’s most critical moments.

Before an audience of more than 100 military, retired military and their families and friends, Donelly traced the involvement of the Dutch Republic with America’s foundation from the time of the colonies’ separation from England’s taxes, the resultant Boston Tea Pary, the Dutch East and West Indies companies and how they were involved, and St. Eustatius, the free-trade hub where colonial ships could buy and sell captured British cargo

Dutch support continued for the United States, she said, through the rest of the 18th century, including when the Bonhomme Richard was attacked under Captain John Paul Jones,replaced by the captured Serapis and sailed to Holland for repairs. She spoke of the British declaration of war on the Dutch republic in 1780, its demolition of the Dutch fleet and taking of Sint Eustatius, and engaging the Dutch fleet in a battle that allowed a French fleet to assist in the siege at Yorktown. She noted that the Netherlands became the first country after France, to formally recognize American’ independence and later loaned incredible sums of money to the new nation that helped keep America afloat.

The regent quoted John Adams comments in 1823, three years before he died, that “Netherlands … treaty with us was the event which ultimately turned the scale of the American Revolutionary War and produced the peace of 1783 … In some future time it may be thought of with more importance.”

“The future day is today,” Donnelly said, “The Dutch Republic risked war, financed a fledgling nation with no credit history and it is a debt of gratitude America still owes.”

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Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, ⁴just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before ^[a]Him in love, ⁵by predestining us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, ⁶to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved. ⁷In ^[b]Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our transgressions, according to the riches of His grace ⁸which He caused to abound to us in all wisdom and insight, ⁹making known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Him ¹⁰for an administration of the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things ^[c]in the heavens and things on the earth in Him. ¹¹In ^[d]Him, we also ^[e]have been made an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, ¹²to the end that we who first have hoped in ^[f]Christ would be to the praise of His glory. ¹³In ^[g]Him, you also, after listening to the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also ^[h]believed, you were sealed in ^[i]Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, ¹⁴who is ^[j]given as a pledge of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Veterans Veterans Veterans

Middletown DAR Veterans Appreciation Lunch

By

Muriel J. Smith

-

October 8, 2026

0

Thy Cavaganaro, award winning originator of Thanking Vets in Barnegat, and owner of the Amazing Eskis, a group of therapy and action dogs, was the guest speaker at the 6th Annual Veterans Appreciation Lunch hosted by the Middletown Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The luncheon was held at the Holmdel Community Center, and Holmdel Mayor Rocco Impreveduto was on hand to welcome the more than 100 veterans and their families and friends, and thanking them for their years of service in the military.

Middletown DAR Regent Michele Donnelly introduced Mayor Impreveduto, and Esther Chucaralao, NK Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs and DAR member Helen Henkel led the gathering in a moment of silence for all deceased veterans.

The color guard from MAST, the Marine Academy of Science and Technology at Sandy Hook, presented a color guard for the afternoon’s program, a service they have conducted every year since the Veterans lunch was started by the Middletown Chapter. Holmdel High School student Julia Mooney led the group in a rendition of the National Anthem. Sea Smith played a compilation of military and patriotic songs on the bagpipe at the end of the ceremony.

The luncheon also honored the team of three Naval veterans who have led the NJROTC program at MAST for the past 13 years, and who were awarded the NJ DAR Distinguished Citizen Award for their excellence in presenting their program of patriotism, education, leadership and discipline. The three, Commander Tracie Smith Yeoman, Senior Chief Mike Vacarella and Chief Will Fetherman are all navy retirees and all worked at MAST following retirement for 14 years until Smith Yeoman’s retirement from teaching earlier this year.

Donnelly also featured a talk on American history as part of the luncheon, telling the story of the Dutch contributions to United States Independence.

Cavaganaro captivated the crowd with her enthusiastic talk on what it is like to be a Vietnam refugee in America today whose family was living in Vietnam during the war. She spoke on the variety of feelings during American militia during that era, the impact of the war on families such as her own, their efforts to live through the war, leave the nation rather than suffer under the Vietcong, and how her family, with her as a young child, managed to come to America and a better life. Cavaganaro showed her pride in being a refugee and the difference enthusiasm for this country and its military has been received.

The luncheon was sponsored by a number of sponsors and supporters including AHEPA Chapter 517, Circle Hyundai, Joseph J. Grano Family Office, ECHL.Inc., Henkel Family, Manning Family, Patriot Bot Hauling, Rocar Properties, Veteran Auto Repair, DeMarco’s, Whole Foods, Acme, Stop & Shop, Tractor Supply and WaWa.

Veterans

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, ⁴just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before ^[a]Him in love, ⁵by predestining us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, ⁶to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved. ⁷In ^[b]Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our transgressions, according to the riches of His grace ⁸which He caused to abound to us in all wisdom and insight, ⁹making known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Him ¹⁰for an administration of the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things ^[c]in the heavens and things on the earth in Him. ¹¹In ^[d]Him, we also ^[e]have been made an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, ¹²to the end that we who first have hoped in ^[f]Christ would be to the praise of His glory. ¹³In ^[g]Him, you also, after listening to the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also ^[h]believed, you were sealed in ^[i]Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, ¹⁴who is ^[j]given as a pledge of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Veterans Veterans Veterans

Atlantic Highlands Farmers Market FRIDAY

By

Muriel J. Smith

-

October 8, 2026

0

The Atlantic Highlands Farmers Market, taking advantage of spectacular weather forecasts, is offering a variety of vendors at the Veterans Park Market, First Avenue, across from Borough Hall, this Friday.

The market will be open from 10.am. to 3p.m. and will feature vendors including Butch’s Hot Sauce, Picklelicious, Jersey Cookie Girl, Lofing Around, From Scratch NJ and New Life Farms., a lineup that also gained supporters and praise throughout the season. There is free parking around the park which is dog friendly and welcoming all to several hours of camaraderie, interesting shopping, friendship, and an added opportunity enjoy a Friday in Atlantic Highlands

Veni Vidi Scripto

Veni Vidi Scripto

Veni Vidi Scripto

Veni Vidi Scripto

Are We on a Slippery Slope?

Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery Slippery

Fundraiser Shrewsbury Historical Society

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An Afternoon of Oldies

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44th Annual Candlelight Concert

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Doo Wop By

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Operation Reach Out

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Atlantic Highlands and Baseball

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The Dutch Republic and Our Colonies

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Middletown DAR Veterans Appreciation Lunch

Veterans

Atlantic Highlands Farmers Market FRIDAY

Farmers Farmers

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