Highlands Mayor Carolyn Broullon will have a resolution honoring the late Thomas Ptak, Tommy, at the April 1 meeting of the governing body, honoring the only Highlands resident who lost his life in Vietnam.

Ptak, the son of Benjamin and Gerry Ptak, was a borough native and was killed at the Battle of Hue, Vietnam, March 22, 1968.

He has never been forgotten, and has been honored and remembered in the borough every year since. The borough’s 95 unit senior citizen housing complex on Shore Drive was named in Ptak’s honor when it was built in the mid-1980s.

You can also Find ViniVidiScripto on the Following Platforms …

Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy Tommy

It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor. It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.It’s because of her own love for festivals, that Catherine Curtin went to the University of South Carolina to earn a degree in sport and entertainment management, with an eye towards a career in the live events industry.But it was because of her fear of what could happen in those large crowd gatherings at these festivals and other events she loves so much that this deep thinking, ever smiling and always helpful young woman become an inventor.

Having watched parades throughout Monmouth County since 1955, rarely missing one in Highlands, but never having been in a parade since I played the bugle in high school at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York, I was thrilled to accept the invitation from the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Food Pantry to be one of their fruits or vegetables in their first ever float in the Highlands St. Patrick’s Day parade last week.

Traci and Dan Curtin, along with their daughter Catherine, an amazing woman on her own, and the entire team at the Food Pantry planned and worked hard to make the first float they’ve ever entered the very best it could be. The idea of “WHY NOT?” enter the parade was thanks to the enthusiasm of Rick and Laura McGovern, as well as Laura’s son Marino, all of whom not only volunteer for the Pantry but are truly artistic and created a spectacular float for the Pantry.

Since it is a food pantry, one popular in town, fruits and vegetables were the logical choice. There would be walkers carrying the Food Pantry banner, along with riders in the float attractively decked out with greens, whites, leprechauns, shamrocks and everything else Irish. And each of the participants would be a different fruit or vegetable, thanks to costumes ordered for the occasion.

With a strawberry, blueberry, luscious looking hamburger and a very large baking potato, I opted to be a bunch of green grapes sitting in the float. The two young men in the float were well stocked with lollipops and wrapped candies and green beads to toss out to a happy crowd, while the rest of us waved Irish flags to show our support for all the cheers we received.

Out front, and carrying the flag proclaiming the Pantry, Tricia and Dad were corned beef and cabbage, and they were joined by a banana, a potato, a strawberry, grapes, ramen and even salad dressings to top it all off!. The Food Pantry is big on healthy foods, for sure, but also has plenty of other food items, so milk, cupcakes, a pickle, pistachio, cookies and even peanut butter and jelly also made up the Food Pantry float.

Before the parade even started, the float was getting kudos and approvals from other float designers in the Sea Streak parking lot where all were assigned for an orderly and timely start, in the proper row, along the line of march on Bay Avenue to Bahrs Restaurant. Judges for the Business Partnership’s contest for one of their four trophies mingled with the crowd, checking ou9 designs, asking questions, checking off points for each category.

Once the parade started, including a respite along side streets because of an unexpected delay….one of the Irish bands went to Highland Park instead of the real Highlands, so the start had to wait for them to arrive….it was amazing to see and hear the crowds on every corner, in every open park, hanging from windows, standing in doorways, all showing happiness, As Grand Marshal Mayor Carolyn Brullon said later, “all the joy and happiness was restorative to the soul.” She couldn’t have said it better. There was a joy, and outright laughter and enthusiasm for every float and marching group that passed.

As a first-time participant, I was in awe. The crowds were the largest I have seen in Highlands in more than 70 years; the laughter and happiness of the crowd was brighter than the warming sun and clear sky; the shouts of “Thanks” and “You look great!” or “I see you every week at the Pantry!” made it clear how much the Food Pantry is appreciated in town.

The youngsters…and yes, oldsters, along the route ran out and said thanks for the lollipops, all ages scattered along the side of the road to pick up the goodies being thrown out to a happy, festive crowd But through it all , there were shouts of thanks, wows at the creativity of the float, and genuine happiness. It remains clear that this parade was a truly bright spot marking the end of a dreary winter.

Passing the Reviewing Stand at Miller St., we stopped at the direction of Carla Cefalo, the mastermind behind all the wondrous things the Partnership does all year. It only took a minute and a few words from Carla to let the OLPH Food Pantry know why it was stopped in front of the reviewing stand.

Carla came down and presented the Partnership Trophy for the Most Creative and original float to the OLPH Food Pantry for its magnificent fruits and vegetables. For the rest of the route, the Pantry volunteers held the trophy up high so all could see. And the parish pastor, the Rev. Jarlath Quinn, who had been in the line of march with the Knight of Columbus, was on hand to welcome the trophy winners and add his own congratulations for a job well done.

Looking back on the experience, there are so many things that stand out….In Highlands, everyone works together, businesses, volunteers, borough employees, home owners, simply everyone. Folks like Tom Snow reached out and invited volunteer special officers from neighboring towns to volunteer their own time for the afternoon. And they did. People certainly appreciate the OLPH Food Pantry, and the Church on the hill, the only Church in town, is truly an integral part of Highlands.

Everybody came together to put on a show. Entertainment, local talent in the schools, the charm of Irish music, beauty of decorated motorcycles and antique cars, clever displays by local businesses and organizations, and great presentations from more than 120 entrants who signed up to participate in this well-organized presentation.

It’s enough to make you wonder how the world would be different if everyone shared so much, worked so well together, laughed so much and enjoyed the simple fun things of life like laughing together every day or even on a regular basis. It’ certainly worth a try.

You can also Find ViniVidiScripto on the Following Platforms …

Food

The Knights of Columbus, Rev. Joseph Donnelly Council ,is inviting all to join with them in a solemn commemoration of Good Friday 2,000 years go at 3 p.m. Friday, Good Friday, April 3, at St. Agnes Church, Atlantic Highlands..

David Convery, on behalf of the Knights, has issued the invitation to all to participate in the Good Friday Promotion Program for this year.

In extending the invitation, the Knight noted Good Friday has been considered the most solemn day of the Catholic faith, a time when Christians of all faiths can commemorate the passion, crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ.

Traditionally, every Good Friday Catholics venerate the Cross of Christ, and all in the parish family try to make a “good confession” in preparation for both Holy Thursday, the eve of Good Friday, and the time of the Last Supper. Catholics should also pray the stations of the Cross and attend a Good Friday service together.

Convery also pointed out that traditionally, in addition to the church mandating fasting and abstinence from meat on Good Friday, it is appropriate to observe periods of silence on Good Friday between noon and 3 p.m. That time could be spent in devotional reading and private prayer, in the absence of any media.

“It is appropriate for us to imitate Christ’s example of self-less love and sacrifice by giving up our time in Prayer and Adoring Him and His Holy Cross on Good Friday,” the Knight explained. “On Good Friday we see and feel in our hearts … the Infinite Love of Christ’s Sacred Heart and His Devine Mercy. Good Friday’s commemoration of our Lord’s Passion, Adoration of the Cross and Communion Service helps us to focus on Our Lord’s Love and Greatest Gift.. “ No mass is celebrated on Good Friday, and after the 3 pm. Communion Service, all are scheduled to depart from the Church in prayerful silence.

You can also Find ViniVidiScripto on the Following Platforms …

Good

The official records refer to Tommy as Thomas John Ptak. Born Feb. 1, 1948, died March 22, 1968. The Army records indicate he was an E4, Specialist Fourth Class, ID # 11755688, a member of C Company, Second Battalion, 501st Infantry, 101st Infantry Regiment…Geronimo, as it was known. He had been promoted twice. He started his Vietnam tour on March 14, 1967, and he was in Thua Thien Province, South Vietnam, March 22, 1968, 98 days later, when he was killed in a hostile ground attack of multiple fragmentation wounds. Died outright, the records say. Body recovered. He did have many honors, though: the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and several Vietnam Campaign Medals presented by the South Vietnamese government in appreciation for our American forces.The official records refer to Tommy as Thomas John Ptak. Born Feb. 1, 1948, died March 22, 1968. The Army records indicate he was an E4, Specialist Fourth Class, ID # 11755688, a member of C Company, Second Battalion, 501st Infantry, 101st Infantry Regiment…Geronimo, as it was known. He had been promoted twice. He started his Vietnam tour on March 14, 1967, and he was in Thua Thien Province, South Vietnam, March 22, 1968, 98 days later, when he was killed in a hostile ground attack of multiple fragmentation wounds. Died outright, the records say. Body recovered. He did have many honors, though: the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and several Vietnam Campaign Medals presented by the South Vietnamese government in appreciation for our American forces.The official records refer to Tommy as Thomas John Ptak. Born Feb. 1, 1948, died March 22, 1968. The Army records indicate he was an E4, Specialist Fourth Class, ID # 11755688, a member of C Company, Second Battalion, 501st Infantry, 101st Infantry Regiment…Geronimo, as it was known. He had been promoted twice. He started his Vietnam tour on March 14, 1967, and he was in Thua Thien Province, South Vietnam, March 22, 1968, 98 days later, when he was killed in a hostile ground attack of multiple fragmentation wounds. Died outright, the records say. Body recovered. He did have many honors, though: the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and several Vietnam Campaign Medals presented by the South Vietnamese government in appreciation for our American forces.The official records refer to Tommy as Thomas John Ptak. Born Feb. 1, 1948, died March 22, 1968. The Army records indicate he was an E4, Specialist Fourth Class, ID # 11755688, a member of C Company, Second Battalion, 501st Infantry, 101st Infantry Regiment…Geronimo, as it was known. He had been promoted twice. He started his Vietnam tour on March 14, 1967, and he was in Thua Thien Province, South Vietnam, March 22, 1968, 98 days later, when he was killed in a hostile ground attack of multiple fragmentation wounds. Died outright, the records say. Body recovered. He did have many honors, though: the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and several Vietnam Campaign Medals presented by the South Vietnamese government in appreciation for our American forces.