While everyone is still talking about the Highlands St. Patrick’s Parade last week and the thousands of people who came to enjoy the more than 120 units that made it the largest ever in the history of Highlands’ parades, and second only to Belmar, the Highlands Business Partnership awarded the trophies to winners of the four categories selected by a team of judges as the best in their category.
The Gravelly Point Road residents took first place as the Best in Show.
The Food Pantry of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church took first place for most original; volunteers featured a variety of fruits and vegetables they offer to those in need at the Pantry.
The Twin Light Condo Association, with its representation of their own condo complex, took the first place trophy for the prettiest of all the floats.
The Highlands First Aid Squad, true to their reputation and everyday work and skill, took the trophy for the best apparatus.
Look for information in the near future on the Partnership;s next major event celebrating Cinco de Mayo, the Fiesta de Mayo Cantina Crawl which will be held May. 2.
Spec4 Thomas [Tommy] J. Ptak, Killed in Action, 22 March 1968
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.
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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.
trained Mayor Lori Hohenleitner and the Atlantic Highlands Borough Council praised Police Chief Scott Reinert and the police department at their last weeks meeting, highlighting the facts that several police officers recently completed more training in a variety of fields of expertise and education.
Atlantic Highlands Police Chief Scott Reinert
The commendations led VeniVidiScripto to delve deeper into the amount of additional trainings these officers complete on a regular basis and why Chief Reinert feels it is so important that his department keeps up with the most advanced methods in a variety of areas of expertise.
Reinert said it is true that every month several officers attend an array of trainings which are either mandated by the state or can be considered officer specific.
“In a small department the amount of training can sometimes be overwhelming but definitely necessary,” the chief explained. “ The law enforcement profession is constantly evolving and the skills and knowledge required to effectively deal with these challenges necessitate an expanded level of education and training to do so.,” he said. “ Officers have to be well rounded and know a little bit about everything from legal compliance, safety, professionalism, technology, mental and emotional wellness, de-escalation tactics, emerging threats and community-oriented policing to name a few.”
In all departments, the chief continued, annually every single officer must complete Firearms Requalification’s, Use of Force training and Vehicular Pursuit training semi-annually. Domestic Violence training is also required every year along with Community Law Enforcement Affirmative Relations (CLEAR), biased based policing, blood borne pathogens, hazardous materials, Cell Block Management, Legal Updates Training, Active Shooter Training, Security Awareness Training, Defensive Tactics Training and Narcan Training. “There are also trainings that need to be taken every two years,” he continued, “including Right to Know, CJIS Training and Mechanical Force Training.” In addition to all of these, every three years officers also have to receive training in Ethics, Harassment in the Workplace, Handling the Mentally Ill, Alcohol test Training (aka Breathalyzer) and Radar. Training.
Still, that is not the end of training for Atlantic Highlands police officers. Reinert said there is “more and more every year” as systems, methods, educational methods and regulations change.
Besides the mandates listed, there are areas in law enforcement in which each officer specializes and develops better skills through more training. If an officer shows a strong interest into any specialized topic, Reinert said “I try to do my best to get them involved in that area.” Since he himself is “not a subject matter expert in every field of law enforcement “, noting the vast variety of areas there are, “if I can build up the people around to me to specialize in certain areas I think we all win as a department and as a community. “
It was Sgt. Brian Phair’s training lasts month that prompted the queries to Reinert.
The office completed one week of training in New Mexico. As a member of the Monmouth County Rapid Deployment Force (RDF) and Commander of the unit, Phair and the RDF respond to emergency situations that include Monmouth County Emergency Response Team (MOCERT) activation’s, natural and man-made disasters, school and workplace violence, crowd control, demonstrations, incidents of civil disobedience, missing person and open area suspect searches. Members must go through a rigorous try-out to ensure their physical condition.
Our department has two officers on the team, the chief said. Phair and Ptl. Scott Chenoweth, both of whom will respond anywhere in the state if needed for the above situations, with most calls for service within Monmouth County. In addition to that, the team will also play a role in the FIFA World Cup later this year. Sgt. Phair’s recent week long training went into extensive detail on Tactical Response to Suicide Bombing.
“This training may sound disturbing or someone may not want to think of this situation,” the chief said, adding, “ but in plain words, it’s our reality and needs to be prepared.”
Upon his return, Sgt. Phair said the training was one of the best experiences he ever had in training and had nothing but good things to say about the week.
During the first week in February, Ptl. Patrick Anderson attended Alcohol test Recertification Training, Sgt. Phair and Ptl. Chenoweth attended Rapid Deployment Force Training; Sgt. Phair attended Alcohol test Recertification Training and all officers received training with the new department-issued hand guns at the Middletown Township firing range.
Sgt. Phair’s week long training in New Mexico was provided free of charge.
Also during February, Sgt. Travis Sodon attended Commercial Vehicle Familiarization Training and Alcohol test Recertification training, Lt. Michael Zudonyi and Chenoweth attended active shooter training and Lt. Zudonyi and Ptl. Davi Cunha completed Cadet Training with AH police Cadets.
The borough’s department is comprised of one captain in addition to the Chief, one lieutenant, four sergeants, one detective, seven patrolmen, one special officer and one records manager.
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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.
In a nutshell, that tells the story of Catherine Curtin of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, and her patent pending Crowd Cushion that is already sought after in Europe and Asia, and marketed right from Monmouth County.
Catherine said she always loved shows and entertainment of any kind, always liked being at the most popular venues for the most sought after events. But as she got older, she started realizing that in some situations, she felt genuinely unsafe in the crowd.
“That really stuck with me,” she said, “because there are environments that are supposed to be fun and freeing….but instead, at times, they felt overwhelming.”
Th daughter of Tricia and Dan Curtin, a pair of entrepreneurs and thoughtful volunteers ready to help in any situation where they feel a need, Catherine knew she had to do something. After all, she thought, if she felt uncomfortable in places she really loved to be, there must be others in the same predicament.
Her family runs Comprise Technologies, a New Jersey-based company that’s been in business for about 30 years and focuses on customer service software for public agencies. Her father, Dan built the company from the ground up. And Catherine readily points out that growing up around that entrepreneurial environment had a huge impact on here and gave confidence to build something of my own.
She knows she also inherited her parents dedication to hard work and compassion for helping others; she volunteers at the our Lady of Perpetual Help Food Pantry in Highlands her parents started more than 20 years ago at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church and continue to operate for all those in need in the Highlands area.
Talking about how she came about becoming an inventor, Catherine explains “ I’ve been in crowds where I felt unsafe, where I fell and genuinely worried about being trampled,
“That feeling stays with you. It made me realize how quickly things can escalate and how little visibility there is in those moments.: That’s what pushed me to create something that could prevent that from happening to others.
Rather than complain about it, or stop going to events she enjoyed … Catherine decided she had to do something to relieve the stress and make it possible for everyone, especially young people enthusiastic about sports and entertainment, to feel safe.
It was the Astro World tragedy that set Catherine inventive brain cells into motion.
It was in November, five years ago, that a fatal crowd crush occurred during the Astro world Festival, an annual musical event hosted by American rapper Travis Scott at NRG Park in Houston Texas. Eight people died in that incident that day, and another two more died in the hospital a few days later. The medical examiner in charge of the investigation listed the cause of death as compressive asphyxiation, literally being crushed to death by the crowd. Although it was ruled an accident, it was a tragedy that set the entire industry asking the same question: how can we better understand and manage crowd pressure before it becomes dangerous?
At the same time, Catherine was working on a school project at South Carolina focused on preventing crowd surges, “Everything kind of clicked. I realized there wasn’t a real-time, data-driven way to measure what people at the barricade were actually experiencing physically.”
So it was this combination … Catherine’s own personal fears in crowds, her education in sports and entertainment, and what was happening in the industry, that ultimately led to her creation of the Crowd Cushion.
Catherine’s unique invention is a sensor-equipped barricade cushion that measures crowd pressure and sends real-time alerts when levels become unsafe. It’s unusual and waiting on a patent because it is unique in that it measures actual physical force, not simply visual clues. To get to her eventual safe Cushion, Catherine and those working with her explored other ideas, including cameras or manual monitoring. “But those rely too much on interpretation and can miss critical moments.,” she said, something that wasn’t good enough for an investigative and questioning woman with a goal of helping prevent accidents.
Over the past few years, Catherine continued to improve on her original Cushion, to the point the system itself has already evolved into something even more efficient. For instance, there is a digital command center so the system can be monitored remotely; there are wearable-style pagers that vibrate when alerts happen, and text message alerts for security teams to keep informed and up to date on specific situations. There is even an artist-facing light so performers on the other side of the Crowd Cushion can help calm the crowd in real time.
The Crowd Cushion borne of Catherine’s own fear is best used today at festivals with large crowds, pit environments, high-density concerns and any place where stage-front barricades should be in use to prevent another Astro World Crowd Crush.
Catherine is quick to put out her invention is a full-time effort and she has worked with engineers, developers and industry professionals to try, test, eliminate, expand and bring this product to life. She said her team has relied heavily on feedback from people who work in crowd safety to ensure the system is practical, not simply an innovative usable invention that can take on real-world environments.
She is accomplishing what she set out to do. Already, Crowd Cushion has been deployed at dozens of shows; in more than a third of them, the system generated alerts, meaning it identified potentially unsafe pressure levels in real time . Some of those alerts lasted more than 20 seconds, which shows how critical early detection can be. She has already expanded internationally, including at large-scale festivals in Saudi Arabia. She has permanent installations at venues including the Stone Pony and Alerus Center.
Beyond that, it is obvious that brand recognition has really grown—people in the industry are starting to understand that Catherine Curtin and her Crowd Cushion is here to stay.
She continues to work to make entertainers and their managers aware of the benefits of the Crowd Cushion. For Catherine, it’s simply “I want Crowd Cushion to be something event organizers rely on—not just in emergencies, but as part of everyday planning—so teams can make faster, smarter, data-driven decisions.. The goal is to make proactive safety the standard at live events.
And all the work has certainly been a lot of fun, too, Catherine admits. “One of the biggest highlights has been traveling internationally for events and seeing Crowd Cushion used in completely different environments. From local venues to massive global festivals, it’s been incredible to watch something that started as an idea actually working in the real world.
So what’s next? “I think one key piece is that Crowd Cushion is about shifting the mindset from reactive to proactive safety. Everyone deserves to feel safe while enjoying those moments, and if we have the ability to prevent harm, we have a responsibility to do so. At the end of the day, I’m a fan. I love live music. This is about protecting that experience so people can enjoy it safely!
I want to continue building solutions that make a real impact. Whether that’s in live events or beyond, I’m driven by creating things that genuinely improve people’s safety and experiences.
Because live events are about bringing people together.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Estimated “We needed this.. It has been a long cold winter and we needed this bit of spring. The town was filled with well wishers, fun, happiness…it was restorative to the soul.”
So spoke an enthusiastic and grateful Mayor Carolyn Broullon, following the very popular and highly successful St. Patrick’s Day parade Saturday where she was Grand Marshal and shared limelight with past grand marshals, including the first female mayor of Highlands, Anna Little, who led the parade in 2019.
Broullon, like everyone else, was astounded at the figures that also made this St. Patrick’s Day parade a record breaker in numerous ways.
‘Drones overhead trying to estimate the crowds who jammed into the borough for the highlight of the month, and nearest estimates put the crowds in the borough at 15,000.
There were approximately 120 individual units from motorcyclists and fire trucks to scout troops and bands in the line of march, making it the longest parade ever in the borough.
There were no accidents, no tickets issued, no emergency calls other than one first aid call several hours after the end of the parade.
Broullon walked as the Grand Marshal, in the company of others receiving applause from the crowd, including Congressman Frank Pallone, a popular favorite every year, State Senator Gerry Sharfenbarger, who attends every affair and accepts every invitation to participate in Highlands, as well as other past grand marshals and the governing body.
The Mayor credited the huge success of the day to “everyone working together, careful planning, great organization” and a willingness to show everyone how special Highlands is.
In addition to the Highlands Business Partnership, which organizes and sponsors the event, Broullon praised the Police Department for the role they take in planning the route and ensuring the roads are kept clear, as well as Tom Snow and his heading up the requests for special police officers not only from Highlands but from surrounding towns as well. “Without the cooperation of all of these wonderful people, we could not have the safety record we have,” the mayor said.
She also praised the fire department and each of the businesses and organizations that participate in the parade. “This is just a matter of all of us working together, having great leadership for it, and everyone wanting to be sure everyone, both parade goers, and parade watchers, have an enjoyable day.”
The successful Business Partnership Event kicks off a season of other major events, the mayor said. On May 2, there is the Fiesta de Mayo, honoring the Mexican Cinco de mayo that celebrates the Mexican battle over the French in 1862 and is annually an event for celebration. The highly popular Roar on the River is slated for May 16 and 17 and the annual Craft Show is set for May 24.
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She also praised the fire department and each of the businesses and organizations that participate in the parade. “This is just a matter of all of us working together, having great leadership for it, and everyone wanting to be sure everyone, both parade goers, and parade watchers, have an enjoyable day.”The successful Business Partnership Event kicks off a season of other major events, the mayor said. On May 2, there is the Fiesta de Mayo, honoring the Mexican Cinco de mayo that celebrates the Mexican battle over the French in 1862 and is annually an event for celebration. The highly popular Roar on the River is slated for May 16 and 17 and the annual Craft Show is set for May 24.She also praised the fire department and each of the businesses and organizations that participate in the parade. “This is just a matter of all of us working together, having great leadership for it, and everyone wanting to be sure everyone, both parade goers, and parade watchers, have an enjoyable day.”The successful Business Partnership Event kicks off a season of other major events, the mayor said. On May 2, there is the Fiesta de Mayo, honoring the Mexican Cinco de mayo that celebrates the Mexican battle over the French in 1862 and is annually an event for celebration. The highly popular Roar on the River is slated for May 16 and 17 and the annual Craft Show is set for May 24.She also praised the fire department and each of the businesses and organizations that participate in the parade. “This is just a matter of all of us working together, having great leadership for it, and everyone wanting to be sure everyone, both parade goers, and parade watchers, have an enjoyable day.”The successful Business Partnership Event kicks off a season of other major events, the mayor said. On May 2, there is the Fiesta de Mayo, honoring the Mexican Cinco de mayo that celebrates the Mexican battle over the French in 1862 and is annually an event for celebration. The highly popular Roar on the River is slated for May 16 and 17 and the annual Craft Show is set for May 24.
Spec4 Thomas [Tommy] J. Ptak, Killed in Action, 22 March 1968
The whole town turned out to surround the Ptak family with love, prayers and tears 58 years ago when word reached the Highlands family that their son, our friend, our neighbor, Tommy, had been killed in Vietnam.
Tommy’s funeral was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church when his body was returned home with military honors, and the church was filled to overflowing, spilling out onto Route 36 as everyone wanted to honor the soldier.
There wasn’t a person in town who didn’t know a Ptak, parents or children, either from OLPH school, which the kids all attended, from town where they had a soda at Katz, or at the movie theater before it closed, or from summers, when the bolder older ones jumped off the Highlands Sea Bright bridge in the borough tradition.
Ben and Gerry were the smiling faces always ready to give a hand, active in the PTA, even starting bee hives in the yard of their Highland Avenue home after Ben helped one of the kids with a science project at school.
And even before the funeral, it was Tommy’s brother who climbed on the roof of the Ptak home and painted the chimney red, white and with a peace sign in the blue field to honor the borough’s hero.
This is a story from The Courier about his funeral days later, and the impact Gerry and Ben Ptak and their entire family had on the town where they loved and lived.
Please, if you share anything on social media, share this story, the story of a small town kid, and unsung hero, a young man who was a bright shining star.
Spec4 Thomas [Tommy] J. Ptak, Killed in Action, 22 March 1968
They buried Tommy Ptak Monday morning, the local newspaper in Highlands reported April 4, 1968.
It was Specialist Fourth class Thomas Ptak, 270 Highland Avenue, son of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Ptak, to the very militarily correct Army sergeant who escorted the soldier’s body from the place where he died in Hue, Vietnam, back home to Highlands for the funeral, then on to Mt. Olivet Cemetery where he will rest forever.
It was Spec 4 Thomas Ptak to the six ramrod straight and Army-perfect soldiers who served as pallbearers at the military funeral at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church where Tommy and his family had worshiped all his life.
To all Americans, to all citizens of a free country, it was Spec 4 Thomas Ptak whose body lay in the plain casket under the American flag.
But to the hundreds of people who crowded into Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church for a last goodbye and a funeral mass, to the dozens more who spilled out onto the steps of the Church that gave a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean, it was just plain Tommy.
It was Tommy to young brothers and sisters, some of whom weren’t old enough to comprehend the ugly way in which he died.
It was Tommy to sorrowing parents who couldn’t begin to comprehend what wonderful parents they had been and how much love they received from all ten of their children.
It was Tommy, the son who would have been proud of their strength at his funeral.
It was Tommy to the dozens and dozens of high school students from the regional high school he attended, and the two local Catholic high schools where some of his friends attended. They all could remember happier days when Tommy was skillfully performing on a gym horse or tossing a ball with them in the middle of the street.
It was Tommy to the school principals who remembered Tommy as a “good boy, a typical boy, the kind you’d want in any class.”
It was Tommy to practically every neighbor along Highland Avenue and Valley St. where Tommy grew up, folks who remembered a friendly wave or a smile from a busy youth working on a motorcycle in the yard as they passed the always happy, always busy Ptak home. Neighbors who had broken all the rules of protocol and flew their American flags at half-staff even before Highlands Mayor John A. Bahrs ordered it for the entire town. The neighbors had all gone out to front yards to lower their flags the minute they heard of Tommy’s death.
It was Tommy to the three priests who concelebrated the funeral mass: the one who grew up in the parish and knew the whole Ptak family, the one who spent five years in the parish and knew and visited often with the family, and the one who just arrived in Highlands the year previous, not lucky enough to get closely acquainted with the young hero.
It was Tommy to the police chief and members of the police department who could remember he was ‘a nice kid, we ought to have more like him.”
It was Tommy to the altar boys who formed their own guard of honor as his body left the church. Boys who were classmates of Tommy’s younger brothers or sisters.
It was Tommy to the grammar schoolgirls who sorrowfully sang a very special funeral mass. It was a mass for the Tommy some of them had looked up to when they were very small, and he was a big eighth grader. It was Tommy, the big brother of their classmates, the big brother who looked so grown up and handsome in his army uniform.
It was Tommy to a neighbor who had served more than twenty years himself in the service of his country. Now retired as a Sergeant Major, Sal Giovenco attended the funeral in full dress uniform, perhaps to show the family of the young hero that he was proud of this particular soldier, proud to have known him, and proud to show that he too believes in the cause for which Tommy died. Sal knew, and showed, Tommy deserved the honor and respect of the American soldier’s uniform.
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.
They buried Tommy Ptak Monday morning; the newspaper continued. The nation lost a soldier, parents lost a son, and Highlands lost a very special youth.
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The Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Church food pantry took the first place award for most creative float in the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Highlands Sunday, winning the award the first year the food pantry entered the parade.
The pantry also won the first place award from the general public for the second year in a row for their entry in the business partnership’s chili contest, held in advance of the parade to offset the cost.
Thousands of people came into Highlands to see the parade and applaud the food pantry for all they do in the community.
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Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995. Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.
A funeral mass will be offered Saturday, March 28 at Holy Family Church, Union Beach, for Edward Newins, Sr. of Hazlet.
Ed died March 13, seven days before his 93rd birthday. He passed away surrounded by his family.
Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Greenpoint, Ed was proud of his service in the United States Coast Guard, broadcasting the Voice of America for Radio Free Europe off the coast of Rhodes, Greece during his years of service. He was honorably discharged in 1954 and remained active with his shipmates from the USS Courier over the years.
Ed worked as an Operating Engineer, New York Local 15 , starting in 1954 and was their Business Agent until his retirement in 1995.
Married to the former Georgette Ravel from October 23, 1954, until her death December 10, 2022, Ed was a devoted husband who was happiest in her company and sharing his life with her and their children. The couple were both avid boaters and popular on the waterfront scene and at the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club.
The couple first lived in Chelsea, New York, briefly in Hoboken, then moved to Hazlet in 1960 where they remained the rest of their lives.
Following his retirement, the couple enjoyed living between homes in Key Largo and Naples, Florida and Hazlet.
As an avid boater, and promoter of safety on the waterways, Ed spent many years boating and fishing from the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Harbor and cherished the friendships he formed over the years as a member of the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club, and where he served as Commodore. For many years after his tenure at the club’s chief officer, he was frequently recognized at gatherings of club members, recalled for his sense of humor, willingness to help others, and devotion to safety.
Ed also served as a Commissioner and Chairman of the BRSA in the 1970s.
In addition to Georgette, Ed was predeceased by his parents John L. and Lucretia (Maguiness) Newins, his brother Laurence, and sister Janet. Ed is survived by his children, Edward J. Newins, Jr. and his wife Mary Shawn, of Whitsett, NC , Kimberly (Herer) Flynn of Toms River, Victoria O’Connor and her husband Jerry of Howell and Navarre and Elizabeth Straub of Middletown and 11 Grandchildren – Krystal Kaplan and her husband Michael, Regina Young and her husband Colon, Rachael Herer, Robert Herer, John Straub, James Herer, Eric Straub, Kyle Newins and his wife Kelly, Faith Paton and her husband Jeff, Jerry O’Connor, Jr. and Natalie Straub . H is also survived by his most precious Great Grandson Michael Patrick Kaplan.
Family and friends are invited to visit at a memorial visitation at the Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3269 State Route/Highway 35, Hazlet, Friday March 27 from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M.
The Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 28, will be offered at 10:00 AM at the church at Highway 36, Union Beach, where Ed worshiped weekly.
In respect of Ed’s wishes, he will be privately cremated
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