Borough to mark 100th year in 2008

WEST LONG BRANCH - The borough is gearing up for a birthday celebration to mark its centennial in 2008.

Through the years West Long Branch has been part of Shrewsbury, Eatontown, Branchburg, Hoppertown and Mechanicsville.

Monroe V. Poole, the borough's first mayor, was the activating force behind the incorporation of West Long Branch on June 22, 1908.

According to a press release from Centennial Committee Chairwoman Barbara Ruane, there are a variety of ideas for the centennial celebration being suggested by an enthusiastic team of committee members.

"We are fortunate to have people on the committee who were part of the 75th anniversary celebration in 1983 and even a few who were part of the 50th anniversary in 1958," said Ruane.

"Together with them and the "new generation" of volunteers, most of whom are either lifelong or long-term residents of West Long Branch, and who have been active volunteer members of the community, we have been able to put together a diverse and impressive array of events."

The celebratory year will begin with a kickoff reorganization meeting on Jan. 1, and continues throughout the year with events including a Family Day Carnival, Memorial Day parade, Franklin Lake Day, logo contest, historical video, time capsule, West Long Branch Day at Monmouth Park, Birthday Cake Contest, fireworks, house tour, graveyard tour, museum tour and a tea and ice cream social, community day and much more.

Committee members include Tom Cameron, Dick Cooper, Art Cosentino, John, Louise and Ruth DeBruin, Bill Deisinger, Paul Dement, Franklyn and Linda Dennis, Jacki Ebel, Beth Garrigal, Janet Giersch, Dr. Elizabeth Keshish, Larry Mihlon, Mike Ruane, Margaret Johnson, Ray Rubman, Debbie Smith, Lorraine Strohmenger, Janet Tucci, Gene Van Brunt, Alden and Norma West, Irene Worles and Randy Yelton.

Local businesses are being invited to be sponsors for the event, and, depending on the level of sponsorship, will be recognized on all centennial literature, signage and advertising.

In addition, help is needed on subcommittees, so if residents are interested in sponsoring or assisting with the events, contact Ruane at (732) 870-6442; e-mail to: bruane@westlongbranch.org or contact one of the committee members listed.