NOTES

Long Branch Superintendent of Schools Joseph M. Ferraina stops by the Friends of Gunnison (FOG) fundraiser. Each year the FOG group raises money and collects toys for students of the Long Branch Public School system. Pictured: Ferraina with Michael and Chris Healy.

New Jersey Repertory Company, 179 Broadway, Long Branch, will hold a VIP showing of the musical comedy "Cupid and Psyche" at 8 p.m. Dec. 31, with showtime at 8:30 p.m. There will be wine, appetizers, a catered buffet, party favors and champagne toast at midnight. The cost is $100 for member subscriber of New Jersey Repertory Company and $125 for all others. For reservations, call Teresa at 732-229-3166, ext. 104.

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The CASA for Children Program of Monnmouth County, Eatontown, has received a $10,000 grant from Jewelers for Children to increase the number of volunteers who represent the best interests of abused and neglected children in court. There are approximately 600 children in the foster care system from Monmouth County, and last year, volunteers advocated for 115 of the children.

The first graduating class of the Long Branch Workplace Readiness Skills Certification program received their certificates at the Dec. 19 public Board of Education meeting.

Jewelers for Children is the charibable arm of the jewelry industry. CASA was begun in 2004, and volunteer trainings are each spring and fall. For more information, call Cynthia at 732-460-9100 or visit www.casaofmonmouthcounty.org.

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The youth performing arts group at Jewish Community Center, 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park, will present "Dear Edwina Junior," 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10, and 1:30 p.m. Jan. 11. The musical features 13-yearold Edwina Spoonapple and her troupe of performers presenting their "advice-apalooza festival." The musical appeals to kids ages 5-14. Tickets are $10. For tickets, call the box office at 732-531-9100, ext. 142.

***** The Gay Dads of Monmouth and Ocean counties will hold its next meeting noon-2 p.m. Jan. 18 at United Methodist Church, Red Bank. The group is a forum for gay dads and their children to meet, form friendships and lend support to each other. The group will also share resources of gay parent-friendly services and resources. The group is also open to any gay single or coupled men. Refreshments will be served, and there will be arts and crafts for children ages 2-12. Interested dads are asked to RSVP at www. meetup.com.

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