Agency extends thanks for assistance during storms

As the CEO of the American Red Cross-Jersey Coast Chapter, I have the opportunity to witness the strength of the human spirit each day. During the past two months, the Red Cross has experienced the largest mobilization in its history of human and material resources in response to a natural disaster. In response to the hurricanes, we have deployed more than 25,000 Red Cross workers from across the country. Although hurricanes Bonnie, Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne have long since dissipated, the work of the Red Cross is still going strong.

My deepest gratitude goes to all of our volunteers and employees who have been a part of our relief efforts in Florida and throughout the country. Your dedication and commitment in support of this effort is admirable. I want to offer a personal thank you to those residents of Monmouth and Ocean counties who have given weeks of their lives to assist the people victimized by these hurricanes in Florida — Beckie Burlew, Belmar; Al Figueroa, Howell; Al Benedetti, Brick; Dennis and Denise Texter, Manahawkin; Phyllis Stern, Brick; and Leo Pratte, Neptune.

Also representing the Jersey Coast Chapter at other sites impacted by the hurricanes is Charlene Czajkowski from Lavallette who is assigned to a Red Cross response in Pittsburgh, Pa. Volunteers who responded to the flooding in Hunterdon, Mercer, Sussex and Warren counties along the Delaware River were Jane Keeley, Toms River; Ray and Rosemary Kaden, Spring Lake; Jose Villagran, Eatontown; Marylee Sanders, Holmdel; Larry Rosenberg, Little Egg Harbor; Carl Carino, Manchester Township; Mary Herleth, Jackson; Phyllis Stern, Brick; Barbara Fleischer, Matawan; Cindy Monica, Freehold; Robin Lange, Freehold; Michael Blatt, Lanoka Harbor; Sandy Sessa, Toms River; Greg Roper, Asbury Park; Bertha Levin, Wanamassa; Judy Mugrace, Eatontown; Linda Toop, Lincroft; Mary Spano, Freehold and Jim Lortz, Point Pleasant.

To each of you who have helped out your fellow Americans, whether it was on a disaster assignment, or you contributed at your home or desk, thank you.

Bill Murray

American Red Cross

Jersey Coast Chapter

Tinton Falls