LONG BRANCH — The Greater Long Branch National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held its 65th annual Freedom Fund Banquet this month.
The keynote speaker at the event, held at Gibbs Hall at Fort Monmouth, was Rabbi Harry Levin.
At the event, eight people were named as NAACP 2008 honorees and were presented with community service awards. The honorees are: Lori Ann Vendetti, Wayne Boatwright, Denise Hawkins, Howard L. West, Jason M. Corley, Tyrone Garrett, Tony Padilla and Freeholder Barbara Mc- Morrow.
Vendetti, a Long Branch resident living in one of the city’s redevelopment zones, was honored for showing a relentless resolve to stay the course in fighting to save her home and neighborhood from condemnation.
Boatwright, vice president of Meridian Health Care Diversity Offices, was honored for always being willing to reach out and help residents of the city, even though his hospital is located in Neptune.
The NAACP honored Hawkins for her many years of service and being the past president of the Monmouth County Cotillion. Another honoree, West, was recognized for his 30 years of service as the NAACP president of the Asbury Park, Neptune Branch. West retired this year.
Corley, a teacher and now student facilitator for Long Branch, was honored for his soft-spoken demeanor, which has allowed him to be effective in the classroom.
Garrett, director of the Long Branch Housing Authority, was honored for his vision to improve the living and housing conditions for residents of the city. Padilla, a young businessman, was honored for giving back to the community through Pop Warner and for his involvement in scholarship fundraisers for students.
“I am honored to receive this award, especially during a time when we are faced with so many economical and social challenges,” Garrett said. “It’s been a bold journey; however, with the help of a devoted staff and remarkable board of commissioners, we are able to accomplish the many initiatives on behalf of the residents of the Long Branch Housing Authority, with great success,” he added.
The NAACP also honored McMorrow, a former Asbury Park schoolteacher, retired principal of Howell High School and former councilwoman in Freehold. She is a current Monmouth County freeholder and was recognized for dedicating her life to helping people, especially children.