Wall Day Funds Steadily Growing

Though the grounds of the Municipal Complex in Wall Township were still blanketed in snow, the township committee — and the Wall Soccer Club — have set their sights on warmer, sunnier days in July.

Actually, they have begun plans for one particular day — July 3, when Wall Day 2010 is slated to take place, if enough donations are collected from residents and local businesses to make the event happen.

Committeeman Clinton Hoffman spearheaded a project to collect funds for Wall Day several months ago. In light of the township’s tight municipal budget for 2010, the committeeman is collecting donations from locals to fund the event so taxpayers are not burdened with the cost.

"Slowly, but surely, we’re starting to see a large community effort," Recreation Coordinator Edward Grill said. "The community wants Wall Day, and they are starting to step up to the plate."

At the township committee’s meeting last week, resident Dan Manson appeared before the committee on behalf of the Wall Soccer Club. The club donated $1,000 toward making Wall Day a reality.

Mr. Manson also said he is hoping to encourage other sports leagues within the township to donate funds, as well.

"Thank you for what you do," Mayor George Newberry said to Mr. Manson and the soccer club, in addition to thanking the club for its generous donation.

Last year, more than 10,000 residents enjoyed rides for children, live music, food, games, skydiving demonstrations and a fireworks display.

To make Wall Day 2010 happen, Committeeman Hoffman has set a minimum financial fundraising goal of around $26,000.

In addition to the Wall Soccer Club’s donation, Wall Fire Company No. 1 has donated $500 toward Wall Day, and Wall Cleaners, which is located on Belmar Boulevard, has donated $100. Several residents have also made individual donations.

"The community effort is being seen," Mr. Grill said.

Late last week, a mailing was sent to residents requesting donations. The mailing was not paid for by taxpayers. Instead, the mailing costs were covered by the Recreation Trust Fund, which is financed by fees charged for Wall Recreation programs.

On Monday, Mr. Grill said nine donations were received at town hall which resulted from the mailing. Another three were hand-delivered.

He said it was clear the community supports the idea of hosting, and funding, Wall Day 2010.

In addition to completing the donation forms included in the Wall Day mailing, residents and businesses can also log on to Wall Township’s Web site, www.wallnj.com, where they can make an electronic donation.

A thermometer located on the left-hand side of the Web site is linked to a secure donation form, and residents can donate an amount of their choice there.

Businesses can also make donations through the township’s Web site. All business donations, Committeeman Hoffman has said, will be recognized in some form on Wall Day.

Any resident wishing to take a more active part in Wall Day 2010 can do so. A special volunteer committee, which will head the planning of Wall Day, has been formed, with former mayor Michael Clayton acting as the chairman.

Those interested in joining the committee to plan Wall Day 2010 are asked to contact Mr. Grill or Kathy Martone at 732- 449-8444, ext. 250 or 251, respectively.