To the Editor:
On Thursday, July 2, a benefit concert was hosted in Bayonne to help raise funds for young Bayonne teenager Jillian Elias. Jillian was horribly injured in a car accident, just weeks ago. The concert was held to help the Elias family manage the tremendous medical bills incurred from this accident.
The concert reminded me of why my entire family and I still live and work in Bayonne. When things get tough, people of Bayonne move to the forefront. The response to “A Concert for Jillian” was nothing short of incredible. The kindness, generosity, and support shown by our fellow citizens left me proud to be a Bayonne resident.
The concert featured a 17-piece band, The Chatham Big Band Orchestra, whose performance was nothing short of spectacular. Besides their generosity, patience with rain delays, and three hour set, this band rocked the house with tunes from the Big Band Era.
While many people worked so hard to organize this concert, and I truly couldn’t possibly name everyone, I must throw a shout out to certain people. First, the Mayor’s Office, Bayonne Police Department, Bayonne Fire Department, Bayonne Parks and Recreation, and last, but not least, Robbins Reef Yacht Club, its entire Board of Governors, and its membership. Thank you all for helping in this great cause.
In closing, I’d like to say Bayonne is going through tough times right now and we’ve taken our share of hard knocks. But when the call goes out to help a fellow citizen in need, this town is unmatched.
To the Elias family, and especially young Jillian, all our thoughts and prayers are with you during this remarkable recovery. May the day soon come when your dad, Jim Elias, walks you down the aisle. Our city is here for you. Anyone wishing to donate to Jillian can donate through the M.A.R.E.S. Charity Fishing Organization, c/o Dillin Tire, 492 Kennedy Blvd, Bayonne, N.J., 07002, or Ken Micek at (201) 993-7249.
Thank you again, citizens of Bayonne.
KEN MICEK
Proud Member of R.R.Y.C.