August 23 was a perfect summer day for “Hook-e 2025” at Lake Julianna at Ponderosa State Farm in Millstone.
“Hook-e 2025” allows hundreds of special needs children and their families, as well as active-military, veterans, and their families to enjoy a day of catch-and-release fishing – all free of charge.
Lacey Township Mayor Pete Curatolo (left) and Mark Ugi (right) of American Warrior Outdoors do their duty at the grill. The BBQ food was free – donated by Cardinale Enterprises and its founder and President Vito Cardinale.
Springsteen was one of the day’s special guests – not the rock star – but the therapy pony from Rein Dancer at Laurita, an equestrian center in New Egypt. Here, Springsteen meets Casen Cuzzo, one of his young admirers.
12–year–old Mikey Merzon finds his own private fishing hole along the shore of Lake Julianna.
One fisherman proudly displays his catch before releasing it back into Lake Julianna.
Among the displays available for the guests was this military history display courtesy of the Armed Forces Heritage Museum and Bryan Branson, Vietnam Veteran and President of the Museum.
The ninth annual “Hook-e 2025” was sponsored by the Jersey Shore Vietnam Veterans of America, Cardinale Enterprises, Laurita Winery, Jersey Coast Anglers Association and American Warriors Outdoors.
