Charlie’s photo of the week celebrates the brave efforts of 7-year-old Henry Aulenbach, and his best friend, Bert.

This story began at 3:45 p.m. this past Saturday, in front of the Allamuchy Township Firehouse and First Aid Squad Station, when members jumped into their rigs, lights and sirens blaring, and drove over to the residence of little Henry Aulenbach in Panther Valley.  Henry, 7, is a local first-grader at Mountain Villa School, and whose best buddy is Bert (of Bert and Ernie fame); who counts Pokemon, Star Wars, and riding his bicycle among his favorite things; and who has recently received a certificate of completion for proton therapy to combat a brain tumor.

On scene, Mayor Rick Lomonaco quickly introduced the various guests and presenters of gifts to Henry’s Family and arranged the large group of well-wishers by Henry’s house.  After the presentations by various representatives from the community, Mayor Lomonaco read a Proclamation and declared Saturday, April 6, was Hope For Henry Day.  The ceremony ended with the singing of Henry’s favorite song, the Beatles’ “Hey Jude,” by the entire crowd.

WHAT A SPECIAL DAY FOR ALL!!

Henry and his mom will be leaving tomorrow for Florida with his grandparents to stay at their home for a month.  Our Thoughts & Prayers go with them!

THE PROCLAMATION

“WHEREAS,  Henry Aulenbach is a vibrant 7 year old, 1^st grade student, from Allamuchy Township recently diagnosed with a serious health condition; and

WHEREAS,  Henry’s favorite song is “Hey Jude” by the English rock band the Beatles; and

WHEREAS,  Henry’s favorite Sesame Street Character is “Bert.”  Henry never leaves the house without his buddy “Bert;” and

WHEREAS, “Bert” sent Henry a two minute “Get Well Message” which went viral and has been viewed by over 5,400 people; and

WHEREAS,  Henry enjoys pokemon cards, Star Wars, video games, baseball, basketball and riding his bicycle; and  

WHEREAS,  Henry is “a tough little guy – has ups and downs – one thing in his corner? His stubbornness,” according to his dad David.

WHEREAS, Henry has his own Facebook Page with over 2,157 likes and 2,222 followers https://www.facebook.com/hopeforhen/;  and

WHEREAS,  on April 3, 2019, Henry received his Certificate of Completion from the ProCure Proton Therapy Center. As quoted from the Center “and a special shout out to our littlest graduate and very brave warrior, Henry A. (coin #3999) HopeforHenry – Your courage and strength has touched and truly inspired us all.”

NOW, THEREFORE,  I,  Rick C. Lomonaco, Mayor of the Township of Allamuchy, and on behalf of the entire Township Council, do hereby recognize Henry Aulenbach for his strength, courage and  enthusiasm and further proclaim that April 6, 2019 be declared, “Hope For Henry Day” in the Township of Allamuchy.”