On November 18, 2025, the Lakewood Community Coalition held its fourth quarterly meeting at the historic Strand Theater, featuring keynote speaker Michele Schreffler-Perez, IA, RCPF, NIN, CADCI, Director of the Recovery Initiative of Support & Engagement (Operation RISE) with the New Jersey State Police – Drug Monitoring & Analysis Unit, Regional Operations & Intelligence Center.
Michele Schreffler-Perez delivered a compelling keynote address highlighting the New Jersey State Police’s efforts to combat substance use and save lives through Operation RISE, a proactive, data-driven program. She explained that the initiative focuses on increasing naloxone availability in communities and deploying outreach teams to overdose hot spots and high-risk individuals. Her presentation emphasized collaboration, trust-building with those struggling with addiction, and connecting individuals to recovery resources. Michele also shared success stories of how timely intervention and coordinated response have positively impacted lives across New Jersey.
The evening ran smoothly under the guidance of Captain Steve Allaire and Dr. Cori Scotti, providing structure and support throughout the event. The meeting was beautifully opened with a heartfelt prayer led by Deacon Chike from the Cathedral of the Basilica of Saint Peter and Paul, setting a thoughtful and inspiring tone for the evening.
One of the special features of the evening was the Harvest Basket drawing, presented on behalf of Chief Gregory H. Meyer. Excitement filled the room as lucky winners stepped forward to claim their prizes, creating a joyful and memorable moment for attendees.
The Coalition was honored to welcome several distinguished guests, including Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, Chief Anthony Carrington, Captain Casey Long, and Agent Michael Colwell. Lakewood faith leaders, community organizations, and other community leaders were also in attendance, along with Valerie Segraves from 107.1 The BOSS, whose presence added further distinction and support to the event.
A special moment during the evening was the celebration of Reverend William Simmons’ birthday. Attendees joined together to sing “Happy Birthday,” adding a warm, festive touch to the gathering.
The Lakewood Community Coalition acknowledges the dedicated contributions of the Lakewood Police Department’s Community Resource Unit — Sgt. Michael Conrad, Patrolman Jason Yahr, Kevin Bell, Jeffrey Emmons, and Joseph Soriano; D/Sgt. Jeannette Shimonovich, Sgt. Peter LaRosa, Director Daniel Brower, and Patrick Sample from Traffic Safety — for their ongoing commitment to community safety and engagement.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Strand Theater for graciously hosting the event in its historic venue. Special thanks also go to Mexico Lindo (2063 Route 88, Brick, NJ), Marinella’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (1195 Route 70, Lakewood, NJ), and Bagel Nosh Kosher Food on Clifton Avenue for providing delicious catering, and to Solutions To End Poverty Soon (steps) for the birthday cake by Gelbstein’s bakery (Clifton Avenue). Additional gratitude is extended to St. Vincent de Paul, June D’Elia, Josette Peterson, and the staff of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish for beautifully decorating the Harvest Baskets, and to Home Depot for generously donating a door prize.
The evening highlighted the strength of collaboration between law enforcement, faith leaders, and community organizations, demonstrating the Coalition’s ongoing commitment to supporting and engaging the Lakewood community.