Patricia A. Komsa, of Brick Township, was recently named executive director and Urban Enterprise Zone coordinator of the Lakewood Development Corp. (LDC) and the UEZ program by the board of trustees of the Lakewood Development Corp.

In her new position, Komsa will represent Lakewood on the local, state and federal levels. Her areas of responsibility include, among others, the general supervision of the business and daily operations of the LDC, the preparation and presentation of UEZ projects and plans, and coordination with the director of economic development to work with prospects who might want to sell or lease commercial or industrial real estate that would foster economic growth and job opportunities for Lakewood.

Komsa, a graduate of Lakewood High School Class of 1992, received her Bachelor of Science degree in business administration in 1995 and a Master of Arts degree in business administration in 2005, both from Georgian Court University, Lakewood.

Komsa has served on the Board of Directors of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, and the Industrial Committee of the chamber since 2007. She has also been a member of the One-Stop Career Center Committee of the Ocean County Workforce Investment Board since 2002.

The Standard Group of Tinton Falls is the corporate event sponsor of Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey's (CVCJ) 17th annual Gala, Oct. 20 at 6 p.m. at the View Restaurant, Eagle Ridge Golf Club, Lakewood. Ray and Dawn Marzarella of All County Exteriors, Lakewood, will receive the Hope Award. Kevin Cummings, president and CEO, Investors Saving Bank, will receive the Philip Rubenstein Award.

Tickets for the event are $75 and additional sponsorships are available by calling Judi Dawson, 732-505-2273, ext. 209, or email info@caregivervolunteers.org

CVCJ is a nonprofit interfaith agency whose mission is to assist the frail and homebound elderly with everyday tasks, enabling them to remain independent in their own homes. All services provided are free. For more information and to learn about volunteer opportunities, call Mary O. Malagiere, 732-505-2273, ext. 211.

The Orchards at Bartley, Jackson, received the Best Practices Program Award for the "Creative Dementia Programs and Services: The Whole Package." The award was presented on Sept. 22 on behalf of the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services. This program recognizes and disseminates information about organizations that are breaking ground in assisted living residences, so that other providers can adopt these showcased programs to improve quality. The Orchards was recognized because of its unique approach to caring for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other memory challenges. The Orchards' philosophy of care is centered around a creative and positive interdisciplinary approach, using structured activity based programs in a secure environment to offer residents choice, autonomy and the ability to maintain dignity and optimism. The Orchards Memory Care Neighborhood features a 21-bed unit that is separate and secure.

Dr. Alison DeWaters of Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, Howell, will be reading one of her favorite books, "Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See" at Barnes & Noble of Howell during morning story time on Oct. 6 at 11 a.m. Her special interests include sports medicine, pediatrics, wound care and reconstructive surgery. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son and volunteering for several local charities. Barnes & Noble is located at 4831 Route 9 north in Howell.

• A free career seminar will be conducted by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, New Jersey Coast Section, 5:30-9 p.m. Oct. 12 at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St., Toms River. The career seminar is designed to provide attendees with the information needed to become more competitive at the time of seeking a new job, promotion, or career change. Attendees will meet employers seeking local talent. To register call 732- 758-8024. Details: www.NJseminar.org.

Dressbarn, 4747 Route 9 north, Howell, will participate in a program to raise funds for breast cancer research in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month beginning Oct. 1. A portion ($2) of proceeds from limited time sale of Biscuit stuffed animals will be donated to the American Cancer Society. The cost of the dog is $5. Details: 732-363-2887.