Patch Columnist Recognized for Community Service

Shrewsbury resident and local celebrity Carolann McLoughlin was honored at Monday’s council meeting with a surprise proclamation courtesy of Mayor Donald Burden and the rest of council for her efforts in helping to organize, promote, and in general be the steam powering a recent borough blood drive.

McLoughlin, the sometimes-spicy, yet always sweet columnist of the Red Bank-Shrewsbury Patch column “I’ve Been Thinkin’…” was recognized following the regular portion of the meeting. Burden called her up to accept a proclamation thanking her for her service on behalf of the council and the borough.

McLoughlin’s efforts were part of an early-May blood drive for the Central Jersey Blood Center that brought together the community. Participants included Shrewsbury’s police and fire departments, its schools, residents, and several local businesses, all participating to help save lives and join in a spirit of community.

The drive was detailed in , which of course fails to highlight her role in helping bring together the entire thing.

McLoughlin took the opportunity to thank the council and to make them aware that she’s planning to do it all again, perhaps this time in October, and that they were welcome to spare a pint or two.

The proclamation surprised McLoughlin, who said she’s never considered accolades a reason for performing community service.

“That’s just the way I was raised,” she said. “I’m very pleased to say that I have three children who have perpetuated that feeling of community responsibility and grandchildren who will too.”

Check out McLoughlin’s column every Monday and Thursday on Red Bank-Shrewsbury Patch.