POMPTON PLAINS, NJ – Once again, Cedar Crest’s residents rose to the occasion to help others. This year, when asked to participate in the first annual Cedar Crest Dress a Doll or Bear Contest, they came out in droves to join in and donate their items to the Salvation Army. The bears and dolls were then distributed to the less fortunate during the holidays.

First, residents reserved the dolls and bears from Maryann Moffa, the volunteer program coordinator at Cedar Crest, who received them from the Salvation Army. Next, they set to work creating the best dressed dolls and bears possible. Some residents dressed their dolls and bears in brand new baby clothes, while others sewed their own clothes. There were ballerinas, nurses, a doll dressed in Hawaiian attire, and even one dressed as a chef. They wore tiaras, jewelry, rain gear, boots, sweaters, hats, dresses, bathing suits, and ribbons. Some came in bath tubs, bassinets, strollers, and even shopping carts. The level of creativity was incredible.

The glamorized dolls and bears were then displayed and judged. Resident Dorothy Tansey was awarded first place for her bear, which was dressed as a bride in a white bridal dress and a beautiful veil. Ann Zito was the second place winner for her bear, which donned a Hawaiian dress and headband. John Schoeller took home the prize for “most original” for his U.S. Army bear. This bear was created as a special salute to our troops.