Walkers, donations sought for 'Miracle Mile' in O.B. BY JESSICA SMITH Staff Writer Participants in last year's walk-a-thon to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, raised more than $2,000, and organizers hope to top that with this year's event, set for May 4. Robert Hollenfer, event coordinator and owner of Vogue Hair and Nail Salon, is standing at far right with the backwards hat. OLD BRIDGE - The owner of a township salon is doing more than transforming looks. RobertHollenfer is doing his part to help transform lives. "I wanted to reach out to the public in other ways than making them look pretty," Hollenfer said. Hollenfer, owner of Vogue Hair and Nail Studios in Ticetown Square Mall just off Route 9, is doing just that. He is also enlisting the help of others in his quest to help children with cancer, AIDS, sickle cell anemia and other major illnesses. For the second year, Hollenfer is coordinating "A Miracle Mile," a walk-a-thon to benefit the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis. Last year, about 20 walkers and sponsors helped to raise more than $2,000, Hollenfer said. This year, he is hoping to exceed that amount. Hollenfer's interest in donating to the children's hospital was inspired by his mother, Rosalie, a breast cancer survivor. When the children of close friends were diagnosed with cancer, she became involved with the organization, and her son did too. A big draw for the younger Hollenfer is the fact that St. Jude Children's Research Hospital treats all patients, regardless of their ability to pay for care, he said. "Anybody who does that clearly has a concern for the children," Hollenfer said. He, along with some employees and clients, shares that concern. Though the event is spread throughword ofmouth at the salon, itwill also be publicized onOld Bridge TV and on the bulletin board in Municipal Plaza, in efforts to garner support. "It's basically just a group of people that is trying to get together to raise funds for a great organization," Hollenfer said. Thewalk is about 5miles in length, starting and ending at St. Ambrose Church, 96 Throckmorton Lane. Walkers are asked to secure sponsors for their trek, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. While the rewarding feeling of helping sick children is reason enough to take part, the individual who digs deepest for a generous donation will receive an additional reward, Hollenfer said. Last year, he awarded a 10-speed bike to the family who gave the most to help the cause. The bikewas given to a 10-year-old child in the family, he said. No matter what the size of the donation, all contributions are appreciated, Hollenfer said. Corporate sponsorships for the event are also more than welcome. The event is scheduled for May 4 at 1 p.m., and is expected to take between two and a half to three hours to complete. Organizers expect that the Old Bridge Police Departmentwill again providewalkerswith patrol car escorts for the duration of the walk, and refreshment stopswill be provided along the route. To register for the event,make a donation or find out further information, call Vogue Hair and Nail Studios at (732) 679-2822.