Apply for Merit Award and Exhibit by Dec. 27 TheArt Society ofMonmouth County has announced its annualMeritAward and Exhibit for high school seniors will be Jan. 12-26 atMonmouth Beach Cultural Center, 128 Ocean Ave. Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 27, and applicants will receive letters of acknowledgement with further instructions. The award recognizes students of outstanding ability planning to major in art after graduation. It is made to applicants without regard to financial need. Art students must submit six original works (paintings, graphics and/or sculptures) from work done during the student's junior and senior years. For an application, call Lucille at (732) 229-3377.