Raises Money For Homeless Vets

Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – A long journey starts with a few steps.

At the end of the road is Larry’s Home, transitional housing that will be for homeless veterans trying to get back on their feet. Part of that journey took place at Winding River Park, where Just Believe held their first 5K run/walk and 1K run/walk.

Just Believe runs the township’s Code Blue center at Riverwood Park, which opens its doors on nights when temperatures approach freezing. CEO Paul Hulse called the 5K “A beautiful day, a won - derful event to help and support our disenfranchised and homeless. Every step, every breath was focused on raising funds to support our community in need.”

He told this newspaper that the event raised $3,500 for (5K - See Page 6) recently gathered at Cedar Bridge Manor Park to mark the beginning of the highly anticipated renovations. On May 25, officials, engineers, and contractors grabbed their shovels to kick-off the groundbreaking ceremony to rebuild a neighborhood park. Last month, the council awarded a $465,412 contract to Robbie Lane Enterprises of Towaco, NJ, to take on the project. This was one of six bids that were submitted, ranging from a high of $572,385 to the lowest bid, which was the winner.

“The township has all the necessary permits to proceed with this project,” Councilwoman Andrea Zapcic previously said at a Township Council meeting. “The project includes (Park - See Page 5)

Reading:

Continued From Page 1 registered therapy dog.

Lexi Majeski, the Youth Services Supervisor at the Brick Library, explained how the program provides a judgment-free zone for kids.

“It’s beneficial using therapy animals to improve children literacy skills and in a fun way,” Majeski said.

The library partners with the nonprofit Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs Inc., which trains, tests and qualifies owners/ handlers and their well-behaved dogs as certified therapy dog teams.

“Our teams visit people in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, schools, universities, and libraries. We also visit private homes, court houses, corporations, attend wellness events and even funerals,” Lorna Klein, Bright and Beautiful Spokesperson said.

Klein said that a dog who is a candidate for therapy dog work begins with having a calm and friendly disposition and who enjoys being around people.

“All breeds and mixed breeds can be successful therapy dogs - it starts with their temperament and interest. And the dog’s owner/handler must have a sincere interest in helping people and have a strong bond with his/her dog,” Klein said.

At a recent Paws for Reading, five dogs were present to help kids feel relaxed while reading. The hour-long program welcomed a number of children who had the chance to pick out a dog-themed book to read to their new furry friend.

Volunteer Linda Horn and her pup Ralfie are regulars when it comes to Paws for Reading. She explained how in addition to going to libraries and nursing homes, her and Ralfie specifically visit someone every week who is home-bound.

“We try to make people happy. We want to put a smile on their face,” Horn said.

Paws for Reading at the Ocean County Library Brick Branch meets every third Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m. The program is open to children ages 5 and up. For more information, visit theoceancountylibrary.org.

Park: Continued From Page 1 line restoration – specifically riprap stabilization edge with vegetation mulch, much like we did at Bay Harbor Beach.” Shoreline restoration will protect the park from erosion and damage during high tides and storms. Other amenities will include a half basketball court, an ADA-compliant playground with age-appropriate equipment, fitness components, a walking trail and picnic tables and benches. Additionally, the Township will add a kayak launch and a bike rack.

“It will be a place where families and friends will be able to gather to create memories that will last a lifetime,” Mayor

Lisa Crate said.

Due to its location along the Metedeconk River, renovation plans for Cedar Bridge Manor Park were delayed.

Previously, permits were delayed since the .91-acre waterfront park on Manor Drive was located in a geographic area of high sensitivity where Native American artifacts might be found.

At one point, an archaeological survey was conducted on site which resulted in no identification of historical artifacts.

Many residents came out to the ceremonial ground breaking to show their support because reconstructing the park is important to its neighboring community.

At this time there is no set opening date, however the work is anticipated to be completed in about three months, weather permitting.

5K: Continued From Page 1

Larry’s Home and that they hope to do another 5K in the future.

“We walk by faith and not by sight,” Hulse said. Larry’s Home would be named after Hulse’s childhood friend Larry Robertiello. He served two tours in Kuwait and Baghdad during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He served from October of

2001 to July of 2004, reaching the rank of Specialist in the Army and receiving four medals. He worked as a plumber in his civilian life. However, when he got home, he suffered from PTSD and addiction, which claimed his life.

A year-round shelter would be a transitional facility, because the goal is to make them independent. Additionally, having one location gives them the consistency that fosters safety, trust, and a home base for them to get the services they need to get back on their feet.

Several religious and other welfare groups host overnight shelters, filling in the gap in service because Ocean County’s leaders refuse to establish a permanent shelter. Many have explained that it can be paid for by a fund fueled by a $5 fee on every real estate transaction but the County Commissioners said they didn’t want to charge people that.

Hulse thanked the supporters and participants for their help in this endeavor.

For more information, visit JustBelieveInc.org.

Brick Garden Club

BRICK – The Brick Garden Club is a civic organization under the auspices of the Recreation Department of the Township of Brick. The purpose of the Club is to educate members and the public about gardening and related areas as well as to enhance the community with beautification projects.

Membership is open to anyone interested in gardening and community beautification. There are no dues. However, members are encouraged to participate in club activities and community service projects.

They meet at the Bob Anstett Cultural Arts Center, 515 Herbertsville Road, the 2nd Monday of every month at 7 p.m., with the exception of January and February (no meeting), July (Garden Tour & Tea), August (Garden Party), and December (Holiday Party).

For more information, visit the Garden Club Website at brickgardenclub.com.

Dine To Donate Fundraiser

BRICK – Join for a special fundraiser for a special friend on July 23 from 12 to 5 p.m. at the River Rock Restaurant in Brick.

Kristen has been battling cancer on and off for years and we’d like to help make her life a little easier and help have some of her dreams come true. 20% of all proceeds during Dine to Donate will be going directly to Kristen. Plus they will have a gift auction as well. All you have to do is come in and tell your server that you’re there for the fundraiser & mention her name, Kristen Rollin.

If you can donate anything towards this event, as far as a gift basket, or want to send a donation directly to Kristen, visit gofundme/c5d48ca5.

2023 Youth Police Camp

LAKEWOOD – The Lakewood Police Department Presents the 2023 Youth Police Camp. Accepting Lakewood’s finest youths ages 11 through 13. Hosted by the Ocean County Police Academy dates: August 14 to 18.

Get excited for SWAT and K-9 presentation, CPR certification, tour of the police department, trips and much more. Lunch will be provided. Register at lakewoodpolicenj.com. Deadline is June 30.

Brick Morning Rotary Weekly Breakfast Meeting

BRICK – On June 14, the Rotary Club of Brick morning speaker will be Sam Pinkava, Northern Lights District Executive, John Brilla, Boy Scouts of America, will also attend.

The Rotary Club of Brick, NJ - Morning meets each Wednesday morning at the Brick Diner at 7:30 a.m. and they welcome guests and prospective members for fellowship and breakfast.