Around the JerSey Shore

Atlantic Shore Woodturners Runs Workshop For Big Brothers Big Sisters

HOWELL – Gnomes, gnomes, gnomes. Atlantic Shore Woodturners (ASWT) ran an extremely successful workshop for Big Brothers Big Sisters where the woodturners taught the bigs and littles how to make one-of-a-kind gnomes.

“We were looking for a project we could do with them where they could go home with two of something to remember the day,” said Jesse Abraham, ASWT Secretary. “Gnomes seemed like a great idea because they could try to make a matched set.”

Once the bigs and littles arrived, after some initial safety instruction on using a lathe, the wood chips began to fly. The bigs and littles, guided by trained ASWT instructors, produced some very original and unique gnome characters. After some final sanding it was on to decorating. Faux fur beards were added, some were given glittered noses, yet others were left natural. “Everyone had a great time and we now have a workshop that is transferrable to other youth organizations we work with,” said Bill Stewart, ASWT President. “M&T Bank provided lunch for all in attendance making for a great, enjoyable day of fun!”

The Atlantic Shore Woodturners has members from Monmouth and Ocean County and meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Howell Community Church, Howell. Club meetings are also streamed virtually for those unable to attend in person. New members, regardless of woodturning experience, are always welcome. More can be learned at their website, atlanticshorewoodturners.com

Local EMT Will Be Capital Police Officer

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – Congratulations South Toms River EMS EMT Alex Linares who on June 9 graduated the United States Capitol Police Academy. US Capital Police Officer Linares will now be a protector of our nation’s capital!

The United States Capitol Police (USCP) is a federal law enforcement agency in the United States with nationwide jurisdic - tion charged with protecting the United States Congress within the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its territories. It answers to the Capitol Police Board and is the only full-service federal law enforcement agency appointed by the legislative branch of the federal government of the United States.

Non-Profit Groups & Vendors Wanted Beach Ball Blast

BERKELEY – The 12th Annual Beach Ball Blast is rapidly approaching. This premier event hosted by the Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department usually draws a large crowd of all ages.

The evening will include a variety of food trucks, games, and music by Jimmy and the Parrots, who were named the best “Trop Rock” band in the country.

Non-profit groups are invited, free of charge, to use this event as a fundraiser by providing various activities, food, or organizational information. They are also accepting food and craft vendors for a small fee. This year’s event will take place on July 21 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. If you are interested in participating, contact: Victoria at 732-506-9090 ext. 5951 or email vwagner@co.ocean.nj.us.