May

Thursday, May 8 – Sunday, June 15

Women Who Steal - The New Jersey Repertory Company presents the New Jersey debut of Women Who Steal, a comedy about love, marriage, adultery, and the strange friendships you pick up along the highway of life at their theater on Broadway in Long Branch Thursday, May 8 through Sunday, June 15. For tickets call 732-229-3166 or visit njrep.org.

Thursday, May 15

Take Back The Night Rally - The WOBM Hometown Crew stops by the Take Back The Night Rally at Winward Beach in Brick from 6:30PM-8:30PM. Take Back the Night is an international event organized by high schools and colleges to raise awareness about the issue of violence.  We'll have WOBM Hometown Prizes to win including a Family Four pack of tickets to Six Flags Great Adventure!

American Red Cross Golf Classic - The Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross holds their annual Golf Classic at the Eagle Oaks Golf Club in Farmingdale. Call (732)493-9100.X1249.

Friday, May 16 – Sunday, May 18

A Taste Of Greece - St.Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Church in Toms River hosts A Taste of Greece Friday -  Sunday, May 16 – 18. For more details Call (732) 255 – 5525 or visit stbarbaranj.org.

Saturday, May 17 – Sunday, May 18

Yard Sale - The Pine Beach Municipal Alliance for Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Awareness and Prevention holds a Community Yard Sale Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18  from 9AM to 3PM each day. For more details Call (732) 349 – 3465.

Friday, May 16

By The Beautiful Sea: A Luncheon, Fashion and Shopping Event - The New Jersey Repertory Theatre Company & Pier Village present the third annual By The Beautiful Sea: A Luncheon, Fashion and Shopping Event at Pier Village in Long Branch.  Starting at 10:00 a.m. guests are invited to purchase raffle tickets to win great prizes at participating Pier Village stores and restaurants. At noon attendees are invited to a “summer themed” luncheon. At McLoones Pier House while enjoying a Pier Village summer fashion show. Guests will have an opportunity to win a $500 Pier Village shopping spree as well as other exciting gifts. After the luncheon, attendees can enjoy “sweet shopping” as they sample confections at participating Pier Village stores and restaurants. For tickets call 732-229-3166 ext. 104

Saturday, May 17

Walk To Defeat ALS - The WOBM Hometown Crew steps out for the ALS Association's Walk To Defeat ALS in Seaside Heights beginning at 9AM with registration. Be part of a 2 mile walk along the Boardwalk and have an impact on the lives of those affected by ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease)  as well as spread awareness of this devastating disease and the urgent need to find treatments and a cure. For more information click here or call 1(877)GEHRIG1.

Ocean Fun Days - The New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium holds their 5th annual Ocean Fun Days in Sandy Hook from 11AM-3PM with hands-on programs & exhibits, demonstrations, eco-tours and fun activities for the kids about the beaches and bays of the Jersey Shore. For more information click njmsc.org.

Griffin Fest - The St. Joseph/Monsignor Donovan High School Alumni office holds Griffin Fest on at the high school.  Griffin Fest is being held in conjunction with the 21st Annual KBA 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament.  (The KBA 3 on 3 has been held for the past 20 years to raise funds for the Kevin Mitchell ’80 Memorial Scholarship Fund.) The KBA tournament games will begin at 1:00 p.m.  Griffin Fest events will begin in the school’s quad at 4:00 p.m.  Events include a barbeque and beverages, entertainment by the student band, The Boy Judas and the alumni band, The River Dogs and games and activities for children.    Griffin Fest is open to all SJ/MDHS alumni and their families as well as to current students and families. For more information call 732-349-8801, x 2434

Saving Pets By The Jersey Shore - Rescue Ridge holds their fundraiser Saving Pets By The Jersey Shore at Bar Anticipation in Lake Como from 3PM-8PM. Activities include Sasha Mess & her entourage, music, barbeque, gift auction and more. Call (732)681-3450.

Make Jake Smile - Wayside Fire Company hosts Make Jake Smile Family Fun Night Fundraiser from 5PM-9PM at the Firehouse on Volunteer Way in Tinton Falls. Jake is a second grader battling Crohn’s Disease. For more information call (732)371-4490

Yard Sale - The Youth Council of the Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross holds a   Spring Community-Wide Yard Sale from 10AM-4PM in the parking lot of Red Cross headquarters located at 1540 West Park Avenue, Tinton Falls. Bring your items to sell for $10 a parking space. The Red Cross’ Clothing for a Cause will accept donations of   unwanted clothing. Call 732-349-2131 for pre-registration.

Kids Day America International - North Dover Chiropractic Wellness Centre on Moore Road in Toms River hosts Kids Day America/International, a Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness Day from 12noon-3PM. Activities include free children’s fingerprinting, free health screenings and information plus free food & fun for all including a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog For more information call (732) 255-8585.

Yard Sale - A Yard Sale to benefit Children's Miracle Network will be held at First Student Bus (formerly Laidlaw) on Route 35 at 3rd Avenue in Neptune City from 8AM-2PM.

Brick Moose Pig Roast - The Brick Moose hold their 19th annual Pig Roast at the VFW Picnic Grounds on Adamson Road in Brick from 12noon-5PM. Enjoy free pony rides, bocce ball, horseshoes and more fun for the family. For more information call (732)920-9822.

Kids Day America/International - Dr. Tyler Richards on Second Avenue in Long Branch hosts Kids Day America/International, a Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness Day from 12noon-3PM. Activities include free children’s fingerprinting, free health screenings and information plus free food & fun for all including a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog and fire trucks from the Long Branch Fire Department. For more information call (732) 229-1649.

Step Up For The Arc Walk - The Arc of Monmouth holds their 10th Annual Step Up for The Arc Walk at on Saturday, Liberty Park II in Tinton Falls. Registration begins at 9 AM and the walk begins at 10 AM. The Walk benefits The Arc of Monmouth and its programs and services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Call 732-493-1919 for more information.

Walk For Breath & Life - The Goddard School on Lacey Road in Forked River hosts the American Lung Association’s Walk For Breath & Life beginning with registration at 10AM. Help in the fight against lung disease and help raise money to fund asthma camps for children, educational programs for children and adults and lung disease research. Enjoy activities for the whole family including face painting, balloons, farm animals, clowns and more. Click here  for more information.

Sunday, May 18

We Walk For Friends AIDS Walk - The Center in Asbury Park holds the We Walk For Friends 5K AIDS Walk along the boardwalk to benefit those living with  AIDS beginning and ending at the Center on Third Avenue in Asbury Park. For more information call (732)774-3416 or click thecenterinap.com.

Ocean Fun Days - The New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium holds their 5th annual Ocean Fun Days at Island Beach State Park  from 11AM-3PM with hands-on programs & exhibits, demonstrations, eco-tours and fun activities for the kids about the beaches and bays of the Jersey Shore. For more information click njmsc.org.


Family Beach Ball For the Ocean - Clean Ocean Action’s holds their annual seaside fundraiser, Family Beach Ball for the Ocean, from 3-7 p.m. at the Ship Ahoy Beach Club in Sea Bright. Dance to live reggae music and enjoy fresh fare from several area restaurants with activities for the kids and an all ages hat contest. Click cleanoceanaction.org  or call (732) 872-0111 for tickets and additional information.

Wednesday, May 21

Cook For The Cure - Ocean County Vocational Technical School hosts the Cook for the Cure luncheon  from 11:15am to 12:30pm at the OCVTS Brick Center Dining Room, 350 Chambers Bridge Road.  OCVTS Culinary Arts students will prepare a special menu for the day and all proceeds will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. The OCVTS dining room is open to the public for this event.  Call 732.920.0050 ext. 3239 for tickets and additional information. 

MOCD Kick Off To Summer - The Monmouth- Ocean Development Council (MODC) holds their annual Legislative Reception and Kick Off To Summer at McLoone’s Pier House in Long Branch beginning at 5:30PM. The event, hosted by Millennium Radio New Jersey News’ Eric Scott, brings Monmouth & Ocean County legislators and elected officials together with their business constituency in an informal setting where they can share ideas and discuss issues impacting the region. Click modc.com or call (732)223-MODC for more information.

Friday, May 23

Runway On The River - Hovnanian Enterprises in Red Bank hosts the high end fashion event  Runway On the River Fashion Show at their headquarters in Red Bank beginning at 7PM. Proceeds will benefit the K.Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. For more tickets and additional information call (732)751-5112.

Saturday, May 24

Open House - The Herbertsville Fire Company holds an Open House at their Firehouse  on Herbertsville Road culminating with   the grand prize drawing of their raffle to win a 2008 Harley-Davidson Custom Heritage Softail ® Classic. Tickets can be purchased by calling (732) 458-9164. Motorcycle provided by Harley-Davidson of Ocean County on Route 70 eastbound in Lakewood.

Sunday, May 25

40th Annual Sanford Kalb Racewalk - The Lakewood Recreation Program holds the 40th Annual Sanford Kalb Racewalk at Lake Carasaljo (aka Lakewood Lake) beginning with registration at 8:30AM. For more information call (732)577-1911.

Car Wash - The Pinewood Estates Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary holds a Car Wash fundraiser at their  firehouse located at 99 Route 72 in Barnegat  from 10 AM to 2 PM. Cars, trucks, vans and SUV’s are welcome.

Wednesday, May 28

National Senior Health & Fitness Day - The Ocean County YMCA on West Whitty Road in Toms River will join Y’s nationwide to celebrate seniors during National Senior Health & Fitness  Day with  activities designed specifically for this age group and introduces senior citizens to all the ways they can get involved in their local Y’s and their communities.The Ocean County YMCA will be celebrating National Senior Health & Fitness Day from  9:00am-1pm  with  recreational swimming, use of  the sauna and steam room, class observations, complimentary tours, blood pressure readings and cholesterol screenings, community services available and light refreshments.   For more information call (732) 341-9622(YMCA).

Thursday, May 29

Blood Drive - The Pampered Pet Resort & Spa hosts an American Red Cross Blood Drive from 1PM-7PM at their location on Old Freehold Road in Toms River.   Appointments are appreciated but not necessary; call (732)286-4272.  

Friday, May 30

Golf Tournament - PBA Local #253 holds a Golf Tournament at Ocean Acres Golf Country Club in Manahawkin beginning at 1PM. For more information call (732)286-6000.

Saturday, May 31 – Sunday,  June 1

Air Expo - McGuire Air Force Base hosts its Air Expo  Saturday, May 31 – Sunday,  June 1 as a thank you to the tri-state region that supports Team McGuire throughout the year. Headlining this year’s event will be the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds plus F-22 and F-15 air demonstration teams. A large number of current and former military aircraft will also be on display. The event and parking are free;   gates will open at 9 a.m. with performances running from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and static displays remaining open until 6 p.m. All attendees are subject to random security screening. For more information click  mcguireairexpo.info or call (609) 754-1919.

Saturday, May 31

Lavallette School Time Capsule - 25 years ago, the Lavallette School buried a Time Capsule.  The WOBM Hometown Crew is on hand as the capsule will now be opened up as part of a school reunion of classmates, friends and teachers for an afternoon of entertainment, school tours, a World's Fair of projects and activities from 10AM-2PM plus the placement of a new time capsule to be opened in 25 years along with a one-mile fun run

Ocean Medical Center 5K - The WOBM Hometown Crew stops by Ocean Medical Center in Brick for the 5K Race and Community Day beginning at 7AM to help Ocean Medical Center, a nonprofit organization fully sanctioned by the Meridian Health Hospitals Board of Trustees, to continue the tradition of improving quality of care for Monmouth and Ocean County residents. For more information click oceanmedicalcenter.com.

Senior Spring Fest & Health Fair - Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey holds a Multicultural Senior Spring Fest and Health Fair   in Lakewood Town Square on 4th Street & Clifton Avenue in Lakewood from 11AM-5PM. Visit with over 20 non-profit agencies and resources with  information and free screenings including blood pressure, blood sugar, skin cancer analysis, bone density and dental exams.  The event will be hosted by Ricardo Garcia, a Venezuelan soap star.   For more information 732-505-2273 X 203 or visit caregivervolunteers.org
 

James Ahern Benefit - Friends of James Ahern of Manasquan will hold a fundraiser at Bar Anticipation in Lake Como at 2PM. James is a 17 year old suffering from  epilepsy and rare, unknown degenerative disorder; proceeds will go towards expenses related to expenses related to helping doctors diagnose his case. Call (732)245-0192 for more information.

June

Sunday, June 1

Grand Slam CPR/AED - The American Red Cross Jersey Coast Chapter teams up with the Lakewood BlueClaws for Grand Slam CPR/AED at FirstEnergy Park from 9AM-1PM, one of the biggest mass training events ever to take place in New Jersey. Participants will become certified in CPR/AED and also receive a ticket to the BlueClaws game on June 6. Call (732)493-9100 or click jerseycoast-redcross.org for registration and additional information.

All You Can Eat Breakfast - VFW 4715 Ladies Auxiliary of Point Pleasant holds an All You Can Eat Breakfast at the Post Hall on St. Louis Avenue from 8AM-12noon to benefit their scholarship fund. Call 732-892-9725 for more information.

Barnegat Bay Festival - The Barnegat Bay National Estuary Program presents the 11th Annual Barnegat Bay Festival from 10 am to 4 pm at the Wanamaker Complex in Island Heights. Enjoy a day of food, fun, and festivities, rain or shine.  For more details visit bbnep.org or Call (732) 255 – 0472.

James Darby Benefit - Friends of James Darby hold a benefit at Jackson Volunteer Fire Company #1, Station 55, 113 North New Prospect Road in Jackson from 2PM-5PM with buffet meal, dancing, activities for the kids, a raffle and more. .  James was riding his bicycle with a couple of friends in April on a trail and accidently hit a tree and suffered severe head trauma he had to undergo reconstructive surgery.  For more information call 732-886-8965.

Monday, June 2

Freehold’s Finest Chefs: Wrap It Up - The Freehold Borough Educational Foundation hosts Freehold’s Finest Chefs: Wrap It Up at Della Solla Ristorante Italiano on Main Street in Freehold from 7PM-9PM as part of a series of community presentations highlighting the town’s best assets. Participating restaurants will prepare two small plates based on the culinary theme “wrap it up:” food that it somehow packaged or enclosed. For more information call (732)462-3357.


Tuesday, June 3

GSPYO Spring Concert - The Garden State Philharmonic Youth Orchestras present their annual Spring concert on at 7:00 pm at Toms River High School North Auditorium, 1245 Old Freehold Road in Toms River. The concert features students from Ocean and Monmouth counties in three performing groups: the String Ensemble, Concert Youth Orchestra and Symphonic Youth Orchestra. Since 1970, the Garden State Philharmonic has sponsored a three-tiered youth orchestra program to provide young musicians the opportunity to play in an orchestra and receive training to develop and enhance individual musicianship Tickets may be purchased by calling (732)451.0064 or at the GSPYO offices at 150 Brick Boulevard in Brick.

Wednesday, June 4

Red, White & Brew - The Community Medical Center Foundation presents their Third Annual wine and beer tasting event – Red, White and Brew –from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Toms River Country Club. The event, which benefits the hospital’s J. Phillip Citta Regional Cancer Center, features a variety of wine and beers, as well as specialty dishes prepared by area chefs, a silent auction and a cash raffle. Call  (732) 557-8131 for tickets.

Friday, June 6

Classic Car Cruise - The Point Pleasant Chamber of Commerce holds a Classic Car Cruise along Arnold and Bay Avenues in downtown Point Pleasant Beach from 5PM-9PM. Enjoy cars, trucks and motorcycles plus live entertainment. Register to be part of the Cruise in front of Point Beach Interiors. Call (732)899-2424 for more information.

Antique “No Road” Show - The Lacey Rail Trail Environmental Committee holds an Antique "No Road" Show at the Knights of Columbus in Forked River from 6-10 pm.  The event includes dinner and antiques, coin and stamp appraisals by Verde Appraisals and Waretown Coin & Stamp.  Antique appraisals are limited to the first 80 tickets sold but there is no limit on coins and stamps.  For tickets and additional information call (609)693-1861 or visit laceyrailtrail.org

Saturday, June 7

Toms River Founders Day - WOBM hosts The Toms River-Ocean County Chamber of Commerce's 35th annual Founders Day in downtown Toms River with the theme The Good Life-Clean & Green. The Day starts with a parade at 9AM and continues with an all-day street fair along Washington Street including a Food Court to refuel and take a break from the sun. Thanks to the Toms River School District for their support of Founders Day. For more information call (732)349-0220 or click oc-chamber.com.

Learn To Row Day - Navesink River Rowing celebrates National Learn To Row Day with a chance to learn rowing at no charge from 9AM-1PM. participants can try out rowing shells, tour the boatyard and meet with club members. Signups will be available for both youth and adult learn-to-row lessons.  Navesink River Rowing is located at the foot of Maple Avenue in Red Bank, on the Navesink River. Click  navesinkriverrowing.org for additional information.

Yard Sale - The Brick Rotary Club holds a Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 890 Mantoloking Road (corner of Mantoloking and Old Hooper) in Brick to benefit  Brick Rotary Projects for Brick. Call  (732)-341-4676  for more information.

Free Eye Screening - CentraState Healthcare System’s Novo Nordisk Diabetes Center will hold its free annual eye screening on Saturday, June 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second floor of the Donna O’Donnell RN Medical Arts Building adjacent to CentraState Medical Center. The screening is open to all people with diabetes who have not had their eyes examined by an ophthalmologist in the past 12 months or do not have insurance to cover such services. The Center will offer glaucoma testing, visual acuity testing, dilated retinal eye exams, and blood pressure and microalbuminuria screenings Appointments are required, and can be made by calling the Diabetes Center at (732) 294-2574.

Classic Car & Truck Show - The Sentimental Cruisers of Ocean County holds a benefit show to benefit the Lacey High School Football Foundation at Lacey Township High School, 73 Haines St., Lanoka Harbor. from 10AM - 3PM.  For car show or crafter/vendor information call 609-971-3796. 

Junk In The Trunk Garage Sale - The Mothers Center of the Jersey Shore holds  a Junk in the Trunk Garage Sale and Vendor Fair on from 8-noon in the parking lot of Brick Memorial High School, 2001 Lanes Mill Road in Brick.  A donation will be made to Dottie's House on behalf of MCJS from the proceeds. Garage Sellers and Vendors are welcome!  You must pre-register your vehicle - $5 per trunk.  Call 732-673-7234 for more information, or send a SASE and a check for $5 to MCJS, PO Box 3936 Brick, NJ 08724. 

Sunday, June 8

Gift Auction - The Jackson Women of Today present their annual Gift Auction & Luncheon at 1:00pm at the Woodlake Country Club in Lakewood to benefit their scholarship fund,  their ability to aid  families in need and continue their commitment to fund and run the Jackson Food Pantry. Call (732)833-6800 for more information.

Saturday, June 14 & Sunday, June 15

You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown - The Guild Theatreworks presents You're a Good Man Charlie Brown   at the Jersey Shore Arts Center on Main Avenue & Main Street in Ocean Grove on Friday and Saturday, June 13 & 14 at 8 P.M.  Also, on Saturday and Sunday June 14 & 15 there will be a 3 P. M. matinee. Call 732-774-3800 for tickets.

New Jersey Irish Festival - The Lakewood BlueClaws host the 38th Annual New Jersey Irish Festival at FirstEnergy Park, an all day event beginning at 9AM that  includes a pipe-band competition, entertainment throughout the day and a 5 p.m. Mass. There will also be various Irish vendors around the concourse sampling displaying a wide variety of merchandise. Click blueclaws.com for additional information.

Garden Tour - Friends Of Lavallette Beautification hold a Garden Tour of 9 distinctly different gardens from 10AM-2PM. For more information:  732-793-7137.

Asbury Rock Stars Charity Softball Tournament - The Asbury Rock Stars Charity Softball Tournament will be played at Burt Willis Field located on Old Corlies Road in Neptune. Games start at 10:00 am and 12:00 noon with the play-off game at 2:00 pm and the Championship Game at 4:00 pm.  The tournament is played by local bands, solo artists, and support staff & volunteers from Asbury Park and surrounding areas, split into eight teams in an effort to raise money for various charities of their choosing

Sunday, June 15

East Coast Boat Racing Club - The East Coast Boat Racing Club begins their 2008 racing season for new & existing members. Click ecbrcnj.com/ for a complete racing schedule.

Saturday, June 21
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Beach Party
The Toms River Sunrise Rotary hosts its 3rd Annual Beach Party on at the Shelter Cove Park and Beach, Bay Avenue, Toms River from 11AM-6PM.  See crafters, entertainment, dance competitions, a wide variety of food vendors, kids rides, horseback rides, a dodge ball tournament sponsored by our East Dover Fire Company.


All You Can Eat Steak Bake & Gift Auction - The Herbertsville Fire House hosts an All You Can Eat Steak Bake & Gift Auction beginning at 6PM. For more information call (732)840-6669.

Sunday, June 22

Pine Beach 5K & One Mile Riverside Run - Residents of the Toms River South sending district may run in the Pine Beach 5K & One Mile Riverside Run at Vista Park  to benefit the 5K Scholarship Fund. Call (732)349-6425 for more information.

July

Wednesday, July 9 – Sunday, July 13

Harbor House 400- Ride for New Beginning - The Harbor House Harbor House 400- Ride for New Beginnings is a five-day, 400 mile bicycle ride to raise critical funds for Ocean’s Harbor House This dynamic 5 day adventure takes cyclists and support team members on a scenic journey through southern New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania. Riders can also be part of a 3 day, 225 mile ride or a 1 day, 25 mile ride. The ride ends with a Welcome Home Family Day Celebration for all of the riders at Windward Beach Park in Brick Ocean’s Harbor House is a safe haven for children and youth, ages 10-21, who have runaway, are homeless, or have been abused, neglected or abandoned. This agency advocates for the safety and welfare of all youth and whenever appropriate, promotes family reunification. Riders can register at oceansharborhouse.org or call 732-929-9096 for more information.

Saturday, July 19

Wooden Boat Festival - The WOBM Hometown Crew joins in the fun of the 31st Annual Wooden Boat Festival at Huddy Park in Toms River with nautical vendors, marine artists, boat rides, family model boat building, flea market, food & games and more. Call (908) 303-1710 for more information.


Saturday, July 26

High School Reunion - Toms River High School North’s Class of 1983 holds their Class Reunion at the Quality Inn of Toms River from 7PM-11PM. For more information click classmates.com.

Class Of ‘78 - Cherry Hill West High School holds its 30th reunion at Ramblewood Country Club from 7PM-11PM. For more information click classof1978.net/.

August

Saturday, August 30 & Sunday, August 31

Jazz It Up
The Garden State Wine Growers Association presents Jazz It Up at Allaire State Park in Wall Township from 12noon-5PM each day. Sample as many as 200 varieties of top-quality New Jersey wines, listen to great, live jazz entertainment and explore the grounds of Allaire State Park. For more information click newjerseywines.com.

October

Saturday, October 4

MCSPCA Dog Walk & Pet Fair - The Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital hold their 15th Annual Dog Walk & Pet Fair at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft. For more information on sponsorship opportunities call (732) 542-2030.

Chances are still available to participate in Kimball Medical Center Foundation’s car raffle to benefit the hospital’s Mother-Infant Pavilion. The winner can select any 2008 Pine Belt Auto Group vehicle with a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) up to $40,000. Pine Belt Auto Group includes Cadillac, Chevrolet, Subaru, Nissan, Jeep and Chrysler. Tickets for the raffle cost $100 each, and only 1,000 chances will be sold. The winning ticket will be drawn in the hospital’s main lobby on Thursday, May 1, 2008 – Kimball’s 95th birthday. Tickets will be sold up to the drawing date or until all 1,000 have been sold.  To purchase a ticket or for further information, call the Kimball Medical Center Foundation at 732.886.GIFT (4438).

Dream Dollars Raffle - The Brick Township Chamber of Commerce Educational Foundation holds their Dream Dollars Raffle  an, opportunity for individuals to make their own dreams come true as well as those of local students in the form of scholarships.  The raffle is limited to 200 tickets, which are $100 each, and the grand prize is $10,000 based on the sale of all the tickets. “Shares” of a ticket may be purchased as well as the full raffle ticket.  The drawing for the winner will be held on Tuesday, May 27 at 6:30 in the Brick Township Municipal Building.  Call the Chamber of Commerce at 732-477-4949 to purchase a ticket.

You hoped it wouldn’t happen but it has.  You’ve lost your job.  You’ve got a family to support.  Your skills may be out of date.  What do you do now?  You need the personal support and services of a unique organization.  Professional Services Group is ready to help.  They can help you with everything from resume writing to interviewing and everything else you need to showcase your valuable skills.  If the unthinkable has happened, don’t hesitate.  PSG is a no-cost New Jersey Department of Labor supported volunteer organization for professionals in transition. Click click here for more information.

New Jersey Ride Against AIDS - The seventh annual New Jersey Ride Against AIDS, a three day, 250-mile bicycle ride covering the length of New Jersey will be held Friday, September 26th through Sunday, September 28th, 2008. The purpose of the Ride is to raise awareness that AIDS is still a concern in New Jersey and to raise money to address that concern. The Ride is actively recruiting riders, volunteers and sponsors. Registration deadline is September 10th. Anyone interested in riding, volunteering, or sponsoring the New Jersey Ride Against AIDS are invited to visit their website at njrideagainstaids.org or call Pat Sherman at 732.988.6593. Past beneficiaries include. The Ride will begin on Friday morning in High Point (Sussex County) and end on Sunday afternoon in Cape May.

The County Connection, located near JC Penney’s at the Ocean County Mall, is a service of the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders. County residents can learn about programs, services and activities available to them in Ocean County.  The County Connection is open regular mall hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays. For more information, call (732)288-7777 or visit the County Connection web site at co.ocean.nj.us.

Einstein’s Alley Vet Career Connect -  Einstein’s Alley Vet Career Connect is designed to match members of the New Jersey National Guard, a New Jersey veteran or the spouse of a veteran the veteran, to the career that is perfectly suited to them. This initiative focuses on the individual soldier’s strengths and motivations by using a proven Personality Assessment Profile that has been used by over 25K companies to assess over 2.5 million people. This Profile objectively quantifies an individual’s competencies as well as their strengths and potential and matches those core strengths to the requirements of a job.  The expected outcome is a career and not just a job – with the employer needs matched to the employee’s career desires. For more information call (609)524-1200.

Cell Phones For Soldiers – The Central Regional Alumni Association is collecting cell phones and cell phone accessories, regardless of their condition. They are sent to a recycler with the profits used to purchase calling cards for soldiers and their families in the States. For more information call (732)606-6040.

Dell’Omo Realtors in Plaza II on Route 35 in Ocean Township is teaming with the Monmouth County SPCA to find homes for people and pets. With every home sold  Dell’Omo Realtors will sponsor a pet at the shelter. The office will also act as a drop-off location for blankets, towels other items for the MSPCA’s pets. For more information call (732)531-5008 or click ajdellomo.com.

Experience more of the world without leaving home! For 60 years, AFS, a worldwide nonprofit, has been leading international high school student exchange with study abroad programs, volunteer opportunities, and hosting students from other countries. Year round, AFS accepts U.S. families to host AFS exchange students. Host families provide a bed & meals, as well as the same guidance, love, and support as they would to their own children. Local AFS volunteers arrange for students to attend a local high school and provide on-going support throughout the hosting experience.  When you open your home and heart to a child from another country, you introduce the world to your family and give your AFS student the opportunity to take back a piece of America to their home country. To learn more or to apply to be a host family, call  732.816.1709 or visit usa.afs.org/usa_en/focus_on/hosting.

The Popcorn Park Zoo is  selling new Popcorn Park Zoo
T-Shirts at the Zoo in Forked River or by mail. For more details Call (609) 693 – 1900 or visit associatedhumanesocieties.org.

Barnegat Library is looking for donations of books, videos, cassettes, DVD's and CD's for their annual book sale in October. Books may be dropped off at the Library.

A House Is Not A Home Without Food – The FoodBank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties teams up with Diane Turton Realtors to launch a summer food drive with a goal of collecting 2 tons of food by September 15. Donations of canned foods, pasta, cereal and healthy snacks may be brought to any of Diane Turton Realtors 23 offices; donations of 7 or more items will be matched by Diane Turton Realtors. For more information call (732)918-2600.

The Ocean County YMCA in Toms River offers free membership to all 7th graders in Ocean County to live up to its motto “We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.” 7th grade is an important time for children to continue to remain active and gain the life-long fitness practices that will help to keep them healthy in the future. The Strong Kids Membership will be valid from September 1 – August 31, 2008; 7th graders must come to the YMCA on West Whitty Road in Toms River with proof of grade and a parent/guardian. For more information call (732)341-9622  or click ocymca.org.

Ocean County Hunger Relief is collecting children's clothes, coats, & shoes (sizes infant to teen), book bags, and lunch boxes for needy children in Ocean County.  There is a desperate need because the organization almost never has these items. Especially needed are baby items such as diapers, wipes, shampoo, baby wash, etc. The children receiving the donations are either very poor or homeless. Donations may be dropped off at the Hunger Relief office on North Main Street  in Toms River or by calling (732) 505-HELP or by clicking ochungerrelief.org.

Jersey Shore Partnership - Did you know that bathing water quality at New Jersey’s ocean and bay beaches is checked at least once a week? Testing is done more frequently here than in any other state to make sure that our water is safe for swimming. New Jersey has set the standard for nationwide water quality testing. The Jersey Shore Partnership is New Jersey’s leading champion for beach protection and replenishment. To learn more, visit jerseyshorepartnership.com.

Special Olympics New Jersey Athletes compete and train year round. They’re true competitors, spokespeople, policy makers and role models. All through Special Olympics New Jersey and its free programs offered to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Want to be part of the team? Compete...coach...volunteer...donate. Click sonj.org to find out how.

The Susan G. Komen For The Cure Central & South Jersey Affiliate says every year thousands of New Jersey women are diagnosed with breast cancer. These women are mothers, daughters, sisters, spouses and friends. Urge the women in your life to call 2-1-1, a new telephone hotline helping provide qualified callers with free breast cancer screenings and mammograms.

The Toms River Business Improvement District seeks volunteers to be part of an exciting collection of activities to be held throughout the year including the Gallery Walk, the New Jersey State Chili & Salsa Cookoff, Wednesday Farmers Market and more. For more information call (732)341-8738 or click downtowntomsriver.com

Sylvia’s Children - As part of its continuing efforts to improve the lives of children in Masaka, Uganda, and in particular the children at the Mbiriizi Primary School, Sylvia’s Children has begun a guitar drive. Sylvia’s Children was founded in 2004 when, while as an invited guest to Africa, Sylvia Allen, owner of a marketing communications firm, lecturer, educator and author was “adopted” by the children and made their honorary grandmother. Allen saw the ravages the AIDS pandemic had on the community and was compelled to help her newly acquired grandchildren. She founded Sylvia’s children to feed, clothe and house orphans in Masaka and provide education for as many children as possible. Guitars can be dropped off or sent to Sylvia’s Children, 89 Middletown Road, Holmdel, New Jersey 07733. Of course, monetary donations will also be accepted for the purchase of guitars for this initiative. For more information on Sylvia’s Children click www.sylviaschildren.org.

Autoimmune Information Network helps patients and family cope with
the disabling effects of the 135+ known autoimmune
diseases through education and public awareness, linking people with all
available programs and support groups. The mission of the Autoimmune Information
Network is to help patients and family cope with the disabling effects of the 135+ known autoimmune diseases. There are approximately 50 million people with
autoimmune diseases, and 75% of them are women. For nformation call (732) 262-0450 or click aininc.org.

Did you know nearly twenty percent of adults living in New Jersey cannot read a newspaper, fill out a job application, decipher a train or bus schedule, or understand verbal instructions in the workplace? Literacy Volunteers of Monmouth County is seeking volunteer tutors to teach basic literacy and English as a Second Language to local residents in Monmouth County. There are presently students waiting for tutors. They need your help. Training classes are being conducted now and throughout the coming months. Contact Literacy Volunteers of Monmouth County at 732-571-0209 or click www.lvmonmouthnj.org.

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Red Bank Music Community meets every Tuesday at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank to help make the local music scene a true community. The RBMC aims to help cultivate, nurture and foster writers and performers who not feel 100% ready. For more information call(732)915-9821 or click redbankmusiccommunity.com.