<dl><dt>Sun, Aug 30, 2026 at 4:00 PM</dt><dt><a target="_blank" href="https://maps.google.com/maps?z=10&amp;t=m&amp;q=Seaside%20Heights%20Boardwalk,%20Boardwalk,%20Seaside%20Heights,%20NJ,%2008751" rel="noopener nofollow">Seaside Heights Boardwalk, Boardwalk, Seaside Heights, NJ, 08751 </a></dt><dt><a target="_blank" href="https://www.usschallenger.org/" rel="noopener nofollow">More info here</a></dt></dl>
Challengers Big Potluck Picnic Day
By Communications Officer/Recording Secretary Heide Dziardziel
Challengers BBQ on August 1st was better than expected because we enjoyed the company of our fellow Starfleet members who came from the USS Sovereign in Philadelphia, USS Abraham Lincoln from New York and the USS New Jersey in South Jersey. It was also noted that our chapter had turned 38 years old last month.
Bob Vosseller, commanding officer of the Challenger, made this event possible, and we appreciate his determination in making this event a great success.
Sovereign First Officer Jay Ansky, Lincoln Commanding Officer Rear Admiral Keith Shikowitz, members of his crew and new USS New Jersey Captain Monika Reinholz joined us in a delicious spread that was not only delicious but voluminous in selections.
Challenger members created many outstanding, delicious dishes, including an assortment of BBQ ribs, salads, beans, and too many to mention. We had to take some home.
The dessert table included three delicious pies, cakes, cookies, fruits, cheesecake, and pastries.
The socializing of more than 30 individuals was fantastic, as occupational backgrounds made conversations interesting.
A new member, Elizabeth de Carvalho, from Freehold joined Challenger that day and was very excited. She stated that she had a long-time interest in Starfleet but didn&rsquo;t know how to join until she met Bill Schmidt, the recruiter, at a presentation. She is a connoisseur of antiques at Red Bank Antique Center. Her background is very impressive in business.
Our Asst. Medical Chief Dr. Stephen Vetrano, a board-certified Doctor of Osteopathy who works in an Emergency medical setup and urgent care, has been a member for the past 5 years. He confirmed that Sci-Fi has always interested him.
Keith has led the Lincoln for the past 17 years, had an interesting induction to Starfleet. His son, Adam, initiated the interest. Since Dad wanted to accommodate his child, the relationship with Starfleet began. His first officer, Andrew Sterman, a Lincoln member since 2009, joined to socialize and learn more about Starfleet.
Our Ops Chief Christine Ruff has been a member for 10 years and enjoys socializing while Patrick Comune started as a member of the USS Avenger for five years before joining the Challenger. He has been a member for more than 30 years and enjoys socializing.
Samantha Heer, of Middletown, N.J., joined Challenger in 2001 when she noticed a posting.
Kevin Victor our Security Chief was a member of the Jersey City Police Department. He&rsquo;s been a member for many years and joined when his wife, Julia Victor became a member. They have been, married for 30 years and enjoy the Challenger socializing.
Monica has loved sci-fi for a long time. She was a member of Starfleet in Colorado and, after 22 years relocated to New Jersey.
One of our newest members is Linda MacKenzie who read an article in the Crestwood Sun in Whiting, a section of Manchester Township and decided to join, knowing that it offered a safe fun environment.
Medical Officer Melissa Walker, a member for 2 years, was referred to Challenger by her friend Stephen Vetrano.
Sam Saporite discovered the Challenger at an American Legion meeting with Bill Schmidt, our recruiting officer. If want to join us Call: 732-575-6904 or email @ <a href="mailto:BillSchmidt1000@aol.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">BillSchmidt1000@aol.com</a> &amp; take a look at our website @ <a href="http://www.usschallenger.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.usschallenger.org/</a>. Sam has always been interested in Star Trek throughout his youth, Next USS Challenger meeting will be on August 30, 2026, starting at 4: PM, Sunday on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk vendors wanted and a Movie on the beach as well (Star Trek 60, Anniversary.)
Jim Pecora, a prominent actor who appeared on TV and in movies, delighted us with an interesting conversation about his legacy. In addition to his many talents, he has also been a member of the American Legion for 14 years.
Julia Victor serves as our long-time financial officer and always protects our interests.
An award ceremony was held at the event, officially promoting Emily Daly, our assistant communications chief, to Lieutenant Junior Grade, with a certificate of appreciation. Fellow communications officer Heide Dziardziel was promoted to Ensign 1st class.
Bill Schmidt also serves as the chapter&rsquo;s Chaplain, and he is always gracious to assist anyone in need.
Ship&rsquo;s counselor Emily Vosseller was there with some kind words and several entrees food including macaroni and cheese and a broccoli salad.
It is pretty obvious why the members remain with Challenger: great socializing, good food, and many things to learn.

Ocean County

Karen Wall

New York City Metropolitan Area

Manchester

New Jersey

(Star Trek 60, Anniversary.)

Sun, Aug 30, 2026 at 4:00 PMSeaside Heights Boardwalk, Boardwalk, Seaside Heights, NJ, 08751More info here...

Lanoka Harbor Walmart #5414 gets an Award
By Heide Dziardziel
The 142,000-square-foot Ocean County supermarket that employs over 375 associates in Lanoka Harbor (580 US Rt. 9, Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey 08734) was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation on July 24, 2026, for assisting the American Legion Post 517 in raising donations by offering poppies on May 16th and 17th for Veterans.
 William Ferguson, the Manager of the supermarket, a very patriotic individual agreed to have the event made public, where the funds were, generated with great success.
 Mr. Ferguson is very conscious about hiring veterans that are currently working there, as he gives them priority and recognizes the importance of their contribution to America.
 What is impressive is that Christine, Vassallo, the Assistant Manager and Fashion Coordinator, of the supermarket, also contributed to making this event possible, because without their approval, the event would not have occurred.
 We are looking forward to continuing raising funds for veterans with the cooperation of Bill Schmidt, Commander of the Lacey Township Memorial Post 517. Post address is 15 Lacey Road, Forked River, New Jersey 08731. Cell phone number 732-575-6904 email at <a href="mailto:BillSchmidt1000@aol.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">BillSchmidt1000@aol.com </a>&nbsp;Our meetings are held once a month on the first Monday at 12: noon. Our next meeting is on September 14, 2026, at 12: noon, and his post members consisting of Sam Saporite, 2 Vice Commander. Nick Carabetta, Chairperson of the Americanism Committee, who in the future will supply and promote veterans' events such as this, which will contribute to the next successful poppy offering next year at the Lanoka Harbor Walmart and any other fundraising opportunities as well.
 Also, we must acknowledge, Kerry Cornelius, Jr., 1 Vice Commander, Kerry Cornelius Sr., Emily Daly, Pat Carabetta and many other members for devoting their time &amp; effort to make this event today happen.
 This is one way to make America Great.

Lanoka Harbor Walmart #5414 gets an Award!

Lanoka Harbor Walmart #5414 gets an Award...

<dl><dt>Mon, Sep 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM</dt><dt><a target="_blank" href="https://maps.google.com/maps?z=10&amp;t=m&amp;q=15%20E%20Lacey%20Rd,%20Lacey%20Township,%20NJ,%2008731" rel="noopener nofollow">15 E Lacey Rd, Lacey Township, NJ, 08731 </a></dt></dl>
Heritage Family Restaurant Honors Veterans
By Heide Dziardziel
Nick Bokhari, owner of the Heritage Family Restaurant at 108 Lacey Road, Ste.8, Whiting, N.J., phone number 732-350-9700, was honored with a certificate of appreciation on July 24, 2026, by Commander Bill Schmidt of the American Legion Lacey Township Memorial Post 517, Post Address 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River, New Jersey.
Nick wants to keep alive the memory of veterans who are Prisoners of War and Missing in Action (POW MIA) by displaying a Missing Man table at the Restaurant's foyer entrance.He wants customers to feel at home and respect American values as he honors his dear friend who lost his life in the Army.
Customers not only enjoy the home-like atmosphere while eating, but they also enjoy Nick's cuisine
Commander Bill Schmidt invites veterans to socialize and benefit from the information available at his post. He can be contacted at phone number 732-575-6904 &amp; email at <a href="mailto:BillSchmidt1000@aol.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">BillSchmidt1000@aol.com</a>.
Meetings are held once a month on the first Monday of each month at 12: noon At the post. The next meeting is scheduled for September 14, 2026, at 12: noon, for his patriotism.
By joining, this will keep America Great.

Heritage Family Restaurant Honors Veterans!

Mon, Sep 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM15 E Lacey Rd, Lacey Township, NJ, 08731...

<dl><dt>Mon, Sep 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM</dt><dt><a target="_blank" href="https://maps.google.com/maps?z=10&amp;t=m&amp;q=CHARLES%20A%20SMITH%20COMMUNITY%20CENTER,%2015%20E%20Lacey%20Rd,%20Lacey%20Township,%20NJ,%2008731" rel="noopener nofollow">CHARLES A SMITH COMMUNITY CENTER, 15 E Lacey Rd, Lacey Township, NJ, 08731 </a></dt></dl>
Join the American Legion Post # 517 we want YOU!
Charles A. Smith Community Center, 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River, N.J. 08731. For more Information: please call Bill Schmidt, Post Commander at 732-575-6904 or email at <a href="mailto:BillSchmidt1000@aol.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">BillSchmidt1000@aol.com</a>. Just tell us you want to join the American Legion Post 517. Give us a call &amp; we will help you sign up for membership in the American Legion Lacey Township Memorial Post 517. Bring your (DD 214) discharge papers with you (Copy only Please). American Legion Post # 517 Lacey Township, we have a great support system in Ocean County, you name it we are one of the best posts in Ocean County New Jersey. Can&rsquo;t wait to (MEET YOU IN PERSON.) Meetings are on the first (1st) Monday of each month at 12: noon. Still working &amp; you are not able to make a meeting on a weekday then we will start a first Saturday each month meeting will start at 12: noon. Next Meeting September 14, 2026, at 12: noon.

Join the American Legion Post # 517 we want YOU!

Mon, Sep 14, 2026, at 12:00 PMCHARLES A SMITH COMMUNITY CENTER, 15 E Lacey Rd, Lacey Township, NJ, 08731...

250th
U.S. Birthday held at Lacey Township Municipal Building
By Heide Dziardziel
The scorching heat of over 105 degrees was not only felt on July 3rd. At the Lacey Municipal Building, during a presentation of the Declaration of Independence by Sam Saporite, we can imagine how emotionally devastating it was for the Patriots during the 1776 reading of the Declaration of Independence, as it pertained to the King of England, George William Frederick 111 who reigned from 1760 to 1810. By resisting the Declaration of Independence, the patriots considered him an antagonist and tyrant during the Revolutionary War.
Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are relevant to maintain our freedoms, as documented in the Declaration of Independence. 
We give credit to Lacey Township Mayor Steven Kennis, a promoter of the 250th
Birthday Flag Raising event in support of the Vets and First Responders, including Bernie Snyder, Chair of the Lacey Veterans Commission since the 1980s, for organizing this outstanding event. 
We were honored by numerous American dignitaries, including Senator Amato, who paid homage to the Veterans, saying, &ldquo;Without them, we would not be a great democracy of today.&rdquo; He gave an invigorating and uplifting speech in support of our Veterans and First Responders. We appreciate his concern and active participation in events for Veterans.
Assemblyman Brian Rump gave an invigorating and uplifting speech in support of our Veterans and First Responders. 
Sam Saporite, in his authentic 1776 garb, presented us with a reading of the Declaration of Independence and an enactment of the public's visible reaction to the reading by booing, showing emotional patriotism to the American Cause. 
The presentation included a salute to raising the U. S. American Flag, done by Peter Borchester. 
Numerous officiants who witnessed and participated in the U.S. Birthday ceremony included the following:
Bill Schmidt, the Commander of the American Legion Post 517 in Lacey Township Post Address: Charles A. Smith Community Center, 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River, New Jersey.
Kerry Corneluis Jr. 1st, Vice Commander &amp; Membership Committee Chairperson
Sam Saporite, 2nd, Vice Commander and membership correspondent
Zee Valez, Historian and Chaplain
Lacey Police Department 
Lacey Fire Department ( Bamber Lake )
Bayville, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars 
Smith Detachment MCL (Marine Corps League)
Bob Meola, Commandant
Bill Pivanick, Sr. Vice Commander
Jim Barrow, Pay Master
Raymond Rothfeld, a participating politician in resolving legislative issues.
Richard Schadl- Trooper
Peggy Sue Juliano, the Committee Women in Lacey, and a liaison to the Fire Department &amp; DPW (Department of Public Works) and the Police Department. She has served for 4 years. Peggy expressed her desire, indicating that she wished to have seen more members attend the event. Veronica Laureigh, Lacey Township Municipal Administrator, also helped make the US Flag Raising Event a success.
We honor and appreciate our members of the aforementioned departments for their support while they stood in the sweltering heat in uniforms.
We pray that American values remain solid as intended by the original writers of the Declaration of Independence.

250th U.S. Birthday held at Lacey Township...

250th U.S. Birthday held at Lacey Township Municipal Building.

Toms River

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Wall

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Unemployed? Obtain a Free Training Grant for Top Certifications

Join us for our next&nbsp;Open House/Information Session&nbsp;day on&nbsp;Tuesday, August 11th at 10am, 12pm &amp; 2pm&nbsp;at the Ocean County Library - Brick location.&nbsp;This is a great opportunity for individuals interested in the&nbsp;human services field. All attendees should complete an online application prior to attending a session. On-the-spot interviews will be conducted following each information session. We have immediate openings in a variety of roles (Direct Support Professional, Case Manager, and Support Coordinator). No past direct care experience is required for some roles; we provide&nbsp;paid training.
Event Details: Date:&nbsp;Tuesday, August 11th Time:&nbsp;sessions begin promptly on the hour at 10am, 12pm &amp; 2pm Location:&nbsp;Ocean County Library - Brick (301 Chambers Bridge Rd. Brick, NJ)
Can’t attend but still interested? Apply online <a href="https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/32372A0AAE8B8C3A9B3D62832D663435/career-page" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">HERE</a>!

Local Event: Alternatives, Inc. Open House/Information Session

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Alternatives, Inc. Open House/Information Session

Join us for our next Open House/Information Session day  on Tuesday, August 11th at 10am, 12pm & 2pm at the Ocean County...

Custom awning and shade solutions in Ocean County, NJ

Liberty Door and Awning

Liberty Door and Awning is a trusted provider of custom awning solutions serving homeowners and businesses throughout Ocean County, NJ. Established in 1968, the company brings decades of experience in delivering durable, functional and visually appealing shade systems for a wide range of properties. The team offers a variety of awning styles, including retractable awnings, window and door awnings, exterior solar shades, retractable horizontal shades and pergola canopy shades. The company also provides free in-home consultations, so customers can receive accurate measurements and personalized recommendations. Its experienced technicians handle both installation and repair services to address issues such as fabric wear, structural concerns and motor malfunctions. Each awning type can be tailored to your property, helping you improve outdoor comfort, reduce heat exposure and improve overall curb appeal. Known for its reliable service and attention to detail, Liberty Door and Awning has built long-standing relationships across Ocean County. Customers often rave about the team’s responsiveness and commitment to standing behind their work, even after installation is complete. In addition to awnings, the company also installs and services garage doors, entry doors, windows and hurricane shutters.

Liberty Door and Awning is a trusted provider of custom awning solutions serving homeowners and businesses throughout Ocean County, NJ. Established...

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Burlington County

Burlington

Southampton

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Sparkle Sisters Total Cleanse 

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65 MPH Winds, Hail Possible As Severe Storm...

Flash flooding and locally damaging winds are possible Friday night as severe storms are set to lash the state.

65 MPH Winds, Hail Possible As Severe Storm Watches Issued In NJ

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Camden County

Gloucester Township

NJ Man Accused Of Scamming Pro Athletes Out Of...

Around 24 current and former players were said to be used to get new money on board. 

NJ Man Accused Of Scamming Pro Athletes Out Of Millions Found Dead In Pool, Authorities Say

Crime & Safety

🌱 Patch AM: a.k.a. Band at Woody's Roadside...

Make time for Unemployed? Obtain a Free Training Grant for Top Certifications on the Manchester Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: a.k.a. Band at Woody's Roadside Tavern! and 13 more events

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