- Sun, Aug 30, 2026 at 4:00 PM
- Seaside Heights Boardwalk, Boardwalk, Seaside Heights, NJ, 08751
- More info here
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’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’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 @ BillSchmidt1000@aol.com & take a look at our website @ www.usschallenger.org/. 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’s Chaplain, and he is always gracious to assist anyone in need.
Ship’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.
