Click here for Home Page

Click here for E-Board Communications

Archives of E-Board Communications 2016 will remain on this page for members' review. Just click on a month to be directed to all communications sent during that month.

January 2016	February 2016	March 2016	April 2016
May 2016	June 2016	July 2016	August 2016
September 2016	October 2016	November 2016	December 2016

December 2016

December 26, 2016 - End of Year Report

Dear Members,
The Executive Board of BSHCA hopes all have had a happy and joyous holiday and looking forward to 2017. This newsletter will be a pleasure to write and will be continued into next week due to its length. Looking back, it was apparent that we had many positive accomplishments that have benefited our waterfront neighborhood, BSHCA and our Berkeley Community in 2016. Our board works diligently and continuously to complete its collective and individual responsibilities, creating new opportunities for improvement and protection of our neighborhood, for social activities that can be enjoyed by all who wish to participate and for addressing our civic responsibilities. I will begin with the all-important subject of membership because without you, there is no BSHCA.

1st VP Ken Gerb

For several years, our 1st VP Ken Gerb has done an excellent job of managing our membership roster, new membership drives, recruitment and renewal. This year we reached 98% of our efforts to renew existing members even though we lost several households due to relocation. Had they not moved we would have reached our goal of 100% or better, counting new members gained during the year. We have also identified 38 recent new households and are actively recruiting them with the help of long time BSHCA member, Mary Lou Andrews. We are close to the 700-member mark and hope to exceed that with a successful effort.
In addition to Membership Chair duties, Ken also organized our 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament held in July 2016. Due to your response, this first effort was wildly successful, adding a profit of $2,700 to our treasury. Ken and his committee of Jim Benn, Dick Andrews and Pete Vetro have already started the ball rolling for the 2nd Annual Tournament scheduled for July 20, 2017. Get your foursomes ready now. Thank you, Ken, for the very thorough attention you give to whatever task you are asked to manage and for your advice and council to me.

2nd VP Bob Nunn

Bob Nunn is primarily responsible for working with the Township Code Enforcement Dept., responding to property code violations observed by him and for those conditions reported by individual members. Bob is diligent with follow-up, but since much of code enforcement favors the property owner, results are sometimes frustrating and slow.
Bob has oversight responsibility for paid ads that appear on our Web Site from local business owners who wish to advertise their products and services. Please consult our web site since these ads provide additional revenue to the association.
Bob’s professional realty experience gives him the opportunity to provide monthly updates on our Web Site, of sales and listings in our local waterfront neighborhood. Listings are valuable to our membership, providing research sources for current property market values useful for sales and property tax appeals.
As a Commissioner on the Berkeley Township Waterways Advisory Commission, Bob accepted the chairmanship of updating the Township’s Bulkhead Ordinance Practice, passed by the Township Council on December 5, 2016 and awaiting county approval.
This project has been two years in the making, updating construction and maintenance of bulkheads into current standards with specifications for items such as vinyl sheathing, rod materials and more. Thank you, Bob, for the attention and time you give to your areas of responsibility, for your time dedicated to our Waterways Commission and for your advice and council to me.

Treasurer John Schnitzer

John is our money guy, very diligent and thorough in his management of our Treasury. Our current balance of $17,422.00 keeping us in a healthy position to consider projects for 2017 that can be managed and afforded within our financial capabilities. The current audit, completed in 2016 by member Rich Pachuki, certifies us as sound.
In addition to John’s responsibility as treasurer, he also maintains our Center Island, updating the bulletin board with meeting notices, as well as those inspirational messages between BSHCA business messages.
In 2016, John oversaw the purchase and installation of our flagpole and dedication plaques to our veterans and active military. (Formal dedication will be announced in the spring of 2017.) In addition to the flag pole was the purchase and installation of our lighthouse, a replica of Barnegat Lighthouse, with solar lighting. All maintenance of the island is conducted by John and his volunteers. The seasonal and theme painted figures are handmade by John and placed appropriately as the seasons and holidays change.
John served on Ken Gerb’s 1st Golf Tournament Committee and was very involved with the recruitment of sponsors from the Berkeley Twp. business community. Thank you, John, for the dedication to your responsibilities, your advice and council to me and especially to the care and attention you give to our Center Island, The “Gateway to Berkeley Shores.”

Secretary, Lucille Pavolic

BSHCA has been in existence for 31 years and Lucille has served on boards for at least 15 years. For as long as I have known her, she has been available to serve in any position and do any job asked of her. Much of her time was spent on our many social activities, parties, affairs, and events. Now, she presently serves as secretary and has done so for at least the past 10 years. Thank you, Lucille, for your many years of service to BSHCA and for anything I ask of you.

Chairman Jim Benn - Scholarship

Jim and his committee consisting of Irene Benn, Nick Donatiello and Carol Rusnak, ad hoc members of the board, represent a vital part of our civic responsibilities. Together and in total independence, the committee selects the winners of the 3 annual scholarships provided by BSHCA, utilizing a somewhat complex matrix process developed by them. Scholarships are presented at the Central Regional High School and at our annual BSHCA meeting in June. Thank you, Jim for your participation and advice for changes to the program and to the committee for years of dedication and your council to the philanthropic arm of BSHCA.

This theme will continue next week, addressing the directors of BSHCA.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

December 20, 2016

Dear Member,

These weekly messages are issued from the executive board to encourage all to stay in touch. Please let us know of issues, news, or activities that you believe would be of interest to others in our efforts to help better serve our community. Contact us on info@berkeleyshores.org. Changed your email address? Advise membership chairman on members@berkeleyshores.org.

Holiday Season

The BSHCA Executive Board wishes all members and residents a happy and safe holiday season. If you are driving to family please drive safely, especially if weather conditions are threatening. We want all to return safely back to Berkeley Shores

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Our scholarship program is underway and we are taking candidates for review by his committee. (Irene Benn, Nick Donatiello, Carol Rusnak). All information needed for application is available by clicking on http://berkeleyshores.org/scholarship.html

Our Charitable Wing of BSHCA – Charles Crunkleton and Cathy Peach (Repeat)

Because of you over 200 children in treatment centers for cancer and other serious ailments will be a bit more joyful this Christmas season. Cash donations for toys totaled $850 and bags of toys for “The Wishes Do Come True” program made this drive a huge success.

In addition, we collected bags of personal items for shipment to our military serving in dangerous parts of the world along with our $300 BSHCA donation for phone cards. Lloyd Mullikin will see to distribution through his network. Due to your generosity, we collected more toys than needed which provided toys to Berkeley Township Local PBA#237 for their annual toy drive. Thank you all.

Golf

At the request of Mayor Amato, we will be emailing a questionnaire pertaining to our local Cedar Creek Golf Course. The township continues to improve the facility for your golfing enjoyment and needs input from its’ residents to make necessary changes most important to you.

Please note the date of our 2nd Annual BSHCA GOLF TOURNAMENT, held at Cedar Creek GC is July 20,2017. Hope to see all you golfers out there again this year!

- Mayor’s HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.

- Police Chief’s TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

December 12, 2016

Bulkhead Ordinance

The second and final reading of the Berkeley Township Bulkhead Ordinance was read and passed at the December 5th Mayor/Council meeting without comment. The next step will be presentation to the County for final approval. My understanding is approval will be made within a 20 day period. For clarification, this ordinance replaces the existing document. It was updated to include modern materials (vinyl) and to assure soundness of the structure upon the sale of waterfront properties. And more.

Membership

December officially ends our 2016-2017 membership drive. While we did not reach the level of 2015-2016 drive, falling short by 14 people, we have a list of 38 homes with new owners. Many of the homes were owned by former BSHCA members. Member Mary Lou Andrews has volunteered to solicit all homes on the list for recruitment into the BSHCA active member roll. We are hopeful that a successful drive by Mary Lou will exceed our previous active member list. Anyone wishing to help Mary Lou, please contact us through our contact page on the web site, http://berkeleyshores.org/contactus.html. Thank you Mary Lou and Good Luck.

Neighborhood Awareness – Computer Scams

During this holiday season, many scams have been devised to not only falsely advertise, but more importantly, to gain personal information such as Social Security and bank account numbers. Be careful when going online. In your email, if you are unsure of the sender or if the way they address you is suspicious, delete it. Clicking on links can open your computer to dangerous malware, which inserts software designed to seek out information on your personal business and your records.

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Our scholarship program is underway and we are taking candidates for review by his committee. (Irene Benn, Nick Donatiello, Carol Rusnak). All information needed for application is available on our web site, http://berkeleyshores.org/scholarship.html.

Our Charitable Wing of BSHCA – Charles Crunkleton and Cathy Peach

A huge thank you to all our wonderful BSHCA members, to Cathy Peach and her Happy Hookers and Sarah's Salon in Bayville. Because of you over 200 children in treatment centers for cancer and other serious ailments will be a bit more joyful this Christmas season. Cash donations for toys totaled $850 and bags of toys for “The Wishes Do Come True” program made this drive a huge success. Cathy and Harold Peach and the Happy Hookers segregated all toys into boy, girl and age groups just in time for the pick up by the hospital personnel from Robert Woods Johnson and Specialized Needs Childrens’ Hospital.
In addition, we collected bags of personal items for shipment to our military serving in dangerous parts of the world along with our $300 BSHCA donation for phone cards. Lloyd Mullikin will see to distribution through his network.

Social Activities – Director Jerry Coppola

Our social director, Jerry Coppola is seeking out ideas for a winter trip close by within the state or neighboring states.
Please respond if you have suggestions for a day trip. Call Jerry on 732 237 8855.

- Mayor's HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
- Police Chief's TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

December 5, 2016

Dear Member,

Special Announcement – Bulkhead Ordinance

The 2nd and final reading of the Berkeley Township Bulkhead Ordinance is scheduled to be heard at the upcoming Mayor/Council meeting tonight, December 5, 6PM, Town Hall.

Neighborhood Awareness – Computer Scams

During the holiday shopping season, many scams have been devised to not only falsely advertise, but more importantly, to gain personal information such as Social Security and bank account numbers. Be careful when going on line. If you are unsure of the sender or if the way they address you is suspicious, delete it. Clicking on can open your computer to dangerous malware, which inserts software designed to seek out information on your personal business and your records. Some of our members, especially veterans, may have active accounts with USAA. Be careful of a recent email request for account information for money transfers. The message looks very official, but it is a scam.

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Second Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, July 20, 2017- Chairman, 1st VP Ken Gerb

We are starting to organize our 2nd annual BSHCA Golf tournament and are looking for a few more members with golf experience interested in joining our golf committee.
If you are interested, please contact me ASAP at: BSHCA, 1st Vice President - Ken Gerb -- members@berkeleyshores.org

Social Activities – Director Jerry Coppola

- Mayor's HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
- Police Chief's TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

November 2016

November 28, 2016

Special Announcement – Bulkhead Ordinance

The 2nd and final reading of the Berkeley Township Bulkhead Ordinance is scheduled to be heard at the upcoming Mayor/Council meeting on Monday, December 5, 6PM, Town Hall. Concerns and questions can be directed to the BSHCA executive board via our web site, berkeleyshores.org or directly to the governing body on December 5.

Happy Hookers /Military – Liaison, Director Charles Crunkleton

The headlines in the Asbury Park Press read, “Food and Toy Donations Take Plunge.” That is not the case in Berkeley Shores. While we do not yet have a full count of toys donated by our membership, customers from Sarah’s Salon and groups outside of Berkeley Shores, it looks like we will surpass our goal of 200 toys or come very close. In addition, your generosity did not stop at toy donations. You responded very well to our request for the needed personal items for our military and cash donations exceeded $800 dollars. Cathy Peach, Charles Crunkleton and the ladies of the Happy Hookers group are most appreciative of your response. And let’s not forget the happy recipients of your generosity, the children and our military, during this holiday season. A grateful and heartfelt thank you to all.
For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Neighborhood Awareness - Charitable Donations

Sitting in my doctors’ office the other day, a magazine article caught my eye, the subject being charities and how responsible they are when spending our donations. Some charities spend more than 90% of their donations for their stated purpose, while others spend just the opposite on administration and fundraising. If you are interested in how your donations are allocated, click here for Charity Navigator. Charities are listed alphabetically and rated. While it may not tell the complete story, pay close attention to the amounts budgeted for administration and fundraising.

Green Light for Our Military

Don’t forget that green outside light for our military support program. The bulbs are available in 2 base sizes, standard and the smaller bayonet type, depending on the fixtures in your landscaping and porch lights.

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Social Activities – Director Jerry Coppola

As we enter the winter doldrums many will be headed for warmer climates, but many will remain to tackle snow removal duties and such. In the meantime, Jerry and JoAnne are busy looking at possible day trips that might help us to get us through the cold weather.
Is there interest in a trip to New York City’s Lincoln Center to listen to the NY Philharmonic practice its performance, lunch and a few hours at the metropolitan Museum of History or Art? Please respond if you are interested or give us some suggestions for an alternate venue. Call Jerry on 732 237 8855.

- Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
- Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

November 21, 2016

Special Announcement – Bulkhead Ordinance

Along with members 2nd VP Bob Nunn and Chairman Bill McGrath of the Township Waterways Advisory Commission, I attended the council meeting on Monday, November 14, 2016 for the first reading of the proposed Township Bulkhead Ordinance. The second reading will take place on Dec 5 and with no objections or comments, will be forwarded to the county for final passage. Totaling 14 pages, it can be read on our web site by visiting the homepage berkeleyshores.org. There you will find a short introductory letter and instructions on accessing the ordinance. The adoption of this ordinance will oversee bulkhead conditions by the township with authority to act when repair or replacement is necessary. Questions or comment can be directed to the council at the December 5 Mayor/Council meeting.

Neighborhood Awareness

In recent discussion with Police Chief, Karin DiMichele, a bit of direction pertaining to reporting of incidents can be helpful. There are three avenues of reporting to our local police:

For an immediate emergency when time is of the essence, call 911.
For an occurrence or to report a suspicious individual, not an emergency but in your estimation, requires police attention
at the moment call 732 341 6600.
For other incidences that are of a suspicious nature, but not urgent, such as different cars visiting a certain residence with frequency, call the Police Tip Line. 732 341 1132 ext 611

Membership – 1st VP / Membership Chair, Kern Gerb

We nudged up just a bit more. We now are just 18 away from matching our membership total from the last renewal cycle. If you have not yet mailed in your $30 household dues payment, please do so as soon as possible so that we may wrap up the campaign for this cycle.

Green Light for Our Military

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Our scholarship program is underway and we are taking candidates for review by his committee. (Irene Benn, Nick Donatiello, Carol Rusnak). All information needed for application is available on our web site, berkeleyshores.org/scholarhip.html

Happy Hookers /Military – Liaison, Director Charles Crunkleton

You are responding nicely to our request for toys and personal items for our military in anticipation of the holiday season. Charles Crunkleton and Cathy Peach are very appreciative of your response. Item lists are available on our BSHCA web site. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. click here for the NEW 2016 list of ideas. For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities – Director Jerry Coppola

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
A great time on Thursday, the show was enjoyed by all. Each year, while the songs are similar, the staging, costuming and story line is different. There was a strong response to return for next year's show. Please plan on joining us if you have not yet attended. Thanks to Jerry and JoAnn Coppola for a great job.

- Mayor's HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
- Police Chief's TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

November 14, 2016

Membership – 1st VP / Membership Chair, Kern Gerb

We nudged up just a bit to 97%. We are just 24 away from matching our membership total from the last renewal cycle. Ken is doing his best to get to the magic number, but he can’t do it without your support. If you have not yet mailed in your $30 household dues payment, please do so as soon as possible so that we may wrap up the campaign for this cycle. Don’t forget that neighbor who might not be a member. Put that application form to good use. You can also print one out from our web site.

Elections 2016

This certainly was not a typical election year, with the campaign for the presidency overshadowing all other elections taking place around the country. In our township of Berkeley, it was about our two school boards, Central Regional and Berkeley Township. In all, 15 candidates challenged for a total of six seats. For the Berkeley Township School Board, incumbents Edward Cammarato and Stephen Pellechia were returned, joined by newcomer, Michelle Shedlock. On the Central Regional side, incumbent Jennifer Leicht was returned, incumbent from the Berkeley Township School Board Louis Tuminaro was elected, joined by newcomer Ralph Frulio. For the 3rd Congressional District, incumbent Tom MacArthur was returned to the House of Representatives. Congratulations to all and we wish you well.

Green Light for Our Military

Last week we asked that you consider replacing an exterior light bulb with a green light bulb in support of our military. The bulbs are available in 2 base sizes, standard and the smaller bayonet type, depending on the fixtures in your landscaping and porch lights. How impressive it would be if all homes in Berkeley Shores could display the green lights in support of our military. What a nice reminder as we drive down our streets in the evening. Let’s do our part.

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Happy Hookers /Military – Liaison, Director Charles Crunkleton

It is not too late to donate toys and personal items for our military in anticipation of the holiday season. Needed items lists are available on our BSHCA web site. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. Click here for the 2016 list of ideas. For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities – Director Jerry Coppola

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
Please arrive at the Recreation Center on Rt 9 at 8:30AM for boarding of the bus. Questions can be directed to Jerry Coppola on 732 237 8855.

- Mayor's HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
- Police Chief's TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

November 7, 2016

Dear Member,

Membership – 1st VP / Membership Chair, Ken Gerb

As a result of our 2016-2017 Drive, 96 % of you have renewed your membership in BSHCA for this cycle. Ken is very appreciative of your response, giving us the needed revenue to continue the good works of our civic organization. Don’t forget that neighbor who night not be a member. Put that application form to good use. You can also print one out from our web site.

Elections 2016 – Don’t Forget to Vote

On Tuesday, November 8, we will be casting our votes for a new president and all 435 members of the House of Representatives, as well as county and local Berkeley Township elections. BSHCA is a civic organization and does not endorse nor do we support a political agenda. Our 15 local school board candidates have been invited to address the membership with a personal letter which will appear in our web site, berkeleyshores.org. Their letters can be read by accessing the web site. Click here for “Elections 2016 School Board Candidates Speak Out.”
A link to the web sites of each of the 3 candidates for the House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of New Jersey under the heading, “3rd Congressional District Candidates,” is also available on the web site.

Green Light for Our Military

Our military, stationed throughout the world in dangerous life threatening missions, deserves our support. The Walmart* Company has sponsored a program of recognition called “Green Light for Military.” You can participate by replacing an exterior light with a green bulb available at Walmart* stores. The bulbs are available in 2 base sizes, standard and the smaller bayonet type, depending on the fixtures in your landscaping and porch lights. How impressive it would be if all homes in Berkeley Shores could display the green lights in support of our military. What a nice reminder as we drive down our streets in the evening. Let’s do our part.

2016 Annual Food Drive – Event Director Gary DiNallo

Our Annual Food Drive was held on Saturday, November 5. Director, Gary DiNallo, is very appreciative of your contributions. You filled the entire cargo area, seats collapsed, of his SUV. Fifty bags of food items were delivered to St. Barnabas Parish Food Pantry. Three bags of items for military and two large boxes of toys along with cash donations were delivered to Cathy Peach Happy Hookers group. Thank you for your generosity, caring and response to the drives that support our community.
A special thank you to Director, Gary DiNallo, his wife Ellen and Director Charles Crunkleton.

Scholarship Program – Chairman Jim Benn

Neighborhood Environment – Waterways Advisory Commission Chairman, Bill McGrath

Through the recommendation of the BTWAC, our Engineering Department provided for the installation of two catch basins designed to drain water from the roadway, resolving the storm water buildup conditions at the entrance to Carlyle Drive.
Wondered what those large sewer pipes are doing on the corner of Bayview and Veeder? The second phase of the Carlyle project will require the installation of piping under the Carlyle roadway to provide for a flushing / water transfer action between the lagoons on either side of the roadway which should help to resolve a water stagnation issue.

Happy Hookers /Military – Liaison, Director Charles Crunkleton

Charles and the Happy Hookers are very appreciative of your response to our request for Toys for the Squibb Cancer Ward and for your contributions to military, delivered to the Potter School on Saturday, November 5. Charles informs that we are still accepting needed items of unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital and needed items for our military, lists available on our BSHCA web site. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. Click here for the 2016 list of ideas. For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities – Director Jerry Coppola

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
The trip is set. We have our requirement of 38 people.
Please arrive at the Recreation Center on Rt 9 at 8:30AM for boarding of the bus. Questions can be directed to Jerry Coppola on 732 237 8855.

- Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
- Police Chief's TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

October 2016

October 31, 2016

General Membership Meeting

Our General Membership Meeting on Friday, October 28, 2016 was sparsely attended by 13 members, plus the board. A bit low since our normal attendance has been 35-40 and about 75-80 at our annual meetings.
Our guest speaker, Lloyd Mullikin, presented his military outreach program speaking in personal terms of his last 12 years of involvement. He continues to seek out more sources of food and personal items that are needed by our military in foreign and hostile lands. BSHCA will support Lloyd’s efforts and we will continue to remind our membership in newsletters. Our BSHCA web site contains all needed items and delivery points. This program addresses needs throughout the year. Lloyd was presented with a check for $300 to purchase phone cards for use by our military during the upcoming holiday season. We urge you to participate, especially during the holiday season. If you wish to donate needed items, please consult the list on our web site and drop them off on November 5 at the H&M Potter School on Veeder Lane between the hours of 9am-12pm. You may also drop off old cell phones. They can be exchanged for phone calling cards.

Political Action, Elections 2016

BSHCA is a civic organization and does not endorse nor do we support a political agenda. Our members are a diverse group and certainly not all of the same mindset as regards their political leanings. Our web site has been prepared by Webmaster, Nancy Wieme, to assist in learning more about the positions of our 15 local school board candidates. They have been invited to address the membership with a personal letter which will appear in our web site, berkeleyshores.org. To date, 3 candidates have responded. Their letters can be read by accessing the web site. See “Elections 2016 School Board Candidates Speak Out.”
A link to the web sites of each of the 3 candidates for the House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of New Jersey under the heading, “3rd Congressional District Candidates,” is also available on the web site - CLICK HERE.

Scholarship Program

Jim Benn, Scholarship Program Chairman, wants all to know that the program for the 2017 school year is underway and we are taking candidates for review by his committee. (Irene Benn, Nick Donatiello, Carol Rusnak). All information needed for application is available on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. CLICK HERE.

Popcorn Park Zoo

Member, Carol Rusnak, would like to remind all that the cold weather is starting and the animals at the Popcorn Park Zoo appreciate your donations of newspapers (black/white print only), blankets, towels, sheets, throw rugs, etc. She will be glad to pick up your items and deliver them to the park. Carol can be reached on 732 606 9047.

Food Drive

Our Annual Food Drive will be held this Saturday, November 5. Director, Gary DiNallo will head the program. The drop off point will be the H&M Potter School located on Veeder Lane between the hours of 9am-12pm. All proceeds from the drive will be delivered to St. Barnabas Parish for preparation of food baskets for those families in need for the Thanksgiving Holiday Season. Questions can be directed to Gary on 732 737 1676. CLICK HERE for a list of needed items.

Happy Hookers

Please consider contributing needed items of unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick Response is slow for this program and donations have been light. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. You can also contribute items on Saturday, November 5 when you deliver your food items to the H&M Potter School, 9am-12pm.
click here for the NEW 2016 list of ideas. For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
The trip is set. We have the 38-people needed to save the trip. In fact, there are an additional 5 people on a waiting list in the event there is a last-minute cancellation. If you have not yet done so, please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 8855.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

October 2016

October 31, 2016

Dear Member,

General Membership Meeting

Political Action, Elections 2016

Scholarship Program

Popcorn Park Zoo

Food Drive

Happy Hookers

Social Activities

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

October 24, 2016

General Member Meeting

We will be holding a General Membership Meeting on Friday, October 28, 2016, 6:30PM @ the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt9.
Our guest speaker will be Lloyd Mullikin. Lloyd will present his outreach program, 12 years old, to our military in foreign lands and how he provides services with emphasis on needed items of a personal nature that are in short supply. BSHCA will also present to Lloyd, a gift check in the amount of $300 for phone cards for calling to families over the holiday season.
Our agenda will consist of remarks by the president and presentations by each board member regarding their areas of responsibility.

Political Action, Elections 2016

This coming 2016 election cycle is certainly one of the more interesting ones when compared to past years, especially the run for president. But remember, we still have local elections that deserve our attention. Our planning for the 2016 election period is complete. First and most importantly, BSHCA is a civic organization and does not endorse nor do we support a political agenda. Our members are a diverse group and certainly not all of the same mindset as regards their political leanings. To assist in learning more about their positions, we have invited the 15 candidates for our local Berkeley Township and Central Regional High School boards, to submit a letter presenting their agendas. They were also asked not to refer to their opponents in any negative manner since we would not entertain a rebuttal process. As they respond, their letters will be made available on our web site under the caption, “Elections 2016 School Board Candidates Speak Out,” prepared by our Webmaster, Nancy Wieme.
We will also provide a link to the web sites of each of the 3 candidates for the House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of New Jersey under the heading, “3rd Congressional District Candidates,” The names of all candidates and a link to the web sites of the Congressional Candidates will be provided on our web site. Click here for the Elections page - and be sure to check back often for updates from the candidates!

Food Drive

Our Annual Food Drive will be held on Saturday, November 5. Director, Gary DiNallo will head the program. The drop off point will be the H&M Potter School located on Veeder Lane between the hours of 9am-12pm. All proceeds from the drive will be delivered to St. Barnabas Parish for preparation of food baskets for those families in need for the Thanksgiving Holiday Season. Questions can be directed to Gary on 732 737 1676.

Happy Hookers

Please consider contributing needed items of unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick Response is slow for this program and donations have been light. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. You can also contribute items on Saturday, November 5 when you deliver your food items to the H&M Potter School, 9am-12pm.
Click here for the 2016 list of ideas. For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
Jerry Coppola has informed me that you have responded favorably with the six additional people needed to maintain the trip to Lancaster, PA for the Christmas Show at the American Musical Theater. The trip will be attended by 36 people. We thank you for your response and we will see you on November 17. If you have not yet paid, please do so as soon as possible. There is still time to join us if you wish. Price is $86.00 per person. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 by October 24. 732 237 8855.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

October 17, 2016

General Member Meeting

We will be holding a General Membership Meeting on Friday, October 28, 2016, 6:30PM @ the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt9. Agenda will follow in a future newsletter.

Our guest speaker will be Lloyd Mullikin. Lloyd will present his outreach program, 12 years old, to our military in foreign lands and how he provides services with emphasis on needed items of a personal nature that are in short supply. BSHCA will also present to Lloyd, a gift check in the amount of $300 for phone cards for calling to families over the holiday season.

Treasury Audit

The audit of our Treasury for the fiscal year 2015-2016 has been completed by member, Rich Pachuki and reviewed with our Treasurer, John Schnitzer. The audit consists of a receipt match to every item for which a check has been written. I am happy to report that no discrepancies exist, all disbursements are accounted for and the audit is on file. Thank you and appreciation too Rich for his time and effort.

Political Action

The Executive Board meeting, held on Friday, October 14, 2016 at the Good Luck Marina conference room, discussed our policy regarding political involvement. The association does not endorse any candidate since it is not a political organization. However, as a part of our civic duty, we will provide our local candidates for council and school board, a byline in our newsletter format as was done in the past. Often school board elections do not receive the same attention as municipal elections, even though our schools often require upwards of 50% of our tax dollars. All local candidates will be contacted shortly, inviting them to participate.
For the congressional candidates, we will provide a link to their individual web sites on our BSHCA web site, which will be set up shortly.

Food Drive

Our Annual Food Drive will be held on Saturday, November 5. Director, Gary DiNallo will take charge of the program. The drop off point will be the H&M Potter School located on Veeder Lane between the hours of 9am-12pm. All proceeds from the drive will be delivered to St. Barnabas Parish for preparation of food baskets for those families in need for the Thanksgiving Holiday Season. Questions can be directed to Gary on 732 737 1676.

Mayor Amato will initiate his 1st Annual Food Drive for Berkeley Twp. this year. The board has voted to support his drive with a check from BSHCA in the amount of $100. President will present a check to the Mayor at the next council meeting, October 17, 2016.

Happy Hookers

Items are needed of unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick have been light. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. - Read more by clicking here. For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
Our last chance to save the Lancaster trip on November 17. Jerry has been able to negotiate with another company to accommodate our smaller head count. We are at 32 and we need 38, just 6 more people to maintain our current ticket price of $86.00. Please don’t allow this trip to be canceled because of a few people short. Give consideration to joining us or do your best to recruit 6 more people. October 24 is our new deadline. Please give consideration to joining us on this trip. Price is $86.00 per person. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 by October 24. 732 237 885.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

October 10, 2016

General Member Meeting
We will be holding a General Membership Meeting on Friday, October 28, 2016, 6:30PM @ the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt9. Agenda will follow in a future newsletter.

Veterans Outreach Program-Happy Hookers

Needed items for our military and for new, unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick have been light.

Children's donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach@ 15 Starboard Ct., Bayville. Click here the 2016 list of ideas for domations to chilren..

Your military donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. - The list of needed military donations can be found by clicking here.

For questions, contact Director-Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
I hope all have had the opportunity to read the special message sent out on Sunday, October 9 regarding the Lancaster, PA trip to the American Music Theater for the Annual Christmas Show. Please give consideration to joining us on this enjoyable trip. Price is $86.00 per person. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

From the Mayor: Important repeat

6:30-7PM Opening Remarks/Short Summary of National Flood Insurance Program changes (NFIP), Mitigation Steps and Premium Savings.
7-9:30PM Elevation Certificate review (EC) in a one on one conference to examine your specific certificate to apply proper mitigation steps that may save you $ on premium costs.
If you wish to attend this important meeting, please register online at http://berkeleytwp.eventbrite.com or call on 866 599 7065. Bring your Elevation Certificate and your current Flood Insurance Policy.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

October 3, 2016

Veterans Outreach Program-Happy Hookers

So far the response for needed items for our military and for new, unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick have been light. Your donations can be delivered to Cathy Peach @ 15 Starboard Court, Bayville or Sarah’s Salon @ The Shop Rite Mall on Rt 9. - click here for the 2016 list of ideas. To participate in our military outreach program, please go to our BSHCA web site. For questions, contact Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Have you visited the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel? I recently made the short trip to the memorial with members Walt Stinner, Dick Andrews and Steve Coffey. The grounds consist of the circular “Wall,” made up of 365 granite panels, one for each day of the year, memorializing every person who died on that day, regardless of year. The Education Center houses a pictorial history of, not only the war, but of the events leading to our involvement. The exterior grounds are beautifully landscaped with multiple granite memorials. Very impressive, informative and solemn. Take Garden State Parkway to exit 116.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. There are 19 spots remaining. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served.
Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

An Invitation from Congressman Tom MacArthur

Congressman Tom MacArthur and Dr. Robert Ivker would like you to join them in Berkeley Township for a health care update, where they will discuss various medical and wellness concerns. The meeting will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2016, 10AM at the Berkeley Township Recreation Center, 630 Atlantic City Blvd (Rt9), Bayville. For RSVP and questions call 732 569 6495.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

September 2016

September 26, 2016

Dear Member,

Membership Drive

Well, members, we finally hit that 90% level, but we are still 10% away from our goal, which amounts to 68 members still to be accounted for. Without your help we will not get there. If you have not yet mailed in your household dues renewal payment of $30 for the 2016-2017 cycle, please take the time to do it as soon as possible. Your membership is important because it says we are paying attention to our environment.

Veterans Outreach Program

Don’t forget our military. Because of them, we are afforded the precious freedoms that we enjoy. To participate in our military outreach program, please go to our BSHCA web site for instructions and the list of needed items. For questions, please call BSHCA Director, Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Happy Hookers – Director Charles Crunkleton

Don’t forget our Happy Hookers donations for the 2016 season. Donations of new, unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick are greatly appreciated. - click here for the 2016 list of ideas.

Happy Hookers Meeting Date Change
The Happy Hookers have found it necessary and more convenient to change the date of their regular meeting from the 1st Monday of the month to the 2nd Monday of each month, starting with the October 10th date. Starting with the date of October 10, the Happy Hookers will be meeting on a regular basis on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM, 15 Starboard Court. For information call Cathy Peach on732 237 0901.

From the Mayor: Important repeat

Berkeley Township will sponsor a Community Outreach Program focused on Flood Insurance with emphasis on reducing your premium costs, to be held at the Municipal Building, 627 Pinewald-Keswick Road, Bayville on October 13, 2016. The meeting will be presented in two parts.
6:30-7PM Opening Remarks/Short Summary of National Flood Insurance Program changes (NFIP), Mitigation Steps and Premium Savings.
7-9:30PM Elevation Certificate review (EC) in a one on one conference to examine your specific certificate to apply proper mitigation steps that may save you money on premium costs.
If you wish to attend this important meeting, please register online at http//berkeleytwp.eventbrite.com or call on 866 599 7065. Bring your Elevation Certificate and your current Flood Insurance Policy.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. There are 17 spots remaining. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

Summer is over. Now What?

While some of our members are getting ready for points south to join the snowbird set, our summer is winding down and finishing up much too quickly. But for those of us who are left behind to get ready for some snow shoveling, there are plenty of other things available in this neck of the woods before that happens. What about local live theaters and college arts programs to southern shore points like Cape May, Smithville and a trip on the ferry to Lewes Delaware? Tours of old historic homes and villages in New Jersey? Lighthouses with beautiful views for those adventurous and energetic enough to climb to the top. Cranberry harvesting festivals. Halloween is coming with October hayrides at various farms and vineyards in Ocean and Monmouth counties along with wine tasting tours of the many vineyards that populate the state. Who has other ideas, suggestions or experiences that can ease the boredom of the winter months? Let us know and we’ll pass em along to our members.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

September 19, 2016

Membership Drive

We are still not there yet members. Without your help we will not get to our goal. We still strive toward that 90% level which will get us over the hill, but not yet to the finish line. If you have not yet mailed in your household dues renewal payment of $30 for the 2016-2017 cycle, please take the time to do it as soon as possible. Please don’t let up. We are dependent on your dues payments to meet our budgeting requirements for the next fiscal year.

Veterans Outreach Program

To participate in our military outreach program, please click here for instructions and the list of needed items. We are trying to develop a program that can make it easier for you to deliver your donations to the pick-up points designated in the web site. For questions, please call BSHCA Director, Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Happy Hookers – Director Charles Crunkleton

For the 2016 season, the Happy Hookers are asking for donations of new, unwrapped toys for delivery to pediatric cancer patients at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. The children enjoy these gifts more than you can imagine! Not sure what to donate? - click here for the 2016 list of ideas. They will be collecting these donations through December 1, 2016. If you care to donate, contact Cathy Peach at: 732-237-0901. If you prefer, monetary donations for this important event can be mailed to "Happy Hookers" c/o Berkeley Shores Homeowners' Civic Association, P.O. Box 134, Bayville, NJ 08721. (Make check out to BSHCA and enter Happy Hookers in the memo).
Please also keep in mind that the Happy Hookers work on handmade items year-round and can ALWAYS use donations of yarn, "hotel sized" shampoo, moisturizer and the like (for gifts created for nursing home residents) or monetary donations.
The Happy Hookers are STILL COLLECTING items for members of the armed forces overseas.
Click here for a list of items that are needed for this worthwhile cause!

Annual Atlantic City “One Sweet Day” Boat Trip
The date has been set for the 2017 trip. Friday, July 14 – Sunday, July 16.

From the Mayor:

Berkeley Township will sponsor a Community Outreach Program focused on Flood Insurance with emphasis on reducing your premium costs, to be held at the Municipal Building, 627 Pinewald-Keswick Road, Bayville on October 13, 2016. The meeting will be presented in two parts.
6:30-7PM Opening Remarks/Short Summary of National Flood Insurance Program changes (NFIP), Mitigation Steps and Premium Savings.
7-9:30PM Elevation Certificate review (EC) in a one on one conference to examine your specific certificate to apply proper mitigation steps that may save you $ on premium costs.
If you wish to attend this important meeting, please register online at http//berkeleytwp.eventbrite.com or call on 866 599 7065. Bring your Elevation Certificate and your current Flood Insurance Policy.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. There are 17 spots remaining. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

September 12, 2016

Membership Drive

We are edging slowly to the 90% level, but without your help we will not get there. If you have not yet mailed in your household dues renewal payment of $30 for the 2016-2017 cycle, please take the time to do it as soon as possible. Please don’t let up. We are dependent on your dues payments to meet our budgeting requirements for the next fiscal year. A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family.

Veterans Outreach Program

To participate in our military outreach program, please go to our BSHCA web site for instructions and the list of needed items. We are trying to develop a program that can make it easier for you to deliver your donations to the pick-up points designated in the web site. For questions, please call BSHCA Director, Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Center Island

Hope all have seen the new yardarm flag additions to our flagpole. One signifies the 5 branches of service and the other is a flag logo for BSHCA that will soon appear on all of our communications. We are planning a dedication ceremony to our veterans in November. A Special mention to Lucille Pavolic and Marion McGrath for their original request to erect the flag pole which was approved by the board under a previous president.

Social Activities

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Sept 9 @ The Captains Inn

The Dinner Dance was a great success, attended by 75 members and their guests. Your response to the event, moved from December to September, was much appreciated by the board. The date has been set for 2017. September 8, The Captains Inn, Friday night, 7-11pm. Put it into your calendars early. A special Thank You to Social Director, Jerry and his wife JoAnn Coppola for their planning and attention to detail that provided a great night of fun. And a special Thank You to our DJ, Dick Italiano and to the staff of the Captains Inn. Please plan to join us next September.

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.

There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. There are 17 spots remaining. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721.
732 237 885.

Annual Atlantic City “One Sweet Day” Boat Trip

The date has been set for the 2017 trip. Friday, July 14 – Sunday, July 16.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

September 5, 2016

Dear Member,

The Bulk Pick that was scheduled for Friday, Sept. 2 and cancelled due to the storm, will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 6.

Membership Drive

Membership Chairman Ken Gerb reports your response rate is now at 82%. We are 71 homes shy of our 2015-2016 membership total for the 2016-2017 renewal drive. Please don’t let up. We are dependent on your dues payments to meet our budgeting requirements for the next fiscal year. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family.

Happy Hookers from Cathy Peach

Happy Hookers is meeting this Tuesday instead of Monday, due to the holiday. We will be meeting at my home at 15 Starboard Court as usual. I hope all of the girls can make it. We are getting very busy now.

If you are new to Berkeley Shores and may be interested in joining us and can knit, crochet or sew or would like to learn, we can teach you. We are always looking for new members.

For any questions please call me at: 732-237-0901

Veterans Outreach Program

We would like to initiate a pick up program on a monthly basis to make it easier for members to donate from the list of items for our military, displayed in the web site (click here for a direct link to the the list of needed items). It would be greatly appreciated If you can spare one day out of your month to pick up donated items from members’ homes for delivery to the appropriate location. If you are able, please call BSHCA Director, Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967.

Road Work on Bayview Avenue

The Ocean County Road Department milling and paving project on Bayview Avenue has been completed. We thank the county for their prompt completion of the project with a minimum of inconvenience to the public.

Any questions or comments may be directed to the Road Dept. on 732 929 2133.

Center Island

Hope all have seen the new yardarm flag additions to our flagpole. One signifies the 5 branches of service and the other is a flag logo for BSHCA that will soon appear on all of our communications.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.

There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. There are 19 spots remaining. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.

To date, 57 members and their guests will attend the event. The price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. This party was planned as a replacement for the BSHCA Annual Holiday Party. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. Just click on reply and state the number of persons in your party. Please send in checks promptly to Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 8855.

Annual Atlantic City “One Sweet Day” Boat Trip

The date has been set for the 2017 trip. Friday, July 14 – Sunday, July 16.

Neighborhood Environment

The Ocean County Prosecutors Office reports vandalism regarding removal of political signs from lawns in Berkeley Township. (Asbury Park Press, Friday, Sept. 9, 2017). This election is a bit different from any we have seen in the past. The two candidates running for the Presidency of the United States offer very different ideas and platforms for the future of our country often invoking passions among the electorate. The freedom to express those ideas, guaranteed in the 1st amendment of our constitution, is what makes America unique, setting it apart from other forms of government. Those freedoms guarantee all citizens the right to freely express them without fear, intimidation or the trespass of their properties. The Prosecutors Office has advised that “stealing campaign signs is a crime – you will be prosecuted.” If you have information call 732 929 2027.

Senior Scams

The scammers are at it again, this time calling grandparents and posing as their grandchildren. They plead for money to bail them out of jail, repair a broken vehicle or pose as an attorney representing them. They create a sense of urgency and instruct the grandparent not to contact the family. Method of preferred payment is through gift cards or bank transfers. Victims are advised to contact the family member before sending money.

- Mayor's HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.

- Police Chief's TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

August 2016

August 29, 2016

Membership Drive

Membership Chairman Ken Gerb reports your response rate now 80%. Are 80 homes shy of our 2015-2016 membership total for the 2016-2017 renewal drive. Your response was a bit better this past week, but we still have a way to go. Please don’t let up. We are dependent on your dues payments to meet our budgeting requirements for the next fiscal year. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family.

Happy Hookers and Veterans

I hope all have had the opportunity to read the special letter sent out on Thursday, August 18, pertaining to the program announcing BSHCA and Happy Hookers commitment to our military. Our web site provides details for donations, including a list of needed items. Currently, we have provided two drop off points. (1) Cathy Peach, 15 Starboard Court, Bayville. (2) Sarahs Salon, 441 Atlantic City Blvd. (Rt9), Bayville. We would also like to initiate a pick up program on a monthly basis to make it easier for members to donate. It would be greatly appreciated If you can spare one day out of your month to pick up donated items from members’ homes for delivery to the appropriate location. If you are able, please call BSHCA Director, Charles Crunkleton on 732 269 5967. Click here for a full list of needed items.

Notice of Road Work from the Ocean County Road Dept.

The Ocean County Road Department milling and paving project is underway on Bayview Ave. between Veeder Lane and Bay Blvd. Your patience is appreciated as property access will be limited during this operation. If necessary, you may want to make alternate parking arrangements as no vehicles will be permitted to stay on the roadside during this time. Any questions or comments may be directed to the Road Dept. on 732 929 2133.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
To date, 55 members and their guests will attend the event. The price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. This party was planned as a replacement for the BSHCA Annual Holiday Party. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. Just click on reply and state the number of persons in your party. Please send in checks promptly to Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 8855.

Neighborhood Environment

Letter received from member:
Hi Fred, I live across from the Amherst Beach parking lot on Drake. I walk my dog in the parking lot across from the beach and noticed at least 6 dead small crabs and dead fish strewn in the lot area. Someone obviously dumped this garbage. My husband noticed yesterday morning a gentleman in a red pick-up truck setting out a few crab traps in the lagoon. He yelled at him and mentioned someone dumping their crab traps. He said he would never do that, but we are watching because it's disgusting and wrong to kill baby crabs. Have you had any other complaints about this in other areas.
Our environment is the responsibility of all.

Stormwater Run Off (American Littoral Society)
Stormwater runoff through street drains into our lagoons continues to be a problem and is made worse by increased development. This problem is being addressed statewide through government grants as part of the 10-point solution to improving the water quality of Barnegat Bay. New filtration devices, that are designed to filter out pollutants before entering the lagoons and ultimately, the bay, are under development under the watchful eye of organizations like the American Littoral Society. If you wish to learn more about these projects and plans to improve upon the water quality of the bay, you are invited to attend a free forum on the subject on Wednesday, October 5, 2016, 9:30am-12:30pm. at Mancini Hall, Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library System, 101 Washington Street, Toms River, NJ.

Light refreshments. This is a free event. Space is limited and registration is first come, first served. RVSP no later than September 30th.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

August 22, 2016

Membership Drive

Membership Chairman Ken Gerb reports your response rate at 78% for the 2016-2017 renewal drive. We have received only 7 renewals over the past week. Please don’t let up. We are dependent on your dues payments to meet our budgeting requirements for the next fiscal year. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family.

Annual Garage Sale

BSHCA has completed another very successful garage sale on 8/13/2016. We had approximately 50 homes participate as “sellers.” We had about 125 car loads of “shoppers” come in to Berkeley Shores for this annual event. I would like to thank all the participant “sellers” as well as all those who came to shop. I would also like to thank the board for their support, especially Bob Nunn for making up all the map handouts. I also want to thank the people who assisted on Saturday at H.M. Potter School, our starting point. Of course my wife Ellen is always there to assist. Also Shannon & Joe who worked the “later shift” at the starting point and picked up all the signage after the event.
Thanks Everyone,
Gary DiNallo, Director - Garage Sale

Center Island

This past weekend Board Members John Schnitzer, Charles Crunkleton and BSHCA members Dick Andrews and Walt Stinner removed the old deteriorated boat and prepared the site with a concrete platform in readiness for the installation of the lighthouse, a replica of Barnegat Light. On Sunday, John and Dick installed the structure with a solar light. An old anchor was loaned to the island by Jerry and JoAnn Coppola. My appreciation to all who worked in the hot sun to assist John in this improvement to our island along with the recent installation of the flag pole. Yardarm flags are on order and they should arrive within two weeks. John will plan for a ceremony, dedicating the flagpole to our military, most likely closer to Veterans Day.

Happy Hookers and Veterans

I hope all have had the opportunity to read the special letter sent out on Thursday, August 18, pertaining to the program announcing BSHCA commitment to our military, coupled with the Happy Hookers. Our web site will provide details for donations, including items lists, under development by Director Charles Crunkleton and Webmaster, Nancy Wieme. As soon as they have completed their plan, we will advise the membership of donation procedures. -- CONTENT NOW AVAILABLE ON THE HAPPY HOOKERS PAGE!

Notice of Road Work from the Ocean County Road Dept.

The Ocean County Road Department will be milling and paving Bayview Ave. between Veeder Lane and Bay Blvd. on or about Monday, August 22. The project will begin at approximately 7AM and will continue through the next two weeks. Please expect delays as property access will be limited during this operation. If necessary, you may want to make alternate parking arrangements as no vehicles will be permitted to stay on the roadside during this time. Be assured that any repairs needed as a result of this project will be taken care of by the area supervisor in a timely manner once the project is completed. We are very sorry for any convenience this may cause and ask for your patience and cooperation during the duration of the project. Any questions or comments may be directed to the Road Dept. on 732 929 2133.

Social Activities

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
To date, 55 members and their guests will attend the event. The price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. This party was planned as a replacement for the BSHCA Annual Holiday Party. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. For questions and to send in your check, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 732 237 8855.

Neighborhood Environment
Some encouraging news concerning the Amherst Beach. Member Donna Szecares has informed us that in the past week, the geese population has greatly diminished on the beach along with a reduction of geese droppings. Let’s hope this is permanent or at least the geese may have found a new home. In the meantime, please do not feed the geese and please remind any offenders that there is a township ordinance punishable by fines, prohibiting the feeding of geese, ducks and waterfowl.
Ord: 9-10.1 Feeding Prohibited. No person or persons shall feed, cause to be fed or provide food for geese, ducks or other waterfowl on publicly or privately owned lands within the Township of Berkeley. (Ord. No. 00-2-OAB § 4)

Cedar Creek Golf Course, Bayville (Golfers)
If you are a Veteran in possession of a VA ID Card or a form DD214 and are a resident of Berkeley Township, you can take advantage of a special rate for veterans as follows:
-The regular resident $18.00 greens fee is reduced to $9.00 during the week and the $20 weekend fee is reduced to $10.
Not subject to a special rate is the cart fee, twilight fee or league play. Normal fees apply.
If you are a golf course member, a VA sticker will be affixed to your member card. Otherwise, you must show veteran ID each time you play.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

August 18, 2016

Subject: A Letter from the Happy Hookers, Cathy Peach and BSHCA President Fred Bekiarian

Dear Members,

I would like to take a moment to update you on the good works of BSHCA’s Happy Hookers. The Hookers are keeping busy making blankets, scarves, hats and slippers to be donated to residents of Children’s Hospitals, Bayville Manor, Tallwoods, Crystal Lake, Kensington Manor and other nursing homes as well as Homes for Veterans. We also box much needed personal items from your generous donations.

In addition to our local contributions, we are working with a very special gentleman, Mr. Lloyd Mullikin. Mr. Mullikin has established himself as the contact for much needed items of clothing, food, toiletries and other personal items to be shipped to our military personal around the globe. The Hookers have joined him in this project, preparing food boxes, personal items and hats for warmth, knitted by our group of sewers and knitters. Their words of appreciation and thanks are heartwarming, not only for the items, but for the caring that comes from the homeland.

I wish to thank the many neighbors and friends for the books, magazines, personal items and other donations. Your generosity does not go unrecognized. A special thanks to Sarah’s Shop for allowing us to use her store as a drop off point for your donations. If you wish to join us, we are more than happy to welcome you into our group. Please get in touch with me on 732 237 0901.

Sincerely,

Cathy Peach and the Happy Hookers

Dear Members,

The efforts and dedication of the Happy Hookers to the less fortunate in Nursing Homes and our military in foreign lands is to be applauded and appreciated. This group of sewers and knitters puts a charitable face on BSHCA and exemplifies, in a major way, our civic responsibility along with our other philanthrophical endeavors.

Director, Charles Crunkleton, was assigned as liaison to the Happy Hookers to provide continuity and updating of the groups’ activities to the executive board. Through his working with the “Hookers,” he became familiar with Mr. Mullikin, inviting him to our executive board meeting held on July 26, 2016. Mr. Mullikin started this program 12 years ago and is basically a one-man operation with a cadre of volunteers from many areas who wish to be involved. He established contacts with key military personal in remote areas of occupation and through those contacts, determines the items of need for our fighting forces. I.e.: Soldiers are very appreciative of the woolen hats, knitted by the “Hookers,” which keep them warm in the colder climates. Cathy Peach and her Happy Hookers are part of that cadre of volunteers, sewing, knitting and boxing supplies making it possible for him to accomplish his mission. The board listened with interest and has voted to lengthen the arm of Mr. Mullikin's “Army of Volunteers.” There was a strong desire by the board to support our military with some plan of action and Mr. Mullikins’ operation seemed to be a good fit. He has an established and well respected operation, the “Hookers” are already on board to handle the logistics and Director Crunkleton will oversee needs and report progress to the board and ultimately to the membership. At the July 26th meeting, the board has taken its first action with a donation of $300.00 for the purchase of much needed phone cards to keep military in touch with their families, especially during the holiday season. That award will be presented personally to Mr. Mullikin at a meeting planned for the October time frame.

The board has done its part in support of our military and now it is time to appeal to you. Nancy Wieme, our webmaster, will work with Mr. Crunkleton to prepare our web site with a complete list of all items of need from personal to toiletries to books/magazines to food items to wool for hats and whatever other items are needed. There will be a clear set of instructions for you to follow as regards drop off points and contacts.

Please be patient as we go about completing the building steps necessary to complete the project.

Sincerely,

Fred Bekiarian, Pres., BSHCA

Click here for the Happy Hookers' webpage

Please (click here) to visit the Happy Hookers' donation webpage for information about donations!

August 15, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Membership Drive
Just one month into our 2016-2017 Renewal Drive, Membership Chairman Ken Gerb reports your response rate at 75%. While this is good news and we are appreciative of your prompt response, there has been a noticeable slowdown in returns over the past week. Please don’t let up. We are dependent on your dues payments to meet our budgeting requirements for the next fiscal year. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family

BSHCA Golf Tournament 2017
Our 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament was a resounding success, meeting and surpassing all goals of the committee. Key to that effort was the response of our supporters and sponsors who provided food, signs and prizes while at the same time resulting in a profit of $2,700 for our association. The committee is ready to go for next year, but we need a member who can take charge of solicitation. It will require contact with past sponsors and supporters plus adding to the list with new participants. In other words, an affable salesperson who is willing to “beat the bushes” for new business. You can even form your own committee of “Bush Beaters” if you wish. You will start with an impressive list from 2016 that will merely require contact for renewal. Please contact Ken Gerb and join the committee for this worthwhile event.

Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale was a success thanks to Director, Gary DiNallo. Great job Gary. We hope all have made a few bucks while getting rid of unwanted items that added to household clutter. Approximately 45 residents participated. If you have any suggestions that can improve the day, please contact us on our web site or hit reply on this newsletter and type in your recommendation. We thank the Mayor for providing the special pick up on Monday, following the event.

Center Island
John Schnitzer has scheduled Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Aug. 18,19, 20 to prepare for the installation of the lighthouse on the center island. Much work is necessary before the lighthouse can be placed in position. The old boat must be removed and broken up, dirt carted away and a concrete platform must be installed. John will need the assistance of members on August 18, 19, 20. Can you give one day of your time? Volunteers can reach him on 732 237 9922. Please help.

Water Safety

Over last weekend, several instances of watercraft violations were observed concerning jet skis and powerboats. One was observed navigating the main lagoon, west of the Bayview Bridge, at speed and on plane. Another was observed in the lagoon between Yardarm and Archer.
Power boats and jet skis powering to plane at the mouth of the main inlet is not acceptable. Please observe the “No Wake” markers beyond the main Amherst Inlet. We have fought for annual sediment removal from our main lagoon and the township budgets for such projects. It is our responsibility to limit the filling in of the channel through proper boat handling and strict observance of the rules. We want all to enjoy their weekends and summer days in Berkeley Shores, but we must also do all we can to protect our fragile environment. Boating safety must be on the top of our list and there are rules in place to protect against wakes and irresponsible handling of watercraft. Residents can report such instances to the Police Dept., but they must be prepared to file a complaint. The police can only initiate a complaint when they are physically in place to witness the incident. The vast majority of our boat owning residents are observant of the rules regarding wakes and are appreciative of the reasons for those rules. Unfortunately, there appears to be a small minority who think the rules do not apply to them. We have reports of residents who are met with gestures and profanity when they object to irresponsible boat handling. It is up to all of us to protect our environment.

Hurricane Season

The 2016 hurricane season will be rearing its’ ugly head this month and will linger for a few more. Are you prepared or do you at least have some basic items that can get you through such an event?
Consider the following:
-NOAA (National Oceanic Atmospheric Association) Radio with tonal alert and extra batteries
-One gallon of water per person for three days
-Waterproof flashlight with extra batteries
-Three-day supply of non-perishable foods
-Hand crank radio
-Matches
-First Aid Kit
-Blankets
-Full tank of gasoline for cars
-Emergency power generators are operational
-Boats and watercraft properly stored, moored, anchored, etc.

Social Activities
Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17.
There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. Please send in your check to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721. 732 237 885.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
To date, 50 members and their guests will attend the event. The price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. This party was planned as a replacement for the BSHCA Annual Holiday Party. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. Just click on reply and state the number of persons in your party. For questions and to send in your check, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 732 237 8855.

Happy Hookers and Veterans
This coming week I will be sending out a special newsletter featuring the Happy Hookers and our extended program in support of our military serving in foreign lands.

Neighborhood Environment

We received an email from a member regarding the Amherst Beach. Parents were observed giving their children food to feed the geese. We are working with the township and the Waterways Commission to deter the geese from visiting the beach for sanitary reasons. The Parks Dept. does rake the beach on a weekly basis with special equipment, but we must do our part in supporting their efforts.

The township ordinance regarding waterfowl reads, in part, as follows:
9-10 Geese, Ducks and other Waterfowl
9-10.1 Feeding Prohibited. No person or persons shall feed, cause to be fed or provide food for geese, ducks or other waterfowl on publicly or privately owned lands within the Township of Berkeley. (Ord. No. 00-2-OAB § 4)
9-10.4 Enforcement. The Animal Control Officer, Code Enforcement Officer, and/or the Ocean County Board of Health are hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this section. (Ord. No. 00-2-OAB § 4)
9-10.5 Violations and Penalties. Any person who violates any one (1) or more subsections of this section shall be subject to a fine of not more than two hundred fifty ($250.00) dollars for each separate offense and may be ordered to perform community service not to exceed ten (10) days in duration. (Ord. No. 00-2-OAB § 4)

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

August 8, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Membership Drive
Just three weeks into our 2016-2017 Renewal Drive, Membership Chairman Ken Gerb reports your response rate at 70%. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. Our dues policy is as follows: (1)-July 1 thru Dec. 31 for dues remittance. (2)-Jan 1 thru March 31, reminder notices will be sent out. (3)-After April 1, those members not remitting their dues payment will be removed from the BSHCA active membership list.
A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family

Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. The deadline was August 1. Late applications might not make the list. After that we cannot guarantee that your items will be included in the handout list. More than 40 have signed up to date. The announcement flyer and registration forms -- CLICK HERE
Mayor Amato has arranged for a bulk pickup in Berkeley Shores on Monday, August 15, following the Garage Sale.
Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the event. For questions, contact Gary on 732 269 8755.

Center Island
After the flag pole installation our next chore on the island will be the installation of a lighthouse with solar light. Much preparation is necessary before the lighthouse can be placed in position. The old boat must be removed, dirt carted away and a concrete platform must be installed. John will need the assistance of members on August 18, 19, 20. Volunteers can reach him on 732 237 9922.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
Price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. Just click on reply and state the number of persons in your party. For questions and to send in your check, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 732 237 8855.

PTR Property Tax Reimbursement (Senior Freeze)

Several conditions must be met in order to qualify for the PTR program. If you are over 65, a state resident for 10 years and lived at your current address for 3 consecutive years, you may be eligible to participate if you meet certain income requirements. For information on the program and for assistance in filling out the application, visit the Senior Assistance Center located on the 1st floor of the municipal building (next to the clerks’ office) 627 Pinewald-Keswick Road, Bayville. 732 244 7400

Neighborhood Environment

Once again the geese are making themselves known on the Amherst Beach. It seems that the decoy dogs we installed a few weeks ago are not effective. We will continue to work with local depts. to rectify the situation.

Sediment removal (Main Lagoon)
Considerable material was removed from the Amherst Inlet this year. However, there appears to be a high spot several hundred feet in from the mouth of the main lagoon. While it seems not to deter powerboats, sailboats with deeper keels may hit bottom in spots. It is too late to rPTR Property Tax Reimbursement (Senior Freeze)
Several conditions must be met in order to qualify for the PTR program. If you are over 65, a state resident for 10 years and lived at your current address for 3 consecutive years, you may be eligible to participate if you meet certain income requirements. For information on the program and for assistance in filling out the application, visit the Senior Assistance Center located on the 1st floor of the municipal building (next to the clerks’ office) 627 Pinewald-Keswick Road, Bayville. 732 244 7400

Neighborhood Environment
Once again the geese are making themselves known on the Amherst Beach. It seems that the decoy dogs we installed a few weeks ago are not effective. We will continue to work with local depts. to rectify the situation.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

August 1, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Membership Drive
Just over two weeks into our Renewal Drive, Membership Chairman, Ken Gerb reports your response rate at 59%. We are pleased with such a quick response, especially important since the board is finalizing our annual budget. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. Our dues policy is as follows: (1)-July 1 thru Dec. 31 for dues remittance. (2)-Jan 1 thru March 31, reminder notices will be sent out. (3)-After April 1, those members not remitting their dues payment will be removed from the BSHCA active membership list.
A reminder: Use that brochure from the mailing to recruit just one new household into the BSHCA family

Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. Please send in your applications to give the committee time to prepare your items list. The deadline was August 1, but hurry please. After that we cannot guarantee that your items will be included in the handout list. More than 30 have signed up to date. The announcement flyer and registration forms are available on our BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org. Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the event. For questions, contact Gary on 732 269 8755.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament
The Golf Tournament Committee has been busy sending out letters of appreciation to all of our local sponsors. Each letter contains a greeting and a picture of their individual sign that was placed at various locations on the golf course. The committee hopes that all will participate in the future to make the tournament an even greater success. Photos are available... CLICK HERE!

Make sure you enter July 20, 2017 into your calendars for our 2nd Annual Golf Tournament.

Center Island
We hope all have seen the new flagpole, funded by BSHCA, installed on our Center Island. A big Thank You to our Treasurer, John Schnitzer, who arranged for the installation. The flagpole is equipped with a solar light and a yardarm that will display a flag commemorating all branches of our military and a BSHCA banner. A dedication service is planned for a future date.
Our next chore on the island will be the installation of a lighthouse with solar light. Much preparation is necessary before the lighthouse can be placed in position. The old boat must be removed, dirt carted away and a concrete platform must be installed. John will need the assistance of members on August 18, 19, 20. Volunteers can reach him on 732 237 9922.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
Price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. For questions and to send in your check, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 732 237 8855.

From the Mayors’ Desk

At our Annual Meeting of June 25, Mayor Amato spoke briefly on matters concerning our waterfront, leaving a letter to “Friends and Neighbors” with greater detail. The last installment is presented in this newsletter. We thank the Mayor, Council and Waterways Advisory Commission for their attention to the needs of the waterfront in all of Berkeley Township.

Part 3
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I want to advise you of other civic projects that took place in and around Berkeley Shores:

The township has been working with the American Littoral Society (ALS) on restoring a 1 acre oyster reef located about 300 yards off of Good Luck Point in Barnegat Bay. On April 16th, 110 cubic yards of whelk shells were installed to supply additional substrate for oyster recruitment.
Last summer the Township Council and I approved a resolution opposing the State Department of Environmental Protection's $3.00 entry fee to use the public access walkway on Island Beach State Park from Tice's Shoal mooring area to the Atlantic Ocean. No fee had ever previously been in that area in the history of the park. Unfortunately, we lost that one.
I am also pleased to report that since distributing automated recycling cans to homes in Berkeley Shores, we have seen an increase in recycling tonnage. This program, instituted by my administration in 2012 as part of our overall plan to increase household recycling, can generate revenue and at the same time reduce land fill costs. Keep up the good work!

As you can see we have been very busy. As always, I welcome any suggestions and feedback. You can call my office at 732-244-7400 Ext: 203, or feel free to send an e-mail to: mayor@twp.berkeley.nj.us.
I thank you in advance and wish you a wonderful and safe summer season. Please observe all "Rules of the Road" when operating boats on the open bay and in the lagoon areas.

Mayor Carmen Amato

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

July 2016

July 25, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Membership Drive
Our Membership Renewal Drive has been in effect for less than two weeks and our Chairman, Ken Gerb, reports that 42 % of the membership has responded. We are pleased with such a quick response so far. For those who have not yet remitted their dues payment, please make it a point to send it in as soon as possible. Our dues policy is as follows: (1)-July 1 thru Dec. 31 for dues remittance. (2)-Jan 1 thru March 31, reminder notices will be sent out. (3)-After April 1, those members not remitting their dues payment will be removed from the BSHCA active membership list. Your mailing contains a brochure and letter from the president to be used to recruit at least one new member household to BSHCA which can double our enrollment of active members.

Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. If you wish to participate, please send in your applications to give the committee time to prepare your items list. All details, announcement flyer and registration forms now available on our BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org. Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the event. For questions, contact Gary on 732 269 8755.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament
I hope all have had a chance to read Ken Gerbs’ report on our 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, with pictures. The hard work of Ken and his committee of Dick Andrews, Jim Benn and John Schnitzer is much appreciated. It was a very successful tournament, not only for its enjoyment by the golfers, but for the substantial profit of $2,700, to be added to our treasury for future budget needs, community projects and the philanthropic side of BSHCA. We thank all who supported the event from the golfers and public officials who joined us at the luncheon and especially our sponsors from the business community of Berkeley, recognizing us as a good and worthwhile organization. My heartfelt thank you and my appreciation to all.

Visit the Golf page for "Thanks", photos and MORE!

Make sure you enter July 20, 2017 into your calendars for the 2nd Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
Price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. For questions or to hold a spot, email Jerry gjcoppola@yahoo.com and state the number of persons in your party to enable a head count to the Captains Inn. Send your check to Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 732 237 8855.

Berkeley PBA Golf Tournament, Friday, August 5, 2016, Cedar Creek Golf Course
I am sorry to report that our plan to purchase a foursome for the PBA Golf Tournament did not materialize. We were informed that the tournament was fully booked and spots were no longer available. BSHCA will place a sponsor sign on one of the tee boxes in support of our local police. The drawing for July 25 is cancelled.

From the Mayors’ Desk

At our Annual Meeting of June 25, Mayor Amato spoke briefly on matters concerning our waterfront, leaving a letter to “Friends and Neighbors” with greater detail. The letter will be presented in three parts in this and succeeding newsletters.

Part 2
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The Township's purchase of the Mastapeter property, with dedicated open space funds, has proven to be a valuable and necessary asset. The property is located contiguous to the Amherst Beach, and directly on the main Amherst Inlet Lagoon. The acquisition of this land now gives the township control of both sides of the Amherst Inlet for future dredging purposes, assuring ingress and egress for several hundred homes in the Berkeley Shores section of the Township.
In 2014, the township widened and installed bulk heading along the entire property that should have eliminated or at least, slowed down the silting. We are pleased with the results as it provides for the passing of boats simultaneously, as they navigate the inlet.

The township has completed or is working on other maritime projects, such as:
- The Seabright Avenue Shore Stabilization project.
- The Catalina & Sandlewood Avenue bulkheading in Glenn Cove.
- The repair and reconstruction work for the end of Bowsprit Drive.
- Plans are in progress for restoration and stabilization of the Allen Road Beach.
- Plans are in progress for sand replenishment and stabilization of the Butler Blvd Beach
- The reconstruction of the water monitoring site at the Allen Road Beach.
- Water filtration device installation at Moorage Avenue.
- In early June the Ocean County Road Department cleaned all catch basins along Veeder Lane and Bayview Ave.
- Weekly testing of the water at Amherst Beach by the Ocean County Board of Health.
- The purchase of a new beach sifter by the Township for use on Amherst and other beaches on this side of the bay. This special piece of equipment is designed to cleanse the beach of geese droppings and other feces too small for standard beach cleaning sweepers.
- Design and permitting are being done for the dredging of Maple Creek, Butler Lagoon and Mayor Carmen Amato

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

July 18, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Membership Drive
Our mailing to members for the 2016-2017 Membership Dues Renewal cycle was completed last week. Please make it a point to remit your dues payment as soon as possible. Our dues policy is as follows: (1)-July 1 thru Dec. 31 for dues remittance. (2)-Jan 1 thru March 31, reminder notices will be sent out. (3)-After April 1, those members not remitting their dues payment will be removed from the BSHCA active membership list. Your mailing contains a brochure and letter from the president to be used to recruit at least one new member household to BSHCA which can double our enrollment of active members.

Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. If you wish to participate, please send in your applications to give the committee time to prepare your items list. All details, announcement flyer and registration forms now available on our BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org. Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the event. For questions, contact Gary on 732 269 8755.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament
Our 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament to be held on Thursday, July 21, 2016 at the Cedar Creek Golf Course, Bayville, is ready to go thanks to a great job by Chairman and 1st VP Ken Gerb and his committee of Dick Andrews, Jim Benn and John Schnitzer. The final count of 26 foursomes (104 golfers) make up the tournament supported by more than 60 local sponsors from among the business community of Berkeley Township. BSHCA thanks the committee, all participants and supporters. Following the tournament, all players will come together at the VFW on Veterans Parkway for a buffet dinner, winners circle and door prizes.

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17. If you intend to join the group, please click on reply and state number in your party. There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. Price is $86.00 per person, first come, first served. For questions, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola on 732 237 8855. Please send in checks to Jerry Coppola, 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
Price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. All information is posted on our web site, berkeleyshores.org. Just click on reply and state the number of persons in your party to enable a head count to the Captains Inn. For questions and to send in your check, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola 50 Spinnaker Court, Bayville, NJ 08721 732 237 8855

Berkeley PBA Golf Tournament, Friday, August 5, 2016, Cedar Creek Golf Course
In support of our local Berkeley Township Police Dept., BSHCA has purchased a foursome and a sign to be placed on a “T” Box. If you wish your name to be entered for the drawing of the four members who wish to play, please respond by pressing reply. A drawing of the four players will be held on Monday, July 25.

From the Mayors’ Desk

Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I want to take this time to update you on the many issues my Administration, Township Council and our Waterway's Advisory Commission have been working on that directly impact all waterfront areas of our township. Our waterfront properties contribute significantly to the ratable base of Berkeley Township. As you know, Super Storm Sandy has wreaked havoc on most of our maritime areas and the township will feel the financial impact for a few more years. Unfortunately, the process of rebuilding for those homeowners suffering significant damage is a slow and frustrating one partially due to the regulatory and granting requirements. Since Sandy struck, we have held many informational sessions and hosted two mobile cabinet meetings to try to help expedite the rebuilding process. The Township was one of the first municipalities in the State to waive all construction fees for well over a year, in an attempt to ease the undue financial burden faced by these homeowners.
To add insult to injury, shortly after Sandy, the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), released their preliminary Advisory Base Flood Elevations (ABFE's). If not vigorously challenged, they would have had a devastating effect on flood insurance rates. Strong opposition by the three entities of your local government included hosting a STOP FEMA NOW meeting and providing documentation to FEMA showing that their methodology was deeply flawed. Our work resulted in elimination of almost all Velocity or commonly referred to V-Zones and lowering the base elevations from 1-2 feet in Berkeley Shores, Glen Cove and most other areas of the township. Our Engineering Staff continues to work on the appeal to eliminate the remaining V-Zones. In addition to opposing the ABFE's, we learned about the devastating impact of the Biggert-Waters Act of 2012. If this law was allowed to be implemented unchecked, it would have totally eliminated the Federal Government's subsidies to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) resulting in an average annual increase of 25% to your flood insurance rates over the next four years. While most of our maritime residents were still struggling to rebuild because of Sandy, having to pay this level of flood insurance increase would have been devastating. Working in a bi-partisan way with Senator Menendez, then Congressman Runyan, area Senators, Assembly members and Mayors collectively, we were able to spearhead the approval of the Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 through Congress. This legislation would delay and cap future flood increases while the federal government conducts a feasibility study on the solvency of the NFIP. This was an important victory for all of our residents who require flood insurance.
As you may or may not know, Berkeley Township participates in the NFIP Community Rating System (CRS), which is a voluntary program for participating communities. The primary goal of the CRS is to reduce flood damages to insurable property, strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the NFIP and encourage a comprehensive approach to floodplain management. The CRS has been developed to provide incentives in the form of premium discounts for communities that adopt extra measures to go beyond the minimum floodplain management requirements designed to protect properties from flooding. I'm pleased to report, due to the diligence of my administration, Engineering Department and Flood Mitigation Officer, our Community Rating class has changed. We are now a Class 6 community, an accomplishment that will save certain homeowners up to 20% on future flood insurance policies. When it's time to renew your flood insurance policy, please let your insurance agent know of this change.

Mayor Carmen Amato

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

July 13, 2016

Dear Member,
These weekly messages are issued from the executive board to encourage all to stay in touch. Please let us know of issues, news, or activities that you believe would be of interest to others in our efforts to help better serve our community. Contact us on info@berkeleyshores.org. Changed your email address? Advise membership chairman on members@berkeleyshores.org.

BSHCA Supports Our Local Police

Within the past week we have witnessed very disturbing events regarding law enforcement across the country and especially in our large cities. While Berkeley Township might not be placed in those categories, towns similar to Berkeley have their own unique set of circumstances that require care, professionalism and great judgement. As president of BSHCA, I want our Police Dept. to know that BSHCA supports and appreciates their dedication and devotion to duty. Policing is not easy. I am sure we all know police officers on a personal basis and many have police officers in their own families. These current events prove how challenging and dangerous police work can be. As your president of BSHCA and in my position on the Township Waterways Commission, I have had the opportunity and privilege to work with certain members of our Police Department, the office of Emergency Management, and I am impressed with their professionalism, courtesy and willingness to assist when called upon. So from BSHCA, my personal Thank You to Chief Karin DiMichele, her staff and to all of the police officers in service to Berkeley Township.

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Membership Drive
All materials have been prepared for the renewal cycle, 2016-2017. Volunteers are in process of stuffing the envelopes and all will be in the mail by the end of the week. Please respond promptly with your $30 dues payment and we ask that you try to recruit at least one new member family to BSHCA.

Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. All details, announcement flyer and registration forms now available on our BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org. Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the even and for questions, contact Gary on 732 269 8755.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament
Our 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament to be held at Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016, looks to be a resounding success. Chairman 1st VP Ken Gerb and his committee have done an outstanding job. 25 foursomes and 60 plus sponsors have signed up. Spots are closed. The committee has met its goal of 25 foursomes. See you all there and looking forward to a great day followed by luncheon and prizes.

Social Activities
Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17. If you intend to join the group contact Jerry Coppola. There are only 50 ticket reservations and due to the popularity of this show, we cannot purchase additional tickets. First come, first served. For questions, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola on 732 237 8855.

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday Night, Sept 9, Captains Inn, 7-11PM.
Price is $59 per person and includes open bar of wine and beer. All information is posted on our web site If you plan on attending, contact Social Director Jerry Coppola at 732 237 8855 and let him know the number of persons in your party to enable a head count to the Captains Inn.

BSHCA Annual Boat Trip
The annual boat trip to Atlantic City was enjoyed by all. A bit of rain on Saturday evening, but not before all had an enjoyable dinner at the “Table of the Gods.”

Geese Invasion at Amherst Beach
The geese have returned to the beach this year. The Parks Dept. has the special equipment, purchased last year, to handle the situation. Unfortunately, they cannot perform a daily sweep of the beach. At this time, they rake the beach on a weekly schedule. We have purchased 3 decoy dogs and members have placed them on the beach as a deterrent, Unfortunately, one was stolen after the first day. We will continue to monitor the beach with Parks and the Waterways Commission to find an effective solution. Amherst Beach has been attracting a greater number of bathers and beachgoers and we want them to have an enjoyable day.

Berkeley PBA Golf Tournament, Friday, August 5, 2016, Cedar Creek Golf Course
In support of our local Berkeley Township Police Dept., BSHCA has purchased a foursome and a sign to be placed on a “T” Box. If you wish your name to be entered for the drawing of the four members who wish to play, please press respond by pressing reply. A drawing of the four players will be held on Monday, July 25.

From the Mayors’ Desk

Child Passenger Safety Seat Inspections
I'm pleased to announce our continuing collaboration with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department in offering Child Passenger Safety Seat Inspections in Berkeley Township. The next scheduled inspection is Wednesday, July 13th from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Bayville Volunteer Fire Co., located on Route 9 in Bayville. These inspections are free of charge. Ask yourself the following questions: Is my child’s/grandchild’s safety seat properly installed in my vehicle? Is the safety seat I am using the right seat for my child/grandchild? Is my child/grandchild securely seated in his/her safety seat? Is my child/grandchild ready for a booster seat? Is my child/grandchild ready to safely travel in a vehicle without a booster seat? Can my child/grandchild be placed in the forward facing position before he/she is two years old? Is there a “BEST” car seat for my child/grandchild? If you’re not sure of any of these questions, stop down and one of our Certified CPS Technicians will be there to assist.

The Sounds of Summer Concert series continues
The 2016 Sounds of Summer Concert Series continues on July 13th at 6pm at Veterans Park. The entertainment for the evening will feature Gerard Esposito followed by The Duprees. Bring a chair. Refreshments are always provided by our area non-profit groups and organizations that use these concerts as fundraisers for their group. We hope to see you at the show!!

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

June 2016

June 27, 2016

Annual Member Meeting, Saturday, June 25, 2016

Thank you to all members attending our annual meeting on Saturday. As your president, I was very pleased appreciative of our board members, their reports and the manner in which they took charge of their areas of responsibility. Reports were given by all officers and directors.

Treasurer John Schnitzer – John reported on the balance in our treasury of approximately $15,000 which includes $6000 from our golf tournament revenue. The golf tournament does not draw from our treasury. It has been priced to be self-sustaining. John and his committee will meet in July to develop the preliminary budget for the 2016-2017 fiscal year, to be presented at a July board meeting.
His other major responsibility is the maintenance of our Center Island. John reported on the latest project for the island; replacement of the deteriorated boat with a replica of Barnegat Lighthouse, including a solar light and the erection of a flagpole with plaque to commemorate our veterans. He requested assistance to remove the boat and the substantial quantity of dirt used for planting. If you wish to help, please contact him on 732 237 9922. We are also disheartened at the theft of a decorative wooden star made by John, among the many other decorative items he builds for special occasions and holidays.

1st VP Ken Gerb – Our current membership roster approaches 700 members. Out 2016-2017 renewal cycle will commence on July 1. New board policy regarding dues payment as follows: Dues should be mailed in between July 1 and December 31. If not received by Dec 31, a prompting message will be emailed to delinquent members. If dues are not received by March 31, member will be dropped from active roster and must rejoin as a new member.
The Atlantic City Boat Trip weekend, July 8-10 is set and 6 boats from BSHCA will be participating.
The 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Thursday, July 21 has signed up 25 foursomes and 57 local sponsors. Congratulations to the committee for an excellent job. We are looking forward to a fun day for all golfers which ends with dinner and prizes. Ken expect that we will show a profit for BSHCA.

2nd VP Bob Nunn – Bob Presented scholarship awards of $750 to two of our three winners. Chase Teichmann and Kayleigh Wilson. The third winner, James Rand was presented with his award earlier. Thank you to the Scholarship Committee for a job well done.
Code enforcement was next with a report on citations given out to offending property owners by the Township Code Enforcement Dept. Bob maintains a continuous dialogue with Ken Anderson, Code Enforcement officer and will report your complaints promptly. Unfortunately, enforcement is a slow and legal process that in many cases, favors the property owner.
Our real estate market remains active with a substantial supply of waterfront homes on the market. Prices remain somewhat stable, but hopefully they will improve as conditions improve. Bob did report that many homes are assessed at above market value and suggested that the property tax appeal process be considered. The web site is updated every two weeks and you are encouraged to consult it for the latest sale prices of homes in Berkeley Shores.

Director Jerry Coppola – Jerry reported on the success of our Memorial Day Celebration on the Amherst Beach, immediately following our Boat Blessing and Veterans Commemoration Ceremonies. We drew 250-300 from our membership and from residents of the township since this event is open to the public.
In lieu of our Annual Holiday Party, the board decided on a different venue. For this year we are holding an “End of Summer Party Dinner-Dance” with DJ on Friday night, September 9, at the Captains Inn, Forked River. Ticket price will be under $50. Please contact Jerry as soon as you are sure of your attendance so a head count can be given. 732 237 8855.
The trip to the American Music Theater for the Annual Christmas Show is scheduled for Thursday, November 17. Please contact Jerry for your attendance. 50 tickets have been reserved for eating purposes. This is a very popular show and it is doubtful if additional seats can be ordered.
Director Phil Antoine – Phil has been given the responsibility of developing our operational manual for this and future boards. Much detail takes place for each of our events and to prevent “reinventing the wheel” and to give others the benefit of planning and detailing an event, the manual will lay the groundwork, eliminating much redundant gathering of information. Over the years we have been adding to our list of events and duties. It just makes good sense to gather the details in one manual for the advantage to all. Phil has started with the Memorial Day Celebration and will continue from there.

Gary DiNallo - Gary takes responsibility of our Annual Garage Sale on August 13 and the Annual Food Drive on November 5. He presented the application form to members, referring them to our web site, berkeleyshores.org. You may print out the application and instructions. Send it in to BSHCA, Garage Sale, PO Box 134, Bayville, NJ 08721 with your $15 check and we will do the rest. Don’t forget, the township requires a copy of your drivers’ license.

Charles Crunkleton – Charles takes responsibility for our neighborhood cleanups and environmental issues. He is also the board liaison to the Happy Hookers. The appearance of our neighborhood is important to how we feel about our place of residence. It has become very difficult to recruit members to help with cleanups. When Charles calls for assistance to clean up our roadsides, please respond. Otherwise he acts as a committee of one and that should not happen.
His other responsibility is attention to our Happy Hookers. Cathy Peach and her group of knitters and sewers have now shifted much of their efforts to providing needed items to our active military, operating in environments that are challenging from a hostile enemy to poor weather conditions. Items that provide warmth are much appreciated and further, it gives our military a feeling of support from the homeland. Charles will be working closely with the Hookers and we will be reporting more frequently to you for needed items that can be donated and with letters of appreciation. We budget for the group on an annual basis, providing funds for materials.

This letter to you is quite long, so I will hold my personal remarks on the meeting until next week. Our guest speakers, Mayor Carmen Amato, 1st Ward Councilman James Byrnes and Police Chief Karin DiMichele were warmly greeted by our members and we thank them for once again participating in our annual meeting. A nice surprise visit by former BSHCA presidents, Mike and Barbara Tichmann and we wish them a safe trip back to Key Largo, Fla. Mike gave us a brief report on their first Commemoration to Veterans event in Key Largo. Nice to see you again Teichmanns.

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Annual Garage Sale

Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. All details, announcement flyer and registration forms now available on our BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org. Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the event.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament

Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016 (See web site berkeleyshore.org)

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17

Endless Summer Dinner Dance on Friday night, Sept 9, Captains Inn. Just click on reply and answer with number of people in your party.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

June 22, 2016

Dear Member,
These weekly messages are issued from the executive board to encourage all to stay in touch. Please let us know of issues, news, or activities that you believe would be of interest to others in our efforts to help better serve our community. Contact us on info@berkeleyshores.org. Changed your email address? Advise membership chairman on members@berkeleyshores.org.

Annual Meeting Agenda

-Continental Breakfast

-Salute to Flag

-Opening Remarks - President

-Board Member Reports

-Presentation of Guest Speakers – Mayor Carmen Amato, Chief Karin DiMichele and 1st Ward Councilman James Byrnes

-Presentation of BSHCA Scholarships – Bob Nunn, Scholarship Liaison

-Presentation of Good Citizenship Award

-Presentation of Good Citizenship Award to Eagle Scout Gordon Petry

-Donation Award to Central Regional High School JROTC – President

-Future of BSHCA – President

Meeting is open to member questions, remarks, inputs and suggestions. So that all have a chance to speak, we ask that your comments be held to 5 minutes. The board is interested in your positive thoughts that will assist us in improvements that will better serve our association.

To all, a Safe and Enjoyable Summer on the Water and in your Travels,

The Executive Board of BSHCA

2016 Events Schedule
Annual Garage Sale
Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. All details, announcement flyer and registration forms are now available on our BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org. Director Gary DiNallo is the chairman of the event.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City
2016 "One Sweet Day" Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016, Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ (See webpage berkeleyshores.org/2016_onesweetday.html )

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament
Golfer registration closes June 30,2016
Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016 (See webpage berkeleyshores.org/golf.html )

Social Activities
Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17
Just click on reply and answer with number of people in your party. Thank you.

-Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
-Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

June 13, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Annual Meeting

Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9.
Agenda to follow.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City

2016 "One Sweet Day" Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016, Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ http://berkeleyshores.org/2016_onesweetday.html

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament

Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

Deadline to submit your golf registration form is June 15, 2016 http://berkeleyshores.org/golf.html

Social Activities

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17

Are you a fan of The Garden State Philharmonic Orchestra?

Member Steve Coffey has donated one ticket ($100 VIP) to the June 30 concert at the Ocean County College in Toms River. If so, please submit your name for a drawing to take place at our Annual Meeting on June 25. Last notice.

Neighborhood
Amherst Inlet Sediment Removal

The sediment removal project for the Amherst Inlet is underway and about complete. Sand deposited on the beach side has been removed and the buildup of sand from the groin has been removed. The inlet has been widened, the depth is 4.5 - 5.5 feet and boats can pass during entry and exit. The removal of sediment was done from the Amherst side and spoils were deposited in the proposed park area. Removal will be done when sufficiently drained, possibly this week. We thank the Mayor, Engineering and Steve Seiler, Public Works for their attention to our Amherst Inlet. Please be aware of your vessel speed when entering and exiting the inlet.

Annual Garage Sale

Our 2016 Annual BSHCA Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, August 13 with a rain date of August 14. Details in next newsletter, June 18 after Executive Board meeting on Tuesday, June 14.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

June 7, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Annual Meeting

Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9.
Agenda to follow.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City

2016 "One Sweet Day" Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016, Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ.
For more information, click here.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament

Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

Currently we have 20 foursomes signed up. All interested, please sign up before our foursome registration closes: June 15,2016.

For more information about the event, click here!

Scholarships

Our Scholarship Committee consisting of Chairman, Jim Benn, Nick Donatiello, Irene Benn, Carol Rusnak and Exec. Bd. Liaison, Bob Nunn have completed their work for the 2016 cycle and have selected three deserving students to receive one of 3 $750 awards. The winners for 2016 are James Rand IV from Central Regional. Chase Teichmann, Grandparents, Mike and Barbara Teichmann (BSHCA Members) of Key Largo, Fla and Kayleigh Wilson, Grandparents, Charles and Arlene Wilson (BSHCA Members) of Bayville. All are invited to accept their awards at our June 25, 2016 Annual Meeting.

Social Activities - SAVE THE DATE!

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17. More information soon!

Are you a fan of The Garden State Philharmonic Orchestra?

Member Steve Coffey has donated one ticket ($100 VIP) to the June 30 concert at the Ocean County College in Toms River. If you are interested, please submit your name for a drawing to take place at our Annual Meeting on June 25.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

May 2016

May 31, 2016

BSHCA Memorial Day Celebration and Commemoration to Veterans

The weather held, the sun was shining and the wind a nice breeze. This year, following the boat blessing, we held the Veterans Commemoration Ceremony close to the Amherst Beach in a low tide condition which still provided sufficient water to accommodate our large ceremonial boats. It was nice to see our members and guests lined along the Amherst Beach in full view of the proceedings. Unfortunately, a technical computer problem arose and we could not broadcast from Channel #69 to those on the beach. We will have that issue corrected for next year when we plan to hold the ceremony as close to the beach as possible.

There are so many to thank for the day!

On the water our ceremonial and assembly boats Ohana, My Irene, Kon-Tiki, Guillotine, Sushi Hunter and their Captains, John DiStefano, Jim Benn, Larry Borio, Bill McGrath and Bob Nunn. Blessing prayer, Invocation and Benediction by Father Stas from St Barnabas Parish. Heartfelt speeches by Mayor Carmen Amato, Council President John Bacchione and 1st Ward Councilman, James Byrnes, who also laid the ceremonial wreath upon the waters. Our Central Regional Jr ROTC Color Guard and Col. Mike Tiel. Our trumpeters, Kelly Hartmann and brother, Bill Haughwout. And to all participating boats with their captains and guests.

On shore our picnic committee chaired so excellently by Jerry and JoAnn Coppola with their volunteer crew of head chef Tony Mrofsky and his cooks, John Schnitzer, Dick Andrews, Rich Pachuki, Cole Starzman and Jim Blavat. To Phil and Stephanie Antoine and Chuck Crunkleton. To our DJ, Dick Italiano and his special singing guest, Al Semento. To John Schnitzers’ son, Jeffrey, for the extra condiments. To Mary Lou Andrews and Jean Pachuki for attending to our membership table. A special thank you to Bob Palma for his truck, transporting our tables and equipment and to Councilman Jim Byrnes for the use of his freezer, storing our hamburgers and hot dogs.

Our thanks to Mayor Amato and Public Works Director, Steve Seiler for early removal of silt from our main Amherst lagoon prior to scheduled dredging on June 6. And to the Recreation Departments’ Tim Yurcisin and Jim Sperber and their crew for their attention to our beach needs.

And a thank you to Richards Rental for accommodating our special tent delivery times.
Yesterdays’ celebration is the largest event held by BSHCA during the year. A great deal of planning and coordination is required to make it a successful day. It would not be possible to hold such an event without our strong volunteer force for which I am very grateful. An event, such as we held on Sunday, May 29 proves beyond a doubt that the “boss” is only as good as his/her support people.

Thank you BSHCA Executive Board. Thank you to our member and non-member volunteers.

And thank you BSHCA members, your families, friends and guests for your support of our military. Without them, we would not have the privilege and freedom to enjoy a Memorial Day Celebration such as we held on Sunday.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

May 23, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration - Boat Blessing, Beach Picnic and Veterans Commemoration. The date is next Sunday, May 29 12PM, Amherst Inlet and Beach. Is your boat in the water to enjoy this salute to our Veterans of past wars and to our current military? This year, to be enjoyed by all, we will hold the commemoration ceremony as close to Amherst Beach as possible, tides and depth permitting.
Program, staging and navigating details for the Memorial Day Celebration will be distributed during the week, especially for those who will be participating on the water.

Member Appeal

Our Social Director, Jerry Coppola will need freezer space to store perishables for the Memorial Day Beach Picnic on Sunday, May 29. If anyone has freezer capacity for storage of several boxes of hamburgers and hot dogs, please contact us as soon as possible. Contact Jerry at gjcoppola@yahoo.com

Annual Meeting

Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9.

Main Amherst Inlet

Very limited dredging was done this past week in preparation for the Memorial Day Celebration, but still not deep enough for 2 boats to pass simultaneously. Contracted and more extensive dredging will commence on Monday, June 6. Until then, stay to the center of the inlet at the entrance point.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, July 21, 2016

While our Golf Tournament is still two months away, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the committee, Chairman Ken Gerb and members, Dick Andrews, Jim Benn and John Schnitzer, for their professional manner in conducting the business of the tournament. Other than courtesy memos, I have not been given any tasks, for which I thank the committee. They have generated an impressive list of local business as sponsors which will result in a major event that will pay for itself with maybe a little profit for BSHCA. We are 10 players away from a full complement. Do we have 10 more golfers in the association who can help fill the roster? The prizes are impressive and who knows, you just might be the golfer who gets the “Hole in One,” winning the trip to Hawaii. Join us and make it a successful fun filled day.

Neighborhood Awareness

The recent scrubbing of certain bulkheads has become a cause of concern for some members and residents that requires further explanation. First of all, this project has not been initiated or funded by BSHCA. The bulkhead scrubbing is a NJDEP study project funded by the State of NJ in cooperation with Montclair University. Berkeley Shores, among several other waterfront communities in Ocean county have been selected for the study. Only bulkheads made of vinyl and metal will be addressed for the purpose of diminishing the jellyfish population in the bay and in our lagoons. Recently, the sea nettle (jellyfish) population in the bay has increased, partly due to polyps attaching themselves to non-wood bulkhead structures and eventually hatching eggs which increases the jellyfish population in the bay. (Wooden bulkheads contain chemicals that repel polyps). Five more lagoons in Berkeley Shores were done on Sunday, May 22. BSHCA is in touch with the DEP study team and will consider a presentation at a future member meeting and will include details on resident scrubbing of bulkheads. We apologize if this has caused some confusion on the part of our members.

Mayor’ Golf Tournament, June 2, 2016

BSHCA members who entered their names to play in the Mayors’ Tournament were selected on Wednesday, May 18. The selection committee was comprised of one committee member, Gianna Grace Pavolic, the 4 year old granddaughter of our Secretary, Grandma Lucille Pavolic. They are Ken Gerb, Dick Andrews and Steve Coffey. Lucille informed me on Friday that she still remembers the names. Good job Gianna.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

May 18, 2016 - Special Notice

Dear Members,

The DEP has planned a bulkhead scrubbing operation in certain waterfront areas in Ocean County. Several lagoons in Berkeley Shores were addressed on Saturday, May 14. They have planned the scrubbing of bulkheads in 5 lagoons for Sunday, May 22. There has been some concern that the treatment can damage older, wooden bulkheads. Wooden bulkheads contain chemicals which act as repellents to sea nettle polyps and do not contribute to the problem.
No wooden bulkheads will be treated. Only vinyl and metal bulkheads will be scrubbed with brushes. Power washers will not be used.

The following information was prepared by the New Jersey Department of Environmental protection (NJDEP)

DID YOU KNOW?
YOU CAN HELP REDUCE THE SEA NETTLES IN BARNEGAT BAY!
Polyps (baby jellyfish) attach to smooth, hard surfaces. Recent Scientific Studies show the bottom of floating docks & man-made bulkheads could provide a perfect habitat for Hundreds of thousands of jellyfish.

LAGOON RESIDENTS CAN HELP REDUCE THE SEA NETTLE POPULATION BY:

Removing floatables such as PVC barrels & plastics from the waterways
Removing floating docks, when possible
Power washing the underside of docks, piers & bulkheads in early fall & early spring

Berkeley Township Underwater Search & Rescue Squad will come together with NJDEP to knock out sea nettles in specific lagoons in Berkeley Shores. We will be scrubbing bulkheads and docks to remove the polyps.
On Sunday, May 22 we will be targeting Centerboard Drive, Carlyle Drive, Amherst Drive, Drake Drive and Toppinglift Drive.
Any Question please Contact: Lynette.lurig@dep.nj.gov

For information on Sea Nettles in Barnegat Bay:

http://nj.gov/dep/dsr/barnegat/final-reports/sea-nettles-reports.htm

http://bbp.ocean.edu/pages/323.asp

May 16, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration, Boat Blessing, Beach Picnic and Veterans' Commemoration.

The date is Sunday, May 29 12PM, Amherst Inlet and Beach. Is your boat in the water to enjoy this salute to our Veterans of past wars and to our current military? This year we will hold the commemoration ceremony as close to Amherst Beach as possible, tides and depth permitting.

Annual Meeting

Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016, Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

Berkeley Farm Market on Tuesday, May 17, 10AM to 4PM @ The Rec, Ctr Rt 9

Main Amherst Inlet - Some dredging was done this past week, but still not deep enough for 2 boats to pass at same time. Stay to the center of the inlet at the entrance point.

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17

Contact Jerry Coppola: gjcoppola@yahoo.com

Please Help Popcorn Park Animal Shelter

Don’t forget to call Carol Rusnak for items for the Popcorn Zoo, especially newspapers. Carol 732 606 9047

May 9, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration, Boat Blessing, Beach Picnic and Veterans' Commemoration.

Annual Meeting

Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016, Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

Berkeley Farm Market on Tuesday, May 17, 10AM to 4PM @ The Rec, Ctr Rt 9

Main Amherst Inlet - Some dredging was done this past week, but still not deep enough for 2 boats to pass at same time. Stay to the center of the inlet at the entrance point.

Trip to Lancaster, American Music Theater Christmas Show Thursday, November 17

Contact Jerry Coppola: gjcoppola@yahoo.com

Please Help Popcorn Park Animal Shelter

Don’t forget to call Carol Rusnak for items for the Popcorn Zoo, especially newspapers. Carol 732 606 9047

May 9, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration, Boat Blessing, Beach Picnic and Veterans Commemoration. The date is Sunday, May 29 12PM, Amherst Inlet and Beach.

Annual Meeting
Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM at the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

For information, visit our website golf page!

Berkeley Farm Market Returns for 2016.

Tuesday, May 10 from 10AM to 4PM @ The Berkeley Twp. Recreation Center.

BSHCA Scholarships (3 $750 Scholarships) Jim Benn

The cutoff date for this extended period is June 7, 2016. Visit our Scholarship Page for more information!

Social Director, Jerry Coppola

The bus trip to Lancaster, PA for the Christmas Show at the American Music Theater is set for Thursday, November 17, 2016. Please let us know of your attendance and the number in your party for this event, as soon as possible. Just click on reply and answer with number of people in your party. Thank you.

Please Help Popcorn Park Animal Shelter

As you complete your spring cleaning, please put aside all unwanted throw rugs, towels, sheets, etc., and save all newspapers (black/white print only). Popcorn Park animal shelter is always in desperate need of these items. Just call me and I will be glad to pick up from you and deliver to them. Thank you so much for caring. Carol Rusnak 732-606-9047

Special Announcement from NJ DEP

The NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), has taken action to address the growing problem of the stinging sea nettle infestation of Barnegat Bay. More common in the northern areas of the bay, the problem is now migrating into our area and south. Sea nettles are hearty and resistant to low water quality, depositing speck size polyps to bulkheads and other hard surfaces. The polyps spawn into buds and release themselves into the water to become sea nettles in the summer. Attempting to control the situation, the DEP has instituted a program in cooperation with Montclair University (The Bulkhead Blitz) designed to reduce or eliminate the problem by scrubbing bulkheads in the spring prior and to hatching. Volunteer crews from the DEP and Berkeley Twp. Underwater Search and Rescue Dive Team will conduct bulkhead scrubbing operations in Berkeley Shores on Saturday, May 14 on Ocean Gate Ave, Storm Jib, Spinnaker, and Top Sail Courts and again on Sunday, May 22 on Centerboard, Carlyle, Amherst, Drake and Toppinglift Drives. For additional information, contact the following sites:

BarnegatBayBlitz@dep.nj.gov

http://bbp.ocean.edu/pages/323.asp

http://nj.gov/dep/dsr/barnegat/final-reports/sea-nettles-year1.pdf

http://www.nj.gov/dep/barnegatbay/plan-research.htm.

The DEP flyer will be emailed to BSHCA members prior to the weekend.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

May 3, 2016

BSHCA 2016 Events Schedule

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration, Boat Blessing, Beach Picnic and Veterans Commemoration. The date is Sunday, May 29 12PM, Amherst Inlet and Beach. Please keep the date open to honor our Veterans of past and present wars and to enjoy a day with your friends, family and neighbors at our annual picnic. The Veterans Commemoration on the water will be held as close to the Amherst Beach as water depths permit.
More details on this subject as we approach the day of the event, especially for participating boats.

Annual Meeting

Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. It will be held at the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9. Doors will open at 8:30AM.

Mayors Annual Golf Tournament

The tournament will be held on Thursday, June 2 at the Cedar Creek Golf Course. Three BSHCA members will be selected in a lottery drawing of participants who have entered their names for consideration. Please contact Fred Bekiarian on 732 809 4807 or email fred.bek@comcast.net.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

If you are planning to join the group for the AC Boat Trip this year, please inform us through the BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org, while slips are still available.

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. You may invite non BSHCA members to assemble their own foursomes. Golfers, let’s all do our part to recognize and support the hard work of the committee to make this 1st BSHCA Tournament a success. For information, visit our website golf page!

Membership

Membership Chairman, Ken Gerb reports that we continue to receive renewal dues for the 2015-2016 membership cycle. If you have not sent in your dues payment for the 2015-2016 cycle, please do so.

BSHCA Scholarships (3 $750 Scholarships) Jim Benn

Thank you for your response to our extended deadline for family related scholarships. As a result, we have received several more applications from BSHCA family members. The cutoff date for this extended period is changed from June 11 to June 7, 2016.

Social Director, Jerry Coppola

Based on a strong response from members (50+) participating in the bus trip to Lancaster, PA for the Christmas Show at the American Music Theater, we have rescheduled the event for this fall. The date is Thursday, November 17. Fifty tickets have been reserved. Please let us know of your attendance and the number in your party for this event, as soon as possible. The theater is already reserving tickets for the 2017 season.

Neighborhood Awareness

I have recently offered Mayor Amato a byline in our weekly newsletter to address items he deems relevant to residents and especially for waterfront issues.

From Mayor Amato:
Water Quality

As many of you have seen in the news recently, high amounts of lead have been found in drinking water in Detroit, Michigan and in Newark, New Jersey. Potable water to Berkeley Township residents are provided by five different water companies. Aqua New Jersey; New Jersey American Water Company; Suez Water Company; Shore Water Company and Berkeley Township MUA. As Mayor, I have contacted each water purveyor to provide the latest testing information. As this information is received, it will be posted on the Township’s Web Site for easy reference by our residents. New Jersey American Water Company and Suez Water Company have also provided “Fact Sheets” with answers to the most frequently asked questions about lead. We hope this information will be helpful.

Berkeley Farm Market Returns for 2016

I’m pleased to announce the Return of the Summer Farmers Market. This year the Market will have a new location, new vendors and new time. The new location will be the Berkeley Township Recreation Center located at 630 Route 9, in Bayville. The start of the market will be Tuesday, May 10 from 10AM to 4PM and will be held each Tuesday to October.

Opposing New Jersey Natural Gas

Recently I expressed my strong opposition to a New Jersey Natural Gas proposed 24% rate hike. This type of proposed rate increase is unconscionable. I want to thank the Township Council in joining me in a resolution of strong opposition. As you know, I have had a long history of opposing utility company increases. I have reached out to other area Mayors and Legislators in opposition, requesting the Board of Public Utilities to deny the proposed increase. These are difficult economic times for those on fixed incomes and hard working families. An increase of this magnitude would no doubt have a negative impact on our residents, especially our seniors who did not see a Social Security cost of living increase this year. The proposed rate hike would increase an average homeowner’s bill by $22 per month. If our Township and other Governmental agencies are bound by a 2 percent cap. It's time the BPU to hold utility companies to the same standard.
What you can do to help. I’m asking residents to help in this fight by sending a letter, email or to call the State Division of Rate Counsel to let them know you’re tired of outrageous increases from utility companies. Tell them YOU OPPOSE NEW JERSEY NATURAL GAS PROPOSED 24% INCREASE!!
The Division of Rate Counsel
140 East Front Street 4th Floor
P.O. Box 003, Trenton, N.J. 08625
Phone: 609-984-1460 Email: njratepayer@rpa.state.nj.us

BSHCA Sponsors/Advertisers

We currently feature 25 active paying sponsors/advertisers in our website under the heading of local sponsors on our home page. Each advertisement also includes a link to their individual website. Just click on the sponsor name and the link will appear, giving you additional information about their service. We encourage you to utilize our sponsors for your needs and to advise us of the quality of their service.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

April 2016

April 25, 2016

BSHCA Events Schedule

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration, Boat Blessing, Beach Picnic and Veterans Commemoration.
Sunday, May 29 12PM, Amherst Inlet and Beach.

This will be our first event of the 2016 season. Please enter the date in your calendars for a nice turnout for our Vets. On Sunday, Bill and Marion McGrath and I surveyed the water depth close to the Amherst Beach and found that there is sufficient depth to hold the Veterans' Commemoration Ceremony close to the Amherst Beach for all to enjoy from the water and the beach. We are mainly concerned with sufficient depth to accommodate the larger ceremonial boats with deeper drafts, as the smaller boats can participate with proper maneuvering within the ceremonial area. The boat blessings will be given as vessels exit from the main Amherst Lagoon. Much more on this subject as we approach the day of the event.

Annual Meeting

The Annual Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. It will be held at the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9. Doors will open at 8:30AM. Program agenda will be finalized and announced at a later date.

Mayors Annual Golf Tournament

The tournament will be held on Thursday, June 2 at the Cedar Creek Golf Course. The board has voted to support the tournament, donating a foursome and a sponsor sign to be planted on one of the greens. Three members will be selected in a lottery drawing of participants who have entered their names for consideration. Please contact Fred Bekiarian on 732 809 4807 or email on fred.bek@comcast.net, to enter your name for the drawing. To date, 7 members have submitted their names for the drawing. Note: Mayor Amato has generously purchased a foursome for our 1st Golf Tournament.

BSHCA 4th Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

If you are planning to join the group for the AC Boat Trip this year, please inform us through the BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org, while slips are still available. To date we have received positive responses from 6 BSHCA members.

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

Golf Committee Chairman, Ken Gerb, reports that we currently signed up 17 foursomes for the tournament. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. You may invite non BSHCA members to assemble their own foursomes. Golfers, let’s all do our part to recognize and support the hard work of the committee to make this 1st BSHCA Tournament a success.

Membership

Membership Chairman, Ken Gerb reports that past dues payments are coming in at a satisfactory rate and we thank you for your response. As a result, our households are currently at 361-- consisting of 665-- members. We are at 98% of our goal. Our membership year begins on July 1st and ends on June 30. If you have not sent in your dues payment for the 2015-2016 cycle, please do so. If you received a notification in your email, but have paid your dues, please advise our membership chairman, Ken Gerb, by clicking on reply and responding with your message.

Neighborhood Awareness

There was a report by a member that a recycle container and a canoe were stolen from a property on Amherst. Please be observant of activities in your neighborhood. Strangers in the neighborhood or solicitors? Ask for ID.

Main Amherst Inlet Conditions

A thank you to Bill and Marion McGrath for relocating the NO WAKE buoy from the middle of the channel. The buoy was placed in the middle by the marine police in an effort to discourage speeding as boaters approached the no wake area. Let’s all be responsible this boating season to avoid such actions in the future.
A survey of water depth in the main lagoon as follows: Depth in the middle along the new bulkhead measures 5-6 feet. A narrow trough at the spit entrance to the bay is about 5 feet deep. Maintain a distance of about 10 feet from the end of the sand spit as you enter the bay channel at the mouth of the inlet. It is not possible for two boats to pass simultaneously at this time.

Environmental Awareness by Bill McGrath, Chairman, BT Waterways Advisory Commission.

Lagoon communities are susceptible to a natural phenomenon known as algae blooms. Especially vulnerable are those lagoons farthest from the bay which experience less frequent flushing. This situation is recognized by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection as a key to improving the health of the bay and cited as #2 (Storm Water Runoff) of the Ten Point program for improving the water quality of Barnegat Bay. This type of algae is a normal occurrence this time of year in both Barnegat Bay and its lagoon tributaries since storm water runoff makes its way to lagoons in most waterfront communities.
The substance appears as a sort of "green silty gunk." It occurs in water areas that have a high nitrogen content and possibly due to residents applying pre-emergence crabgrass control with fertilizer on residential lawns. It may get worse later on this spring when everyone puts down the broadleaf weed killer and fertilizer between now and the middle of May. Although this particular species of algae may not be harmful to humans, it is harmful to the benthic life in the lagoon as it depletes the oxygen from the water.

BSHCA Scholarships (3 $750 Scholarships)

Thank you for your response to our extended deadline for family related scholarships. As a result, we have received several more applications from BSHCA family members. A recent query from a member asked if a scholarship was available for post graduate studies. Unfortunately, the original intent of the program required a grading system that was designed and limited to high school seniors and will remain so. The cutoff date for this extended period is June 11, 2016.

Social Director, Jerry Coppola

Based on a strong response from members (50+) participating in the bus trip to Lancaster, PA for the Christmas Show at the American Music Theater in November of 2015, we would like to reschedule the event for this fall. Since commitments are needed for minimum head counts, please advise us if you are interested with the number of guests in your party. Membership in BSHCA is not necessary to join us. This is a very popular show. Since tickets must be purchased far in advance of the show for good seating, please respond promptly. Email fred.bek@comcast.net with CHRISTMAS SHOW in the subject line and the number of people in your party. Thank you.

BSHCA Sponsors/Advertisers

Correction
Last weeks’ newsletter erroneously stated that Bob and Gail from Good Luck Point Marina provided their conference room for the BSHCA board meeting. We should have stated Roy and Gail. Sorry.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

April 18, 2016

BSHCA Events Schedule

Winter is over and time to get back into full swing. The Executive Board met on April 12 for a three-hour meeting at the Good Luck Point Marina Conference Room. We thank BSHCA members and owners of the marina, Bob and Gail for their generosity in providing a convenient location for board meetings. The planning of events and schedules was conducted to the end of December. We start with the:

Memorial Day Celebration consisting of the Annual Beach Picnic, Boat Blessing and Veterans Commemoration on Sunday, May 29. We are anticipating a change of venue for the Blessing and Commemoration this year due to the very rough and windy bay conditions over the past two years at Buoy #39, causing many to forego participation. 2nd VP Bob Nunn and BSHCA member Bill McGrath will oversee the boating traffic during the blessing event and the ceremony. As soon as possible they will survey the area off of Amherst Beach to determine water depth for the larger ceremonial boats (3). If depth is sufficient, we will hold the commemoration as close to the beach as possible for the enjoyment of all, on the water and on the beach with sound. Starting time will be 12PM. Detailed instructions will be given via newsletters, prior to the events of the day.

Annual Meeting - The Annual Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, June 25 from 9AM to 11AM. It will be held at the Berkeley Township Recreation Center on Rt 9. Doors will open at 8:30AM. Program will be finalized and announced at a later date.

Mayor's Annual Golf Tournament- The tournament will be held on Thursday, June 2 at the Cedar Creek Golf Course. The board has voted to support the tournament, donating a foursome and a sponsor sign to be planted on one of the greens. Funds from the tournament are used for township recreational purposes such as the Summer Concerts. BSHCA members are invited to enter a drawing to fill the foursome. Three members will be selected in a lottery drawing of participants who have entered their names for consideration. Please contact Fred Bekiarian at 732 809 4807 or email on fred.bek@comcast.net, to enter your name for the drawing. Note: Mayor Amato has generously purchased a foursome for our 1st Golf Tournament.

Atlantic City Boat Trip – Friday, July 8 to Sunday, July 10. Click here for details.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament – Thursday, July 21, Click here for details.

Annual Garage Sale - Scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 13 with a rain date of Sunday, Aug. 14. New board member, Director Gary Dinallo will conduct the event.

Endless Summer Party - Possible schedule in mid-September. Due to the diminishing number of members and guests attending the Annual Holiday Party, the board voted to cancel the traditional party held in December for an "Endless Summer Party" to be held in the mid-September time frame. In September, many members are still enjoying the end of the summer, the Snow Birds are still here and the weekenders are still coming down. Board is seeking ways to encourage more member participation in social events. Social Director, Jerry Coppola will seek out venues, prices and dates of availability.

Annual Food Drive - Scheduled for Saturday, November 5. Proceeds will be donated to St Barnabas Parish for Thanksgiving Food Baskets to the needy. BSHCA is a major contributor.

General Membership Meeting - To be announced between October and December.

Membership

Membership Chairman, Ken Gerb reports our households total 357 consisting of 658 members. We are at 97% of our goal. Our membership year begins on July 1st and ends on June 30. These reminder messages pertain to delinquent dues for the current year. If you have not sent in your dues payment for the 2015-2016 cycle, please do so.

Neighborhood Awareness

Scammers are hitting close to home. Have you been getting calls from people who claim to be from the Internal Revenue Service or say they work for the IRS? Hang up and call the police or the IRS, Police Chief Karin T. DiMichele says. The IRS scam is unfortunately back in full swing, the chief says. Residents are receiving calls from individuals claiming to be or work for the IRS who are attempting to scam people out of their personal information or money," DiMichele said. "They do this by attempting to frighten people over the phone with threats of lawsuits or criminal arrests/warrants." Do not send money or give out any personal information to anyone who calls you. "Do call the police if you are a victim of this scam or if your information has been compromised," DiMichele said. Residents can also call the IRS directly with questions or to report scams at the 732-660-0063 (Freehold Office) or at 609-989-0533 (Trenton Office).
"It's best to report scams to the IRS directly as they have their own law enforcement component to investigate scam calls, which originate mostly out of the country," the chief said.

BSHCA Scholarships

The deadline for BSHCA Scholarships has been extended. If you have a senior child or grandchild in any high school, they are eligible to apply. Please refer to our web site for application forms and instructions, berkeleyshores.org. Do not miss out on one of three BSHCA $750 scholarships.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, Thursday, July 21, 2016

If you have not yet gathered your foursome for the 1st BSHCA Tournament, give it some thought, bringing family and friends together for an enjoyable day. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. The previous rule requiring a BSCHA member be a part of each foursome has been rescinded. You may invite non BSHCA members to assemble their own foursomes. Golfers, let’s all do our part to make this 1st BSHCA Tournament a success! Visit the BSCHA Golf Tournament webpage for more information.

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

If you are planning to join the group for the AC Boat Trip this year, please inform us through the BSHCA "One Sweet Day" webpage, while slips are still available.
Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

April 11, 2016

Dear Member,
These weekly messages are issued from the executive board to encourage all to stay in touch. Please let us know of issues, news, or activities that you believe would be of interest to others in our efforts to help better serve our community. Contact us on info@berkeleyshores.org. Changed your email address or wish to comment? Please advise our membership chairman on members@berkeleyshores.org.

Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Membership

There might be a misunderstanding regarding these messages on membership dues. Our membership year begins on July 1st and ends on June 30. These reminder messages pertain to delinquent dues for the current year. Annual letters are sent to all members for the coming cycle in the June time frame. Some members have sent in 2 checks for the current year which will be credited to the next cycle, July 1,2016 to June 30, 2017. If you have not sent in your dues payment for the 2015-2016 cycle, please do so.

Neighborhood Awareness

The recent replacement of sewer and water lines on Ronald and Archer Aves have caused inconvenience and disruption to residents of both streets. We have been informed by the Berkeley Twp. Sewerage Authority that the repaving of those streets will commence on May 1, 2016. We hope this action will complete the project and normalcy can return to the area.

BSHCA Scholarships

To date we have received seven scholarship applications from the Central Regional High School. Surprisingly, we have received one application from our member base. If you have children or grandchildren who are seniors in any school district, please encourage them to apply. We grant three annual $750 scholarships. See web site, berkeleyshores.org/schlorship.html for details and forms.

Oyster Creek and Double Creek Channels

Shoaling issues continue in the Oyster Creek/Double Creek areas of the bay. The Army Corps of Engineers will commence dredging in Oyster Creek between buoys 37-40 in the April/May time frame and Double Creek in the Fall of 2016 timeframe.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

Happy Hookers

Ocean County maintains an active “Support the Troops Project,” spearheaded by Mr. Lloyd Millikin, 732 269 1397 or lloydm@write2us.com. The organization mails over 230 large packages annually, some weighing more than 70 pounds. The various senior communities in Berkeley Township along with many other organizations, including our own Happy Hookers contribute on a continuing basis, necessary items of convenience that may not be readily available in the more remote and isolated areas served by our military. Simple items like candies, toiletries, batteries, eye drops, bug spray, greeting cards, microwave foods, band aids, pens/pencils, coffee packets, DVD movies. If you wish to participate, drop off items at Kathy Peach, 15 Starboard Court or call her on 732 237 0901. For a more complete list, go to Happy Hookers on our web site, berkeleyshores.org or contact Mr. Lloyd Millikin.

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

If you are planning to join the group for the AC Boat Trip this year, please inform us through the BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org, while slips are still available.

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

April 4, 2016

Membership

Each week we get closer to our goal. Don’t let up now. Send in your dues if not done so and encourage non-member residents to join us.

Neighborhood Awareness

Lately, a serious virus named Ransomware has been infecting our computer world. “There is no cure for Ransomware infection, unless you have backed up your files on a secondary device,” says Ocean County Prosecutors Office spokesman, Al Della Fave. This virus will take over control of your computer and data by a secret code encryption. This malicious software can be installed from a website, email, instant message, or social network. Once infected, it will lock up. To safeguard your data, keep your security software up to date, do not open suspicious emails, back up your files and do not send money. Report Ransomware incidences to the Ocean County Prosecutor Office on 732 929 2027

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

If you are planning to join the group for the AC Boat Trip this year, please inform us through the BSHCA web site, berkeleyshores.org, while slips are still available.
Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

March 2016

March 28 2016

Dear Member,

Dear Member,
These weekly messages are issued from the executive board to encourage all to stay in touch. Please let us know of issues, news, or activities that you believe would be of interest to others in our efforts to help better serve our community. Contact us on info@berkeleyshores.org. Changed your email address or wish to comment? Please advise our membership chairman on members@berkeleyshores.org.

Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Membership

We are a few members away from our goal. Don’t let up now. Send in your dues if not done so and encourage non-member residents to join us.

Neighborhood Awareness

The scams are still with us and getting more creative as time passes. I guess technology works both ways, most times in our favor, but at times, detrimental to our financial health. That is why it is important to safeguard your personal information, especially when it pertains to your finances. Be careful about texting information between family members, especially PIN numbers of bank accounts and other sensitive records. Consider setting up code words between family members to verify the person you are communicating with is who they say they are. Make sure your car doors are locked.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

Chairman of the Tournament, Ken Gerb, informs that we are two foursomes short of our goal of 18 foursomes. The committee is depending on you to gather your foursomes. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. It should be a very enjoyable day. Refer to our BSHCA web site for details

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

From Mayor Carmen Amato

Is there an issue that needs attention? There is a solution. You can meet Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr. on a one-to one basis from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, March 28, at Town Hall.
It's the latest session of "Meet the Mayor" in an effort to make local government more open and accessible.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

March 21 2016

Membership

We are still at 14 members short of our goal of meeting 2014-2015 membership roster. Keep up the good work, especially for those members who have not yet renewed their dues payment.

Scholarships (Repeat)

There is still time for members to register their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, etc. for one of our $750 Scholarships? There are three available this year and the deadline is April 1st, 2016. Please click on our web site for full details. berkeleyshores.org.
Neighborhood Awareness
Those scams are still around and growing. GPS systems seem to be a real asset to the thief. Most of us have built frequent addresses in our car GPS systems. Very useful to the thief is the establishment of your home address reference. If your car is stolen the need only to access your system and they will not only know where you live, but your “smart” car will take them there. Especially useful for a sporting event since they know how long you will be in the stadium, giving them plenty of time. Consider establishing you home address as that of your local police dept. since you will not need your GPS for the full trip home.
Make sure your car doors are locked.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament is a major undertaking with a great amount of detail that must be addressed to make it a success. We are depending on you to gather your foursomes. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. The Committee, under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb are doing their part. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, www.berkleyshores.org, to secure their foursome. Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

We are excited to be returning to Atlantic City and the folks over at Farley State Marina at the Golden Nugget are thrilled to have us back. Beginning this year we are limiting this trip strictly for BSHCA members. Those that are not members and want to join BSHCA can fill out the attached BSHCA membership form and return along with their check for $30 annual dues.
All paid BSHCA members will enjoy the special negotiated group slip rate, will receive custom credentials to the lavish Friday night “TABLE OF THE GODS” buffet, and will receive complimentary T shirts for Captain and crew. See BSHCA One Sweet Day page for application forms.

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

Our 2016 BSHCA Events Planning

We have recently been informed that one of the participating boats will not be available for the Veterans Commemoration on the water this year due to a personal scheduling conflict. We will need a vessel large enough to accommodate 6 members of the Central Regional ROTC Color Guard. Please contact Fred Bekiarian, 732 809 4807, if your boat can accommodate the party and is available for the event to take place on Sunday, May 29, 2016, 12pm.

Summer Concert Series

The Berkeley Township Summer Concert Series begins on June 29, 2016 with a performance by Shadows of the 60’s, a Motown Tribute Band followed by a fireworks display. All concerts will kick off at 6pm. Click here for the Berkeley Township Recreation Concert Series webpage.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

March 16, 2016 - What's going on with Berkeley Shores Real Estate?

2015 was a year that experienced some stabilization of waterfront prices in the Berkeley Shores section. Sales in 2015 of 25 units were effectively the same as in 2014. In all of Bayville, 42 properties closed, about the same as the prior year.

Almost all of the properties sold at price levels below the towns assessed value by an average of 13%. Consideration of a tax appeal might be beneficial.

The market still remains advantageous to buyers since inventory levels are double as compared to 2005, just before the big national downturn in real estate. Currently there are 43 Berkeley Shores homes on the market, ranging in price from $179,000 to $799,900. All of Bayville has 67 waterfront properties available, ranging in price from $114,900 up to $1,315,000. Sales at the higher end of the market remain far and few between. The highest Bayville sale last year was $750,000 on Island Drive (just north of the Cove restaurant). For Berkley Shores the highest sale was on Peaksail Drive at $562,000.

Buyers are very educated in regard to flood zones, elevation certificates and flood insurance. They are doing their homework. If you do not have flood insurance, you should give serious consideration to purchasing it. You will need an elevation certificate, enabling the insurance carrier to provide you with an accurate quote. You may have an elevation certificate from when you purchased the property however, depending on the age, it may no longer be valid. If the one you have referenced NAVD 1988 under point #10 that is good since it is the current standard. At this point a flood insurance policy can be assumed by a new owner. The premium you are likely to be paying would be considerably less than a new policy a buyer would need, thus making your property more marketable when you consider selling.

Real estate is a financial investment that most people live in. Unlike most other investment plans, you don’t receive a monthly statement telling you what your home is worth. The best way to stay current with property values is through the Berkeley Shores web site real estate section. I post both the active homes and very importantly homes that have sold in the past six months for Berkeley Shores and all waterfront sales for Bayville going back about 12 months.

Bob Nunn, 2nd VP BSHCA and his wife Kathi are realtors with Coldwell Banker Riviera Reality.

March 14, 2016

Dear Member,

Dear Member,
These weekly messages are issued from the executive board to encourage all to stay in touch. Please let us know of issues, news, or activities that you believe would be of interest to others in our efforts to help better serve our community. Contact us on info@berkeleyshores.org. Changed your email address or wish to comment? Please advise our membership chairman on members@berkeleyshores.org.

Mayors HOT LINE, 732 244 7400 ext 203 Report your concerns, issues, suggestions.
Police Chiefs TIP LINE 732 341 1132 ext 611. Report suspicious activity

Membership

We are only 14 members away from our goal of meeting 2014-2015 membership roster. Keep up the good work, especially for those members who have not yet renewed their dues payment.

Scholarships (Repeat)

Are any family members eligible to apply for one of our $750 Scholarships? There are three available this year and the deadline is April 1st, 2016. Please click on our web site for full details. http://berkeleyshores.org/scholarship.html

Neighborhood Awareness

Mayor Amato has instituted a program designed to make it easy for township residents to report roadside trouble spots caused by the harsh winter snows and icing. Of particular note are potholes that the Public Works Dept. may not be aware of. To report such trouble spots, access the township web site, twp.berkeley.nj.us and use the special form (link to the form is available here) to provide road location information. If you have questions, please feel free to contact Steven J. Seiler, Principal Public Works Manager on 732 349 4616 or 732 341 1022. Or you may email him on btpwsec@twp.berkeley.nj.us.

Make sure your car doors are locked.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

Click here to visit the BSCHA "One Sweet Day" page.

Our 2016 BSHCA Events Planning

Spring is just around the corner and time to start gearing up for our schedule of annual events, starting with Memorial Day. We have just been informed that one of the participating boats will not be available for the Veterans Commemoration on the water this year due to a personal scheduling conflict. We will need a vessel large enough to accommodate 6 members of the Central Regional ROTC Color Guard. Please contact Fred Bekiarian, 732 809 4807, if your boat can accommodate the party and is available for the event to take place on Sunday, May 29, 2016, 12pm.

Summer Concert Series

The Berkeley Township Summer Concert Series begins on June 29, 2016 with a performance by Shadows of the 60’s, a Motown Tribute Band followed by a fireworks display. All concerts will kick off at 6pm. Visit the Berkeley Township Recreation page or download a printable flyer here.

Environmental Presentation

On March 19, 2016 from 11AM-1PM, The American Littoral Society will hold an informational session on Living Shorelines, beginning with a short video on climate change. A Q&A session on coastal resiliency will follow. The program will be held at the Red Bank Public Library, 84 W. Front St, Red Bank, NJ. For reservation Call 732 291 0055 or email Zack@littoralsociety.org.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

March 7, 2016

Membership

Each week we get closer to that 100% mark. Please speak up to your non-member neighbors and encourage them to join our association. We continue to send out information to non-member residents in Berkeley Shores with applications and brochures for those wishing to join us. Please do your part in speaking for and promoting BSHCA.

Scholarships

Neighborhood Awareness

Worth repeating during this tax season. The IRS warns that scam calls during this tax year are up 400%. The schemes involve telephone calls, texts, emails and threats of IRS lawsuits designed to trick the taxpayer into believing the messages represent official communications from the IRS. When consumers click on the web sites, they are sent to what appear to be government web sites that ask for Social Security numbers, IRS personal identification numbers (PIN) and other personal information that can be used to file false tax returns under your name. The caller will also attempt to scare you into believing that you are in tax payment arrears and immediate payment must be made through your bank account. The IRS never solicits for unpaid taxes through emails or telephone calls. Make sure your car doors are locked.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament is a major undertaking with a great amount of detail that must be addressed to make it a success. We are depending on you to gather your foursomes. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. The Committee, under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb are doing their part. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, www.berkleyshores.org, to secure their foursome. Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ

Our 2016 BSHCA Events Planning

Spring is just around the corner and time to start gearing up for our schedule of annual events, starting with Memorial Day. Our social director, Jerry Coppola and his wife, JoAnne are busy planning the Beach Picnic. Our Boat Blessing and Veterans Commemoration is underway with just about all participants signed up. We plan a different venue this year, pending water levels, we hope to bring the event closer to the beach for all to see. Our ceremonial boats range in size from 34’ to 40’ and we must be mindful of their drafts.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

February 2016

February 22, 2016

Executive Board Announcement

Recent member to the executive board, John Sowakinas, has offered his resignation due to a much busier personal schedule. John started our neighborhood Awareness program with the cooperation of our Berkeley Township Police Dept. We thank John for his work on this project and for his co-chairing the Garage Sale with former director, Anthony La Porte. We will be looking to replace John with a new director to continue the Awareness Program. If any member wishes to be considered for the position please contact us through our web site contact page.

Mayor Amato’s Town Hall Meetings

Have a question or is there something that you would like to get off of your chest? Then come to Town Hall on Thursday, Feb. 25 from 5:30 to 7PM. The Mayor is holding new office hours on Thursdays to be more accessible to the residents, giving them the opportunity to share their suggestions, concerns or complaints aimed at improving government response to taxpayers and improving the quality of life in town.

Membership

Our Membership Chairman and 1st VP Ken Gerb, reports that we continue to close in on that 100% mark. We continue to send out information to non-member residents in Berkeley Shores with applications and brochures for those wishing to join us. Please do your part in speaking for and promoting BSHCA.

Neighborhood Awareness

Members, the number of scams and fraudulent telephone calls is on the rise. There have also been reports of accelerated car break ins. Please make sure your car doors a locked at night and remove any valuables.

There have been recent calls from individuals identifying themselves as court employees. They sound very official and threatening. You will be advised to contact them for an appearance in court, subject to arrest, but do not provide details regarding the court location or the subject material. Unless you are scheduled or waiting for a court appearance and the caller refers to the specifics, disregard the call.
The IRS warns that scam calls during this tax year are up 400%. The schemes involve Telephone calls, texts, emails and threats of IRS lawsuits designed to trick the taxpayer into believing the messages represent official communications from the IRS. When consumers click on the web sites, they are sent to what appear to be government web sites that ask for Social Security numbers, IRS personal identification numbers (PIN) and other personal information that can be used to file false tax returns under your name. Clicking on these sites can also set your computer up with malicious malware enabling cyber thieves to access your computer. The caller will also attempt to scare you into believing that you re in tax payment arrears and immediate payment must be made through your bank account. The IRS urges people not to click on these sites. The IRS never solicits for unpaid taxes through emails or telephone calls.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament is a major undertaking with a great amount of detail that must be addressed to make it a success. We are depending on you to gather your foursomes. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. The Committee, under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb are doing their part. Ken reports that 13 foursomes have already committed and more are on the way. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should click on the link: http://berkeleyshores.org/golf.html, to secure their foursome.

Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

Snow Shoveling (Repeat)

Please help with this request if you know of anyone interested in placing an ad in our web site... Many of our members are not up to the task for various reasons. BSHCA is not in a position to recommend people who provide snow shoveling services. However, if anyone of our members knows of individuals who provide such services, please encourage them to place an ad in our web site. In this manner we can then direct them to our paid ads in the web site and they can select from whomever is advertising. Our 2nd VP, Bob Nunn, handles ads. He can be contacted through the web site, berkeleyshores.org. In addition, if you are in need of snow shoveling we encourage you to prepare ahead of time by scheduling a vendor in the event of snow. Remember to move your cars off the street to allow for more efficient snow plowing by the township.

Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City - 2016 "One Sweet Day"

We are excited to be returning to Atlantic City and the folks over at Farley State Marina at the Golden Nugget are thrilled to have us back. Beginning this year we are limiting this trip strictly for BSHCA members. Those that are not members and want to join BSHCA can fill out the BSHCA membership form by clicking here and return along with their check for $30 annual dues.

All paid BSHCA members will enjoy the special negotiated group slip rate, will receive custom credentials to the lavish Friday night “TABLE OF THE GODS” buffet, and will receive complimentary T shirts for Captain and crew. See BSHCA web site for "One Sweet Day" application forms.
Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ
Website and Info: Farley State Marina
Dock Layout: DOCKS

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

February 15, 2016

Executive Board Announcement

Director Anthony La Porte joined us in June of 2015, took charge of the Annual Garage Sale with Director John Sowakinas and co-chaired the running of the Food Drive in November with John Schnitzer. Anthony has resigned from the board due to the impending sale of his home. Member Gary Dinallo has joined the board in his place and will resume the same duties. He will be meeting with Anthony who will assist him with the details necessary to running a successful Garage Sale. Thank you Anthony for a job well done. Good Luck in your new home.

Winter Doldrums / 2016 BSHCA Events

As our Treasurer John Schnitzer so aptly expressed on his Island Bulletin Board: The good thing about winter is that spring is coming. Think Spring. Unfortunately, winter ain’t over yet. But we might just ease that thought a bit by looking ahead to our Spring, Summer and Fall events starting with the biggest.

On Sunday, May 29 Memorial Day Celebration, Boat Blessing, Veteran’s Commemoration with our local dignitaries and our own JROTC Color Guard from Central Regional High School and ending with our BSHCA Annual Beach Picnic.
Just a month or so later, we hold our Annual Member Meeting in June with presentation of scholarship awards followed by;
The Annual 3 Day Boat Trip to Atlantic City on July 8,9,10.
And on Thursday, July 21 we hold our very 1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament at Cedar Creek Golf Course.
A month later we hold our annual Garage Sale in August and
Our Annual Food Drive for the needy in November.

Membership

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament is a major undertaking with a great amount of detail that must be addressed to make it a success. We are depending on you to gather your foursomes. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. The Committee, under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb are doing their part. Ken reports that 13 foursomes have already committed and more are on the way. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, www.berkleyshores.org, to secure their foursome. Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

Snow Shoveling (Repeat)

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

February 9, 2016

Membership

Our Membership Chairman and 1st VP Ken Gerb, reports that we are getting closer to that 100% mark. We have surpassed the 2014/15 mark for new members, with 26 new member applications received thus far . We continue to send out information to non-member residents in Berkeley Shores with applications and brochures for those wishing to join us. Please do your part in speaking for and promoting BSHCA.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament is a major undertaking with a great amount of detail that must be addressed to make it a success. We are depending on you to gather your foursomes. Talk to your friends and relatives about joining us. The Committee, under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb are doing their part. Ken reports “several foursomes have already been assembled and more are committing. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, www.berkleyshores.org, to secure their foursome. Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

2016 "One Sweet Day" Annual Boat Outing to Atlantic City

We are excited to be returning to Atlantic City and the folks over at Farley State Marina at the Golden Nugget are thrilled to have us back. Beginning this year we are limiting this trip strictly for BSHCA members. Those wanting to join BSHCA can find a membership application online, www.berkleyshores.org, All paid BSHCA members will enjoy the special negotiated group slip rate, will receive custom credentials to the lavish Friday night “TABLE OF THE GODS” buffet, and will receive complimentary T shirts for Captain and crew.

Here are the vitals...

Date: Friday, July 8, 2016 - Sunday July 10, 2016
Place: Farley State Marina, Golden Nugget Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ

Visit our "One Sweet Day" webpage for all the information!

Questions? Contact 1st VP ,Ken Gerb - members@berkeleyshores.org

Snow Shoveling

Several members have contacted us during the week inquiring about snow shoveling of their walks and driveways. Many of our members are not up to the task for various reasons. BSHCA is not in a position to recommend people who provide snow shoveling services. However, if anyone of our members knows of individuals who provide such services, please encourage them to place an ad in our web site. In this manner we can then direct them to our paid ads in the web site and they can select from whomever is advertising. Our 2nd VP, Bob Nunn, handles ads. He can be contacted through the web site, berkeleyshores.org. In addition, if you are in need of snow shoveling we encourage you to prepare ahead of time by scheduling a vendor in the event of snow. Remember to move your cars off the street to allow for more efficient snow plowing by the township.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

February 1, 2016

Our Weekend Winter Storm

We hope all survived the snow storm in good shape and by now, are shoveled out. South Jersey was not so lucky this time, with some commenting that the water and flooding mirrored Sandy in some parts of the southern shore area.

Membership

Our Membership Chairman and 1st VP Ken Gerb, reports that we are slowly approaching that 100% mark. Our new member count is approaching 30 so far. We are sending out information to non-member residents in Berkeley Shores with applications and brochures for those wishing to join us. Please do your part in speaking for and promoting BSHCA.
1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016
The Golf Tournament is a major undertaking with a great amount of detail that must be addressed to make it a success. The Committee, under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb is moving along nicely. All are doing their part. Ken reports “several foursomes have already been assembled and more are committing. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, www.berkleyshores.org, to secure their foursome. Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge at Good Luck Point

The refuge accounts for more than 200 acres of marshland along Bayview Avenue from Bayville to Ocean Gate. It is recognized by some 322 poles erected by AT&T for communication purposes, long abandoned for more modern and effective means of communication. Over the years and from time to time, the status of the poles were questioned. The answers were always the same. The poles could not be removed due to the possibility of creosote contamination into the bay. It now appears that it is no longer a major concern and as a result, the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will provide the necessary funding to remove the poles with the exception of those supporting osprey nests. The poles will not be pulled out since the holes that are left would disturb the marsh. Instead, they will be cut off at their base. The project is scheduled to begin during the springtime of this year. The USFWS will welcome public comment until February 12, 2016. Written comments can be submitted to:
US Fish & Wildlife Service, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
% Rebecca Reeves
PO Box 72, Oceanville, NJ 08231 or
Email: forsythe@fws.gov

SCAMS

It has been reported that residents in Ocean County have been receiving telephone calls from people introducing themselves as agents of the US Internal Revenue Service. They go on to say that additional taxes are owed and if the debt is not satisfied, legal action will be taken immediately by the federal government to collect owed monies. To avoid such action the caller asks for personal information such as bank savings and checking account numbers and possibly social security numbers. The Internal Revenue Service never attempts to collect for taxes in arrears over the phone. They communicate through US Mail. Do not respond with any information of this sort if you are contacted.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

January 2016

January 21, 2016

Major Weekend Winter Storm (from The National Weather Service)

While much of New Jersey braces for significant snowfall this weekend, Jersey Shore communities are facing the potential for serious coastal flooding.

The incoming nor’easter, which is packing winds of at least 50 mph, has the potential to cause major coastal flooding, particularly around Saturday morning’s high tide, according to the forecast discussion of the National Weather Service issued Wednesday afternoon.

Wave heights are forecast to be as much as 20 feet during the storm. That, combined with a full moon high tide and northeast winds that may gust to as much as 60 mph driving water onshore, could result in major flooding, forecasters said.

The full moon arrives officially at 8:43 p.m. Saturday, about 90 minutes after the Saturday evening high tide at 7:19 p.m. at Barnegat Inlet. But the full moon’s influence on the tides will be felt all weekend.

Forecasters are predicting the Saturday morning high tide, which arrives between 6 and 7 a.m. on the oceanfront from Sandy Hook to Barnegat Inlet, will have the highest potential for major flooding, particularly in Ocean County. The service says major flooding occurs at 8 feet or more above mean lower low water -- the average height of the lowest tide recorded at a tide station, according to the National Ocean Service.

Flooding begins at just over 6 feet in Ocean County’s back bays, according to the service.

The full moon high tide combined with wind-driven waves -- wave heights are forecast to be as much as 20 feet during the storm, and northeast winds that may gust to as much as 60 mph will drive water onshore and trap it there, they said. A storm surge of as much as 5 feet on top of the high tide could occur, according to the forecast discussion.

That could result in significant flooding, among the worst storms seen at the Shore, though forecasters do not believe it will reach the levels of Superstorm Sandy. It could potentially reach the level of the five worst, however, forecasters say.

Residents who live along the western edges of the bays will need to be alert as the morning progresses, because high tides in the back bays are typically 4 to 5 hours after the high tides on the oceanfront.

First Major Winter Storm of the Season

From Mayor Carmen Amato:

FROM THE DIVISION OF STREETS AND ROADS:
SNOW PLOW AND SALTING PROCEDURES

At the start of a snow storm, salt and sanding vehicles are dispatched in Berkeley Township. Major roadways are usually done first, followed by secondary roadways. After the snow has stopped and it has been determined that accumulations have exceeded 5”, the Township will begin to snow plow. The Township will utilize approximately 70 pieces of Township equipment and approximately 30 contracted loaders for cul-de-sacs. All streets are opened curb to curb to insure the drains are opened. Sanding and salting operations continue as needed.

Each snowplow vehicle has been assigned a section to plow and will remain in that section until all roadways have been sufficiently cleaned. This may require the snowplow vehicle to make multiple passes on each street. Township forces will be plowing each street from curb to curb during each snowfall. On occasion, due to the lack of areas between the sidewalk and curb, sidewalks and driveway aprons may become covered with snow that falls off the snowplow blade. Township forces will not remove snow from any sidewalk or driveway apron in these instances. We regret this unfortunate inconvenience. At no time is snow to be disposed of into the street from the property, parking lots, driveways and sidewalks. All snow blowers should be directed to blow snow back onto the property.

After the streets are plowed and salted, snow deposited back into the roadway creates hazardous situations, causes additional plowing of the streets and blocking of parked vehicles and driveways after the original cleanup. Summonses could be issued for non-compliance. We want to thank everyone for complying with these requests and following the ordinances, rules and regulations of the Township of Berkeley. Any questions on these policies and procedures, Call Steven J. Seiler, Principal Public Works Manager At: 732-349-4616 or 732-341-1022. Or you can Email: btpwsec@twp.berkeley.nj.us

Berkeley Township officials have told residents of low-lying streets that flood frequently that they can park vehicles at Central Regional Middle School.

Membership

We are at 93% with 23 new members. Our recent mailing to NON MEMBERS has resulted in 6 new members!! Let’s keep it going to reach our membership goal for 2016 of 800. You can assist by speaking positively of BSHCA to neighbors.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament Committee under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb is moving along nicely, Ken reports “several foursomes have already been assembled and more are committing. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, berkeleyshores.org/golf.html, to secure their foursome. Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA

January 11, 2016

Welcome to January 2016

2016 will welcome our 31st year as a Civic Organization (BSHCA) established in 1985 to heighten awareness of our waterfront community. Since that time we have seen many changes and improvements to our fragile environment, encouraged by the dedication and attention paid by former presidents, their executive boards and member volunteers of Berkeley Shores. Through their efforts over the past years we have joined together to resolve issues from beautification and cleanups, to beach replenishment and lagoon dredging, to lagoon/bay water quality issues, development concerns and so much more. We have joined together as neighbors and friends to reclaim our waterfront and our properties from the devastation of the most damaging storm in our history, Sandy. Our BSHCA Annual Garage sale is a popular event, anticipated by so many. Aside from taking care of business in our own immediate area, we have not forgotten the greater community of Bayville. Our annual Food Drive, in cooperation with St. Barnabas Parish, provides Thanksgiving meals to scores of families less fortunate. Our annual $750 scholarship awards, increased from 2 to 3 for 2016, recognizes the hard work and diligence of outstanding students within our organization and to outstanding students outside of our waterfront community. Our Memorial/Veterans Day Commemoration and Beach Picnic, welcoming members and residents alike, to the upcoming summer season. And new for this year, our first Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, hopefully to be enjoyed by members, friends and family for future years. If you are a golfer, please don’t miss this tournament. Sign up through our web site, berkeleyshores.org. We have much to be proud, but without your membership and recognition of the uniqueness of our environment, Berkeley Shores would not be the same. We have made a difference and we will continue to do so in the coming months and years.
Our environment continues to evolve and our weather patterns are changing. Our climatologists and scientists speak of climate change and increasing water levels along with possibly more frequent storms. We must develop a heightened awareness of these factors and make sure we do all we can to encourage the proper steps to protecting our area. The purpose of our newsletters is to keep you informed, at the same time to keep environmental changes in perspective.

Membership

Our 1st VP and Membership Director, Ken Gerb, has started a new membership recruitment drive with a selective initial mailing sent out 10 days ago. We are hopeful that this action will result in an increase in our rolls. You can assist by speaking positively of BSHCA to neighbors.

1st Annual BSHCA Golf Tournament, Cedar Creek GC, Bayville, July 21, 2016

The Golf Tournament Committee under the leadership of 1st VP Ken Gerb is moving along nicely, Ken reports “several foursomes have already been assembled and more are committing. Those wanting to join this fun day at the golf course should go online, www.berkleyshores.org, to secure their foursome. Cedar Creek is imposing a maximum amount of players …so sign up fast.” Ken also said “Please consider becoming a sponsor to show your support and to help defray costs. Individual Hole Sponsorship begins as low as $25. All details of the various sponsorship opportunities are also on our website. Each team requires one BSHCA member. Tournament cost is $75 per player, which includes Green Fees, Cart, Continental Breakfast and Catered Luncheon, Awards, Door Prizes and more.

4th Annual "ONE SWEET DAY" boat trip to Atlantic City

We are excited to be going back to Atlantic City, The date has been set: July 8 ~ 11, 2016. Interested? Details are posted on the BSHCA website: www.berkeleyshores.org., or contact Ken Gerb. 1st VP.

Fred Bekiarian, President, BSHCA