The benefits of participating in the martial arts include developing discipline and coordination, improving one’s self-esteem, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  The martial arts are not meant to be violent or to purposely inflict bodily harm upon others.  Although they may be portrayed this way in movies and on television, Dr. Kum Sung, of Kum Sung Martial Arts in Toms River, feels this is not an accurate depiction of martial arts.  He strongly believes that the mass media is severely tarnishing the martial arts’ image.

“It is not meant to hurt or disrespect others, but because of the media, martial arts is being taught as a way to fight,” says Dr. Sung who has studied a variety of martial arts forms ranging from Chinese to Japanese style for over 50 years.  “I have been involved with martial arts all my life and never thought it would be so misunderstood.   For years, Asians have been using martial arts as a way to improve one’s health.  Practicing martial arts prevents physical injuries and can help children who may lack focus.  I teach traditional martial arts which is different than today’s modern martial arts.  The main purpose of traditional martial arts is to promote a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.  Martial arts can also help prevent injuries and helps to preserve balance and coordination.  In contrast, modern martial arts is very dangerous and violent and is being glorified in the entertainment industry.  Young people are attracted to the violence, but this is wrong.  People don’t understand martial arts because they think it is television entertainment wrestling.  Then, the kids see that type of behavior and want to imitate it by choking each other out which can cause death.”

While the media has played a significant role in the misunderstanding of the sport, a lack of qualified instructors is also part of the problem.  Dr. Sung feels that today’s martial arts teachers do not have the experience and necessary certification to understand and teach the true meaning of the sport.

“Instructors always had to be a high black belt, but now it seems that anyone can open a martial arts school without the proper qualifications,” says Dr. Sung who majored in child psychology and is the highest Martial Arts Grandmaster in the area with over 47 years of experience.  “In order to be a respected martial arts instructor, you need to have a certain degree of education and training.  Many instructors are not properly qualified to teach martial arts today.  I was once proud to say that I teach martial arts, but now I am embarrassed by the way martial arts is being taught.  It is very frustrating for me.  I have grown up with this sport and I am extremely upset about how it is changing.  Modern martial arts is more harmful than beneficial.”
Though Dr. Sung can’t personally alter the image of martial arts throughout the country or monitor the way it is being taught, he is doing his best to preserve traditional martial arts.   The Master Kum Sung Martial Arts System is a balanced system of traditional martial arts blended with modern techniques, ancient philosophies, and modern psychology.   A strong emphasis is placed on positive thinking.  Students in the Kum Sung program are encouraged to do their very best, to see rewards in life, and to overcome negative thoughts and actions.   Designed to accommodate students of all levels and ages, this unique system emphasizes self-defense, positive-reinforcement psychology, physical fitness, and coordination.   Dr. Sung strongly believes that students of the Master Kum Sung Martial Arts System will develop not only into well-rounded martial artists, but secure, positive, self-confident, and emotionally and physically fit people.

Traditional martial arts offer many benefits, but the sport has seen a decrease in participants during recent years.  Dr. Sung directly attributes this to a slow economy.  During difficult financial times, families can be quick to omit certain activities from their children’s schedules.  Dr.  Sung firmly believes that this is detrimental to the kids.

“During this tough economy, parents tend to cut back on their children’s activities,” says Dr. Sung, who has instructed police academies, special law enforcement and military agencies, national martial arts champions and many recognizable martial artists. “But this is the wrong thing to do.  If they are home after school with nothing to do, they are more likely to get into mischief and then imitate the violence they see on television.  They definitely need an organized and structured activity.  I feel so strongly about this that I decided to bring my prices down to what they were thirty years ago.  This way, parents don’t have to cut back and take away the things that the kids enjoy.”

What sets Kum Sung apart from other martial arts studios is that the instructors genuinely care about the students’ mental health.  Once parents decide to enroll their children in a martial arts program, Dr. Sung says there are many benefits.   In addition to improving a child’s physical health, Dr. Sung says the instructors work to support the children in creating a positive way of thinking.

“So many parents are working full-time today, and are not home during the after-school hours,” says Dr. Sung, who has been featured on the cover of many national and international Martial Art magazines and has been the subject of several award winning photographs at national exhibitions.  “When the children are home alone, there is no social communication with the child.  The child needs to have constant attention and someone needs to be aware of their behavior.  We are able to provide that for the children.  We are educating them emotionally.  With this type of background, they will then have the confidence to become healthy and successful adults.”

During class sessions, children are also encouraged to talk about whatever is on their minds.  Kum Sung believes in open communication and wants children to feel comfortable opening up to the instructors about whatever may be bothering them.

“Every class has time allowed for kids to discuss their feelings and what they like or don’t like,” says Dr. Sung who is certified by the World Tae Kwon Do Federation, which determines Olympic eligibility in the United States.  “We have one-on-one relationships with all of the children.  We also help children who may be experiencing behavior problems and are out of control with their parents or at school.  Some of the children battle with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), so we get a lot of referrals from doctors who are looking to us as a way to help the children gain some control and focus.”

In the children’s classes, maintaining focus and learning discipline are two of the major skills which are addressed.  Instructors will also teach balance, coordination, self-esteem, goal-setting, memory improvement, self-defense, and concentration.  In addition, students are taught self-defense with control, not aggression, which is a key factor.  They are also taught stranger awareness as well as rolling which helps prevent sprains and broken bones.  While many martial arts schools just teach a basic way of doing a technique, Kum Sung teaches with more attention to detail for maximum effectiveness and safety.  They also constantly refine and improve on students’ techniques.   Most importantly, all classes are taught in a fun and positive environment.  During report card time, Dr. Sung asks all of his students to bring in their report cards so that he can monitor their academic accomplishments as well.

The teenage classes, for students between ages 12 and 18, emphasize self-discipline and self-respect both for themselves and for others.  The students learn how to relieve stress which is a great defense mechanism during the tumultuous teenage years.  Good habits are strongly encouraged in a nurturing and positive environment.  At this age, there is an emphasis on speed, grace, and strength.  Students are also taught self-awareness, healing, and meditation.

Adult classes differ greatly from all other age categories. Although everyone in the group is taught the same kicks, punches, weapons and forms, they are taught in a manner that will best benefit the individual. Kum Sung’s adult programs are designed to fit a student’s individual needs, interests, and health.  Adult classes specialize in: exercises for the body and mind, inner peace and harmony, the Asian culture and language, philosophy, and weight control.  The instructors at Kum Sung carefully monitor these classes to ensure that adult participants do not suffer any unnecessary injuries causing lost time from work.  The purpose of the classes is to allow adults an opportunity to improve their physical and mental well-being, and to make their health a priority, which may not have been possible earlier in their lives.

Kum Sung has various locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties.  Kum Sung Headquarters are located on Hooper Avenue in Toms River.  The facility includes an 8,000 square foot Martial Arts Center, which has more than 600 members, and a 16,000 square foot complete Fitness Center, which has more than 3,000 members.  There are also facilities in Brick, Manahawkin, Long Branch, Howell, Lanoka Harbor, and Middletown. Their comprehensive website, kumsungkarate.com, includes information about future events, martial arts instructors, birthday parties, special offers, and Kum Sung’s summer camp.  Your family can also make an appointment online to take a tour of one of the facilities and to meet the instructors in person.  The website also offers videos of martial arts classes online and many photographs of students in action.

Despite hearing conflicting opinions about traditional versus modern martial arts, Dr. Sung feels confident and proud of the school he has maintained for over thirty years.  Kum Sung Martial Arts has built a reputation from decades of listening to the public’s requests and helping people achieve new levels of confidence and capability.  He knows that he is providing his students with a positive, traditional martial arts education.  When you consider that Dr. Sung has now been teaching three generations of students, it is obvious that the families he serves truly respect his work.

“I have had some people come up to me and say, ‘When I was a child, I learned from you.  Then, I brought my children, and now I’m bringing my grandkids to you,’” says Dr. Sung.  “That is a very rewarding feeling.”

Kum Sung Martial Arts is much more than just punching and kicking.  It is a system that helps build confidence, coordination, and inner peace and opens up the door to a positive attitude.   The overall theme of Kum Sung Martial Arts is to provide children with a proper education.  In addition to martial arts, the family also runs Sung Star Academy which is for children ages six weeks to five-years-old.  There are state certified teachers in every classroom with registered nurses on staff to take care of your little ones, if necessary.  The directors of the school all have the highest degrees of education.  If you are interested in learning more about Kum Sung Karate, call 732-341-8800, or visit their website at kumsungkarate.com.  You can even send your questions via email at info@kumsungkarate.com.

Martial Arts schools have grown in numbers over the years.  They are in high demand for children, teenagers and adults.  Some choose a school on the recommendation of a neighbor or friend, it’s close to home or it is inexpensive.  The State of New Jersey mandates no regulation on operating or teaching martial arts.  Hence, the main reason there are so many schools to choose from in a small area.  There are many forms of Martial Arts being taught and the consumer needs to investigate when choosing a school for themselves or their children.  Before registering for martial arts instruction, be aware of what is being taught in the class and what is being said to young children when parents are not around.  It is imperative you know instructors have proper credentials and are knowledgeable in teaching Martial Arts.  Observing classes and instructors, getting recommendations, and interviewing owners is what will aid in the success of learning the appropriate use and correct techniques in martial arts.

An issue that has exploded over the past few months is Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).  MMA is a full contact sport using different fighting techniques from boxing to martial arts and everything in between.  It is performed in a cage-like octagon ring with two opponents and a referee.  It has been described as a no holds barred fighting frenzy.  Since this barbaric entertainment emerged and gained rapid popularity, additional safety rules have been incorporated.  However, MMA takes fighting to a whole new level.  Like boxing, the objective is to knock out your opponent.    Fighters throw each other to the ground and grab hold to make their opponent immobile.  Submission holds gain an advantage since one of the fighters is physically impaired to move.  The other fighter pummels away at the head or body to achieve a severely beaten state even unconsciousness.

This is the new frenzy surrounding Martial Arts.  This type of fighting is affecting children, teenagers and young adults to learn this type of martial arts.  It is being taught on computers; teaching viewers to physically abuse and quite possibly harm themselves and others by mimicking what they see on websites and television.  Welcome to the new wild phenomena of Mixed Martial Arts.

MMA combines grappling, jiu-jitsu and traditional martial arts to overtake an opponent.   Grappling is a lot like wrestling with certain holds, sweeps and throws.  The WWF entertainment factor becomes reality in an MMA cage.  Striking your opponent with your fist or elbow is perfectly legal while you have them pinned to the ground in a choke hold.  Lifting and throwing down your competitor to perform a clinch hold and punching their face or body is also allowed.   Jiu-jitsu is a type of martial arts that teaches choking, submission holds and potentially breaking of bones.  A slightly dazed opponent after a choking move is less likely to offer any resistance.  Immobilizing a fighter to win could lead to unconsciousness, which may or may not be allowed, but is performed.

A 35-year-old MMA fighter, Sam Vasquez, died in Houston, TX on November 30, 2007.  He was hospitalized when he collapsed after being knocked out in the 3rd round of an MMA fight a month earlier.  Doctors performed two surgeries to remove blood clots from his brain.  After the second surgery, he had a stroke and died.    This is the kind of entertainment people of all ages are watching and imitating.

Another instructor in Virginia who teaches Mixed Martial Arts to children kicked an 11-year-old student over 200 times in the abdomen.  This was a challenge to see how many kicks the child could take before falling over.  The child’s parents were not present at the time and did not witness this act.  Parents need to be present at all times when their children are learning karate, jiu-jitsu, tae kwon do or any form of martial arts.  Question instructors and owners on abusive moves and potential dangers you see.

Martial Arts is a precise form of self-defense.  Instructors teach where to hit and how to hit properly without injuring yourself.  Breaking a wooden board the wrong way could fracture or break a hand.  Learning the skill of how to correctly hold your hand while breaking a board allows students the ability to break thicker pieces of wood, as they get older and stronger.  Mastering Martial Arts takes years of practice and teachings.  Utilizing the safety of the techniques ensures no one gets hurt while building character, strength and gaining knowledge.

Parents need to be vigilant that the martial arts being taught to their children, or themselves, is safe.    Schools in the area are beginning to teach a Mixed Martial Arts class andparents may not even be aware there children are learning something dangerous.  Kum Sung stresses safety and proper technique when teaching their students.  No student moves to the next level unless they are proficient in their abilities.  Learning the correct way of hitting, kicking, or breaking a wooden board is what Dr. Sung and his instructors at Kum Sung have mastered over the years.  When locating a Martial Arts school, investigate what they are teaching, how students learn and the credentials of the staff interacting with you or your children.  Dr. Sung describes his Martial Arts teachings as not just a hobby, but a way of life.  This is my heritage and culture this is the same sentiment shared by martial arts masters like Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan and Jet Li.  Ensure you can view all classes and know what your children are doing in the class.  Martial Arts is a safe, physically fit activity that promotes self-esteem and success throughout all aspects of life.  Visit kumsungkarate.com or call and speak to Dr. Sung or one of the instructors.  Be aware of what they will and are actually learning.

Breakwater Beach

Casino Pier, Seaside Heights, NJ

732-793-6488

Cenral Shore region

Starting with their new Toddler Area, it is ideal for the smallest member of any family. With safe, soft play throughout, your little one will slide and have a splashtacular good time.

They have something for everyone. Their Family Play Section is a totally interactive multi-level area for everyone from 3 to 103. With their water slides you will find a different experience with each twist and turn. Also, with hundreds of interactive play elements and dancing fountains you will not stay dry for long. All while having fun with your family and creating life long memories. Watch Out for the Tipping Troller, you may get thousands of gallons of water dumped on you (hopefully there won’t be any sharks). If after playing you are feeling a little chilly, jump into one of 2 new Hot Springs that will easily fit 20 people each.

For the brave at heart, test their Zero – Gravity Racer. This 6 Lane Racing Slide lets you compete against others as you plummet on a mat to the finish line. Forget relaxing in our LazyCrazy River … with cannons being shot off, bubbles coming from every direction and depth charges shooting you with water; you will never know what will be around the next curve. If you do want to relax, you can recline in one of our many lounge chairs throughout the park. Our other amenities include, bathrooms, lockers, changing areas, food
concession, and a gift shop for all your needs. As always, trained lifeguards are on duty to safely monitor all water activities.

This is only the beginning of a multi-year renovation to this new water park. Next year even more and exciting attractions will be added to what will be “The Best Water Park, On The Jersey Shore”

What’s New

Enjoy your day in your own private cabana where you can sit, relax, and take in the sun! Each cabana features 2 chaise lounge chairs, 2 beach-style chairs, 4 large bottles of water, a small locker rental, as well as food & beverage service right to you.

Cabanas are available for rent on a first come/first serve basis. Because of demand, we encourage advance reservations.

2010 Cabana Pricing

Cabana (all day) = $85 plus tax
Cabana (3 hour) = $60 plus tax

Please note that waterpark admission is NOT included with Cabana Rental. Admission into the waterpark is a separate charge. If you rent a cabana for the day, your admission wristbands must be valid for the entire day. Food, drink and gratuities are not included in cabana rental fee.

CoCo Key

Indoor Water Park

Mt. Laurel Marriott, 915 Route 73, Mount Laurel NJ

856-234-7300

Southern NJ

CoCo Key Water Resort, New Jersey’s ultimate indoor water park is located at the Mt. Laurel Marriott. CoCo Key Water Resort is an indoor water park. They have a  relaxing adventure river to  an incredible 40-foot slides, interactive play area, indoor/outdoor spa, state of the art arcade ! Wouldn’t it be great to be able to get away to the tropical islands any time you want without having to leave New Jersey? Now you can, at CoCo Key Water Resort, New Jersey’s Newest & Largest Indoor Water Resort.  CoCo Key combines the relaxation and enchantment of the islands with the wild excitement of a 55,000-sq. ft. indoor water park. Every day is a bright, sunny 84 degrees at CoCo Key, featuring a selection of signature attractions including:

CoCo Key Water Resort is seconds away from exit 4 of the NJ Turnpike, just 12 miles outside Philadelphia and minutes away from Adventure Aquarium and Cherry Hill Mall.

Hurricane Harbor

537 Monmouth Rd, Route 537, Jackson, NJ
732-928-1821

Central NJ

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is conveniently located in Jackson, New Jersey.

Soak up the sun at the one of America’s best water parks — Six Flags Hurricane Harbor! This tropical island paradise offers a million-gallon wave pool, one of the world’s longest lazy rivers, nearly 20 water slides and a massive water playground for wet and wild fun!

What’s New

Tot Tornado whirlwind.  The Tornado, an enormous funnel-shaped water attraction, will offer guests the ultimate in tubing thrills all summer long when it opens May 29.

This exciting new water ride will blast thrill seekers down a 135-foot long vortex tunnel and into a 60-foot wide funnel.  During the journey, guests will blast into the eye of the storm, swishing from side to side by more than 5,000 gallons of water before being released into a calm and refreshing catch pool. Families can enjoy Tornado together in specially-designed, cloverleaf-shaped tubes that seat four.  Those not brave enough to take on this new thrilling adventure can ride out the storm from the observation platform which will feature a spectacular view of all the action.  The Tornado will touch down between the water park’s tube slides “Bada Bing, Bada Bang, Bada Boom!” and the speed slide complex “Jurahnimo, Cannonball & Wahini Falls.”

The Tornado will join a host of thrilling Hurricane Harbor rides and attractions including an enormous half million gallon wave pool, one of the country’s longest “lazy rivers,” a massive, two-story family water playground and nearly 20 high-speed thrill slides.

“We are excited to add a new dimension of thrills to our water park,” said Mark Kane, park president of Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor.  “The Tornado’s innovative shape and enormous size will allow families and friends to experience the ultimate in non-traditional tubing, together.”

Sahara Sams

Indoor Water Park

535 N. Route 73, West Berlin, NJ

856-767-7580

Southern NJ

Imagine traversing a cargo rope obstacle course suspended over a rain forest lagoon, splashing your way through a 410 foot adventure river ride, having 1,000 gallons of water unexpectedly rain down from above, navigating through a wild maze of twisting and turning rapids with your family. Imagine experiencing it all indoors.
Welcome to Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park — New Jersey’s only freestanding Indoor Water Park and state of art arcade.

Sahara Sam’s is an innovative entertainment and activity experience that is a premier family attraction located in southern New Jersey just minutes from Philadelphia and accessible by major highways and bridges in New Jersey and the Philadelphia region. The $23 million venue offers nearly 58,000 square feet of water rides, interactive games, dining, party rooms and much more. Located in West Berlin NJ on a 13-acre parcel along Route 73, Sahara Sam’s represents the next step in providing affordable familydestination fun.

Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park features a wide array of exhilarating, state-of-the-art water rides and attractions, interactive games, and great ticket and party packages.

RETRACTABLE ROOF: One of the most unique aspects of Sahara Sam’s is its one-of-a-kind retractable roof, which opens up to let the outdoors in on sunny days.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Sahara Sam’s remains a warm 84 degrees of low humidity weather all year long thanks to a state-of-the-art temperature control system.

Pirates Cove- Land Of Make Believe

354 Great Meadows Road – Rt. 611, Hope, NJ
908-459-9000

Northwest NJ

For 56 years, the Land of Make Believe has been entertaining families from the tri-state area. Family favorites include our million dollar Action River Ride, a Roller Coaster, Buccaneer Pirate & Wading Pool, Tilt-A-Whirl, Civil War Locomotive, Hayride, Old McDonald’s Farm, Middle-Earth Theater, “Black Hole” #1 Rated Waterslide, Grand Carousel, Sidewinder, Pirates Fort, Pirates Cannonball, the Brand New Pirate’s Plunge, Jump Around Frog and Lots, Lots More.

As New Jersey’s Premiere Family Amusement & WaterPark, the Land of Make Believe features Safe and Wholesome recreation, entertainment and activities for real families like yours. You’ll find Exciting Rides, Shows, Attractions, Games, WaterPark, and Picnic Area on over 30 acres. The Land of Make Believe and Pirate’s Cove has been designed exclusively for an action-packed day of special family fun for parents and their children.

The Land of Make Believe is located in northwest New Jersey, 60 miles west of New York City, and 10 miles east of the Delaware River just off Route 80, exit 12. Nestled in the foothills of the famous Jenny Jump Mountains and State Park, the Land of Make Believe is a landmark in the historic town of Hope. Only one hour from the Lincoln Tunnel or George Washington Bridge, 90 minutes from Philadelphia or Scranton, PA.

Free Parking, Free Picnic Area and Free Water Park included with paid admission!

What’s New

Pirate’s Plunge,

Escape the pirates in this adventurous body slide. 42″ minimum height requirement to ride alone. Children under 36″ must ride w/adult.

New Jersey’s First Indoor Waterpark!

Splash Zone

3500 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-729-5600

Southern NJ

Mixing adrenaline-pumping thrills with family-style fun is our specialty. With more than 16 attractions, Splash Zone Water Park offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Adventure seekers can find super soaking thrills riding the white water rapids of The Beast of The East, the only 6-person raft ride on the east coast. Or roar through total darkness on The Midnight Run, a twisting, turning enclosed tube slide. Speed fans will enjoy testing their skills while soaring down the Speed Dominator. Giggle Bay offers an interactive water playground featuring our famous 1000-gallon bucket of water that crashes down, drenching everyone in its path. And the smallest water park fans can splash in Zoe Zone, a tiny tykes play area featuring a shallow pool of water, fountains, and soft play equipment. Everyone in the family can enjoy slides, body flumes, water blasters, or a meandering ride through the park on an inner tube in Adventure River. And when you’re not getting drenched in the water, Splash Zone offers sunbathing areas, a picnic facility and mouthwatering food at the Zone GrillFree Parking!

Mountain Creek

200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ

973-864-8444

Northern NJ

Mountain Creek Water Park in Northern NJ .The Park offers a variety of water-based activities for all ages and all swim levels.  Height restrictions are posted for all attractions and enforced.  Minors (anyone under the age of 18) must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. The parent/guardian is solely responsible for supervision of their minors. The park does not assume any responsibility or liability for unattended minors. The park cannot accept any responsibility for unattended minors. Children are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

Only you know your own, your child’s, or anyone you are supervising level of swimming skills.  We strongly recommend all Guests under 48″ or who are weak or non-swimmers wear Coast Guard approved lifejackets where appropriate. In the wave pool, all guests under 48″ are REQUIRED to wear a lifejacket and be accompanied by an adult.  We insist that parents keep their children within arms reach for their close supervision on all water activities. Life Jackets are available Free Of Charge at Guest Information located inside the park.  When in doubt, wear a life jacket!

What’s New

Mountain Creek has a whole new twist on coming down the mountain. Introducing the Alpine Pipeline, a high-flying, two person Alpine express that goes from daylight to darkness in the blink of an eye. Come ride the new Alpine Pipeline and discover for yourself the unparalleled sensation of screamin’ down the mountain like a comet through a carwash.  It’s definitely NOT for wimps.

Keansburg Runaway Rapids

275 Beachway Ave, Keansburg, NJ
732-495-1400 Right across the street and just a few steps from The Keansburg Amusement Park is Runaway Rapids Water Park. You can purchase a two park pass so you can go to the waterpark or Amusement Park all day. Runaway Rapids has dozens of rides and interactive attractions. There is also a very nice sunbathing area surrounding the play pool areas. The park has been recently cleaned up a bit and some all  new features have been added to the waterpark.

Raging Waters-Morey’s piers

Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-522-3900

Southern NJ

Enjoy the thrills at Raging Waters Waterpark in Mariner’s Landing Amusement Pier located on Schellenger Ave. in Wildwood, NJ.  Morey’s Piers original beachfront waterpark offers the thrills and the fun things to do that you and your family have come to love on your family beach vacation.  Attractions include:

• Waterpark rides and waterpark attractions for all ages
• Two interactive children’s play areas
• Picnic facility for group outings
• Wreckers beach grille
• Raging Waters waterpark locker shop
• Central location – a great pier!

Ocean Oasis – Morey’s piers

Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-522-3900

Southern NJ

Ocean front water park. Kids of all ages will love Bonsai Beach, a 10,000 square foot interactive water play area. Several fun water slides the older kids will enjoy, also. While the kids enjoy the great rides, mom and dad can relax in the all new resort-themed atmosphere, which features include family cabanas and huts, hammocks, massage therapy, and plenty more! Beach Grille and Oasis Cafe are open all day to satisfy the entire family.

Clementon Splash World

114 Berlin Road, Clementon, NJ

856-783-0263

Central NJ

Cool off with over 13,000 square feet of splashing, sliding, drenching, beat-the-heat fun. This Polynesian-themed adventure includes 8 slides, 10 different play platforms and more than 125 sprays, jets, bubbles, streams, squirts, wheels and waterfalls. And high atop the 50-foot tall structure sits the big Kahuna himself—with a giant water bucket that dumps more than 422 gallons of water on the unsuspecting islanders below. Children under 6 years of age must have adult supervision. Some slides have a minimum of 36 inches, others have a minimum of 40 inches.

Thundering Surf Waterpark

8th Street & Bay Ave. Beach Haven (LBI), NJ

609-492-0869

Central Shore Region

Thundering Surf Water Park is definitely the place to spend a few hours with the entire family! We are located in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island, NJ. We have something for all ages! Toddlers can play in our BRAND NEW Kiddie Play Area called “Cowabunga Beach”. This area is designed specifically for ages 9 months to 5 years old. Our new “Dancing Fountains” are something everyone will love! Take some great pictures of your children trying to catch the fountains as they jump and dance around the kiddie area! Our 6 Giant Waterslides are designed for single and double tubes. Parents are able to slide together with a child! Experience our one-of-a-kind “Lazy Crazy River!” While the river is Lazy, cruise around with the current and relax. But don’t get too cozy…. when the river turns “Crazy”… be prepared as a small wave rolls through the river because you’re going to get wet! Along the river, parents and children can interact with others that are outside of the river with slap targets and super soaker water guns. So don’t think that just because you are standing on the interactive bridge that you are going to stay dry! And watch out for the “Giant Tipping Bucket” as you cruise around the river and under the bridge!

Come have some fun…. or just relax and sunbathe on our SunDeck located inside the waterpark so you are never too far from you children!

PLEASE  POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT ANY OF THESE FAMILY- FRIENDLY WATER PARKS. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR OPINIONS,TIPS AND INSIGHTS.

Dinosaurs once again roam the earth in a spectacular theatrical arena show, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular, based on the award-winning BBC Television Series. WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is now on tour in North America and will perform 12 performances at Madison Square Garden in New York. More than 3.1 million Americans have already seen the production since it opened in July 2007.

The show originated in Australia, where after years of planning, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS came to life at Sydney’s Acer Arena in January 2007.  The show proved itself such a sensation, that this North American tour was fast-tracked.  It began a short three months after completing its sold out engagements in Australia. Since that time, the show’s two companies have played to 4.4 million people worldwide and generated over $210 million dollars in overall ticket sales.

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is brought to North America by The Creature Production Company, headed by CEO Carmen Pavlovic.  Pavlovic said, “The BBC Series was a brilliant blend of special effects, escapism, excitement and information.  Our show brings together all of that, plus something extra -  it’s live!   In this production, seventeen roaring, snarling “live” dinosaurs mesmerize the audience – and are as awe-inspiring as when they first walked on earth.”

Pavlovic continued, “The dinosaurs are life-size, making the show so immense, it could only fit in arenas. It’s a $20 million arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality, which captivates young and old alike. With Walking with Dinosaurs, we really believe we have created a new genre in entertainment and we hope to continue to bring new product to arenas for years to come ”

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular has s been seen on “The Today Show,” Good Morning America,” “Live with Regis and Kelly,” and has been written about in Newsweek, The New York Times, the Christian Science Monitor and the Wall Street Journal. It was the subject of a Discovery Channel Really Big Things episode and a video clue category on Jeopardy.

more

Tim Haines, creator and producer of the original BBC series, which was seen by a worldwide audience of 700 million, serves as Project Consultant to WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular.  The series won six Emmy and three BAFTA Awards.

Ten species are represented from the entire 200 million year reign of the dinosaurs.  The show includes the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the terror of the ancient terrain, as well as the Plateosaurus and Liliensternus from the Triassic period, the Stegosaurus and Allosaurus from the Jurassic period and Torosaurus and Utahraptor from the awesome Cretaceous.  The largest of them, the Brachiosaurus is 36 feet tall, and 56 feet from nose to tail.  It took a team of 50 – including engineers, fabricators, skin makers, artists and painters, and animatronic experts – a year to build the original production.

The show depicts the dinosaurs’ evolution, complete with the climatic and tectonic changes that took place, which led to the demise of many species.  With almost cinematic realism, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS has scenes of the interactions between dinosaurs, and the audience sees how carnivorous dinosaurs evolved to walk on two legs, and how the herbivores fended off their more agile predators.

The history of the world is played out with the splitting of the earth’s continents, and the transition from the arid desert of the Triassic period is given over to the lush green prairies and forces of the later Jurassic.  Oceans form, volcanoes erupt, a forest catches fire — all leading to the impact of the massive comet, which struck the earth, and forced the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Variety said, “The dinosaurs are stunning, life-size and faultlessly nimble. In act one, the beasts parade into the arena gnashing and cavorting as a safari-suited paleontologist describes their attributes … in the second half, the action cranks up, culminating in a spectacular clash as a T-Rex mom defends her baby from predators. Sonny Tilders’ triumphant creature design ensures ‘Walking With Dinosaurs’ is a truly spectacular spectacular. It is everything a dino-phile could want.”

The New York Times said that in this show dinosaurs make “a thundering comeback after 65 million years.”

Gloria Goodale of the Christian Science Monitor said, “When the dinosaurs start pouring out onto the stage, if you don’t have to stifle the natural flight response of any living breathing being, then it’s your pulse that needs checking.”

Newsweek called the show, “that rare entertainment beast that parents and kids can enjoy together.”

It took 50 artists and technicians one year to build the show. The 17 dinosaurs were originally “hatched” by Tilders, the head of creature design, in a Melbourne Docklands workshop big enough to park a 747. For the North American tour, the only building large enough to house rehearsals for the dinosaurs – some as large as 36 ft tall by 56 ft long, was the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center!

Artistic Director William May is known around the globe for co-producing shows with Malcolm Cooke for the past 30 years, including The Hobbit and The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.  He produced Marilyn An American Fable on Broadway and co-composed and wrote the musical Always for the West End.

Director Scott Faris directed Michael Crawford in EFX at MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, which at the time was the biggest stage production ever conceived, and was on the production team that created Siegfried & Roy at the Mirage Hotel.  Faris has directed Chicago the Musical in 16 countries around the world in over a dozen languages. Most recently he directed Bette Midler in her new Las Vegas show, The Showgirl Must Go On at Caesars Palace.

Faris said, “We take the audience on a journey back in time and show them how the dinosaurs might have actually looked in their prime – huge, sometimes frightening, sometimes comical monsters – that fought for survival every day of their lives.  Our dinosaurs move exactly like they are real — with all the roars, snorts and excitement that go with it.  The realism is mind-blowing!”

Sonny Tilders, who designed and built the creatures has been, for the past decade, one of the major creative forces of the high-tech world of animatronic puppetry for film and television.  He was one of the lead animatronic engineers for Jim Henson’s Creature workshop on the Farscape series, followed by work on Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, Peter Pan, Ghost Rider and The Chronicles of Narnia.

Tilders said, “Many of the technologies we are using on WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular are borrowed from film. The computer software and hardware we have developed is based on the systems used to control animatronic creatures in feature films.”

“To make it appear that these creatures are flesh and blood weighing six, eight or even 20 tons, we use a system called ‘muscle bags,’ made from stretch mesh fabric and filled with polystyrene balls, stretched across moving points on the body.  These contract and stretch in the same manner that muscle, fat, and skin does on real creatures.”

“The puppeteers use ‘voodoo rigs’ to make many of the dinosaurs move.  They are miniature versions of the dinosaurs with the same joints and range of movement as their life-sized counterparts.  The puppeteer manipulates the voodoo rig and these actions are interpreted by computer and transmitted by radio waves to make the hydraulic cylinders in the actual dinosaur replicate the action, with a driver hidden below the animal, helping to maneuver it around the arena.”  Suited puppeteer specialists, who are inside the creatures, operate five of the smaller dinosaurs.

Warner Brown wrote the script of WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular. He is an accomplished writer whose works include the book of the musical Flickers on Broadway, the screenplay of Nijinsky for Regent Entertainment, the musical The Black and White Ball, which features music by Cole Porter and The Truth About Light, written with composer Jimmy Roberts.  Other credits include a new version of Half A Sixpence for the West End in 2008, Garbo – The Musical with music by Jim Steinman and Michael Reed, playing in Europe, and the plays and musicals Scandal, The Biograph Girl, Six for Gold, Cinderella, Talullah for a Day and Dance for Life.

More

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular will perform 12 performances at Madison Square Garden in New York. The performance schedule is:

• Wednesday, July 21, 2010 – 3PM & 7PM
• Thursday, July 22, 2010 – 11AM & 7PM
• Friday, July 23, 2010 – 11AM & 7PM
• Saturday, July 23, 2010 – 11AM, 3PM & 7PM
• Sunday, July 25, 2010 – 11AM, 3PM & 7PM

Tickets for the general public are on sale NOW by calling 866.858.0008, online at www.thegarden.com/dinos or in-person at the Madison Square Garden Box Office. For groups, please call 212.465.6080. For more information, please visit www.dinosaurlive.com. Video of the show is available on our site under “Meet The Dinosaurs” tab in the middle of the front page.

Please find the list of the most popular places to view Fireworks this 4th of July. Nothing kicks of that feeling of Summer like exploding rays of light across the sky. I had the opportunity to view fireworks this Thursday(June 24th) at Jenkinson’s. There were a lot of families that sat on the beach or viewed the festivities from the boardwalk. I don’t know why I enjoy it so much, but it definetley reminds me of my childhood. I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy our countries indepenence with your loved ones.

Atlantic County

Atlantic City

July 4, 2010, 9 p.m. Borgata & Harrah’s (casinos) Marina District

This event is completely open to the public. Visitors bringing radios can even tune in to experience a display synchronized with music. As always, AC does it flashy!

Cape May County

Wildwood

July 4, 2010, 10 p.m. Boardwalk (Pine Avenue)

Fireworks happen each Friday this year during the summer shore season. However, the July 4 fireworks are extravagant, featuring a display costing over $26,000.00.

Ocean County

BARNEGAT LIGHT July 4
Parade beginning at 7 p.m. starting at 16th Street.
Awards and concert to follow at the bay dock area between 9th & 10th Street.
In case of rain, concert will be in the Firehouse Social Hall on 10th and Central Boulevard.
For further information contact 609-494-9196

BARNEGAT TOWNSHIP July 4
Independence Day Celebration and Concert – 7:30 p.m.
Municipal Dock
Fireworks begin at Dusk

BEACH HAVEN July 4
Fireworks over the Bay
Taylor Avenue
Fireworks begin between 9 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
Rain date: July 5th

BEACHWOOD/TOMS RIVER/RIVER TOWNS July 4
Fireworks display at 8 pm at the Bayside Avenue Beach Front
For further information contact
732-286-6000, ext. 200

BERKELEY Tuesday, June 29th
Concert – 6 p.m.
“B Street Band” Tribute to Bruce Springsteen
Veteran’s Park
Fireworks to follow concert
For further information contact Karen Stallings at 732-244-7400 ext: 208

BRICK TOWNSHIP SummerFest Concert
Thursday, July 1st, 7 p.m.
Fireworks begin at dusk

HARVEY CEDARS Saturday, July 3
Craft Show from 10a.m. – 4 p.m. at Sunset Park

LAKEHURST July 4
Parade at 1 p.m. starting at Union Ave. and continuing to the school and Lake.
Car show and fireworks beginning at dusk

LAKEWOOD Thursday, July 1
DJ entertainment by K.I.M. DJ Desmond beginning at 6:30 p.m. Amphiheater on North Lake Drive followed by music at 8 p.m. by the Municipal
Band until 9:15 p.m. Fireworks display to follow over Lake Carasaljo.
For further information contact Jeff Shapiro at 732-904-1348

LAVALLETTE July 4
Concert at 7 p.m. at the Gazebo located on Bay Boulevard and Philadelphia Avenue
Fireworks at dusk.
For further information visit www. Lavallette.org

MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP Saturday, July 3
Concert beginning at 6 pm at Harry Wright Lake, Whiting
Fireworks to follow.

OCEAN GATE July 4
Parade beginning at 11 a.m.

PINE BEACH July 3
Parade starting at 9 a.m. at the Pine Beach Firehouse

PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP Saturday, July 3
Festivities from 2 to 10 p.m. at New Egypt High School
Fireworks begin at dusk.
Further information contact Al Hutchins at 609-758-3005.

POINT PLEASANT,July 4, 2010 ,Dusk, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Those wishing to see multiple fireworks displays should head out early to Point Pleasant. Many other displays don’t begin until this one’s complete.

SEASIDE HEIGHTS July 4
Firework display at 9:30 pm on the oceanfront

SEASIDE PARK July 4
Bike Parade at 9:30 a.m. starting at the 5th Ave. pier and ending at the 14th Avenue pier.

TUCKERTON Saturday July 3
Parade beginning at 10 a.m. starting at the Village Shops and going to the Tuckerton Seaport with further activities beginning at 3 p.m. including a Baby Parade and ending with a fireworks display at the Tip Seaman Park.

Monmouth County

MANASQUAN GALA FIREWORKS CELEBRATION
July 2nd
Presented by the Manasquan Tourism Commission. Parade beginning at 6:30 pm, with Concert commencing at 7:00 pm. Fantastic Fireworks display to follow.
Main Beach, Manasquan
Raindate July 3rd

WALL DAY & FIREWORKS CELEBRATION
July 3rd
12pm-11pm
Rides, Fireworks, Games, Live Bands, Food, Fun, and the 21st Annual Firecracker 5 Mile Run & Kids Races!
Wall Municipal Complex
2700 Allaire Road, Wall
Fireworks Raindate July 9th

OCEAN TWP. 4th OF JULY CELEBRATION
July 3rd
Fourth of July celebration and fireworks.
Fireworks display begins at Sunset.
Joe Palaia Park
240 Whalepond Road, Oakhurst
Raindate 7/5

OCEANFEST AT LONGBRANCH July 4th
10am-10pm on the Promenade
Fireworks display, entertainment including bands, clowns, face painting, stiltwalkers, balloon artists, and more.  Food for all tastes, wide range of crafters, and a master sandsculpting exhibition.

24th ANNUAL KABOOM FIREWORKS ON THE NAVESINK
July 3rd
Launched from two barge locations, Garden State Fireworks of Millington, New Jersey shoots over 10,000 shells, all choreographed to an eclectic mix of popular and patriotic songs.
Navesink River, Red Bank
Raindate July 4th

FREEHOLD 4th OF JULY FIREWORKS
July 4th
This family-friendly event attracts over 20,000 viewers, featuring vendors and food in a community picnic-like setting.
Freehold Raceway
3190 US Route 9, Freehold

My favorite all time place to view fireworks was at Walt Disney World. It was magical watching the sky light up behind Cinderella’s castle.. My favorite local place is Jenkinson’s. There is nothing that compares to sitting on the beach on a warm Summer night watching the sky light up. Please comment on your favorite local place to view the fireworks and your most memorable night of fireworks.

July 21-25, 2010

Monmouth County Fair

East Freehold Showgrounds, Kozloski Rd, Freehold

Wed, Thu & Fri: 5pm-11pm, Saturday: 11am-11pm,
Sunday: 11am-6p Night Fireworks: 9:15pm (weather permitting)

4-H Events ▪ Animal Shows & Exhibits ▪ Rides & Amusements,Free stage Entertainment ▪ Lumberjack Shows ▪ Racing Pigs

Kids Races ▪ Home& Garden Competitions ▪ Bwana Jim ,Admission: $7.00 ▪ Ages 12 & under admitted Free,Free Parking

For More Information (732) 842-4000 ext 4312, www.monmouthcountyparks.com

July 13 – 18

Ocean County Fair, Robert J. Miller Airpark, Route 530. Continuous entertainment, animal shows, horse shows, exhibils, childrens contests every day with ribbons and prizes, demonstrations and exhibits, all included in admission. Information: 732-914-9466 or www.oceancountyfair.com

- BERKELEY TOWNSHIP

July 4

Independence Day Parade & Concert, 20th St. & Central Ave. to 10th St. Boat Ramp. 7 pm. Olympians on Parade, flags, floats and music. Information: 609-494-9196 or www.barnegatlight.org

- BARNEGAT LIGHT

Fireworks Extravaganza, Beach Area. 9:30 pm. Information: 800-732-7467 or www.seasideheightstourism.com – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

July 5

Yosi, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk South Beach Stage, Ocean Ave. 7 pm. Kiddie Beach Show. Information: 732-892-0600 or www.jenkinsons.com – POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Music Mondays, boardwalk at Hiering Ave. 7 pm. Rock & roll, oldies, jazz, and/or pop for the entire family. Information: 800-732-7467 or www.seasideheightstourism.com – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

July 7

Outdoor Concerts 2010: Jennifer Mylod & the Boys of County O’Cean, Brick Beach III, Route 35 N. 7 pm. Free. Information: 732-262-1044 – BRICK

Celebrate Jersey Fresh Fruits: Blueberries, Toms River Farmers Market, Huddy Park, on Water Street. 11 am – 5 pm. Rain or shine. 1st Wednesday of each month from June 9 – October 27. Enter to win a basket of Jersey Fresh produce! Farmers & vendors will feature the fruit of the month. Demonstrations & sampling by Downtown restaurants and businesses. Information: 732-341-8738 or www.downtowntomsriver.com – TOMS RIVER

July 8

Sand Sculpting Contest, Beach, 25th St. 2 pm. Compete and build your own castle. Information: 609-494-9196 or www.barnegatlight.org – BARNEGAT LIGHT/LONG BEACH ISLAND

July 9

Grove Gatherings at Murray Grove, Murray Grove Retreat and Conference Center, 431 Route 9. Potluck dinner (BYOB) 6 pm – 7 pm, entertainment 7 pm – 9 pm. Musical/Artistic Coffee House in the tradition of the English Folk Music Club where performers share their craft and engage the audience. $ Information: 609-693-5558 or www.murraygrove.org

- LANOKA HARBOR

Classic Car Cruises, downtown, Arnold & Bay Aves. 5 pm – 9 pm. Antique Cars, collectible cars, hot rods, trucks, motorcycles & live music. Rain date May 11. Information: www.pointchamber.com/classic_car_cruise.asp/ – POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Concert: Toms River Municipal Band, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St. 7:30 pm. – TOMS RIVER

July 10

Rainforest Rescue, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Boardwalk & Parkway. All day Spend the day learning abut their resident inhabitants, what they should mean to you and how you can help! Included in general admission. Information: 732-899-1659 or www.jenkinsons.com – POINT PLEASANT BEACH

July 11

Brick Summerfest 2010: Speed Garvey , Windward Beach, Princeton Ave. 7 pm. East Coast Boat Racing Club of New Jersey. Food Court and DJ begin at 5 pm. Shuttle buses run from Drum Point School, Midstreams Elementary School, and Brick High School (Chambers Bridge Rd). From 5 pm – 8 pm continously. Return trips from at 9 pm. All children 16 years old or under must be accompanied by an adult. Information: 732-262-1006 – BRICK

Concert: The Tone Rangers, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St. 7:30 pm. – TOMS RIVER

July 12

The Dazzling Mills Family Unicycle Juggling Act, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk South Beach Stage, Ocean Ave. 7 pm. Kiddie Beach Show. Information: 732-892-0600 or www.jenkinsons.com – POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Music Mondays, boardwalk at Hiering Ave. 7 pm. Rock & roll, oldies, jazz, and/or pop for the entire family. Information: 800-732-7467 or www.seasideheightstourism.com – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

July 14

Wild West Day, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Boardwalk & Parkway. 2 pm – 5 pm. Dress up as a cowboy and cowgirl, arts & crafts, face painting, storytelling, pony rides etc. Information: 732-892-0600 or www.jenkinsons.com

- POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Cruisin’ Downtown 2010, downtown Toms River, Washington St. 6-9 pm. Live Bands & Entertainment, street vendors, contests along with classic cars & motorcycles. Information: 732-341-8738 or   TOMS RIVER

July 16

A-Cat Races, Island Heights Yacht Club. 5:30 pm. Sailboat races. Presented by Toms River Seaport Society. Information: 732-349-9209 or www.tomsriverseaport.org

- ISLAND HEIGHTS

Concert: Toms River Municipal Band, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St. 7:30 pm. – TOMS RIVER

July 17

Shore Dreams for Kids, Municipal Dock & Ball Field, Rt. 35. 11 am – 3 pm. Entertainment for Special Olympics, Make A Wish, Oceans of Love Support Group for children with cancer, mentally, physically challenged children. Free powerboat rides, vintage and antique car displays, live music, food, drinks and planned activities and games. Raindate July 18th. Information: 201-906-2668 or www.shoredreamsforkids.org – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

Slider’s 5th Birthday Party, Breakwater Beach Waterpark, 62 Grant Ave. 11 am – 3 pm. Slider, Breakwater Beach’s mascot celebrates his birthday with special riends, including Perky the Penguin from Jenkinsons Aquarium. Enter waterpark between 9 am-noon and get a Buy-One, Get-One FREE, arrive after noon with non-perisable food donation for the local Food Kitchen and get $5 off admission. Games, photographs, balloonists, & tattoos. Rain date July 24th. Information: 732-793-6488 ext. 8211 – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

Toms River Seaport Society’s Annual Wooden Boat Festival, Huddy Park, W. Water St. & Route 166/Main St. 9 am – 5 pm. In the water boat on display, nautical vendors, marine artists, family boat building and model boat building. Meet the Valhalla Pirates. Games and boat rides. Food available. Information: or 908-303-1710 or tomsriverseaport.org – TOMS RIVER

8th Annual New Jersey State Ice Cream Festival, downtown Washington St. 11:30 am – 5 pm. Tasting from noon – 3:30. Attracting Ice Cream shops from NJ and National Brands, the best way to beat the heat in Toms River! Games, rides, food, and entertainment. Sponsored by Downtown Toms River. Information: 732-341-8738 or www.downtowntomsriver.com

- TOMS RIVER

29th Annual Family Chicken Barbecue, Pleasant Plains Volunteer Fire Department, 40 Clayton Ave. Noon – 7 pm. Cost includes ½ chicken, corn, salad, rolls, watermelon, 2 drinks. Order made to go. Kids bounces, face painting, fire truck rides, pony rides, live music by The CPR Revival. Also, door prizes, food, display of Antique Gas Engines & Pedal Tractors, Buster of Lakewood BlueClaws, Toms River Then & Now Expo. Information: 732-363-5296 or www.ppfd30.com – TOMS RIVER

July 21

Christmas in July, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Boardwalk & Parkway. 1 pm – 5 pm. Santa goes to the Shore 6 months early, pictures, snowfall on beach, face painting, arts & crafts, holiday music and more. Information: 732-892-0600 or www.jenkinsons.com - POINT PLEASANT BEACH

July 20

Blood Drive
Time: 4 pm – 8 pm
Please come and support the cause. . For more information please call 732-974-8314.

Location: The Goddard School of Wall  1981 Highway 34 (Wall Circle Park)

There will also be an open house,  please stop in for some complimentary food and beverages.

July 24

Point Pleasant Elks BPOE #1698

16th Annual Van Duyn Open Combo

Fluke Tournament

, Point Pleasant Elks Lodge, 820 Arnold Ave. 6 am – 10 pm. Food, beverages, souvenirs. $ Information: 732-899-5121 or www.pointpleasantelks.org

$40,000.00+ IN PRIZES

(Based on Minimum of 250 Boat Entrees) & Average Calcuttas

July 25

13 & Over Movies on the Beach: E.T., Hiering Avenue beachfront. At dusk. Free movies on the beach for 13 years of age and over. Information: 800-732-7467 or www.seasideheightstourism.com – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

Concert: The Roustabouts, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St. 7:30 pm. – TOMS RIVER

July 26

T-Bone Musical Show, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk South Beach Stage, Ocean Ave. 7 pm. Kiddie Beach Show. Information: 732-892-0600 or www.jenkinsons.com

- POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Music Mondays, boardwalk at Hiering Ave. 7 pm. Rock & roll, oldies, jazz, and/or pop for the entire family. Information: 800-732-7467 or www.seasideheightstourism.com – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

July 28

Hot Halloween Festival, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Boardwalk & Parkway. 2 pm – 5 pm. Wear your Halloween Costume early to the beach, face painting, arts & crafts, spooky shows, storytelling, free admission to Fun House with a costume. Information: 732-892-0600 or www.jenkinsons.com

- POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Sea Critter Round-Up, Arlington Bay Beach, 13-16th St. and the Bay. 10 am. Join the Alliance for a Living Ocean volunteers and interns to seine the bay and discuss the interesting creatures you find. $ Donation. Information: 609-494-7800 or www.livingocean.org – SHIP BOTTOM/LONG BEACH ISLAND

July 30,31

Exit 82: A Toms River Theatre Company Presents: Thoroughly Modern Millie, Auditorium, Toms River High School North, 1245 Old Freehold Road. 8 pm. A Rip-Roaring, Tap-Dancing, Fun-Loving Musical Comedy for the whole family! $ Information: www.exit82theatre.com – TOMS RIVER

By  Tricia Berwick

It’s hard to believe that in a few short months, another school year will be completed.  Summer is just around the corner and that means it’s time to start researching day camps for your kids.   Instead of sitting of sitting on the couch, munching on snacks, and flipping on the television switch or the computer, your child will have stimulating activities with peers.  You won’t have to answer the daily question of, “Mom, what are doing today?   Are we doing anything fun?”  If you decide on a camp experience this summer, that question will be taken care of and you can feel at ease that your child will be busy and productive while having a good time.

According to the American Camp Association, (www.acacamps.org), camp encourages children to explore and learn in a nurturing environment.  It’s also a good opportunity for your child to try new activities and to have a better idea of what he or she is good at and feels comfortable doing.   Sending your child to camp is an excellent way for your child to learn how to be independent, too.

Another important reason to send your child to camp this summer is simply to enjoy the fresh air and to experience nature.  Your child will go on guided nature walks and learn to truly appreciate nature.  It’s always great to take a break from the everyday routine and to see something new.  During the school year, kids are always busy with homework and after-school activities.  However, summer is the perfect time to slow down, have some fun, and enjoy the warm weather.  Camp is a great way for your child to do all of these things with his peers.

Before deciding on a camp, it’s a good idea to gather as much information as possible before you commit to one.   A good technique to find out whether a camp would be a suitable fit for your child is to network with other parents.  Getting feedback from those who have already experienced the camp is one of the best ways to determine if the camp would be a good option.  When speaking to parents, be sure to ask questions about what a typical day is like, how competitive the activities are, what the camp-to-counselor ratio is and how the counselors are screened and trained.

It’s also advisable to ask how counselors deal with difficulties that may arise.  For instance, how do they handle problems with discipline?  Do they call parents when there’s a problem?  It’s important to research the camp’s behavior policies before you sign on the dotted line.  Also, it’s not unreasonable to ask for references beforehand and to research the camp’s credentials.  Make sure to keep a checklist of your information to stay organized and focused while compiling research.

Another significant tip in the selection process is to determine what type of camp would work best for your child.  These days, there are many options to choose from, from traditional camps which feature nature and arts and crafts activities, as well as more specialized camps.  Does your child enjoying drawing pictures?  If so, an art camp would be appropriate.  If your child loves to shoot hoops, run the bases, and swim, a sports camp would be ideal. Or if your child likes dance, you could send her to a ballet camp.  Or perhaps even a camp which studies foreign languages or filmmaking.  Decide on a budget that your family can afford and then ask your child for input.

Point Pleasant Beach mother Joanna Madden, says she looks for a camp that can develop her children’s athletic abilities.

“What’s important to me is how well the counselors can coach my kids, especially my older child,” says Madden.  “My nine-year-old is really involved with sports, so finding theright sports camp is a key factor for my family.  If there’s a camp that is designated for a specific skill, I would be more willing to travel.  I also want to make sure the camp has a down-to-earth atmosphere and allows the kids to be social with others.”

Melissa Nagel, a mother of two, concurs with Madden and says that her kids, ages 5 and 3 have benefited from specialized camps in the past.

“The soccer camp we sent the kids to was small, with only three kids to a class which was great,” says the Point Pleasant mom.  “It was very specialized which helped them a lot.”

Other factors to consider are the cost and the location of the camp.  What is your family’s budget?  Sure, you would like your child to have a fun and rewarding summer camp experience, but it’s also important to determine what your family can reasonably afford.  What about location?  Is it better for the camp to be close to your job in case of an emergency, or should your child choose a local camp so he can socialize with kids from the neighborhood?  What about transportation to and from camp?  Will you be able to drive your child to camp or does the facility offer bus service?  Maybe you can coordinate a transportation schedule with another mom.  This way, one parent can take care of drop off and the other mom can be responsible for pickup.  It’s imperative to plan ahead and figure out the details before making a choice.

Once your family has decided on a particular camp, it’s important to register as early as possible.  Many times camps offer discounts if you commit before a certain date.  It’s also wise to book early if you have specific dates in mind that you would like your child to attend camp.

If you’re thinking about sending your child to camp this summer, start researching the Internet, visit some of the local camps and their staff, talk to other parents about their experiences, and ask your child what type of camp he or she would like to attend.   By working together as a team, you and your child will pick the best camp experience for the summer.

Spring is in the air and summer camp is on  everyone’s mind.  Once again Kum Sung will be offering an exciting summer  camp for children ages five through fourteen years old.  Sung Star  Academy will have a summer camp program for children ages one though five  years old at the learning center. There are openings for infants  6 weeks   through 12 months old year  round.

Day trips are  designed to entertain children ages 4 years old and up. Fun Town Pier, Peddles  and Paddles, bowling, movies, Pirate Adventure, Black Beard’s Cave and more is  planned.  Youngsters under the age of four are entertained daily in a  safe environment while at Sung Star Academy.  A developmentally  appropriate curriculum has been created by the director and staff.  It is  designed to provide stimulating and engaging experience, laughter and a great  desire to return to camp!

Water play,  wading pools, sprinklers are readily available daily for our children to cool  off with.  The greatest amount of fun seems to be found at  our in ground pool. Sung Star campers will receive swim lessons as well as free daily swiming.   It is refreshing to see our older and younger siblings catching up with  each other around the pool and outdoor playground. Our water slide, moon  bounce, DJ dance party and spectacular end of the year  celebration all contribute to the KS tradition of summer  fun.

Sports such as soft ball, basket  ball, field hockey, and beach volley ball are offered daily.   Along  with making arts and crafts  kids love to create “art like” edible snacks  and devour them for lunch! Games, contests and in camp competitions are part  of the fun.

Older campers will be  taught the importance of exercise and nutrition.  K.S. programs are  designed and supervised by experienced educators and top fitness experts.  There is also a focus on self confidence,independence, physical activity and  leadership building in a positive atmosphere.

Most importantly the children receive  Martial Arts and karate training weekly.  Intergrated through karate, is  the teaching of inner strength, loyalty, courage, bravery, kindness and most  importantly respect.  Students are exposed to positive and strong  character building. The expectation of K.S. is designed to expose your  children to these behaviors by creating life lessons.  Several parents  have shared that after the camp experience ended their sons/daughters have  become more aware of the place respect holds for  them.

All of the Kum Sung  instructors are high achieving Masters. When instructors are so well trained  in the art and life lesson of martial arts it transcends with ease to the  students, sending a strong message.  Providing this experience came  through years of their own positive experience and training with Grand Master  Kum Sung.  The karate classes are presented on introductory basis as well  as training those that may be of a higher rank.

For children spending their summer at           For children spending their summer at Sung Star Academy, Grand Master and his wife Youn have designed the highly successful program that exposes and begins training youngster at the age of two!  Parents are amazed by the quick growing achievements they can actually see in their toddlers in minimal time!

A plus for our working parents is that we offer before and after care hour services from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm without an additional charge! The traditional camp day is from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Kum Sung and Sung Star camps are open for the entire summer beginning on June 15th through August 28th.

For our Brick campers transportation is provided to the main camp site.  Drop off is a 7:30 am and the bus departs at 8 am.  End of the day pick up is at 4pm. In addition, Brick campers are invited to attend additional karate classes at no additional cost. ( Brick & Toms River Locations)

Many of our children and families are return campers .  Whether you are  a new  camper or a returning camper, the  Kum Sung  experience is fantastic fun!  According to a KS family, “what the children experienced during K.S. camp were positive experiences and life lessons!”

For More Information

Visit our website at: www.Kumsungkarate.com

732-341-8800 www.sungstaracademy.com

732-341-7500

Zipline, swimming and horseback riding are highlights at Day Camp with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore

Fun is the number one priority this summer at Amity Acres Day Camp and Sacajawea Day Camp.

At convenient locations in Waretown and Farmingdale, campers choose from activities that include zip line, swimming, arts and crafts and performing arts.

Specialty programs include teen leadership development, cooking and horse care and riding. To maximize the fun, optional campfires and overnights are available as well.

“The joy that I felt that she was able to learn new things and meet new friends is overwhelming,” said the mom of a camper from Keansburg. “That’s what I remember the Girl Scouts to be from when I was younger – sharing with one another, learning new things and having fun.”

“Girl Scout camp was a wonderful experience for my daughter!” added an Ocean County mother whose 8-year-old daughter attended Amity Acres Day Camp. “Everyday she was so proud of herself for trying something new. We can’t wait until camp next summer!”

Girls ages 5 and through 15 are welcome at Amity Acres Day Camp, which runs from June 28 through August 20. A special Twilight Camp is available afternoons the week of June 21 to get girls excited for the summer of fun ahead.

“Amity Acres is an exceptional place for day camp. They had very good staff there; every one was nice, including other campers,” said the mother of a 9-year-old camper.

In addition to girls 5-15, Sacajawea Day Camp also offers a Tag-A-Long unit for brothers ages 5 thorough 11. Among the new program additions this year is a Firefly Unit for 3- and 4-year-old girls and boys.

“I’ve gone to Camp Sacajawea for the past three years. I would like to say thank you to you and all my counselors. I had a great time at camp. I love the activities. I especially like swimming, archery, boating, the Thursday night campfire and learning about nature. However, I don’t like the bugs! You are doing a great job,” said a camper from Seaside Heights.

Operated by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Amity Acres and Sacajawea Day Camps provide girl-led and girl-focused activities, rooted in Girl Scout values and traditions. Its counselors support, nurture and care for girls, encouraging them to try new activities and make new friends.

“My daughter, Abigail attended Sacajawea and she loves it,” said a mother from Middletown. “She has worn her Camp Sac shirt every day; I had to wash it every night. My husband just bought two more!”

Outdoor fun is all around as girls safely fly through the trees on a zip line, paddle around the scenic lake in a canoe, kayak or paddleboat, or learn to take aim at success at the archery range.

Bus service, before and after care options make life easy for parents. Basic camp costs start at only $135 per week at Amity Acres Day Camp and $220 per week at Sacajawea Day Camp. Many discounts are available to make a summer of fun more affordable.

For more information about Amity Acres Day Camp, visit www.amityacresdaycamp.com or call (732) 751-2755. Sacajawea Day Camp can be reached at www.sacajaweadaycamp.com or call (732) 751-2766.

Parents may be familiar with The Goddard School® and its exceptional academic program for children from six weeks to six years old, but are parents as familiar with Goddard’s summer program? The summer program is a unique blend of fun and learning.

Goddard’s energetic teams of teachers plan summer days filled with developmentally appropriate activities that foster children’s skill building, self-confidence, and cognitive development. Children learn about creepy crawlers, send letters to pen pals, and ‘travel’ to the stars in a positive atmosphere that offers the ideal balance to the school year.

As important as the learning component is to parents, an equally important factor is the opportunity for children to socialize and build memories that will last a lifetime.  Every aspect of the summer program at The Goddard School® takes these corresponding needs into account.

Goddard’s exceptional summer program includes:

• Science and Nature

• Arts and Crafts

• Drama

• Computers and Technology

• Literature and Language

• Cooking

• Music and Movement

• Sports and Games

• Manners

• Special Visitors

Goddard’s summer program is parents’ choice for a safe and nurturing program.   Each school develops a unique learning experience for the children in their neighborhood.  Teachers create lesson plans based on Goddard Developmental Guidelines in order to provide a stimulating experience full of age-appropriate activities and oodles of fun.

As important as the learning component is to parents, an equally important factor is a safe environment.  Goddard answers this aspect with its comprehensive Goddard Quality Assurance Review.  While Goddard Schools must maintain state regulations, they are additionally required to meet the stringent standards of Goddard QA to ensure health and safety as well as curriculum standards in their schools.

Goddard Schools’ summer calendars include special visitors and cultural events throughout the summer.  Visitors provide exciting learning opportunities, in a safe environment, and may include, community helpers; performances by storytellers, musicians, and magicians; as well as outreach programs through local museums.

To learn more about the Goddard

summer program in your

neighborhood, please call

1-800-GODDARD or visit www.goddardschool.com.

Imagine a week where you go on a field trip on Monday, went swimming on Tuesday, had water play on Wednesday, moon bounce on Thursday, had a special guess visitor on Friday at your ultimate scavenger hunt pajama party.  Imagine that days are filled with science experiments, fun games, education, research and lot of arts and crafts.  YOU CAN”T WAIT TO RETURN TOMORROW.

We have planned summer camp activities filled with fun educational experience to create memories that will last a life time. From visiting the Statue of Liberty and Eliis Island to taking a cruise to see dolphins in their natural habitat to hands on experience at the Liberty Center, we have you covered.

One day your children are scientists discovering new facts with fun experiments, digging for fossils at a park and net fishing identifying different local aquatic species. Another week they are artistes at a live play, and being part of a silent masquerade ball where they have to use clues to find the missing jewel.  They will be pirates and take a real voyage and find the villain and win the prize. They will swim weekly and be entertained every week.  They will have so much fun they won’t even know they are learning.  And if you don’t tell we promise we won’t.

Join us at Tutor Time where learning is fun, because it’s always a fun day at Tutor Time.

Choose from our CUB CAMP for children ages 3-5years and ADVENTURE CAMP for children ages 5-12years old.

Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty * Poricy Park Fossil Hunt

Pirate Adventures * Cattus Island Beach Combing

Point Pleasant Beach and Amusement Park * Gymboree

Creative Experience * Bagel Making at Shore Bagels & Deli

Point Pleasant Aquarium * Weekly swimming

Discovery Children’s Museum * Sky Line Dolphin Cruise

Classes now forming for Sports,Parent/Child, Tumbing and

Music Classes.

732-262-0037

There are so many fun and exciting activities that will take place at Ocean Gymnastics Academy’s Sizzling Summer Camp.  Gymnastics plus so much more fun fill each and every moment of our camp.  As in previous years, our campers tend to educate their parents with facts obtained from each of the weeklythemes.  This year’s themes include:

*UNDER THE SEA* SUMMER FUN

*KNIGHTS,PRINCESS,AND CASTLES

* MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

*EXTINCT AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

* GO WITH THE FLOW

At Ocean Gymnastics Academy children are respected for their feelings, supported for their desire to explore, and encouraged to feel powerful.  Our goal is to help our campers gain a sense of competence in all areas of development within our camp.  At all times the development of our campers self-esteem and confidence is of paramount importance.

Ocean Gymnastics Camp is extremely fast paced, and there is never a dull moment.  Campers constantly rotate from project to project, to gymnastics, to projects, to snack, and back to gymnastics.  A stage provides campers with the unique opportunity to entertain fellow campers with joke telling, songs, dance, or whatever else they would like to perform.  IT’S ALL ABOUT OUR CAMPERS!

Allow your child to experience and grow in a loving, fun, and safe atmosphere which encourages positive self-esteem and fun learning.

WE KNOW HOW TO HAVE FUN AT

OCEAN GYMNASTICS’ SUMMER CAMP!!!

1200 Fischer Blvd. • Toms River

732-270-4500

Help your kids avoid the summer slide with Mathnasium of Toms River’s MATH CAMP! Summer is a great time to catch up and get ahead!  In our relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables students to focus on what they need most. Students keep their minds active throughout the summer months by participating in programs designed to develop, maintain, and challenge their math skills and understanding.

According to directors Wayne Gray, Barbara Koehler, and Neil Rankin, all students can excel in school and on standardized tests when they’re given the chance to really understand the materials. When they start the school year prepared, without losing two or three months of knowledge, the results astound parents.  All of a sudden, homework and tests are a totally different experience!

Mathnasium of Toms River is offering a MATH CAMP for July and August.  Students can attend Mathnasium for as little as 4 weeks and as long as 9 weeks. The center will be open from 10AM – 12PM and from 3PM - 7PM Monday to Thursday. Students are encouraged to attend two times a week for one hour each session.

The MATH CAMP programs are specifically designed to help children get ready for the next school year in a more relaxed environment.  In addition, students who will be taking Algebra, Geometry, or Algebra II in the fall can work on a Preview Course at Mathnasium during the summer.   Mathnasium’s MATH CAMP students find learning math is fun, rewarding, and even inspiring!

For more information on

Mathnasium of Toms River, or to register for a MATH CAMP session, please call 732-255-MATH(6284)

or send an email to tomsriver@mathnasium.com

BBQs,Beaches, & Better Grades!

Eagle’s Crest Summer Camp

“WHERE FRIENDSHIPS LAST FOREVER”

Quality and Affordable Summer Camp for every family!

Summer camp is about personal growth, friendships and fun. Our job as camp professionals is to create an atmosphere that enables kids to experience the freedom of summer in ways that they could not at home. It is an opportunity for campers and staff alike to build new friendships and experience new things.

At Holy Family’s Eagle’s Crest Summer Camp we try to think of ourselves as cruise directors giving these young people a different experience each day that they attend camp.  Our great facility enables us the opportunity to provide sports, water activities, fine arts, carnivals and so much more.

We see our campers as “unique” and unique children need unique opportunities. At camp they get to do things that they never did before. Our best days are when campers do not want to leave camp or leave saying, “guess what I did today”!

Most camps offer similar activities. But we offer something that most camps can only hope to achieve.  All of our counselors are former students.  Every counselor has a special tie to Holy Family School and when people care about something it creates a very special place!

Our principal goals are to help our campers learn something about themselves and to promote a healthy respect for each other and the values that we stand for.  Our Kinder, Junior, and Teen Leadership Camps do exactly that, by creating a one of a kind camp experience for all.

Character Party Meals

Food + Characters = Fun!

By Tricia Berwick

Between school, work, and after school activities, many area families have hectic, crazy weeks.  After rushing around from dance class to soccer practice, sometimes preparing a family meal becomes a dreaded chore.  Instead of stressing over what to feed the troops, pile everyone into the car and head to “Kid’s Night” at Perkins or Boston’s Gourmet Pizza.  Your whole family can enjoy a tasty meal together, while the kids will be entertained with characters and games.

On Wednesday evenings from 5-8 pm at Perkins Restaurants in Wall Township, Toms River, and Lacey Township, kids will have the opportunity to visit with some of their favorite cartoon characters, like Elmo, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Boots from Dora the Explorer.

Jamie Deleo, the General Manager of Perkins Restaurant in Wall, says the kids really look forward to meeting the stars from their favorite television shows and movies.

“Having this type of night really brings the kids into the restaurant and they are so happy while they are here,” says Deleo.  “We usually have the same customers come in every week.  Since the characters change every Wednesday, it’s always something different for the kids.  The schedule is usually booked two months in advance, so the customers can call in advance to see who will be appearing.”

Deleo says that kids are also treated to a free balloon, cookie, and a small toy, such as a stuffed animal or puzzle.

On Tuesday nights at Boston’s Gourmet Pizza in Neptune and Toms River, kids will enjoy a similar type of experience.  Your little ones will be able to high five a costumed character, watch a balloon animal being made, and even have their faces painted.  Plus, kids eat free with each paid adult entrée.

Toms River Manager Katie Driscoll says the “Kid’s Night” program has been very successful since it began when the restaurant opened its doors over a year ago.

“The kids are encouraged to get up from the tables and talk to the characters and interact with them,” says Driscoll.  “They’re also encouraged to make friends with the other kids.  The parents love it because they get to sit down and eat while the kids are being entertained.  They can relax for a little while.”

The entertainment at both of these establishments is provided by Kiddy Parties which brings quality children’s entertainment to families in the Jersey Shore area.

The strength of this company, which has been in business for over ten years, is its founder, Lory Bradford.  This mom of two is a natural-born performer and loves being able to bring smiles to children’s faces.  After working in children’s community theatre for a few years, one of Bradford’s colleagues approached her with the idea of hosting private parties for kids.

“At the end of the children’s shows, kids were allowed to ask the performers questions,” says Bradford who has taken numerous professional acting classes.  “The kids always seemed to gravitate to me.  They liked to talk and to ask about the performances.  One of my friends noticed this and then put the idea in my head that I might be good at entertaining children for private parties.  She got me started doing my first party and the parents loved me so much they gave me a very generous tip.”

After that successful first party, Bradford was able to book another party and then yet another.   Word quickly spread that Bradford had a talent for making kids happy.  And, when it comes to making kids happy at parties, parents are willing to pay for good, quality entertainment.  After an assortment of referrals and positive recommendations, Bradford decided to launch her own business.

Bradford and her staff have a blast entertaining children in many ways.  In addition to being dressed as your child’s favorite costumed character, the entertainers will engage the kids in face painting, tattoos, make-up and glitter, play games with all of the children, pose for pictures, blow out the candles, and even stay for some scrumptious birthday cake.  Even while Bradford and her staff is busy painting silly shapes and colorful designs onto kids’ faces, they are still working the crowd by singing songs and telling funny jokes to the little ones.

When kids see a costumed character walk into a party or a restaurant, their eyes always widen in amazement and wonder as they flock to get closer to their beloved superhero or favorite princess.  Parents rush to grab their cameras and snap pictures of the kids as their eyes are glued to these larger than life characters.  However, there’s always one kid in the bunch who isn’t very happy to see this added person on the guest list.   Maybe he or she is shy and off in a corner or nervous about seeing the characters up close.  That’s when Bradford works her magic.

“There’s always one child who is off on his own and isn’t too interested in the characters,” says Bradford.  “But, by the time the party is over, that child is smiling, participating in the other activities, and having fun with all of the kids.  As the saying goes, the show must go on!”

With so many characters and activities to choose from, it’s hard to imagine anyone not having a good time.  Between the special guests, fun games, and lots of singing, there’s always something going on to keep the kids happy.  Even if a person is not in the best of spirits before the start of the party, it’s difficult not to have a smile on your face by cake-cutting time.

“I like that no matter what type of mood I’m in before the party, when I’m finished, I’m in a terrific mood,” says Bradford.  “I just love to watch all of the kids’ faces and to make people laugh.  I really enjoy making the all of the kids giggle at these parties.  That’s the best part for me.”

If you would like to experience Bradford’s magic and her talent for making children happy, check out one of the “Kid’s Night” programs at either Boston’s or Perkins Restaurants.

If your child has a birthday coming up and you’re not sure what to plan for this year’s celebration, surprise your child with something special.  Browse through the Kiddy Parties website www.kiddyparties1.com and design your own party package.  Let the experts entertain all of your party guests this year. For more information, you can also give them a call at 732-202-9449.

Having a birthday this year? Of course you are, so why not book your next party at Shore Ballet School! With their amazing ideas they can personalize your theme and bring your vision to life. A dance class is great entertainment and gives your guests a chance to be involved, even if they have had no formal dance experience.   The director of the school, Chrissy Starr, does all the great party planning herself with that personal touch you can only receive from a homemade business. When her daughter and son came along, she started using the space for their parties, and that sparked her inspiration to start her popular “dance” birthdays. Partygoers adore Ms. Starr’s enthusiasm, and she has fun with the kids and loves introducing the true fundamentals of dance. Ms. Starr is a certified dance instructor. Her teacher training began in London, England when she attended and graduated from the prestigious Royal Ballet School.  It was there that she learned how to work with children of all ages and train students to dance in a safe age-appropriate manner.  Upon retuning to the U.S. she continued her studies obtaining more teaching certifications while still performing in ballets and musical theater productions. The party package includes set up of tables, chairs and goodie bags. It also includes clean up which is a big plus for busy parents! The party itself starts with a 30-minute class of your choosing: Ballet, Hip Hop, Acro or Broadway. For boys popular themes include Pirates and Rock-n-Roll. For girls, Disney Princesses and Ballerinas are top picks. After dancing, eating cake and singing “Happy Birthday” kids have more time for musical games and piñatas. Wanna dress up at your party? Of course, dress up is the rage! All costumes are encouraged and they enhance the mood of the party for everyone. Shore Ballet can even personalize a co-ed dance party for boys and girls. Together brothers, sisters, friends and cousins can have fanciful themes such as princesses & knights, Idol Pop Stars, and countless others.   The historic Shore Ballet building is a renovated church that is spacious and can accommodate up to 80 guests. They even host weddings and showers in their 56×30 foot hall that’s amazingly open with vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows. The school is easy to find and just minutes off Rt.37 East in Toms River. Chrissy Starr is proud to proclaim her school is not a franchise, but a family owned local business that has been in the Toms River area for 32 years. Her growing curriculum and party ideas are all original and her customers love that personal creativity. Her dance parties are just another way of inviting kids and parents into the world of theater and dance. For Ms. Starr, owning the school is not just a job, but a passion. She loves her vocation, and since starting the parties she has had the opportunity to celebrate special moments with numerous families!

After enjoying an exciting inaugural season, Jersey Shore Pirates is back for another summer of fun and adventure along the Metedeconk River. The Sea Gypsy 2, which sails from Riverfront Marina, on Princeton Avenue in Brick, is ready to engage and captivate your children as they search for treasure.

Owners Rob “Captain Scurvy” Corring and his wife Jessica, have prior experience with boating and buccaneers and have created a true-to-life pirate ship adventure. Families across the New Jersey Shore area are enjoying this unique form of family entertainment.

“The public has had a tremendous response to our Pirate Adventures,” says Rob Corring. “Last year we had a rough start with the inclement weather early in the season but as soon as the weather improved, we really started to see the “word-of-mouth” advertising that is so important to us. Friends told other friends and mothers who sailed with their families returned for birthday parties. It was really great to see the return Pirates. We had some mates sail with us three and four times throughout the season. Our crew puts their heart and soul into every trip and we believe it really shows when you see families coming back for another sail.”

“Captain Scurvy,” is part of the energetic and enthusiastic crew, along with 18-year-old Christopher Hendershot, otherwise known onboard as “Pirate Smee.” While on board, both men lead kids on an interactive treasure hunt and teach the little sailors how to properly read a treasure map. Before they set sail, the kids always listen to a few rules about water safety, which is of utmost importance to the Jersey Shore Pirates staff. The kids will then hoist the ship’s flag and begin their journey. Together, the kids on the ship will work as a team to defeat “Pirate Pete,” who has stolen the keys to their treasure. They will collectively use the ship’s water cannons to defeat the enemy and secure the treasure! At the conclusion of the ride, children will be treated to authentic pirate “loot” as a souvenir of their journey.

For Corring and the rest of his crew, the best part of each trip is watching the kids have tons of fun on this high seas adventure.

“What we enjoy the most is the reaction of the kids on The Sea Gypsy 2,” says Corring. “Nothing is better than watching the mates’ faces when they haul their hard earned treasure from the waters, or when they battle the dreaded “Pirate Pete” with the water cannons. Although we offer several sailings a day, every trip ends up having something new and exciting. The reaction of the kids is always the best part.”

For two consecutive seasons, Corring and his crew have enjoyed watching the reaction of little Jake Vowteras. His maiden voyage last year made such an impression on the young sailor that his mom felt compelled to have his birthday party with the family-owned and operated business.

“I have been listening to him talk about Jersey Shore Pirates ever since we sailed on the ship early last summer,” says Jake’s mom, Kimberly. “For nearly a year, Jake has asked when his pirate party was going to be. There wasn’t even a question of what should we do for his fifth birthday! The party was amazing and everyone had the best time. It’s hard to even say who had more fun. And although it’s a cruise for kids, it’s a really nice time for parents too. You’re out on the water, it’s scenic, and it’s relaxing and so enjoyable, even though 22 kids are screaming “Argh!” the whole time!”

Since preparing for the adventure is a major part of this event, Corring and his staff made a few changes during the off-season to further enhance the customer’s overall experience.

“This season we have expanded our offices so that we can present more of an experience for our families and groups when they arrive at the dock,” says Corring. “We have a larger shop where we offer more retail options. It was really important to us, that when you enter our office, you know that we are trying to improve on what we do, and what our guests experience. It took a lot of work over the winter, but we believe it will improve on the overall experience which is what we want. We will always try to exceed our customers’ expectations.”
Customer satisfaction is one of Jersey Shore Pirates’ top priorities. The crew will go to great lengths to make sure that all of their guests have had a pleasant and enjoyable experience aboard the Sea Gypsy 2.

“One of my favorite parts of the business is when we get someone who is slightly skeptical about what we do and then they approach us at the end of the Pirate Adventure to let us know they had a great time,” says Corring. “They admit that they weren’t sure what to expect when they arrived, but as they watched their mini-mates turn into Pirates right in front of their eyes they became believers. Our PirateAdventure is designed to keep the kids’ attention from start to finish. To anyone who has every tried to keep a 4- year-old occupied for almost two hours, you would be amazed how our crew does it for multiple kids at one time, six times a day.”

The Jersey Shore Pirates adventure is geared toward children ages 3 to 10. They sail from May-October and are available for birthday parties, class trips, and families. During October, they sail on Saturdays and Sundays only, with six different sailing times to choose from.

Before the children enjoy this exhilarating adventure, they first must be transformed into swashbuckling pirates. Upon arrival, kids will be welcomed by enthusiastic staff members who will assist the children in selecting a perfect pirate costume. The little mates will then receive their very own pirate names, learn some valuable pirate lingo, and also have the opportunity to get their faces painted with pirate “tattoos.” Before the kids head down to the dock for their trip, the staff will remind the children to keep a look out for “enemy pirates” in the area.

Prior to sailing times for check-in, face painting, and dress-up. For more information, check out their website at www.jerseyshorepirates.com or call 732-899-6100. Reservations are highly recommended and it’s suggested to that you arrive 30 minutes prior to sailing times for check-in, face painting, and dress-up.