Councilman Touts Summer Programs

 Column as submitted by Councilman John Sevastakis:

Parks and recreation activities along the Jersey Shore are extremely contingent upon the often inconsistent weather patterns in our area.  Fortunately, this past winter was extremely kind to us and our recreational facilities are now reaping the benefits.  The spring and summer seasons brings a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities in Toms River. 

Beach badges and pool badges are already on sale at our Snug Harbor Recreation Building on Warren Point Road and Toms River Senior Center on Garfield Avenue.  Beach badges only are also on sale at the 4th Avenue Lifeguard Headquarters in Ortley Beach from 9am – 2pm, weather permitting.  Township officials are already mobilizing our beach operation which opens on weekends beginning Memorial Day weekend.  Ortley Beach, Shelter Cove Beach, and the Township pool will be open daily beginning June 23rd.  Speaking of beach activities, plans are being finalized for a “Movie on the Beach” series which will take place on Wednesdays in August. These family events are free to the public and more information will be available soon.

Bey Lea Golf Course has seen consistent play throughout the beginning of the year and many new players are now calling Bey Lea their home course.  In addition, several of our local high school teams continue to practice and play their matches at Bey Lea Golf Course.  Recent renovations at the Clubhouse have provided for a better golf course experience and improved the flow of golfers checking in and getting out to the course.  The Township is very committed to developing golf in the community, and to that end, lessons are always available.  Please contact the Clubhouse at 72-349-0566 for more information.

At Winding River Skating Center, hundreds of youngsters participated in our various hockey programs this winter including Learn to Play, In-House Recreation League, and Riptide travel hockey.  Our teams participated at Winding River, throughout New Jersey, and around the region.  In addition, more local figure skaters are now taking advantage of ice time at Winding River and we are happy that they also have a home in Toms River.  For more information regarding programs at the skating center, please contact (732) 244-0720.

Summer is also around the corner and our Recreation Department is coordinating several summer programs.  Over 600 youngsters will participate in our very popular Summer Playground Program.  This program takes place at four local elementary schools through a partnership with the local school district.  Children participate in daily activities and go on various trips such as Blackbeard’s Cave and Laser Tag.  Other programs include Tennis Lessons, Instructional Sports Programs, and Swimming Lessons.  Registration for these programs began in early May and more information is available at (732) 341-1000, x8415.

The Toms River Recreation Advisory Committee is reviewing potential projects which have been brought forth by the public through our online survey at www.tomsrivertownship.com.  Projects which have recently received a lot of attention include a Spraypark and an Indoor Tennis Facility.  Further analysis is being undertaken and we invite residents to provide the committee with additional project ideas. 

 I hope that everyone has an opportunity to take advantage of our many recreational programs and facilities.  Please contact our Recreation Department at (732) 341-1000, x 8415 for further details. 

Best wishes for a warm and enjoyable spring season!

Councilman John Sevastakis