Recent Community Posts

Food to Avoid Giving Your Pets on Thanksgiving

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Foods not safe for pets to eat on Thanksgiving Keep the phone number to the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) as well as the number and address for your local emergency veterinarian handy.

Thanksgiving is just one day away so please keep your animals safe. Ask your guests to not feed your pets table scraps or ask you before they do to let them know what is safe to feed them. Turkey is not normally bad for dogs, but the “trimmings” and other ingredients included in the dishes on the table are often not tolerated by dogs and in some cases can be toxic. This list is on the DO NOT FEED PETS list:

  • Turkey skin
  • Tukey drippings
  • Turkey bones
  • Stuffing
  • Gravy
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Mushrooms
  • Grapes
  • Raisins
  • Sage
  • Pumpkin Pie – May contain Xylitol
  • Chocolate
  • Alcohol 

Here are a few items that are considered safe to feed your pets if you decide to let them share in the festivities:

  • Turkey meat
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Pumpkin (not pumpkin pie)
  • Potatoes
  • Apples

Pets do not know what is good and safe for them so it is up to us to keep them happy and healthy. Always keep the phone number to the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) as well as the number and address for your local emergency veterinarian in a place where all household members can see it. 

Want to Volunteer in Point Pleasant and Brick?

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Kathy volunteering at the Ocean Mental Health Services Wellness Fair OceanCares board president, Kathy, volunteering at the Ocean Mental Health Services Wellness Fair.

Want to Volunteer in Point Pleasant and Brick

  • Destiny Thrift Shop in Brick raise funds in their store to benefit their on-site food pantry and their mobile food pantry for those in our community. The volunteers who run the store are absolutely wonderful and are happy if you just volunteer one hour a week in the store. They need volunteers to organize and restock the shelves. They are also in need of items such as adult and children’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, luggage, home décor, artwork, furniture, books and media to fill their store. Please call them at 732-341-0779 to see what times you can drop off items.
  • Jersey Shore Animal Center & Thrift Store are always in need of volunteers. You can either help them by volunteering in the shelter with the animals or in their thrift store to raise money for the shelter. To see their volunteer opportunities, click here
  • Contact of Ocean and Monmouth Counties is a non-profit, charitable organization, provides trained telephone listeners who respond to human needs 24 hours every day. This volunteer based organization offers free confidential crisis intervention, information on available resources, and referral to community services. Click here to volunteer or here to check out their upcoming events. One of their big fundraising events is their gift wrap station they set up at the Ocean County Mall during the Holiday Season.
  • OceanCares Foundation support Ocean Mental Health Services (https://oceanmhs.org/) help people with mental health needs have access to services and supports, allowing them to live healthier and succeed in their treatment goals. Our very own Kathy is the current board president for the OceanCares Foundation. To volunteer click here
  • S.A.V.E. in Lakewood takes unwanted, homeless and abandoned animals and provides them with medical care and a safe and nurturing environment until they find there forever homes. SAVE is a no kill shelter. S.A.V.E has its very own pet center with adoptions available Tues-Sun 1-4pm (open Thursdays 2-5pm) located at 1594 Lakewood Road Unit 5 Toms River, NJ. They also have an adoption center located at the Brick PetSmart with adoption hours Sat-Sun 12pm-4pm. They usually host a gift auction twice a year to raise funds but due to Covid they have been placed on hold. I try never to miss them because they are so much fun and usually I win something too.
  • Local libraries are always looking for volunteers but with Covid, most events are currently on hold. The Friends of the Brick Library Branch of the Ocean County Library, 301 Chambers Bridge Road or at the Friends of the Point Pleasant Beach Library, 710 McLean Ave are great places to volunteer.
  • Local fire departments and first aid squads are usually in need of volunteers to help with fundraising ideas and helping out at event fundraisers.
  • The American Red Cross always need volunteers at their local blood drives.

These are just a few options in and around Toms River where you can volunteer. There is a never ending need for volunteers and many different organizations and charities to choose from.

If you are not comfortable volunteering there are lots of wonderful, local organizations in need of donations:

  • Ocean’s Harbor House provides a safe haven and caring environment for vulnerable youth to enable them to unlock their potential and learn skills that will empower them to build healthier lives, relationships and futures. Want to help? Click here here to donate.
  • Ocean Mental Health Services has a wish list of items if you prefer to purchase items and drop them off.

Attending fundraising events is another great way to help out local organizations. By attending, you get to enjoy the event and the organization gets to benefit from the extra income. Once Covid is over, get out there and enjoy some fun events to benefit local charities.

Good Practices to Help You Avoid the Spread of Germs

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

The CDC recommends that everyone should practice good hygiene, be careful with meetings and travel and handle food carefully. If you feel sick, please be courteous of others by staying home to limit the spread of germs.

Some easy precautions to take to avoid germs:

  • No Handshaking
  • Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, handrails, desks, light fixtures, toilets, etc. regularly
  • Increase ventilation by opening windows and keeping open when possible

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, SERVPRO of Point Pleasant are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. Call us today at 732-202-3001.

Replace Batteries in Smoke Detectors on National Battery Day

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent fire damage from happening in your Point Pleasant home by celebrating National Battery Day because even a small candle can cause damage.

Nowadays every day of the year is a day for celebrating something. There are over 1,500 national days of things to celebrate even though we only have 365 calendar days to celebrate them. Some are just lighthearted or silly, like National Gumdrop Day (February 15th), National Tell a Fairy Tale Day (February 26th) and National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day (March 1st.) Others we should take a little more seriously, such as National Battery Day (February 15th).

National Battery Day was created to raise awareness of the importance of testing and having working batteries in our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These detectors help warn you of a potentially life threatening situation, giving vital time to get you and your loved ones to safety. This is why it is so important to make sure they have working batteries.

Also, while you have the batteries out, this is a good day to check the batteries in your flashlights in the event of a power outage.

A Special Thank You to All Military Families this November

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Military families often endure unique challenges as they support their soldier so we thank them not just this November but all through the year.

Every November, The Armed Services celebrates Military Family Month to demonstrate the nation’s support and commitment to the families of military personnel. Throughout the month of November, Army families serving around the world are being recognized and honored for the commitment and contributions they make every day through a variety of observances.

All of us share in the responsibility of caring for our military families and veterans. These families have stepped up to the plate at great personal cost. Unsure of what you can do for Military Family Month? You can do one or more of the following ideas or create your own:

  • Create a care package for them to enjoy while away from home.
  • Thank an Active-Duty Member, Veteran, Military Spouse, or Military Child for their service and sacrifice.
  • Visit war memorials with your family to teach your children the value of service.
  • Fly the U.S. Flag.
  • Thank someone in a military uniform and/or surprise someone in military uniform with a free coffee, dessert or drink if in line behind you.
  • Adopt a military family for the holidays by sponsoring a Food Basket or Toys for junior enlisted military families.
  • Make a donation or volunteer with a military assistance organization

As we acknowledge and appreciate our veterans of the past and present for their noble and brave service to our nation, we offer gratitude for their sacrifice and for the security and protection of our freedoms. SERVPRO of Point Pleasant would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to military families for the support they provide for our service members on a daily basis. Your sacrifices on behalf of our country are truly inspiring. 

Storm Alberto May Cause Flash Flooding and Downpours Over 5 Days

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Even though Subtropical Storm Alberto has already crashed ashore on Florida's Gulf Coast,it is expected to churn through the United States on a path far west of New Jersey, but still impact the region, forecasters predict, according to the Toms River Patch. A surge of tropical air may cause downpours to spread over New Jersey and the northeastern United States late this week and into this weekend. New Jersey could see some rain on five straight days from Thursday to next Monday. There is the likelihood of isolated flash flooding incidents in the upcoming weather pattern, according to AccuWeather. 

As the pattern evolves, motorists should be prepared for localized, torrential downpours that may quickly flood streets and low-lying portions of highways, according to AccuWeather. From late this week through this weekend, a general 1-3 inches of rain is likely with highly localized amounts up to 6 inches possible.

This storm was the first of the 2018 season to hit the Florida Panhandle this past Monday, dumping up to 8 inches of rain on Alabama and other southern states. It is expected to drench areas as far north as Chicago. After that, it will track through Michigan and into Canada, according to the National Weather Service. 

For more information on Storm Alberto please visit TomsRiverPatch/StormAlberto.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Point Pleasant Today at (732)-202-3001.

At SERVPRO of Point Pleasant, restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your Ocean County property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

17th Annual OCASBO Golf Scholarship Fundraiser

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

A big thank you to all the volunteers, new and returning, who helped us distribute all the bags.

The 17th Annual Ocean County Association of School Business Officials Scholarship Fundraiser, held on May 24, 2018 at the Sea Oaks Country Club was a huge success. This event raises money to provide two students from each Ocean County public high school with scholarships. This year the golf outing sold out again, hosting 144 golfers. They enjoyed the beautiful weather all day on the course while competing in some friendly games. The games included Hole in One, Beat the Pro, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive and Lowest Scoring Foursome and the winners went home with some great prizes.

Thanks for inviting SERVPRO of Point Pleasant to be a part this great event. 

Help the National Weather Service Build a Weather Ready Nation

5/6/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Week for 2018 is May 6 through May 12, and is your time to prepare for a potential land falling tropical storm or hurricane. The goal of Hurricane Preparedness Week is to inform you about hurricane hazards and provide knowledge, which you can use to take action. The National Weather Service will focus on a different topic each day of the week:

Day 1 Determine Your Risk

Day 2 Develop an Evacuation Plan

Day 3 Assemble Disaster Supplies

Day 4 Secure am Insurance Check Up

Day 5 Strengthen Your Home

Day 6 Check on Your Neighbor

Day 7 Complete Your Written Hurricane Plan

For more information on each day, please visit the National Weather Service.

CAREing for Children and the Ocean County Business Association

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

This is the first delivery of toys for the 2017 holiday season that will soon be delivered to those in need.

Join SERVPRO of Point Pleasant and the Ocean County Business Association with their adopted non-profit charity CAREing for Children. CAREing for Children distributes toys and food to needy, local families over the month of December for the holidays. The majority of the toys are delivered through other agencies, including:

  • Island Heights Methodist Church
  • Preferred Behavioral Health
  • Ocean County Sheriff’s Office
  • DYFS of Toms River
  • C.E.A.N. Inc.
  • Providence House
  • Lakehurst Police Department and Fire Squad
  • Lakehurst VFW
  • Lakehurst Fleet Rescue
  • Beachwood and Pine Beach Police
  • Hope Center of Toms River
  • Seaside Park Police and Borough
  • Ocean Inc. of Barnegat
  • Morning Star Presbyterian Church
  • Joseph’s Church
  • many individual families.

”The gifts are always unwrapped, so everyone can see what they are receiving. We categorize them by age group, sex, baby or young adult which helps the agencies tailor the gifts to their recipients,” explains Clare Bojus, chair of CAREing for Children.

CAREing for Children is a year round endeavor. The 60 plus members of the OCBA collect donations throughout the year at their monthly meetings and bring toy donations to their December meeting. Our largest fundraiser event is the Annual Marty Aronow Golf Classic in May.

To become a member of the OCBA or to donate to CAREing for Children, please visit the OCBA's website.

Veterans Day November 11, 2017

11/11/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Point Pleasant would like to thank all who served in The United States Armed Forces. We thank you for your service and commitment, not just today, but every day.

David Kenyon Webster, a member of E Company, 506th Regiment of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division during World War II and aspiring writer, said it best "Those things that are precious are saved only by sacrifice."

Getting Back on Course

5/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Point Pleasant all set up and ready to welcome the golfers at the fourth annual Marty Aronow Charity Golf Classic.

Getting Back on Course

A Day on the Green Helps Local Families Have a Happier Holiday

Mold, muck, dust, dirt, water, soot, odors—these are just a few of our favorite things, and we happily spend our days elbow deep in filthy endeavors. But every now and then, we like to ditch the hazmat suits and head outdoors for some fresh air and a good clean game of golf.

And when we can tee off for a good cause? Doubly amazing.

In early May 2017, owner Mike Reilly rallied friends and colleagues to play a round at the fourth annual Marty Aronow Charity Golf Classic, hosted by the Ocean County Business Association (OCBA) and benefiting OCBA’s charitable arm, CAREing For Children (CFC).

When we arrived at the beautiful Pine Barrens Golf Club in Jackson, the skies looked threatening, but it thankfully never rained. And while Team SERVPRO’s score will forever remain a secret, we had a lot of fun and enjoyed bonding with our teammates and fellow golfers.

Sadly, we did not sink a hole-in-one, which would have qualified us to drive off in a new car donated by Down’s Ford. Nor did we win the other contests: low score, longest drive, closest to the pin, putting contest, or beat-the-pro competition.

Our disappointment vanished over cocktails and dinner in the clubhouse, and we salivated over the many exciting prizes available on the silent-auction table.

All in all, it was a wonderful day, which—in the end—helped create a magical morning for hundreds of local families over the holidays.

OCBA: Businesses Helping Businesses

We’ve been members of OCBA since 2013 and have made many friends and professional connections. It’s been an invaluable support system. The group helps us continually learn about the business environment here in Ocean County and New Jersey, discover new resources, and expand our horizons as entrepreneurs.

Aside from being an excellent business and networking organization, the OCBA has a big heart, too, in the form of its CAREing For Children 501(c)3 philanthropy. For many years, we’ve collected donations from members and used those funds to buy toys, clothing, and food boxes for underprivileged families in Ocean County during the holidays.

These gifts are then distributed through numerous local charities, including DYFS of Toms River and Lakewood, Pine Beach and Beachwood Police Departments, Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, and St. Joseph’s Church in Toms River. We’ve put smiles on the faces of thousands of kids and their parents—people who would otherwise have had next to nothing under their Christmas trees.

Since the Charity Golf Classic began four years ago, we’ve been able to make even more of an impact. The event funnels 100 percent of its profits to CFC. In its first year, we netted $10,000. In 2015, we doubled the amount. That number rose to nearly $26,000 in 2016, and we had record participation of 102 golfers. In its fourth year, we brought in close to $20,000.

Want to play or be a sponsor in 2018?

The fifth Annual Marty Aronow Charity Golf Classic might be a year away, but it is never too early to join us. Interested? Click here for details.

Chef's Night Out

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Point Pleasant is proud to be one of the sponsors for Chef's Night Out for The Ocean County Foundation for Vocational Technical Education.

The Ocean County Foundation for Vocational Technical Education had it's an annual Chef's Night Out on March 6, 2017 at the Pine Belt Arena at Toms River High School North. The Ocean County Foundation for Vocational Technical Education is a non-profit organization dedicated to help ensure a quality education for students of the Ocean County Vocational Technical School. It is our mission to augment, supplement and complement the programs of the Ocean County Vocational Technical Schools through the attraction of private resources for the exclusive benefit of its students and staff.


Chef’s Night Out was a fun filled night of sweet and savory delicacies from dozens of local restaurants, caterers, bakeries, specialty stores and wine and beverage distributors. We sampled Seafood Bisque and New England Clam Chowder from ACME Draft House, beef empanadas from Caneda’s, kale salad from Harrogate, mushroom risotto from Cuisine on the Green, short ribs from Martell’s Water’s Edge and pulled pork sandwiches and cinnamon roll pancakes from The Four Seasons Diner. They had delicious donuts from OB-CO’s and cupcakes from Jennie Cakes. The OCVTS' Brick Culinary and Pastry students made amazing desserts including my favorite, crème brulee. So many wonderful dishes from 709 Bistro, Bonefish Grill, Tuscan Bistro Bar, Klee’s, Café Diem, Waypoint 622, Mulberry Street, Bahama Breeze, Windward Tavern, Toms River Ale House, Carrabba's, Breezes Bar & Grill, Blend on Main, The Olive Garden, Prime 13, Labrador Lounge, Joey D's, and more. We discovered delicious wines made by 19 Crimes and beer from Beach Haus Brewery and Hunderton Brewery. 


A special thank you to everyone who made this evening a success.

Give Blood for March’s American Red Cross Month

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

Give Blood for March’s American Red Cross Month

 

Since 1943, every U.S. president has designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the Red Cross helps people across the country and around the world. The Red Cross depends on blood donor heroes across the nation to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are needed to help those rely on blood products. The Red Cross must collect 14,000 units of blood every day to fulfill the country’s needs.

 

During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross is recognizing the country’s everyday heroes, those who reach out to help people in need. These are the people who:

  • Help disaster victims get on the road to recovery.
  • Give blood to help a hospital patient
  • Brighten the day of an injured service member who is in a hospital far from home.
  • Take one of our lifesaving classes and step forward to assist someone having a heart attack or to save a drowning child.

 

Red Cross Month is a great time to become part of the Red Cross. You can work on a preparedness plan with members of your household so you are ready for emergencies. You can become a Red Cross volunteer. Or you can give blood or a financial donation to become an everyday hero.

 

To become part of The American Red Cross in New Jersey please visit New Jersey Red Cross  or call the Ocean County Chapter at 732-349-9230.