Fire Prevention Week — October 8 through 14, 2023
In conjunction with Fire Prevention Week, The Lakewood Fire Department is hosting Fire Prevention Day on Sunday, October 15, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Red Square, downtown Lakewood, at Third Street and Clifton Avenue. There will be interactive Fire Service demonstrations, apparatus demonstration, gift bags with Fire Safety information, and Fire Safety videos.
The history of Fire Prevention Week has its roots in the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, but lasted 27 hours and incurred the most damage the following day. It remains one of the best-known fire disasters in the world. As a result, October 9, 1871, is the date most often connected with this tragic conflagration. In the end, the Great Chicago Fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2000 acres. While the origin of the fire has never been determined, there has been much speculation about how it began.
One popular legend was that Mrs. Catherine O’Leary was milking her cow when the animal kicked over a lamp, setting O’Leary’s barn on fire and starting the spectacular blaze. It is a less well-known fact that on the same day of the Great Chicago Fire, the Peshtigo Fire roared through Northern Wisconsin, killing 1,152 people and burning more than a million acres.
On the Great Chicago Fire’s 40th anniversary, the former Fire Marshals Association of North America (now the International Fire Marshals Association, or IFMA) sponsored the first National Fire Prevention Day, advocating an annual observance as a way to keep the public informed about the importance of fire prevention. In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation; and since 1922, National Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday-through-Saturday period in which October 9th falls. In addition, the President of the United States has signed a proclamation pronouncing a national observance during that week every year since 1925 making Fire Prevention Week the oldest safety commemoration.
Dedicated to raising public awareness about the dangers of fire and how to prevent it, the National Fire Prevention Association, or NFPA is the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week.
According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires, with nearly half (49 percent) of all home fires involving cooking equipment; cooking is also the leading cause of home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires and related deaths. In addition, NFPA data shows that cooking is the only major cause of fire that resulted in more fires and fire deaths in 2014-2018 than in 1980-1984.
“These numbers tell us that more public awareness is needed around when and where cooking hazards exist, along with ways to prevent them,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of the Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign will work to promote tips, guidelines, and recommendations that can help significantly reduce the risk of having a cooking fire.”
Following are cooking safety messages that support this year’s theme, “Cooking safety starts with YOU! Pay attention to fire prevention”:
• Always keep a close eye on what you’re cooking. For foods with longer cooking times, such as those that are simmering or baking, set a timer to help monitor them carefully.
• Clear the cooking area of combustible items and keep anything that can burn, such as dish towels, oven mitts, food packaging, and paper towels.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
• Create a “kid and pet free zone” of at least three feet (one meter) around the cooking area and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
“Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions that remove your focus from what’s on the stove are among the key messages for this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign,” said Carli.
To learn more about Fire Prevention Week and this year’s theme, “Cooking safety starts with YOU! Pay attention to fire prevention,” visit www.fpw.org. Additional Fire Prevention Week resources for children, caregivers, and educators can be found at www.sparky.org and www.sparkyschoolhouse.org. Additional Fire Safety Information for parents, children and educators can be found by visiting the Fire District Website at www.lakewoodfd.org.
The above information was provided by the Board of Fire Commissioners of Lakewood Fire District No. 1, in conjunction with Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr, and the members of the Lakewood Fire Department. For more information, contact Yehuda Beer, Fire District Administrator 732-364-5151
Enjoy a Breakfast for The Mathis House’s 125th Birthday
The Mathis House, 600 Main Street, Toms River, just turned 125 years old and does not look it at all! This Bed & Breakfast and Victorian Tea Room, built in 1898, was known as the Mathis-Berry House, named after the owner Thomas Mathis, who was a Mariner who sailed around the world and was a prominent political leader.
Today, The Mathis House, an 8,500 sq. ft. home, hosts a year-round Bed & Breakfast, a full service restaurant, and offers five luxurious suites all with private baths. Each room is decorated with priceless antiques, fine linens, a flat screen television, complimentary WiFi, and air conditioning.
For its 125th birthday, The Mathis House is hosting a birthday celebration with live music on September 17 and 20; and October 11 and 25, at a 9:00 a.m. seating, for $25.00. Breakfast, served on a charcuterie board, includes a slice of frittata, French toast, fresh fruit, a warm scone with clotted cream, bacon and sausage, coffee, tea, and orange juice.
The Mathis House is most known for its award-winning Victorian Tea Room that offers five- course luncheon that includes soup, salad, a full plate of tea sandwiches and savories, an assortment of delectable sweets and delicious scones, and a full pot of tea with over 80 varieties of tea to choose from. The tea room is adorned with vintage hats where ladies can step back in time and learn the history and proper etiquette for attending a formal tea party.
A stay at the B&B includes an early morning hot breakfast and homemade refreshments in the afternoon. Guests may enjoy wine and cheese on the front porch on cool nights or play board games in the evenings while making new friends. The location of the home is ideal for family guests that are visiting Ocean County.
Over the years, the home has been the scene for elegant parties and lavish dinners. The Bed and Breakfast and Victorian Tea Room makes a perfect venue for any special occasion including reunions, anniversaries, birthdays, fundraisers, business meetings, corporate events, holiday parties and showers. The dining rooms may accommodate large parties and the owners will coordinate individualized event planning to make any day memorable and unique.
View the suites at www.mathishouse600main.com. Make reservations by calling the Innkeeper at 732-818-7580.
Multi-Chamber After-hours Event at The Strand Theater, Lakewood
Celebrate the Strand’s 100 year, network with local professionals from several established chambers of commerce — the Lakewood Chamber, the Brick Township Chamber, and the Jersey Shore Chamber — and enjoy food catered by Fratello’s Restaurant (Sea Girt, Manasquan, Wall, Spring Lake, Brielle) Thursday, September 28 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the historic Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, N.J.
The fee for members is $30 and guests $35. A cash bar is available.
Gold and Silver Sponsorships are available. Gold sponsors will have three minutes to address attendees, pass out literature and/or giveaways, get email and social media exposure, and have signage at this event. Silver sponsors will get email and social media exposure, and signage at the event.
Register www.mylakewoodchamber.com . For more information, call 732-363-0012.
Jersey Shore Chamber to Host Meet the Mayors Breakfast September 20
Meet local mayors and Ocean and Monmouth County dignitaries for breakfast and a discussion of local issues and area happenings Wednesday, September 20 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Jumping Brook Country Club, 210 Jumping Brook Road, Neptune, NJ 07753, sponsored by the Jersey Shore Chamber of Commerce (JSCC), Wall Township.
The event fee and breakfast is $35 for members and $45 for guests. Register at JSCCNJ.com; or call Cassie Caulfield, operations manager of JSCC, at 732-280-8800 or info@jsccnj.com for more information.
The current sponsors are Shore Business Solutions; CMIT Solutions of Monmouth; NJ Natural Gas Company, and VCS (Visual Computer Solutions).
MODC Hosts Discussion of Shoreline Protection for N.J.
What if the sea levels rise by five feet by the end of this century? What would happen to the New Jersey’s coastal shore line? The public is invited to join MODC (Monmouth-Ocean Development Council) and NJBIA (N.J. Business & Industry Association) for a free Zoom meeting, Thursday, September 7 at 8:30 a.m. to learn from Ray Cantor, NJBIA vice president of Government Affairs, the DEP’s plans to regulate coastal development based on any rising sea level projections.
Since the DEP’s standards would have significant impact on the economy, its development, redevelopment, and property values, everyone is urged to attend. Cantor will discuss the plans in detail and what we can all do.
To register, visit modc.com. For more information contact Jodi Grinwald, CEO of MODC, at 732-751-8696.
About MODC: The MODC (Monmouth-Ocean Development Council), at 4814 Outlook Drive, Suite 102, Wall, N.J., in Monmouth Shores Corporate Park, is a networking and advocacy group dedicated to supporting the business environments of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. MODC’s membership includes hundreds of influential business, community, and government leaders representing diverse groups throughout the region. The MODC s dedicated to advancing the economical, industrial, professional, cultural, and educational growth of Monmouth-Ocean, NJ. Call 732-751-8696 for more information.
Who Will Be the 10,000 Student to Be Screened at the Lions Club Visual Screening Event?
The Eatontown Lions Club will begin its sixth year of free vision screening on September 14, 2023, partnering with the Eatontown and Ocean Township School Districts. Working with school nurses, the eight-member Eye Squad performs vision screenings annually in September and October for students in Pre-K through 8th grade. The Lions club is looking forward to its 10,000th free vision screening on an Eatontown Student at the Memorial School.
“We only need to screen 140 more students to reach 10,000,” said Lion Carl Lillvik, the Club’s Eye Squad Leader.
Scott T. McCue, Superintendent Eatontown Public Schools, said, “We really appreciate your help as well as the support of the Lions. Your work and partnership with us make a difference. The vision screening process and the resources the Lions provide to our students if a vision problem is discovered help our students to be in a better position to learn and succeed. Thank you.”
More than 12 million school-age children in the United States have some form of vision problem. Many vision problems run the risk of becoming permanent if not corrected by the time the eye reaches full maturity. Vision also plays an important role in education. According to educational experts, 80 percent of learning is visual.
Lions Club President Linda Butler said, “Early screening leads to early detection, which helps ensure that children get the follow-up care they need. We want to make sure that correctible vision problems don’t stand in the way of our children learning and seeing the world clearly.”
Vision Screening is part of a nationwide initiative called Lions KidSight USA, a national coalition that brings together Lions programs that screen children from 6 months on. KidSight USA was developed by Lions in the U.S. to protect the eye health of America’s children in their early years. Lions in the U.S. currently screen more than 500,000 children per year. Learn more about Lions KidSight USA at KidSightUSA.org.
About the Lions Club: Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world. Its 1.35 million members in more than 46,000 clubs are serving communities in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the globe. Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired, championed youth initiatives, and strengthened local communities through hands-on service and humanitarian projects. Learn more about Lions Clubs International at lionsclubs.org.
Prepare for SHRM Exams with a Certification Prep Class
Expand your HR knowledge and skills, and prepare for the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) exam by taking a twelve-week course and study group from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., beginning September 20 at Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, in partnership with JSAHR (Jersey Shore Assoc. for HR).
The benefits of earning HR certifications include being nationally recognized, public recognition of your professional knowledge, career advancement, and personal development. Certification keeps you and your organization competitive. It also sets you apart from your colleagues, by proving your high level of knowledge and skills.
The cost of $1,299 includes books, online resources and 2000 plus practice questions, and optional Zoom content and test review sessions. For a payment plan, call 732-224-2315.
Experienced professionals offer a variety of perspectives, and all instructors are highly qualified and very experienced in the SHRM course content.
For more information or to register, contact Carolyn Broderick, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, HRIP, the president and director of certification for Jersey Shore Association of Human Resources (JSAHR), Neptune, at carolynbrod@gmail.com.
Fairy Garden Activities and Back-to-School Giveaways This Sunday
Attend Fairy Garden activities and Back-to-School giveaways Sunday, August 27 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Common Grounds Community Garden, John Patrick Sports Complex, Lakewood. (Entrance off large parking lot on Vine Street near Salem Street).
This event includes free school supplies, a mini fairy tale garden activity with Jersey Shore Girl Scouts, a scavenger hunt, and refreshments. Although the event is free, donations are greatly appreciated.
In an effort to support the community and contribute to its overall well-being, the Lakewood Police Department collaborates with a local garden initiative, providing assistance in the form of garden beds and irrigation systems for their project.
R.S.V.P. to info@oneoceancounty.com.
Sponsors include Avery & Jays Handcrafted Ice Cream, Veterans Highway, Jackson; and TRJCC (Toms River Jewish Community Council).
Garden State Council SHRM Awarded for Elevating Human Resources, Improving Workplaces
The National SHRM Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management, recently awarded Garden State Council-SHRM its prestigious EXCEL Platinum Award for the Council’s accomplishments in 2022. The EXCEL award is given to state councils and chapters to recognize major accomplishments, strategic activities, and tactical initiatives that elevate the profession of human resources.
In 2022 Garden State Council-SHRM accomplishments included delivering a dynamic annual state conference for 350 attendees with 40 sessions covering critical human resource topics impacting organizations. The Council in partnership with the SHRM Foundation facilitated virtual mentoring experiences for emerging professionals and college students. The Workforce Readiness group provided 10 virtual sessions, averaging 50+ attendees focused on talent acquisition and retention. Finally, receiving national recognition as one of the top 10 State Councils supporting the SHRM Foundation.
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, president, and chief executive officer of SHRM, said, “SHRM’s impact on the world of work is due to the dedication and efforts of our chapters and state councils like Garden State Council-SHRM. The Platinum EXCEL Award is not only a celebration of the great work done by Garden State Council-SHRM—it’s also recognition of their focus and determination to cause the effect to make great workplaces. Their HR leadership is exemplary.”
The EXCEL Award can be earned at four levels: bronze, silver, gold and platinum. Each level has a prescribed set of requirements and accomplishments that must be met. Garden State Council-SHRM will receive recognition in SHRM publications and at conferences, a logo to display on its website, and information to share with its members about the significance of this award.
For more information about Garden State Council-SHRM, visit www.gscshrm.org.
Media: For more information, contact Edward Burke, at Edward.Burke@shrm.org or 703-535-6036.
About SHRM
SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management, creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. As the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace, SHRM is the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With 300,000+ HR and business executive members in 165 countries, SHRM impacts the lives of more than 115 million workers and families globally. Learn more at SHRM.org and on Twitter @SHRM.
Lakewood Police Youth Academy Graduates 46 Cadets
Forty-six Lakewood youths, ages 11 through 13, successfully completed a immersive five-day program from August 14-18 as cadets in Lakewood Police Youth Academy, designed to provide a firsthand experience of the life and responsibilities of a police officer. The graduate cadets marked a monumental step towards fostering stronger community connections.
Throughout the week, cadets explored various aspects of law enforcement and emergency response, equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge. The curriculum included essential lifesaving techniques, such as introductory CPR and The Heimlich Maneuver, ensuring that these young participants have the tools to respond effectively in critical situations.
The Lakewood Police Youth Academy arranged activities highlighting the vital roles played by different first responders. Cadets were treated to tours of the Lakewood police department, demonstrations by the Lakewood Fire Department, Lakewood EMS, the Lakewood Special Response Team, and the Lakewood Water Rescue Team.
The State Police Aviation Unit also landed their helicopter, allowing cadets to interact with troopers.The Ocean County Sheriff Department Mounted Unit and Lakewood K9 Officers showcased the multifaceted nature of law enforcement work. A trip to the New Jersey State Police Museum gave cadets a historical perspective on the law enforcement field.
With safety and preparedness in mind, cadets participated in simulated firearms training, evasive driving techniques, and an educational session on stranger danger. The week culminated in a rigorous Physical Training test that evaluated the cadets’ physical endurance and resilience, an achievement they had been working toward under the guidance of dedicated PT instructors.
Cadets also participated in a military-style etiquette program, immersing themselves in the basics of marching and its underlying purpose. This additional dimension aimed to develop teamwork, discipline, and a deeper understanding of the structured organization.
The graduation ceremony at the Historic Lakewood Amphitheater on August 18 celebrated the accomplishments of the 46 cadets who completed the program. The Lakewood Police School Resource Officers, Stephanie Mahone, Daniel Merrill, and Mike Del Valle, were applauded for their commendable efforts in organizing and overseeing this impactful initiative.
The generous contributions of sponsors of The Lakewood Police Youth Academy made the Academy possible and successful. The Lakewood PBA & SOA, Wawa, Jersey Mike’s, Gourmet Glatt, Ippolito’s Pizza, Michael Inzelbuch, A+ Printing, Jersey Shore Blue Claws, Sodexo, and La Casa de la Tia supported the program along with the following sponsors: Gourmet Glatt/IG, Gourmet Glatt/FB; Jersey Mikes Brick Plaza/IG, Jersey Mikes Brick Plaza/FB; Wawa North/IG, Wawa North/FB; Jersey Shore Blue Claws/IG, Jersey Shore Blue Claws/FB; A+ Letter Service Inc./FB; La Casa De La Tia/FB; Sodexo/IG, Sodexo/FB; Ippolitio’s Cucina Italian Pizzeria & Catering/IG, Ippolitio’s Cucina Italian Pizzeria & Catering/FB.
The Lakewood Police Youth Academy stands as a testament to the commitment of law enforcement to foster stronger relationships with the youth and communities they serve. By providing a comprehensive and engaging experience, the Academy empowers the next generation with a firsthand understanding of the dedication and sacrifices that come with wearing the badge.