As much as I treasure sleep it was worth staying up for Monday night’s NCAA Championship game which saw Villanova stun North Carolina 77-74.

It appeared the game was heading to overtime after Carolina tied the game on a wild 3-point shot with less than 5 seconds remaining but the Wildcats sent their faithful into delirious celebration when Kris Jenkins nailed a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer. I fought off sleep on numerous occasions but rallied to watch what was one of the great championship games in tournament history and made up for what was a rather lackluster three weeks.

Now the question is can I do it again tonight when the Connecticut women shoot for their historic fourth consecutive national title. At least that game tips off a bit earlier at 8:30.

This Saturday you can eat to your heart’s (and stomach’s) content and at the same time help a good cause. Following last year’s successful inaugural event “Taste Of A Barrier Island II” returns to the Lavallette Fire House on Washington Avenue from 6-8. You're invited to come out and enjoy different gourmet items from more than a dozen well-known restaurants: Savor, Chef Mike’s ABG, Capriccio’s by the Sea, Bum Roger’s Crab House, Klee’s Bar & Grill, Hemingway’s, Lava Java, Bubba Burgers, Meg’s Grill, Lenny’s Pizza & Italian Grill and Kohr’s Frozen Custard.

There will also be craft beer sampling courtesy of Lavallette Liquors and raffles to give away prizes donated by area merchants including Xina, My Sisters Jewelry Box, Ohana Grill, B&B Department Store and others. The evening will also feature live entertainment.

Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for children 12 and up. Those under 12 will be admitted free. All proceeds will go towards the Lavallette Fire Company and its suggested you purchase tickets in advance by calling Erin Ryan at (732) 773-4191.

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