Bum Rogers Keeps Paying It Forward

Last Sunday Bum Rogers Crabhouse in South Seaside Park played a big part in a block party to support local first responders held just outside their restaurant and tavern in South Seaside Park.

Some 400 people came out to support the effort which involved many restaurants along the barrier island, beer and wine distributors, musicians and others.  The success of the event will result in some $2,500 being donated to each of the three benefactors…the Seaside Park Volunteer Fire Company, PBA #237 and PBA #182.

The group at Bum’s is at it again and tomorrow (Friday) will be hosting a Key West Fundraiser that falls under the category of “returning the favor”.

It was just about five years ago that the Key West community raised $22,000 in one night to donate to the Toms River Police Department to help with relief efforts following Superstorm Sandy.  As we know Hurricane Irma hit the 7-square mile island city of about 27,000 people earlier this month and Bum Rogers’ wants to do their part of pay back the generosity.

Tomorrow beginning at 4pm they are hosting a fundraiser which they hope will rival even the craziest conch parties.  There will be live music, DJ’s, food and drink specials, a silent auction and more with all proceeds going to Southern Fishing Charities which was created by Tito’s Vodka to help with relief efforts in Monroe County.

The goal of Southern Fishing Charities is to insure all monies they raise go to the areas of greatest need and Bum’s General Manager Jerry Rotunda and his sons Michael and Jerry will be heading down to Key West next week to get a first-hand look at the island.

Nothing better than a party that helps others.

A quick plug for a charity ice hockey game on Saturday night at the Winding River Skating Center in Toms River as the New Jersey Devils Alumni Association skates against Team Owen, a squad made up of coaches from Lacey and Central Regional high schools along with local law enforcement.

The game is in memory of Owen Koehler, an 11-year old ray of sunshine who lost his battle with brain cancer this summer.  Sponsored by Thompson Healthcare & Sports Medicine, all proceeds will be donated to the cancer charity of choice by the Koehler Family.  The puck drops Saturday night at 8 p.m. and admission is $15.