Meet Artists Jim McShea & Joey Harness at the Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – The Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch is pleased to display the art of Jim McShea and Joey Harness throughout the month of July. Join us for an evening of light refreshments and meet these gifted individuals during their Artists Reception, 6:30 PM until 8:30 PM Tuesday, July 23.

Jim McShea, has been a practicing artist for 40 years and has been affililated with North End Trilogy in Barnegat Light. He holds a bachelor’s degree in painting from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art and a master’s in painting from Yale School of Art.

Jim has had several solo exhibitions in the George Billis Gallery, New York City and in Boston’s Alpha Gallery and a two-person show at Pine Shores Art Association, Manahawkin.

Joey Harness, a member of the Pine Shores Art Association and Toms River Artist Community, served four years abroad in the Marine Corps before studying art at the University of Tampa and Hillsborough Community College in Florida. Placing his art aspirations on hold, Joey raised a family and worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 32 years, rekindling his ambition after retirement.

He has studied at the Medford Arts Center, under Art Smith and Toni Frary, and at the Perkins Center for the Arts, Moorestown.

The exhibit, on display during normal Branch operating hours, and the reception are free of charge and open to the public. No registration is required.  For more information, stop by the OCL Little Egg Harbor Branch, 290 Mathistown Road, call (609) 294-1197 or visit https://theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

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Todd Meredith to Play Acoustic Concert at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library is pleased to present the multi-talented Todd Meredith in an acoustic performance at the OCL Toms River Branch, 6:30 PM Monday, July 22.

The musician-singer-actor will dip into his vast repertoire for favorites by Buddy Holly, Bruce Springsteen, The Beatles, James Taylor and many others. He’ll take requests for your rock, pop and country favorites, whether you prefer them relaxing or rowdy.

Todd marks his return to the Jersey Shore after a tour through Japan with his band the Rave-Ons. His newest releases are an EP, One Track Mind, and a Buddy Holly tribute album, Rock, Rhythm and Blues.

As an actor, Todd built a solid career in regional stage productions including Noises Off, Annie, and Urinetown. In 2007, he won the title role in Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story and has starred in 19 productions of the musical including a pair of national tours.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclTRTodd for this free program, sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River.

The Friends are volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraisers and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Application forms are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at https://theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends.

For more information, stop by the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, call (732) 349-6200 or visit https://theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Share Your Love of Reading! StoryWalk® at the Ocean County Library Stafford Branch

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP – Love to read? Love to make new friends? Bring the family to StoryWalk® at the Ocean County Library Stafford Branch, 10 AM Monday, July 22 and 10 AM Monday, August 19.

Visit the OCL Stafford Branch on either day, take a stroll outside and pick up a craft to take home while supplies last.

StoryWalk® 2024 is a partnership of OCL and the Reynolds Family Foundation of Manahawkin, a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization of community volunteers engaged in philanthropy to address local practical concerns such as health, emergency needs, homelessness and scholarships.

The StoryWalk® Project was created in 2007 by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, and developed in collaboration with Montpelier’s Kellogg-Hubbard Library. The project promotes literacy, physical activity and family time together in nature.

Its popularity has spread to 13 countries including Canada, England, Germany, Bermuda, Russia, Malaysia, Pakistan and South Korea.

No registration is required for this free drop-in program. For more information, stop by the OCL Stafford Branch, 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin, call (609) 597-3381 or visit https://theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

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Survive Summer with The Last Kids on Earth: Max Brallier’s Ocean County Library Virtual Author Talk

TOMS RIVER – Would you survive a zombie apocalypse? How would a group of crafty teens navigate such a catastrophe? See how Max Brallier’s remarkable series The Last Kids on Earth taps into adolescence during his Ocean County Library Virtual Author Talk, 2 PM Tuesday, July 16.

The prolific New York Times bestselling writer has issued more than a dozen suspenseful tales for teens and tweens since 2015 under the Last Kids on Earth banner, available in print, eBook, audiobook and DVD versions at the Ocean County Library. The franchise was also transformed into a televised series.

At the center is Jack Sullivan, an average 13-year-old who battles Zombies, Winged Wretches, Vine Thingies and the eerily intelligent Blarg with his bestie Quint, his crush June, pet monster Rover and ex-bully Dirk, headquartered in a tree house fortress.

Among his other teen spine-tinglers are the Galactic Hot Dogs and Mister Shivers series and the Eerie Elementary series under the pseudonym Jack Chabert, all available at OCL. He also created the graphic novel Poptropica: Mystery of the Map, and the popular adult series Can YOU Survive the Zombie Apocalypse?
  
Please register at https://libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary to attend this free program, to view the upcoming schedule, and to view previous talks. Registrants will receive links to the program by email and may submit questions for the author when signing up.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Meet Master Falconer Bob Glass at the Ocean County Library Manchester Branch

MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP – Bob Glass’s 40 years as a Master Falconer have given him a trove of stories and a deep understanding of avian life. Bob will share tales, sign copies of his book A Journey with Red Tails and introduce you to one of his feathered favorites at the OCL Manchester Branch, 2 PM Saturday, July 20.

Many will remember Bob as the expert who coaxed a hawk from hiding in the OCL Toms River Branch in 2023. A Journey with Red Tails, available at the Ocean County Library, is a celebration of the world of red-tail hawks, displaying their majestic grace through arresting photos, and it’s an invitation to enjoy the wonders of nature.

You’ll marvel at the live hawk that will perch on Bob’s arm as he demonstrates his simpatico relationship with the species.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclBobGlass for this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive, call (732) 657-7600 or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Examine Historic Cemetery’s Origins at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch

TOMS RIVER – Centuries of change in Downtown Toms River have taken place under the placid gaze of the historic Old Methodist Cemetery at Washington Street and Hooper Avenue. Learn little-known facts about this hallowed landmark from historian R. Joseph Latshaw III at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, 2 PM Saturday, July 20.

Latshaw’s presentation will include a brief description of early 19th Century Toms River and an overview of Methodism’s emergence in the community. He will discuss the meanings of symbols emblazoned on gravestones, the identities of military veterans buried there, preservation efforts and much more.

The lifelong Toms River resident and Eagle Scout graduated Toms River High School South, Ocean County College and Kean University, and now conducts projects as a member of the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission. He is also Docent of the Cedar Bridge Tavern County Historic Site.

In addition, Latshaw chairs the Toms River Township Historic Preservation Commission,  is the Historian of the First United Methodist Church of Toms River and serves as a trustee of the Ocean County Historical Society and the Southern Region, League of Historical Societies of New Jersey.

Latshaw is Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 20 VFW #6063 and an active member of the North American Vexillological Association and the Colonel Richard Somers Chapter of the New Jersey Society, Sons of the American Revolution.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclTrCemetery for this free program, sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River.

The Friends are volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraising, and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Applications are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at www.theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends.

For more information, stop by the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, call (732) 349-6200, or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Find Outdoor Family Fun Near Home in Ocean County Library Lacey Branch Program

LACEY TOWNSHIP – In Ocean County, outdoor recreation and tranquil, natural surroundings that the whole family can enjoy are as close as any county park. Learn about all that they have to offer during “Family Nature Walks” at the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch, 10:30 AM Tuesday, July 23.

Join a naturalist from the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation for an overview of nature trails, spray parks, playgrounds and more features for family enjoyment. After the discussion, stay and take part in a simple crafting session.

Ocean County operates 27 public parks and conservation areas that contain more than 4,000 acres of preserved land for hiking, biking, ball games, tennis, swimming, canoeing and many other fresh-air activities.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclLaceyNature for this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Lacey Branch, 10 East Lacey Road, Forked River, call (609) 693-8566, or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Budgeting & Banking for Teens & Tweens at the Ocean County Library Waretown Branch

WARETOWN – Smart budgeting, like well-managed money, grows in value over time. Teens and tweens can take their first steps into financial matters confidently during “Banking Basics” at the Ocean County Library Waretown Branch, 1 PM Tuesday, July 23.

This program will introduce young people age 12 and older to the fundamentals of earning, saving, spending and financial security that can last a lifetime.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclWaBanking for this free program, sponsored by the Friends of the Waretown Library.

The Friends are volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraisers and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Application forms are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at https://theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends.

For more information, stop by the OCL Waretown Branch, 112 Main Street, call (609) 693-5133 or visit https://theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Prepare for Post-Maternity Life at the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch

LACEY TOWNSHIP – Maternity leave from employment allows new parents to adjust to their new roles. But resuming one’s job can present added emotional and physical challenges. Learn ways to adjust and cope during “Returning to Work after Maternity Leave” at the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch, 10:30 AM Wednesday, July 17.

Kathy Donaldson, Program Manager of the Pregnancy & Parenting Wellness Program at Central Jersey Family Health Consortium (CJFHC), will describe ways to plan for post-maternity life in the workplace and how to gather support during this significant life event.

This family-friendly program is open to children as well as to parents and guardians. Simple activities for children will be provided during the informal presentation.

North Brunswick-based CJFHC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to guide families toward healthy, equitable futures through services, education, advocacy and collaboration.

The group promotes evidence based obstetric, neonatal and pediatric standards of care, provides a centralized education resource and serves partner organizations, families and medical providers.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclLaceyMaternity for this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Lacey Branch, 10 East Lacey Road, Forked River, call (609) 693-8566, or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.

Three Holocaust Survivors to Share Their Stories at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library is honored to host three Holocaust survivors who will discuss their experiences in the fourth presentation of its “Combatting Hate” series. Join us for “A Conversation with Mona Ginsberg, Albert Hepner and Gela Buchbinder” in the OCL Toms River Branch, 6:30 PM Tuesday, July 23.

Mona Ginsberg, born in Austria of Polish lineage, and Albert Hepner, Belgian by birth, were hidden children during the Nazi invasion and occupation of their country. In Poland, Gela Buchbinder was assigned to a concentration camp.

Albert Hepner was separated from his newly-widowed mother and older brother for four terrifying years, shuttling from strangers’ homes to churches to convents, suffering beatings and degradation. After the war, he was placed in an orphanage.

Scarred by his ordeal for many years even after arriving in America, he found the courage to speak in public and authored a self-published account, Avrumele: A Memoir.

Mona Ginsberg was five years old in 1938 when a brick flew through a window of her family’s dwelling in Austria. They fled to Belgium and in 1940 were forced to leave Antwerp for Liége, where Mona was hidden in the village of Banneaux.

Mona, her mother and brother lived with different families and kept in contact. Her father died in Auschwitz. After hostilities ended, Mona and her family re-started life together. She moved to America and stayed in touch with the family that shielded her.

Gela Buchbinder, born in Poland, was one of six children in a family that operated a produce store. Anti-Semitic brutality bred social isolation. When war descended in her 14th year, she was herded into a cargo train bound for Czechoslovakia.

Forced into labor in a linen factory, she became hardened to malnourishment, beatings and threats. Placed in a concentration camp, she weighed 56 pounds, suffered arthritis and had lost all her teeth by age 18.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/TrOclCombattingHate to attend this free program recommended for teens and adults. For more information stop by the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events or call (732) 349-6200.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.