Lakewood Chamber News

“Relationship Strategies for Building Lasting Rapport” - March Meeting of Young Professionals

2009-03-22T22:12:00.000-04:00

Young Professionals, a Lakewood Chamber of Commerce committee and a support group for business professionals and college graduates in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties, N.J., will hold its monthly meeting at Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse, 400 Highway 70, Lakewood, Wednesday, March 25, 2009, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Lynn Schaber, a leadership and career management coach and the founder of Potential Within, Middletown, N.J., will explain how to build lasting rapport with clients and colleagues by identifying the four different behavioral styles of people.

Schaber is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coach Federation, a graduate of Corporate Coach U, and the 2009 president of the N.J. Professional Coaches Association. She hold a B.A. in communications from Rutgers University.

The cost of the meeting is $20.00, preregistration; $25.00 at the door. Admission includes hors d’oeurvres, unlimited networking, the presentation, and a cash bar. To register, contact Jennifer Weisert, assistant vice president and branch manager of Manasquan Savings Bank, 732-206-0527 or jweisert@manasquanbank.com.
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OHI to Honor Dr. Lombardino and Yoga & U Founder Alison Ingenito at Cocktail Reception and Fundraiser

2009-03-22T21:57:00.000-04:00

OHI (Ocean Health Initiative, Inc.), a Federally Qualified Health Care Center with offices in Lakewood and Toms River, is honoring two outstanding community leaders with the 2009 Community Service Recognition Award at a fund raising event and cocktail reception, Thursday, April 2, 2009, at Eagle Ridge Golf Club, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dr. Anthony Lombardino, vice president of medical affairs at Kimball Medical Center, Lakewood, and Alison Ingenito, founder and CEO of Yoga & U, LLC, will each be recognized for their services to OHI and the community.

OHI is dedicated to providing accessible and affordable primary health care to the uninsured and underinsured adults and children in Ocean County. Money raised for this event will benefit OHI patients and programs, such as pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, internal medicine, dental health, and social services.

Call Dianne Ferguson at 732-719-9022 to purchase tickets, take sponsorships, and advertize in the commemorative journal. Tickets cost $100.00 each.

Dr. Lombardino is being recognized for his significant role in the initial development of OHI and for his continuing influence on the growth and expansion of OHI. Alison Ingenito, through Yoga & U, LLC, has been instrumental in donating gifts for more than 1,000 OHI pediatric patients during the holidays.

The Honorable Thomas F. Kelaher, Mayor of Toms River, was the recipient of the first Community Service Recognition Award for being a dedicated supporter of health care reform for Ocean County residents.

About Ocean Health Initiatives
OHI, a federally qualified health center (FQHC), with locations at 101 Second Street, Lakewood and 301 Lakehurst Road, Toms River, provides comprehensive preventative and primary care, including pediatrics, maternal and child health, prenatal, WIC, universal immunizations, and dental health to the area's uninsured, underinsured, and undocumented residents on a sliding-fee scale, based on an individual's or family's ability to pay. OHI has a bilingual staff available to assist patients and callers. To become a patient of OHI, call a representative in the Call Center at either 732-552-0377, Toms River, or 732-363-6655, Lakewood. Visit www.ohinj.org. for further information.
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Educational Views Net $1000.00 for Local H.S. Senior - Toms River Dentist Announces Ten Contest Winners

2009-03-22T21:54:00.001-04:00

What should President Obama do to improve education in our country? High school seniors in Ocean and Monmouth counties recently expressed their views in a letter-writing contest sponsored by Toms River dentist Dr. Ron Rotem.

Dr. Rotem, who has announced the top ten winners, will present checks totaling $2000.00 to the winners during a reception at Dr. Rotem’s office on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.

Abraham Thomas, Marlboro, the top winner and a senior at Monmouth Academy, Howell, will receive $1000.00. Ocean Township resident Tamar Boodaghians, a senior at Ocean Township High School and the second place winner, will receive $500.00.

The remaining runners-up will each receive $100.00. They are (in alphabetical order) Tina Chou (Ocean), who attends the Academy of Allied Health and Science High School; Justin Fiscina (Brick), Brick Memorial High School; Juan Gaviria (Brick), Brick Township High School; Melinda M. Hudson (Brick), Brick Twp. High School; and Rebecca Sherman (Brick), Brick Memorial H.S.

Dr. Rotem says, “It was enlightening to read what high school seniors would tell the President to do about education in this country.” Their concerns ranged from the cost of education to class size. After he presents the checks to the winners, Dr. Rotem intends to send the students’ letters to President Obama. For more information, call Dr. Rotem at 732-341-8500.

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Your Whitened Teeth Can Benefit a Child Who Has Cancer - 2009 Smiles for Life Campaign Begins

2009-03-22T21:45:00.002-04:00

Contributing to a children’s charity can be as easy as having your teeth whitened each year from March 1 through June 30. Dr. Rotem, a Toms River dentist and member of the national Crown Council, has donated thousands of dollars to Ocean of Love for the past five years by donating his fee for professionally whitening teeth during that time.

By whitening teeth and contributing 100 percent of his fees through the national Smiles for Life Campaign each year, Dr. Rotem and his patients have helped this nonprofit organization that aids families whose children have cancer.

Dr. Rotem says, “If you are planning to professionally whiten your teeth, this is a wonderful opportunity to do something for yourself and, at the same time, make a difference in a child’s life. We had a great campaign last year, and I hope we can contribute even more this year.”

To contribute to the 2009 Smiles for Life Campaign, call Dr. Rotem’s office to reserve a date for whitening (732 – 341 – 8500).

Since 1998, The Smiles for Life Foundation, the charitable arm of the Crown Council, has raised more than $15 million for children’s charities across North America because members of Crown Council dental practices have agreed to donate the cost of professional tooth whitening during the Smiles for Life campaign.

Dr. Rotem was graduated from NYU College of Dentistry in 1991. His practice focuses on cosmetic dentistry and conscious sedation. Dr. Rotem belongs to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He is affiliated with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, NJ Chapter of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Dental Organization of Conscious Sedation, the International College of Cranial Mandibular Orthopedics, the American Dental Association, the New Jersey Dental Association, Monmouth/Ocean Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Rotem is an active member of the Crown Council. He is also a member of the Jersey Shore Business Network, Toms River, and the Toms River Chapter of Toastmasters.

January Young Professionals’ Meeting

2009-01-16T11:59:00.001-05:00

Effective Prospecting through Tough Times

The public is invited to attend “Effective Prospecting through Tough Times” at the January 28, 2009, meeting of Young Professionals, Connolly Station, 711 Main Street, Belmar, N.J., from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Amanda Pupo, CEO of MarketReach Inc., Hightstown, and the 2004 SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year, will suggest effective methods for reaching prospects by combining phone, postal mail, e-mail, fax, and voice mail in their prospecting efforts.

Young Professionals, a committee of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, is open to all young professionals and college graduates in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties. Preregistration is $20.00 and $25.00 at the door; and includes hors d’oeurves, unlimited networking, the presentation, and a cash bar. To register, contact Jennifer Weisert, Assistant vice president and branch manager of Manasquan Savings Bank, 732-206-0527 or jweisert@manasquanbank.com.

Local Dentist Announces Contest for H.S. Seniors

2009-01-16T11:56:00.002-05:00

You Don’t Have to Be Smarter Than a Fifth Grader to Win $1000.00

You don’t have to be smarter than a fifth grader to win $1000.00 or even $500.00 You just have to have an opinion about education and write a letter addressed to President Obama, suggesting what he should do about education in our country.

Dr. Ron Rotem, a dentist at the Center for Exceptional Cosmetic and Adult Dentistry, Toms River, is sponsoring this contest for high school seniors in Monmouth and Ocean counties. The winner will receive $1000.00. The first runner up will receive $500.00; and Dr. Rotem will award $100.00 to the next five runners up.

Eligible public school or private school high school seniors should send all letters, postmarked by January 30, 2009, to Dr. Ron Rotem, 355 Lakehurst Road, Toms River, N.J., 08755. The letter, itself, should be addressed to President Obama and include the student’s full name, full address, phone number, and high school. The winners will be selected based on the clarity of ideas and originality.

Dr. Rotem says, “I thought that with the inauguration of our new president and leader, it might be an opportunity for students to take the lead in expressing their ideas about education. If they had the chance to sit in President Obama’s office, what would they tell the President to do about education in this country?”

All winners will be invited to Dr. Rotem’s office to meet other winners and share their ideas. Dr. Rotem intends to send the winning letters to President Obama. For more information, call Dr. Rotem at 732-341-8500.

Young Professionals Host Networking Event at Historic Strand Theater

2008-07-14T12:06:00.000-04:00

Young Professionals, a committee of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, is hosting “A Little Wine and Song,” a networking event open to the public on Wednesday, July 30, 2008, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, N.J. Tickets cost $25.00 in advance and $30.00 at the door. Call the Strand Box Office at 732-367-7789 to make reservations.

“A Little Wine and Song,” sponsored by SAMR (Supreme Asset Management & Recovery), Lakewood, Investors Savings Bank, and Bacchus Winemaking Club, features samples of food provided by area restaurants, caterers, and dessert specialists; wine tasting; live music by the band P Dubs, door prizes, raffles, networking and more.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Water Safety Tips from OHI

2008-07-13T16:34:00.001-04:00

School's out, pools are open, the beach is inviting, the sun is shining, and everyone is looking for fun ways to cool down as summer temperatures rise. Remember as you head to the beach, pool, or lake, Ocean Health Initiatives (OHI) encourages you and your family to keep water safety in mind to ensure a happy, healthy, and safe summer.

Before you take that plunge into any body of water, ask yourself if you are completely aware of how to keep yourself and your family healthy and safe around water. Information about water safety often changes so it is a good idea to review the current safety recommendations.

The most important advice is to learn to swim and teach your children to swim as soon as possible. Never swim alone—always swim with a buddy. Your buddy should be at least 13 years of age. No matter how old you are, it is important to let someone know where you will be and how long you will be gone. What if there were problems or an emergency? You always want help to be able to reach you.

When it comes to child safety, most parents think about life jackets, swimming lessons, and childproofing their pool, which are very important. But, no matter what, never leave a child unobserved around water even though they may be wearing flotation devices or know how to swim. An adult must always be watching. It’s also a good idea to place a fence around your pool to prevent easy access. When it’s not swimming time, keep all toys as far from the pool as possible. Even kiddy pools can pose a threat to your child if he or she is left unattended. Your eyes must be on your children at all times.

Understand your limits. Even if you are a strong swimmer, you can become tired from the sun and, maybe, even careless in the water. If you're riding jet skis or watercraft in deep water, it's important to wear a life preserver and have safety equipment on board.

Take the time to watch your local weather conditions and forecasts, and make sure to get out of the water at the first sign of bad weather.
It is always best to swim in areas that minimize the risk of an accident, which is why you should swim in lakes or rivers with clean water quality and naturally safe conditions.

Although a lake or river has fewer hidden objects in the water that could harm you and the tide or current is less of a threat to your safety, you must still take safety precautions. To prevent RWIs (Recreational Water Illness) beware of swallowing, breathing, or having contact with contaminated water from swimming pools, spas, lakes, rivers, or oceans. Water illnesses can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including skin, ear, respiratory, eye, and wound infections.

On the beach pay careful attention to flag warnings and whether a lifeguard is on duty. You should only swim in areas that are supervised by a lifeguard. Look around for posted signs or warnings about the area you are in. Is it safe? Should you get caught in a strong current, called a rip tide, don’t fight the current. Swim across it until you are gradually out of the current.

Diving into water can be very dangerous so only dive into water that is clearly marked for diving. The water should be deep enough and have no obstructions. Why not enter the water feet first to make sure it’s O.K.?

Never mix alcohol with swimming, diving, or boating. Even if you feel fine, alcohol will impair your judgment, balance, and coordination. Alcohol, especially beer, speeds dehydration. Alcohol also affects your swimming and diving skills, and reduces your body's ability to stay warm. In other words, do not drink and dive.

Water can disguise the extent of sunburn, hypothermia, and dehydration. Water may cool your skin but it also increases the effects of the sun, so you may sunburn quickly and not even realize it. If the water feels cold when you go in it, don’t stay too long. Believe it or not, water can cool your body too much and cause hypothermia.

Dehydration occurs when we lose more 3 percent of our water content. (Losing 20 percent of our water content, can cause death.) Being in the sun quickly uses up the water our bodies need, so it’s important to drink—even if you are not thirsty—when you are in the sun. Combine mild dehydration with blazing sunlight, and it's easy to suffer heat stroke.

Heat stroke is extremely life-threatening. Heat stroke is a condition during which the body’s temperature-control mechanism stops working, and a person’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Signs of heat stroke include hot skin, a rapid or weak pulse, and shallow breathing. Call 911 immediately, move the person to a cooler place, and wrap the person in wet sheets, fan them, and give them cool liquids. If you have ice, put it on the person’s wrists, ankles, armpits, and neck until help comes.

Drink up! Water is good for everybody and every body.

If you are a firm believer in waterproof sunscreen, don’t believe it! You won’t get full protection from sun block for more than two hours without reapplying it.
Further your water safety education. Check with your local Red Cross, YMCA, or library and enroll in CPR classes. Even if you have taken the class before, you should continue to update your knowledge because techniques on saving lives are constantly changing.

Here are a few helpful tips to remember before stepping out this summer: Wear sunscreen; bring insect repellent; drink plenty of water; and, once more, never enter the water alone.

About Ocean Health Initiatives: OHI, a federally qualified health center (FQHC), with locations at 101 Second Street, Lakewood, and 301 Lakehurst Road, Toms River, provides comprehensive preventative and primary care, including pediatric, maternal and child health, prenatal, WIC, universal immunizations, and dental health to the area’s uninsured, underinsured, and undocumented, residents on a sliding-fee scale, based on an individual’s or family ability to pay. OHI has a bilingual staff available to assist patients and callers. To become a patient of OHI, call a representative in the Call Center at either 732-552-0377, Toms River, or 732-363-6655, Lakewood. Visit www.ohinj.org. for further information.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

OHI Officially Opened Renovated Facility and Dedicated Reception Center in Honor of Mayor Coles

2008-07-13T16:24:00.001-04:00

The public joined Dr. Theresa Berger, CEO and president of Ocean Health Initiatives, Inc. (OHI), and the Board of Directors for the official grand opening of OHI’s newly renovated Lakewood facility, 101 Second Street, Lakewood, Wednesday, July 9, 2008, 10:00 a.m.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony and the dedication of The Raymond G. Coles Reception Center began at 10:00 a.m. An open house and tours of the new facility were available until noon.

The new state-of-the-art facility boasts four new patient service areas that increase the number of patients who can be scheduled.

Speakers included New Jersey Senator Robert W. Singer and Dr. Berger who both praised many people for the growth and development of OHI and its dedication to those who need healthcare in Ocean County. Comcast,WOBM, and Jorge Rod, the editor of Latinos Unidos, were also on hand to mark this momentous ocassion.

Dr. Berger said, “This is a great opportunity to celebrate a much needed addition to our community and to learn more about OHI’s plans for further development and growth."

For more information about OHI, contact Dianne Ferguson, executive assistant at the administrative offices of OHI, at (732) 719-9022.

About Ocean Health Initiatives
OHI, a federally qualified health center (FQHC), with locations at 101 Second Street, Lakewood and 301 Lakehurst Road, Toms River, provides comprehensive preventative and primary care, including pediatrics, maternal and child health, prenatal, WIC, universal immunizations, and dental health to the area's uninsured, underinsured, and undocumented residents on a sliding-fee scale, based on an individual's or family's ability to pay. OHI has a bilingual staff available to assist patients and callers. To become a patient of OHI, call a representative in the Call Center at either 732-552-0377, Toms River, or 732-363-6655, Lakewood. Visit www.ohinj.org. for further information.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Third Doctor of Obstetrics and Gynecology Joins OHI

2008-07-13T16:23:00.001-04:00

Dr. Sharon Smith, Mays Landing, N.J., has become the third doctor of gynecology and obstetrics to join the staff of Ocean Health Initiatives (OHI), a federally qualified health center (FQHC) with locations at 101 Second Street, Lakewood and 301 Lakehurst Road, Toms River.

Dr. Theresa Berger, president and CEO of OHI, says, “We are hoping to add another three ob/gyns to our staff by the fall. Last year, OHI doctors delivered almost a 1000 babies in Ocean County.”

Before joining OHI, Dr. Smith was a physician at Toms River OB-GYN Associates. Her experience includes a residency at Jamaica Hospital in New York and a concentration in gynecology oncology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York. Dr. Smith received her M.D. from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, and her B. S. degree in zoology at Howard University, Washington, D.C. She holds a New Jersey State license.

Dr. Smith will be working out of the Lakewood and Toms River offices of OHI, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For further information call either 732-552-0377, Toms River, or 732-363-6655, Lakewood; or visit www.ohinj.org.

About Ocean Health Initiatives
OHI, a federally qualified health center (FQHC), with locations at 101 Second Street, Lakewood and 301 Lakehurst Road, Toms River, provides comprehensive preventative and primary care, including pediatrics, maternal and child health, prenatal, WIC, universal immunizations, and dental health to the area's uninsured, underinsured, and undocumented residents on a sliding-fee scale, based on an individual's or family's ability to pay. OHI has a bilingual staff available to assist patients and callers. To become a patient of OHI, call a representative in the Call Center at either 732-552-0377, Toms River, or 732-363-6655, Lakewood. Visit www.ohinj.org. for further information.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Hear “The Truth about Tarantulas” at Ozane’s Insectropolis Bug Museum

2008-07-13T16:21:00.001-04:00

Did you know the mayor of Insectroplis, a Bugseum, is Rosie the Rose-haired Tarantula*? Just how bad is the bite, if at all, of a tarantula? Is it true tarantulas can kill animals as large as lizards, mice, or birds?

Learn “The Truth about Tarantulas” on July 19 and again on August 16 at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at “Saturdays in Summer,” weekly Bug Talks sponsored by Ozane’s Insectropolis Bugseum, 1761 Route 9 North, Toms River. All programs are free with an admission fee of $7.00 a person. Children age two and under are free. Free guided tours will be given at 11:oo a.m. and 1:00 p.m. immediately following program Call Chris Koerner, curator of Insectroplis, at 732-349-7090 for further information.

Mike Cummings, Lakewood, an arachnid enthusiast since he was nine years old, will share a lot of information most people don’t know about tarantulas during his presentation. Attendees will also have an opportunity to touch Rosie the Rose-haired Tarantula.

Cummings, who is an education major at Georgian Court University and the primary zookeeper at Insectropolis, is responsible for caring for the hundreds of live arthropods at Insectropolis. Cummings first became interested in tarantulas when his mother gave him one when he was nine. Cummings is also traveling throughout New Jersey presenting the "Bugs on The Go" program to libraries, schools, and other educational facilities.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Bugfest 2008 Holds Successful Fundraiser for Rotary Scholarships

2008-07-13T16:17:00.001-04:00

They ate bugs at the Caterpillar Café, they touched them, they raced them, they elected a bug Mayor of Insectropolis, and they raised $1500.00 toward scholarships at the 2008 Bugfest, a fundraising event held recently at Ozane’s Insectropolis, 1761Route 9 North, Toms River.

According to Rotary member Christopher Koerner, curator of the bug museum Insectropolis, the roach races during which cockroaches named Clinton, Obama, and McCain raced other cockroaches to the finish line seemed to be the most exciting event for families. “I don’t know what this means,” says Koerner, “but the cockroach Chuck Norris won the races most often.”

Kids also like touching the bugs,” said Koerner. Their favorites were a giant African millipede, a Madagascar hissing cockroach, a rose-hair tarantula, and an Emperor scorpion.” The kids elected Rosie the Rose-haired Tarantula* the Mayor of Insectropolis for 2008.”

Members of the Central Ocean Rotary, who provided food for event workers, sold hot dogs, hamburgers, soft drinks, and funnel cakes to raise scholarship money. Others who helped make the day successful were representatives from Cattus Island County Park; Master Gardeners of Ocean County; Herbertsville Honey Company; Ron Kinoian, the bug race announcer; and the Koerner family.

Proceeds from the second annual Bugfest, supported by Ozane Pest Control and the Central Ocean Rotary Club, will go toward scholarships for students in the Toms River high schools and Monsignor Donovan High School. For further information, contact Koerner at 732-349-7090.

*Rosie is a Chilean Rose-haired Tarantula, found in deserts and scrub lands of Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile. Because of their docile and predictable behavior, rose-hairs have become a favorite species among beginning tarantula hobbyists. Rose-haired tarantulas are a fairly slow growing species, taking up to four years to reach maturity. Adults will range in size, but the average leg span is 4 to 5 inches, with the occasional female getting slightly larger. Unfortunately males of this species seldom live more than eight years. Females however, can easily live to be 15 years old, and 20-year-old rose-hairs are not unheard of. Unlike some spiders, rose-hairs do not build webs. They hunt prey using venom to incapacitate small rodents or insects. If a tarantula has been injured (i.e. lost a leg) it can regenerate that limb through a system of molts.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

“Tips for First Home Buyers” at June Young Professionals’ Meeting

2008-06-10T11:52:00.000-04:00

Young Professionals, a support group open to all young professionals and college graduates in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties, and a committee of the Lakewood Chamber, will hold its monthly meeting, on Tuesday, June 20, 2008, at Connolly Station, 711 Main Street, Belmar, N.J. from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. Bill Cordivari, First Hallmark Marketing Corporation, Somerset, N.J. will present “Tips for First Home Buyers.”

To register, contact Jennifer Allegra at 646-391-3737. The preregistration cost is $20.00, $25.00 at the door, and includes a hora d”oeuvres, door prizes, and unlimited networking. Cash bar only

Plan to Cruise the Caribbean This January

2008-06-05T13:48:00.001-04:00

The ship is magnificent, the cruise to the Caribbean is fun and relaxing, but the deadline for this Janurary cruise is July 14.

JAS Travel is offering a seven-night Southern Caribbean cruise, January 17-24, 2009, with Celebrity Cruise Line on the magnificent ship "The Summit."

The itinerary includes San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Roseau, Dominica; St. George’s, Grenada; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Oranjestad, and Aruba. The price of the staterooms include all port charges, taxes, fuel charges, and airport transfers. Please note that the prices quoted are for the Cabin Total, not per person.

The inside cabin rate is $1725.14, double occupancy. A balcony stateroom is only $2210.14, double occupancy. A concierge class stateroom is $2410.14,double occupancy.

The fixed price for a group rate on Continental from Newark is $430.80 per person round trip. Keep in mind that extra charges for air fuel may apply.

These prices are valid until July 14, 2008. Space is limited at these prices. For insurance, please call for pricing.

Jeannie Schlameuss, JAS Travel (traveljeannie@optonline.net) www.jastravel.jurni.net
Phone: 732-363-0899; Cell:732-539-9054

OHI Officially Opens Renovated Facility and Dedicates Reception Center in Honor of Mayor Coles

2008-06-05T13:17:00.000-04:00

The public is invited to join Dr. Theresa Berger, CEO and president of Ocean Health Initiatives, Inc. (OHI), and the Board of Directors for the official grand opening of OHI’s newly renovated Lakewood facility, 101 Second Street, Lakewood, Wednesday, July 9, 2008, 10:00 a.m.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony and the dedication of The Raymond G. Coles Reception Center will begin at 10:00 a.m. An open house and tours of the new facility will be available until noon. The new state-of-the-art facility boasts four new patient service areas that increase the number of patients who can be scheduled.

Speakers include New Jersey Senator Robert W. Singer; Dr. Berger; Dr. Carmen Mallamaci, chief medical officer; and, Nancy Robinson, director of human resources and public relations. Light refreshments will be served, and an information booth will be set up for questions and literature about OHI.

Dr. Berger says, “This is a great opportunity to celebrate a much needed addition to our community and to learn more about OHI’s plans for further development and growth. We sincerely hope that you will join us as we celebrate the opening of our beautiful newly renovated facility, and the dedication of The Raymond G. Coles Reception Center."

To R.S.V.P. or for more information, contact Dianne Ferguson, executive assistant at the administrative offices of OHI, at (732) 719-9022.

About Ocean Health Initiatives
OHI, a federally qualified health center (FQHC), with locations at 101 Second Street, Lakewood and 301 Lakehurst Road, Toms River, provides comprehensive preventative and primary care, including pediatrics, maternal and child health, prenatal, WIC, universal immunizations, and dental health to the area's uninsured, underinsured, and undocumented residents on a sliding-fee scale, based on an individual's or family's ability to pay. OHI has a bilingual staff available to assist patients and callers. To become a patient of OHI, call a representative in the Call Center at either 732-552-0377, Toms River, or 732-363-6655, Lakewood. Visit www.ohinj.org. for further information. ###

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Buy Your Tickets NOW!!!

2008-05-28T21:07:00.000-04:00

“Food! Glorious food! We’re anxious to try it!” You can sample some delicious food prepared by more than 50 local men of distinction at the 16th Annual “Look Who’s Cooking” food-tasting festival, Friday evening, June 6, 2008, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Christ Episcopal Church, Washington Street, Toms River, N.J. Tickets cost $45.00 and can be purchased at the door. To buy your tickets now, call The Family Planning Center at (732) 364-9696.

All proceeds will benefit The Family Planning Center of Ocean County, a nonprofit organization that has provided education and medical services to women since 1971.

Look Who’s Cooking is a major fundraiser and a necessity to continue helping uninsured and underinsured women in Ocean County at the Family Planning Center, River Avenue, Lakewood. Last year, more than 50 men, all amateur chefs—doctors, lawyers, accountants, business owners, and government officials—offered a sample of their favorite recipe to more than 200 hungry guests and raised more than $17,000.00 for women’s health issues, including cancer screenings and educational counseling.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Men Help Raise Funds for Family Planning Center of Ocean County

2008-05-14T16:14:00.000-04:00

The 16th Annual Look Who’s Cooking food-tasting festival will take place on Friday evening, June 6, 2008, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Christ Episcopal Church, Washington Street, Toms River, N.J. Tickets cost $45.00 and can be purchased at the door. Look Who’s Cooking is a major fundraiser and a necessity to continue helping uninsured and underinsured women in Ocean County at the Family Planning Center, River Avenue, Lakewood.

Last year, more than 50 men, all amateur chefs—doctors, lawyers, accountants, business owners, and government officials—offered a sample of their favorite recipe to more than 200 hungry guests and raised more than $17,000.00 for women’s health issues, including cancer screenings and educational counseling.

The Family Planning Center of Ocean County is a nonprofit organization that has provided education and medical services to women since 1971. To purchase tickets ahead of time, to advertise in the ad journal, or to participate as a chef, please contact The Family Planning Center at (732) 364-9696.

P.S. It's not too late to be a chef. Join a distinguished group of men who will be serving mouth-watering samples of food by calling (732) 364-9696 to sign up today.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Hygienist Celebrates 10th Anniversary

2008-05-14T15:32:00.000-04:00

Many patients that Margaret R. McElwee, Point Pleasant Beach, has been treating for the past ten years at the Toms River dental office of Dr. Ron Rotem recently gathered to celebrate McElwee’s 10th anniversary as their hygienist.

“Doctor Rotem, his wife Janett, and the staff decided to celebrate my anniversary by having a social gathering of patients that I have been treating for ten years in my tenth year,” says McElwee. Some patients are afraid and have very high anxiety when they visit the dentist; but when you get to know somebody, you get to feel comfortable with them, which makes them feel more at home and less stressed. That has always been my goal.”

As a dental hygienist, McElwee does general cleanings of the teeth and some periodontal maintenance. Before joining Dr. Rotem’s practice, McElwee worked at Monmouth Medical Center and in East Orange at VA hospital where she was the coordinator in the dental department. At the VA hospital, she received an award for her work in early detection of multiple oral cancers in more than 100 patients. “I had an affinity for finding oral cancer in the early stages so they gave me a recognition and then an award.”

McElwee, who graduated from Point Pleasant Beach High School, received an A.A. in dental hygiene from Fairleigh Dickerson University, Teaneck. A research paper McElwee wrote about xerostomia or dry mouth was published in the Critical Care Nursing Magazine around 1986. She later attended Georgian Court University, working toward a B.S. in biology.

McElwee is licensed and certified for nitrus oxide (laughing gas), a form of sedation. She belongs to the Women’s VFW Association in Point Pleasant Beach.

McElwee says, “I enjoy my job and I have enjoyed meeting patients and having actual relationships with them for over ten years. Basically, you get to know them so well it’s like they become part of your family.”

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

OHI Honored Toms River Mayor Thomas Kelaher with Its First Annual Community Recognition Award

2008-05-14T15:30:00.000-04:00

Dr. Theresa Berger, CEO of Ocean Health Initiatives (OHI), and Senator Robert Singer, recently presented the first annual OHI Community Service Recognition Award to The Honorable Thomas F. Kelaher, Mayor of Toms River at a cocktail reception at Eagle Ridge Golf Club, Lakewood.

The board of OHI instituted an annual Community Recognition to honor community leaders who actively support quality health care for Ocean County residents. Mayor Kelaher received the award because he is an advocate for heathcare reform and has dedicated more than 15 years of his career to oversee the coordination and development of healthcare systems in Ocean County.

In introducing Mayor Kalaher, Dr. Theresa Berger, CEO of OHI, said, “Mayor Kelaher’s vision and leadership have been instrumental in helping OHI and others meet the daily challenges of bringing quality healthcare to Ocean County’s residents.”
Senator Singer said in presenting the Community Recognition Award, “Tom has dedicated his volunteer life to healthcare services in Ocean County. He has always realized that healthcare needs are the responsibility of all of us.”

OHI is a Federally Qualified Health Center, in Lakewood and Toms River, dedicated to delivering accessible and affordable primary medical care to the neediest populations in Ocean County. The services of OHI include pediatrics, adult internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, dental health, social services, and podiatry. OHI is open 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. OHI has a bilingual staff available to assist patients and callers.

At the reception, Dr. Berger announced the addition of a new Mobile Healthcare Unit.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Earth Day Donations of “E-Waste” Benefit LADACIN

2008-05-14T15:21:00.000-04:00

What better way to celebrate Earth Day than by helping to save the environment and donate to a worthy cause at the same time. Employees from SAMR (Supreme Asset Management and Recovery), an e-waste recycling and remarketing company, and volunteers from LADACIN Network, a nonprofit organization that provides education, therapy, social, residential, and support services for people with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities, were on hand to accept no-longer-used electronics and $5.00 donations for LADACIN Network and the Lehmann School in Lakewood during an Earth Day recycling event and fundraiser sponsored by SAMR.

Because of the generosity of people who donated their electronics and $5.00 per car load of electronics, Kirsten Difenderfer, the director of customer service for SAMR, presented a check to Patricia Carlesimo, executive director of the Schroth School and Technical Education Center, and Luisa Vroman, Director of Development for LADACIN, with a check for $512.00 matched by Al Boufarah, president of SAMR.

Luisa Vroman said, “It was so thoughtful of SAMR to include us in their recycling event in recognition of Earth Day 2008. The staff of LADACIN plans to use the money to purchase a video camera to tape school shows, therapy, and special events, such as graduation.”

SAMR, located at 1950 Rutgers University Boulevard, Lakewood, holds two recycling events each year for private citizens. Charles McFadden, vice president of operations at SAMR, says, “Our goal is to keep e-waste and all the toxic elements they contain from going into landfills. Most people are not aware that monitors and televisions alone contain three to five pounds of lead.”

For further information, call Brianne Douglas, director of asset management, at 732-97-8177.

SAMR (Supreme Asset Management & Recovery), Lakewood, N.J., is the largest fully licensed American IT asset management company on the East Coast and the largest CRT glass-to-glass recycler in the country, providing disposal solutions for IT and guaranteed security for corporations and businesses. SAMR is a leader in the recycling and remarketing of electronics, and guarantees a zero landfill policy.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

SAMR Receives the 2008 Silver Gull Award for Economic Development

2008-05-14T15:11:00.000-04:00

The MODC (Monmouth Ocean Development Council), Wall, N.J., has awarded, SAMR (Supreme Asset Management & Recovery) its 2008 Economic Development Award for SAMR’s exceptional contribution to the growth and development of the business community in Monmouth and Ocean counties.

SAMR recycles and remarkets all electronics, such as computers, laptops, monitors, printers, i-Pods, cell phones, TV’s, VCRs, and batteries, among others, for corporations, businesses, and municipalities; and keeps electronics out of landfills where the toxic elements in them can seep into the ground and the water supply.

The management of SAMR contributes to the education of businessmen and community leaders by being a recycling resource and by speaking at conferences. Charles McFadden, vice president of business development, is frequently quoted for his expertise in RFID technology, and glass-to-glass and electronics recycling.

Eighteen years ago, SAMR employed eight people in a 10,000 square foot facility. Today SAMR occupies a 100,000 square foot building at 1950 Rutgers University Boulevard, Lakewood, N.J., and employs 150 people. SAMR is now considered the largest fully licensed American IT asset management company on the East Coast and the largest CRT glass-to-glass recycler in the country, with locations in three states: Lakewood, N.J., Richmond, Va., and Shirley, Mass.

As a leader and an environmentally responsible company committed to keeping the environment safe from toxins generated by e-waste, SAMR maintains a zero landfill policy. In addition, SAMR also guarantees the complete erasure of hard drives and total IT security.

As a public service, SAMR and its staff participate in events to educate the community about recycling electronics. The company holds two recycling events a year during which New Jersey communities are encouraged to donate their “old” electronics. SAMR provides the labor, the transportation, the packaging, and the recycling of all equipment.

SAMR gives tours of its facility, including the recycling process, to the public and hosts a quarterly tour for Rutgers University students seeking to become recycling coordinators for their towns. SAMR also assists townships and governments in their recycling efforts.

Senator Robert W. Singer, co-chair of MODC’s Silver Gull award ceremony who presented the 2008 Silver Gull Award for Economic Development among other governmental citations to Al Boufarah, president and CEO of SAMR, and Brianne Douglas, director of asset management, said, “This award is in recognition of your outstanding and invaluable service to the community. It is really an eye opening factor that this facility exists in our town of Lakewood and does such a phenomenal job.”

“Every community should be blessed to have a company like Supreme Asset Management & Recovery in their town,” said the Honorable Raymond Coles, Mayor of Lakewood. “It’s (SAMR) an incredible organization not only because they do so much to protect us and our children from a lot of the waste products that are just the byproducts of our lives today, but because they are such great people. There’s not an organization in town that has come to them for help that has been turned away.”

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Celebrate the Beginning of Summer with Young Professionals

2008-05-14T15:08:00.000-04:00

Young Professionals, a support group open to all young professionals and college graduates in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties, and a committee of the Lakewood Chamber, will hold its monthly meeting, on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at Bar A, 711 Main Street, Belmar, N.J. from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The cost is $20.00 at the door and includes a barbeque buffet, door prizes, and unlimited networking. Cash bar only. To register, contact Jennifer Allegra at 646-391-3737.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Strategies for Employee Recognition - June JSAHR Meeting

2008-05-14T14:52:00.000-04:00

Dr. Gene Simko, associate professor of management at Monmouth University, will show attendees how to reward, recognize, and thank people successfully during a professional managerial briefing on Thursday, June 12, 2008, 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., at the monthly meeting of JSAHR (Jersey Shore Association for Human Resources), Jumping Brook Country Club, 210 Jumping Brook Road, Neptune, N.J.

Dr. Simko will explain strategies for employee recognition from formal programs to ad hoc daily routines designed to keep the work environment teeming with highly motivated people. Learn to revitalize the most important aspect of employee motivation—recognition for a job well done.

The registration fee and a full buffet breakfast cost $25.00 for JSAHR members; $35.00for nonmembers; $15.00 for those in transition; and an additional $5.00 for walk-ins. To register, call Kathi Evans, JSAHR administrator, at 732-244-8892 or e-mail jsahradmin@atbcelebrations.com. JSAHR is a Superior Merit Award Chapter of SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management).

Dr. Simko has conducted extensive management consulting and training with both corporate and public institutions, including the FBI. He teaches courses in strategic management and operations planning and control. He is acting president of the International Council on Innovation in Higher Education (ICIE), Toronto, Canada; and has published two editions of a textbook with Thompson Course Technology on business and the Internet.

Dr. Simko has been a faculty member at the School of Business of Monmouth University for thirty years. He holds a B.B.A. in economics, an M.B.A. in management science from Temple University, and a Ph.D. in strategic management from Baruch College of the City University of New York. He attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and holds a commission in the United States Army Reserve, Adjutant Generals Corps.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

SCORE Offers Free Hands-on Workshop: How to Write a Financial Plan

2008-05-14T14:46:00.001-04:00

Entrepreneurs who would like to create a financial plan can learn to develop one at a free workshop “How to Prepare a Successful Financial Plan,” sponsored by SCORE Chapter 36 of Monmouth County, on Monday, June 9, 2008, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Monmouth County Library, Eastern Branch, 1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury.
Joseph Wasilewski, who served as Chief Financial Officer for several corporations before owning and operating his own CPA firm in 1989, will help attendees understand and develop income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow projections, important tools for managing a business and for obtaining financing.

SCORE 36 Chapter counselors, successful entrepreneurs skilled in the preparation and evaluation of business plans, will be on hand for this second in a series of hands-on workshops related to business plan preparation.

Participants should register online at www.score36.org or call the Monmouth County Library at 732-842-5995 or SCORE Chapter 36 office at (732) 219-9119. In all instances, an e-mail address or mailing address is required.

For further information contact SCORE at www.score36.org, or the Middletown Library at 732 671-3700 Ext. 320, or leave a message at the SCORE office on the Brookdale Community College campus at 732-219-9119. SCORE Chapter 36 is an affiliate of the Small Business Administration.

SCORE Chapter 36 of Monmouth County, a national nonprofit organization and a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), is located on the campus of Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, New Jersey. To help entrepreneurs and small business owners, more than 40 chapter members provide such services as confidential, one-to-one guidance and information free of charge on a full range of business topics.

Business people, who would like to volunteer their time and expertise to help start new businesses or help existing businesses grow, are always welcome. Visit www.score36.org for more information.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises

Bugfest 2008 at Insectropolis Raises Money for Scholarships--Supported by Ozane Pest Control and Central Ocean Rotary Club

2008-05-14T14:41:00.001-04:00

Eat a bug, race a bug, or even see like a bug at 2008 Bugfest, a fundraising event for high school scholarships, that will bug you out with many indoor and outdoor events at Ozane’s Insectropolis, 1761 Route 9 North, Toms River, Sunday, June 22, 2008,from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is $7.00 a person. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $5.00 a person by calling 732-349-7090. Children age two and under are free.

Proceeds from the second annual Bugfest, supported by Ozane Pest Control and the Central Ocean Rotary Club, will provide scholarships for one student in each of the Toms River high schools and Monsignor Donovan High School. According to Christopher Koerner, curator of Bugfest and a member of Rotary, this event raised $3000.00 for scholarships last year. “We would like to raise more than $6000.00 this year,” says Koerner.

One highlight will certainly be the Roach Race during which cockroaches named Clinton, Obama, and McCain will race other cockroaches to the finish line. Those who correctly pick the winner can enter a drawing for other prizes.

Attendees who are feeling especially brave can dine on barbeque-flavored beetle larva at the Caterpillar Café. Downing the tasty bugs will earn diners a membership in the Eat-a-bug Club and an Eat-a-bug sticker. Some activities, among many others, include Buzzerk Bean Bag Toss wearing glasses that make you see like an insect; holding insects, such as hissing cockroaches, scorpions, tarantulas, and giant African Millipedes; and viewing specimens under a microscope. Children can win a free birthday party at Insectropolis for themselves and 15 guests by voting for the first Bug Mayor of Insectropolis.

For further information, contact Koerner at 732-349-0559.

Submitted by Fran Kirschner, Frantasy Enterprises