Freeholder Virginia Haines, Chairman of Ocean County Parks and Recreation announced they will be conducting a bus trip to explore Philadelphia on Thursday, March 7.  The theme of the Flower Show is “Flower Power”.

The bus will depart from the Ocean County Park in Lakewood at 8:00 AM for a day in the city to discover the historic and museum area attractions on your own or attend the Flower Show at the Convention Center. We will return To Lakewood at approximately 6:00 PM.  You will receive a map of the area, and will be dropped off at the Flower Show and in the Historic district. 

To register, send a check for $35.00 per person, made payable to:  County of Ocean and mail to Ocean County Parks & Recreation, 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, NJ  08753.  The fee includes the bus transportation only, any admissions or tours are on your own.  The approximate fee for the flower show is $31.00.

Please note program # Flwr19. Visit the website at www.oceancountyparks.org for more information.  The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders sponsors this event.  Call 1-877-OCPARKS for information or to be placed on the Newsletter mailing list.

“Like” us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram

The post Philadelphia Flower Show & Historic District appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Riley Chenoweth-Hafner, a 17-year-old Southern Regional High School junior from Manahawkin in Ocean County, was named the 2019 New Jersey Equestrian of the Year by the New Jersey Equine Advisory Board on January 27 at the 62^nd Annual New Jersey Breeders’ Luncheon in Hamilton.  She represented New Jersey Pony Breeders and Owners.

As Equestrian of the Year, Riley will attend functions hosted by the New Jersey Equine Advisory Board and represent the Board at various events.

“Riley’s distinguished work with horses in a dedicated and compassionate manner shows why she has been chosen to represent the industry as the Equestrian of the Year,” said New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher. “Her love for horses started at a young age and she will be a proud ambassador for the Garden State and an outstanding role model to encourage children and others who are interested in equine activities.”

Riley took her first riding lessons at age 8. She went on to be the New Jersey 4-H First Runner-up for Equestrian of the Year in 2019 and the Ocean County Equestrian of the Year in each of the last four years and has been involved in the 4-H Horse Program since she was 9. She also has been on the National 4-H Roundup Communications and Horse Judging teams, has been a judge for the New England Regionals Communications competition the last two years, a judge at the American Quarter Horse Congress and is President of the Equine Science 4-H Club in Ocean County. She also has volunteered as a ring steward for Olympic Qualifiers at the Horse Park of New Jersey and worked on the ring crew for Central Jersey Horse Shows.

“I was very excited to be named Equestrian of the Year,” Chenoweth-Hafner said. “Most of the people who were competing for this honor, I know them personally and I know how good they are and I knew it was going to be a very, very hard contest against very good people. I was very surprised when I did win.”

What’s not a surprise is that this Equestrian of the Year has long felt a special connection with horses.

“I think probably what made me fall in love with horses is that whenever I was around them, it felt like they understood everything I was saying,” she said. “It’s like they can relate to me and understand my emotions. It kind of grew my love for them. They seem to love me just as much as I love them.”

Riley’s specific love for equine is being involved with rescues. She has a rescue pony named Dante and has done extensive work with her thoroughbred named Rocky, a rescue she has been working with for three years. Riley said Rocky is now ready to start doing some shows.

“Rocky had a lot of issues with being scared so my main goal has been to get him into a show ring,” Riley said. “Mostly I train him to get him used to the sights and sounds. We went to a show in the beginning of last fall and that was his first big show. We slowly worked him up to that and we are hoping to do more showing this summer.”

Riley is also involved in school activities. She has played goalie for her middle school and high school soccer teams and is a member of the German and Science clubs at her high school. She hopes to attend Stockton University after graduation from Southern Regional High School and then eventually become a veterinarian. She said being involved with horses has helped her understand the importance of patience with herself and others.

“When you are training a young horse, you can do something one day and they get it, and then come back the next day and they may act like they have never seen that lesson,” Riley said. “You have to work on their terms, not yours. It’s taught me to not get uptight when something doesn’t go right. I’ve learned to take a step back, relax, and then go forward again.”

The post OCEAN COUNTY TEEN NAMED 2019 EQUESTRIAN OF THE YEAR appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the Lakewood BlueClaws announced an expanded community partnership that includes a Girl Scout Family Night scheduled at FirstEnergy Park in Lakewood on Friday, June 21, at 7:05 p.m. Thousands of Girl Scouts of all ages, their families and friends will participate in the evening that will feature activities that showcase programming offered by Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the impact those programs make in girls’ lives.

The baseball game is the signature 2019 event of the updated partnership between the Girl Scouts and the BlueClaws. “The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore have always enjoyed the strong support of the BlueClaws,” said Eileen M. Higgins, CEO, Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “Our new community partnership takes our collaboration to another level and will directly benefit our girls.”

Staff from both the Girl Scouts and the BlueClaws are working closely together to ensure the game against the West Virginia Power is unlike any other Girl Scout baseball experience. Planned highlights include pre-game and in-game activities such as an on-field parade, contests, exciting Girl Scout exhibitions and post-game fireworks. Gates open for pre-game activities at 6:00 p.m.

“The BlueClaws are very excited to partner with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore for what promises to be a full night of fun on June 21st,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Girl Scouts and their families from all around the Shore will be able to take part in the best of the BlueClaws – from the boardwalk games, to great food, and fantastic post-game fireworks show!”

Tickets for Girl Scout Night are $11 each and include a hotdog, fountain soda, ice cream and one free boardwalk game. There is an optional on-field overnight open to registered Girl Scouts for an additional $10 and includes a movie, snacks and continental breakfast the following morning. Ticket proceeds will benefit local programs and activities for Girl Scouts from Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit BlueClaws.com/GirlScouts. For groups of 20 or more, please contact Elias Riginos, Group Sales Manager, at (732) 901-7000 ex. 125.

About Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore serves more than 10,000 girls ages 5-18 in Monmouth and Ocean counties, providing a time-tested leadership experience that inspires and motivates them to take action for themselves and their communities. For over 100 years, Girl Scouts has helped girls become women of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For information on how to join, volunteer, partner or donate, visitJerseyShoreGirlScouts.org or call (800) 785-2090.

About the BlueClaws 

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Having drawn over 7.3 million fans since 2001, they recently opened a brand-new Family Mini Golf Course, Toyota World of Lakewood Home Run Pavilion featuring top boardwalk games, and Biergarten at FirstEnegy Park.

Opening Night, presented by Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, at FirstEnergy Park is Thursday, April 4th at 6:35 pm. 2019 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. 

The post Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Announce Community Partnership with Lakewood BlueClaws appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Shuffle Up and Draw!

April 13, 2019 6-11pm

Captains Inn 
East Lacey Road
Forked River, NJ  08731
United States of America

Who will be crowned the winner of this year’s Annual Texas Hold Em’ Tournament!

Join us for an evening of fun, gambling,and fellowship.

Night of Play for Texas Hold em Tournament

Hold’em ticket is $100.00 for one player seat. 

Guests can attend free to watch player and/or play Blackjack.

There will be Blackjack play starting at 6:00 PM.  No advance tickets needed for Blackjack.

There are re-buys and one add-on.  Re-Buys are available only during first hour of play from

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.  That’s it.  At 8:00 PM there is a 15 minute break with food served.  At 8:00 PM an Add-on is available (see below) and then when play begins at 8:15 PM there will be no more rebuys or add on’s throughout the remainder of the tournament. Once eliminated after 8:00 PM then please participate in our wonderful gift auction black jack play. 

Sponsor:  Rotary Club of Forked River   Benefits:  Local Charities  Holiday Programs  Elf Programs

Registration:  Begins at 6:00 PM  Black Jack and Gift Auction begins at 6:00 PM 

Hold’em Poker Tournament Begins at 7:00 PM

After first break (At 8:00 PM)  Food station available  FREE!

Cash Bar Available

The post Annual Texas Hold Em’ Tournament & Casino Night appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Walnut Street Theatre’s 2018-19 Independence Studio on 3 season concludes with the captivating narratives and beautiful musical arrangements of CIVIL WAR VOICES. Written by James R. Harris and directed by Bill Van Horn, the production begins previews on April 23, opens April 25, and continues through May 26.

“This is our true story and these are our words.” With this line, a cast of actor/musicians immerse us in the compelling, passionate, and true stories of real people from both sides of our country’s most divisive conflict. In their own words taken straight from the writings they left behind, this insightful and stirring play with music brings to life a deeply human celebration of what makes us American.

As the Civil War took the nation by storm, Alabama plantation owner Joseph Harris watched the political landscape of the United States make a dramatic shift. He took to his journal to document what he felt and saw as the country was engulfed in war. Several years later Joseph’s great-great-nephew, James R. Harris, discovered the existence of this very same diary and felt inspired to share the remarkable first-hand accounts of Joseph and four other individuals. Although a lawyer by trade, Harris tapped into his great passion for musical theatre and years of experience as a performer to create the production. Set to original arrangements of the unique music of the period by award-winning composer Mark Hayes, CIVIL WAR VOICES came to fruition.

“It occurred to me that other people and other Americans probably kept journals and letters,” said Harris in an interview with the Lincoln Journal Star. “The idea struck me that this could be a musical, a potentially moving musical.”

Bill Van Horn returns to the Walnut Street Theatre to direct CIVIL WAR VOICES. At the Walnut, he directed A Christmas Carol, Peter and the Starcatcher, Around the World in 80 Days, The Glass Menagerie and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, the Walnut Street Theatre’s current Mainstage production. He has also appeared on stage in numerous other Walnut productions, including: Annie, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, The Wizard of Oz, A Christmas Story, Mary Poppins, Elf, and Fiddler on the Roof.

In addition to the six lead characters at the heart of CIVIL WAR VOICES, the multi-talented cast of Walnut Street Theatre veterans form an ensemble tasked with portraying more than 20 diverse characters. Ben Shepard (Holiday Inn) assumes the role of Joseph Harris, a cotton planter and James Harris’ granduncle. Matthew Mastronardi (Peter and the Starcatcher) and Laura Giknis (Matilda) play Theo and Harriet Perry, a young married couple separated by the war. Former slave and close friend of Mary Todd Lincoln, Elizabeth Keckley, will be portrayed by Jessica Johnson (Oleanna), and college professor turned Union soldier, Joshua Chamberlain, will be played by Damon Bonetti (It’s A Wonderful Life). Nichalas L. Parker (The Wizard of Oz) completes the cast as the Narrator, serving as the audience’s guide throughout the production.

From an Alabama plantation to the brutal battlefield at Gettysburg, scenic designer Andrew Thompson’s transformative set allows the show to transition between more than 20 locations through the use of unique props and clever stage direction. Serving 13 seasons as technical director for the Walnut Street Theatre’s Studio on 3, Thompson has constructed a rustic attic complete with the somber greys and blues of the war, dilapidated wooden overhead beams and worn sofas that double as seating for front row audience members to create a sense of total immersion.

Costume Designer and Assistant Costume Shop Manager Rebecca Dwight joins Thompson on the production team. Dwight’s previous work at the Walnut includes Oleanna and It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Lighting Designer J. Dominic Chacon (Peter and the Star Catcher, Red) and Sound Designer John Kolbinski (The Winter Wonderettes, Baskerville, Souvenir) round out the company.

The 2018-19 sponsor for the Independence Studio on 3 season is the Independence Foundation. Media season sponsors are Philly Weekly and WRTI Radio. Tickets are $40 and are now available at 215-574-3550 or 800-982-2787. Tickets are also available at walnutstreettheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com.

The post CIVIL WAR VOICES appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Spring is on the way. For many of us, the increasingly longer days and warmer weather signify a chance to tidy up and start fresh. If you enjoy the ritual of spring cleaning, why not take time to spruce up your finances as well? The following list is a great place to start:

1–Your goals. If you set New Year’s financial resolutions, now is a good time to evaluate your progress. If you’re on track – excellent! If you’re not where you hoped you’d be, recommit to your goals. Identify what obstacles are in your way and create a plan to overcome them. If you need help deciding what to do next or how to stay on course going forward, consider meeting with a financial advisor who can provide you with a second opinion and help keep you accountable to your progress.  

2–Your portfolio. As you evaluate your financial goals, it may be helpful to also review your portfolio, as the two often go hand-in-hand. Take a look at your asset allocation and ask yourself the following questions: Are you still diversified and invested according to your ability to withstand a potential market drop and the timeframe of when you need the money? And, do you understand why you are invested in the assets you have? Answering these questions can help you decide if you need to rebalance your asset allocation or make other adjustments to your investing strategy.

3–Your budget. There’s a good chance that your cash flow needs will vary in the summer months to come. In addition to summer travel, you may need additional funds for things like child care or extracurricular programs while your kids are away from school. Take time to plan ahead now so you can enjoy the summer fun while still feeling confident that you’re prioritizing retirement and other financial goals.

4–Your credit report. Did you know the three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian and TransUnion – are required by law to provide you with one free credit report annually? Make it a habit each spring to check your credit report. Doing so is a good way to ensure accuracy, protect against identity theft, and help you prepare for what interest rate you may receive if you plan to make a big purchase soon (such as a vacation home or new boat).

5–Your protection needs. While de-cluttering, take time to review life, home, auto and disability insurance policies to make sure you are still satisfied with your level of coverage. If you’ve experienced any life-changing events, such as divorce or the birth of a child, it’s possible that your needs have changed.

6–Your benefits. Even though open enrollment is typically in the fall, spring is a good time to make sure the benefits you selected are being maximized. Scheduling regular appointments with medical professionals, your eye doctor and dentist can be a great place to start. Also, check to see if you’re eligible for any elective benefits you’re considering, such as a new pair of eye glasses or orthodontic work.

7–Your estate plan. Estate planning is important regardless of your net worth. It’s never too early to create or update your will, health care directive, beneficiaries and basic powers-of-attorney – all of which can help your loved ones make decisions in line with your wishes in the event of your death. If giving assets to your loved ones and/or reducing your tax liability are important to you, an estate plan can also help you with strategies to accomplish those goals.

As with many spring cleaning projects, it’s possible to get overwhelmed as you review your finances. If this happens to you, step back and take each task one at a time. A financial advisor in your area can also help you get “unstuck” and identify ways to re-energize your finances. #

Daniel Covell, CRPC®, CLTC® is a Financial Advisor and Vice President with RM Financial Management, a fprivate wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in West Creek, NJ.  He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 18 years. To contact him, call his office at (609) 318-8000 x2 or email him at daniel.covell@ampf.com. 1064 S. Main Street, Suite 1A, West Creek NJ 08092. www.ameripriseadvisors.com/daniel.covell

Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.  

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.                 

The post Seven Ways to Clean Your Financial House This Spring appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Professionals in many industries tout their education and professional experience as a way to demonstrate their expertise and set themselves apart. The financial industry is a prime example, with almost 200 professional credentials advisors can obtain to sharpen their ability to serve clients well. If you are searching for a financial advisor and seeking clarity on what the acronyms after each professional’s name means, below is a primer on eight of the most common designations.

Accredited Estate Planner^® –. Advisors seek the AEP^® designation to learn more about designing an estate plan focused on the accumulation, conservation, preservation and transfer of an estate in a way that also helps individuals achieve their estate and wealth management goals.

Accredited Portfolio Management Advisor^SM – Individuals who hold the APMA^® designation have completed a course of study to learn more techniques to create and maintain portfolios for clients. The coursework includes client assessment and suitability, risk/return, investment objectives, bond and equity portfolios, modern portfolio theory and investor psychology.

Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy^® – The CAP^®designation provides professionals in the nonprofit and financial services fields with the knowledge and tools needed to help clients reach their charitable giving objectives while also helping them achieve their estate planning and wealth management goals. The curriculum addresses the advanced design, implementation and management of charitable gift techniques and strategies.

Certified Divorce Financial Analyst^® –The CDFA^® designation is growing in popularity because it helps financial and legal professionals support clients going through or managing assets after divorce. Those with this credential are trained to evaluate the tax implications of dividing property, settlement options for dividing pensions, marital property, awarding of child and spousal support and to help determine the financial needs and outcomes for couples after divorce.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP^®) and Chartered Financial Consultant^® (ChFC^®) –Advisors with either or both credentials have studied key financial planning topics in-depth – including risk management, tax planning, retirement and employee benefits, and estate planning, and insurance – to help develop well-balanced financial strategies for their clients.

Certified Long-Term Care^® – The CLTC^® program is independent of the insurance industry and is designed to provide financial service professionals with expertise and tools to address long-term care planning with their clients.

Certified Retirement Planning Counselor^SM – A financial professional seeks the CRPC^® credential to learn the finer points of helping clients implement financial strategies to cover pre-and post-retirement needs, asset management, estate planning. Coursework touches on the entire retirement planning process using models and techniques from real client situations.

As you evaluate the expertise of an advisor, keep in mind that not all designations are equally rigorous. Each credential requires a different amount of work to obtain and maintain. Many of the designations above require a combination of coursework, one or more exams, a commitment to ongoing education and/or a pledge to maintain ethical standards.

That being said, a designation alone does not mean an advisor is the right fit for you. A professional’s education background is one factor to consider when deciding who has the right level of expertise and experience that matches what you’re looking for. For more designation explanations, check out Finra’s website at http://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations. (Finra is a key regulator of the financial services industry.) #

Daniel Covell, CRPC®, CLTC® is a Financial Advisor and Vice President with RM Financial Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in West Creek, NJ.  He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 18 years. To contact him, call his office at (609) 318-8000 x2 or visit his website at www.ameripriseadvisors.com/daniel.covell. His email address is daniel.covell@ampf.com – 1064 So. Main Street, Suite 1A, West Creek NJ 08092

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.  

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.                 

The post What Do the Letters After A Financial Advisor’s Name Mean? appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

If you’re planning a wedding – whether it’s your own or your child’s – and haven’t been paying close attention to the wedding industry, you may experience sticker shock as you begin calculating costs. An average American wedding costs the newlyweds and their families just under $34,000 — and that’s without the honeymoon tab.¹ Here is a list of tips to help you plan a wedding that works for your taste and your wallet:

1. Discuss expectations. The bride, groom and parents on each side may each have different thoughts about the ideal wedding. If you’re the bride or the groom, talk with your partner about what aspects of the wedding are most important to you. If you’re a parent, talk openly with the couple to hear their expectations.

• Decide on a location. Do you have your heart set on a destination wedding? That’s great, as long as you’re prepared to incur the added expense of airfare and accommodations (and manage the logistical challenges of long-distance event planning). However, it’s common for destination weddings to have a smaller guest list, which may help balance the budget.

• Set your guest list early. The size of your wedding guest list impacts many wedding decisions: how large of a ceremony and reception space you need, the per person amount you will spend on catering and beverages, how much it will cost to mail out save the dates and invitations, and more. Generally speaking, the larger your wedding guest list the more expensive the day will be.

• Determine who’s paying for what. It’s important to have a frank conversation as early as possible to clarify who plans to contribute and how much. If you are receiving a check from another well-wisher be clear on what, if any, expectations are tied to the money given. It’s common for others to want a say in the wedding decisions if they’ve contributed financially. Being clear up front may eliminate awkwardness tied to the gift down the road.

• Set a budget. Regardless of who is paying, couples need to identify a wedding budget before working out the details. Allocate your dollars based on what is most important to you. Is your dream dress or venue nonnegotiable for you? If so, think about what it means for the rest of your budget. Having clear priorities can help you confidently spend on your dream items while trimming costs in areas you care less about. 

• Research vendors. It’s common for wedding vendors (e.g. videographers, caterers, florists) to have many tiers of service to cater to a variety of wishes – and budgets. Do your research and compare costs before signing contracts so you know what is reasonable. Get all agreements, requests and decisions in writing, even if the vendor seems open and easy to work with.

• Manage cash flow. Cash flow can be tricky, even when your finances are in great shape. Ensure you understand how each vendor expects to be paid so you can plan your budget accordingly. Some expenses may need to be paid in full to book the services, while others may require a down payment or payment in installments leading up to the wedding.

• Don’t forget other wedding events. Are you planning other wedding events, such as an engagement party, wedding shower, bachelor and bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner or gift opening the day after the nuptials? If so, it’s important to add these to your budget. It’s traditional for parents on both sides and your wedding party to contribute or take care of the costs for these events, but every family and situation is different. Communicate openly and be prepared to foot the bill (or parts of it) if your vision is more than the host is willing to pay.

• Put the wedding in perspective. Couples beginning a life together will likely have other financial goals, such as paying off student loans, a new car purchase or a down payment on a home. Discuss the priority and ideal timeframe of your goals to know when financial obligations are due (if you’re a parent, determine if and how much you’ll help). Then, consider how your wedding budget fits in to those other priorities. Consider working with a financial advisor who can provide an objective look at your financial picture.

1. Hire a professional wedding planner. If you don’t enjoy rigorous planning, or can’t afford the time it takes, consider hiring a wedding planning professional. While it is an added cost, the right planner will work within your budget to obtain the best vendors and help coordinate the big day.

¹ – Seaver, Maggie. “The national average cost of a wedding is $33,931,” The Knot, 2018.  https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost.

Daniel Covell, CRPC®, CLTC®, is a Financial Advisor and Vice President with RM Financial Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in West Creek, NJ. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 18 years. To contact him, call his office at (609) 318-8000 x2 or visit his website at www.ameripriseadvisors.com/daniel.covell. RM Financial Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial, is located at 1064 S. Main Street, Suite 1A, West Creek NJ 08092.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.  

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC.

© 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.                                                                                 

The post How to Create a Wedding Budget You and Your Finances Will Love appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Buying a home for the first time in some U.S. markets, including Manahawkin, is becoming increasingly challenging. In competitive housing markets, the supply of available homes is tight, which means sellers often have the upper hand and home prices are rising above what is typically considered their fair value. If you are contending with a seller’s market, here are four tips to help avoid overpaying for your first home:

Tip #1 – Do your homework.

Before you are ready to become a homebuyer, study the market. Check out the neighborhoods you like and attend open houses. Get a feel for what’s currently available and price ranges for various types of homes. Pay attention to the cost your list of must haves – whether it’s a finished deck, a certain type of hardware or hardwood floors throughout. Getting every item on your list may not be realistic for your price range, so be prepared to re-evaluate after seeing a few options.  

Tip #2 – Set a budget and stick with it.

It can be tempting to go over budget in a highly competitive market. However, doing so can have ripple effects on your cash flow. Be realistic about the price range that works for you. Review your monthly budget and figure out what you can afford in terms of monthly payments (for principal, interest, property taxes and insurance) on the home. Know what you have available for a down payment and determine the price range of houses that fits your budget.

Tip #3 – Find a reputable realtor.

Look for a quality realtor who can help you feel confident throughout the process. A good realtor should take the time to truly understand what you are looking for in a home, the neighborhoods you prefer and your price range. He or she should also be familiar with the current state of the housing market where you want to live and suggest strategies to make your offer attractive.

Tip #4 – Find ways to appeal to sellers.

To keep the price within your reach, consider ways to sweeten your offer. This could include agreeing to a faster closing period, offering to pay closing costs, or, if you are able, making a cash purchase (no mortgage process required). Even writing a letter to the sellers detailing why you want the home could make your offer stand out.

As you prepare to purchase a home, consult with your financial advisor as well. He or she can help you plan the financial side of your home buying strategy so you can make a reasonable offer with confidence that doing so is aligned with your other financial goals.

###

Daniel Covell CRPC®, CLTC®, is a Financial Advisor and Vice President with RM Financial Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in West Creek, NJ.  He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 18 years. To contact him, call his office at (609) 318-8000 x2 or visit his website at www.ameripriseadvisors.com/daniel.covell. RM Financial Management is located at 1064 S. Main Street, Suite 1A, West Creek NJ 08092.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.  

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.                                                 

The post How to Be a Smart Home Buyer in A Seller’s Market appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Walnut Street Theatre opens its 211^th season with Mel Brooks’ hilarious musical comedy, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL. Directed by Charles Abbott and choreographed by Mary Jane Houdina, the electrifying production begins previews on September 3, opens September 11, and continues through October 20.

It’s Alive! (And it’s Hilarious!) From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation The Producers comes the monstrously mad musical, Young Frankenstein! Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) reluctantly inherits his infamous family’s estate in Transylvania. Urged on by a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself fulfilling his grandfather’s corpse-raising legacy. This electrifying musical stage adaptation of Mel Brooks’ brilliantly funny film will leave you in stitches!

Based on the classic Mel Brooks 1974 comedy horror film, Young Frankensteinwas adapted into the stage production in 2007. The Walnut has the honor of producing the revised London version of YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL, which marks the very first time this iteration of the show will be seen in the United States. In addition to a revised script and lyrics by Mel Brooks himself, there are two new musical numbers.

Legendary director, producer, writer, and actor Mel Brooks is the recipient of three 2001 Tony Awards (Best Score, Best Book of a Musical, Best Musical) and two Grammy Awards (Best Musical Show Album and Best Long Form Music Video) for The Producers. Mr. Brooks began his distinguished career during television’s “Golden Age” as a writer for Sid Caesar on Your Show of Shows in 1951 and has since worked on many successful Broadway, TV, music, and film projects including Caesar’s Hour, The 2000 Year Old Man, Get Smart, Blazing Saddles, and Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

Award-winning director Charles Abbott returns to the Walnut for his 34^th WST production since first directing Oliver! in 1983. His Walnut directing credits include Holiday Inn, South Pacific, And Then There Were None,Arsenic and Old Lace, Hairspray, Crazy for You, Annie (2003), and The Sound of Music. Abbott has received five Barrymore nominations, winning for his direction of 42nd Street and his performance in Cabaret at the Walnut, a role he played over 1,000 times in the first national tour of Cabaret under Harold Prince’s direction. He served as the artistic director for Maine State Music Theatre for 20 seasons and inspired the creation of the Charles Abbott Fellowship that allows burgeoning directors to assist artistic directors across the country through the Society of Directors and Choreographers. Chris Burcheri takes the podium for his first season as the Walnut’s Mainstage music director and Mary Jane Houdina joins Abbott as choreographer. Burcheri has provided music direction for the WST for Kids series, where his musical arrangements can be heard in A Christmas Carol. He also served as the associate conductor on Annie and Holiday Inn. Houdina’s work has been seen in the movie The Great Gatsby (1974) for which she was associate choreographer, as well on Broadway in the original production of Annie (associate choreographer) and Into the Light (choreographer). At The Walnut, her work as choreographer includes High Society, Oliver!, Hairspray, 42^nd Street, and Crazy for You.

Walnut veteran Ben Dibble will lead the cast as the mad scientist Dr. Frederick Frankenstein. YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL marks Dibble’s 22^nd Walnut Mainstage production. His versatile talents were most recently on display on the WST stage during last season’s Ken Ludwig’s A Comedy of Tenors. Dibble’s other Walnut production credits include Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn, Noises Off, Annie, A Funny Thing…Forum, Saturday Night Fever, Harvey, High Society, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Producers, Arsenic and Old Lace, 9 to 5 the Musical, and Hairspray. Alanna J. Smith will play Dr. Frankenstein’s alluring lab assistant Inga. A previous Walnut acting apprentice, Smith has become a Walnut regular and was most recently seen in last season’s Ken Ludwig’s A Comedy of Tenors. Audiences may also remember her from the Walnut’s Noises Off, A Funny Thing…Forum, The Importance of Being Earnest, Wizard of Oz, and A Christmas Story. Luke Bradt will be making his second appearance at the Walnut as Igor, Dr. Frankenstein’s hunchbacked sidekick. Bradt was last seen on the Mainstage in Annie and has since appeared in regional productions of Ragtime (Eagle Theatre), Cinderella (People’s Light), and Biloxi Blues (Act II Playhouse).

Wearing specially designed boots, Dan Olmstead returns to the Walnut stage to bring Frankenstein’s towering creation, The Monster, to life! Olmstead is a graduate of Temple University and has numerous Walnut credits to his name, including Matilda, South Pacific, Harvey, High Society, Arsenic and Old Lace, Good People, Amadeus, Fiddler on the Roof, Fallen Angels, A Streetcar Named Desire, Enchanted April, and Of Mice and Men. Mary Martello will play the mysterious Frau Blücher. Martello has accrued 5 Barrymore awards and 18 nominations throughout her impressive career. She has performed in over 30 WST productions and was most recently seen inHoliday Inn, Noises Off, The Humans, and Annie. The dual roles of Inspector Hans Kemp and The Hermit will be performed by another Walnut favorite, Fran Prisco. Prisco has appeared on the Walnut stage over 30 times with credits including Holiday Inn, Annie, A Funny Thing…Forum, Saturday Night Fever, The Wizard of Oz, and South Pacific. Casey Elizabeth Gill returns to the Walnut to play Frankenstein’s fiancée, Elizabeth Benning. In addition to her work as an artist, Gill has appeared in many regional productions including The Walnut’s Holiday Inn, South Pacific,and Matilda.

Returning to The Walnut to form the ghoulish ensemble is Robert Abdoo (High Society), Drew Franklin (Memphis), Bonnie Kelly (Holiday Inn), Adam Mandala (Legally Blonde: The Musical), Cary Michele Miller (Matilda), Audrey Simmons (Legally Blonde: The Musical), and Kayla Anne Tarpley (Holiday Inn). The Walnut welcomes Robert Mintz, Colin Pritchard, and Mark William to the Mainstage for their WST debuts.

Scenic Designer Robert Kovach (Holiday Inn, Forum, Annie, South Pacific,) returns to The Walnut to take audiences through the halls of Castle Frankenstein and the village of Transylvania Heights. Kovach will be joined by Lighting Designer Charlie Morrison (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, A Christmas Story: The Musical, Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas) and Sound Designer Ed Chapman (Holiday Inn, Forum, Annie, The Wizard of Oz). From platform boots and shifting hunchbacks to mad scientists and the spooky creatures of Transylvania, Costume Designer Mary Folino (The Curious Incident…Night-Time, Matilda, Annie, Holiday Inn, South Pacific,Peter and the Starcatcher, Ken Ludwig’s A Comedy of Tenors) will create the wardrobe for the cast.

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL runs at the Walnut September 3 – October 20. Closed captioning will be available for the 7 p.m. performance on Sunday, September 29. There will be a talkback after the 8:00 p.m. performance on September 4 and after the 2:00 p.m. performance on September 15. This production is sponsored in part by Herman Goldner Co., Inc. Media Partners are 6abc and Metro. For tickets and information, call 215-574-3550 or 800-982-2787. Tickets are also available online 24/7 by visiting www.WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.

The post Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein The Musical appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

#ShaveTheDate, our month-long commitment to raise awareness & provide HOPE for male patients battling a cancer diagnosis, begins November 1! 100% of the proceeds from this event hosted by Swing Graphics will be directed to male patients battling a cancer diagnosis through David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation. Click here to become an individual or business Ambassador or email Executive Director Danielle Corso at dani@davidsdreamandbelieve.org.

The post Shave the Date appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Simon®, a global leader in premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations, announced the beginning of the holiday season where families can make magical memories by taking photos with Santa as part of the Simon Santa Photo Experience at Ocean County Mall.  Santa arrived on November 1, 2019 and will visit until December 24, 2019.

“Visiting the Simon Santa Photo Experience at Ocean County Mall is a fun way for families to create lasting memories and experience all the joy that the holiday season has to offer,” Erin Barbato, Director of Marketing and Business Development. “We recognize the importance of sharing traditions with loved ones during the holidays and want to enable families to experience this special time with Santa that they have come to cherish each year at Ocean County Mall.”  

To make your experience more convenient please see our Santa Fast Pass program. We also have fun family events, Caring Santa events and Pet Photo Nights coming up in Center Court all season long.

Santa Photo Set Hours
Ocean County Mall

11/4 to 11/8 – 10am – 8pm

11/9 – 10am – 8pm

11/10 – 11am – 6pm

11/11 to 11/14 – 10am – 8pm

11/15 & 11/16 – 10am – 8:30pm

11/17 – 11am – 6pm

11/18 – 11/23 – 10am – 8:30pm

11/24 – 11am – 6pm

11/25 to 11/27 – 10am – 8:30pm

11/28 – Closed for Thanksgiving

11/29 & 11/30 – 9am – 9pm

12/1 – 9am – 7pm

12/2 to 12/4 – 10am – 9pm

12/5 – 9am – 9pm

12/6 & 12/7 – 9am – 9:30pm

12/8 – 10am – 8pm

12/9 to 12/14 – 9am – 9:30pm

12/15 – 9am – 8pm

12/16 to 12/23 – 9am – 9:30pm

12/24 – 8am – 6pm

Santa FastPass: Save time, avoid the line by reserving your magical moment with Santa online.

www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/ZyAswvVY:ocean-county-mall

Caring Santa: Provides children with all spectrums of special needs and their families with the opportunity to visit with Santa in a sensory-friendly environment. Caring Santa will occur in association with Autism Speaks before mall hours on November 17 from 9:30-11am and again on December 1, 2019 between 7:30-9am. Guests can reserve their appointment online.

www.simon.com/mall/ocean-county-mall/stores/santa-photo-experience/stream/caring-santa–sunday-november-17th-6148672

Santa’s Arrival Cookies and Milk Party: Join us on Friday, December 6th from 6–8PM in Center Court. Enjoy free cookies and milk for kids, holiday activities, giveaways and story time with Mrs. Claus. www.simon.com/mall/ocean-county-mall/stream/santas-arrival-cookies-milk-party-6149721

Pet Photo Night: An opportunity for all members of the family, pet and human, to visit with Santa. Pet Photo nights are hosted after regular mall hours on November 24, 2019 at 6-7pm and again on December 8, 2019 between 9-10pm. The set receives extensive cleaning following the event to minimize potential risks to allergy sufferers.  www.simon.com/mall/ocean-county-mall/stores/santa-photo-experience/stream/pet-photos-with-santa-6147134

The post Santa to Visit Ocean County Mall for the Holiday Season appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Ocean County residents are being encouraged to make recycling their Christmas trees part of their holiday cleanup.

“For many years now we have accepted discarded Christmas trees for recycling at several of our county parks,” said Ocean County Freeholder Director Virginia E. Haines, who serves as Chairwoman to the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. “I want to remind everyone that it is important to recycle all year long, but especially during the busy holiday season too.”

Last year, the Ocean County Parks Department collected almost 1,400 trees that were turned into woodchips and used in landscaping projects throughout the different facilities. In the past, recycled trees have also been used to help municipalities replenish the dunes on the beach as well.

Christmas trees can be dropped off at the following Ocean County park locations from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31:

• Cattus Island County Park, 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard, Toms River Township
• Cloverdale Farm County Park, 34 Cloverdale Road, Barnegat Township
• Wells Mills County Park, 905 Route 532, Ocean Township
• Ocean County Park, 659 Ocean Avenue, Lakewood Township
• Beaver Dam County Park, 3430 Bridge Avenue, Point Pleasant
• Jakes Branch County Park, 1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood
• Mill Creek County Park, 11 Chelsea Avenue, Berkeley Township
• Enos Pond County Park, 330 East Lacey Road, Forked River
• Robert J. Miller Airpark, 901 Route 530, Berkeley Township
• Freedom Fields County Park, 1160 Route 539, Little Egg Harbor Township
• Patriots County Park, 485 Bowman Road, Jackson Township
• Stanley H.”Tip” Seaman County Park, 120 Lakeside Drive, Tuckerton
• A. Paul King County Park, 2 W. Bay Avenue, Stafford Township
• Ocean County Golf Course at Atlantis, 261 Country Club Boulevard, Little Egg Harbor Township
• Ocean County Golf Course at Forge Pond, 301 Chambers Bridge Avenue, Brick Township

Christmas trees are also accepted at both the Northern and Southern Recycling Centers year-round during regular business hours (7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday). The Ocean County Southern Recycling Center is located at 379 Haywood Road, Manahawkin. The Ocean County Northern Recycling Center is located at 601 New Hampshire Ave., Lakewood.

“We make every effort to make these programs convenient and accessible because recycling really does make a difference,” said Ocean County Freeholder Gary Quinn, who serves as liaison to the recycling program. “I commend the numerous residents that embrace recycling as part of their daily lives and encourage everyone to participate.”

The post OCEAN COUNTY PARKS ACCEPTING RECYCLED CHRISTMAS TREES appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Thursday, February 20th: 4:00 PM 55+ LUNCH (doors open 2:00 PM)

Friday, February 21st: 7:00 PM

Saturday, February 22nd: 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Elle Woods has it all: fun Delta Nu sisters, her loyal Bruiser, and the best freakin’ shoes. Her dreamy boyfriend Warner drops her for a more “Serious” life at Harvard Law. Elle knows that she is what Warner wants and ingeniously charms her way into the prestigious law school. Once Elle gets to campus, she confronts her issues and becomes “So Much Better.” She discovers the best version of herself and sets out to change the world, one makeover at a time!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS!

400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, NJ

www.strand.org

The post OCVTS PRESENTS: LEGALLY BLONDE appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

Individuals, families, caregivers, and prospective professionals are invited to the Ocean County Library’s Fourth Annual Autism Resources Fair, Saturday, Apr. 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Toms River Branch.

The Fair will offer 40 state and county agencies, non-profit organizations, support and service groups for all ages, educational institutions, law experts, volunteers and entertainers.

Entertainment and activities will include “Songs & Silliness” by Mr. Jon & Friends, balloon art by Cheryl Schwendel, costumed characters and face painting by A Land and Sea Mermaid, therapy dogs, adult creative space, sensory play, and trivia for teens.

Instructive workshops will be staged by the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities, Ocean Partnership for Children, Inc., and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office. Workshop attendees are eligible for Certificates of Completion.

Aspiring professionals can meet with representatives of Georgian Court University, Kean University and Rutgers University for information about Applied Behavioral Analysis Programs, and also can learn about opportunities in supervised field work with agencies that provide ABA therapy.

The Autism Resources Fair is free and open to the public. Walk-ins are welcome, although space for the music program and for the educational workshops is limited.  Online registration for “Songs & Silliness” and for the workshops will begin on March 1.

The branch is located at 101 Washington Street. To register, call the branch, 732-349-6200, or visit www.theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

The Fair is sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation. The list of participating organizations includes:

Ocean County Library Autism Resources Fair                                                      Page 2 of 2

• Allaire Community Farm
• Autism NJ
• Brain Builders
• Brett DiNovi & Associates LLC
• A Bright Tomorrow
• Canine Companions for Independence
• Children’s Specialized Hospital
• Children’s Wellness & Development Center
• Community Medical Center
• Easterseals NJ
• The Family Resource Network
• Georgian Court University
• Graham Behavior Services
• Hackensack Meridian Health
• Hawkswood School
• Hybridge Learning Group
• Kaleidoscope ABA Therapy Services
• Kean University
• Ladacin Network
• The Matus Law Group
• NJ Camp Jaycee
• NJ Division of Disability Services
• NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Ocean County Commission on Child Safety and Awareness
• Ocean County Department of Human Services
• Office of Individuals with Disabilities
• Children’s Inter-Agency Coordinating Council
• Ocean County Family Support Organization
• Ocean County Health Department
• Ocean County Sheriff’s Office
• Ocean Partnership for Children
• Ocean Pediatric Dental Associates
• POAC Autism Services
• Rising Treetops at Oakhurst
• Rutgers University
• The Shore Center for Students with Autism
• Speech Language Associates
• The Statewide Parent Advocacy Network
• Sunny Days Early Childhood Development Center
• Sussan, Greenwald & Wesler
• Toms River Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Developmental Disabilities
• Unlocked Potential

The post Information, Exhibits, Entertainment, and Career Paths Highlight OCL’s 4th Annual Autism Resources Fair in Toms River appeared first on Forked River Gazette.

AT THE URGING OF GOV. Murphy and local officials, more of Ocean County’s shore communities are tightening restrictions in order to improve social distancing as COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the region.

Several towns, including Seaside Heights, Point Pleasant Beach and Lavallette already have constraints on beach/boardwalk access, with more possibly to come.

“Governor Phil Murphy has made it clear that limiting or blocking ocean and beach access is under the jurisdiction of the local towns,” said Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari. “In this time of crisis, the county will support whatever our local communities deem necessary.”

Other tourist destinations, including Point Pleasant Beach, Bay Head and Long Beach Township are imposing bans or restrictions on rental properties.

Local leaders have expressed concerns that the influx of summer residents during the off season is putting a strain on local services.

“While tourism is Ocean County’s bread and butter, we do ask everyone to stay in their primary homes and not relocate to a summer house in Ocean County or anywhere else,” Vicari said. “Many of our seasonal restaurants and businesses are closed and do not have the staff or the supplies to cater to this sudden increase in population.”

Even grocery stores do not have the extra stock they would normally have during the summer, he said.

“The best way to take care of your family is to stay home and do not travel,” Vicari said.

Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Health Department, agreed and asked everyone to obey restrictions coming from all levels of government.

“To stop the spread of this virus and protect the health and well being of our families and our neighbors we must all adhere to these extraordinary measures,” Little said. “By working together, we can protect all of our residents, especially the elderly and those with underlying health conditions who are most at risk of getting seriously ill.”

Towns with restrictions on beach or boardwalk access include:

• Bay Head: A Proclamation of a Local State of Emergency allows the police chief to close pubic parks, beaches and streets “as needed” to enforce social distancing.
• Island Heights: The scenic river boardwalk and all other public access areas are closed.
• Lavallette: Beaches and the boardwalk are closed.
• Long Beach Township: No dogs are allowed on bay beaches. Ocean beaches remain open.
• Mantoloking: Beaches remain open, but parking is prohibited on all public streets except for essential personnel and services.
• Point Pleasant Beach: The Boardwalk is closed. Barriers are being placed on both inlet and Boardwalk parking lots. Jenkinson’s is also closed.
• Seaside Heights: All ocean and bay beaches are closed. The Boardwalk is also closed.
• Seaside Park: The boardwalk is closed. Ocean beaches remain open.
• Ship Bottom: All parks and bay beaches are closed. Ocean beaches are open.

These towns have placed restrictions or are in the process of placing restrictions on rental properties:

• Bay Head: No rentals on Airbnb or similar online services.
• Lavallette: Has banned renting out homes on Airbnb and other online marketplaces.
• Long Beach Township: All rentals are banned.
• Point Pleasant Borough: Banning all Airbnb and vacation rentals
• Point Pleasant Beach: Local officials are drafting a resolution to place an immediate moratorium on the renting of all vacation homes and properties.

For the latest updates on COVID-19 visit www.ocean.nj.us.

The post SHORE TOWNS ANNOUNCE BEACH CLOSINGS, RENTAL BANS AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS appeared first on Forked River Gazette.