In the News

With a snowstorm expected in the Lakewood area Sunday afternoon through Monday morning hours, the Lakewood Township Department of Public Works (DPW) urges residents to move all parked vehicles; bulk trash; and anything else – where possible – off the roads in order to enable the snow removal process to proceed as quickly and effectively as possible.

Tomorrow, Monday, January 20, in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday, there will be no regular trash/recycling pickup. There is no need for any trash or recycling cans to be put out onto the road until Tuesday morning.

DPW Director Phil Roux explains that vehicles and other impediments should be moved onto driveways, lawns, or any other private property that do not get plowed by DPW. The Police and Code Enforcement Departments will not issue any tickets or fines due to vehicles being parked on private property for the duration of the snow clearing process.

Lakewood Township has a DPW snow clearing crew and fleet; and additional crews and fleets hired by the Township as independent contractors, on the roads around the clock during snowstorms. It is imperative that they have clear access to the roads so they can do their jobs as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“As any resident can attest, Lakewood’s snow clearing service has exponentially improved in recent years into a true, top-notch process,” said Mayor Ray Coles. “We thank residents for their continued cooperation throughout the process, so that we can efficiently get life back to normal and improve road safety to best of our ability.”

The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners and Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr announced the recent creation of a new Rescue Company designed to enhance the Fire Department’s emergency response capabilities and provide specialized rescue services to the community. The addition of the Rescue Company is a testament to the Lakewood Fire Department’s commitment to innovation, community safety, and the ongoing development of its members.

This highly trained and dedicated unit will address some of the most challenging and complex emergencies, including hazardous materials (HAZMAT) incidents, structural collapses, trench rescues, high-angle and low-angle rescues, and confined space operations. The Rescue Company will be staffed by a skilled team of both career and volunteer members, exemplifying the department’s commitment to collaboration and excellence.

The company is expected to begin responding to emergencies in the third quarter of this year. In preparation, team members are currently undergoing the necessary training to ensure readiness for the diverse and complex scenarios they may encounter.

Chief of Department Jonathan Yahr said, “Our new Rescue Company represents a significant step forward in our mission to protect life and property. By combining the expertise and dedication of our career and volunteer firefighters, we’re building a team that is prepared to respond to the most critical and complex emergencies.”

The Fire Department is well-positioned to launch this specialized unit since it currently employs:

– 11 members trained in Rope Rescue;
– 10 members trained in Confined Space Rescue;
– 7 members trained in Trench Rescue;
– 10 Structural Collapse Specialists; and
– 16 Hazmat Technicians.

The Rescue Company will utilize state-of-the-art equipment and comprehensive training to ensure readiness for a wide range of technical rescue scenarios. Team members have undergone and continue to undergo rigorous training in accordance with national standards, ensuring the highest level of preparedness and professionalism.

Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein said, “We’re incredibly proud of the collaboration that went into forming this unit. The creation of the Fire Department’s Rescue Company not only strengthens our emergency response capabilities but also underscores the vital role that both career and volunteer firefighters play in our community.”

The Lakewood Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners and Lakewood Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr are seeking individuals who have a desire to serve the Lakewood Community. Individuals interested in becoming volunteer firefighters are encouraged to visit the Fire Department’s website www.LakewoodFD.org and submit the requested information expressing their interest through the “Join / Apply Today” link https://lakewoodfd.org/join/. For more information about the Lakewood Fire Department visit www.LakewoodFD.org.

The Lakewood Township Department of Public Works (DPW) urges residents to move all parked vehicles, bulk trash, and anything else on or in the roads to enable the snow removal process to proceed as quickly and effectively as possible.

Residents in Zone 1, whose trash pickup is on Monday, should leave their trash cans out as usual but remove them from the road as soon as possible once the trash has been picked up.

DPW Director Phil Roux explains that vehicles and other impediments should be moved onto driveways, lawns, or any other private property that do not get plowed by DPW. The Police and Code Enforcement Departments will not issue any tickets or fines due to vehicles being parked on private property through Monday afternoon.

Lakewood Township has both a DPW snow clearing crew and fleet; and additional crews and fleets hired by the Township as independent contractors, on the roads around the clock during snowstorms. It is imperative that they have clear access to the roads so that they can do their jobs as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“As any resident can attest, Lakewood’s snow clearing service has exponentially improved in recent years into a true, top-notch process,” says Mayor Ray Coles. “We thank residents for their continued cooperation throughout the process, so that we can efficiently get life back to normal and improve road safety to best of our ability.”

The Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, is featuring a special January show. On January 11, James D’Amico’s Sun Concerts and the Strand Theater will present the most authentic QUEEN live show since the days of QUEEN themselves. A four-piece band, will deliver a live show consisting of signature four-part harmonies and genuine costumes while recapturing the live energy that is the ultimate Queen experience.

Doors Open at 6:30 p.m.; the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Ticket Prices are Orchestra and Loge: $67.00; Mezzanine: $57.00; Tier: $47.00; and ADA (Handicap): $47.00.

About the Strand Theater: The historic Strand Theater, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit at 400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, was designed by world-renowned theater architect Thomas Lamb in 1922 and is listed on the N.J. and National Register of Historic Places. The Strand offers year-round entertainment in plush, air-conditioned surroundings. It is a perfect venue to showcase comedians, musicals, dinner theater, stars from television and movies, and legendary musical entertainers. The reception gallery includes a catering facility for 80 people, a dance floor, and restrooms. It is ideal for theater-in-the-round, smaller events and receptions.

The Lakewood Fire Department is urging residents to take note of fire safety practices to ensure a joyful and accident-free holiday season for everyone during the celebrations of Chanukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners, Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr, Fire Prevention Specialist Sima Clapman, and the members of the Lakewood Fire Department, have listed fire safey tips (below). Whether lighting the menorah for Chanukah, decorating the Christmas tree, or celebrating Kwanzaa, it is crucial to stay mindful of fire safety.

The Lakewood Fire Department offers the following safety tips for all three holidays:
Chanukah Fire Safety Tips:
1. Menorah Placement:
o Place Chanukah Menorahs on sturdy, noncombustible surfaces, keeping them at least three feet away from combustible materials.
o Be mindful when placing lit candles in windows or near exits to ensure a clear escape route.
o Never leave a lit Menorah unattended and keep matches, lighters, and other fire-starting items out of reach of children.
o Never leave your menorah unattended, such as when leaving your house or going to bed, before all the candles or oil has stopped burning and the fire is extinguished.
2. Cooking Safety:
o Roll up sleeves and avoid loose clothing that can catch fire while cooking.
o Keep combustible items, such as dish towels and bags at least three feet away from the stovetop.
o Always stay in the kitchen when cooking to avoid unattended cooking fires.
3. Frying Precautions:
o Keep children away from hot cooking surfaces and oil during frying.
o Exercise caution when reheating fried foods, as hot oil can cause severe burns.
4. Appliance Safety:
o Keep all appliances away from the edge of counters, especially when children are present.
o Ensure proper air circulation around appliances and check that they are in good working condition.
Christmas Fire Safety Tips:
1. Christmas Tree Safety:
o Choose a fresh tree and keep it watered to prevent it from drying out.
o Place trees away from heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, and candles.
o Check lights for damaged wires and use only U.L. approved lights.
2. Holiday Decoration Safety:
o Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
o Always turn off Christmas lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
o Use flame-resistant decorations and avoid placing them near open flames.
3. Candle Safety:
o If using candles for decorations, keep them on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials.
o Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Kwanzaa Fire Safety Tips:
1. Candle Placement (Mishumaa Saba):
o Place the Kinara (candle holder) on a stable surface, away from flammable materials like curtains or paper.
o Never leave the candles unattended and ensure they are extinguished before sleeping or leaving the room.
2. Cooking and Meal Preparation:
o As with other holiday meals, stay in the kitchen when cooking and avoid distractions.
o Keep hot surfaces, stovetops, and ovens clear of flammable items.
3. General Fire Safety:
o Ensure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
o Keep fire extinguishers nearby in case of emergencies.
Emergency Response:
• Never hesitate to call the fire department if you suspect a fire hazard or emergency. Fire Department Chaplain Rabbi Moshe Rotberg and local rabbinical authorities stress that it is crucial not to delay when it comes to safety. What may appear to be a minor issue can quickly escalate into something dangerous.
• Ensure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in your home, with alarms outside each sleeping area and on every floor.

The Lakewood Fire Department encourages all residents to make fire safety an integral part of their holiday traditions, whether celebrating Chanukah, Christmas, or Kwanzaa. By being proactive, we can all contribute to a safer and more joyous holiday season for our community. For more information and additional fire safety resources, please visit our website at www.lakewoodfd.org or contact the Lakewood Fire Department at (732) 364-5151.

Learn about the Top 10 Mistakes Managers Make, and How to Prevent and Fix Them from Mack Munro, the founder and CEO of Boss Builders, during the virtual meeting of JSAHR (Jersey Shore Association for Human Resources), open to the public, on Wednesday, December 18.

Announcements will start at 11:45a.m. and the speaker is scheduled from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. A link will be sent the day prior to the meeting for those who register.

The registration fee is $10 for JSAHR members and $15 for non-members Registration is online at: http://jsahr.shrm.org/events or admin@jsahr.org or call JSAHR at 732-701-7155.

Attendees will gain insights into unraveling the common pitfalls that hinder managerial success and will explore effective strategies to avoid them. Through storytelling, practical examples, and actionable insights, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role HR technical expertise play in managerial decision-making and problem-solving.

Attendees will also become aware of the significance of consultation and the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and relationship building skills. Participants will learn how to engage stakeholders, seek input, and leverage diverse perspectives to drive optimal outcome.

JSAHR is a SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) affiliated chapter. This program is pending one (1) SHRM PDC and one (1) HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute) recertification credit.

About Mack Munro: Mack Munro, the founder and CEO of Boss Builders, has a mission together with his team to create the next generation of great bosses. He is considered an expert in the supervisory development business. Munro is the author of several books on management and has provided management training to clients in most of the USA and abroad. He’s the author of How to Build Better Bosses and How to Win at Performance Management, and the creator of numerous personality and behavioral assessments. He has a popular podcast, HR Oxygen, can be found on all major podcast apps and at HROxygen.com.

Lakewood Community Coalition recently hosted its fourth quarterly meeting at the Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, featuring keynote speaker Reverend William Simmons, Assistant Pastor at Sixth Street Baptist Church, Lakewood. The event was co-chaired by Captain Steve Allaire and Dr. Cori Scotti.

Reverend Simmons presented a powerful message on the “Say Hello” campaign, an initiative launched in collaboration with Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer Human Relations Commission. This campaign emphasizes the importance of fostering meaningful conversations and genuine community connections.

Speaking on behalf of Prosecutor Billhimer, Michael Colwell highlighted the importance of the “Say Hello” campaign and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Lakewood Community Coalition for its outstanding contributions to the community. He commended Lakewood for its continued efforts to make a positive difference.

One of the highlights of the evening was when Lakewood Police Chief Gregory H. Meyer announced winners in the drawing of lucky tickets for the much-anticipated “Harvest Baskets.” These beautifully decorated baskets, crafted by June D’Elia, were generously donated by Herbert Cellar, Tommy Calabro of Twin City Jewelers, and Nick’s Farm Market. Food was provided by Iron Recovery and Wellness.

Chief Meyer also presented a retirement plaque to Sergeant Kenneth Burdge, honoring his 30 years of dedicated service. The farewell celebrated his contributions and commitment to the community.

The Lakewood Community Coalition extended its gratitude to the Strand Theater for hosting the fourth quarterly event at its beautiful venue, which provided the perfect backdrop for this inspiring evening.

Distinguished guests included Ocean County Freeholder Virginia Haines, and Ocean County College President Dr. Pamela Monaco, whose presence underscored the collaborative spirit of the gathering.
LPD Community Resource Unit Team members, including Sgt. Kenneth Burdge, Community Resource Officers Jason Yahr, Kevin Bell, Jeffrey Emmons, and Joseph Soriano shared their quarterly statistics and highlighted the positive impact of their outreach efforts. Additional acknowledgment goes to D/Sgt. Jeannette Shimonovich, and Sgt. Peter LaRosa for their contributions to the team and the community. *Special thanks to Patrick Sample from Traffic Safety.
Organizations that attended and are part of the Lakewood Community Coalition are Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish of Lakewood; St. Vincent De Paul; Attorney General’s Office, Yolanda Melville; Ocean County Prosecutors Office; Ocean County Sheriff’s Office; Lakewood Fire Department; Rabbi Charles Pinter; NJ OHSP; Iron Recovery and Wellness; WellPoint; National Chaplains Association; Andrei Jackamets, Photographer; Sixth Street Baptist Church; Just Believe; Vida City Church; St. John’s AME Zion Church; Ocean County College, Dr. Pamela Monaco; Lakewood EMS; Arrive Together; Bright Harbor; Ocean County Fire Marshall; NJSP Operation Rise; Solutions To End Poverty Soon; Habcore AHA; Food Angels; Hope Sheds Light; Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus; Community Non-profit; Family Promise Jersey Shore; All Saints Episcopal Church; Ocean County Health Department; Ocean Academy Charter School, Valerie Smith; OHI, Warren Sherard; and Lakewood Board of Education, Moshe Bender.

(Photos courtesy of Yaakov Wenger and Jeannette Shimonovich) Photo #1 CRO Jeffrey Emmons; D/Sgt. Jeannette Shimonovich; Dr. Cori Scotti; Chief Gregory H. Meyer; Captain Steve Allaire; CRO Jason Yahr Back row: CRO Joseph Soriano; CRO Kevin Bell; Sgt. Peter LaRosa; Sgt. Kenneth Burdge.
Photo #2 CRO Jeffrey Emmons; CRO Joseph Soriano; Chief Gregory H. Meyer; Sgt. Kenneth Burdge; Captain Steve Allaire; CRO Jason Yahr; D/Sgt. Jeannette Shimonovich Rear: CRO Kevin Bell; Sgt. Peter LarRosa

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners, Fire Chief Jonathan T. Yahr, Fire Prevention Specialist Sima Clapman, and the members of the Lakewood Fire Department remind the community about the importance of Thanksgiving fire safety. While Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, celebration, and gathering with loved ones, it’s also a period when fire-related incidents can increase.

To help families and individuals stay safe during this festive time, the Lakewood Fire Department offers the following Thanksgiving fire safety tips to enjoy a safe and joyous Thanksgiving season.

1. Safe Cooking Practices: Ensure that someone is always present in the kitchen while cooking. Keep flammable items, such as dish towels and oven mitts, away from the stovetop. Use a timer as a reminder when cooking dishes that require longer preparation.

2. Deep-Frying Turkey: If you plan to deep-fry a turkey, do so outdoors and keep the fryer a safe distance away from the house and other structures. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed (even the cavity) and dry before submerging it in hot oil.

3. Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide: Ensure your smoke alarms and CO alarms are in working order. Test them before the holiday and change the batteries if necessary.

4. Candles: If you use candles as part of your Thanksgiving decorations, keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

5. Fireplace Safety: If you have a fireplace, use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping. Dispose of ashes in a metal container and store it outdoors.

6. Escape Plan: Discuss a fire escape plan with your family, including two ways to exit each room. Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside in case of a fire.

Chief Yahr of the Lakewood Fire Department stresses the importance of Thanksgiving fire safety, “We want everyone in our community to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday without the worry of fire-related incidents. By following these safety tips, we can reduce the risk and ensure a safe and memorable celebration.”

The Lakewood Fire Department encourages all residents and visitors to prioritize safety during the Thanksgiving holiday and make it a tradition to practice fire safety. By taking these precautions, we can all contribute to a safer and happier holiday season.

For more information and additional fire safety resources, visit www.lakewoodfd.org or contact Sima Clapman, Fire Prevention Specialist, at (732) 364-5151.

The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, at 502 Country Club Road, Pine Park, Lakewood, N.J., is holding its Winter Open House, Saturday, December 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and Sunday, December 15, Noon to 5:00 p.m. The Model Railroaders are located in the basement of the Lakewood Historical Museum also known as the Sheldon Wolpin Historical Museum. A chair lift that goes to and from the basement is available. Admission is free but donations are always gladly accepted.

Visitors to the Open House will see both modern and traditional trains running continuously on two large operating layouts. Ted Bertiger, president of The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, said, “We will have trains running for all ages. Come see our model train club in action!”

For more information, contact Ted Bertiger, 732-363-7799 or at captnkraft@aol.com. Also visit https://ocsmr.com.

About The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders: The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, open Tuesdays and Fridays from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m.

Rizco, a woman-owned, brand-led marketing agency, Spring Lake, New Jersey, announced it was recently an honoree in the NJBIZ Empowering Women – Companies Leading the Way awards program at The DoubleTree by Hilton, Somerset, NJ. Now in its second year, this award celebrates over 40 New Jersey-based organizations actively promoting women’s empowerment and advancement through strategic and impactful initiatives.

“We are honored to receive the NJBIZ Empowering Women award and proud to be part of a community that promotes women’s advancement,” said Debra Rizzi, co-founder and president of Rizco. “The Rizco MOVEment and our professional development initiatives are expressions of our belief in creating environments where women can thrive personally and professionally.”

The NJBIZ Empowering Women award program recognizes organizations for achievements in: Recruiting, hiring, and promoting women; providing mentoring programs for women; advocating for systemic change to combat inequality, and engaging in philanthropic and community efforts that support women. Rizco and other honorees will be featured in an upcoming NJBIZ issue.

Rizco’s growth-oriented culture is founded on a deep commitment to advancing women and fostering a sense of ownership and innovation among all team members. Employees are encouraged to approach the business as their own, empowering them to make bold, impactful decisions that contribute to Rizco’s success. To support this, Rizco provides each team member with an annual $500 professional development stipend and continuous industry training, fostering personal and professional growth.

Two of Rizco’s standout female leaders, Michelle Mazur and Alexa Rafael, were honored in 2021 and 2022, respectively, as part of the NJ Ad Club’s Jersey’s Best Professionals Under 40—a testament to their professional excellence and leadership.

Rizco also actively supports association engagement and community leadership with many female team members holding or having held roles in influential New Jersey organizations. These include the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council, Professional Women in Construction, Jersey Shore Chamber of Commerce, Wall High School Business & Finance Academy, and Greater Toms River Chamber of Commerce. Rizco’s network also includes the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce and NJBIA.

In New Jersey’s construction sector, where women make up just 9 percent of the workforce, Rizco is actively driving change. Led by VP of Sales Jill Nappi, a Professional Women in Construction (PWC) board member, PWC membership has tripled and mentorship programs have grown. Nappi mentors new female professionals every six months; serves on the scholarship committee awarding $30,000 annually to women in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC); and volunteers at vocational schools—furthering Rizco’s commitment to advancing women in underrepresented fields.

In October 2024, Rizco launched the Rizco MOVEment, a wellness initiative aimed to bolster health, work-life balance, and personal wellness, which is particularly critical as half of Rizco’s female team members navigate motherhood. The Rizco MOVEment, spearheaded by Director of Strategy & Content Alicia Shepherd, includes quarterly sessions with New Jersey’s top women in health, nutrition, and education, demonstrating Rizco’s commitment to a culture of holistic support.

Visit rizco.com for more information.

About Rizco: Founded at the turn of the new millennium, Rizco is an award-winning, woman-owned, brand-led marketing agency based in Spring Lake, New Jersey. Melding strategic thinking and creative expertise seamlessly, Rizco focuses on building brands and growing companies through all aspects of branding, design, and communication strategies. An integrated approach to brand building allows Rizco to help clients creatively engage with their audiences and deliver results through their customized, six-step, research-based process. Rizco has implemented campaigns for some of the nation’s top brands that span across many verticals. For more information, visit www.Rizco.com.

Photos Courtesy of Rizco: #1 NJBIZ Rep; Debra Rizzi, President and Partner; and Keith Rizzi, Partner and Creative Director at Rizco, accept the NJBIZ 2024 Empowering Women Honoree award. Photo #2 Rizco Team – Sean Healey, Sara Turner, Alicia Shepherd, Keith Rizzi, Debra Rizzi, Michelle Mazur, Jill Rizzi, and Jill Nappi

The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners and Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr announced the appointment of volunteer firefighter, Emily M. Komsa. This appointment was confirmed recently at the Board of Fire Commissioners’ meeting at Fire Headquarters, 733 Cedar Bridge Avenue, Lakewood, New Jersey, where she was sworn in with honor and commitment.

Emily Komsa is the daughter of Lakewood Township COO Patricia Komsa and dad Jim Komsa, Retired Captain of the Manchester Police Department and owner of Advanced Drone Consultants. Her brother James M. Komsa is a patrolman in the Lakewood Police Department. She is a granddaughter of former Lakewood Fire Chief and Township Committeeman Mike D’Elia Sr., and niece of Former Lakewood Fire Chief Mike D’Elia Jr.

The Lakewood Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners and Lakewood Fire Department Fire Chief Yahr, continue to seek individuals who have a desire to serve the Lakewood Community. Individuals interested in becoming volunteer firefighters are encouraged to visit the Fire Department website at www.lakewoodfd.org and submit the requested information at “Join / Apply Today” link https://lakewoodfd.org/join/.

For more information, contact Yehuda Beer, Fire District Administrator, at 732-364-5151 ext. 6102 or Ybeer@Lakewoodfd.org.

Photos (Courtesy of Lakewood Twp): #1Fire Chief Jonathan T. Yahr, Deputy Chief David M. Wolf, and Emily Komsa #2 Komsa Family at Swearing In Ceremony- Mom Trish Komsa, Emily, Dad James J., and brother James M. #3 Deputy Chief Wolf and Emily Komsa

Work is broken. Two thirds of employees are disengaged. Voluntary turnover has more than doubled over the last decade. Find out why this is happening at the breakfast meeting of JSAHR (Jersey Shore Association for Human Resources), open to the public, on Thursday, December 12 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Jumping Brook Country Club, 210 Jumping Brook Road, Neptune.

Besides the speaker, JSAHR is sponsoring two contests. Wear your ugliest holiday sweater to win a prize! Also, enter the business card drawing. Bring a branded item from your business or another item to raffle off, and bring your business cards to take part in the drawing to win a prize.

Breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m., followed by announcements at 8:30 a.m. Thomas Bertels, president and founder of Purpose Works Consulting LLC, will begin speaking at 9:00 a.m.

Registration including breakfast is $40 for JSAHR members; $55 for non-members; $30 for each first-time guest and those in-transition; and $15 for students with a valid ID; Walk-in member is $50 and walk-in nonmember is $65. Registration is online at: http://jsahr.shrm.org/events or admin@jsahr.org or call JSAHR at 732-701-7155.

Attendees will understand how job design impacts individual and organization performance; learn how to utilize work design principles to create intrinsically motivating work; and evaluate whether work design is an appropriate intervention in the organizational context. This information should will improve employee engagement, productivity, and agility, and provide a better customer experience.

JSAHR is a SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) affiliated chapter. This program is pending one (1) SHRM PDC and one (1) HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute) recertification credit.

About SThomas Bertels: Thomas Bertels is a business transformation expert on a mission to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. He has three decades of experience helping companies from start-ups to Fortune 5 transform how work gets done. Thinkers360 has recognized Thomas as a Top 50 Thought Leader on the Future of Work and Design Thinking. He has written several books and numerous articles. His latest book is the award-winning business fable ‘Fixing Work: Designing Jobs Employees Love’. He also hosts the Work Matters podcast, where he explores in conversations with thought leaders and executives what leaders can do to fix work.

The Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, is featuring several shows this December. Don’t miss A Medium Gallery Show with Linda Shields, The Jersey Shore Medium on December 6. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; the show begins at 7:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $30.00 for the Orchestra and ADA Handicap.

At just eight years old, Linda Shields discovered her gift, which would later on turn into a lifelong career. Now, 54 years later, the Jersey Shore Medium is touring around the country, surrounded by spirits in her day-to-day work.

It was the summer of 1990 when Shields received a phone call to do a reading. Shields’ grandmother was also a psychic who taught her how to turn off and on her senses as well as understand them. “There has never been a time where I could not connect with someone,” says Shields. “It’s the readings that when I can give closure or hope, that’s what keeps me going.

“I like being the Jersey Shore Medium. I just want in the years to come to have the health to keep doing what I’m doing. As long as I have the energy and the blessings to do it, I’ll do it as long as I can.”

Shields offers private medium readings, medium gallery parties, private tarot card readings, lectures, and fundraising events. In addition, the Jersey Shore native is also the published author of Angel Inspirations for Serenity and Love, Crystal Power, and 12,000 Dreams Interpreted.

To learn more about Linda Shields: The Jersey Shore Medium, visit: https://www.thejerseyshoremedium.com/.

James D’Amico’s Sun Concerts and the Strand Theater present The Machine Performs Pink Floyd on December 7. Doors at 6:30 p.m. The show begins at 8:00 p.m. Tickets cost Orchestra and Loge: $51.00; The Mezzanine: $46.00; The Tier and Ada (Handicap) $41.00.

The Machine focuses on making every show an authentic Floydian experience for fans. Known for performing a diverse mix of Pink Floyd’s extensive 16-album repertoire
(complete with faithful renditions of popular hits as well as obscure gems), The
Machine’s stellar musicianship, dramatic lighting, and video, and their passionate
delivery sets them above and beyond the rest.

On December 14 enjoy The Wag’s Christmas Spectacular. Doors at 6:00 p.m. The show begins at 7:00 p.m. Ticket prices are Orchestra, Loge, Mezzanine. Tier, and Ada (handicap): $20.00. Children under 18 and Seniors arev$15.00.
The Wag’s Christmas is steeped in the traditions of holiday TV shows of the past, and brings back the memories of these specials. This show has all of the holiday songs that you know and love, plus dance numbers, costume changes, and comedy sketches, along with some fun surprises – including a few original Christmas/Holiday songs! The show also features a running theme of “Christmas Around the World,” including holiday songs and sketches from Ireland, Germany, Spain, and more! The Wag’s Christmas Spectacular is sure to please the entire family.

The Atlantic City Ballet’s The Nutcracker is scheduled for December 21. Doors at 6:00 p.m., Show begins at 7:00. Ticket Prices are Orchestra and Loge: $35.00; Mezzanine: $25.00; Tier: $15.00; ADA (HANDICAP) $35.00; Children under 18 are $15.00; Seniors $20.00.

The Nutcracker, one of ballet’s treasured classics, tells the story of a little girl named Clara who is given a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. Embarking on a wondrous journey through the Kingdom of Snow and the Land of Sweets, Clara encounters many unforgettable and timeless characters. Young and old alike will experience the many magical moments of this beloved holiday ballet.

About the Strand Theater: The historic Strand Theater, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit at 400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, was designed by world-renowned theater architect Thomas Lamb in 1922 and is listed on the N.J. and National Register of Historic Places. The Strand offers year-round entertainment in plush, air-conditioned surroundings. It is a perfect venue to showcase comedians, musicals, dinner theater, stars from television and movies, and legendary musical entertainers. The reception gallery includes a catering facility for 80 people, a dance floor, and restrooms. It is ideal for theater-in-the-round, smaller events and receptions.

Regardless of where you live or drive through in Lakewood, you have likely encountered newly improved roads and/or sidewalks in recent weeks. Infrastructure improvements were recently completed in all corners of Lakewood, including new streets; new signals; new sidewalks; new pavement; and drainage improvements.

At the same time, preparation work has also advanced for several infrastructure projects to be completed in the near future. These diverse projects were completed within a relatively short span of several weeks, which encompassed the holiday season of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkos, during which there are a number of days with minimal traffic. During the time when there was high traffic, such as Erev Yom Tov, there was little or no roadwork done in high traffic locations.

This entailed complex planning and coordination on the part of local officials with Lakewood Township, Ocean County, and the State of New Jersey governments – each of whom was responsible for some of these projects – as well as engineers, contractors, and law enforcement agencies.

Lakewood Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein said, “During the hectic Yom Tov season, we kept on getting calls from both residents and business owners, who were amazed at how smooth the traffic flow was for them and their customers, even as all these projects were underway. I would like to thank our partners at all levels for working with us so efficiently to improve Lakewood’s infrastructure with minimal disruption.”

The Lakewood Fire Department is actively assisting in the response to the Jackson wildfire, a major forest fire impacting the Jackson, N.J., area. In collaboration with regional fire services, the Lakewood Fire Department has deployed its RAC (Rehab and Care) Unit, operated by Lakewood EMS, to provide critical support to firefighters on the front lines.

The RAC Unit, staffed by experienced Lakewood EMS personnel, plays a vital role in ensuring the health and safety of those involved in firefighting efforts. As crews battle the wildfire in challenging conditions, the RAC Unit provides essential medical support, hydration, rest, and care to first responders, helping them remain safe and effective in their mission.

Lakewood Fire Chief Jon Yahr said, “Our RAC Unit allows us to extend critical support to our fellow firefighters as they work tirelessly to contain this wildfire. The health and welfare of our responders is paramount, and we’re proud to be able to support their needs in these challenging conditions.”

The Lakewood Fire Department remains fully committed to its role in the regional emergency response network, supporting both local and neighboring communities in times of need.

For more information about the Lakewood Fire Department please visit www.LakewoodFD.org. or contact Yehuda Beer, Fire District Administrator, at 732-364-5151 Ext. 6102.

“Test Your Smoke Alarm” Competition

One way keep yourself and your family safe is to follow the rule: When you change your clocks on November 3, change the batteries in your smoke detectors.

On Daylight Saving Time November 3, 2024, The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners, Fire Chief Jonathan T. Yahr, Fire Prevention Specialist Sima Clapman, and the members of the Lakewood Fire Department are encouraging residents to change the batteries in their smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms when changing their clocks.

The “Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery” campaign emphasizes the importance of maintaining functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in homes. The campaign encourages residents to use the transition to Daylight Saving Time as a cue to replace the batteries in their devices, ensuring all devices remain in optimal working condition.

Fire Prevention Specialist Clapman of the Lakewood Fire Department highlights the critical role these devices play in home safety, stating, “Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are essential components of home safety. Regularly changing the batteries ensures these devices are ready to provide early warnings in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide presence, potentially saving lives.”

Key Messages of the Campaign:

1. Life-Saving Reminder: Changing the clocks is not just a routine task. It serves as a life-saving reminder to also change the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

2. Optimal Performance: Regular maintenance, including battery replacement, ensures these devices operate at peak performance, offering timely alerts in case of emergencies.

3. Simple Action, Significant Impact: A few minutes spent changing batteries can have a significant impact on the safety of your home and loved ones.

4. Community-wide Commitment: The Lakewood Fire Department encourages the entire community to participate in the “Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery” campaign, fostering a collective commitment to home safety.

Residents are urged to take a few extra minutes during the time change weekend to replace the batteries in their smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. It’s a small effort that can yield life-saving results.

In addition, the Lakewood Fire Department has also announced a “Test Your Smoke Alarm” competition. Submit a picture of yourself creatively testing smoke alarms and changing their batteries for a chance to win a great prize. To enter, simply email your picture with your name, phone number, and address to fireprevention@lakewoodfd.org or drop off your picture and information at 733 Cedar Bridge Ave, Lakewood, NJ. Submissions must be submitted by November 30, 2024.

The Lakewood Fire Department is known for and dedicated to serving and safeguarding the community through proactive education, responsive emergency services, and continuous efforts to enhance public safety. Committed to fostering a safer living environment, the department encourages residents to actively participate in initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the community.

Additional Fire Safety Information for parents, children and educators can be found at the Lakewood Fire Department website at www.lakewoodfd.org and clicking on the Safety Page.

Contact insurance brokers or providers to discuss potential reductions in property insurance premiums

The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners and Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr announced that effective November 1, 2024, the Lakewood Fire District will achieve a significant improvement in its Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating, moving from a rating of a Class 5 to a Class 3 rating (Class 1 is the highest rating; Class 10 is the lowest). The independent ISO rating system is the nation’s preeminent indicator of a Fire Department’s effectiveness.

This rating places the Lakewood Fire Department among the top fire departments in the nation, reflecting its ongoing commitment in providing exceptional fire protection services to the community; and confirms the Lakewood Fire Department’s superior service, quicker response times, and comprehensive fire prevention strategies.

Chief Yahr said he attributes this accomplishment to the department’s dedicated team and the community’s ongoing support. “This reclassification is the result of years of hard work and a commitment to excellence. It reflects not only the capabilities of our firefighters but also the investment our community has made in fire protection infrastructure and resources.”

In recent years, the Lakewood Fire Department has substantially increased its numbers of full-time career firefighters; enhanced its equipment and training; improved its administrative and communication systems; updated its fleet; and instituted a number of innovative community outreach programs.

An improved ISO rating often translates to lower insurance rates, which can result in substantial savings for property owners. A better ISO rating, a key factor for insurance companies to calculate premiums in individual municipalities, is also expected to reduce home insurance costs for Lakewood’s property owners. The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners encourages all homeowners and business owners to contact their insurance brokers or providers to discuss potential reductions in their property insurance premiums.

The Board of Fire Commissioners and Chief Yahr extend their gratitude to Mayor Ray Coles; Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein; and the entire Township Committee, local businesses, and the whole community for their support, which has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.

For more information about the ISO rating or to learn more about fire safety and prevention, visit www.LakewoodFD.org. or contact Yehuda Beer, Fire District Administrator, at 732-364-5151.

The Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, is featuring its November shows. On November 8, local favorites The Legion of Prog- A Celebration of 70s & 80s Progressive Rock will present faithful recreations of classic 1970s and ’80s progressive rock music – music by great bands like Yes, Genesis, Pink Floyd, Rush, Emerson Lake & Palmer, Jethro Tull, King Crimson, and others. Top-quality musicianship, vintage equipment, and stunning visuals are all part of the memorable experience that Legion of Prog delivers on stage.Each member of the band has over thirty years of experience playing to area audiences. Legion of Prog knows how to put on a show! Come experience a great progressive rock cover band in a beautiful setting.

Doors Open at 7:00 p.m.; the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Ticket Prices are Orchestra: $55.00; Loge: $45.00; Mezzanine: $36.00; Tier: $31.00; and ADA (Handicap): $31.00.

November 9, Meet Loaf: The Ultimate Tribute to Meat Loaf. The “Meet Loaf” tribute show epitomizes the Meat Loaf experience in a look-a-like and sound-a-like event that leaves audiences awestruck. A world-class show that delivers the powerful wide-ranging male and female operatic lead vocals, and the epic theatrical elements that Meat Loaf fans have come to love, in an unforgettable evening of smash hits. If you love the music of Meat Loaf, get revved up, because Meet Loaf really ignites!

Doors Open at 6:30 p.m.; the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices are the Orchestra and Loge: $42.00; Mezzanine and Tier: $20.00; and ADA (Handicap): $20.00

November 16, enjoy A Golden Oldies Extravaganza, presented by James D’Amico’s Sun Concerts; produced and directed by Pete Mastropaolo and The Famous Coda Band; and hosted by hosted by WABC NY 77 Radio’s Own Vinnie Medugno and featuring The Brooklyn Bridge, The Grass Roots, The Vogues, The Cyrkle, The Chiclettes, and Comedian TBA

Doors Open at 6:30 p.m.; the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices are the Orchestra and Loge: $79.00; Mezzanine: $69.00; Tier: $59.00; and ADA (Handicap): $59.00

The Rush Experience is scheduled for November 22. Hailing from the Baltimore/Washington Metropolitan Area, The Rush Experience is a true – RUSH Tribute Act in that the band is a TRIO (3 musicians) fulfilling the traditional roles of Geddy, Alex and Neil… Vince Tricarico is on drums and percussion; Burke Hunn on guitars and synthesizer pedals; and David Kidd on bass, vocals, keyboards and pedals. The band’s repertoire spans RUSH’s entire career from their 1974 debut album through 2012’s epic swan song, Clockwork Angels. The Rush Experience will focus on RUSH’s entire 40 Year Career; covering their hey-day 70’s and 80’s material thru the 90’s and ending at band’s retirement from touring in 2015.

The band performs many of their greatest hits with a wealth of surprising deep cuts that perhaps only Rush performed themselves throughout their celebrated career.

Doors Open at 7:00 p.m.; the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices are the Orchestra; $45.00; Loge: $35.00; Mezzanine: $25.00; Tier: $15.00; and ADA (Handicap): $45.00

About the Strand Theater: The historic Strand Theater, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit at 400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, was designed by world-renowned theater architect Thomas Lamb in 1922 and is listed on the N.J. and National Register of Historic Places. The Strand offers year-round entertainment in plush, air-conditioned surroundings. It is a perfect venue to showcase comedians, musicals, dinner theater, stars from television and movies, and legendary musical entertainers. The reception gallery includes a catering facility for 80 people, a dance floor, and restrooms. It is ideal for theater-in-the-round, smaller events and receptions.

Open Enrollment for Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans begins October 15 and runs through December 7. During these 53 days, seniors are given an opportunity to reassess their coverage, and find and sign-up for better options for the coming year.

Toby Stark, an agent with Stark Associates Insurance Agency, Tinton Falls, NJ, says, “Even if you are happy with your current Medicare plan, it generally pays to review your plan during Open Enrollment. Getting better Medicare plan coverage and possibly lowering costs are the primary reasons to take advantage of the yearly reassessment opportunity. If you miss an Open Enrollment deadline, you’ll most likely have to wait a full year before you can make changes to your plan.”

“Maybe you started taking a new prescription medication or your Medicare plan’s coverage for 2025 will change,” says Jesse Slome, director of the American Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance, a national industry organization. “Act early because local Medicare insurance professionals are busiest during this time of the year.”

The two important things every Medicare beneficiary can do during Open Enrollment are:
1.Review Your Plan Notice. Be sure to read any notices you receive from your Medicare plan about changes for next year. Review for any changes that could impact drugs you take or the doctors and specialists you prefer.

2.Review 2024 and Think Ahead for 2025 Needs. Consider any health changes that happened in 2024. Think ahead about health conditions that might need addressing in the year ahead. Will another Medicare plan offer better options? You may be able to get better coverage or reduce costs by choosing another plan.

“Medicare’s Annual Enrollment only lasts 53 days, a vital time to review and make decisions that last a full year,” says Stark. For more information contact Toby Stark, Stark Associates Insurance Agency, toby@stark-associates.com or call 732-747-0411 or 1-800-430-1322.

Learn about Federal and state-level critical issues facing employers, and the latest strategies and solutions for them at a three-hour legal seminar during the breakfast meeting of JSAHR (Jersey Shore Association for Human Resources), open to the public, on Thursday, November 14 from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. at Jumping Brook Country Club, 210 Jumping Brook Road, Neptune.

Breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m., followed by announcements at 8:30 a.m. The speakers from Jackson Lewis law firm, Tinton Falls, N.J., at 9:00 a.m., are associates Cody Hubbs and Darran St. Ange; and principals Bianca Olivadoti and Luke Breslin.

A raffle benefitting the SHRM Foundation will be available. Registration including breakfast is $70 for JSAHR members; $100 for non-members; $55 for each first-time guest and those in-transition; and no charge for students with a valid ID; a Walk-in member is $80 and walk-in nonmember is $110. Registration is online at: http://jsahr.shrm.org/events or admin@jsahr.org or call JSAHR at 732-701-7155.

Attendees will gain insights into pending N.J. legislation about pay transparency, the Federal Trade Commission’s final rule banning non-competes, updates on N.J. Temporary Workers’ Bill of Rights, and final rules on pregnant workers Bill of Rights, among other employment law updates.

JSAHR is a SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) affiliated chapter. This program is pending one (1) SHRM PDC and one (1) HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute) recertification credit.

About Jackson Lewis Law Firm: Jackson Lewis P.C. is an American law firm that specializes in labor and employment law and assisting companies in facilitating immigration. It has a reputation as one of the top U.S. union-busting practices. Jackson Lewis is organized into 20 practice groups and 19 industry groups. The majority of these groups are focused on labor and employment law, but the firm also has expertise in healthcare and collegiate and professional sports law. Practice and industry group members are spread across all of the firm’s offices. The firm has over 950 attorneys and 61 offices, including its Puerto Rico office. The firm is a founding member of L&E Global Employers’ Counsel Worldwide, an alliance of workplace law firms in 20 countries.