• Organizing one’s assets in the present will help beneficiaries in the future to
navigate financial and legal matters. The Ocean County Library Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, will present “Estate Planning, Wills and Probate,” at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 8.
The overview will be presented by attorney and retired Superior Court Judge Daniel
D’Alessandro. Register at www.theoceancountylibrary.org/events for this free program. Details: 732-928-4400.
• In honor of Black History Month and Presidents’ Day, the American Historical Theatre will recreate three notable Americans, whose lives spanned three centuries, at the Ocean County Library. Appearances will take place at the Toms River Branch, “James Forten: Philadelphia Businessman, Abolitionist and ‘A Man of Color,’ ” portrayed by Keith Henley, at 2 p.m. Feb. 4; the Barnegat Branch, “Abraham Lincoln: The Man Who Saved the Union,” portrayed by Bob Gleason, at 2 p.m. Feb. 15; and the Jackson Branch, “Madam C.J. Walker: America’s First Female Self-Made Millionaire,” portrayed by Dr. Daisy Century, at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 28. Register at www.theoceancountylibrary.org/events to attend any one of these three
free programs.
• The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is inviting New Jersey high school students to create original music with substance use prevention messages as part of the 2023 Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey music competition. The competition is open to any type of music genre or any musical style. Entries accepted through March 5. Students interested in sharing their musical talent can submit original music with lyrics about substance use prevention. The finalists’ songs will be showcased in a virtual Prevention Concert on April 26. For competition rules, contact Diane Higgins at 973-275-7985 or diane@drugfreenj.org.
• For individuals who are dealing with depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety, there is support available that is free, confidential and led by a trained facilitator. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance meets on Wednesdays from 12:30-2 p.m. at Brighter Days Community Wellness Center, 268 Bennetts Mills Road, Jackson. There are no physicians or therapists in the group, just individuals who live with a mental health condition. Members strive to support to each other and share their stories. Details: Valerie, 610-766-0658, or visit dbsalliance.org
• Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey is seeking volunteers who are willing to make a difference with individuals who are experiencing the challenge of end-of-life. Volunteers dedicate a small amount of time each month to provide companionship-friendly visits; play cards; sewing, knitting or craft projects; music enrichment; pet therapy; and office or administrative assistance. Dove Hospice Services is also seeking veterans who are interested in providing compassion, support and outreach to fellow veterans and their families. Visits can be made to individuals living in facilities or private homes. Ongoing training is provided. Volunteers must be 18 or older and a COVID vaccine is required. Details: Michelle Rutigliano, 732-405-3035.
Items for the Datebook may be sent to mrosman@newspapermediagroup.com. Please submit items at least two weeks prior to a scheduled event.
