County Library Announces March Events

COURT HOUSE – The Cape May County will host the following events and activities during the month of March.
Game Night
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Board Game Night for Adults” presented by Aaron Day. This program will be held every Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located 30 W. Mechanic Street.
Come out every Thursday to play board games in the library! Learn new games, play your favorites, and forget Monopoly ever existed. Meet new people, have some snacks (not included) and enjoy some great board games! Ages 18 and up are welcome to join in.
Jewelry Making Course
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Beginner Wire Techniques: Create a Sea Glass Pendant” presented by Suzanne McKeon. This program will take place March 2 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cape May City Library located at 110 Ocean Street, Cape May City.
Learn to create a stunning sea glass pendant using silver plated wire. This technique is called a “border wrap” and can be used on sea glass, shells, cabochons and large beads as well as many other things. It is a great intermediate technique for those with basic wire working knowledge.
Each participant will need to bring tools for working with wire jewelry. Kits can be found at craft stores like Michaels.
Suzanne has lived in Cape May County for over 25 years and has been an avid sea glass collector and jewelry maker since she was 5 years old. She specializes in sea glass jewelry, wire working techniques, and silversmithing. She enjoys teaching both beginner and intermediate classes.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. A $12.00 non-refundable materials fee is due upon registration. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m. For additional information, please call 463-6386 or visit online at www.cmclibrary.org.
Blood Drive
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Blood Donation Drive” presented by the American Red Cross. This program will take place March 3 from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Wildwood Crest Library located at 6300 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood Crest.
Blood donation is a simple four step process: registration, medical history and mini-physical, donation, and refreshments. Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs blood, and the number one reason donors say they give blood is because they “want to help others.” Please donate blood today! To make an appointment with American Red Cross please visit www.redcrossblood.org/make-donation. Walk-ins are welcomed.
Clara Barton and a circle of her acquaintances founded the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C. on May 21, 1881. The American Red Cross exists to provide compassionate care to those in need. Their network of generous donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering here at home and around the world, through five key service areas: disaster relief, supporting America’s military families, lifesaving blood, health and safety services, and international services.
Quilting Class
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Small Applique Quilt” presented by Merry May. This four-week course will take place on Fridays, beginning March 3 at 12:30 p.m. at the Lower Cape Library located at 2600 Bayshore Road, Villas.
Learn hand appliqué and hand quilting techniques as you make a beautiful 12” by 32” table runner in this course.
Attendees will need the following supplies: rotary cutter, mat, and ruler (use instructor’s or bring your own); basic sewing supplies including pins, seam ripper, fabric and paper scissors, pencils for marking fabric, and thimble; pen and paper for taking notes; good quality thread in light, medium and dark shades of grey or beige; hand sewing needles in the following sizes and types: size 11 Sharps, size 9 Betweens, and a size 20 or 22 Chenille (instructor will have these available); the “Vine and Berries” pattern by Edyta Sitar (included in registration fee); 1/3 yard of a light background, simple fabric; 1/4 yard darker fabric for binding outer edge; 1/3 yard fabric for quilt backing; a 14” x 34” piece of lightweight batting; and a collection of 9” square scraps in a variety of colors: green, pink, cheddar, brown/green, blue green, berry, and black.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m. A non-refundable materials fee of $9.00 is due at time of registration.
Natural History Program
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Milkweed for Monarchs” presented by Pat Sutton. This program will take place March 6 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located at 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
Monarch butterflies make the most amazing migration of any insect in the world.  Join Pat Sutton to learn all about their life cycle and journey from Mexico to the U.S. and Canada in the spring, and back to Mexico for the winter months.  Their future depends on healthy milkweed stands here in the U.S. where their numbers multiply (spring through fall).  There are many different and beautiful native milkweeds that you can plant in your own garden to help create a path of milkweed from Mexico to Canada that will benefit Monarchs.  Plant it and they will come!  Don’t plant it and someday they may not come.
Pat Sutton has keenly studied the natural world for over 30 years (as the naturalist at the Cape May Point State Park in the 1970s and 1980s and for 21 years, until 2007, as the naturalist and program director at the Cape May Bird Observatory). Pat has an undergraduate degree in Literature and a Masters Degree in Environmental Education.  She and her husband (Clay Sutton) wrote the landmark book, Birds and Birding at Cape May (2006), the in-depth result of their efforts over many years documenting and protecting the migration and the Cape May area that they so love. Other books by Pat and Clay include How to Spot Butterflies (1999), How to Spot Hawks & Eagles (1996), and How to Spot an Owl (1994). Today Pat is a free-lance writer, naturalist, educator, lecturer, tour leader, and wildlife garden consultant. Her own wildlife garden is a teaching garden included on many tours and featured in programs and workshops she teaches.  For more information go to Pat and Clay’s website: www.patandclaysutton.com
Cooking Demonstration
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Cape Cuisine: Tapas” presented by Mark Kalla. This program will take place March 7 at 1:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located at 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
Join us as we prepare wonderfully popular Spanish tapas! They are perfect for festivals and get-togethers, and they make delicious appetizers, snacks, or light dinner fare. 
Chef Mark Kalla is the head chef at Green Cuisine Restaurant in Stone Harbor, and had his own restaurant, The Barrier Island Inn. He has been the executive chef at the Backyard Restaurant and later for Fish Tales. Currently Chef Mark Kalla is also the production Chef for Congress Hall in Cape May.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Gardening Class
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Starting Seeds” presented by Joe Alvarez. This program will take place March 7 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located at 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
Dreary grey days of winter got you down?  One way to get out of the winter blues is to start planning for the spring garden. The best way to begin is by planting some seeds. Come for a quick chat on which seeds are best for spring planting. Then join us for a little planting before you go.
Bring your favorite spring flower or vegetable seeds. We will provide the multipacks and soil. Then we’ll help you with planting them and how to grow them indoors. 
Joe Alvarez has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology/Environmental Science, is a board member of the NJ Bee Keepers association, a founding member of the Cape May County Beach Plum Association, and is active in many county, agricultural, and environmental programs in South Jersey.
Nature Program
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Peregrine Falcons: Flying High” presented by Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey (CWF). This program will be held March 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the Upper Cape Library located at 2050 Tuckahoe Road, Petersburg.
The peregrine falcon, also known as the duck hawk, is the largest falcon in New Jersey, and the world’s fastest animal, capable of flying at speeds over 200 miles an hour. Just a few decades ago, peregrine falcons disappeared east of the Mississippi River — yet today we can celebrate 28 active falcon nests in New Jersey. For the world’s fastest animal to again thrive in New Jersey speaks both to the peregrine falcon’s inspiring resiliency and to the hard work and visionary leadership of those who worked for their successful comeback.  This program gives the public a glimpse into the life of the peregrine falcon, the adaptations that make him unique, and how he overcame adversity in the Garden State.
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey (CWF) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of New Jersey’s endangered and threatened wildlife and the habitats they depend on. We carry out our mission by researching and managing rare animal species, restoring habitat, educating New Jersey’s residents, and engaging volunteers in our conservation projects.
Cooking Demonstration
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Sweets for the Shore: Eating of the Green” presented by Chef Ruth Latorre. This program will take place March 11 at 1:00 p.m. at the Stone Harbor Library located at 9516 2^nd Avenue, Stone Harbor.
Dust off your shamrocks and join Chef Latorre as she demonstrates St Patrick’s Day-themed recipes. Learn to make and taste super green shamrock soup, old fashioned soda bread, and roll your own sweet Irish potatoes!
Chef Ruth Latorre CWPC has been a baking and pastry chef/educator at the Academy of Culinary Arts in Mays Landing, NJ for the past 5 years. She is also an alumni of the program. Her previous industry jobs include working at The Borgata in their famous Bakeshop for 10 years and 1 year with Wolfgang Puck’s Atlantic City restaurant in the pastry department. She is a cake decorator and loves making breads. She is also an avid gardener, enjoys canning and preserving and recently entered into a joint venture with colleagues to begin beekeeping this year.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Art Class
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Mosaics by Michele: Sea Glass Mason Jar” presented by Michele Pascuillo. This program will take place March 13 at 1:00 p.m. at the Sea Isle City Library located at 4800 Central Avenue, Sea Isle City.
Decorate a plain mason jar with yummy, beautiful tumbled sea glass. Everything you need will be provided, but feel free to bring your own found treasures to add. The finished jar can be used with string lights or a candle to make it glow from within. Leave this one-day workshop with your completed masterpiece!
Instructor Michele Pasciullo is a graphic designer with an AA from Cumberland County College.  A member of Ocean City Fine Arts League, she’s displayed and sold her work at local shops as well as given home parties and workshops.  Join her in creating your very own masterpiece!
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. A $15.00 non-refundable materials fee is due upon registration. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Music Program
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Big Band Era” presented by Rich Chiemingo of the MAC. This program will take place March 15 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located at 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
Listen to the music of the Big Band Era, and learn about the artists that brought the music to life. We will be featuring music from Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Harry James, and Glenn Miller.
Rich has a professional career in music specializing in tuba/trombone performance. After eight years as an army musician, he played in many bands and orchestras in New York City including those of Frank Sinatra, Guy Lombardo, and Mel Torme.
The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities (MAC) is a local organization based in Cape May, New Jersey, which promotes the arts throughout our area by offering local programs, educational opportunities, outreach, and more.
Organization Workshop
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Organized for Life: MOM (Moms Organizing Mayhem)” presented by Nancy Underwood. This program will take place March 15 at 6:00 p.m. at the Lower Cape Library located at 2600 Bayshore Road, Villas.
This class is for moms and caregivers of all ages. We will help you organize your home, time, and schedule to help keep up with the different phases of your children’s lives and (yes!) yours, too!
Nancy Underwood, owner of Organized for Life! llc., is an expert in home organizing and home staging serving South Jersey counties.  Bringing her wide range of experience as well as her trademark humor, Underwood simplifies the organizing process and creates an atmosphere where everyone can easily transition her techniques to practical use. Underwood is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, Faithful Organizers, and a South Jersey Organizers Group.  
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Author Visit
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Fresh Voices: A Treasure Hunt with Author Bhadrena Restione.” This program will take place March 16 at 6:00 p.m. at the Stone Harbor Library located at 9516 2^nd Avenue, Stone Harbor.
After her retirement, Bhandrena Restione discovered the art of memoir writing, and ever since, she has been unable to stop recalling and recording the moments of her life. She has a floodgate of stories to unleash about her full life with her lovely husband, wonderful children, and career in special education – all of which stretched the limits at times. A North Jersey native and current South Jersey resident, Bhandrena would love to share with you some of the moments of her 88 years as a self-professed “true Jersey girl.”
Bhandrena Restione worked in special education at Margaret Mace Elementary School until her retirement in 2001. While living in North Jersey, she vacationed in Cape May County for 58 years before permanently relocating 26 years ago. She has three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and she is currently working on her second book.
Dance Class
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Learn to Line Dance” presented by Jennie Ayres. This 8-week course will take place on Thursdays starting March 16 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sea Isle City Library located at 4800 Central Avenue, Sea Isle City.
Are you looking for a fun social activity that will get your body moving? Look no further than the Sea Isle library where you can learn to line dance. Socialize, exercise, and learn something new!  
Jennie Ayres has been a certified dance instructor for 40 years and a line dancing instructor for the past 20 years. Ayres has taken part in regional and international line dancing competitions and is part of the local dance troupe, The Dancing Divas.   
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Craft Class
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Knitting a Cowl” presented by Debbie West. This two-week program will take place March 17 and 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the Stone Harbor Library located at 9516 2^nd Avenue, Stone Harbor.
This class is for experienced knitters interested in using circular needles.  Basic knowledge of knit and purl are needed.  This cowl is made in the round at any desired length.
Attendees will need to bring the following supplies: one pair size 15 U.S. straight needles; one 24-inch-long circular size 15 needles; 2 balls of bulky yarn (5 or 6) or one medium weight (4), and a sport weight (2 or 3) fancy fun fur or metallic yarn to match. 
For Debbie West, crafts have always fascinated her, especially creating and producing actual items to use and wear.  She has been working with yarn and sewing since she was a child with her grandmother.  Debbie is a retired nurse who has been a resident of Cape May County for 14 years. She enjoys sharing her knowledge with others and has been teaching for 20 years as well as promoting her items at local bazaars.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Lecture
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Learning about Solar for your Home or Business” presented by Christine Meehan. This program will take place at the following locations and times:
Upper Cape Library – March 20 at 6:00 p.m. at 2050 Tuckahoe Road, Petersburg.
Cape May Court House Library – March 21 at 6 p.m. at 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
Lower Cape Library – March 22 at 6:00 p.m. at 2600 Bayshore Road, Villas.
Cape May City Library* – March 23 at 6:00 p.m. at 110 Ocean Street, Cape May.
Did you know that installing solar power in your home could reduce or eliminate your utility bill, increase property value, and save the planet all at once? Learn all the facts and answer questions you may have about costs, qualification, installation, and more.
*Class size is limited at the Cape May City Library; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend at this location only. Registration opens Feb. 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Cooking Demonstration
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Baking with Betty: Easter Treats” presented by Betty O’Hala. This program will be held March 21 at 1:00 p.m. at the Wildwood Crest Library located at 6300 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood Crest.
Betty will be teaching everyone how to make coconut cream pie cupcakes and chocolate cream eggs just in time for Easter!
Elizabeth “Betty” O’Hala is a resident of West Wildwood. She and her husband, Carl, moved to the borough in 1967 as young newlyweds and soon started their family, consisting of three sons. In the early 1990’s, Betty started teaching cake decorating at the Cape May County Vocational School’s Evening Program. She continues to teach at the Cape May County Technical High School as the instructor for the Basic Baking Classes, which she enjoys very much. In addition, to baking and cake decorating, Betty also enjoys working on stained glass projects, gardening, and spending time with her eight grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 21 at 9:00 a.m.
Health Program
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Holistic Health Demystified: Teas and Tonics” presented by Rebecca Horin. This program will be held March 27 at 6:00 p.m. at the Stone Harbor Library located at 9516 2^nd Avenue, Stone Harbor.
Taste and learn how to make healing and refreshing beverages. See how your next sip can help eliminate digestive woes, boost immunity, remove toxins, alleviate stress, and taste good!
A collision of contradiction between the modern food and health industry has come to the forefront in our culture and caused a generation’s further evaluation of the modern lifestyle that may have a toxic hand in the deterioration of health and the rise of illnesses and diseases. Autoimmune diseases, allergies, digestive disorders, and mental health conditions have become commonplace. Food as medicine is not a novel notion, but it is one that is resurfacing in light of the aforementioned. Learn and discuss practical ways to implement and achieve a lifestyle of comprehensive health.
Rebecca Horin is a health advocate with a background in the world of wellness for over 10 years. A Cape May County native, Rebecca currently works for the Cape May County Library while continuing to instruct in fitness and holistic health.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 21 at 9:00 a.m.
Book Sale
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “The Big Book Sale!” This three-day event will take place March 27, 28, and 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
It’s time again for our semi-annual book sale! We invite you to peruse our giant collection of books, magazines, and media for all ages where there is sure to be something of interest for everyone. Prices for items are as follows:
$0.50 for hard and soft cover books
$0.25 for small paperbacks
$0.10 for magazines
$1.00 for DVDs and CDs
$0.50 for cassettes and videos
On the first day of the sale, all items will be full price. On day two, all items will be ½ price. On the final day, patrons will be invited to pay only $1 to fill a shopping bag with items.
Cooking Demonstration
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Eating Mindfully: Gazpacho with Cilantro and Parsley” presented by Chef Adam Formento and sponsored by Green Street Market of Rio Grande. This program will be held March 28 at 1:00 p.m. at the Cape May Court House Library located at 30 W. Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House.
Join Chef Adam Formento as he prepares a wonderful gazpacho with cilantro and parsley. Learn about this traditionally Spanish vegetable soup, and pick up the best tips for preparing this cool, refreshing dish.
As long as Adam Formento can remember, food has been the top priority in his family. After spending sixteen years in restaurant kitchens across the country, Formento has returned to his roots in Cape May County to raise his own family. He hopes to help motivate healthy, organic, sustainable, and locally-based food practices. Though not at all a vegetarian, he believes strongly in a balanced approach to cooking and finding the most delicious way possible in which to do it. Formento currently works at Green Street Market in Rio Grande.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 21 at 9:00 a.m.
Cooking Demonstration
The Cape May County Library invites the public to join in “Savor the Flavor Celebrates National Nutrition Month” presented by Georgia Saler. This program will take place on Friday, March 31st at 1:00 p.m. at the Wildwood Crest Library located at 6300 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood Crest.
Come celebrate National Nutrition Month with Georgia Saler, RDN, and “put your best fork forward!” We will be creating creamy, garlicy Swiss chard topped with Omega-3 rich nuts — a nutritious, delicious Italian dish that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.  We will also make energy bites that can be eaten as a healthy snack or treat.
Georgia Saler, RDN, is an experienced Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist. She is the founder/owner of Vitality Nutrition and Wellness Center in Linwood, New Jersey. Vitality is a new community that offers an array of services to heal and improve the quality of your life.  They provide private nutrition counseling, group nutrition and cooking classes, yoga, barre classes and meditation sessions.
Class size is limited; therefore, registration and a valid library card are needed to attend. Registration opens Feb. 21 at 9:00 a.m.