Compiled and edited by the Lakehurst ITT Manager.  Call ahead for possible schedule changes due to weather or other conditions.

CHILDREN (ALSO SEE MISC.)

2-17-12
Duplo Play for children ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver at the Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library, 10 Lacey Road, Forked River from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Drop in program. For details call 609-693-8566.

Crafter-Piece Theatre Presents: African Masks program for ages 5 to 9 at the Manchester Branch of the Ocean County Library, 21 Colonial Dr., Manchester at 11 a.m. Learn about African Masks and make one of your own. FREE but registration is required. For details or to register call 732-657-7600.

2-18-12
The Wallaby Tales Traveling Zoo Presents Mammal Mania at the Wall Township Branch of the Ocean County Library. Includes a Wallaby (small kangaroo), rabbit, guinea pig and Patagonian cavy. Program runs from 1 to 2 p.m. Also Face painting. For details call 732-449-8877.

Nature Detectives: Whose Toes are Those? Program for ages 7 to 11 at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Georgia Tavern Road, Howell from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Learn to identify animal tracks and make a track cast to take home. Cost: $12.50 per child. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1

Scarf & Mittens Nature Hike for children ages 5 to 7 at Holmel Park Activity Center, Holmdel from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Hike then create Pine Cone Creatures. Wear comfortable shoes. Terrain includes hills. Cost: $12 per parent / child team, $6 each additional person. Pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Pajama Night: Story Telling Under the Stars, The Robert J Novins Planetarium, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River at 6:00 pm. Storybooks come to life with this cozy, family-friendly event. Giant-sized pictures float among the stars to accompany the tales. Children will enjoy the stories and learn a bit about the stars and other objects visible in the night time sky. Feel free to wear comfy pajamas, bring a pillow or blanket and spend a fun and relaxing hour under the planetarium stars. Recommended for any child that still enjoys bedtime stories. Use parking lot #2. $ Information: 732-255-0342 or www.ocean.edu/planet.htm

2-18 through 3-14-12 (Saturdays)
Sleeping Beauty by the Paper Moon Puppet Theatre, 171 first Ave., Suite 8, Atlantic Highlands at 2 p.m. Tickets: $9, under 2 years old free. Reservations required. For details call 732-787-0400.

2-19-12
Hungry Birds Handmade Treats program for ages 7 to 12 at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Georgia Tavern Road, Howell from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Learn easy to do bird food recipes and how to identify birds and attract them to your yard. Cost: $12.50 per child. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1

Scarf & Mittens Nature Hike for children ages 5 to 7 at Huber Woods Environmental Center, Middletown from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Hike then create Pine Cone Creatures. Wear comfortable shoes. Terrain includes hills. Cost: $12 per parent / child team, $6 each additional person. Pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

2-22-12
Nature Buddies: the Fox program for ages 3 to 5 with an adult at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Georgia Tavern Road, Howell from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Cost: $8 per child. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Make a Scarf program for children in grades 3 to 6 including building a knitting loom and learning how to make a warm, fashionable scarf at the Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library, 2 Jackson Dr., Jackson at 7 p.m. FREE but registration is required. For details or to register call 732-928-4400

2-23-12
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Stars program for ages 2 ½ to 5 with an adult at the Dorbrook Recreation Area Visitor Center from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Parent and child cut out, bake and share multi-layers cookies. Cost: $15 per parent / child pair and $10 each additional sibling.
Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

How Do Dinosaurs? Puppet Show for ages 2 to 5 at the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick at 4 p.m. and at the Point Pleasant Beach Branch, 710 McLean Ave. at 10:30 a.m. FREE but registration is required. For details or to register call 732-477-4513 for Brick or 732-892-4575 for Point Pleasant Beach.

2-25-12
Legos with Bricks4Kidz program for child in grades 1 through 6 at the Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library, 2 Jackson Dr., Jackson at 2 p.m. FREE but registration is required. For details or to register call 732-928-4400

2-26-12
Funny Freckled Frogs program for ages 4 & 5 with an adult at the Holmdel Park Activity Center, Holmdel from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Meet a live toad or frog, spend time with a frog puppet and learn about frogs through a variety of activities. Cost: $12 per parent / child pair and $6 each additional person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

2-27-12
Pre-School Story Time for ages 4 & 5 with an adult: May Patches Make a Quilt at the Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library,10 E. Lacey Road, Lacey at 10 a.m. Stories with Black History Month themes, songs and fun. FREE but pre-registration required. For details or to register call 609-693-8566.

MUSIC & THEATER

2-17-12
Carolina Chocolate Drops at the Pollak Theatre, Monmouth University, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch at 8 p.m. Tickets: $32. For details call 732-263-6889.

Rutgers Wind Ensemble at the Nicholas Music Center, George St., Douglas Campus of Rutgers University, New Brunswick at 7:30 p.m. FREE.

2-17 & 2-18-12
Fiddler on the Roof starring John Preece at the State Theatre of New Jersey, New Brunswick. Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets: $32 to $67 discounts available through the web site. For details call 732-246-7469 or go to www.StateTheatreNJ.org

Mornings at Seven, comedy, by the South Street Players at Wesley Hall, St. Andrews Methodist Church, Mercer Ave., Spring Lake. Tickets: $22.00 for adults, $20 for seniors and students. For details call 732-447-5169.

The Boys Next Door at the Post Theater, 67 Hartshorne Drive, Sandy Hook at 8 p.m. Includes dessert and performance. Tickets: adults $20, seniors and students $18. For details call 732-471-8268 or go to www.soarproductions.org

2-17 through 2-19-12
Déjà vu Rock and Roll Revue at the Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College, 1300 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets: $20. For details call 609-570-3333 or go to www.kelseyatmccc.org

August Wilson’s Jitney at the Two River Theatre, 21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank. Set in 1977 Pittsburgh, in a makeshift storefront depot for gypsy cab drivers. The men share stories and gossip, two young lovers fight for their future, and the station owner confronts his long-estranged son. Tickets: adults over 30 $37 to $57 adults 30 and younger $24. For details call 732-345-1400.

Romance.com at the Grange Playhouse, 4860 Route 9 South, Howell. Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets: adults $15, seniors $12. For details call 732-984-7128.

Ma Noah, award winning drama by playwright Mark Clayton Southers blends humor and hard hitting truth at the Stockton College Performing Arts Center, Galloway. For details call 609-652-9000 or go to www.stockton.edu

2-17 through 2-25-12 (selected dates)
Crimes of the Heart at the First Avenue Playhouse, 123 First Ave., Atlantic Highlands. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets: adults $22, seniors $18 (except Saturdays). Dinner packages available. For details call 732-291-7552.

Lost in Yonkers by the Monmouth Players at the Navesink Library, Sears & Monmouth Avenues, Middletown. Tickets: adults $17, students and seniors $14. Reservations required. For details or reservations call 732-291-9211.

2-17 through 2-26-12 (Fridays through Sundays)
How the Other Half Loves at the Center Playhouse, 35 South St., Freehold. Fridays and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Dessert and show. Tickets: adults $25, seniors $23. For details call 732-462-9093 or go to www.centerplayers.org

2-17, 2-18, 2-24 & 2-25-12
Dirty Work at the Crossroads, a classic melodrama at the Spring Lake Theatre Company, 300 Madison Ave., Spring Lake at 8 p.m. Tickets: adults $28, seniors and students $26 and children under 12 $20. For details call 732-449-4530.

2-17 through 2-26-12 (selected dates)
Bye Bye Birdie at the Actor’s Workshop, 76 Monmouth Road, Ocean Township by Yellow Door Productions. Tickets: adults $15, seniors over 62 and students 11 and younger $12. For details call 732-695-3902.

2-18-12
Beau Soleil and Marcia Ball: A Musical Mardi Gras Celebration at the Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank at 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 to $45 plus handling fees. For details call 732-842-9000.

Zydeco-A-Go-Go, Mardi Gras, Cajun, Creole and Blues music at the Monmouth County Library, 125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan at 2 p.m. For details call 732-431-7220.

Black History Month Jazz Concert with Derrick Pierre at the Stafford Branch of the Ocean County Library, 129 N. Main St., Manahawkin from 2 to 4 p.m. FREE but registration required. For details or to register call 609-597-3381.

2-19-12
Concert: Pat Karwan & Mary Lutton, Ocean County Artists Guild, Ocean and Chestnut Avenues. Island Heights. Doors open at 6:30, concert begins at 7:30. Original songs and pop classics with acoustic guitar. Come early and view the art galleries. $5 per person. Information: 732-270-3111 or www.ocartistsguild.org

2-20-12
President’s Day Ticket Sale at the Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank from 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. $10 TICKETS for the following shows: Quantities may be limited

2/24 Patrizio Buanne
2/25 25Years of Phoenix
3/2 Rhythm of the Dance by the National Dance Company of Ireland
3/9 The Summer of Love 2, Music of the Woodstock Generation
3/10 Monmouth Civic Chorus: Verdi’s Requiem
3/11 Mike Birbiglia’s “My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend”
3/16 Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood “The Two Man Group”
3/18 Metropolitan Klezmer
3/24 One Man Star Wars Trilogy
4/4 Video Games Live
4/13 Sinbad
4/20 & 4/27 The Wizard of Oz by Phoenix Productions
5/4 La Traviata by Dicapo Opera Theatre
5/19 Get the Led Out 6/1 An Evening of Doo Wop
7/13 & 7/20 Legally Blonde by Phoenix Productions
9/14 & 9/21 My Fair Lady by Phoenix Productions

For details call 732-842-9000. Note there is a $7 per order fee to telephone order and a $2 service fee for purchases at the box office.

2-21-12
Genghis Blues program for African American History Month at the Monmouth County Library, 125 Symmes Dr., Manalapan at 2 and 6:30 p.m. For details call 732-431-7220.

Traveling Light a National Theatre of London Live Show in HD at the Pollak Theatre, Monmouth University, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch at 7:30 p.m. For details call 732-263-6889.

2-23 through 2-25-12
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, The Strand Theatre, 400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood. Thursday senior citizen matinee with a box lunch at 2 p.m. and performance at 4 p.m. for $13 plus service fee. Friday at 7 pm. for $19. Red Carpet Reception Friday from 5 pm – 6:45 pm additional cost and Saturday at 2 & 7 pm. for $19. Performance presented by the Ocean County Vocational Technical School’s Performing Arts Academy. $ Information: 732-367-7789 or www.ocvts.org

2-24-12
Patrizio Buanne Concert at the Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank at 8 pm Known for spectacular performances that truly engage the audience, Patrizio has an instinctive ability to convey real emotion as a singer. Italian compositions with which he made his name, but there are also standards from the Great American Songbook, and new songs written specifically for him. Tickets: $29.50 to $59.50 plus service fees.

Cowboy Junkies at the Pollak Theatre, Monmouth University, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch at 8 p.m. Tickets $35 – $55. For details call 732-263-6889.

2-25-12
Come to Your Senses Concert, Musician on a Mission Benefit Concert at the Monmouth Museum, Brookdale Community College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft in the Main Gallery from 5 to 8 p.m. with gourmet samples, punch (with a punch!), exhibits, hand and neck messages. Tickets $20 per person. For details call 732-747-2266.

Metropolitan Opera: Ernani live in HD at the Pollak Theatre, Monmouth University, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch. For details call 732-263-6889 or go to www.monmouth.edu/arts

2-26 & 2-28-12
Proof, A Walnut Street Theatre Production at the Algonquin Arts Theatre, 173 Main St., Manasquan. Sunday at 4 p.m. and Tuesday at 2 p.m. Winner of both the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play, Proof tells the story of Catherine, a young woman who has sacrificed college so that she can take care of her brilliant, yet mentally ill, father. This remarkable and luminous play about fathers and daughters, genius and insanity, legacy and truth. Tickets: adults $27, seniors $25 and students $18. For details call 732-528-9211.

MISC.

2-17-12
Financial Planning Web Sites program at the Lakewood Branch of the Ocean County Library, 301 Lexington Ave., Lakewood from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Requires basic computer and mouse skills. Topics include budgeting, retirement strategies and saving for college. For details call 732-363-1435.

Coldest Part of the Year Night Walk at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Georgia Tavern Road, Howell from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For all ages, under 18 with an adult. Bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. Hot coca and cookies after the walk. Cost: $6.50 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Robert J. Novins Planetarium, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River. Wonders of the Winter Sky, 7:00 pm and Bad Astronomy: Myths & Misconceptions, 8:15 pm. $ Information: 732-255-0343 or go to www.ocean.edu/campus/planetarium

2-17 and 2-24-12
Winter Picnic and Campfire Fun at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Georgia Tavern Road, Howell from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Bring a picnic and join us for an indoor fire and make s’mores, play games and drink hot chocolate. Cost: $7.50 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

2-17 through 2-19-12
17th Annual Atlantic City Recreational Vehicle and Camping Show at the Atlantic City Convention Center, One Miss America Way, Atlantic City. Friday noon to 8 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: adults $12, children 12 and under free. For Details call 609-449-2000 or go to www.gsevents.com

New Jersey Flower & Garden Show at the New Jersey Convention Center in Edison. Thursday 1 to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission: adults $15, children 12 to 17 $6 and free for children 11 and under.
Container garden and flower arranging on site competitions. For details call 800-332-397f6 or go to www.njflowershow.com

Sports and Memorabilia Show at the Garden State Exhibition Center, 50 Atrium Dr., Somerset. Friday from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $10. For details go to http://gtsportsmarketing.com/nj2012_Feb/index.html

2-17 and 2-20-12
Harlem Globetrotters 2012 World Tour at the Izod Center, Meadowlands, East Rutherford. Friday at 7 p.m. and Monday at 1 p.m. Tickets: $15 to $200. For details call 800-745-3000 or go to www.ticketmaster.com

2-17 through 2-29-12
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Boardwalk and Parkway, Point Pleasant Beach. For details call 732-899-1659 or go to www.jenkinsons.com
Feeding Schedules:
Sun & Tue: Seals at 10 am, 1 & 4 pm., Pacific Sharks at 4 pm, Alligators at 1:30 pm, Penguins at 11 & 3:30 pm
Mon & Thur: Seals at 10 am, 1 & 4 pm, Pacific Sharks at 4 pm, Penguins at 11 & 3:30 pm
Wed & Sat: Seals at 10 am, 1 & 4 pm, Atlantic Sharks at 1:30 pm, Penguins at 11 & 3:30 pm
Fri: Seals at 10 am, 1 & 4 pm, Alligators at 1:30 pm, Penguins at 11 & 3:30 pm

Commuters, Immigrants and Vacationers, Oh My! Walking tours of the CRRNG Terminal at Liberty State Park from 9 a.m.to 1 p.m., FREE. For details call 201-915-3412.

2-18-12
Fire & Ice: The Folklore of February and Video: Liberty: Are we to be a Nation? Part III at the Visitor Center Museum, Washington Crossing State Part at 2 p.m. FREE. For details call 609-737-9303.

In Search of Pinelands Winter Life Hike at Wharton State Forest at 10 a.m. A 2 to 4 mile hike. FREE. For details call 609-567-4559.

Winter Kitchen program at Howell Living History Farm, Mercer County from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details call 609-737-3299.

From Thoughts to Print: Getting Published in the 21st Century program at the Middletown Public Library Community Room, 55 New Monmouth Road, Middletown from 2 to 4 p.m. FREE. For details call 732-671-3700 ext. 353.

Barnegat Bay Enviroscape program for families featuring games, participatory demonstrations, fun facts and serious discussion on protecting the bay at the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick at 2 p.m. FREE but registration is required. For details or to register call 732-477-4513.

Conversations with Moses, based on conversations between Harriet “Moses” Tubman, ex-slave and her biographer, at the Point Pleasant Borough Branch of the Ocean County Library, 834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant Borough at 2 p.m. FREE but registration required. For details or to register call 732-295-1555.

11th Annual Women’s Lifestyle Expo at the Pine Belt Arena, Toms River North High School, Old Freehold Road, Toms River from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring food, fashion, fitness, cooking demonstrations, health, travel, prizes and more. Appearances by Catherine Hickland of One Life to Live, Mark Anthony, psychic medium and author and Dr. Robi Ludwing psychotherapist. For details call 732-681-9591.

Long Seasons of Color in Your Garden program for adults at the Deep Cut Gardens Garden Center, Middletown from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn about shrubs, annuals and perennials for shade and sun and how to use them for maximum color. Cost: $15 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1

Plan a Theme Garden program for ages 10 and up and families (under 18 with an adult) at the Deep Cut Gardens Garden Center, Middletown from 1 to 3 p.m. Cost: $15 per family (2 to 4 people) and $5 each additional person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1

Family Snowshoe Hike for ages 8 and up, under 18 with an adult at Thompson Park, Lincroft from 1 to 3 p.m. Hike will cover 1 to 3 miles on flat and gently rolling terrain. Meet at the 3 Barns Parking Lot. Cost: $24 per parent / child team, $5 each additional person. In the event of no snow the event will run as a hike. Pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Mardi Gras Weekend, Laurita Winery, 35 Archertown Road, New Egypt from noon to closing. Live jazz, cool blues and old swing music entertainment by Jumping Jack Strobel & the Swamp Boogie Trio. Information: 609-758-8000 or www.lauritawinery.com

Robert J. Novins Planetarium, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River. One World: One Sky Big Bird’s Adventure, 11:30 am; Wonders of the Winter Sky, 1:00 pm; Bad Astronomy: Myths & Misconceptions, 2:30 pm; Pajama Night, 6:00 pm; and Wonders of the Winter Sky, 8:15 pm. $ Information: 732-255-0343 or www.ocean.edu/campus/planetarium

African – Caribbean Carnival at the Neptune High School, Michael T. Lake Performing Arts Center, 25 Neptune Blvd., Neptune from noon to 4 p.m. Food, music, story telling, arts, singing and dancing performances. Exhibits and vendors. FREE admission. For details call 732-685-7854 or go to www.neptunetownship.org

9th Annual Mid-Winter Beach Run / Walk at First and Whiting Avenues, Manasquan to benefit the Manasquan First Aid Squad. Pre-registration $35, race day registration $38. Course is 1 ¾ miles with ¼ mile on the beach. For details go to www.jerseyrunner.com

2-18 & 2-19-12
Popular Train Show at the Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave., Toms River from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Model railroad buffs of all ages will enjoy the sights and sounds of O gauge and HO gauge trains operated by Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders. Steam train movies and tours of the museum. Admission: adults $3, children $2 or $5 per family. For details call 732-341-1880.

Mardi Gras Weekend, Laurita Winery, 35 Archertown Road, New Egypt from noon –to closing. Trumpeter music by The Lee Hogans Quartet performance on Sunday. Information: 609-758-8000 or www.lauritawinery.com

2-18, 2-19, 2-25, 2-26, 3-4, 3-10 and 3-11-12
Maple Sugaring Demonstrations at the Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center, 247 Southern Blvd., Chatham from noon to 4 p.m. Cost: $4 per person. For details call 973-635-6629.

2-18 through 4-7-12 (Saturdays)
Science Saturdays: The Natural History and Ecology of Barnegat Bay, Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences, 120 Long Beach Blvd., Loveladies from 10:00 to 11:30 am. This program is free and open to everyone, will include light refreshments before each program and includes a question and answer session with the speaker following the main presentation. Information: 609-494-1241 or www.lbifoundation.org

2-19-12
1830’s George Washington’s Birthday Celebration at the Village Chapel, Allaire State Park, Wall from noon to 3 p.m. Program at chapel starts at 1 p.m. FREE. For details call 732-919-3500.

George Washington’s Birthday, Johnson Ferry House, Washington Crossing State Park from 1 to 4 p.m. FREE. For details call 609-737-2515.

The Great Backyard Bird Count at Poricy Park, 345 Oak Hill Road, Middletown at 2 p.m. For details call 732-842-5966.

Family Geocashing at Tatum Park, Holland Activity Center, Middletown from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Learn how to use a hand held GPS and join in the game of finding and leaving treasures. Includes a two hour hike so dress for the weather and wear suitable footwear.

Bring your own GPS or use one of ours. Cost: $25 per parent / child team, $5 each additional person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Family Chocolate Making Class, Tuckerton Seaport, 120 W. Main St., Rt. 9, Tuckerton at 2 pm. In conjunction with the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce’s Chocolate Week celebration. $ Information: 609-296-8868 or www.tuckertonseaport.org

2-19 & 2-20-12
Woodedge at the Park Schooling Horse Show at the Horse Park of New Jersey, Route 524, Allentown. Indoor, unheated arena. Free admission and parking for spectators. For details go to www.woodedge.com

2-20-12
Behind the Scenes Tour at Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Boardwalk & Parkway, Point Pleasant Beach from 9:30 – 11:00 am. Discover what goes on behind the scenes at the aquarium while you tour the building from top to bottom. Sneakers are required. Ages 5 and up only. Pre-registration is required. $ Information: 732-899-1659 or www.jenkinsons.com

Family Day at the State Theatre of New Jersey, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick with Dan Zanes and Friends tickets $20 to $10, The Bindlestiff Family Circus, workshops, the Philadelphia Zoo, Free events, face painting and more. For details call 732-246-7469 or go to www.StateTheatreNJ.org

2-21-12
Monmouth University Provost’s Film Series: Made in Pakistan at the Pollak Theatre, Monmouth University, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch at 7:30 p.m. Documentary follows the lives of four Pakistani professionals who defy the prevailing stereotype of their country.

Snowmen Silver Spoons, acrylic paint on spoons craft for adults ages 18 and up at the Point Pleasant Beach Branch of the Ocean County Library, 10 McLean Ave., Point Pleasant Beach at 6:30 p.m. All materials provided. FREE but pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-892-4575.

2-21 and 2-28-12
AARP tax aides provide FREE tax preparation services at the Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library, 10 E. Lacey Road, Forked River by appointment starting at 1 p.m. For details or an appointment call 609-693-8566.

2-22-12
Demonstration: Sculpture , Ocean County Artists Guild, Ocean and Chestnut Avenues., Island Heights from 7 to 9 pm. Master Sculptor Brian Hanlon will demonstrate. Free, Information: 732-270-3111 or www.ocartistsguild.org

Healthy Cooking on a Budget demonstration and tasting at the Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library, 2 Jackson Dr., Jackson at 2 p.m. FREE but registration is required. For details or to register call 732-928-4400.

Afghanistan Through the Eyes of a Marine program by Marine veteran and photojournalist includes a slide presentation and question and answer session at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St., Toms River at 7 p.m. FREE but pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-349-6200.

2-23-12
Self Healing Techniques for Quilters, Stafford Twp. Community Center, Millcreek Rd., Beach Haven West from 7 to 9 pm. Hosted by the Pieceful Shores Quilters Guild. Information: 609-978-1438 or www.piecefulshoresquiltguild.org

Sensing African American Spirituals, Room A117, Arts & Community Center, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River at 2 pm. A musical presentation honoring Black History Month. Hear one woman’s expression of African American culture through the singing of spiritual songs born from her people’s experience. Parking is available in Parking Lot #2. Free admission. Information: 732-255-0400, ext. 2109 or www.ocean.edu

Arm Chair Traveler program: New Jersey’s Ten Best Bicycle Rides at the Thompson Park Visitor Center, Tulip Room, Lincroft from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $5 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Soothing Solutions for a Stressful World program for adults at the Point Pleasant Borough of the Ocean County Library, 834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant Borough at 11 am. Methods to cope with daily stress through an interactive presentation and relaxation demonstration. FREE but Pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-295-1555.

2-23 through 2-26-12
New Jersey Boat Sale and Expo at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison. Thursday and Friday noon to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: adults $6 children 16 and younger free. For details go to www.jerseyboatexpo.com

2-23 through 4-12-12 (Thursdays)
AARP tax aides provide FREE tax preparation services at the Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library, 2 Jackson Dr., Jackson from 9 a.m.to noon. Appointments are required. For details or for an appointment call 732-928-4400 ext. 3808.

2-24-12
Celebrate the Tibetan New Year (Losar) with an illustrated talk by Barbara Lipton with Tibetan Singing and a Taste of Tibet at the Paper Moon Puppet Theatre, 161 W. Garfield Ave., Atlantic Highlands at 8 p.m. For details call 732-737-7160.

Robert J. Novins Planetarium, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River. Laser Retro 7:00 pm; Laser U2 8:15 pm; and Laser Show to Laser Pink Floyd: The Wall 9:30 pm. $ Information: 732-255-0343 or www.ocean.edu/campus/planetarium

Moonlight Snowshoe or Hike at Thompson Park, Lincroft from 6 to 8 p.m. Hiking boots strongly recommended. Terrain consists of gentle slopes and trails with possible snow covering. Cost: $13 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

2-24 thorough 2-26-12
Atlantic City Classic Car Show at the Atlantic City Convention Center, One Convention Center Blvd., Atlantic City. Friday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. 1,000 collectible cars and celebrity memorabilia. Admission: Adults $20, children under 12 $5. For details call 609-449-2000 or go to www.acclassiccars.com

2-25-12
Video: Guardians of Barnegat Bay shown every half hour from 10 a.m.to 3 p.m. at Double Trouble State Park. FREE. For details call 732-341-4098.

Papermaking program at the Interpretive Center, Liberty State Park, Jersey City from 10 a.m. to noon. FREE but pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 201-915-3409.

Maple Sugaring at the Howell Living History Farm, Mercer County from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details call 609-737-3299.

Winter Ecology Walk at Smith’s Woods Area of Smithville Park, Smithville Road, Eastampton at 10 a.m. (general public) and at 2 p.m. (young naturalists ages 13 – 16). Bring binoculars. FREE. Inclement weather cancels. For details call 609-265-5858.

Surf Day 2012, New Jersey’s largest Surfcasting Show at Brookdale Community College, Newman Springs Road, Lincroft from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Diving the Princess Sophia, a presentation by Bart Malone on the SS Prince Sophia shipwreck at the InfoAge Museum, 2201 Marconi Road, Wall from 8 to 11 p.m. FREE but RSVP required. For details or to reserve space call 732-280-3000.

Sandy Hook Birding Program at Lot B, Bayberry, Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area at 8:45 a.m. Bring lunch and binoculars / scopes. Dress for the weather conditions. Pre-registration recommended. For details or to register call 732-872-2500.

Dinner and Show Night at Laurita, Laurita Winery, 35 Archertown Road, New Egypt at 7 pm. Michael Minor, singer and Ventriloquist. Information: 609-758-8000 or www.lauritawinery.com

International Polar Bear Day, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Boardwalk & Parkway, Point Pleasant Beach form 10 am to 5 pm. Polar Bears International has partnered with Jenkinson’s aquarium to help you learn more about polar bears and what we can do in our everyday lives to help these disappearing bears. $ Information: 732-899-1659 or www.jenkinsons.com

19th Annual Polar Bear Plunge, beach & ocean, in front of Aztec Ocean Resort, 901 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights. Registration from 9 am – 12:30 pm. Plunge at 1 pm. Benefits Special Olympics. Information: 732-854-8000 or www.njpolarplunge.org

Robert J. Novins Planetarium, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River. One World: One Sky Big Bird’s Adventure, 11:30 am; Wonders of the Winter Sky, 1:00 pm; Bad Astronomy: Myths & Misconceptions, 2:30 pm; Laser Retro 7:00 pm; Laser U2 8:15 pm; and Laser Show to Laser Pink Floyd: The Wall 9:30 pm. $ Information: 732-255-0343 or www.ocean.edu/campus/planetarium

Appraisal Day at Heart to Hearth, 62A Main Ave., Ocean Grove from 12:30 to 4:30. $10 for the first item, second item free. Limit 2 items. New Jersey licensed appraiser.

Creating a Moon Garden program for all ages, under 18 with an adult, at the Deep Cut Garden Center, Middletown from 1 to 3 p.m. Design and plant selection for gardens meant to be enjoyed in the dark. Cost: $15 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Plant Propagation Workshop for adults at the Deep Cut Garden Center, Middletown from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Learn to start plants from seeds, cuttings, air layering and division. Includes potting up some cuttings to take home. Cost: $15 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Just Sample It! Check out a variety of potential new hobbies and sports including in like skating, archery, disc golf and more at the Thompson Park Activity Barn, Thompson Park, Lincroft from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost: $10 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

911 Memorial Bus Trip with the Monmouth County Park System departing from Thompson Park Estate Grounds Parking Lot at 9 a.m. and returning at approximately 6 p.m. Price includes group reservations at the memorial, transportation and group leader. Cost: $31 per person. Pre-registration required, space is limited. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

Meet Author Julia Spencer and her Seeing Eye Dog Irene at the Point Pleasant Borough of the Ocean County Library, 834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant Borough at 2 p.m. Program includes a discussion of the author’s memoir “Looking Through a Keyhole”. Signed copies available for sale. FREE program but pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 732-295-1555.

Friends of the Library monthly book sale at the Waretown Branch of the Ocean County Library, 112 Main St, Waretown from 10 a.m.to 12 p.m.

Fly Fishing with Colin Archer, licensed, full time fly fishing guide in for Northeastern states at the Waretown Branch of the Ocean County Library, 112 Main St, Waretown at 11 a.m. FREE but pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 609-693-5133.

2-25 & 2-26-12
From Sap to Maple Syrup program for all ages, under 18 with an adult, at the Huber Woods South Farm, Middletown. Saturday from 10 a.m.to 12 p.m. or from 1 to 3 p.m. or Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather conditions. Includes taste testing samples. Cost: $10 per person. Pre-registration required. For details or to register call 732-842-4000 ext. 1.

2-26-12
Nature Hike from the Nature Center at Cheesequake State Park at 1 p.m. FREE. For details call 732-566-3208.

Maple Sugaring at the Nature Center, Washington Crossing State Park from 1:30 to 3 p.m. FREE but pre-registration is required. For details or to register call 609-737-0609.

George and Martha Tea at Poricy Park, 345 Oak Hill Road, Middletown at 2 p.m. Colonial Tea Party in the Murray Farm House. For details call 732-842-5966.

17th annual Fishing Flea Market & Fishing Collectible Show, G. Harold Antrim Elementary School, 401 Niblick St., Point Pleasant Beach from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. New & used merchandise, refreshments for sale. Sponsored by Ocean Fire Co. No. 1. Information: 732-714-8308

Robert J. Novins Planetarium, Ocean County College, College Drive, off Hooper Ave., Toms River. The Stars from my Backyard, 11:30 am; Wonders of the Winter Sky, 1:00 pm; and Bad Astronomy: Myths & Misconceptions, 2:30 pm. $ Information: 732-255-0343 or www.ocean.edu/campus/planetarium

LOOKING AHEAD

3-7-12
FREE Concert by the United State Air Force Bay State Winds at the Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free but tickets are required. Tickets can be obtained through the Box Office, on line or by telephone. For details call 732-842-9000 or to go www.countbasietheatre.org