Shore provides a better experience for children with Autism & more Atlantic County news

Shore celebrates providing a better patient experience for children with Autism

SOMERS POINT – April marked Autism Acceptance Month and the one-year anniversary of Shore Medical Center’s Sensory Friendly Program at its Pediatric Care Center, an emergency room and inpatient unit just for children. Shore developed the program in partnership with the Atlantic County Special Services School District to help children on the autism spectrum receive the best care possible when they come to the hospital. The program has been a great success.

Going to the hospital can be a nerve-wracking experience for anyone, but for children on the spectrum, the sights, sounds and feelings can be especially overwhelming because of how they process the world around them. Coupled with the pain or discomfort they may be experiencing due to their medical emergency, it can be a traumatizing time for the child and family and the staff providing care. Shore needed to educate its team about the unique needs of children on the spectrum, while also creating an environment that helped them become calm enough to get care safely.

The sensory-friendly program at Shore was made possible thanks to training and guidance from autism experts at Atlantic County Special Services School District and through a generous donation from an anonymous family.

Shore converted one of its pediatric patient rooms into a sensory-friendly room with their support. It features a colorful remote-controlled bubble wall, projector, tactile wall, weighted blankets, communication devices, and a closet full of sensory toys for children to choose from to help calm and distract them. 

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Atlantic County Special Services School provides ongoing training so that all of Shore’s staff in the Pediatric Care Center are fully educated on how to best help children on the spectrum.

Misti Martin, RN, has been a nurse in the Pediatric Care Center for six months, after spending the first two and one-half years of her Shore career in the adult emergency. She is proud to work at Shore, where she has the tools needed to care for children with autism as best she can.

“Even with all the training in the world, nurses typically aren’t kept up-to-date with how to care for someone on the autism spectrum properly,” Martin said. “Shore’s sensory-friendly program and training have helped take away many unknowns. This is new territory for some of us; we don’t care for patients with autism on a daily basis. With these children, you have to think completely outside of the box. Having that out-of-the-box equipment and resources to help you is very beneficial.”

Martin said one of the best parts of this experience has been seeing the children and parents light up when they realize Shore has all the tools to help their child get care safely. 

“At first, a child will come in and tense up, but then we escort them to the sensory room and show them what we have, and it’s like a lightbulb goes off. You start pulling out all of these familiar sensory tools, and the parents are so relieved, like, ‘Oh my goodness, you get us!’ It’s been a beautiful and very rewarding change,” Martin said.

One of the features Martin is especially excited about is the communication iPad. It contains an app that staff can use to communicate with nonverbal children. About 25 to 30 percent of children with autism are nonverbal, but many learn to communicate through pictures. Staff can use both printed picture books and the iPad app, which was programmed by Atlantic County Special Services School speech therapists, with plans for the team at Shore to program it with words and actions they will need in the future. To view a video of Martin showing how the iPad app works, visit https://youtu.be/C7SXgUkHRlU.

“When a child can express how they feel, or what they need, or when we can communicate with them in a way they are used to, as they do in school, they get excited. Now they can tell us, ‘Hey, I want this!’ You can see the excitement when they’re pointing to the pictures because they know what you’re asking them, and they have a way to respond.”

Martin wants all parents of children with autism to know about the sensory-friendly program and how committed she and all her colleagues are to providing the best care that they can.

“We’re here to help in any way possible. We have a lot of tools that we can use, and we will do anything to make your child more comfortable and able to get the care they need.”

For information, visit shoremedicalcenter.org.

Eagle Theatre presents Annie Baker’s Circle Mirror Transformation

HAMMONTON – Eagle Theatre will present “Circle Mirror Transformation,” a powerful and insightful early work by Pulitzer Prize winner Annie Baker, from May 12 to 29. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday.

In this show, each of the five individuals who have come together to attend a theater class at the community center in small-town Vermont has their unique reasons for doing so. But during six weeks of theatrical “exercises,” each of them will leave with the one thing they never expected: the chance to reimagine who they might be able to be. This witty and insightful play doesn’t just explore why art is important to our lives. It proves it, right before your very eyes, one transformation at a time.

Guest director Tai Verley, a theatre artist based out of Philadelphia, says that “Circle Mirror Transformation” is a “gift of a play” that explores concepts of empathy and connectivity she is always trying to engage with in her work as both an actor and director.

Tickets are $35, except the May 12 preview performance is “pay what you choose.”

The theater is at 208 Vine St.

For tickets or information, call (609) 704-5012 or visit eagletheatre.org. 

South Jersey municipalities invited to apply for Atlantic City Electric Sustainable Communities Grants

MAYS LANDING – Atlantic City Electric is offering grants to local municipalities for projects focusing on open space preservation, improvements to parks and recreation resources and environmental conservation. The company’s Sustainable Communities Grant Program, which was launched in 2020 and is facilitated by Sustainable Jersey, provides $75,000 in grants annually to fund open space and environmental projects and resiliency projects across South Jersey. The grant application is open through June 30. 

The program provides $50,000 in grants of up to $5,000 each for projects focusing on open space preservation, improvements to parks and recreation resources and environmental conservation. Projects include the development of recreation trails, the purchase of open space and the planting of trees and other vegetation. The program also provides $25,000 in grants of up to $10,000 each to support resiliency projects that demonstrate innovation in providing a safe and reliable resource for a community during a time of emergency.

“We are proud of our collaboration with Sustainable Jersey and the impact the Sustainable Communities Grant Program provides to South Jersey,” said Doug Mokoid, ACE region president. “Last year our program supported 13 projects, including the purchase of a utility terrain vehicle for first responders in Elsinboro Township, the installation of a non-verbal communications board at a Pittsgrove Township park, and multiple redevelopment projects at local parks and trails throughout the region. We are eager to see the opportunities this program will bring in 2022.” 

"As we experience the devastating effects of extreme weather and a changing climate on New Jersey communities, providing these grants will encourage municipalities to complete environmental stewardship and resiliency projects to help us meet future challenges," said Randall Solomon, executive director of Sustainable Jersey. "We value our partnership with Atlantic City Electric on this important initiative."

Municipalities in the ACE service area can apply for a Sustainable Communities grant each year. A committee with representatives from ACE and Sustainable Jersey reviews each application and selects the projects to receive funding. 

For information, visit atlanticcityelectric.com/SustainableCommunities. 

Shore Physician Group’s ‘Be Well Connected’ returns

SOMERS POINT – Shore Physicians Group recently announced its “Be Well Connected” in-person health education series will return this spring.

“Empowering Women through Compassionate Gynecological Care,” a free, women-only event, will be held at 10 a.m. May 12 at Josie Kelly’s Public House.

Topics covered will include menopause, gynecological care after child-bearing years, sexual health topics and more.

Guests will hear from Shore Physicians Group OB/GYN providers Joanna McGrath and Maggie Stanley and Dr. Alex Buford, a primary care physician who specializes in women’s health.

Radio host Jennifer Scott of KOOL 98.3FM will emcee the event, which features an Irish continental breakfast with scones, bagels and cream cheese, fruit juice, coffee and more.

This interactive discussion will include time for questions and answers.

For reservations, call Jessica Giles at (609) 653-3986. 

Auxiliary of Shore Medical Center Presents Hospital with $215,000 donation

SOMERS POINT – At an afternoon reception on April 27, the Auxiliary of Shore Medical Center presented hospital leadership with a check for $215,000, representing the 2021 collective proceeds from its fundraising events, gift shop and thrift shops. The Auxiliary is Shore Medical Center’s original fundraising organization and has contributed more than $16-million to support patient care initiatives and expansions during its 82-year history.

The ceremony began with a flag salute led by Fred Banner, chief information officer for Shore, followed by Brenda Martello, president of the Auxiliary, offering a moment of silence for the Auxilians and volunteers who passed away or stepped down for medical reasons. She then thanked violinist Mary Winkler for sharing her talent during the reception.

Martello then presented service pins to Auxilians who have been volunteering for 5 to 45 years.

Those in attendance to receive their pins were:

• Calla Waldron-Buck, 10 years.
• Joanne Budnick, Patricia Staub and Gerri Yollin, 15 years.
• Joanne Sankey and Gerri Medica, 25 years.
• Millie Traa, 35 years.
• Mary Ann Barile, 45 years.

As the Auxilian with the most years of service, Barile received special recognition from Board Chairman David Beyel. He shared the many Auxiliary leadership roles Barile has held and awards she's received, including the League Chapter Chairman Award in 1993, the Board of Trustees Chairman Award in 1999 and the New Jersey Hospital Association Catalyst Award in 1999.

Martello concluded the ceremony with the check presentation to Shore Senior Leadership and Board of Directors, stating, “2021 was yet another year of many challenges for everyone, and the Auxiliary was no exception. Although we held some of our annual events, we were still confined by COVID. However, in our 82nd year of supporting Shore Medical Center, the Auxiliary has once again rallied and is engaged in supporting our hospital, our patients, and our community.”

The Auxiliary is always looking for new members and volunteers to help run its gift shop, thrift shops and fundraising events.

For information, call (609) 653-4646 or visit www.shoremedicalcenter.org/Auxiliary. 

Yes, there is candy sushi!

MAYS LANDING – The Mays Landing branch of the Atlantic County Library System held a Teen Candy Sushi event on April 26.

A large group of teens gathered to have fun while learning how to assemble and layer their own sushi, made entirely from candy. A wide variety of styles were made, and all agreed that it tasted great.

The library is at 40 Farragut Ave.

For information on upcoming programs, call (609) 625-2776, ext. 6304, or visit atlanticlibrary.org.

Bob Protesto is Shore Medical Center’s April Guardian Angel

SOMERS POINT – Shore Medical Center recognized Bob Protesto of Somers Point, a registered nurse, as its April Guardian Angel for providing passionate and exceptional care to its patients. Shore established the Guardian Angel program to enable community members to say “thank you” to a special Shore caregiver through a donation to the medical center in their honor.

Kelly Duma, nurse manager of the 5 Hayes Unit, said, “Bob has been a devoted member of our team for more than two decades. His calm demeanor and clinical expertise is second to none. He is the true definition of a team player. Fellow staff members know that when Bob is working, the shift will be great.”

A grateful patient said of Protesto, “Robert provided me great care and was so attentive to my needs.  He was so pleasant, caring and efficient, which made me feel as though I was his only patient.”

Duma said Protesto consistently receives compliments and kudos from patients he cares for.

“He treats every patient with the utmost respect and courtesy. His kind spirit and true ability to listen separates him from others,” said Duma. “Patients regularly come to the unit and request Bob to be their nurse.”

Atlantic City Ballet to present ‘Cinderella’

The Atlantic City Ballet’s spring season concludes when the ballet presents “Cinderella” at 7 p.m. May 21.

The performance will delight audiences with Artistic Director Phyllis Papa’s captivating choreography and the magnificent costumes. Complete with a fairy Godmother, a handsome prince and a pair of unforgettable stepsisters, this production is a delight for all ages.

Tickets are $45 for ages 18 to 64, $20 for ages 17 and younger and $15 for Atlantic City residents; a 15 percent discount is available for ages 65 and older.

All of the performances will be presented at the Circus Maximus Theater in Caesars Hotel in Atlantic City.

For tickets or information, call (609) 348-7201 or visit www.acballet.org. 

Stockton gets $500,000 grant for coastal zone management research, education

GALLOWAY – Stockton University will receive $500,000 from the federal government to support its coastal resiliency and management programs and provide STEM educational and career opportunities for middle- and high-school students in South Jersey.

The Coastal Resiliency Equipment, Education and Outreach funds were approved as part of the FY22 federal budget and were among a list of New Jersey Community Projects supported by New Jersey Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker.

“These projects will…. make the critical investments so that New Jersey continues to be one of the greatest places to live and work,” Sen. Menendez said in a press release announcing the grants.

The grant will be administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Stockton will use the funds for several projects:

• Purchase scientific instruments for remote sensing of southern New Jersey’s coastal environment and mapping of the coastal islands, and provide high-level student training for Stockton’s Master of Science in Coastal Zone Management program.
• Provide STEM field experiences for middle- and high-school students in Atlantic City and surrounding underserved communities, offering a vital introduction to employment and higher education opportunities regarding the U.S.’s growing blue economy.
• Develop a pipeline to underserved kindergarten to 12th grade youth to higher education and STEM careers by supporting training for blue economy professions linked to offshore wind development, climate change adaptation and ocean sustainability for tourism, fisheries, recreation, commerce and environmental protection.
• Support training and education in coastal resilience that will inform municipal planning and community outreach along New Jersey’s coasts that are threatened by global climate change and rising sea levels.

“Coastal zone management, tourism, and the developing blue economy are important issues in New Jersey,” said Peter Straub, Stockton Dean of the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. “We are losing our coast. These funds will help Stockton do critical research, plus educate and train residents for careers in the industry.”

Stockton Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Leamor Kahanov said the university has been proactive in developing research and academic programs that address the climate issues facing New Jersey.

“This grant helps ensure we are providing students and the public with state-of-the-art equipment and information to do this important work,” she said.

American Red Cross announces area blood drives

The American Red Cross Penn-Jersey Blood Services Region has issued an appeal for blood donors. All blood types are needed, but especially O positive, O negative, B negative and A negative in order to meet patient demand and prevent a blood shortage.

The following blood drives are scheduled in Atlantic County:

• 3 to 8 p.m. May 13, Jersey Shore Baptist Church, 216 S. Wrangleboro Road, Galloway.
• 2 to 7 p.m. May 16, Central United Methodist Church, 5 Marvin Ave., Linwood.
• 2 to 7 p.m. May 16, Harvey D. Johnson American Legion Post 295, 232 W. Mill Road, Northfield.
• 3:15 to 8:15 p.m. May 17, Charles L. Spragg Elementary School, 601 Buffalo Ave., Egg Harbor City.
• 2 to 7 p.m. May 18, VFW Post 2189, 500 Bethel Road, Somers Point.
• 2 to 7 p.m. May 19, Presbyterian Church, 6001 Main St., Mays Landing.
• 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. May 19, Atlantic Christian School, 391 Zion Road, Egg Harbor Township.

To make an appointment, call (800) GIVE-LIFE or visit www.redcrossblood.org. 

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