Ocean County Chapter of the National Organization for Women open meeting

An official from the Family Planning Centers of Ocean County will be the featured speaker at the Sept. 19 open meeting of Ocean County Chapter NJ0320 of the National Organization for Women.    Kathy Fisher, acting director of the FPCOC, with offices in Lakewood and Manahawkin, will discuss the problems caused by the elimination of state aid to family planning, including reduced staff and shortened hours.   The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the Hometown Dairy Meeting Room at the Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St., Toms River.   Anyone concerned about the effects of the state budget cuts, which threaten the availabilty of family planning and health screening services to women who otherwise cannot afford them, is urged to attend the discussion. Topics will include actions individuals can take to urge government officials to restore this much-needed funding.   Women and men of all ages are welcome. NOW membership is not a requirement for attendance. Preregistration at oceancountynow@gmail.com is welcome but not mandatory.   For information, contact OC NOW Vice President Helen E. Fitzsimmons at  732-341-5233.