2020-02-22 - The Berkeley Times by Jersey Shore Online

The BERKELEY Times Vol. 25 - No. 37

Pages 10-13

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Officials Renew Call For School Aid

Local Boxer Rising Up

By Chris Lundy BEACHWOOD – If you’re getting in the ring with Chris “Sandman” Thomas, make sure you’ve got your head on straight. The local up-and-coming boxer’s current record is 15-1-1. If you want to know why they call him “Sandman,” it’s because 10 of those victories were knockouts. The last two knockouts were in the first round. He won the NJ Middleweight and USBF Light Heavy titles. When asked how much of the fight is mental versus physical, he said its 60 percent mental. “You can win or lose a fight before you even get in the ring,” Thomas said. Sometimes, he’ll know all he needs to know about an opponent before the first punch is thrown. When the two boxers face off, and stare each other down before the match, he can tell just by his opponent’s eyes what kind of fight it’s going to be. If his opponent’s

−Photos by Kenny Ludwig Ch r i s “ Sand man” Thomas wins in the ring. head isn’t in the game, he can’t win. He’s been doing this a while – since before he was even a teenager. His parents were trying to find a sport to get him involved in. “I had never played a sport in my life,” he said. “I saw boxing and got bit by the bug.” Ever since he was 12, he was an amateur boxer. He went pro in his senior year of high school.

People’s perception of boxing is much different than reality, he said.

People get a lot of their ideas from movies. And (Boxer - See Page 4)

Investigation Into Teacher’s Slavery Lesson Concludes No Harm To Students

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – Did a teacher abuse student like slaves, or did social media blow things out of proportion again? That’s the question that kept people talking on Facebook and Instagram recently after a student said that an Intermediate East teacher’s lesson on slavery included kicking students and making them pick cotton.

After initial tempers flared with people blaming the teacher and the district for this, a backlash returned fire, defending the teacher. At the center of it is a slavery lesson taught by Lawrence Cuneo, who is also the mayor and a long-time member of the governing body of Pine Beach. An Instagram post by a student claimed that he had students lie down and he

February 22, 2020

kicked their shoes. Also, the lesson involved having them pick seeds and sticks out of cotton. In response, social media posts published by The Patch came from parents and former students of Cuneo’s coming to his defense. They said that his lesson was eye-opening and an inventive way to learn the lesson. Students that were (Lesson - See Page 4)

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY – As a lot of towns are fighting cuts in state funding for school districts, Berkeley officials are mounting a case for aid they never get. The issue comes up from time to time in town, but the controversial S-2 law has brought this to the forefront again. S-2 has cut millions of dollars from local towns including Toms River, Brick and Jackson. As these districts lose students, they lose funding to districts that have increasing enrollments. Councilman James Byrnes opened up a discussion about it at a recent Township Council meeting. He said Trenton has been unfair in how it doles out aid for years, and S-2 is just a small segment. In Berkeley, half their taxes go to school districts, but in some cities it’s closer to 3 percent, he said. This is because some districts are designated as Abbott districts. This stems from a lawsuit, Abbott vs. Burke, where the state courts declared that the way schools were funded was unfair. In essence, poor towns couldn’t afford a “thorough and efficient” education for their kids, which is required by law. So, state funding had to fill in the gaps. Now, there are 31 districts throughout New Jersey that qualify for such assistance. However, times change and some of those districts are not poor anymore, Berkeley officials said. For example, Hoboken has become gentrified. According to 2018 census data, the median household income is $136,402. Mayor Carmen Amato said Berkeley’s median income is $43,588. He also said that according to census data, 11 of the 31 Abbott districts had a higher average income than Berkeley. A half-joking discussion came up about why not petition to make Berkeley an Abbott district. Officials said the case had been made before, but being an Abbott district gives a connotation that it’s a bad neighborhood. Resident Fred Bekiarian came up to the microphone during the public portion of the meeting and talked about some of the research he’s done. He said the money is allocated by political strength. It appears (School - See Page 4)

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Page 2, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 3

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Page 4, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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Boxer:

Continued From Page 1 of course, there’s one movie that everyone knows. “Rocky’s a cartoon,” he said, laughing. Boxing movies like that are fun to watch, but not a very accurate representation of the sport. He is joining the elite group of hometown athletes doing well, like baseball player Todd Frazier, mixed martial artist Frankie “The Answer” Edgar or football player Tymere Berry, all of whom came up through the Toms River schools. “We were all the guys walking around high school saying ‘We’re going to be someone’ and everyone else was like ‘yeah, right,’” he said. Well, look at them now.

His roots in the community are still pretty deep. He’s lived in Beachwood since he was 8, and went to Beachwood Elementary School and Intermediate South and High School South. He’s managed and trained by Shawn Darling out of Gladiator Gym in Forked River. When he’s not there, he drives a beer truck for Shore Point Distributors out of Freehold. Since his matches have been on ESPN and Comcast Sports, he’s starting to get noticed. “I’ll be out and someone will ask to take a picture with me and I’m like ‘People know who I am?’” If his career keeps up this trajectory, then yes, people will definitely know who he is. His next fight is tentatively scheduled for April 4 at the Showboat in Atlantic City.

segment of the lesson. The news spread quickly. One radio news Continued From Page 1 segment gave one or two sentences on the in his class with the Instagram student said accusations without giving any context. that he never kicked any students, and that Some parents were unhappy with the length the kicking was made up by the student with of time that the district was taking to conduct the Instagram account. They also said that all an investigation into the allegations. participants were volunteers, and that they “The district has concluded its investigation weren’t forced to partake in the more unusual into a complaint alleging that an Intermediate East 8th-grade social studies lesson on slavery was ‘degrading’ to students,” reported Michael Kenny, a spokesperson for the district. “We have determined that it was not teacher Lawrence Cuneo’s intention to offend his students; rather, the purpose of the instruction was that this appalling but nevertheless real facet of our nation’s history more fully resonate with students. “District leaders, curriculum directors, and teachers, including Mr. Cuneo, are working together to revisit the delivery of instruction to ensure it meets the needs, and accounts for the sensitivities, of all students. The district maintains that all personnel matters remain confidential,” Kenny added. Cuneo did not return a −Photo courtesy Pine Beach request for comment as of Lawrence Cuneo press time.

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School:

Continued From Page 1 as though communities where there are more Democrats get the money from the Democrats in oﬃce in Trenton. “I don’t know how to take money out of those districts” without hurting them, he said. There is not a very strong accounting for

where that money goes, Byrnes said. There should be programs to keep kids out of gangs and off drugs. Instead, city schools are spending this money but kids are still dropping out. The governing body reiterated their support of a bill that had been written some time ago that put an equal dollar amount on each student. The state would give aid per child.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 5

Page 6, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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Howell Family Plays “Game Of Games” On TV

By Bob Vosseller HOWELL – Members of a township family were all ears when they appeared on the Feb. 11 episode of NBC’s “Ellen’s Game of Games.” The show was re-aired on Feb. 16. Linda Baker and her daughters Brittany, Alanna, Jasmine and Dominique were all contestants on the game show hosted by comic and talk show star Ellen DeGeneres. During her segment she and other contestants sported large plastic ears. An NBC representative described the Baker family as all being quite energetic. Pointing out 24-year old Brittany in particular, the representative said, “Brittany had a great time and was very entertaining playing “Say Whaaat” which was a segment of the show.” During the show, DeGeneres welcomed contestants to play the classic “You Bet Your Wife,” along with “Oh Ship,” “Danger Word” and “Say Whaaat?” “My sister (Dominque) was online looking around one night and said “wouldn’t it be fun to apply for “Ellen’s Game of Games!” so we did it and the rest is history,” Baker said. That was April of last year. Baker said that “the show films in California at the historic Warner Brothers studios” so she coincided the appearance with a special visit to the west coast. As to being a fan of the show, Baker responded strongly in the aﬃrmative. “Yes! We are absolutely obsessed with Ellen and fans of “Ellen’s Game of Games.” Baker said, “we did not get to meet her be-

fore but we did see her riding around the studio on her bicycle during the early phases of the filming.” Eventually, however, the family got to meet the game show’s host. “We got to meet her right after the taping and we got to meet “tWitch” as well,” Brittany Baker said. Baker was referring to the show’s announcer, Stephen “tWitch” Boss. Boss is an all-star judge and fan favorite of the popular Fox dance competition show “So You Think You Can Dance.” He became popular following performances on the fourth season of that show. Falling just short of making the Top 20 in Season 3, he returned the following year and earned the runner-up title. In 2010, Boss was invited back to the show for a special All-Star Season 7, where he met fellow all-star −Photos courtesy Mike Rozman/Warner Brothers/NBC dancer and his future wife, Allison Featured on an episode of NBC’s Ellen’s Game of Games are Howell family members DomiHolker. His hip-hop performance of nique Baker, left with her sisters Brittany Baker, Alanna Baker and their mom Linda Baker. “Get Outta Yo Mind,” with classiThey went for the filming in June of last cally trained contestant Alex Wong, won Bakers experienced, Brittany said, “we the Emmy for Outstanding Choreography. were very excited to see ourselves on year and the most fun part of the game was the “Say Whaaat?” segment which Brittany In the season fi nale, Ellen DeGeneres television. “We had all our family and friends gath- described as “a game very similar to telestepped in for an injured Wong to recreate the award-winning dance for a surprised ering for watch parties,” Brittany Baker phone. You see what is on the teleprompter said. She works in the medical records and you have to then tell the next person audience. “He said he was rooting for us,” Brittany department of a trauma center and said but they have to read your lips and pass the before the show aired that, “my family is message on down and the last person runs Baker said. Being on a game show has its moments going to die laughing. They will be able to off and tells Ellen the message.” “It was fun. We’ve been a fan of Ellen for of anxiety, excitement and perhaps even see how nervous we were. I can’t wait to years. She was great,” Brittany Baker said. a wave of fear and nerves. As to what the see myself.”

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 7

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY E DITORIAL Missing The Personal Touch In Stores You see them wherever you go these days! At first, they started showing up at grocery stores, then convenience stores. They popped up without notice at many of our leading fast food chains and even made it to the local branches of our library systems. They are said to make life easier, faster and we’re assured that they will not cause a decline in staff at these respective establishments. Some question the validity of that claim. So, who… or rather what is seemingly everywhere and to a small degree changing our lives? Kiosks! You can use them

to order your sandwich, pay for your gallon of milk, check out your book and order your crunch wrap breakfast meal. You don’t have to interact as much (or at all) with staff if you want to make a deposit at your bank because newer ATMs are programed with that function. That is an extension of the kiosk concept. I am not sure yet how I feel about this new technological development. While I’m clearly not opposed to new tech making my life simple, there is something about how it is being presented that just seems a bit unnerving. I guess it’s seeing the lack of cashiers in a favorite convenience store when I want

to check out my drink and see five self-checkout areas and one manned station. Our library system is rolling out more self-check out machines and it was amusing to watch young people go up to the brightly lit machines thinking they were video games or a young mom who wanted to make a copy of something believing it a copy machine. I thought it odd, months ago, when I stood a tad too long looking at a newly installed mechanical order system at a local McDonald’s and as I turned around to walk to the manned counter, have the woman behind it walk over to me and walk me through the new device and show me how

easy it was. Granted this was at a time when I was the only customer in the lobby. Another observation was at my local grocery store and watching the cashiers observe the installation of a batch of new self-check machines as if they were witnessing their replacements. Perhaps they were? It isn’t just the kiosk devices but manned staff with hand held devices that can check your small order as you stand in line. That is convenient and that still has a personal touch. Have you ever gone to a bank and approached the teller area holding your deposit slip and other paperwork only to be told, “Sir, are you aware you

can now do this at the ATM?” While it was said in pleasant manner my brain translated that into, “Sir, this is much a minor task we’d rather you not bother us with it anymore and do it yourself.” We live in a time when a few fleeting words between the shopper and cashier may become a thing of the past before long. Some of us feel an unnatural intimidation of going up to those self-check machines despite having a decent knowledge of navigating around our computers and phone devices. There is just something about those kiosks with their buttons, scanners, lights and various slots that just seem out of place, as if

they are armed with lasers and could activate them if we do the wrong thing. Perhaps if, or rather, when they start to talk (and you know that eventually they will) it won’t seem so bad. When we start to get illuminated digital facial features, we’ll forget that it’s just a machine and we’ll fool ourselves into thinking it’s the friendly cashier who we used to joke with while were standing in line. Whether you use them or not, they are now part of our life and I guess it’s all in the name of progress. Bob Vosseller Assistant Editor

Letters To The Editor

The Editor Trenton Doesn’t Realize How Letters Aid Cuts AreTo Hurting Schools Dear Governor Murphy, At this time of year, school districts throughout New Jersey are beginning to prepare budgets for the upcoming school year - which is always a formidable task as we have to balance the education of the children in our communities with the real financial concerns of our district’s taxpayers. This year, the constituents in the Freehold Regional High School District’s footprint must grapple with the serious negative impacts of Senate Bill 2 (S-2) and the long-term effects it will have on the education and opportunities available to our 10,600 current students and the thousands more who will enter the schools of the Freehold Regional High School District in coming years. S-2 has had and will continue to have a direct negative impact on the

high school students in Colts Neck, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell, Manalapan, and Marlboro and will adversely affect all the taxpayers in these communities. On the surface, the conceptual framework underlying S-2 sounded ideal - specifically a chance to redistribute school funding to help those districts that had sharp increases in enrollment while their funding remained flat. In reality, S-2 is and continues to have devastating impacts on 500,000 children across the state in order to help those districts. This bill has established a false perception of have and have nots, creating an atmosphere that pits students, parents, and communities against each other; rather than celebrating, sustaining and working to

W� W�� L�� T� T�� E��! The Berkeley Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns. All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to

edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

improve New Jersey’s recent #1 ranking for providing a stellar education to every child. We completely support our neighbor Freehold Borough and other districts receiving their fair share but submit that it must be done in a manner that does not destroy other school districts, including our own. Keep in mind, the Freehold Borough K-8 School District, which is one of the districts that had sharp increases in enrollment while their funding remained flat, sends their students to us for high school. So while those students will benefit greatly during their time in the lower district, S-2 will be dismantling the education they will receive in the Freehold Regional High School District when they enter ninth grade. We’re certain it was not the intent of those in the Legislature, to create divisive legislation that will have damaging, long-term consequences for the children of New Jersey. We doubt any elected official would support such outcomes, but unfortunately, that is exactly what is occurring. We ask that the phasing out of state aid under S-2 is extended until the magnitude of its impact is fully understood and that the phasing in of state aid to the districts who saw sharp enrollment increases continues on the current schedule established by S-2 with new revenue for state aid earmarked to those districts. Otherwise, thousands of children – many of them your youngest constituents - will be

negatively impacted in the short and long term. It is time for the funding formula to be completely redesigned through a transparent process that benefits every student in this state. The Freehold Regional High School District is an exemplary district. Our students have outstanding opportunities to explore their passions whether through participation in one of our specialized Magnet Programs, career and technical education pathways or through various clubs and sports teams. The reductions in state aid under S-2 will severely diminish educational programming for students across our region, which in turn will have negative implications for college and career success. This District has prided itself on its fiscal responsibility. As a regionalized system, our economy of scale allows us to provide a superior education for our students while spending approximately $3,500 per pupil less than similar districts. In fact, our per-pupil costs are below most of the K-8 systems in our area despite running hundreds of clubs and athletic teams. The belief that this district has somehow lived “high on the hog” for years - a sound bite and talking point often stated by supporters of S-2 - is a dangerous misrepresentation of Freehold Regional. The repeated refrain we hear is that our enrollment is declining, that we should have been downsizing accordingly all along. The answer is we did and continue

to downsize. On average our enrollment declines approximately 1.4% each year. With our enrollment being close to 10,600 students you can see how minimal that decrease is each year. With that slight decrease in students each year, we worked to eliminate positions to keep our ratio of staff to students eﬃcient. In 2010 alone, eighty-one staff positions were cut from across the district. In addition, since 2014, we have eliminated an additional thirty-six positions of faculty, staff, and administrators to match the decline of student enrollment. That’s one hundred and seventeen positions eliminated over a decade – an average of almost twelve positions a year. We cannot absorb a loss of $30 million and continue to provide the quality education our students deserve. The most frustrating part is that we now have to announce cuts to programs and services for our students, yet we cannot provide our community with an explanation of why or how the funding formula has determined that the Freehold Regional’s taxpayers are not contributing their “fair share.” It is inexcusable that the formula has not been made public, especially in light of its questionable math. According to the state’s formula, if you owned a house valued at $400,000 and earned $100,000 in 2009 you had the ability to pay $4,127 in Freehold Regional taxes. Keeping that property value and income flat, in 2020 the state’s formula says you’re able to

pay $5,396 in Freehold Regional taxes. Taxpayers deserve a clear explanation of how their “fair share” is determined. Without seeing the formula ourselves, we cannot provide them with an answer. We recognize the challenge of generating revenue to adequately fund education in New Jersey, but we implore you to work towards a solution that ensures every student in the state receives the education he or she deserves. S-2 in its current form is not that answer. Helping some students at the expense of others is the opposite of providing a fair education for all. (Visit our online petition at change.org/p/phil-murphyfunding-formula-fairness-for-allstudents) where you can read the names and opinions of more than 10,000 residents who deserve an answer as how this funding is determined. Before we begin to dismantle the educational programming with negative consequences for every child in the Freehold Regional, we respectfully ask that you reconsider your stance on S-2 in light of the severe negative consequences that it will have for thousands of children and families in New Jersey. Charles B. Sampson, Ed.D. Superintendent Carl Accettola Board President Sean Boyce Assistant Superintendent

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Page 8, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

SPOTLIGHT ON GOVERNMENT Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

Bill Would Give Guard And Reserve Members Equal Hazard Pay From The Desk Of

Congressman Andy Kim WASHINGTON, D.C. − Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03), Congressman Trent Kelly (MS-

01), Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13), Congressman Steven Palazzo (MS-04), Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (MI-08) introduced H.R. 5887, the Guard and Reserve Hazard Duty Pay Equity Act, which would create pay equity on hazard duty incentive pay for all Guard and Reserve service members. Representing tens

of thousands of service members at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, Congressman Kim has been a fierce advocate for members of the Reserves, Guard and their families. “Our service members who put themselves in harm’s way in defense of our nation deserve our full support, regardless if they’re active duty, or a member of the Reserves or National Guard,” said Congressman Kim. “For these members of the Reserves and Guard, including those serving at our Joint Base, this pay is important; it puts food on the table and pays bills. I’m proud to work this great bipartisan group to introduce this bill and look forward to getting this done for our men and women in uniform.” Currently, Guard and Reserve Service Members are awarded 1/30th hazard-duty incentive pay of their active duty counterparts. In context, a Private First Class, E-3, with two years of service who is jump qualified, makes $272 a drill period. The service member is required to maintain the same parachuting jumping requirements as his active duty counterpart, however, is only entitled to $12 versus $150 additional monthly compensation for the same level of risk. Members of our National Guard and Reserve play a vital role in protecting the nation and their communities. Since 2001, utilization rates for members of our Reserve Forces have skyrocketed twenty-two fold; from less than half a percent (0.41%) from 1994-2000 to over 9% of the total reserve forces (9.3%) 2001- present. As part of their service, qualified soldiers are entitled to hazard-duty incentive pay for activities including but not limited to parachute jumping and the demolition of explosives. The Guard and Reserve Hazard Duty Pay Equity Act has been endorsed by a number of organizations representing service members

including the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS), Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), Reserve Officers Association (ROA) and Military Oﬃcers Association of America (MOAA). “I totally support the Guard and Reserve Hazard Duty Pay Equity Act,” said LTC McKinley Williams, USA (Retired), 1st Vice President, ROA Department of New Jersey, ROA dba Reserve Organization of America. “Having retired from the Army Reserve with 31 years of service, I have seen the transition of the Guard and Reserve from a strategic to an operational force. The transition has placed the expectation and necessity for the Guard and Reserve to be trained and ready to deploy on short notice. Given hazardous duty in of itself does not distinguish between an Active Duty, Guard or Reserve Component members, I believe there should not be a distinction in hazard pay among Component members. Additionally, equal HDIP for all three components would truly be an incentive to fill vacant airborne positions in the Guard and Reserve, where airborne assignments are more voluntary that the Active Duty Component.” Last year, Congressman Kim worked to pass the bipartisan Patriotic Employer Protection Act, which would strengthen programs intended to protect small business owners whose employees are military Reservists deployed on active duty. The Congressman also served as a conferee to the bicameral conference committee on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2020, where he fought for a 3.1 percent increase in military pay for all military service members and increased access to job training and licensing for military spouses.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 9

Teacher Charged With Endangering Child

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY – A teacher and former political candidate was arrested and charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Lewdness, police said. Joshua Eckersley, 33, of Berkeley Township is accused of performing a lewd act in the presence of a minor on school property on Jan. 12. He was employed as a math teacher at Central Regional Middle School. The minor told authorities, which opened up an investigation by the district and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Oﬃce Special Victims Unit. Eckersley was surrendered by his attorney on Feb. 13. He was processed and released pending a future court date. “I’d like to commend the Central Regional Board of Education and Dr. Triantafillos Parlapanides, Superintendent, for their patience and cooperation in our criminal investigation of Mr. Eckersley,” Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said. A Facebook page that prides itself on uncovering corruption challenged Central Regional, stating they were hiding things. Parlapanides answered that he had to wait until the investigation ran its course and published his contact information for anyone who had questions. This same Facebook page also identified an alleged victim, which is illegal. “The Central Regional School District has been made aware that one of our teaching staff members, Josh Eckersley, was arrested on allegations of unprofessional conduct. We are very troubled by this incident and have been fully cooperating with law enforcement and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Oﬃce in their investigation. Please understand that

First Aid Squad Fundraiser Dinner

BERKELEY – The Holiday City First Aid Squad will hold a fish /chicken and dinner on Fat Tuesday, February 25 at the Holiday City West Clubhouse at 45 Cabrillo Blvd. Dinner will be served between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. The cost is $20 per person and includes fish or chicken, chips, coleslaw, dessert, coffee/tea, water and soda. For more information or tickets call Claire Konig at 732-281-8873 or her cell # 908-5739462

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we cannot provide information that would interfere with the ongoing investigation and the legal process,” Parlapanides said in a statement. “The safety and security of our students is our utmost priority. In that respect, Mr. Eckersley has not been and will not be on school grounds or in any of our buildings until this matter is concluded. We have made support services available for any

of our students that may need assistance.” Eckersley ran unsuccessfully for Berkeley Township Council last year. During the campaign, he told this newspaper that he was serving as an “executive oﬃcer within the Central Regional Education Association as the Association secretary, and in elected positions with the New Jersey Education Association as a Delegate Assembly member,

and in the National Education Association as a Resolutions Committee member serving over 3 million educators nationwide.” He did not return an attempt to contact him regarding this matter. The prosecutor’s oﬃce reminded readers that all defendants are innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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Page 10, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

CRHS Seniors Of The Month

−Photo courtesy Central Regional School District Pictured are Central Regional’s Seniors of the Month. Andrew Lynch and Sydney Vorsteg. BERKELEY – Sydney Vorsteg and Andrew Lynch are the latest Seniors of the Month at CRHS. Sydney Vorsteg’s impressive resume is a result of her diligence and ability to handle the pressures that come with a rigorous academic schedule, extracurricular activities, and outside work commitments. She achieved high honor roll while enrolled in the Humanities Academy. She earned induction into the Honor Societies for English, Math, Science, and History. She was also a member of the National Honor Society for her outstanding marks and involvement in school and community. She was a recipient of the Academic Letter and recognized for the highest GPA in Economics during the annual Academic Spectacular. As a member of the volleyball, Sydney received the Student Athlete Award every season of play and awarded the Scholar Athlete Plaque for maintaining the highest GPA on the team. Her personable nature and strong communication skills were evident in her volunteer and work efforts. She tutored Spanish to help other peers who struggled. She volunteered at the St. Pius Vacation Bible School, where she led younger children in various activities. She has been employed at the Sand Castle Diner as a waitress since 2016 serving, bringing food and smiles to customers. She also completed various volunteer activities with the Key Club.

Next year, Sydney will be attending Stockton University. She accepted early into the prestigious Nursing Program. She intends to continue helping others as a nurse in the future. Andrew Lynch is well-rounded and driven. He effectively manages his time in meeting responsibilities and overcoming challenges. Throughout his high school career, his outstanding GPA resulted in High Honor Roll recognition. He achieved a 1290 on the SAT, and he scored a four on the AP English Language and Composition Exam. He earned college credits with GCU through the Humanities Program. He has received an Academic Letter since ninth grade. He was inducted into the National Honor Society, as a result of consistent academic achievement and contributions to school and community. Andrew demonstrates strong leadership qualities and communication skills. He was the Section Leader for CRHS Marching Eagles. He was a member of the CRHS Men’s Chorus and Select Chamber. He was a lawyer for the Mock Trial Team. He also participated in the Drama Club. Andrew served as a counselor at the Bold Adventures Day Camp. He taught young campers how to paddle board, kayak, and play chess. He worked as a Technology Helper at BTES last summer. Andrew intends to take advantage of the STARS Program through OCC next year.

Church To Host Annual Dinner

BAYVILLE – St. Barnabas Rosary Altar Society is hosting their Annual Fish or Chicken & Chips Dinner, March 21 at 5:30 p.m. This dinner will be held in Fr. Brennan Hall, located adjacent to St. Barnabas Church, 33 Woodland Road, Bayville.

The cost is $20 for adults and $8 for children (under 10 years of age). There will be gift baskets and 50/50 raﬄes. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Flo Morbelli at 732-269-1449. No tickets will be sold at the door.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 11

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

Governor Joins Commissioners For Discussion

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−Photo courtesy Ocean County Prosecutors Oﬃce BAYVILLE – Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer joined New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen Amato, department commissioners and various other healthcare professionals for a roundtable discussion on combating the opioid epidemic at Ocean Mental Health in Bayville. The Governor emphasized the importance

of increasing prevention and treatment programs and supporting individuals on their path to recovery. Governor Murphy also announced the relaunch of Reach NJ, a public service initiative managed by the Department of Human Services, to encourage people to seek help for addiction. Visit reachnj.gov for more information about the initiative.

Night Of The Stars

BEACH WOOD – Spend the night under the stars with The Astronomical Society of the Toms River Area on February 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Nature Center, Jakes Branch County Park 1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood. Whether you are a budding astronomer or simply a casual a stargazer, this night is

for you. Volunteer members of the club will be on-site to share their out-of-this-world knowledge and answer your questions about the great unknown. If you have your own telescope, feel free to bring it. The club members will be happy to give you pointers on how to fi nd the planets and locate constellations.

Clubhouse Presents Celebrity Impersonator

BERKELEY – The Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse recreation committee presents “Neil Diamond” Bob Mc Arthur celebrity impersonator on March 14 at 7 p.m. Ticket price is $15 per person with no

refunds. Ticket sales are Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event is BYOB and snacks, coffee, tea and dessert will be provided. For more information, call Paula at 732736-1501 or Barbara at 732-240-7627.

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Page 12, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

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V.F.W. Post 10185 Hosts Meeting

BERKELEY – The next meeting of Silver/ Holiday V.F.W. Post 10185 will be held on March 5 at 1 p.m. at the Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse, 145 Westbrook Drive, Silver Ridge Park West. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month. To join the post, just bring a copy of your Discharge (DD-214) to the meeting and you will be signed up right away. You’ll received a hardy welcome and refreshments before the meeting. You will also have a chance to talk with fellow Veterans and make new friends. Additionally, V.F.W. Post 10185’s Oﬃcers will attend V.F.W. District 12’s meeting at

V.F.W. Post 4715, Pt. Pleasant on March 24 at 7 p.m. where the latest V.F.W. Programs and events will be discussed. VFW Post 10185 would also like you to drop your old and faded flags off at either Holiday City South Clubhouse (Main Building), Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse, Silver Ridge Park North Clubhouse and Holiday City Berkeley Club House 1. Please remove the sticks from the small flags first and the flags will be disposed of properly. If you need a ride to the meeting or want more information without any obligation, call Past Commander James Egan at 732341-4905.

Chamber Concert, Cooking And Black History Month Events

BERKELEY – The Ocean County Library Berkeley Branch brims with special free activities for all ages in February, including culinary arts, chamber music, and Black History Month commemorations. Kids Cook, 6:30 p.m. February 24. Learn to make tasty treats. Ages 8 -12. Contact the branch for any allergy concerns. Space Storytime and Craft, 10:30 a.m.

February 27. Hear the adventures of African Americans in the US space program, then do a craft. Age 2 and up. The branch is located at 30 Station Road, Bayville. Registration, except where otherwise noted, is required for these free events events. To register, call 732-269-2144, or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

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TOMS RIVER – The Silver Bay Elementary School PTO is hosting a community bake sale fundraiser on February 25 from 4 to 7:30 p.m. It will be held in the gymnasium at Silver Bay Elementary school, 100 Silver Bay Road. This event will be open to the public. On February 7, a devastating fi re tore

through the Trahey family home in Silverton destroying it and taking the life of Sara Trahey. Two of her three children are students at Silver Bay Elementary school. Sara herself was a PTO member who often volunteered her time at PTO events. All proceeds from this bake sale will go directly to the Trahey family.

Discovery Nature Walks

BEACHWOOD – Join a park naturalist on these brief but informative nature walks through Jakes Branch Park. Weather permitting. Walks will not exceed 30 minutes.

Walks will take place on Sunday’s through March 29 at 1:30 p.m. 1100 Double Trouble Rd Beachwood. All ages welcome.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 13

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

First Responders Rescue Choking Man

By Alyssa Riccardi PINE BEACH – Within just four minutes, first responders arrived at the home of an elderly man who was unresponsive, and saved his life. Police said they received a 911 call that an 85-year-old man was choking. The police, fire and medical services immediately acted on the call and arrived at the residence in just four minutes. When responders arrive at the home, they found the man lying on his kitchen floor unresponsive. The team preformed the

Heimlich maneuver, but failed to help as the man’s throat was still blocked. With the man still having a pulse, the team urgently sent him in an ambulance to Community Medical Center. There, EMTs were successful at bringing him back to consciousness and normal breathing. The man is currently in secure condition at Community Medical Center. “With the quick response and efforts of the highly cross trained personnel on scene this resident’s life was fortunately saved,” said Beachwood EMS Captain James Horn.

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Library Gets Jazzy For Black History Month LACEY – The Ocean County Library Lacey Branch will celebrate Black History Month by hosting “An Evening of Jazz and Blues: The Swamp Boogie Five Concert,” at 6:30 p.m. on February 25. The band adds a Louisiana-f lavored t wist to the songs in its reper toire.

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Page 14, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Fact vs Myth: What You Need To Know About Flu Shots

By Kimberly Bosco OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Health Department wants to help residents understand facts vs. myths when it comes to the seasonal flu and flu vaccines. “People should do their homework when it comes to their families’ health and safety. And when it comes to the flu it’s understandable that individuals have so many questions when it comes to the facts,” said Ocean County Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “Trust the health experts. They can decipher the facts from myths and help understand what the best course is for you.” Every year, OCHD oﬃcials are asked these three common questions: • Can a flu vaccine give you the flu? • Does the flu vaccine cover all strains of flu? • Do I need a flu shot every year? To the first question, health experts say no; the flu vaccine cannot cause flu illness. Flu vaccines administered with a needle are currently made in two ways: with the ‘inactivated’ (killed) virus, which is not infectious, or with only a single gene from a flu virus (as opposed to the full virus) in order to produce an immune response without causing infection. According to OCHD oﬃcials, some people report feeling sick after getting their flu vaccine, despite these facts. This can be due to: • Some people can become ill from other respiratory viruses besides flu such as rhinoviruses, which are associated with the common cold, cause

symptoms similar to flu, and also spread and cause illness during the flu season. • It is possible to be exposed to influenza viruses, which cause the flu, shortly before getting vaccinated or during the two-week period after vaccination that it takes the body to develop immune protection. This exposure may result in a person becoming ill with flu before protection from the vaccine takes effect. Some may have been exposed to a flu virus that is unique from the viruses the vaccine is designed to protect against. There are many different flu viruses that spread and cause illness among people but are not included for protection in the current vaccines. • And, the flu vaccine can vary in how well it works and some people who get vaccinated may still get sick. Another common question OCHD hears each year is this: Do I need the flu shot every year? The answer is yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot annually because a person’s immune protection from vaccines wears down over time. “The bottom line is that flu vaccines can and do save lives,” said Daniel Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator. “It’s important to speak with your health care provider if you need more information and facts regarding any vaccines. Remember, the internet doesn’t always have the best information that would pertain specifically to you or your family.” For more information about the flu or for a clinic schedule, visit the OCHD website at ochd.org.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 15

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Page 16, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH •

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Dizziness is the third most common complaint to doctors, exceeded only by headaches and lower back pain. The National Institute of Health and Johns Hopkins’s statistics indicate that dizziness is the number one complaint of patients over age 70. More importantly, dizziness and vertigo can affect people throughout a lifetime and this is clearly represented by the fact that dizziness is the third most commonly reported complaint to physicians. Dizzy patients often report that they have made several visits to physicians and were told that nothing could be done or that they would simply have to learn to live with their dizziness complaint. If you are experiencing a sensation of vertigo or spinning or unsteadiness when you are walking, I suggest you do the following: Schedule an appointment with an audiologist to have your hearing thoroughly

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evaluated since your hearing and balance mechanisms are closely related. Specialized testing should be performed to evaluate your inner ear mechanism. Tests may include ENG, electrocochleography and/or computerized dynamic posturography evaluation. Specialized diagnostic testing can often pinpoint abnormalities in your vestibular system (inner ear), visual system and/or proprioceptive system (muscular skeletal). Quite often, vestibular rehabilitation or balance retraining therapy can either eliminate and/or signifi cantly improve the complaint of dizziness and/or balance dysfunction. If you or if you know of someone who is suffering from dizziness and/or balance dysfunction, I suggest that you make an appointment for a thorough diagnostic evaluation.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 17

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Natural Strategies For Uterine Fibroids By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Uterine fibroids are benign cysts that can grow inside or outside of a woman’s womb, termed the uterus. There are many articles that address a pre-menopausal woman’s risk of fibroids, but not as many for post-menopausal women. Hysterectomy does not have to be your future! Living with the bloat doesn’t have to be your future either! Most women can live their whole life with little fibroids and not experience any problems, and maybe not even realize they even have them! But fibroids can grow rapidly and cause a lot of lower pelvic pain, even radiating into the groin or leg. When large enough, the abdomen will swell or bloat causing you to want to wear stretchy pants, and possibly have to empty your bladder more frequently. Constipation is pretty common with fibroids. In some cases, if the fibroid is large enough, it may actually cause tremendous discomfort and diﬃculty walking, sleeping or bending. In an older woman, I think it’s the pain that drives a woman into the OB/ GYN oﬃce, to find out what’s going on. Contrarily, a woman who is younger and still cycling may have symptoms such as heavy bleeding, subsequent anemia, fatigue, infertility and of course pain, including dysorgasmia. I’d like to offer you some natural strategies to help you try to shrink these, because so often the first thing offered is surgery! While that may be necessary in some cases, I’m a holistic thinking pharmacist and I believe there are life-changing natural strategies that are worth a try! Talk to your physician about the following ideas. In the

order of importance: 1. Discontinue ALL hormones that you’re taking. Many post-menopausal women are supported on hormones which may be fueling the fibroid growth in an older woman. It’s the estrogen (estradiol) that could be the specific problem. 2. Sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a dietary supplement that is basically a broccoli extract. It is used to support Phase II liver detoxification enzymes which break down estrogen properly. Sulforaphane supplements help to restore proper estrogen receptor gene expression, and interfere with tumor growth. DIM is another supplement that may help control estrogen. 3. Iodine. We assume iodine deficiency as one reason for hypothyroidism, but iodine deficiency is also strongly associated with lumpy breasts (ie fibrocystic breasts) as well as uterine fibroids. Iodine may be useful in preventing further growth of a fibroid. 4. Turmeric. Turmeric spice has been studied for its ability to shrink uterine fibroids, by binding to and activating PPAR-gamma and that in turn, shrinks a fibroid tumor/ growth. Curcumin is a stronger, standardized extract of turmeric spice. 5. Matcha Tea or EGCG Supplements. In test tube and animal studies, cells treated with EGCG grew far more slowly and were noticeably smaller within days! I have a longer version of this article with more natural strategies. I will email it to you once you’ve signed up for free my online newsletter at suzycohen.com. That article includes a recipe for an essential oil blend that you can apply externally for additional comfort.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2019 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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BEFORE THERE WAS LASIK

“Photorefractive keratectomy” (PRK) was the first type of laser eye surgery for the correction of refractive errors. Although it is the predecessor to the more widely used LASIK procedure, PRK remains a viable option and provides some advantages over LASIK for some patients. For instance, such factors as corneal thickness (or thinness), corneal curvature, and corneal scarring may all play a role in the recommendation of PRK over LASIK. While both procedures use an excimer laser to correct vision, LASIK involves creating a corneal “ﬂap,” under which the excimer laser is applied. PRK uses the excimer laser to directly remove epithelial (outer corneal) tissue without a ﬂap. So, while PRK may take longer to heal than LASIK, it removes less corneal tissue. As with any other surgery, it’s very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions to help ensure optimum results. You will need to attend frequent follow-up appointments with your doctor over the next several weeks to monitor the healing process. To schedule an appointment, please call SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622.

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www.oceancountyeye.com P.S. During the healing process, PRK patients wear a contact lens bandage for approximately four to five days, as the epithelial tissue undergoes the initial healing phase and seals the surface.

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Page 18, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Nominations Are Open For The CHLP Awards

SOUTH ORANGE – The Community Health Law Project (CHLP) is currently accepting nominations for the 2020 Ann Klein Advocate Awards and Mike Lione Accessibility Award being held on October 22 at The Wilshire Grand Hotel in West Orange. In its 33rd year, the prestigious Ann Klein Advocate Award is given to a group of select individuals and organizations, nominated by the public, who have performed exemplary work as advocates for people living with disabilities and/or vulnerable populations. The award is named in memory of Ann Klein, former Commissioner of the NJ Department of Human Services, whose career as a public servant, legislator and social worker paved the way for significant advances in the human services systems throughout the State

of New Jersey. 2019’s recipients included Phillip Lubitz, MSW, Associate Director, NAMI New Jersey, The National Alliance on Mental Illness; The Miracle Project, Mayo Performing Arts Center; Gina M. Plotino, Vice President, Programs and Operations, Bergen County’s United Way, President, GMP Consulting, Inc.; Rabbi Dr. Francine Reibman, Co-founder and Co-chair Children’s Emergency Medical Fund of New Jersey; Peter Scerbo, Executive Director, (Retired) CBHCare, Inc. The Mike Lione Accessibility Award was established in 2013 in memory of long time Community Health Law Project board member and former chair Mike Lione. This award is presented to an individual or entity that has performed exemplary work as an advocate for accessibility on behalf of persons living with disabilities. The 2019 recipient is Michael R. Dribbon, PhD, Vice President of Business Development and Chief Innovation and Research Oﬃcer, Children’s Specialized Hospital and Center for Discovery, Innovation and Development. In its 43rd year as a statewide nonprofit advocacy and legal services organization, the CHLP has provided services to tens of thousands of individuals throughout the state. Each year, the CHLP helps nearly 5,000 NJ residents with disabilities through brief service and representation. The Community Health Law Project is proud to honor those who strive to truly make a difference. Award nomination deadline is April 17. For more information, visit chlp.org or call 973275-1175. The Community Health Law Project is a non-profit, legal aid society founded in 1976. With a dedication to serving the legal needs of persons with disabilities throughout New Jersey, CHLP provides legal and advocacy services, training, education, and related activities to persons with disabilities and, in certain issues, to organizations representing their interests, with an emphasis on those most vulnerable and needy.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 19

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Consumer Rights And Data Breach

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Protecting Yourself From Identify Theft By: Dina M. Vicari, Esq. and Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

The recent data breach by Equifax meant that sensitive personal information for 145 million Americans was potentially exposed, including Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses and, in some instances, driver’s license numbers. This incident has left many consumers wondering how they can protect themselves from identify theft. Monitor your Account Check your fi nancial account transactions regularly. Opt-in for alerts that screen for questionable transactions and opt-in for multifactor authentication. Look for charges that you don’t recognize, even if they were for small amounts. Sometimes scoundrels test the waters with small charges. Be aware of communications claiming to be from credit reporting agency or financial institution. Review Credit Reports By law, all consumers are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). You can request a free credit report from annualcreditreport. com, by phone or mail. Any site other than annualcreditreport.com is not part of the legally mandated free annual credit report program. Make sure you spell the

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annualcreditreport.com domain name correctly and avoid look-alike scam sites. Place a Freeze A credit freeze prevents new creditors from accessing your credit file and others from opening accounts in your name. A freeze could stop identity thieves because most (but not all) businesses will not open credit accounts without checking your credit report. A credit freeze does not prevent identity thieves from taking-over your existing account. Set a fraud alert! A fraud alert requires creditors who check your credit report to take steps to verify your identity before opening a new account, issuing additional card or increasing your credit limit on an existing account. A fraud alert is free. You can place an initial alert on your account for 90 days if you have not been a victim of identity theft. The litigation attorneys at the Law Oﬃces of R.C. Shea & Associates handle most consumer fraud claims on a contingency basis. A contingency means if there is no recovery, there is no fee. Call us for a free consultation: 732-505-1212.

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Seniors Alerted Of Social Security Scam

By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – A new Social Security Scam has been traveling around the area and has been targeting senior citizens. Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as Chairman to Senior Services, announced that all senior citizens should be aware of this potential scam where someone is imposing as a Social Security Administration (SSA) Employee. “With Ocean County being home to more than 173,000 seniors, it is important to make sure residents are aware of scams so that they can protect themselves,” said Vicari. “I encourage citizens to be cautious when providing information such as your Social Security number or bank information to unknown persons over the phone or the internet.” There have been multiple reports of phone calls from someone portraying as an SSA

employee. The caller will say that the victim’s cost of living has increased and will entice the victim to give personal information over the phone such as their name, date of birth, Social Security Number and parent’s names. With this information, the caller will contact the SSA and can request changes. If you attain any type of skeptical call about someone claiming to be from the SSA, you should report it to the SSA, oﬃcials said. “When handing out personal information, residents should make sure they are certain as to who is receiving the information,” Vicari said. “You must be very confident that the source is the correct business person and that your information is secure.” For more information, residents can contact the Ocean County Oﬃce of Senior Services at 732-929-2091 or the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Kind of basin 6 State secrets? 9 Intense dislike 14 Act poorly? 15 Run a tab, say 16 Words between two “thanks” 17 Chef protector 18 See 8-Down 19 Floorboard support 20 Many a Sundance ﬁlm 22 Rent payer 23 Registered names: Abbr. 25 Action at the front 28 H.S. hurdle 29 Adorn 32 Comical punctuation marks from the drummer 34 Marshy lowland 35 Chihuahua, por ejemplo 36 “__ Eyes”: Ea-

gles hit 37 ‘60s campus gp. 38 Hieroglyphics reptiles 41 “Do __, not ... “ 43 Work on, as a stubborn squeak 45 Tablets’ kin 48 Swingline insert 49 2,170-mi. trail terminus 50 Walk with style 52 Luau music provider 53 Wanting too much 55 Pry 58 Cookie named for its ﬂavor 59 Aromatic necklace 61 Stage performances 64 Words after miss or skip 65 Resting place 66 Down source 67 Singer Bruni married to Nicolas Sarkozy 68 Morning cuppa 69 Amounts to

Down 1 Leaves in a bag 2 Prankster 3 “Pillow Talk” actress 4 Lots 5 Provide with for a time 6 Montague lad 7 Blow away 8 With 18-Across, Southwestern cuisine 9 Museum pieces 10 Lucy and Ethel and Thelma and Louise 11 “Indeed!” 12 Oust, in a way 13 Church choral works 21 “Eww!” 22 Tibetan title 23 “Angie Tribeca” channel 24 Weak cry 26 Brand of blended seasonings 27 Itsy-__ 30 Inventor Howe 31 Population information

33 Book after Daniel 35 Ulysses threesome? 39 Web irritants ... and what appears in each set of puzzle circles? 40 __-screen printing 42 Faulkner’s “As __ Dying” 44 Actor Marvin of “Cat Ballou” 45 Courvoisier, e.g. 46 Speedy Gonzales cry 47 Kitchen gadget 48 OED entry 51 Words for the audience 54 Hebrew for “skyward” 56 Oil bloc 57 Hodgepodge 59 Pres. sworn in on Air Force One 60 Job listing ltrs. 62 “Is it soup __?” 63 Fourth-yr. students

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

VAGUE MOTTO WINNER COHORT - WATER-TIGHT

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 21

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent For Rent - Adult Community. Whiting Crestwood Vill. 5 (55+) Larger 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath and Powder Room. Porch, W/D, Garage. Not Pets. $975.00 plus utilities, Available 3/1/20. 732-604-0323. (12) For Rent Or For Sale - New 1 BR, 1 bath homes. Adult 55+ Community, Homestead Run, Toms River. www.homesteadrun.com. 732-3702300 call today. (12) Seaside Park - Beautiful, clean, and quiet oceanfront and oceanblock (yearly). 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with yard and parking from $1050. 908-278-5491. (11)

Items Wanted

Services

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/ estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

Don Carnevale Painting Specializing interiors. Some exterior. Quality always. Very neat. Prompt courteous service. Reasonable-affordable. Senior discounts. Honest-reliable. Low rates. Free estimates. 732-899-4470 or 732-915-4075. (7)

Items For Sale

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (10)

Moving Sale

Power Loveseat - With console and power rocker recliner. 1 year old. $1500.00 Call 201-390-2573 (12)

Music Lessons In Your Home By state certified teacher. Available on Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone or Drums. School students and adults welcome! Call 732-350-4427. (10)

MOVING SALE - Toms River, 1082 Westlake Drive, Saturday, February 22, 2020, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Everything must go! Furniture, home goods, kitchenware, lamps, side tables, etc. Come early to get the best deals! CASH ONLY! 201-838-9180. (10)

Whirlpool Washer/ Gas Dryer Excellent condition. Not used in last 10 years. You must up. $100 each. 732-477-1849. (10)

Pet Sitter - Dog walker, Insured and bonded. I will walk your dog and pet sit your cat. Certified in pet 1st Aid and CPR. Call or text 732-330-2889. (11)

Misc.

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (10)

Personals Single Senior Males - 65+ Wanted for single females. Soulmate, friendship or partner. Have good standards, qualities. Leave name and number for return call. 732-678-6786. (13) Italian - American Gentleman seeks woman 65-75 yrs with same interest. I am loving, caring, and easy going. Loves music and dancing. Give me a call 732-207-5338. (12)

Items Wanted Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (17) $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n) Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for Rock, Reggae, Blues, Elvis, Jazz, Metal, Psychedelic. Very Good Condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (12) Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) Buying World War I and II Helmets, hats, swords, daggers, medals, flags, Marine uniforms, women's uniforms, etc. All Countries. Call 609-581-8290. (10) CASH FOR RECORDS!! - Buying LPs, reel tapes, CD's, stereos, guitars, saxophones, tube amplifiers + other music related. Come to (6) you. Brian 732-804-8115.

U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

For Sale - Oak dining room set, seats 6. 215-290-7092. Whiting, NJ 08759. (9)

Wanted - To Rent. widow needs room or small apartment starting March 1st. Leave Message 732-678-3880. (10)

Help Wanted Personal Executive Assistant - 2 days per week. Must be proficient with Excel, Salesforce CRM, Netscape CRM, Quick Books, Sales, Powerpoint and run errands. Remote position. Experience in Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Call 973-934-1171. (11) Laundromat Attendant - For FT/PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (13) Skilled Labor/Fulltime - Construction Site in Toms River. Contact Nick Nikitin. 732-261 4267. (10) Now Hiring – The Goddard School on Route 70 is seeking full time Teacher’s Assistant and leads for the upcoming school year. We provide a warm, loving environment for children up to six years. Must have a flexible schedule, available Mon-Fri. Benefits include paid time off, 401k and paid lunch on Fridays. To learn more about these positions, email your resume to toms river2nj@goddardschools.com Home Health Care Company Now Hiring RN’s, LPN’s and CHHA in Ocean & Monmouth Counties! Flexible scheduling. Work in your community. Weekly pay. Career advancement. Comprehensive benefits. Call 732-505-8000 today. (t/n) Crown Bank FT Teller Brick Cash handling preferred. Email resume martin.gorka@crownbank. net. Call 732-262-3900. $11 per hour. We are an E.O.E. employer. M/F. Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. 273 Brick Blvd., Brick NJ 08723. (10) Certified Home Health Aides Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n) Marina - Join our expanding team at our new marina in Toms River. We are seeking experienced marine mechanics, assembly techs & yard help. Great pay & benefits to qualified candidates. If you're under appreciated or under compensated contact Jared today at Jared@trkawyam.com or call 732-929-8168. (12)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs. Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (10) PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n) Computer Tutoring for Seniors – Retired, “Microsoft Certified” instructor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n) Cheap Painting Done Rite Free estimates. Fully insured. 38 years experience. 732-506-7787 cell 646-643-7678. (37) Man With Van LLC Home Improvements - All Phases of Carpentry Masonry Landscaping Repairs Restorations Demolition Debris Removal Cleanouts Dumpster Service Spring Cleanups Small Tree Trimming Pruning Removal NO JOB TOO SMALL Jim 609335-0330 HIC#13VH1080600. (13) Paint Your Rooms - Fast Clean Neat, Starting At $50. Per Room. Wallpaper Removal, Exteriors, Power Washing Call 732-864-6396 Leave Voicemail. (4)

ALL American Home Health Aides Experienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n) Need A Ride - Senior discounts. Airports: NEW, PHIL, AC, Trenton. Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227. (4)

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You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows: 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ *In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.

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Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE. If you have any questions, please call Ali at 732-657-7344, ext. 203.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 23

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE New Program Created To Help Substance Abuse Disorder

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Do you need a helping hand? Well a new program has been announced that can help you or a loved one. The Prosecutor’s Office has formed Ocean County Helping Hand (OCHH), a program that was created to identify and assist any person who is struggling with substance use disorder. “Ocean County Helping Hand is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the New Jersey Coordinator for Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies (NJ CARES). The grant allows for some latitude in how we utilize our resources. My team and I identified a segment of the community as being at risk and under serviced regarding access to substance use disorder treatment. In researching viable options, my team and I determined there is a significant segment of the community frequently returns to our municipal courts. These are individuals that commit minor possessory and paraphernalia type offenses. They get into a little bit of trouble but they never graduate to indictable level crimes. As such,

they are never exposed to or offered any type of substance use disorder treatment. With that in mind, we designed Ocean County Helping Hand to meet them where they are: in our municipal courts,” Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer stated. OCHH has currently taken in 19 individuals who were screened for services and/ or treatments and will be monitored by the OCPO team for up to twelve months. The program will help assist people in multiple ways including occupational training, housing and transportation assistance, family support services, and Naloxone training. “OCHH is another weapon in the arsenal in our war against the opioid epidemic and substance use disorder. We will continue to explore natural intersections between law enforcement and those individuals struggling from substance use disorder. With support of our community partners, we will make progress in our ongoing effort to effectively combat the opioid epidemic in Ocean County,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded. For more information, call 732-929-2027 or visit ocponj.gov

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Friday Night Recovery Meetings

OCEAN COUNTY –The Mental Health Association - Ocean County offers multiple meeting options for individuals in recovery every Friday. Times are as follows: • 6:15 p.m. Mental Health • 6:15 p.m. Men’s Group • 7:30 p.m. Double Trouble for those with both mental health and substance use disorders. Groups are held at Journey to Wellness, 25 S. Shore Drive, Toms River. Call 732-

244-0940 for more information. WINGS Meetings: This peer-run meeting, Wellness In Nurtured Grief Support, or WINGS, is offered to those in recovery. Topics include death of a loved one, job loss, divorce, and other loss that is related to substance use. Participants are offered support, understanding and coping strategies. WINGS meets at 5:45 p.m. on Mondays at Journey to Wellness, 25 S. Shore Drive, Toms River. Call 848-480-0905.

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

Students Learn About DART Prevention

OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer was honored to speak to the 8th and 9th grade students in Point Pleasant Borough prior to “Anytown.” “Anytown” is a musical performance that focuses on the effects of opioid abuse and its’ origins as it relates to student athletes

and their families. The DART Coalition, George Street Playhouse and Point Pleasant Borough Schools Superintendent Vincent Smith educated the students about the dangers of opioid abuse and the importance of making smart decisions and avoiding peer pressure.

Belmar/Lake Como Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Fundraiser Program

BELMAR – Join in for the 2020 Belmar/ Lake Como Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Fundraiser Program. The following is a schedule of events: • Feb. 23: Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, 815 16th Avenue, Belmar, 2 to 6 p.m. Entertainment – Hot & Cold Buffet. Donation $15. Call 732-681-7576. • Feb. 29: Investiture Mass at St. Rose

Church, 601 7th Avenue, Belmar, 10 a.m. Investiture Luncheon immediately following at Mike Doolan’s, Rt. 71, Spring Lake Heights, NJ. Luncheon Donation $35. Call 732-681-6171. • March 1: Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, 12:30 p.m., Main Street, Lake Como & Belmar. For information, call 732-280-2648 or email info@belmarparade.com.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

1st Saturday of Each Month at 10am (Call for details) In a Safe, Comfortable Setting Like the Home They’ve Always Known! Specialized care for the memory impaired from your home to our home Safe & comfortable care • 24-Hour supervision • Private bedrooms Safe & secure grounds • Activities 7 days a week Fully licensed and governed under the NJ Department of Health & Senior Service.

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Brick • 320 Herbertsville Road Toms River • 1126 Lakewood Road

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 24, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Prosecutor Implements Ride-Share Safety

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Do ever feel unsafe or in danger while taking an Uber? A county-wide ride-share safety announcement has been made by Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. This initiative is to help broadcast the issue and make residents more aware of the dangers behind it. 21-year-old Samantha “Sami” Josephson, a resident of Robbinsville, stepped into a stranger’s car mistaking it as her ride. Sami could not escape the car due to certain locks. Sami was kidnapped and murdered by someone pretending to be her Uber driver. As a result to this incident, Sami’s parents Seymour and Marci Josephson decided they wanted to share her story to alert others and inform them of these issues. The family established the #WHATSMYNAME Foundation, which will remind people to ask the driver to repeat back their name before entering the car. After Sami’s death, South Carolina legis-

lators devised the “Samantha L. Josephson Ridesharing Safety Act” which requires all ride-sharing vehicles to have lit up sign of the company’s logo that the company has provided for them. The Governor of South Carolina later signed the bill. Back in June of 2019, Governor Phil Murphy signed “Sami’s Law” that will be going into effect as of March 20. Ride-share companies are now obligated to issue additional identification materials to drivers to help passengers identify their vehicle. The driver must have two identifying markers presented in the front windshield and rear window. Companies also must provide every driver with two copies of a barcode that passengers can scan to validate the identity of the vehicle. Finally, placards must be presented on the driver side and passenger side window that show the driver’s name, photo and license plate number. There is a $250 fine for drivers who fail to comply with these rules. Companies’ permit to operate in New Jersey will be either suspended or removed.

Berkeley Animal Control

BERKELEY – The Animal Control Oﬃce now covers not only Berkeley Township, but Pine Beach, Ocean Gate, Seaside Park and the Borough South Toms River. Strays are picked up and brought to the Ocean County Animal

Shelter in Manahawkin, 327 Hay Road. The phone number there is 609-978-0127. Animal Control Officer Diane Ferrante can be reached at 732-797-1413 or berkeleyanimalcontrol@comcast.net.

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

OCEAN COUNTY – Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 856-547-0855.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 25

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Man Involved In Ocean County Shooting & All Day Manhunt Indicted

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – A New Haven, Connecticut man who led police on a chase to New York City has been indicted on charges of attempted murder, kidnapping, unlawful possession of a fi rearm for an unlawful purpose and multiple other charges. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Miguel Angel-Villegas, 29, was indicted on multiple charges including that of being a certain person not to possess a weapon; burglary; eluding; aggravated assault; aggravated assault; hindering apprehension or prosecution; and resisting arrest. Angel-Villegas is currently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending arraignment. Tuckerton Borough Police performed a motor vehicle stop in which Angel-Villegas was a passenger on Nov. 21. During that stop, the vehicle pulled away at a very high speed and collided with an-

other vehicle, injuring that vehicle’s driver at which point Angel-Villegas exited the vehicle, pulled out a fi rearm and began firing at the responding police officer. Angel-Villegas later fled on foot and was apprehended later the same night by the United States Marshals Service and members of the New York City Police Department just outside of Penn Station, New York City. An investigation by Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit detectives revealed that Angel-Villegas had previously threatened to kill his then-girlfriend – the driver of the vehicle -- if she did not drive him from Connecticut to New Jersey. According to police findings, he ordered her to provide the Tuckerton Borough Police Officer with a fictitious name and threatened her with a handgun, forcing her to speed away from the officer during the motor vehicle stop.

OCC Alumna Honored At Luncheon

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Hailey Dries, an Ocean County College alumna, was declared a “Woman of the Year” at the 28th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Award Luncheon. As the two-year starting pitcher for the OCC Vikings Softball team from 2017

to 2019, Dries has earned both NJCAA All-Region XIX and All-Garden State Athletic Conference Team honors in both of her seasons played. She ended her OCC athletic career ranked first in team history with 249 total strikeouts, and tied for first with 26 wins.

Library To Collect Prom Dresses & Tuxedos

MANCHESTER – The Ocean County Library is holding their 12th Annual Prom Dress Giveaway. The event will bring joy to young women and men, who prior to this charitable event, were unable to attend their Spring Formal or Prom. Short and long styles are accepted within

the last 5 years, dry cleaned items are preferred, no rips, tears or stains. Accessories, shoes and purses will not be accepted. Dresses and tuxedos will be accepted at all locations of The Ocean County Library now through March 12.

Volunteers Needed For Hospice Care

OCEAN COUNTY - Compassionate Care Hospice is looking for volunteers who are willing to give companionship to a patient and their family. This is a gift one gives to themselves as

the rewards are abounding – to help another at this time in their lives. For more information contact Volunteer Coordinator Kathleen O’Connell at 914-275-5766 or e-mail her at kathleen.oconnell@cchnet.net

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New Discussion Group To Form

OCEAN COUNTY – A Zionist/Israel discussion group now being formed in the Ocean County area. Be a part of something important.

The group will discuss books, authors, websites, events and much more. For more information, text or call 732551-4869.

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Page 26, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE New BlueClaws Uniforms Are A Home Run

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The BERKELEY Times MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS

In This Week’s Edition Community News!

−Photo courtesy Lakewood BlueClaws By Alyssa Riccardi LA K EWOOD – This summer, the BlueClaws will be sporting brand new and unique beach-themed uniforms. This shirt and hat outfit were customized just for the team, the hat having a playing color scheme of reds, blues and yellows like a beach ball, with a sand-colored brim. Showcasing the BlueClaws logo at the front of the cap, the adorable little blue crab is embroidered and is wearing a beach pail as its shell. The shirt is a light blue color with royal blue sleeves and red pipping to accent. The BlueClaws logo is also shown on the left side of the jersey. “We’re very excited to debut this alternate uniform in 2020,” said Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Over the last several years, we have brought elements of the Jersey Shore to the ballpark, and this is another logical step. Our team is going to look fantastic and we can’t wait to debut them on April 16th!” The BlueClaws are set to dress in the new uniforms for every Thursday home game NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE

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for the 2020 summer season. There is also new merchandise that fans can purchase in the Claws Cove gift shop and online at BlueClaws.com/shop Throughout the past couple of years, the BlueClaws have seen numerous amounts of additions to the ball park that have significantly made the place have a more fun and friendly atmosphere. Some of these upgrades include a family mini golf course by right field which was added in 2018. The Toyota World of Lakewood Home Run Pavilion was also added in 2018 and incorporates five classic boardwalk games that kids and adults can play. For adults, BlueClaws opened up a Biergarten where they host Thirsty Thursdays presented by 95.9 WRAT and the Coors Light Summer Concert Series. “These ballpark enhancements have further driven home the BlueClaws’ commitment to affordable, family entertainment here at the Jersey Shore,” said Ricciutti. “In particular this year, we’re going to reach 8-million fans and celebrate 20 years at the Shore. It’s a great time to be a BlueClaws fan.” Right now, 2020 BlueClaws Membership Plans are available for purchase. As a member, you will receive premium items, plus a hot dog, soda and ice cream at each game. You can also purchase boardwalk bundle tickets which are $15 and consist of a reserved seat ticket, a hot dog, soda, novelty ice cream, and game ticket for the Toyota World of Lakewood Home Run Pavilion. For more information, visit BlueClaws.com.

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The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020, Page 27

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of feb 22 - feb 28 By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): As this week unfolds, your desire for excitement could begin to wear thin on others. You like to stir things up but should remember to keep your promises. Someone might be immune to your obvious charms. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may receive more attention than expected. You can be a dynamic leader whenever there is something new to try since you are willing to experiment. In the week to come your love life could be intriguing. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Talk your way to the top. In the week ahead, your words can have an impact whether you are talking about business or discussing your goals. One of your loved ones could be unpredictable in the week ahead. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Keep your ear to the ground. Although conversations can be distracting, you will hear some useful bits of information, especially during the first half of the week. Use your financial savvy to enrich your bottom line. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A partner may be enthusiastic about helping you with one of your projects. Work together in the first half of the week for the best results. You are especially astute about financial matters and can make practical decisions. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Tell it like it is. During the upcoming week you could have a change of heart, but if you are honest about your feelings, a loved one will be understanding. You may be asked to donate to a group’s good cause. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You might not

have much of a chance for romance as the week unfolds. Although your heart is filled to the brim with affection, practical matters could take precedence. Enjoy some happy changes to your plans. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your good sense when handling financial affairs might brighten your reputation. Your workplace might be a center for social exchanges, or your friends might need some help with a fun project in the upcoming week. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t just hope that the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow will land in your lap. In the week to come, you can use your expertise to make money. Tackle problems with resourcefulness and ingenuity. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): All you need to do is faithfully keep your promises in the week ahead. You might see the advantage in altering plans, but this might upset someone in your family unit. Find a compromise to prevent disputes. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When you hear about a new idea or application, you readily see the possibilities and eagerly incorporate it into your daily routines. A partner may be adept at making savvy business decisions in the week ahead. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): People are willing to accept your decisions, although you may change your mind frequently. During the week ahead, you may purchase things that don’t suit your lifestyle because you want to be more logical.

wolfgang puck’s kitchen Pie Games: Global Ingredients Combine To Make A Perfect Wintertime Pizza By Wolfgang Puck Nowadays, pizza is more than just an Italian specialty. You’ll find people enjoying it wherever you travel around the world, from America to England to Japan to Qatar and beyond. I’m happy to have played some part in spreading that popularity, since I first began giving pizzas a new contemporary California spin at the first location of Spago I opened in Hollywood back in early 1982. Before then, not many people could have imagined pizzas topped with such gourmet and internationally influenced ingredients as duck sausage, smoked salmon with caviar, chicken with Mexican jalapeno peppers, or even something as far removed from most pizza lovers’ thinking as Peking duck! But we decided from the beginning to be inventive and have as much fun making pizza as people have eating it. The results definitely caught on. To me, pizza is a food to enjoy year round, whatever the occasion. And the wide range of topping ingredients available now makes it possible to adapt pizzas to any time of year and any occasion. The following recipe is a fine example of that approach. It traces back to the early days of Spago, combining ingredients from Italy, Asia, France and Germany to make a hearty yet refined tasting dish I find perfect for wintertime. Black Forest ham is a high-quality deli meat produced in the mountainous Black Forest region of southwestern Germany. I’ve always enjoyed its hearty yet refined, sweet and slightly spicy flavor, which results from curing, aging, cold-smoking and air-curing the meat over several weeks. Being prepared at cool temperatures, true Black Forest ham looks like a raw food rather than a cooked product, and it’s generally eaten like the similarly appearing Italian prosciutto, cut into thin, almost translucent slices. Those are the sort of slices you should start with for the pizza, either cut for you to order at a deli counter or purchased pre-sliced in a vacuum-sealed package at most well-stocked supermarkets. To complement this featured ingredient, my pizza also includes silky, earthy slices of pan-grilled or sauteed slender Japanese or Asian-style eggplants, which have a milder flavor and fewer seeds than the larger globe varieties. Along with the mixture of Italian fontina and mozzarella cheeses I enjoy on just about all my pizzas, I also add some fresh, creamy goat cheese like French chevre or one of the excellent varieties now produced in America. This eclectic combination of toppings adds up to a worldly pizza that feels at once both sophisticated and down-to-earth, refined and heartily comforting - a perfect casual main dish for you to warm up with when the weather outside feels cold and blustery. BLACK FOREST HAM AND GOAT CHEESE PIZZA Makes 4 individual pizzas 1 batch Wolfgang’s Pizza Dough (recipe follows), divided into 4 balls All-purpose flour or semolina, for dusting 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup (250 mL) shredded fontina cheese 2 cups (500 mL) shredded mozzarella cheese,

about 1/2 pound (250 g), or an equivalent weight in thinly sliced fresh mozzarella 2 small slender Japanese eggplants, trimmed and cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch (6-mm) slices, brushed with oil and grilled until tender, or sauteed in olive oil; or 1/2 pound large cultivated mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) slices and sauteed in olive oil until golden 1 cup (250 mL) crumbled fresh goat cheese 4 ounces (125 g) thinly sliced Black Forest ham, cut into thin julienne strips 1 bunch fresh basil leaves, 4 small sprigs reserved for garnish, remaining leaves chopped Set an oven rack at the highest level, place a pizza stone or baker’s tiles on the rack, and preheat to 500 F (260 C). Roll or stretch each piece of pizza dough into a circle 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter. One at a time, place a circle of dough on a wood peel (paddle) or rimless baking sheet lightly dusted with flour or semolina. Brush with oil and sprinkle with some pepper flakes to taste. Arrange a quarter each of the fontina and mozzarella on the dough, leaving a narrow rim. Arrange a quarter each of the eggplant, goat cheese and ham on top. Sprinkle with chopped basil. Slide the pizza from the peel onto the baking stone. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rim is deep golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Using the peel, remove the pizza from the oven. With a pizza wheel, mezzaluna, or large sharp knife, cut into slices, then transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with a basil sprig. Serve immediately, letting guests take individual slices. Assemble, bake and serve the three remaining pizzas the same way. WOLFGANG’S PIZZA DOUGH Makes 4 balls, each about 6 ounces (185 g) 1 package active dry or fresh yeast 1 teaspoon honey 1 cup (250 mL) warm water, 105 F to 115 F (40 C to 46 C) 3 cups (750 mL) all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and honey in 1/4 cup (60 mL) of the warm water. In a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Add the oil, the yeast mixture, and the remaining water, and process until the mixture forms a ball. Turn the dough out onto a clean work surface and knead by hand 2 or 3 minutes longer. The dough should be smooth and firm. Cover with a clean, damp towel and let rise in a cool spot for about 2 hours. (When ready, the dough will stretch as it is lightly pulled). Divide the dough into 4 equal balls. Work each by pulling down the sides and tucking under the bottom. Repeat four or five times. Then on a smooth, unfloured surface, roll each under the palm of your hand until the top is smooth and firm, about 1 minute. Cover with a damp towel and let rest 1 hour. At this point, the balls can be wrapped in plastic and refrigerated for up to two days.

(Chef Wolfgang Puck’s TV series,“Wolfgang Puck’s Cooking Class,” airs Sundays on the Food Network. Also, his latest cookbook, “Wolfgang Puck Makes It Easy,” is now available in bookstores. Write Wolfgang Puck in care of Tribune Media Services Inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buﬀalo, NY 14207) © 2020 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 28, The Berkeley Times, February 22, 2020

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