2020-02-29 - The Toms River Times by Jersey Shore Online

TheTOMS RIVER Times Vol. 15 - No. 44

In This Week’s Edition

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Plungers Get Warm Reception During A Chilly Event

Contest For GOP Nod For 3rd District Seat Heats Up

Community News! Pages 11-15

Members of the Elizabeth PBA pose for a photo while in the surf. BREAKING NEWS @

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Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Pages 20

Dear Pharmacist Pages 21

By Bob Vosseller SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Thousands of supporters of the Special Olympics came out to enter the chilly surf off the borough’s ocean front. They were freezing for a reason and that reason was to support a good cause and have some fun along the way. The cool event provided a warm reception for plungers who are considered to be the

heroes and heroines of the day and who enter the ocean for an icy dip, many in colorful costumes, to raise money pledged through sponsorship from supporters. Some plunge as individuals or as families while others form teams all in the cause of supporting the Special Olympics organization. To assure security within the large crowd the borough’s police de-

County’s Budget: Spending Up, Tax Rate Down

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – For the fourth year in a row, the county’s proposed tax rate will drop. The Board of Ocean County Chosen Freeholders introduced its $450,793,747 spending plan during their latest meeting.

Freeholder Director a proposed county Joseph H. Vicari said, property tax rate of “We are talking about 33.7 cents per $100 of a blueprint to operate an equalized value. Ocean County for the Each of the county’s next year. The good 33 municipalities will news is we will not cut experience that rate back on services and differently to allow for we will drop your tax the tax burden to be equitably distributed. rate.” The budget includes (Budget - See Page 31)

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─Photo by Bob Vosseller

partment and members of the Ocean County Sheriff’ Department were also there in force. The top plunge teams included 2 nd Avenue Freeze Out, Bayshore Sh r i n k y Di n ks, NJ Knights of Columbus Polar Penguins and Cat Crew. The top team, the Little Silver Crocs had raised $97,947 as of Feb. 21, a day prior to the plunge. This year’s plunge had special signif icance

for the team’s captain, Mike Laver ty, as it marked his final plunge. “I’ve plunged for Special Olympics since 2004. I got st ar ted because I have two developmentally and physically disabled children of my own Tim (37), and Laura (30) - and I wanted to help thousands of people like them,” Laverty said. His goal was to hit $36,500 this year (Polar - See Page 24)

Vetwork Lends A Helping Hand To Veterans

By Wendy McClure LACEY - Originally started as the Ocean County POW/MIA Organization in 1984, Vetwork is helping veterans get on their feet. Their mission is to meet the immediate and longterm needs of lower income veterans. The main goal is to provide a continuum of care to enable veterans to maintain and achieve self-suﬃciency. (Vets - See Page 8)

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By Chris Lundy OCEAN COUNTY – After an important recommendation by local Republicans, Kate Gibbs was given a higher profi le to compete against Democrat incumbent Andy Kim for the state’s 3rd District seat in the House of Representatives. Before the general election in November, there’s a primary election in June. That’s when each party chooses who will represent them on the ballot. But there’s a challenge before the primary, and some Republicans said they want to make sure there’s a unified front in this election. The Ocean County Republican screening committee recommended Kate Gibbs to be the candidate, said Frank Holman, the chairman of the Ocean County Republicans. However, she still has to win the convention on March 4. The fourth district includes parts of Burlington County as well. She was endorsed by that county’s Republican Committee. Gibbs is a former one-term Burlington County Freeholder. Although Holman said he didn’t participate in the process of recommending Gibbs, he said the nine-member screening committee was diligent in interviewing her, David Richter, and Barnegat Mayor John Novak. “There were three good candidates,” he said. “We need more women in our party for sure, and we need more young people.” Part of the screening process was answering for some legal issues she had in the recent past. According to reports, Gibbs shoplifted about $80 worth of clothes from a Kohl’s in Cherry Hill in 2006, when she was 20 years old. She is now banned from Kohl’s. When she was 22, she was charged with possessing less than 50 grams of marijuana and 5 grams of hashish in Long Beach Township. The case was conditionally discharged under the fi rst offender law. When she was 28, she was charged with (Seat - See Page 25)

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 7

BACK PAIN? We Have Your Back Pain Solution: 1 - Diagnose 2 - Fix the Problem Sciatica

Back Spasms

Back pain on its own is bad enough, but when nerves become compressed, they can create a condition called sciatica. Sciatic pain can travel as far down as the foot. Symptoms can range from a mild to sharp ache, excruciating pain, or a burning sensation. Some patients have described sciatica as feeling like a jolt or electric shock. Usually one side of the body is affected and is aggravated by prolonged sitting. Others have experienced numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the affected areas such as the leg or foot.

Muscle spasms in the back may sound familiar to you – they can range from slight discomfort to immobilizing pain. They may be a result of an injury or strain on the muscles, or of more chronic conditions like arthritis or disc issues. With proper treatment, you can take control of your muscle spasms. There may be pressure on the spine that can be corrected with chiropractic care, or acupuncture may help relax the muscle spasms.

Sciatica may derive from a sudden movement that sends pain shooting from the back down the legs. Or it may be a more long-term issue that comes and goes, getting worse over time. Either way, it is imperative you seek professional medical help to fix the problem and prevent further, possibly irreversible, damage. Monmouth Pain & Rehabilitation has a variety of skilled practitioners able to treat sciatica, addressing both the cause of the issue and relieving the pain itself through services like acupuncture, chiropractic, laser therapy, and more. To schedule your FREE consultation ($245 value) please call 732-345-1377.

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Spinal Stenosis Spinal Stenosis is an arthritic condition of the spine that may result in pain, tingling in the extremities, muscle weakness, and even difficulty walking. Recurring back pain is something that should and can be corrected, and at Monmouth Pain & Rehabilitation, we offer solutions that don’t involve surgery or medications. Our doctors combat the pain at the source, using a range of hands-on techniques, as well as cutting edge laser therapy and vibration therapy. Acupuncture has also been proven to provide relief. Any number of these modalities could make up the perfect formula for your custom treatment program – that’s what makes the Monmouth Pain & Rehabilitation experience unique. To schedule your FREE consultation ($245 value) please call 732-345-1377.

Similar to sciatica, is a condition in which the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks region, irritates the sciatic nerve. Symptoms are very similar to sciatica, and may also include aching or spasms in thepiriformis muscle and reduced range of motion in the hip joint. The skilled team of practitioners at Monmouth Pain & Rehabilitation is capable of providing relief from this syndrome and address it at the root of the problem.

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Herniated Disc Herniated discs occur when a spinal disc pushes through the spine, often times pressing on a nerve and resulting in pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in the legs or arms. Herniated discs can occur in the neck and lower back. If not treated, discs can continue to degenerate which may lead to permanent nerve damage.

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Vets:

Continued From Page 1

Special Occasion Announcements The Toms River Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagement, Wedding, Anniversary, Birth, Birthday Wishes, etc. Publication fee of $24.95 includes photo* and 200 word limit. The announcement will appear in Color and on ourWeb site!! Mail to: The Manchester Times, PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 or e-mail to agradzki@jerseyshoreonline.com. Enclose check or Visa/MasterCard/American Express information. For more information or questions, please call 732-657-7344. *Photos will not be returned unless accompanied by a self addressed, stamped envelope.

They offer, however, anything and everything they can to satisfy a need. Bernard Snyder is a retired Lacey Township Police detective and serves on the board for Vetwork. He explained the type of situations that he has witnessed through the years. Offering rides to and from Veterans Administration hospitals is a big part of their services, but there is so much more. Snyder recalled a local woman who suffered a foot wound during her enlistment but never had it treated. She was set to pay for surgery that would repair her foot, asking Vetwork to help with other bills. Counselors were able to help her file a claim that would cover the whole procedure. They also offer services for those suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. If someone comes to them and needs immediate assistance, they will refer them to the clinic in Brick that specializes in such matters and likely give them a ride. Or they offer referrals to those who are searching for someone to talk to on a regular basis. They can offer help when someone may find themselves without a place to stay for the night. There is a food bank on site to meet immediate demand. They have back packs people can grab that will supply them with needed essentials like; towels, scarves, toothpaste and shampoo. These packs are donated by organizations like the VFW, the Moose or Elks lodge. They also offer to cover burial costs for those who have no family. They even have a bicycle for a homeless vet who requested it. Snyder proudly tells the story of meeting a man who had stopped by for some food during his trek

that started in Connecticut. Asked if he needed anything at all, a bike was requested. After one was found and supplied, the man was so grateful he made a set of rosary beads out of parachute cord as a gift for the volunteer. He said his wife took the rosary to their church and people wanted to get their own set, but the man had already moved on. Snyder was sad that he wasn’t able to give the man the opportunity to make some money along the way.

How To Help The big dilemma for Vetwork now is they have lost funding. They were able to use a grant in the past to pay employees and cover operating expenses, but they weren’t able to secure the funding this year. They have had to limit the number of hours of being available in person due to this shortage. They are more dependent on corporate sponsorships and donations in order to keep serving the needs of Ocean County veterans. Snyder says they will apply for the grant again next year, but they aren’t sure how they will keep up services in the meantime. They do take donations and want you to know that more than 90 percent of the total donations goes toward veterans. They are currently reassessing where they can pull resources to cover operating costs so they can keep helping veterans in the area. If you are able to make a donation you can do so through their website at VetWork.org.

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 9

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY Letters To The Editor

E DITORIAL A Vacation From Social Media I recently took a week off to take my family to Disney and Universal. I lear ned that being without social media really is “the happiest place on earth.” Now, I did upload my pictures from the day to Facebook at night. And I did check in for a political update since the Iowa caucus was that week. But I didn’t l i nge r on Fa cebook or Twit ter, absently scroll i ng t h roug h a barrage of posts. You know what? It felt good! So good , i n fa ct , that I still haven’t resumed my social media habits. There were times I’d crash on the couch af ter a tough day and catch up to what my friends were doing on Facebook, or find something funny on Twitter (I follow mostly comedians and cartoonists, that way there’s always something funny to counter the bad news.) Usually, when that happens, though, suddenly half an hour has gone by and I’ve got nothing to show for it. In addition to it suck-

ing up free time, it consumes emotional energy. With social media, every single problem is right outside your door. Most of these problems are things you can’t do anything about (especially not while sitting on your couch). A lot of these problems won’t be a big deal in another day. Maybe not even another hour. The 24hour crisis factory will have chur ned something else out by then. Try this experiment: go without social media for a week. This doe sn’t cou nt st u f f you do for work. Just your personal pages. You’ll find that you’ll b e h ap pie r, mor e open-m i nded , more productive, and your neck won’t hurt from being hunched over a little phone. Instead of letting other people’s thoughts bounce around in your brain, take a “stay-cation” and stay in your own head for a while. Chris Lundy News Editor

W� W�� L�� T� T�� E��! The Toms River 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.

Home Rule Leads To Corrupt Rule It is in the national news that a lot of cor r uption exists in New Jersey, with eight cases of small town cor r uption in different places in New Jersey making the headlines. Why would anyone be surprised? New Jersey has over 550 different towns, over 550 governing bodies that make decisions and pass laws, hundreds and hundreds of school boards, over 550 police forces that have highly paid police officers who make decisions, over 500 mu nicipal cou r ts, over 550 zoning boards and or planning boards that allow or disallow developments and grant permits, hund reds and hu nd reds of political parties on a local and count y level yada, yada, yada. Do you get it? There is a lot of opportunity for people with power to be motivated to do things, and sometimes the illegal things. There is much more opportunity with all these individual entities within New Jersey’s hu nd reds and hundreds of towns and school boards etc. There should have been consolidation many years ago, and still, New Jersey is good old “home rule.” With this amount of home rule, there will always be more opportunity for “corruption.” It is that simple, and should be no surprise to anyone. David F. Lipton Beachwood

Kate Gibbs Can Beat Andy Kim Kate Gibbs has my unwavering support for Congress in the 3rd Congressional District. She is a strong Republican woman with a successful track record of job creation in the private sector as a labor union leader and also as

Letters To young The Freeholder in Burlington peopleEditor and women by the fact that there was County. Kate has the endorsement of the Burlington County GOP, Assembly members Jean Stanfield and Ryan Peters as well as loads of other local Republican leaders. Kate is also on the National Republican Congressional Committee’s Young Guns List. Despite the groundswell of support that Kate Gibbs has received, another candidate named David Richter recently announced his intention to run against Gibbs. Unlike David Richter, Kate was born and raised in the 3rd Congressional Dist r ict. Un li ke David Richter, Kate doesn’t give up when the f ight gets tough. Here’s what happened: Richter was originally running in the 2nd Cong ressional Dist r ict against Van Drew but once party leaders decided not to support him, he packed up and moved to the 3rd District. Local Republican leaders were quick to condemn Richter’s latest district switch and came to Kate G ibbs’ defe n se. Sout h Toms River Republican Councilman Thomas Rolzhausen recently said “Kate Gibbs is the best candidate to beat A ndy K im. We as Republicans, need to get together and support one candidate and don’t run a primary. We need all Republicans to win. We need to save valuable money and use it to fight Democrats not fellow Republicans. United we stand divided we fall. Kate Gibbs for Congress!” Aside from being a great p e r son a nd ca nd id at e, Kate Gibbs can also raise the money needed to beat Andy Kim. She has proven that she can win in tough winnable elections. David R ichter t r y i ng to push Kate Gibbs out of the race is a terrible look for the Republican Par t y. At a t i me when t he Re pub lican Par ty needs more

to run for oﬃce it would be a disaster for the GOP if Gibbs was denied the nomination. David Richter is everything that is wrong with the Republican Party and Kate Gibbs is the kind of candidate we need as a party to be successful in future elections! Vote for Kate Gibbs on June 2, and Nov. 3. Dana McDonald Brick

Seniors Lose Money, Immigrants Don’t A recent article spoke of cuts to New Jersey senior programs of about $700,000+ (“County Challenges State On Senior Funding Loss,” Feb. 1). There are cuts to programs for New Jersey and USA venerable citizen seniors while New Jersey added $1M+ to the existing $1M+ for illegal aliens. When will Democrats learn the cost of the Democratic governors and Democratic presidential candidates existing and proposed programs come at direct cost to lower and middle classes and NOT the top 1-10% as they say. This is a perfect example. Joseph Cannatelli Barnegat

All Is Not Well In Iran “All is well,” proclaimed Donald Trump shortly after the assassination of Qassem Soleimani and Iran’s faint-hearted attempt to r e t a l i a t e by a t t a ck i ng American military bases. He was no doubt cheered

no American bloodshed. But were there really no casualties? Some 176 innocent people met violent deaths when their Ukrainian air plane was shot down by Iranian forces; another fi fty civilians were trampled to death during the mourning ceremonies in Tehran. All of these people would still be alive if it were not for a careless, purely political decision made by the churlish buffoon in the oval oﬃce. Michael J. Doherty Berkeley

Andy Kim Protects Health Care Unlike his predecessor representing the 3rd Congressional District, Congressman Andy Kim offers legislative updates and takes questions from all comers at monthly town hall meetings throughout the district-from the Delaware River to the Atlantic Ocean. Congressman Kim works methodically on legislation to improve health insurance coverage, things such as lower drug costs for seniors and protections for provisions that outlaw preexisting condition exclusions. While the Republican establishment is quietly and systematically dismantling the health insurance of thousands through regulator y changes and court challenges to benefit the industry, Andy Kim is squarely on the side of consumers. Jamie Harrison Waretown

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

Package Of Bills Promise State Ethics Reforms From The Desk Of The

Governor Phil Murphy TRENTON – Building on his long-term commitment to changing the political culture in Trenton, Governor Phil Murphy unveiled a sweeping set of ethics proposals to strengthen restrictions on lobbying, enhance fi nancial disclosure requirements, and increase transparency in the legislative process. The legislative package, which follows Governor Murphy’s call for action in his State of the State address in January, will have bipartisan sponsors in the Senate and the Assembly, including Senator Richard Codey, Senator Chris Brown, and Assemblyman Ryan Peters. “When I ran for Governor, I pledged that if elected, I would make every decision

based on what is best for the people of New Jersey, not Trenton insiders,” said Governor Murphy. “At a time when public cynicism about government is all too common, we must restore the public’s confidence by making government more transparent and accountable than ever. For the fi rst time in a decade, we are proposing comprehensive ethics reforms to ensure that elected officials are serving the public interest, not the special interests.” Alongside bipartisan partners in the Legislature, G ove r nor Mu r phy a n nounced a comprehensive legislative package outlining wide-ranging new ethics rules in New Jersey. The five bills contained in

the package will address the following: Lobbying Refor m: The bill will target the shadow lobbying industry by requiring lobbying fi rms and companies that hire lobbyists to disclose when they hire a person or fi rm to provide professional services other than lobbying, a proposal that was introduced by Senate President Sweeney last session. This bill will also reduce the threshold for individuals to register as governmental affairs agents from 20 hours of lobbying activities per calendar year to one hour per calendar year. Eliminating Legislative Exemption to OPRA: The bill will remove the very broad legislative exemption to OPRA that exempts all communications for the use of a legislative member in the course of their oﬃcial duties. Eliminating this exemption ensures that the executive branch and legislative branch would operate under the same rules.

Aligning Gift and Outside Income Rules: Currently, legislators and legislative staff are permitted to accept gifts as long as they do not know or have reason to believe that the gift is offered to them to influence the performance of their public duties or responsibilities. This bill would subject legislators and legislative staff to the same standard that cur rently governs executive branch employees, who are prohibited from accepting any gift related in any way to the employee’s public duties. Additionally, this bill will also prevent high-level legislative staff from receiving outside income unless they seek review and approval by the Joint Legislative Committee on Ethical Standards. Under current state law, designated senior staff members in the Governor’s Oﬃce cannot receive outside income unless they seek review and approval by the State Ethics Commission. Lastly, the

bill will require legislators and all executive and legislative branch employees earning $100,000 or more per year to fill out the detailed fi nancial disclosure form promulgated by the State Ethics Commission. Extending the Cooling Off Period: New Jersey’s “cooling off ” period, which statutorily applies to the Gover nor, Cabinet, and legislators, is cur rently one year, meaning those officials must wait a full year after leaving their jobs before being able to register as lobbyists. The bill extends this cooling off period from one year to two years and applies it to all executive and legislative branch staff earning $100,000 or more per year as a matter of law. A number of states, including New York, Colorado, and Alabama, have twoyear prohibitions, partially based on the rationale that a two-year cooling off period ensures that a former oﬃcial will not be lobbying

during the same legislative session when they were in oﬃce. Legislative Transparency: The legislative proposal will require bills or resolutions not to be voted on unless their fi nal form has been made publicly available on the Legislature’s website for 72 full hours preceding the vote. This legislative proposal will also require the disclosure of all organizations or individuals who submit testimony supporting or opposing bills or resolutions, similar to an existing requirement in California. In 2012, the Center for Public Integrity gave New Jersey a B+ grade on ethics, the top grade in the nation. By 2015, New Jersey fell to a D grade, and was ranked only 19th in the nation. Today’s announcement ref lects Gover nor Murphy’s commitment to make New Jersey’s ethics laws as strong as any in the country.

Survey: 70 Percent Claim Their Road Is In Need of Repair From The Desk Of

Congressman Andy Kim WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Andy Kim (D-3rd) released the results of an online survey showing that 70 percent of those asked stated that their own road is in need of repair, underscoring a need for bold action to rebuild America’s infrastructure. “If there ever was an issue we can find bipartisan agreement on, it’s fixing our roads and bridges,” said Congressman Kim. “It’s simply ridiculous that when the vast majority of our neighbors face this issue on their doorsteps,

Congress can’t find common ground to act.” More than 530 residents of Burlington and Ocean Counties responded to the Congressman’s survey asking if the road they live on is in need of repair. A recent report from the American Road & Transportation Builders Association states that of the nearly 600 bridges in New Jersey’s Third District, 44 are classified as “structurally deficient” and 155 are in need of repair. “Investing in our infrastruc-

ture isn’t just about making our roads and bridges safe,” said Congressman Kim. “It’s also about creating good paying jobs for local workers right here in New Jersey. We have members of our building trades in New Jersey who are ready to make our infrastructure safe for our neighbors. It’s time we put them to work.” Last year, Congressman Kim led several bipartisan efforts to increase funding for critical programs that help New Jersey businesses and families, including $1.45 billion in funds for the USDA Water and Sewer program that will help build new infrastructure for safe drinking water. Last month, Congressman Kim introduced the Resilient Highways Act, which would

allow State Departments of Transportation to use up to 15 percent of funds apportioned under the National Highway Performance Program for projects to mitigate the risk of recurring damage from extreme weather, flooding,

and other natural disasters on infrastructure within the National Highway System. These kinds of projects would include raising and relocating roadways out of flood prone areas, constructing drainage structures, and using natural

infrastructure to mitigate flood risk. Major roads potentially impacted by this bill include the New Jersey Turnpike, Route 130, and Route 537 in Burlington County, and Route 70 and Route 35 in Ocean County.

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 11

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

Medical Center Introduces Technology For Diagnosing Heart Disease LAKEWOOD – Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus is the first hospital in the region to offer HeartFlow® Fractional Flow Reserve Computed Tomography (FFR-CT), an advanced, noninvasive technology that enables physicians to determine whether a patient has heart disease. FFR-CT is very low risk and provides accurate information about conditions of the arteries. This new technology is beneficial for patients who may have heart disease and are experiencing symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath. HeartFlow® technology with FFR-CT calculates how blood is flowing through the coronary arteries and helps physicians identify whether a patient has coronary artery disease before undergoing invasive and possibly unnecessary catheter-based testing. It can also assess whether a specific plaque in a coronary artery is restricting blood flow, helping physicians determine whether a patient would benefit from stents or bypass surgery. HeartFlow® FFR-CT provides an astonishingly sharp, three-dimensional digital image of blood vessels. “The ability to reduce invasive and potentially unnecessary coronary angiograms with a single comprehensive and noninvasive diagnostic test is an important advancement for patients,” says Frank J. Vozos, M.D., FACS, Executive Vice

President, RWJBarnabas Health and Chief Executive at MMCSC. “I’m extremely proud that MMCSC is one of the first hospitals in the area to provide this technology to Monmouth and Ocean County residents.” “We can determine, vessel by vessel, both the extent of an artery’s narrowing and the impact that the narrowing has on blood flow to the heart,” explains Rajesh Mohan, MD, MBA, FACC, FSCAI, Chief Medical Oﬃcer who is also an interventional cardiologist. “This cutting-edge technology uses sophisticated software that combines blood flow with the anatomy of the heart to determine the significance of blockages, if any, with great accuracy and helps doctors determine what types of interventions, are necessary. Most importantly, the introduction of this new technology will combine human intelligence and artificial intelligence to help the vast majority of patients avoid unnecessary invasive testing,” says Dr. Mohan In addition to helping physicians’ direct patients to the most appropriate care, HeartFlow®FFR-CT technology also provides a better patient experience and reduces costs associated with unnecessary testing. For more information on HeartFlow®FFR-CT technology, visit rwjbh.org/monmouthsouth.com

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Page 12, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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

The Goddard School Hosts Open House TOMS RIVER – The Goddard School will be hosting an open house on March 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. The infant and first steps programs offer caring and supportive teachers fostering social-emotional development through nurturing relationships with the children while babies develop physical skills as they learn to move and manipulate toys. As young learners begin to walk and talk regularly, their curiosity drives them to explore. The toddler and get set classrooms foster children’s developing independence by helping them hone valuable skills, such as the abilities to collaborate and communicate. In the preschool classroom, children develop perseverance by engaging in learning activities and sticking with them until they solve the problem or complete the project. Young learn-

ers continue their journey of exploration and discovery in our pre-kindergarten classroom. Teachers help them apply their developing literacy and math skills through purposeful, planned learning experiences. The F.L.EX. Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) is grounded in research on how children learn best: children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun. It’s designed to help build each child’s emotional, academic, social, creative and physical skills to provide a well-rounded experience. The accredited, play-based curriculum is enhanced with a wide range of enrichment programs such as manners, fitness & yoga, music appreciation, computer skills, science & math and foreign & sign language. For more information, call 732-363-5530 or visit goddardschool.com/Toms-River-IINJ

Hospice Volunteers Needed

Compassionate Care Hospice is looking for Volunteers who are willing to give companionship to a patient and or their family. This is a gift one gives to his or her self as the rewards are

abounding - to help one at this time in their lives. For more information please contact Kathleen O’Connell, Volunteer Coordinator 914-275-5766 or Kathleen.oconnell@cchnet.net.

Worry less. Live more. Need an active senior living community focused on whole-person wellness and offering a full continuum of care – including rehab? We’re just minutes away.

1st Annual, Red Shoe Dinner, Fashion Show, Silent Auction & Women of the Year Event!

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 13

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

Become a Volunteer Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate

LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP – St. Francis Counseling Services is now taking applications for the Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate (CSVA) Training Program. The trainings are held from 6 to 9 p.m. every Monday for 12 weeks, from February 13 through May 14, 2020 in Toms River, NJ. Are you a compassionate and caring individual looking to make a difference in the lives of others? Join our team of trained Forensic Nurses, Advocates and Law Enforcement! Our no cost 40 hour training will certify you to advocate for people who have experienced sexual violence. The training infuses principles of anti-oppression and multiculturalism in every step. Advocates will gain a strong

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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understanding on how racism, oppression and inequality intersect with sexual violence, which will help them best serve every survivor they interact with in their role. Advocacy is based on the principle that the individual is the best person to make decisions in their life. Once trained, you will be on call to provide crisis intervention, educational information and resources to survivors of sexual violence. All potential advocates are encouraged to apply. Bilingual advocates are also needed. To apply and set up an interview, contact Meghan McAleer at 609-494-1554 or email: mmcaleer@stfrancislbi.org. Applications can be found online at: stfranciscenterlbi. org.

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Page 14, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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

NOW OPEN! BERKELEY TOWNSHIP LAW OFFICE To better serve your legal needs 600 Mule Road Suite 16, Toms River Robert C. Shea Marc S. Galella Dina M. Vicari Michael J. Deem Christopher R. Shea Robert C. Shea II Estate Planning Personal Injury Real Estate Medicaid Law Medical Malpractice Condominium Law Municipal Court

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OCVTS Announces New Heavy Equipment Operator Program

TOMS RIVER – During the Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) Board Meeting, Robert Earle committed his support for the new Heavy Equipment Operator Program (HEOP) while receiving a commendation from Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari for his commitment to the district. Earle Companies is a family-owned business and has recently entered into a partnership with OCVTS to train and prepare students for the many employment opportunities using heavy duty equipment in the construction field. One of the goals of this partnership is to equip students with the skills and industry-recognized credentials necessary to be successful in this industry. These credentials will propel completers into high wage positions that will benefi t not only Earle Companies, but other local businesses with

similar employee needs. Earle has committed $100,000 and the district will allocate these funds towards the simulators needed for the instructional piece of the program. The HEOP can lead to employment for not only OCVTS students once they complete the two-year curriculum for high school students, but also adults that will be placed in the evening school Apprentice Program. All of the curriculum instruction will take place at the OCVTS Jackson Center and the hands-on training will be provided at the Earle facility in Jackson. Industry recognized stackable credentials will be one of the components of instruction. For assistance with choosing the OCVTS program and Open House location that best suits you, visit ocvts.org or call 732-473-3100, Ext. 3157.

Local Church Runs Men’s Program

TOMS RIVER – St. Joseph’s Catholic Church is running an interactive men’s program combining the best research from science with the teachings of the Catholic Faith and the wisdom of the saints to develop the vision of man fully alive by honestly addressing the pressures and temptations that men face in our modern culture.

This year’s theme is The Battle Over the Bridge, The Unveiling of Love. The program is free and will run on February 29 from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. at Donovan Catholic High School, 711 Hooper Ave, Toms River. For more information, contact St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 732-349-0018.

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 15

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

Library Celebrates Women’s History Month

─Photo courtesy Ken Smith, Quiet Heart Images TOMS RIVER – As part of its Women’s History Month celebration, the Ocean County Library will host Michèle LaRue in “Someone Must Wash the Dishes: An Anti-Suffragist Satire” at five branches during March. “Someone Must Wash the Dishes” is a satire written in 1912 by social reform pioneer Marie Jenny Howe. Michèle’s character is a prim, affable anti-suffragist whose own rhetoric inadvertently illustrates the value of women’s voting rights. “Someone Must Wash the Dishes” will be performed at the following branches:

• Lakewood Branch, 301 Lexington Ave., March 7 at 2 p.m. • Tuckerton Branch, 380 Bay Ave., March 9 at 6:30 p.m. • Waretown Branch, 112 Main St., March 10 at 2 p.m. • Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Dr., March 14 at 2 p.m. • Upper Shores Branch, 112 Jersey City Ave., March at 6 p.m. Registration is required for these free events. Register by phone or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

www.funonwheelstours.com • 609.857.6000 PO Box 211 • Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734 May 27 The Tina Turner Musical $189/pp Lunch included before show May 27 West Side Story $159/pp Lunch included before show | July 1 West Side Story $165/pp Nov. 11 The Temptations Musical Lunch included before show $189/pp Mar. 27-29 – 3 DAY Washington D.C. @ Cherry Blossom $595/pp DBL. OCC Includes: 2 Nts. Gaylord National Harbor Resort, 2 Breakfasts, Shrek The Musical, Odyssey Luncheon Cruise on Potomac & More. Apr. 14-15 – 2 DAY MOUNT AIRY CASINO $249/pp DBL. OCC Includes Bill Haley Jr. & The Comets Show; Day 1- $40 Slot Play, Dinner Buffet & Show; Day 2- $30 Slot Play @ Wind Creek Casino Apr. 16 – Day in Cape May Includes Lunch at Lobster House $124/pp Apr. 28 – Queen Esther at Sight & Sound Theatre Includes Lunch $125/pp May 5 – “That’s Amore” A TRIBUTE TO DEAN MARTIN Included lunch before show $99/pp May 11-16 – 6 Day Elkins, WV & Ark Encounter $799/pp DBL. OCC May 17-23 – 7 DAY SAVANNAH & CHARLESTON $1399/pp DBL. OCC 2 nts. Savannah, 2 nts. Charleston; Charleston Tea Plantation, Guided Tours May 31-June 3 – 4 Day Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard $739/pp DBL. OCC June 7-11 – 5 DAY NIAGARA FALLS & TORONTO at the Hilton Fallsview Hotel $899/pp DBL. OCC June 18-21 – 4 DAY BALLOONS OVER VERMONT $749/pp DBL. OCC Includes 3 nt. stay, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners & attractions July 11 – Aladdin or Lion King or Frozen $155/pp July19-25 – 7 Day Machinaw Island & Detroit Music Tour $1575/pp DBL. OCC July 30 – Tribute to Neil Diamond @ Royal Manor Includes Lunch & Show $99/pp Aug. 2-7 – 6 Day Quebec, Canada Includes Meals, Step on guided tours $1199/pp DBL. OCC Aug. 9-11 – 3 Day Finger Lakes & Wine Tour $549/pp DBL. OCC Aug. 12-13 – 2 Day Dover Downs Casino $199/pp DBL. OCC Includes Diana Ross & Supremes Tribute Show, Dinner, Breakfast, $50 Slot Play Aug. 23-28 – 6 Day Myrtle Beach Includes Beach front resort, shows & meals $1095/pp DBL. OCC Sept. 8-9 – 2 Day Dover Downs Casino $224/pp Includes Michael Jackson Tribute Show, $50 Slot Play & 2 meals Sept. 13-23 – 11 Day Missouri & Tennessee $2195/pp DBL. OCC 3 Nts. Branson, 2 Nts. Nashville, 2 Nts. Memphis, Meals, Shows, Step-On-Guide Tours Sept. 27-29 – 3 Day Hamptons Rich & Famous Tour $539/pp DBL. OCC Includes 2 Nts. in Sag Harbor, Meals, Step on guided tour Oct. 3-14 – 12 Day New Orleans & Texas Tour $2295/pp DBL. OCC Includes a visit to Joanna Gaines store, Meals, Museums, Step on Guided Tours Bus Departures LANOKA HARBOR Walmart (Rte 9) • Toms River (Exit 81 West Water Street) NJT Station Cheesequake Plaza (GSP) • Brick Target (Rte 70) • Monmouth Service Plaza

Please visit our website for ALL upcoming trips.

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Page 16, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Library Hosts Autism Resource Fair

By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – Have you ever wanting to learn more about autism or aspire to work in the Applied Behavioral field? Well the Ocean County library has the perfect opportunity for you. The Toms River Branch of the Ocean County library will be holding their fourth annual Autism Resource Fair on April 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All are welcome, whether you are family, a caregiver or an eager professional, to come out to learn new information, enjoy some entertainment, and see all the possible career paths you can take. The event offers 40 county agencies, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, support and service groups and entertainers. Activates will consist of “Songs & Silliness” by Mr. Jon & Friends, balloon art by

Cheryl Schwendel, costumed characters and face painting by A Land and Sea Mermaid, therapy dogs, adult creative space, sensory play, and trivia for teens. The New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities, Ocean Partnership for Children, Inc., and Ocean County Sheriff ’s Oﬃce will be conducting workshops which anyone who attends is qualified for Certificates of Completion. Anyone who is looking to further their education and is aspiring to become a professional, there will be representatives from Georgian Court University, Kean University and Rutgers University to talk about Applied Behavioral Analysis Programs. The fair is free and open for anyone to attend. If you would like to register for “Songs & Silliness” and for the workshops, online registration begins March 1.

Read Across America Program

TOMS RIVER – Join the America Institute of Toms River to celebrate Dr. Suess’ birthday. They will honor Dr. Seuss with a children’s reading corner on March 2 from 4 to 6 p.m. at 2363 Lakewood Rd., Toms River.

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 17

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE High School Presents Spring Musical TOMS RIVER – Faust meets professional baseball in the Broadway send up of love and the American pastime. The Toms River High School South Theatre Guild is proud to present the classic musical “Damn Yankees” on March 5, 6 and 7, in the High School South Cafetorium. Based on the novel, The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant by Douglass Wallop, Damn Yankees the Broadway mega-hit and winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, hits it out of the park. Dax Hanson stars as the fiendishly delightful Mr. Applegate, who transforms Joe Boyd, played by Derek Madrigal, into a star baseball

star Joe Hardy played by Greg Sycle. The only catch is that Joe has sold his soul for the chance to have the Washington Senator beat the Yankees, and he will have to leave his loving wife Meg, played by Nicolette Davis, forever. When Joe tries to get out of the bargain, Applegate sends his helper, the temptress Lola, played by Jolie Regan, to help lure him back. With beloved Broadway tunes like “Heart” and “Whatever Lola Wants”, Damn Yankees is a home run hit, a wicked, romantic comedy, sure to please. Tickets are $5 with a student ID and $10 for general admission. Tickets will be available at the door. All performances are at 7 p.m.

Local Animal Rescue Invites You To A “Kitten Shower”

TOMS RIVER – Join the cats and kittens of All Fur One Pet Rescue for a kitten shower. Kitten season is fast approaching and they are preparing for the arrival of new kittens. The event includes refreshments, fun and

of course kittens. There will be a wishing well for donations. Donations are not required to attend, but are greatly appreciated. The shower will be February 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1747 Hooper Ave., Toms River.

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Fun and Exciting Field Trips! Lakehurst Naval Base Asbury Park Spray Park Monmouth Museum & Insectropolis!

Special Days Wacky Wet Wednesdays • Kona Ice Truck

Karaoke Dance Party Sensory Day & so much more!

If you sign-up by March 1st for the 10 weeks of Summer Camp, the last week of camp is free! http://www.goddardschool.com/ nj-ny/toms-river-crescent-road-nj Visitors and Trips are subject to change. To attend field trips, you must be 4 years and older.

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Page 18, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

TOMS RIVER DIABETIC

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 19

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE OCC Holds Panel For Anniversary Of 19th Amendment TOMS RIVER – Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment with Ocean County College. A panel discussion, set for 11 a.m. on March 3, is free and open to the public. This event will take place on the main stage of the Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts, located on the OCC main campus. The 19th Amendment, certified in 1920, guarantees and protects women’s constitutional right to vote. It reads: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied of abridged by the United

States or by any State on account of sex. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.” Linda Bowden, Regional President of PNC Bank; Dr. Susan Cole, President of Montclair State University; and former Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno, President and CEO of Fulfill, will serve on the panel. The event will be moderated by Anjali Mehrotra, Executive Director of Emerge NJ and President of NJ NOW. For more information, contact Christine O’Neill in Academic Affairs at 732-2550400, ext. 2436, or coneill@ocean.edu.

Pelvic Therapy Discussion At Library

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch will present Dr. Jamie Scomak of Inner Dynamics Physical Therapy of Ocean and Monmouth Counties in a discussion of pelvic therapy, on March 2 at 6 p.m. Dr. Scomak will discuss the scope, diagnoses and practices of pelvic physical therapy for men and women who cope

with bladder dysfunction, constipation, post-surgical conditions and other disorders related to the pelvic and abdominal regions. The branch is located at 101 Washington Street. The event will take place in the Bishop Building. To register, call 732-349-6200, or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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Hearing loss is the third most prevalent condition among elderly Americans, behind high blood pressure and arthritis. While most people undergo blood pressure testing and treat their sore joints, few elderly individuals undergo hearing tests. When people do acknowledge a hearing problem, they usually do so at their spouse’s insistence. Why? In most cases, hearing loss develops so gradually that many sufferers do not realize that they have a problem. More than 90 percent of hearing loss is sensorineural (no deafness), which typically results from damage to the hair cells of the cochlea. This type of hearing loss is characterized by an inability to hear high frequency sounds and can be greatly improved with the help of a hearing instrument. Hearing breaks down into two basic

parts – threshold, the ability to perceive how loud sound is (volume), and discrimination, an ability to perceive how high or low it is (pitch). Sound moves in waves (cycles), and Hertz describes the frequency of those cycles. The higher the frequency, the more cycles, the greater the number of Hertz, the higher the pitch. Age-related hearing loss most often starts with deficits in discrimination because the ear loses its ability to register high frequency sounds. As a result, sounds formed by some consonants and blended consonants, such as “F” and “SH” which are uttered at higher pitch than vowel sounds, tend to sound alike. This is an indication of hearing loss. Remember, many people with age-related hearing loss say they can hear just fi ne. They just do not understand what is being said.

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The Toms River Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

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The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 21

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

Stay Safe By Identifying Hidden Food & Drug Allergies

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Adults can tell pretty easily if they react to a specific food but it may go unrecognized in kids. Symptoms associated with food allergies vary greatly from individual to individual. Most people know about skin rash, hives, itch or tingly sensation in the mouth and lip/tongue swelling. Also, abdominal cramps or swelling of the throat and/or vocal cords. Here are some other symptoms: • Flushed or hot skin • Diarrhea • Nausea (or vomiting) • Coughing, sneezing or wheezing • Dizziness • Fainting or Lightheadedness If you experience any of these symptoms, get help. Taking Benadryl isn’t the answer for everyone, some people need emergency medical care, an inhaler to help breath or an EpiPen, and/or a Medrol Dosepak (or steroid equivalent). Here are some common food allergens to look out for: Peanuts. Peanuts are highly allergenic to millions of people, so I’ve always thought it was in poor taste to serve them on planes. Southwest Airlines stopped doing on August 1, 2018. Good for them! There is peanut oil in the medication “Prometrium” and Depakene® (Valproic Acid, a drug used for seizures and nerve pain). Hidden sources of peanuts include marzipan, beer nuts, nougat and weirdly, artificial nuts! FYI, the first peanut antidote type of medication was just FDA approved (January 2020) and it is called Palforzia. Eggs. Obviously, you can avoid eggs for breakfast as well as quiche, but did you know you should also read labels and probably avoid many baked goodies, some canned soups, frosting, mayonnaise, marshmallows, meatloaf and cer-

tain brands of coffee drink foam and ice cream! The surgical sleep-inducing anesthetic called “propofol” contains egg proteins (as well as -based ingredients). Fish & Shellfish. This type of allergy usually causes breathing diﬃculties and can be very severe. Hidden sources of fish-based ingredients are found in Worcestershire sauce, Caesar dressing, surimi and caviar. As for shellfish, think of lobster, crab, prawns, shrimp and crawfish. You will need to avoid glucosamine as well, because this is derived from shellfish. Tropomycin is the most predominant compound in shellfish that people are allergic to, and may cause you to feel faint, lightheaded, dizzy or foggy. This may ruin your appetite for lobster and crab but just so you know, tropomycin is also common in cockroaches! Milk. Allergies to milk are due to the protein called “casein.” Milk alternatives on occasion have dairy-derived whey protein in them, which fools people into thinking their safe when they’re laden with milk-derived proteins. So, check your label on pea, oat, soy, almond, coconut or flax milk just to be 100% sure it doesn’t have any milk-derived allergens in it. You know the obvious ones to avoid like cow’s milk, ice cream, butter, cow’s milk-based cheese, sour cream, cream cheese and yogurt. But dairy hides in deli meats, gravy, baked goods and batter-fried foods. Some breathing medications/inhalers such as Advair Diskus, Flovent Diskus, Asmanex and Pulmicort contain lactose monohydrate which contains milk proteins like casein. So be aware of this if you’re treating a milk/dairy allergic reaction with an inhaler that contains trace amounts of it! For a more comprehensive list of food and drug allergens, read the longer version of this article at my website, suzycohen.com

(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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Page 22, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Organization Hosts Annual Chef’s Night Out

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TOMS RIVER – Dozens of area restaurants, caterers, bakeries, specialty stores and beverage distributors are expected to participate in the 24th Annual International Chef’s Night Out on March 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the RWJ Barnabas Arena. In addition to the magnificent food and beverage offerings there will be a 50/50 raﬄe valued at up to $10,000, themed gift baskets and door prizes. All attendees may sample an extensive variety of sweet and

savory delicacies as well as some of the area’s fine wines and beverages. Proceeds go to scholarships for adult learners that attend Ocean County Vocational School and state of the art equipment for Ocean County Vocational School students. Tickets are $60 in advance and $75 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit ocvtsfoundation.org. For more information, contact Sharon Noble at 732-473-3100 ext. 3157.

High School Class Of 65 Luncheon

OCEAN COUNTY – Each month, the Clifton High School Class of 1965 has a luncheon meeting at the American Legion Post 129 at 2025 Church Road in Toms River. Meetings are on the first Wednesday of the month. The next meeting is March 4 at 11:30 a.m.

Classmates meet in the post canteen for beverages and gossip, then order from the lunch $10 menu and continue stories and laughs. We have a yearbook available to see what everyone looked like in 1965. If you have any questions or comments, contact Bob Silva at cva38shang@verizon.net

Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 23

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Community Creates Fundraiser For Fire Victims By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – Many locals in the Silverton community have been affected by the tragic house fi re that struck the neighborhood. On the evening of February 7, a fi re completely destroyed a family’s house and resulted in a death of one of the residents. While the GoFundMe for that family is more than $100,000, the fi re had spread to the neighbors’ homes and they need assistance as well.

A GoFundMe page has been created by the community to help support these nearby families who were affected by this disaster. A total of five families have significantly been impacted, two of which are currently displaced from their homes. If you would like to help these families with their basic expenses and rebuild their lives, donate to the “Silverton House Fire” GoFundMe fundraiser: gofundme.com/f/ silverton-house-ﬁre

Moose Lodge Hosts Spaghetti Dinner

ORTLEY BEACH – Members of the Ortley Beach Moose Lodge #399 will be holding a Tricky Tray & Spaghetti & Meatball dinner on February 29 from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets will be available in the Social Quarters.

Any member wishing to donate any new or unused item, including gift certificates for a gift basket would be greatly appreciated. Anyone wanting to donate desserts (baked or bought) to be served after dinner, see the sign-up sheet in the Social Quarters.

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Join our team of trained Forensic Nurses, Advocates and Law Enforcement! Our no cost 40-hour training will certify you to advocate for people who have experienced sexual violence. The training infuses principles of anti-oppression and multiculturalism in every step. Advocates will gain a strong understanding of how racism, oppression, and inequality intersect with sexual violence, which will help them best serve every survivor they interact with in their role.

Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate Advocacy is based on the principle that the individual is the best person to make decisions in their life. Once trained you will be on call to provide crisis intervention, educational information and resources to survivors of sexual violence. All potential advocates encouraged to apply. Bilingual advocates needed. Spring Class 2020 Thursday Nights 6-9pm February 13th - May 14th Toms River, NJ To apply and set up an interview, contact Meghan McAleer at 609-494-1554 or mmcaleer@stfrancislbi .org

Toms River Artists Meeting

TOMS RIVER – On the second Tuesday of each month, TRAC welcomes members and interested artists to join us for our monthly meeting from 7-8 p.m. at 53 Main St. in Toms River. Admission is free. For more information, call Carol Stauffer at 732-604-5761.

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Page 24, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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Polar:

Continued From Page 1 and to get $500,000 total for his 17-year plunge adventure. Laverty said, “When they were young, they were able to participate in some local Special Olympics events. Unfortunately, their physical limitations now prevent them from being part of this wonderful organization. In fact, they’ll be moving into a group home a few months.” He added that for the past 16 years, those who contributed to him “touched me like you can never imagine. You have helped me to reach supporters in all 50 states, and I’ve even received donations from another three countries - Canada, Bermuda and Namibia. Your friendship and support for this cause is unbelievably humbling, and I’ll never be able to thank you enough.” “The 2020 Plunge will be my last, so I’ve set an aggressive personal fundraising goal. If I’m able to achieve that goal, my 17-year total will surpass $500,000. It would also be my highest total since 2014, so it’s most certainly a stretch,” Laverty said adding a half million total would be “an amazing achievement that would be for all of us, because I could never have done this alone. Just think of the outpouring of love and support we have provided for such a deserving group of individuals.” The Polar Penguins lined up for a group photo on the front steps of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. Team Captain

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John Gazis, Brick, said “our team is from all over the state. It started in 2009 with one guy who said he wanted to plunge so I said, I’ll join you and we ended up with three of us.” There were close to 60 Polar Penguins who took the plunge and who have raised a total of around $70,000. “We appreciate the church allowing us to park here and Simon’s Kitchen, for providing us lunch after the plunge,” Gazis said. Jeremy Davis, director of digital marketing and communications for Special Olympics New Jersey said there were 8,000 plungers, which is up from last year, which was around 7,500. “I think what brings people back each year is that: number one it is a good cause, it brings people together; it’s fun, exciting and makes for a nice winter activity.” Seaside Heights Mayor Anthony Vaz said “The borough has been hosting this for a number of years. It is for a great cause and it shows the generosity of those involved and who donate to the plungers. “There are thousands of people who come out to Seaside Heights for it and it is one of the biggest events we host. It comes with a big spirit. In my mind it also helps kick off the spring season,” Vaz said. “We have the Polar Bear Plunge and then we host the Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 7 at noon. Before we know it we’ll be hosting the Easter Egg hunt and the Easter promenade on our boardwalk,” the mayor added.

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Seat:

Continued From Page 1 possession of alcohol on a beach in Sea Bright and paid a fi ne. She is 33 now. Another article noted how Gibbs has 10 moving violations and Richter has 24. A spokesman from Gibbs’ campaign said that voters are going to judge candidates on the issues. “The voters of Burlington and Ocean Counties are going to be able to place in context the dumb mistakes someone made when they were 20 or 21 years old,” said Chris Russell of Checkmate Consulting, working for her campaign. “Kate is not proud of it, but she owned it. Her story of someone who learned from those mistakes and went on to earn her master’s degree, get elected to countywide oﬃce, and become a statewide leader in the building trades are a testament to who she is today.” The competition has become fierce, with both Gibbs and Richter fighting. Meanwhile, Novak has an attack ad against Kim on the radio. “Kate Gibbs was a failed candidate and that was before any news about her criminal record was exposed,” said Tom Bonfonti, former executive director of the Ocean County Republicans. He is speaking on behalf of Richter’s campaign. “When she ran as a candidate for re-election to the Freeholder board in Burlington County, she lost by nearly 10,000 votes to a candidate who had left the race due to accusations of abuse and stalking. When you combine Gibbs’ existing record of taxing and spending with new revelations about her arrests, shoplifting and drug busts, Andy Kim has to be salivating at the potential of facing Kate - and I would not want to be a candidate running below her on the ballot.”

The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 25 There had also been talk that the powers that be in Washington were not happy with local groups endorsing her. Richter spoke at a recent Trump fundraiser in Wildwood. “We know folks in Washington want a candidate with the background and experience to beat Andy Kim and bring this seat back to the Republican column - and only David has the ability to do that,” Bonfonti said. “Voters here in the 3rd District want a leader they can be proud of who will always stand in support of the President, not someone who goes to work every day at a labor union that endorsed Hillary Clinton and donated over $3 million to try and defeat Donald Trump.” Gibbs’ campaign said that the facts don’t support the idea that Washington is upset with her. Russell listed a number of endorsements from such people as House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy. Richter has been accused of “district shopping,” trying to fi nd a district where he can run. He was looking to run in the 2 nd District against Congressman Jeff Van Drew but Van Drew switched from Democrat to Republican. “The only people in D.C. who want (Richter) are the Democrats because they know he’s easy pickings for Andy Kim,” Russell said. Gibbs is deputy director of Engineers Labor-Employer Cooperative, which represents the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825 in providing statewide opportunities between employers, contractors and workers. Richter is the former Chief Executive Oﬃcer of Hill International, a professional services fi rm that provides construction management services. Barnegat Mayor John Novak, an attorney, did not return an email interview by press time. Former Hainesport Mayor Anthony Porto has also announced a bid to run.

Dear Joel

By Joel Markel

Neighbors Who Care… Too Much

Dear Joel, My husband and I have lived in our 55 and over community for the past ten years. Our neighbors who are in their upper 70’s have been our friends since we moved in, welcoming us from day one. In the past year, their health has declined as well as their mobility; they struggle with everyday tasks. My husband and I help as much as we can, providing transportation to doctors, supermarkets, etc. whenever possible. The couple has two grown children, but they both live out of state. We’ve spoken to both about relocating their parents to an assisted living facility, but we haven’t made much headway. In the meantime, we have become somewhat responsible for the couple, a responsibility that is slowly becoming a burden. We love them dearly, but we have our own family to care for. Do you have any suggestions on how to handle this delicate situation? Answer: First let me commend you and your husband for being good neighbors, good friends, and good humans. What you are doing is not easy. I suggest that you and your

husband speak frankly to your neighbors and express your concern for their well-being. Let them know that although you want to help as much as possible, you are not always available. Assure them that you and your husband will help them connect with senior service organizations who can provide information on transportation, meal service, and housing alternatives, as well as investigating what your 55 and over community offers. Your friends may not be completely truthful with their children, so it’s important for you to have direct conversations with them to keep them informed. Don’t hesitate to remind them that while you and your husband care for their parents, you cannot provide the level of care they require daily, and something must be done sooner rather than later. Thank you for writing. Joel Write to joel@preferredcares.com. His radio show, “Preferred Company” airs Monday through Friday from 8 to 10 a.m. on preferredradio.com and 1160 & 1310 WOBM-AM.

If you or anyone else is in need of home health care, call Preferred at 732-840-5566 (800603-CARE (2273). “Home health care with feeling. (“Home Health Care with Feeling”)

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Page 26, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Catnip or coriander 5 Throw in the towel 9 Former “Idol” judge Paula 14 Old music halls 15 Loosen, as laces 16 Author John le __ 17 Out of control 18 Road in old Rome 19 Martial arts-based ﬁtness routine 20 *Old West transport 23 British brew with a red triangle in its logo 24 “Oops, almost forgot” 25 Captain Marvel’s magic word 27 Felt sorry about 29 Workable, as an alternative 32 Good-and bad-dietary substances 35 Consumed

38 Jiffy Lube supply 39 __ F‡il: Irish “stone of destiny” 40 *Trailways, for one 42 Big fuss 43 Pennysaver contents 44 “Family Matters” nerd 45 Kenton of jazz 46 Making a cake, say 48 DVR pioneer 51 Charlatans 54 Shoe polish targets 58 Molecule part 60 Having financial freedom ... and, literally, what the last words of the answers to starred clues comprise 62 Bouquet __: chef’s tasty bundle 64 Retail complex 65 Took a tumble 66 One sent back down the river? 67 “Metamorphoses” poet

68 Russian river 69 Loses on purpose? 70 Nickname for JosŽ 71 A great deal Down 1 “In what way?” 2 Novelist Wharton 3 Race with batons 4 Annoys persistently 5 Pielike brunch serving 6 Golden rule word 7 “Any more bright __?” 8 Olympic symbol 9 Play a part 10 Words to a black sheep 11 *Handsome guy or gorgeous gal 12 Metro regions 13 Many August babies 21 Water in the Seine 22 Place of safety 26 Kindle read, brieﬂy 28 Furniture with a lock, maybe

30 “__ Rose”: “The Music Man” song 31 North Carolina campus 32 Personal trainer’s target 33 Verdi princess 34 *Temporary group for a speciﬁc job 36 23-Across, e.g. 37 Lean 40 Camp bed 41 Impulses 45 Deeply expressive 47 Emphatic denial 49 Wagner princess 50 48-Across ancestor 52 Swab again 53 Avoid, with “off” 55 Sporty ‘80s Pontiac 56 Note equivalent to E 57 Flies off the shelf 58 Like much whiskey 59 Prepare for takeoff 61 Toss of a coin 63 Elected pols

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

GRAFT ANKLE FEWEST WISDOM - WEARING OFF

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 27

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)

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)

Auto For Sale 2008 Chrysler - Pacifica Touring. V6 All power. Four wheel drive. Auto. Leather. 4 new tires. 91k. Senior owner. $5,900. 848-226-2474. (12)

Items For Sale Power Loveseat - With console and power rocker recliner. 1 year old. $1500.00 Call 201-390-2573 (12) Whirlpool Washer/ Gas Dryer Excellent condition. Not used in last 10 years. You must up. $100 each. 732-477-1849. (10)

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) 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)

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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)

Micromedia Publications is looking for part-time creative writers to craft colorful and informative business and professional profiles for our advertisers. This is an excellent opportunity for those with excellent writing skills to earn supplemental income or to build their portfolios in a variety of fields such as news or advertising. Submit your resume and writing samples to agradzki@jerseyshoreonline.com. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE! (t/n)

ASE Certified Master Auto & Truck Technician - Available to do repairs. Brakes, Tune ups, Check Engine Light on, Etc. 848-237-0045 best prices. Unbeatable work. (11)

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)

Cheap Painting Done Rite Free estimates. Fully insured. 38 years experience. 732-506-7787 cell 646-643-7678. (37)

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)

At Home Companion - Dementia and Hospice Experienced, Cooking, Shopping, Transportation. Enjoy Peace of Mind! 732-278-3770 JoAnn. (14)

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)

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) Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n) 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) Receptionist Part Time - Send resumes via email to hr@magnoliaal. com or fax to 732-557-6501. Apply online at Magnoliaal.com or in person at Magnolia Gardens. 1935 Route 9, Toms River. 732-557-6500. (14) 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) Nurse Needed - Send resumes via email to hr@magnoliaal.com or fax to 732-557-6501. Apply online at Magnoliaal.com or in person at Magnolia Gardens. 1935 Route 9, Toms River. 732-557-6500. (14) Laundry Assistant Part Time - Send resumes via email to hr@magnoliaal. com or fax to 732-557-6501. Apply online at Magnoliaal.com or in person at Magnolia Gardens. 1935 Route 9, Toms River. 732-557-6500. (14) Kitchen/Wait Staff - Apply online at Magnoliaal.com or in person at Magnolia Gardens. 1935 Route 9, Toms River. 732-557-6500. (14)

C.H.H.A. - Weekends. Send resumes via email to hr@magnoliaal.com or fax to 732-557-6501. Apply online at Magnoliaal.com or in person at Magnolia Gardens. 1935 Route 9, Toms River. 732-557-6500. (14) 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)

Services 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) 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) Private Home Health Care - Companion for you. I have drivers license, car. I have great references, experience. 973-204-0108. (11) 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) Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) 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) 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) Paint Your Rooms - Fast Clean Neat, Starting At $50. Per Room. Wallpaper Removal, Exteriors, Power Washing Call 732-864-6396 Leave Voicemail. (4)

Need A Ride - Senior discounts. Airports: NEW, PHIL, AC, Trenton. Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227. (4) 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)

House Painting - Interior only. Wa l l p a p e r r e m o v a l , k i t c h e n cabinet painting. Nice job. Not a cheap job. Licensed and insured, 732-929-4399. (14)

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)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

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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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Page 28, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 29

Residents Offered Defensive Driving Course OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Engineer John N. Ernst has announced defensive driving course classes. A one-day class will be offered on March 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Board of Social Services, 1027 Hooper Avenue building 7, Toms River. To register, call 732-929-21300. A two-day class (two 3-hour sessions) on March 18 and 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, 600

Local Church Hosts Mom’s Group PINE BEACH – Pine Beach Chapel is holding Mom’s café group. Breakfast will be served along with the appearance of a few surprise guests. The Mom’s café group will meet on February 29 at 9:30 a.m. at Pine Beach Chapel, 401 Hillside Ave, Pine Beach. For more information about group meetings, email momscafepbc@gmail.com or momscafe@zoho.com.

Local Church Hosts Indoor Flea Market

TOMS RIVER – St. Stephen Ukrainian Catholic Church will be having an indoor flea market on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many vendors and hot ethnic foods will be available. Handicapped accessible, free admission, free parking. Vendors call 732-255-6549.

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River Avenue, Lakewood. (Participants must attend both sessions to receive full credit). To register, call 1-888-724-7123. Each student must complete the six-hour course. Ocean County Freeholder John P. Kelly indicated that Ocean County continues to offer the course to residents for $18, to be paid as follows: $8 payable by check or

money order to the County of Ocean, and $10 payable by money order only to New Jersey State Safety Council (processing fee, personal checks will not be accepted). For those who need a two-point reduction, the processing fee will cover this. No extra charge involved. Materials will be provided by the county as well as the instructor. Bring

a valid driver’s license and a pen with you. Freeholder Kelly indicated that participants may obtain a 5 percent insurance discount as required by State law, by contacting your insurance company. For more information, contact the Ocean County Engineering Department at 732929-2130.

Page 30, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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Budget:

Continued From Page 1 The state administers a formula to equalize its impact. The amount to be raised by taxation is $361,536,722. The total budget represents an increase of $18.8 million from last year. Freeholder Jack Kelly, the liaison of finances for the county oversaw the development of the budget which was prepared by the county’s financial staff and included input from each Freeholder on the board. “This is the second budget I have overseen with my colleagues and our county staff and it’s not an easy process,” he said. Kelly noted that the budget was made available for viewing on the county website. This year’s tax rate was reduced by a half a cent which marked the fourth consecutive year that the tax rate has gone down. “This ties in to an important pledge we made to our citizens following Superstorm Sandy in October of 2012. That storm resulted in a staggering loss of property values totaling more than $11 billion. This board promised then and now as we see the tax ratables grow we will continue to reduce the county tax rate,” he said. The ratable base is the total valuation of all county property. It’s all the buildings and all the land added together. It increases as buildings are developed. “This year our ratable tax rate stands at $107 billion which is $4 billion more than last year’s total of $103 billion. We anticipate that growth will continue in the future and we truly believe that next year for the first time, since 2009 we will completely replace all the loss of Hurricane Sandy and probably a little more. I can say with some confidence that the tax rate in Ocean County will continue to go down,” Kelly said. The budget was said to feature a “very healthy surplus while using $36.8 million this year we have left appropriate reserves for future budgets,” Kelly added, saying a strong surplus is key in maintaining Ocean County’s AAA bond rating which allows the county to secure historically low interest

The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020, Page 31 rates on its debt service. This year the county will be saving $2 million in debt service due to the rating and refunding bonds. Kelly explained that refunding bonds is no different than refinancing a home mortgage at a better interest rate. “This budget funds all of our core and essential programs that we provide to the over 600,000 people that call Ocean County home. Like all our budgets, we will continue to meet the required 2% state mandated spending cap.” Around $129 million has been put aside this year to finance 29 construction projects that are slated to be finished over the next three years. They include the building of a new Ocean County Board of Social Services complex in Toms River in the amount of $47.1 million, the replacement of the Colonial Drive South Bridge and North Bridge in Manchester at a price tag of $5 million and construction of T-shaped hangars at the Robert J. Miller Airpark in Berkeley Township at $3 million. Waretown will also see the $2 million renovation of Wells Mills Nature Center. The budget earmarks $74.3 million for law enforcement in the county, $25.5 million to maintain roads and bridges in the county and $20. 2 million to be used for social activities that will see $39.2 million expected to be added by the state and federal governments. Board members noted that $19.6 million would go the Ocean County Vocational Technical School district, $16 million for Ocean County College and $7 million for parks and recreation. As Ocean County has the largest senior population in the state, it was noted that $3.5 million would go toward senior services, with an $4.2 million more expected from the state and federal governments. The board voted unanimously to approve the budget’s introduction. The Board’s March 18 meeting, which will include a public hearing and adoption of the budget, will start at 4 p.m. and will be held in the first-floor meeting room of the Ocean County Administration Building at 101 Hooper Ave. Toms River.

Local Church Holds Craft Fair

TOMS RIVER – East Dover Baptist Church is holding a Leap Year craft and vendor fair. Come out and support small businesses while fi nding many treasures from talented artisans and well-known vendors.

Enjoy some refreshments and baked goods from the church table and Latin Bites Food Truck. The craft and vendor fair will be on February 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at East Dover Baptist Church, 974 Bay Ave.

In Memorium LAITER MORRIS On February 20, 2020. Husband of Rose (nee Korcarz). Father of Lisa (Merrill) Zoldan and Allen (Joyce) Laiter. Brother of Brenda Snyder (the late Jay Snyder) and Aron (Ora) Leshem. Grandfather of Corey, Robin, Jessica, Heather and David. Funeral Services were held Sunday Feb. 23. Contributions in his memory may be made to Hadassah, www.hadassah.org. www.goldsteinsfuneral.com GOLDSTEINS’ ROSENBERG’S RAPHAEL-SACKS

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What Will Happen To My Lymph Nodes, My Armpit And My Arm? Mary had some time to digest the breast cancer diagnosis she certainly did not want to hear, but also wasn’t one hundred percent surprised when it was confirmed. Her family had a history of breast cancer and a favorite aunt, of course, had a terrible time recovering from surgery and treatment many years ago. What is Lymphedema? What Mary’s aunt experienced years ago is called lymphedema. Immediately after surgery, it’s common to experience some swelling or tingling that can affect the arm, however the symptoms should resolve very quickly. That is in a matter of a few days. If lymphedema does occur, by radical axillary surgery, it can vary from mild swelling and a bit of heaviness to an arm that is significantly swollen. In addition to extensive lymph node surgery, obesity is a major factor for lymphedema with morbidly obese women at greater risk. While lymphedema is not common, it is a common concern for all women, particularly when lymph nodes are removed. When lymph nodes are removed, the lymph vessels that carry the lymph fluid away from the arm can be disrupted and lymph fluid then collects in the arm to cause swelling. Fortunately, advancements in the treatment of most types of breast cancers have lowered the occurrence of lymphedema dramatically by lowering the number of lymph nodes that need to be removed. In the past, it used to common practice to perform an “axillary lymph node dissection” during breast cancer surgery to remove all the lymph nodes, but up to forty percent of women would develop Lymphedema with this procedure. What can be done to reduce the risk of lymphedema? So how can we reduce lymphedema while not sacrificing the probability of eradicating the cancer? In steps the Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy. Over the past fifteen years, this has become the recommended procedure for evaluating cancer in the lymph nodes rather than the complete axillary lymph node removal. The sentinel lymph node, which is the key lymph node or the first lymph node that will receive the cancer cells should they spread out of the breast to the lymph nodes. And if only this lymph node is removed, it lowers the risk of lymphedema from forty percent to virtually zero, while still providing, in today’s day and age, a more intense analysis of it, accurate information of the degree of breast cancer in the axilla or under the arm. If the sentinel lymph node detects cancer cells, they are treated with radiation rather than more surgery. The beauty of this is that the effectiveness to which radiation controls the cancer and the risk of recurrence is the same as with radical surgical removal but with almost no risk. Now knowing that there were factors here within her control to avoid lymphedema and the surgical procedures for breast cancer had advanced beyond complete lymph node removal, our patient Mary is much more optimistic about her surgery with no arm swelling. Public Service Information taken from written studies and published data.

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Page 32, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Girl Scouts Of The Jersey Shore Announces Annual Gala

FARMINGDALE – Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore will host its annual Women of Distinction & Community Partners Gala on Friday, March 20, at Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club in Farmingdale. A distinguished group of Jersey Shore leaders and a community-minded business will be honored at the event, which will take place from 6-11 p.m. The annual gala raises vital funds that enable girls in Monmouth and Ocean counties to access Girl Scout programs and experiences, which empower them to become women of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. The 2020 gala honorees are: Women of Distinction: • Anne M. Davis, an attorney with oﬃces in Brick • Christine Hanlon, Monmouth County clerk • Frances Keane, vice president of human resources, CentraState Healthcare Systems and chairwoman of the Girl Scouts Board of Directors • Dana Lancellotti, director of business development and tourism, Ocean County • Dr. Janice Warner, interim provost, Georgian Court University

Community Partner: • Lakewood BlueClaws, an aﬃliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, and long-time supporter of Girl Scouts Man Enough to be a Girl Scout Member of the Year: • Wayne Boatwright, vice president of diversity and inclusion, Hackensack Meridian Health Girls Scouts is honored to have Tom Hayes and Teri O’Connor return as gala co-chairs. Hayes serves as director of consumer and community relations at New Jersey Natural Gas and O’Connor is county administrator for Monmouth County and first vice chairperson of the Girl Scouts Board of Directors. Individual gala tickets are $225 and include a cocktail reception, dinner, music, gift auctions and raﬄe, plus introductions of gala honorees from Girl Scouts who have earned the Gold Award and those on their way to achieving this top Girl Scout honor. Tickets, sponsorships and ads for the event journal may be purchased online at gsfun. org/gala. For more information about opportunities to support the event, including auction donations, call 800-785-2090 or e-mail gala@ jerseyshoregirlscouts.org.

Quilters Club Host Quilt Show

TOMS RIVER – The Beachplum Quilters of the Jersey Shore presents “Quilts In Full Bloom” 2020 quilt show and sale. Over 100 NQA judged member quilts on display. The event will take place on April 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on April 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Toms River Elks Lodge

#1875, 600 Washington Street. Tickets are $8 per person and include vendors, demos, appraisals, county store, baskets and door prizes. For more information, visit BeachplumQuilters.org or email BeachplumQuilters@ gmailcom.

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Page 33, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Annual Conference

TOMS RIVER – The Greater Toms River Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 3nd Annual Ocean County Nonprofit Symposium Event co-sponsored by the Grunin Foundation and TD Bank on April 1 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, Toms River. The presenters on this panel will share with you an abundance of experience, unflappable dedication to their cause, and unwavering hope on how they are using social enterprise to transform communities. Facilitator: Edward LaPorte, Executive Director, New Jersey Oﬃce of Faith Based Initiative. Panelists: Barbara Heisler, CEO, Glass Roots; Paul L. McEvily, Executive Director, Interfaith Neighbors; Patricia P. Nolan, Sales & Marketing Coordinator, The Arc Ocean County Chapter, Arc Employment Center. There is a favorite saying in management literature that “culture eats strategy for breakfast”. In the case of building a more diverse board, we couldn’t agree more. There is an increasing priority to build boards that more closely resemble the communities we serve. So, where do you start? Without a board culture that allows new voices to feel welcome and empowered, our strategies

for building board diversity are just optics. This session will focus on how to assess our board culture-formally and informally-and to build a more inclusive culture. Speakers: Keith Timko, Executive Director, Support Center for Nonprofit Management and Yvette Murry, President/COO, YRM Consulting Group, LLC. Conscious consumerism isn’t a new concept; however, the scope of its influence has significantly increased with the rise of social media & informed shoppers who make decisions based on shared values. Opportunities to develop long-term, mutually beneficial & purpose driven authentic relationships. This session will focus on a candid discussion of cause-related marketing its characteristics and how organizations can have a positive social impact while generating financial returns. Facilitator: Danielle Corso, Vice-Chair of Community Affairs, David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation. Panelists: Stephen Carpitella, Mortgage Professional, Equity Prime and Dan Mueller, Financial Services Professional, NY Life. Tickets are $60 and include a full breakfast. For additional information and to register, visit tomsriverchamber.com/all-events

POAC Hosts Adult Special Needs Yoga

TOMS RIVER – The POAC Autism Services and the Toms River Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Developmental Disabilities will be offering free yoga sessions. The program is for young adults ages 18 and up. Family members and siblings are welcome to join. You do not have to be a resident of Toms River to attend. Be sure

to wear comfortable clothes. Please bring a yoga mat or towel. Sessions will be taking place at the Toms River Elks Lodge #1875 600 Washington St, Toms River on the following dates: March 3, all from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Register online at poac.net/events/ free-adult-special-needs-yoga

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Flight of Three Cups of Homemade Soup • Full Pot of Tea PrincessVictoria’s Tea $25(Tea for Children Under 10): A Variety of Specialty Children’s Tea Sandwiches • Chocolate Chip Scone Delightful Desserts • Full Pot of Tea Queen Alexa’s Decadent Tea $34: Homemade Scone A Variety of Tea Sandwiches • Plate of Desserts • Full Pot of Tea

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A beautiful presentation of a ﬁve-courseVictorian Afternoon Tea including: Tea Cup of Soup Petite Salad • Tiered Collection of our Famous Scones Variety of Tea Sandwiches • Plate Full of Desserts • Full Pot of Tea

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Page 34, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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BUSINESS PROFILE DeGRAFF FUNERAL HOME Compassionate • Respectful • Flexible

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home, Inc. 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst, N.J. 08733 732-657-7868 Sherry T. DeGraff, Mgr. N.J. No. 3921 degrafffuneralhome@msn.com

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home is family owned and operated. Founded by Donald & Wanda DeGraff in 1979 in historic downtown Lakehurst. The building itself has a funeral history dating back to the early 1900’s. “Our father was the type of person who was so very compassionate and caring,” said Sherry DeGraff, Manager. “He was an entrepreneur, involved in a number of businesses, but his love was always for the funeral industry.” DeGraff’s mother Wanda is still alive and “still our boss, even if she won’t admit it,” said DeGraff, and her father, Donald passed away in 2004. Growing up with the funeral business surrounding her, DeGraff said she learned from an early age how to treat customers in their time of need. “You handle people in the same way you would want your own family handled, “said DeGraff. “You have to be a good listener, have a lot of compassion and be very flexible. While the core values – compassion, respect and flexibility – have not changed for the DeGraff family, the trends in the funeral business have. Years back, cremations were rare and some religious affiliations did not hold them in high favor. In 1990 the DeGraff family saw the future trends were leaning toward cremation, as a result, their daughter Sherry opened DeGraff Cremation Service offering a wide variety of cremation service options. The move towards more cremation represents the largest shift in the funeral industry. In fact, many consumers believe the cremation

itself is performed at the individual funeral home or cremation service they hired. This is not correct. Crematories are owned by cemeteries. Most people are surprised when they hear that. Many people are unaware that cremation must be authorized by a spouse or blood kin under New Jersey State Law. This can cause undue stress for people who do not have a spouse or family. In 2004, New Jersey law provides for the des- DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home has been family-owned and operated at 119 Union Avenue, ignation of an individual Lakehurst since 1979. Visit www.degrafffuneralhome.com or call 732-657-7868. to control the funeral or cremation of another person regard- services themselves have evolved decisions have been made, sparing less of whether the named person is over the years. While the typical uncertainty and confusion at a time related by marriage or blood. People viewing, church service and burial when emotional stress may make in relationships involving unmarried schedule is still largely followed by decisions difficult. Although pre-arco-habitants, or just close personal many, other families choose what is ranging might sound morbid, it isn’t. friends may find this provision benefi- known as “celebration of life” to re- It is part of sensible estate planning. cial. This designated person is called focus mourning one’s death towards Upon your passing, the truth is that a “Funeral Representative” and must celebrating one’s full life and its im- most people don’t have any idea how be named as such in a will. With this pact on others. Especially in troubled to get started, what they should know designation, they can bypass any economic times, the cost factor of a or who they can turn to. Pre-planning blood kin and can authorize crema- funeral is a concern for many families. your funeral can significantly minimize tion and control the funeral. Choosing Cremation and traditional funeral ser- the many stresses and pressures that cremation for final disposition in lieu vices are often comparable in price, accompany the grieving process of of traditional burial does not change through numerous options such as losing a loved one. A properly strucservice options for a family. In addition viewings, final disposition and other tured preplan can not only ensure that to cremation, the services can still in- factors that can increase or reduce your loved ones know what to do, but clude a traditional viewing, memorial the overall cost of a funeral. DeGraff can also make sure your bequests are service at the funeral home or church said, “Our prices are very affordable efficiently implemented. By reducing or graveside services when or if the because we’re still an old-fashioned many of the obvious family pressures, cremains are placed in a cemetery. funeral home.” DeGraff Lakehurst this provides some extra time for them Additionally, said DeGraff, the funeral Funeral Home offer pre-arrangement to work through some of the other services. Although nobody likes to struggles such as dealing with grief think or talk about dying, it is one of the and loss, notifying your loved ones, facts of life we all must eventually face. designing your obituary, writing a The sad truth is, thousands of people eulogy and creating the best possible die (whether expected or unexpect- way to celebrate and memorialize edly) each year without the proper your life. “I think the personalization end- of-life plan in place. Making of a funeral is important,” said Defuneral arrangements at the time of Graff. “We’re willing to work with just loss is extremely difficult for those about anything that a family wants left behind. Pre-arranging ensures to do, even if they think it might be that your family and funeral director away from tradition. We can make it know exactly what kind of funeral you happen.” want. Families tend to take comfort at DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home is the time of death, simply from know- located at 119 Union Avenue, Lakeing their loved one’s funeral reflects hurst. If you would like more informatheir wishes. When the funeral and tion, please call our dedicated staff sometimes even payment, have been at 732-657-7868 or you may visit our arranged in advance, most of the website at degrafffuneralhome.com

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Page 35, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of feb 29 - mar 6 By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your warm, friendly overtures can delight some people but might cause others to think you are being insincere. You may receive compliments and publicity in the early part of the week. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You can rock in the role of the brilliant entrepreneur. Sweeten business deals by using smart strategies paired with a pleasant attitude as the week flies by. If you need to be tough on the outside, remain soft-hearted inside. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The calm voice of reason should overcome agitation. Loved ones could admire little things or seem overly sentimental. In the upcoming week, friends might support your efforts to renovate or upgrade your home. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Find innovative ways to get other people involved in your plans. You may be someone who can reach goals by mixing with numerous people and obtaining their advice. Apply your knowledge in the week to come. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Be on the alert. If you are sensitive to mood swings, you will feel a constructive shift. Your financial situation may undergo a positive change if you allow the latest technology to benefit you in the upcoming week. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A unique opportunity may change your destiny. You might meet someone who can give you the courage to change old habits that have held you back. You can shine in social situations and rise above the ordinary in the upcoming week.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Handle a confusing situation with dignity and diplomacy. Someone may prove their loyalty in the week ahead, although you might not realize it at the time. Every promise you keep is a credit to your character. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Cooperate, whether as a co-worker or a customer. Consider partnering with others to improve your career or business prospects in the week ahead. Your activities can be focused on romance and not just moneymaking. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Whether you are building a nest egg or building lasting bonds with people, patience is more important than instant gratification. Avoid wasting time or money this week trying to impress friends. Focus on ideas and solutions. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You will do your best this week if you spend time thinking before acting. The world may see you as unyielding, but deep down you are generous in fulfilling requests from people you care about. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be more confident in your ability to do your job well. You can be both businesslike and approachable when there is a task to perform. Listen to a wide range of ideas and people as the week passes by. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The New Moon might mean a new start in the way you see yourself. Be willing to share your dreams with others in the week ahead, and they might help you make them happen. Focus on keeping your promises..

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wolfgang puck’s kitchen

Spring Ahead With Vegetarian Chili By Wolfgang Puck “Spring ahead! Fall back!” That’s the simple memory device we’ve all been taught to remember which way to reset our clocks when daylight saving time begins (on the second Sunday in March) or ends (on the first Sunday in November). The practice aims to give people an extra hour of sunlight after their working days during springtime and summer. I always think of daylight saving time’s arrival as a sign that the bounty of spring, beginning March 19, will soon be filling up the stalls in farmers’ markets. Yet, I’m also aware that we’re still in the middle of winter, and bitter cold spells and even snow can still suddenly come in early March - something I’ve been well aware of ever since my two oldest sons chose to pursue their university educations in Massachusetts and upstate New York. So at this time of year, I like to think about preparing dishes that still have the power to warm us up and comfort us if the weather turns chilly, yet still hold hints of the sunnier, warmer, longer days soon to come. And today I’d like to share that exact type of dish in my recipe for vegetarian three-bean and quinoa chili. Any bean stew such as this one is, of course, a perfect choice to cook when the weather is threatening outside. It calls for long, gentle stovetop simmering, which transforms the kitchen into a warming, welcoming place and fills the entire house with rich aromas. The chile peppers that season the stew add their own uniquely warm flavor to the mixture; though I quickly have to add that this recipe isn’t overly spicy, and you can certainly cut back on the chile quantities if you prefer milder results. The beans themselves are a perfect example of the kind of stick-to-your-ribs food that will keep you feeling warm and satisfied for hours. And the quinoa, an ancient Incan grain that has become widely available and popular in recent years, adds more sustenance, being higher in protein and dietary fiber than brown rice. But what about spring flavors? Look first to the fact that this is a vegetarian recipe, so it will very likely taste to you - and rest in your stomach - far lighter than traditional meaty versions of the dish. Lighter, brighter elements of the dish, including a generous amount of fresh lime juice and garnishes such as tomato salsa, sliced avocado, green onion and cilantro, also evoke warmer months. The result is a surprisingly fresh-tasting, healthy chili that is not only a perfect way to welcome spring but also an ideal dish to enjoy as you start thinking of getting into shape for swimsuit season, which is just months away. VEGETARIAN THREE-BEAN AND QUINOA CHILI Serves 8 to 10 1 pound (500 g) dried white beans 1 pound (500 g) dried black beans 1 pound (500 g) pinto beans

3 dried guajillo chiles 1/2 cup (125 mL) extra-virgin olive oil 1 cup (250 mL) finely diced yellow onion 2 tablespoons minced garlic 2 tablespoons ground cumin 2 tablespoons pure chile powder 1 cup (250 mL) tomato paste 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) canned crushed tomatoes 3 tablespoons kosher salt, plus more to taste 1 1/2 gallons (5.75 L) vegetable stock 1 1/2 pounds (750 g) quinoa 2 jalapeno chiles, halved, stemmed, seeded and deveined, and minced 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 3 ripe Hass avocados, halved, pitted, peeled and sliced, for garnish 1 cup (250 mL) sour cream, for garnish 1 cup (250 mL) chopped green onion, for garnish 1 cup (250 mL) chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish 1 cup (250 mL) prepared tomato salsa, for garnish 3/4 cup (185 mL) thinly sliced fresh jalapeno chiles, or pickled jalapenos, for garnish The night before you cook, pick through each batch of beans, removing any debris or misshapen beans. Rinse the beans put into separate large bowls, and add cold water to cover by at least 2 inches (5 cm). Leave to soak overnight, adding water as needed to keep the beans covered. The next day, put the guajillo chiles in a bowl, add enough hot water to cover, and leave to soak for 20 minutes. Drain. Carefully slit open the guajillos, and remove the seeds. Put the guajillos and a little soaking liquid in a blender, and puree to a paste. Transfer to a bowl, and set aside. Drain the beans, and set aside. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and onion, and saute, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and saute briefly until fragrant. Stir in the cumin and chile powder. Stir in the tomato paste, and saute, stirring until it darkens slightly, about 30 seconds. Add the drained soaked beans. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, with their juices, the guajillo puree, salt, and enough vegetable stock to submerge the beans completely. Cover the pot securely and cook, adjusting the heat to maintain a simmer, until the beans are cooked through and tender but still firm and whole, 20 to 30 minutes. Stir in the quinoa, cover, and cook until tender, 5 to 7 minutes, adding more stock if needed. Stir in the minced jalapenos, lime juice and maple syrup. Simmer, uncovered, over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring often. Taste and, if needed, add a little more salt. Arrange the avocado, sour cream, green onion, cilantro, salsa and sliced fresh or pickled jalapenos in bowls to serve as garnishes. Ladle the chili into individual serving bowls, inviting guests to garnish their servings to taste.

(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 36, The Toms River Times, February 29, 2020

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