2022-09-24 - The Manchester Times

In Week’sThisEdition

TimesMANCHESTER

DISTRICTS RECEIVE PRESCHOOL EXPANSION AID

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY – Manchester, Plumsted and Eagleswood are three of the 27 school districts that will receive preschool expansion aid to expand access to high-quality preschool programs.

Governor Phil Murphy and the Department of Education recently announced that more than $26 million was allotted in the 2022-2023 school year.

The funding was allocated in the FY2023 Budget and ensures that nearly 2,150 additional threeand four-year-old children will have access to a preschool classroom by increasing New Jersey’s preschool seats to nearly 70,000.

Locally, only three Ocean County districts received aid. They are:

• Eagleswood - $527,448

Neighbors Of Proposed Park Worry About Traffic

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

Traffic was a big con-

cern of residents at a forum regarding a proposed Ocean County park located at 3623 Ridgeway Road. The park will occupy land on

• Manchester - $3,076,056

• Plumsted - $700,648

“We know that providing children with access to preschool programs creates short and long term educational and economic benefits for families,” Murphy said. “When we invest in preschool education, we also invest in our youth

(Preschool - See Page 7)

Candidates Spar Over Hours Of Mayor’s Aide

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – A few awkward moments punctuated what was a rather slow-moving Township Council meeting last week when mayoral contender Robert Arace accused the mayor’s confidential aide of clocking into work while not on township property.

Arace directed his questions toward Mayor Robert Hudak at the close of the September 12 meeting noting that Jesse Estlow had not been on municipal complex property when he utilized a township app to clock in for work.

Business Administrator Brandon Umba interrupted the mayor’s response during the session saying such commentary was inappropriate until a Rice notice involving the employee was issued.

both sides of Ridgeway Boulevard, spanning

(Park - See Page 4)

Base Expands Solar, Energy Saving Projects

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST – The Joint Base (JBMDL) and the fi rm Ameresco recently announced a new partnership to complete a $140 million infrastructure and energy resilience project.

a battery energy storage system, microgrid controls and 90,000 smart LED light fixture

ergy resilience project.

As part of the federal government’s Climate Smart Building Initiative, Ameresco will install a solar facility,

This project is one of Ameresco’s largest federal solar projects and the overall renewable solutions will ensure that the military base will have uninterrupted access to power to maintain critical opera-

tions and generate more than $4.7 million in annual energy savings.

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Energy executed a comprehensive $92 million second phase designed to add more onsite solar power, energy efficiency measures, and infrastructure upgrades to an initial $48 million task order issued in

2021 for on-site solar generation.Theproject will both support JBMDL’s goals to enhance their mission through energy assurance and advance the Climate Smart Building Initiative. This is a federal government program, announced earlier this month, focused on leveraging energy per-

formance contracting to achieve emission reduction and accelerate the clean energy transition.Ameresco has served as an energy services provider to JBMDL for more than 10 years, completing an initial ESPC project at the base in 2012 and supporting operations and

(Base - See Page 7)

He further explained to The Manchester Times that “a public body is required to send out a Rice notice any time it has placed on its agenda any matters involving the employment, appointment, termination of employment, terms and conditions of employment, evaluation of the performance of, promotion, or disciplining of any specific prospective public officer or employee or current public officer or employee employed or appointed by the public body.”

Citing the regulations, Umba said, “this also goes for any matter that is brought to the public body in a meeting.” The public body cannot comment because the employee has not been issued a RICE notice.

Arace released the following statement a few days after the council meeting accusing the mayor of “willful ignorance in the face of

(Candidates - See Page 5)

–Photos By Bob Vosseller

Ocean County Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Mary Jane Bavais holds a map as Ridgeway Park Project Director Joseph Pirozek shows park plans to residents.

Park:Continued From Page 1

Ridgeway Road from Route 547 (South Hope Chapel Road) to the railroad tracks.

The forum was held at the township branch of the Ocean County Library and hosted by Ocean County Parks Department/ Ridgeway Project Director Joseph Pirozek and Ocean County Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Mary Jane Bavais. They spoke to around 50 residents that evening who were seeking details on the project.

Bavais explained that the forum would address two points, “the administrative transfer of park land from the township of Manchester to the county of Ocean and the change in purpose from preserved land to active recreation. Transcripts of this will be sent to the state of New Jersey. We’re here to listen to your comments.”

Pirozek gave a brief description of the property which runs “roughly 260 acres of which we plan to develop 30 acres so a small footprint based on Pinelands (Commission) rules. We are doing our wetland studies now for our permits for the Pinelands Commission.”Amongthe residents who posed questions was Frank Scancarella who lives in the Riverpointe 55+ Adult Community between Ridgeway Boulevard and South Chapel Road.

He noted “there are over 1,000 residents, most over the age of 55, living at Riverpointe and the safety of these residents is at stake.”

He previously expressed to The Manchester Times that “most of the residents

are very active and do a lot of walking, running and bike riding. Many use Ridgeway Boulevard for this purpose. Ever since the County Maintenance Garage opened for commercial traffic a few years ago the number of cars and large trucks traveling at speeds well above the posted speed limit has made this road a death trap. There are no sidewalks or even a walking path on this road and the walkers/bikers are using the three-inch wide, at best, shoulder of the road to walk/bike/run on. It is just a matter of time before there is a catastrophic occurrence, either a serious injury or God forbid a death from being hit by a vehicle.”

Scancarella also noted that “there are no street lights on this road and it is pitch black dark at night. There are numerous instances of cars drag racing on this street.”

“To me this is a lawsuit waiting to happen,” he said during the forum. He also told The Manchester Times that he had reached out to the County Commissioners office “a few months ago regarding the possible installation of sidewalks/walking path and also the feasibility of installing solar powered street lights to the utility poles and was told this is a municipal road, not a county road and therefore I had to take it up with the town.”

Scancarella said, “I have gotten nowhere with them either. It’s a municipal road traveling right through the middle of county property.”JerryPotts was another Riverpointe resident who spoke. “My property backs up right to the woods. I’m wondering why the passive recreation area backs up to Ocean County where they maintain their trucks

and so forth and the active part backs up to Riverpointe?”Heexplained, “the problem with that is that it will put a lot of pressure on the animals to come into our area. Plus I’m sure you’ll be putting rest rooms there that will draw the homeless in.”

Present in the audience were Council President Joan Brush and Councilman James Vaccaro who brought up their recommendations for the project.

Vaccaro asked about the possibility of adding a dog park which was initially proposed. “It would be an asset to the community,” heResidentsaid. Karen Pitzner said the addition of the dog park might be better than the inclusion of a spray park that would require water that would come from Manchester utilities.

Jeff Heilerun asked if the park would run south of the Ridgeway branch or if it would extend to the other side of a brook. He also asked if the Pinelands Commission has approved it to which he was told that was in process and that it was in a natural reserve.

“My concern is if this park goes through that none of the access to the park will be from Ridgeway Boulevard - it will only be from Ridgeway Road so there would be no incentive to take Ridgeway Boulevard to get to the park,” he added.

Sandra Skowronski brought up an issue that would be repeated throughout the night which was entrance and exit to the park. “Hopefully it will only be accessible from Route 571 or 547 because traffic on Ridgeway Boulevard is very heavy with the Ocean County Garage and the cut through

from Route 70 to 571.”

Many attendees were not pleased to hear that Ridgeway Boulevard was the only entrance point planned for the park. Other residents expressed concerns about the potential for illegal dumping in the park. Still others brought up lighting and were told that as the park would close at dusk there would not be utility lights installed.

Pirozek told the audience that endangered plant species had been discovered on the property and this played a role in where things were positioned in the plan. He brought out a map to show to the audience to explain the placement better.

Numerous attendees said that the map should have been made available along with some explanatory information as a handout or present on a website in preparation for the night’s Manchesterforum.Environmental Commissioner Karen Argenti invited the speakers to attend their September 27 Commission meeting as an added means to provide information to residents and those beyond Manchester. While some attendees voiced excitement for the addition of a new park facility in the western end of Ocean County, others questioned the need for it and whether a feasibility study had been made to determine if such a park would be well utilized.

Resident Robert Arace noted that were the park not to go forward it would remain in its current state. He also questioned the timeline as to when Manchester Township and Ocean County began talks about the project which has been in the talking stages for a few years.

Continued From Page 1

highly inappropriate and unethical activity by one of Mayor Hudak’s patronage hires at town hall. It has recently become public knowledge that Mayor Hudak’s aide has been clocking into work while offsite in locations as far away as Pennsylvania.

“When confronted with this information at the most recent township meeting, Mayor Hudak simply responded that, ‘several people do that.’ The mayor’s admission that multiple employees are abusing the taxpayers by clocking into work while not performing their respective duties is shocking, and the mayor’s lack of action to reprimand the offending employees makes him negligent in his responsibilities to the township and the voters who elected him,” AraceAracesaid.added, “the majority of our township employees are honest, dedicated workers who follow the rules and perform their duties according to the law. However, I fi nd it unacceptable that a select few of the mayor’s patronage hires are allowed to game the system and defraud the people of Manchester with the Mayor’s approval.”

“If these reports are proven to be true, I am calling for the Mayor’s Confidential Aide’s immediate termination and a criminal referral to the prosecutor’s office for further investigation.” Arace said.

Prior to this, Estlow was a congressional aide. He was formerly the executive director of the Burlington County GOP but stepped down when he took this job.

According to township records, his salary is $61,800 or $33.96 an hour.

“The app referred to is the Township’s time and attendance system used to track an employee’s time. The app is used by employees who might be in the field when they are starting or completing work for the day but are not present at their work station or while during Covid they could clock in from home if they were working from home. However, for the most part employees use an ID card system that you had referenced that the County utilizes,” Umba explained.

The Business Administrator told The Manchester Times that since Estlow is the Mayor’s Confidential Aide, “he does not have an individual contract with the Township nor is he represented under a union contract. His employment with the township is subject to the mayor and runs with the term of the mayor.”

“If a new Mayor is elected, then that person would need to decide if they wish to retain him in that position and if not, his employment would be eliminated, that is unless he was reassigned to a different position within the Township,” Umba added.Umba

said the terms of Estlow’s employment were set out in his offer letter, which stated that he is a salaried employee and his established hours were made at 35 hours a week, with a half hour unpaid lunch each day. He would not be entitled to overtime for any work over 35 hours a week, as he was strictly salaried.

“Since his employment is subject to at-

tending events with the mayor or on the mayor’s behalf, in order to get information out to the public from the mayor’s office, there are times when he is in the field at the beginning and close of his work day,” UmbaUmbaadded.said Estlow, “does not have set hours per say, however it is noted that absent events or project deadline his working hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. In reviewing the employee’s time cards, he has worked in excess of 35 hours most work weeks due to his attendance with the mayor or on the mayor’s behalf to events.

“To further clarify, there has only been three pay periods since Mr. Estlow has been employed with the Township where he worked his minimum hour requirement

for a two-week period. This employee is a salaried employee without a set contract of employment,” he said.

While Manchester has a non-partisan election system, political affiliation is still playing a role in campaigning. Hudak and Arace are both Republicans. Arace noted he is the Manchester Township Republican organization endorsed candidate for mayor in the township. A third contender in the mayoral race this November is Ken Seda, a member of the Manchester Democrat Club and a retired counselor and community advocate.

There are two council seats up for grabs in this year’s election and six candidates, two from each mayoral campaign team, are on the ballot.

Base:

Continued From Page 1 maintenance (O&M) on the systems since theirThecompletion.totalsolar photovoltaic capacity to be deployed amounts to 32 megawattsone of the largest solar installations that Ameresco has installed at a federal site.

backup generation assets within the new microgrid. The pairing of distributed energy generation systems with BESS and microgrid controls is designed to assure the base’s access to uninterrupted power in support of JBMDL’s critical missions.

“We are incredibly excited to expand our already robust partnership with the team at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst,” Nicole Bulgarino, Executive Vice President of Federal Solutions at Ameresco

said.She added, “we’re eager to get started on the integration of advanced clean technologies to create a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the base and deliver a project that meets the installation’s mission requirements while also advancing the Climate Smart BuildingAlongInitiative.”withthe integration of distributed energy resources and microgrid controls,

the project is designed to achieve energy demand reductions through more LED fi xture retrofits, wireless streetlighting controls, and advanced interior lighting controls.ThePhase 2 ECMs are designed to generate more than $4.7 million in annual energy savings for JBMDL, a total energy usage reduction of 22%. The Phase 2 construction is scheduled to start soon and reach completion in early 2025.

Preschool:

Continued From Page 1

Ameresco is also installing a 2MW/4MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) and integrating the solar, storage, and and in the future success of the State of New Jersey for decades to come.”

Acting Commissioner of Education

Dr. Angelica Allen McMillan said, “I am excited to work with the 27 school districts receiving this funding to create and expand their community’s preschool “Governorprograms.”

Murphy’s continued budget allowance for high-quality preschool allows many young children an opportunity to attend preschool and reap the benefits of starting school earlier,” she added.The NJDOE broadened the number of districts in July that could apply for PEA funding from those with 20 percent of students coming from lower-income families (defined by being eligible for free or reduced priced lunch) to districts with 10 percent of students who meet the income eligibility standards.

Manchester, Plumsted and other school districts that will receive the grant award demonstrated to DOE that they can provide a high-quality preschool program to enrolled students.

A high-quality preschool program is defined by a full-day program with a certificated teacher, an aide, and small classes that are inclusive of children with special needs who have an individualized education program.

The FY2023 Budget appropriated $40 million to support grant awards to districts expanding existing preschool programs or districts creating new preschool programs. The remaining FY2023 funding will be awarded at a later time.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

F eAtUreD l etter

New Bills Will Hurt Senior Communities

You may be shocked, as I am, to know that New Jersey state legislators from Bergen, Middlesex, Hudson and Burlington Counties are actively working to pass laws, namely, Assembly Bill A4377 and Assembly Bill A4106-Senate Bill S2537, which will escalate the costs of living in Ocean County and New Jersey common interest communities throughout New Jersey, eliminate the ability of owners in such common interest communities to run their own communities as they see fit and which will ultimately convert owner occupied communities into low income rental communities.AssemblyBill A4377, proposed by Assemblywoman, Carol Murphy (District 7 Burlington), which is applicable to communities with over 100 units, seeks to impose an annual tax on all New Jersey condominiums, co-

operatives and homes within homeowner associations, at approximately $3.00 per unit, and, will require the non-delinquent unit owners within their communities to subsidize the delinquent unit owners within their communities by mandating an annual payment to a socalled “Common Interest Community Homeowners’ Association Trust Fund” to, among other things, not only pay the common maintenance expenses for low income households but also fund within the Department of Community Affairs (hereinafter “DCA”) the “Office of the Ombudsman for Common Interest Communities” which will demand an annual report from every common interest community board. This bill will not only discourage qualified individuals from serving their community, it will escalate the cost of living in virtually every New Jersey community association with more than 100 units, and, the mon-

ies collected will create a bloated bureaucracy within the DCA which will have the right to assist in foisting new rules and regulations upon all New Jersey common interest communities with more than 100 units, but not communities with less than 100 units, by people in Trenton who do not even live in the communitiesSenateaffected.BillS2537 proposed by Senator, Troy Singleton (District 7 Burlington), and, the companion Assembly Bill A4106, proposed by Assemblywoman, Yvonne Lopez (District 19 Middlesex) and Assemblywoman, Angelica M. Jiminez (District 32 Bergen and Hudson) applies to communitiesbuyandcorporations,morewhichsuchgoverningsence,communitiesage-restrictedand,ines-seekstooverridethedocumentsofcommunities,manyofhavebeeninplaceforthan40years,toallowbusinessesunder-agedpersonstounitsorhomesinsuchtorentthem

out; despite the residents previously purchasing in such communities because the community was owner occupied.Incredibly, the “Statement” which currently accompanies the need for this bill misstates that “communities which were organized by a developer to house persons aged 55 and over [requires that] at least 80 percent of the residents, and one resident per each household, must be aged 55 or older.” Rather, federal law requires ageingitscommunityidentifiSeveralolder.personstodemonstrateciesthatcommunity,qualifycommunitiesage-restrictedseekingtoasanage-restrictedtodemonstratetheyadheretopoli-andprocedureswhichtheirintentoperateashousingfor55yearsofageorSee24CFR100.306.oftheexpresswaysedbyCongressforatodemonstrateintenttooperateashous-forpersons55yearsororolderisthrough:Writtenrules,regulations,

Letters To The Editor

covenant, deed or other restrictions.(See24CFR 100.306(4))

The maintenance and consistent application of relevant procedures.

(See 24 CFR 100.306(5))

Actual practices of the housing facility or community.(See24 CFR 100.306(6))

The concept of 80% is irrelevant to most communities.

Historically and consistent with 24 CFR 100.306, Planning Boards throughout New Jersey have imposed upon many age-restricted communities, governing documents (ie Master Deeds, Declarations, Proprietary Leases and ByLaws), that do not allow persons under fifty-five (55) years of age to purchase a home or interest in a dwelling unit unless a spouse or a domestic partner of a person is fifty-five (55) years of age or older. This protocol is ingrained into the Master Plan of municipalities throughout New Jersey.

In conclusion, if the pro-

posed legislation discussed is passed, it will wreak havoc on the decisions of many New Jerseyans, who resisted retiring to more retirement friendly states, to buy into an owner-occupied and owner-governed retirement community in New Jersey, as they watch their communities transform into a rental community controlled by politicians and bureaucrats from outside of their community.

I therefore invite every person who opposes this legislation that they write the sponsors of these bills, as well as, your own state legislators and Governor Murphy to express, in no uncertain terms, why New Jersey will be a better place without such laws. We ultimately get what we deserve. And, inaction about where and how we live will leave us resenting where and how we live.

Judith ManchesterNoonan

Recently the letter carrier for our community experienced a devastating event where she lost her home

and all her belongings to a flood. Not being in a flood zone she didn’t have flood insurance so everything was a fi nancial loss.

Our community began donating gifts to her and several community organizations

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The Manchester 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 sectionthediscretion.perlimitedonline.com.news@jerseyshore-Lettersmaybetoonepermonthwriterattheeditor’sTheopinionsexpressedinLettersToTheEditordonotnecessari-

ly 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.

took up collections for her. While I’m sure these gifts helped, they couldn’t possibly make a dent in her needs.

Unfortunately, a member of our community, for reasons unknown, took it upon themselves to complain to the Post Master about the gifts that were being bestowed. She never solicited gifts and all gifts were given happily. This anonymous complaint letter caused her to be disciplined and threatened with loss of job if she accepted any future gifts. One of our local organizations which had collected many checks from their members had to forgo giving them to her.

What difference is this from (what I’m sure most of us do by) giving our letter carriers a holiday gift in December? Why would

someone go out of their way to make a bad situation worse? We live in a society with some very spiteful individuals. Shame on you.

LouisJacksonRiehl

Women’s (In) Equality Day

The League of Women Voters of Monmouth County (LWVMonmouth) usually celebrates August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. This recognizes the anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote and affording equal representation and the full rights and privileges as citizens of the United States.

NOT THIS YEAR.

Instead, the LWVMon-

mouth is marking August 26 as Women’s (In)Equality Day recognizing that we are in a moment where women have fewer rights than they’ve had in decades. We are calling on lawmakers to take action to restore and protect our rights.

The Supreme Court decision overturning the constitutional right to abortion as recognized for nearly 50 years will have a harmful impact on all people who may become pregnant. We are concerned this will exacerbate societal inequalities and fall disproportionately on people of color and low-income communities already facing obstacles to healthcare.TheLWVMonmouth urges the passage of the Reproductive Equity Act [REA] (A4350/S2918) now. This

act addresses gaps in access by mandating insurance plans in New Jersey cover abortion and birth control with no cost-sharing or out-of-pocket. The REA also protects people seeking and providing abortions in New Jersey from extremist violence and the aggressive overreach of anti-abortion states. This commonsense legislation will impact the lives of many and we must not wait to move it forward.

Contact your legislators and urge them to support strong and equitable access to reproductive healthcare for all.

Barbara Chaudhery Evelyn C. Murphy Sharon Steinhorn Co-Presidents, League of Women Voters of Monmouth County

Nearly 10,000 NJ Children Benefitted From Home Visit Programs In 2020

with young children.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee that sets national health policy, and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) an nounced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services $10,476,077 for its Ma ternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program services to women during pregnancy and to parents

“We know that when nurs es, social workers and other professionals are involved in the lives of at-risk chil dren through home visits during pregnancy and in the critical months after, that the outcomes in the areas of health, education, and economic self-sufficiency of these children and their families is dramatically improved,” said Sen. Menendez, who is the Senate lead of the program. “That is why I am proud to advocate each year for this vital funding that supports women and children and provides them with the tools, resources and education to build strong families and healthy“Homecommunities.”visitsbynurses, social workers,

and child development professionals im prove the health and well-being of children and families,” said Sen. Booker. “I’m proud to fight for funding to make sure thousands of New Jersey families and children receive crucial support and resources to thrive.”

Through MIECHV, nurses, social workers, or other professionals visit at-risk families in their homes to evaluate their living situa tions and provide information on resources available to improve the health, educational, and economic opportunities for at-risk children. Resources include health care, early education, parenting skills, child abuse prevention, and nutrition education orSen.assistance.Menendez secured a provision in the American Rescue Plan that provided an additional $150 million for staffing and servicing for MIECHV programs across

the country including $2,435,374 for New Jersey. The provision also includes expand ed flexibility for program operators to use funding to purchase technology needed for virtual home visits, and emergency supplies such as formula, food, water, hand soap and sanitizer, diapers, and prepaid grocery cards.

Sen. Menendez is the Senate champion of the MIECHV program and led the charge for a five-year reauthorization in 2017 to ensure families across the nation continue to receive services from this important pro gram. The Senator is actively working on reauthorizing this important program which is set to expire at the end of September. In New Jersey, all twenty-one counties are served by this program. In 2020, 5,387 New Jersey families and 9,788 New Jersey chil dren benefited from MIECHV programs with nearly 62,000 home visits.

State To Increase Annual Payments To Certain Veterans With Disabilities

FromCommentsCapitolTheDeskOfThe Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – In recognition of increas es to the cost of living over the past few decades and in honor of New Jersey’s vet erans, Governor Phil Murphy signed bill

A-1477 to increase annual payments from the State to veterans with certain disabilities resulting from their wartime service. An nual payments to eligible veterans will increase from $750 to $1,800.

Prior to the bill becoming law, payments to veterans with certain disabilities covered under the Paraplegic and Hemiplegic Veterans’ Allowance pro gram had not increased since 1981, while

payments to blind veterans covered under the Blind Veterans’ Allowance Program had not increased since 1971.

“A lot has changed over the past several decades, and it is important for our State to keep up with the rising cost of living in our support for New Jersey veterans,” said Gov ernor Murphy. “Veterans who were disabled in the line of duty made an immeasurable sacrifice on behalf of our nation. Ensuring these veterans receive the financial assis tance they need and deserve from our state is how we can honor that sacrifice.”

“Thanks to the hard work of advocates, Governor Murphy, and the Legislature, this benefit will help our Garden State veterans grappling each day with some of wartime’s most catastrophic physical injuries,” said Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veteran Affairs. “This benefit will certainly support the quality of life of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”Funding to enable this change in payments

(Government - See Page 18)

Russell D Petranto, D.P.M., J. Migliori, D.P.M., Regulski, D.P.M., P.W.C.A Lacey Road Whiting

Senator Robert Menendez

The Pines Annual Fall Festival

WHITING – Bring the family and experience the fall beauty of Pine Barrens and the Jersey Shore at The Pines annual Fall Festival, October 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. located at 509 Route 530, Whiting. The Pines Fall Festival is an annual celebration of the region’s creative spirit, traditional history, andVisitartistry.thepinesatwhiting.org/fallfestival2022 for more information or call 877-302-5303.

Shop and support local businesses when you start holiday shopping early! The Pines Festival hosts nearly 20 vendors, including Handmade with Love by Mary Lou Gilbert with Quilting, Memory Pillows and more;

Craft & Carry Custom handmade for the home by MJ Torres, Hive n’ Vine local honey by Lee & James Conte; Tickled Pink Stamping with Colleen; Kristen Markevich mosaics, clocks, signs; Olive June Design Company, prints, ceramics, jewelry, and

more.Enjoy live music, food vendors, musical storytelling, and the local history and folklore of the NJ Pine Barrens. Watch demonstrations by Chef Vinnie’s Kitchen and basket weaver, Mary May and learn how local nonprofits America’s Keswick, and Barnegat Bay Partnership are supporting our local

2022 Theater Trips From Broadway To You

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Recreation Department is offering the following theater trips:

September 29: “One Slight Hitch” at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton, NJ. Fee is $101.50 and includes the bus, lunch and show. Bus leaves from soccer field parking lot at 9:30 a.m. Lunch at 11:30 a.m. Showtime is 2 p.m.

December 8: “A Playhouse Christmas 2022” at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton, NJ. Fee is $106 and includes

the bus, lunch and show. Bus leaves from soccer field parking lot at 9:30 a.m. Lunch at 11:30 a.m. Showtime is 2 p.m. Payment due by October 8.

Payment is required at least two months before each show date. If you make a reservation and your plans change, please call to cancel. Refunds will only be issued if there is a wait list.

To reserve your ticket(s), call the Manchester Township Recreation Department at 732-657-8121, ext. 5101, 5102, 5103.

Arts & Craft s Fair To Benefit Library

MANCHESTER – On October 15, the Friends of the Manchester Branch Library will be hosting a Craft Fair to take place at the Manchester Branch of the Ocean County Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Vendors will be selling unique handcrafted items. Support local crafters and your library at the same time. Proceeds from this

fundraisercommunity.willgotoenhance

WHITING – The Youth Group of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church (30 Schoolhouse Rd, Whiting) will be holding their annual Car Wash fundraiser on September 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30

WHITING – Crestwood Village 3 Resident Club dance will be held on October 28 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse RoadDoorsWhiting.openat 5:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per person, nonrefundable unless cancelled.

programming

and extend the ability to meet other needs of the Manchester Branch Library. Since this is to be an indoor event, it will take place rain or shine. All ages are welcome.

The Manchester Branch of the Ocean County Library is located at 21 Colonial Drive in Manchester Township. p.m. in the church parking lot. Suggested donation of $5 per car or $7 per van/ truck. Free dog treats to any pups along for the ride! Please come out to support the Includedyouth!is

St. Ann Seton Church Car Wash Fundraiser Club Dance Market

WHITING – Come out to the Flea Market on October 15, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to see what you have been missing out on. They have over 50 friendly vendors, come on in and check it out the great bargains. If

coffee, tea, soda, water, chips and dessert. BYOB. Music by DJ Johnny’s MagicTicketsMoments.onsaleat Unity Hall on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

You can buy tickets at the door if still available.

you just want to catch up with your friends, stop by the kitchen for breakfast or lunch.

If you are interested in renting a table the cost is $10 per table; call Rosa at 732664-0469.

OCT. 5 $118/pp

Includes

OCT. 25 DAVID $136/pp

Includes

OCT. 22 WIND $54/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play with a 5 hr Stay

OCT. 23 THE JERSEY TENORS AT HUNDERTON HILLS PLAYHOUSE $134/pp

Includes Dinner Before Show.

OCT. 26-28 3 DAY SALEM HAUNTED HAPPENINGS FALL FOLIAGE TOUR $599/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 2 nights lodging at Embassy Suites, Lizzie Borden House Tour, Guided Tour, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and more.

OCT. 29 A TRIBUTE TO BILLY JOEL & SR. ELTON JOHN AT HUNDERTON HILLS PLAYHOUSE $126/pp Includes Lunch Before Show.

NOV. 1-5 5 DAY PIGEON FORGE & SMOKY MOUNTAINS FALL FOLIAGE TOUR $999/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 4 nights lodging, 2 shows, 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners, Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, Guided Tour, Smokey Mountains National Park & More.

NOV. 11 FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS AT NJC CENTER $249/pp Includes Orchestra Level Seat & Dinner Before Show.

NOV. 16 FUNNY GIRL MUSICAL $194/pp Includes Lunch Before Show.

NOV. 18 CHRISTMAS AT LONGWOOD GARDENS $134/pp

Includes Lunch and admission.

NOV. 27-DEC. 1 5 DAY BILTMORE ESTATE AT CHRISTMAS $1035/pp Dbl. Occ.

Includes 4 nts. Lodging, House Tour, Ashville Highlights Tour 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners & More.

NOV. 30 CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR ROCKETS AT RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL $222/pp

Includes Lunch Before Show and Orchestra Seat

NOV. 30 HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS THE BROWNSTONES IN PATERSON $128/pp a family Music, Comedian

DEC. 1 HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS AMERICAN MUSIC THEATER IN LANCASTER PA $126/pp Lunch Show

DEC. 12-14 3 DAY CHRISTMAS THE POTOMAC $598/pp Dbl.Occ. the this year of a

C

Crestwood Village 2 Indoor Flea Market

WHITING – Everyone loves a bargain! You’ll fi nd plenty of them at the Crestwood Village 2 Flea Market on November 12. The doors of Harmony Hall will open promptly at 9 a.m. and remain open until 1Herep.m. you’ll fi nd a wide-variety of household items, collectibles, books, toys, jewelry, crafts, clothing, linens and so much more. Beverages and prepackaged snacks

will be available for purchase, as well as tickets for the 50-50 drawing (winner need not be present).

You do not want to miss the fantastic semi-annual event. So be sure to mark your calendar and come check it out on November 12.

Select tables are available at this time for $12, call Lucille Molnar at 732-941-4992 for information and availability.

WHITING – Crestwood Village VI presents: lets give thanks to our veterans at your Rock & Roll Dance Party with DJ Bill Brown on November 12 from 6 to 10 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $25 per person; $20 for veterans (with proof). Dinner from Blue

WHITING – Homemade for the Holidays Craft Fair hosted by Arts and Crafts Club of Cedar Glen Lakes will be on November 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., held in Lakeside Hall at 100 Michigan Avenue Whiting.

Fountain. Turkey dinner or ham dinner. Beverages, snacks, coffee and desserts included.Ticketavailable at Crestwood Village VI clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting, Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. Call Bob at 732-849-3722 for more information.

Homemade For The Holidays Craft Fair Cropwalk For Hunger

WHITING – We walk so others can eat. This year’s Cropwalk in Whiting will be held on October 16 at 2 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting. Representatives from local churches

Resident Club Village 5 Dance Crestwood Village VI Rock & Roll Dance Party

WHITING – Resident Club Village 5 Dance will be on October 7 from 7 to 11 p.m. Music by: Dee & Steve Fisher. Cost is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. If you want to reserve at table of eight or more, must be paid

They will have a little something for everyone. Jewelry, holiday décor, gifts, honey, stained glass, t-shirts, quilts, and much more. Food will be available for purchase and there will also be a gift raffle.

and organizations will walk nearby to the church. Their sponsors will fund their walk. Call the church office at 732-350-2121 from Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for directions and information.

in advance. Non- refundable unless canceled. Purchase tickets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. till 12 p.m. at Village 5 clubhouse, 325 Schoolhouse Road. Call Debbie at 201-6188514 for more information.

Woman’s Club Of Deerfield Hall

MANCHESTER – The club was founded in 1981 as the above, so the name was changed back to the original name from Deerfield Woman’s Club. Due to COVID we could not celebrate our 40th anniversary so before these years end, we would like to celebrate the 40 years. Any past members are welcome to come back so we can learn more about the club’s history. We do have a book with some history for members to read.

Meetings are open to anyone 55 and over due to speaker and age-related presentations. We will now have a treasure table at our meetings for members to fi nd a treasure that may have been trash to another.

The club gives back to the community with the dollars raised by our events. Due to COVID there have not been any since

2019 and the scholarships to MTHS had to be cut back along with any donations to local charities.

We are looking forward to many events in the coming months. Our fi rst one is the Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends. The club is selling passes for $5 each for up to 25% off - the club gets to keep 100% from the passes sold. The one-day sale is October 19 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Passes will be available on Mondays, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Deerfield Hall CV6 clubhouse or call Adrianne at 201-294-0608.

Our meetings are held in Deerfield Hall on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. from September to June membership is $10 per year. Refreshments are service and we have luncheons during the year also.

Crestwood Village III Travel Club News

WHITING – Crestwood Village III Travel Club has announced the following upcomingResortstrips: Casino in Atlantic City: October 20. Price $35. Trip includes round-trip transportation including driver gratuity and a Casino Bonus of $18 Slot Play. Casino Bonuses are subject to change without notice. Valid Government issued ID required to receive Casino Bonus. Gather at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, at 8:45 a.m. and return at 5:45 p.m.

Lunch At Shady Maple And Miracle Of Christmas Show At Sight & Sound Theatre In Lancaster, PA: November 16. Price $175. This fabulous show will only be running for 8 weeks and hasn’t been done for the past 5 years so seats will be filling up quickly. We have great center seats reserved for

this special show. If you are interested, we will be collecting a $50 deposit to reserve your seat starting December 1, another $50 payment will be due by May 15, 2023 and the balance of $75 will be due by August 15, 2023. We booked this trip 16 months ahead of time to get the most reasonable price and the best seats available.

Additional trips for 2023 will be announced next month. Be sure to be on the lookout when this information becomes available.Deposits will only be refunded if trip is cancelled. Tickets for trips will be on sale on Monday mornings at Unity Hall from 9 to 11 a.m.

For reservations or information, call Rose Kantenwein 732-408-5441. Make all checks payable to CV3 Travel Club.

Crestwood Village VI Halloween Dance

WHITING – Once again time for your Halloween Dance Spectacular. Don’t forget wear your best Halloween costume. Entertainment by everybody’s favorite DJ

PresentedJohnny.byResidents Club Crestwood Village VI at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting, on October

8 from 6 to 10 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy food, refreshments, snacks, dessert and coffee.

Ticket sales every Monday in September from 10 to 11 a.m. sold at Crestwood Village VI clubhouse. 50/50 Raffle and prize giveaways to be held. Call Bob at 732-849-3722 for more information.

New Year’s Eve Atlantic City Trip

MANCHESTER – Have any plans for New Year’s Eve this year? Never too early to start planning!

We’re going to Resorts Casino in Atlantic City on December 31. Any and all proceeds will benefit local charities.

Cost: $40 per person with Casino Slot Play

to be determined. Casino Slot Play subject to change at the casino’s discretion. No refunds unless trip is cancelled.

Tickets available for sale by calling Lucille at 732-941-4992. Please leave a message with your name and phone number if you are interested and want to join on the bus.

Cedar Glen Lakes Bingo

WHITING – Cedar Glen Lakes presents Bingo! Fourth Saturday of each month.

Lunch available for sale. Doors open at 12 p.m. Calling starts at 1 p.m. sharp.

Mark your calendar: September 24, October 29, November 26.

Cedar Glen Lakes, Lakeside Hall, 100 Michigan Avenue, Whiting.

p oliCe B lotter Car Crashes Into Living Room, Injuring Resident

By Chris Lundy MANCHESTER – A driver was backing out of his driveway and lost control, crashing into the living room of his neighbor across the street, police said.

Clyde Jackson, 64, of Whiting, was leaving his Milford Avenue home just before 10 p.m. on September 19 when he lost control of his 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis. Police said the rear of the car went through the living room wall of a house across the street.

Gloria Eppig, 57, of Dallas, was taken to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Police said her injuries are not life-threatening. Jackson was not injured.The crash is being investigated by Patrolman Vincent Derome and Patrolman Jesse Hoydis of the department’s Traffic

Safety Section. Responding to the scene were members of Manchester Township Emergency Medical Services, Whiting Volunteer Fire Department, Joint Base Fire Department, the Ocean County Technical Rescue Team, the Manchester Township Building Inspector, and Accurate Towing.

Dr. Brian Klohn

Photo courtesy Manchester Police

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Learn To Spot Drug Dangers

TOMS RIVER – Parents, guardians and other residents are encouraged to attend any of four educational, interactive programs that focus on drug use and abuse in Ocean County, presented by the Ocean County Health“DrugsDepartment.101:DrugTrends for Ocean County Parents” will take place at four branches: October 4, 6:30 p.m. – Brick Branch, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, 732-477-4513, presented by Renata Bradshaw, OCHD ProgramOctoberMonitor20,6:30 p.m. – Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive, 732-657-7600, presented by Kelly Larney, Senior Field Representative, Health Education November 2, 6:30 p.m. – Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, 732-3496200, presented by Amanda Gan, MBA, CHES®, Program Development Specialist, Community Service

November 15, 6:30 p.m. – Little Egg Harbor Branch, 290 Mathistown Road, 609294-1197, presented by Kelly Larney, Senior Field Representative, Health Education

Each two-hour program will examine a variety of drugs, substances specifically found in Ocean County, and their impacts. Attendees will learn slang, understand how substances are used, and recognize how people under the influence react.

Attendees will gain awareness of illicit substances and paraphernalia by walking through an interactive teenage bedroom display that contains signs of drug use and abuse.Registration at theoceancountylibrary. org/events is required to attend these free programs. To learn more, visit or call your nearest participating branch, or chat/text to 732-943-1625.

ISLAND HEIGHTS – Join the Island Heights Environmental Committee on September 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Island Heights Borough Hall for their next event

Offshore Wind Energy & NJ: Challenges of

Sharing the Coastal Ocean. Speaker: Douglas Zemeckis, Ph.D, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Rutgers. Next event on October 27: Improving the Health of the Barnegat Bay.

Photos courtesy of Ocean County Health Department

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

The Eastern Cottontail

By Renee Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

The eastern cottontail is a member of the order Lagomorpha. What does that mean, you might be wondering? It refers to gnawing herbivorous mammals who possess two pairs of incisors in the upper jaw, one behind the other. They are not considered mammals, despite their resemblance to rodents. The cottontail is one of 12 species of rabbits occupying North America. Rabbits are considered a major food source to a variety of animals. Dogs and cats are also considered predators, whether they domestic or Cottontailsferal.have a digestive system that allows them process food twice. It passes initially as a soft blackish pellet, which is consumed, digested and passed through as a hard fibrous pellet. At that point there is no nutritional value. Their primary food sources are tender grasses, leaves, and herbs. That is not to say they will eat other foods not typical of their diet, in cases where natural foods are not available. Their shallow nests are constructed in the ground, lined with some grasses and the mother’s fur which she plucks from her neck area. This provides a lining between

the soil and her babies. Some females will produce anywhere from two to five litters a year. Each litter having four to six “kittens.” Personally, I have seen litters as large as 10. During the day the mother leaves the nest and returns at dusk to nurse. She does this keep her scent away from her babies as it will attract predators. Cats will often fi nd a nest, and once that happens, they usually remember where they are. One by one a cat might bring a ‘gift’ to its home. In that case they are not looking for food but simply demonstrating their prey drive.

The white spot on the top of their forehead is the quickest way to identify them. Even with their speed reaching 20 miles per hour, they have many predators in the wild which include foxes, hawks, owls, domestic cats, and dogs. They are also hunted by people and killed by automobiles. Some will not survive past one year. They utilize burrows to escape from predators, however, those burrows are those of other animals.

The information for this article from was gathered through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/ or federal permits.

Adam Sandler Is Coming To Hard Rock Live

ATLANTIC CITY – Legendary comedian Adam Sandler is coming to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on October 28 at 8 p.m.

Tickets go on sale September 16 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. All shows are subject to change.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Schedule Announced For Household Hazardous Waste Disposal

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY – The fall schedule for the Household Hazardous Waste program has been Businessesannounced.andinstitutions are not eligible for this program. Pre-registration is required, and can be filed online at co.ocean. nj.us/recycle, or you can call 732-506-5047. Proof of residency is required.

The collection dates are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include:

Oct. 8 – Fraternal Order of Police Parking Lot (Toms River), 1791 North Bay Avenue

Oct. 29 – Long Beach Township Public Works, 7910 Long Beach Boulevard

Drop off items include: aerosols, auto products, cleaning products, pool chemicals, fire extinguishers, gasoline, pesticides/ herbicides, mercury switches/devices (thermostats), stains/thinners, polyurethanes, andThosepolishes.items not accepted include: elec-

tronics, cylinders (oxygen tanks), asbestos, radioactive materials (smoke detectors), infectious wastes, explosives (fi reworks, gunpowder, boat flares) and unknown materials.Allmaterials, with the exception of oil and gasoline, should be in the original containers. A limit of 200 pounds of dry materials and 20 gallons of liquid material is allowed per household. No containers larger than five gallons are accepted.

Municipal recycling centers and Ocean County’s recycling centers allow for yearround drop off other materials including used paint, batteries, antifreeze, and waste oil. Residents can use the drop offs located at the Ocean County Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood, or the Southern Recycling Center located in Manahawkin from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For further information, visit co.ocean. nj.us/OC/SolidWaste/.

Beginner Astronomy

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be offering Beginner Astronomy for people age 11 years and up at Cattus Island County Park, located at 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard Toms River on November 15 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Join Jim Webster from the Astronomical Society of the Toms River Area and learn about telescopes that can take your night viewing to a new level.

To register, send a check or money order for $5 made payable to the “County of Ocean” to Ocean County Parks and Recreation, 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, NJ 08753. Provide your name, address, and daytime telephone number, along with program number 302166-1E when registering.

For more information or to receive a Parks & Recreation Newsletter call 732-506-9090 or visit our website at oceancountyparks.org.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Join Oliverie Funeral Home For Lunch

Government: Continued From Page 10 to eligible veterans was a part of the Governor’s initial FY23 budget proposal and was included in the fi nal budget signed in JuneThis2022.law

living over the years, this is unacceptable. While the increase of compensation in this bill cannot fully repay the sacrifice our disabled veterans gave, it can hopefully provide some aid as they live out the rest of their lives.”

– Join Oliverie Funeral Home for lunch on September 27 at 11 a.m. at 125 S Cooks Bridge Road, Jackson. Many of you have expressed an interest in knowing more about funeral arrangements. Oliverie Funeral Home hosts free informational seminars as a service to the community. They do these seminars at local venues with a complimentary lunch provided. This is also a great time to fellowship with your neighbors. There will be no selling at these

seminars –information shared only.

Topics of discussion are:

• Importance of Pre-Planning

• Current Trends, Options and Costs

• Burial Vs. Cremation

• Veterans Benefits – What the Government Does And Does Not Provide

• Legal Issues - Medicaid & Probate

• Handling A Death While Traveling

Seats are limited: RSVP to 732-719-7250.

will help approximately 200 veterans in New Jersey. Benefits eligibility includes veterans with loss of sight, amputations of hands, feet or limbs, osteochondritis, multiple sclerosis, permanent paralysis in their limbs or certain portions of the body.

The increase will take place on January 1,Sponsors2023. of the bill include Senators Linda Greenstein and Michael Testa, and Assembly members Daniel Benson, Anthony Verrelli, and Raj Mukherji.

“Veterans with service-connected disabilities sacrificed so much to protect our country and deserve compensation for their efforts,” said Senator Greenstein. “Several decades have gone by since these payments to veterans have been increased. Considering the exponential increases seen in cost of

“I am proud this legislation will be signed into law. It is our duty to ensure the well-being of New Jersey’s veterans and their spouses,” said Senator Testa. “Some veterans have suffered significant disabilities in the line of duty including permanent paralysis and loss of sight. This law will offer some much needed fi nancial relief and stability to these injured veterans and their loved ones during their time of need.”

“This annual allowance increase is long overdue,” said Assemblymen Benson, Verrelli, and Mukherji in a joint statement.

“$750 does not stretch as far as it used to and it is time we acknowledge that by providing our disabled veterans with the financial assistance they have earned. After everything these veterans have sacrificed for our country, we owe it to them to do all that we can to help them support themselves and their families.”

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be offering Extra! Extra! Read All About Cattus Island for people age 16 years and up at Cattus Island County Park, located at 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard Toms River on October 26 from 2 to 3 p.m. This program will take you on a virtual stroll down memory lane to discover how this gem of a park has evolved into the 500-acre oasis that so many people

cherish.JACKSON

To register, send a check or money order for $5 made payable to the “County of Ocean” to Ocean County Parks and Recreation, 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, NJ 08753.

Provide your name, address, and daytime telephone number, along with program number 302166-1C when registering. For more information or to receive a Parks & Recreation Newsletter call 732-506-9090 or visit our website at oceancountyparks. org.

Fire Co. Needs Volunteers

LAKEHURST – Volunteer fi refighters and fi rst aid squad members are urgently needed. Staffing remains at an extremely critical level, which could affect the longterm future of these vital organizations. These organizations exist for you, but community involvement is required for them to

continue. Training is provided.

Please consider helping your community as a member of either the fi rst aid squad or the fi re Contactdepartment.Borough Hall at 657-4141 or 657-4161 for additional information or to volunteer your services.

By Alyssa Riccardi courtesy Ellen DiNallo

H ERE S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

I May Buy A Less Expensive OTC Hearing Aid

There are many of you out there that are willing to take a chance on buying one of the many OTCs on the market. Before you make that PURCHASE, fi rst have your hearing evaluated determine if you’re really a candidate for this device. Contact Dr. Izzy’s office and he will be happy to evaluate your hearing and discuss all of your options with you. If you ignore this recommendation, then carefully read the information below to assist in making the best purchase for your listening needs.

Discounts

If you require a flat reduction for the OTC hearing aids you wish to purchase, follow the best sale technique of a couple of portals, which occurs occasionally. These platforms will also supply better-discounted price selections on various items during the off-season.

Customer Feedback

You should seek reviews for your chosen product on the relevant portal. Go for it if you are completely satisfied. Never make a buy in a hurry. Give your time and conduct thorough research on the merchandise you prefer.

Analyze The Ratings

It is widely thought that if a product’s rating remains at or above par four, the product is an excellent pick. You must pay attention to the ratings and hunt for the ideal point. Then and only then will your online purchase be a success. If you see ALL 5 Star ratings, don’t believe it. Explore The Company’s Privacy Policies.

This is a critical component. You don’t have to follow them if you buy from well-known and trustworthy websites. However, look into their privacy policies if you use a few additional web portals. And determine whether or not they are genuine.

Policy On Returns

If dissatisfied with the product, you must return it within the time frame specified by the relevant E-commerce platforms. Ensure that the returned product is in the same condition as when it was received and that the associated receipt is not misplaced.

Methods Of Payment

After you’ve decided on your products,

click the Buy button. Then you’ll see various payment options for credit and debit cards and their EMI plans. If you are not comfortable paying in advance, use the cash on delivery (COD) or pay on delivery option (POD).

Don’t Purchase Using Public Wi-Fi. Never, ever do it, no matter how much free public service you obtain. Otherwise, your personal buying would become a public concern. Whatever product you choose and its associated pricing may be made public.

Check Your Credit Card Statement. Check your credit card statement regularly. It’s always fun to have credit cards because you can buy anything using the lucrative EMI programs. However, the issue emerges when you become aware of the massive pending loans. So, always shop wisely while keeping your budget and needs in mind.

Look For HTTPS Rather Than HTTP In The URL.

HTTPS is highly recommended if you require a secure buying experience. It operates at the transport layer, ensuring end-to-end network communications security, and is hence favored for internet communications and online transactions.

Do Not Click On Links In Emails. Never click on an unsolicited email link since it could be a malware message that could harm your device or laptop if you do. As a result, your private and secure data may be compromised.

Update Your Browser. Always update your browser because there is always the possibility that it will become infected with malicious programs, trojans, and viruses. As a result, your regular upgrades will quickly address any security issues.

The Bottom Line

Dr. Izzy & his Staff hope this information helps you make the right decision when you purchase OTC hearing aids. We are always available to answer your questions about hearing health. His offices are located in Toms River, Manahawkin, and Whiting and can be reached by calling 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstate hearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

The 4 Biggest Problems With Face Creams

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Everyone likes to look youthful, and face creams are a quick way to smooth out fine lines and add hydration to your face. Even if this doesn’t apply to you, and you yourself don’t use any skincare, someone you know does! I know that because the face cream market is expected to hit $8 billion dollars in the next few years! That’s a lot of face cream! And I can tell you from personal experience, that many of them are not useful, and are sometimes harmful.

By harmful, I mean they may contain ingredients that are aging you faster. There are 4 major problems with using certain face creams. Let’s go over those now.

The 4 Main Problems with Face Cream

1. They Can Often Feel Greasy. When you apply your face cream, you may wake up in the morning to a greasy face print on your pillow! Or you might apply your makeup (on top of your face cream) and just end up with an oil-looking face. The reason is that most moisturizers contain oils that don’t match your skin so they sit on top of the skin rather than getting absorbed. The biggest brand names are often the biggest culprits for cheap ingredients because they use their money to pay influencers and celebrities to brainwash you that it’s amazing stuff ! The ingredients often come up short, or very chemically.

2. The Ingredients Can Increase Risk of Cancer. Many face creams today contain parabens and other cancer-causing preservatives. If you read the ingredient list

and see any word that ends in “paraben” such as methylparaben, then you should choose something different. If you apply a cream with parabens even once daily, you are exposing yourself to endocrine disruptors that are thought to cause many cancers.Ifyou don’t know you have a little microscopic (yet-to-be-seen) tumor, and you use parabens, you may be making yourself worse because of the cream you are using. Everyone who has integrity will avoid putting parabens in their skin care products.

3. The Vitamin C They Use is All Wrong. I see very pricey moisturizers boasting vitamin C in their formulas. While it’s true that this nutrient is beneficial for skin care, it is also true that most forms of C do not even work on the skin as advertised.

4. Steroids are Hidden in Some Face Creams. Many people will apply a daily moisturizing cream without realizing that they contain steroids. You may be aging yourself! These creams are often sold at the dermatologist’s office, or online. The reason is that use of steroids on the face for more than a few weeks will cause thinning of the skin, and fungal infections which can become very severe.

The best way to apply moisturizer is to use a nickel-sized amount for your entire face and don’t forget your neck. If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, come to my website suzycohen. com, and I will give you the solution to these problems, as well as a free ebook.

(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)

©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

A Showcase Of Local Farms Preserved From Development

By Stephanie Faughnan

PLUMSTED – A ride through parts west in Ocean County features a far different landscape than sandy beaches or dense pine forests. Instead, acres and acres of sprawling farmland offer a taste of what makes New Jersey the Garden State.

Much of the picturesque scene comes with a promise as part of the Ocean

County Natural Lands Trust Program. Twenty-five years ago, voters approved a 1.2 cent tax that provides funds for the acquisition of lands in Ocean County for conservation and farmland preservation.

“People need to know that when we buy this land, it will always be preserved,” said Commissioner Virginia “Ginny” Haines. “It can never be developed for

any other purpose.”

The concept of living off the land means different things to the 58 farms that are preserved under the program. For some, growing and selling food crops acts as the mainstay for their livelihood. Ornamental plant growers and legendary stables are also on the list of preserved farms in Ocean County.

Plumsted’s dominance in the preservation program has earned it the distinction as Ocean County’s farm belt. Officials say the coastal divide makes a world of difference in the quality of the soil from sand or marshlands.

Last week, county officials invited the media to join in a tour of some of Plumsted’s preserved farmlands. Mayor Robert Bowen also came along for the visit.

Hallock’s U-Pick Farm was the fi rst to become part the Farmland Preservation Program as far back as 1991. Located at 38 Fischer Road in New Egypt, the farm consists of a total of 269 acres. Those who want a fresh vegetable picking experience will need to bring along their own knives.

Fields are open daily although the owners suggest pickers call ahead if they’re looking for a particular crop. Just because a fruit or vegetable is available in the supermarket doesn’t mean it’s in season locally. A retail store on the premises offers a wide selection of already handpicked delights.

The Hallock farm has been around for generations and is well invested in the preservation program. Doug Hallo ck serves as chairman of the Ocean County Agriculture Development Board. His daughter continues to run the farm – the only business she’s ever known.

According to Mark A.C. Villinger, a Supervising Planner with the Ocean County Department of Planning, one of the largest farms purchased under the program was the Grant Farm, which originally consisted of 282 acres.

“We purchased the Grant Farm in 2012 directly from the owner and the county became the owner of the farm,” Villinger shared. “We preserved it with the state.”

Krowicki’s Farm Market, located at 862 Route 539 in New Egypt has 28.76 acres of the farmland. Dennis Krowicki provided a tour of nearby fields that began with rows of different melons, including crenshaws and honeydews. An apple orchard set apart from the regular crops promises honeycrisps as a favorite variety.

“Anything you see growing here is done without any chemical fertilizers,” stressed Krowicki. “There’s no reason to usePointingthem.”to a big dark pile in the distant (Development - See Page 24)

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church

All Saints Chapel & Columbarium30Schoolhouse Road, Whiting

SATURDAY MASSES

4:00 PM

DAILY MASS in All Saints Chapel Mon. thru Fri. 8:00am & Noon

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION Saturdays 2:30-3:30 in Church

Rev. Evarist Kabagambe, Pastor

Choosing The Right Automobile Insurance Will Protect Your Family And Assets

By Mike Deem

In 1998, the State of New Jersey adopted the Automobile Insurance Cost Reduction Act (AICRA) to reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing the benefits available to persons who are injured in automobile accidents. This means less coverage to pay for medical treatment and less rights to recover monetary damages from careless drivers who injure your family. Protect yourself.

Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. The failure to carry automobile insurance may be punishable by imprisonment.

When purchasing automobile insurance, you have two choices; you are required to select either a Basic Policy or a Standard Policy. We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.TheBasic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in several areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries. The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else. The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets.

We recommend that you purchase a Standard Policy. A Standard Policy provides the best insurance coverage to protect your assets if you are sued and to provide compensation to you and your family if you/they are injured.

The Standard Policy does provide medical expense benefits (PIP) coverage which includes medical expenses up to $250,000.00 per person per accident. The Standard Policy also provides you with Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM Benefits), so if you are injured by someone who does not have automobile insurance, is insured under a Basic Policy or leaves the scene of the collision then you and your family are covered for your losses.

When you purchase the Standard Policy, you must elect a “tort option” that will determine your right to make a claim. You must select either the “limitation on lawsuit option” or the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” If you purchase the Basic Policy then you are assigned the “limitation on lawsuit option.” We recommend that you choose the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” Ask your insurance representative what is the actual dollar amount that your overall premium will increase if you elect the “no limitation on lawsuit option.”

By choosing the “limitation on lawsuit option” you are limiting your legal right to make a claim for monetary damages unless you sustain one of the following injuries: Death, Dismemberment; Significant scarring or disfigurement; Displaced Fractures; Loss of Fetus or a Permanent Injury that can been diagnosed by credible, objective medicalSelectingtesting.the correct insurance coverage is extremely important when it comes to protecting your family and personal assets.

Call the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates (732-505-1212) for a free evaluation of your automobile insurance policy.

By: Michael J, Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

Development: Continued From Page 22

field, Krowicki said he uses a Zoo Doo he gets from Six Flags. The compost blend likely consists of different animal manures collected from the animals in the amusement park’s safari exhibits.

Krowicki’s fields contain a variety of fruits and vegetables that will be picked and offered for sale inside the farm’s market. However, there’s one other distinction to this particular farm.

Away from the crops, horse lessons attract eager riders from afar. Krowicki said the farm also hosts riding shows.

Emery’s Farm, located at 346 Long Swamp Road in New Egypt became part of the farm preservation program in 2001. The 60-acre property includes 20 acres of blueberries alone. Visitors can pick blueberries or sunflowers depending on the time of year. The aroma of fresh baked goods hit the senses before the door to Emery’s Farm Country Bakery opens.

“The bakery is the largest in Ocean County,” said Bowen. “People come from everywhere to buy baked goods here.”

John Marchese, the owner of Emery’s Farm said he’s been in the farming industry for 22 years. The lack of rainfall has been one of this year’s challenges, as well as a low volume of blueberries in the industry. And, like everything else, increased costs and supply chain issues have added expenses.

At one time, Emery’s Farm featured a ten-acre corn maze. However, with inflation, Marchese decided the $5 admission fee could be a stretch for some families. He’s decided to shorten the corn maze and do something else.

“The open ground is now germination for a five-acre sunflower patch,” Marchese said. “We’re switching it up because the millennials with their phones will want to take pictures for five bucks each.”Marchese pointed to another area of the farm where four varieties of pumpkins

are planted. He said the drought also poses a dilemma for the pumpkins, which could potentially become a tough crop without water.

“We do plan to sell the farm in the next couple of years,” shared Marchese. “We already have three or four serious people who want to purchase it.”

While most appreciate the concept of supporting local businesses, many don’t realize that could still be the case when they’re shopping for flowers in big box stores.MidAtlantic Growers, located at 6 Meadowbrook Lane in New Egypt, joined the preservation program in 2002. The 32.8-acre farm sells ornamental plants on a wholesale basis, generally in a 25-mile radius.

Owner Ron Harrison said he’s been in the farming business for many years. He takes a great deal of pride in his operation, as well as the people who work forBeforehim. pointing out a field containing 60,000 mums, Harrison showed a small cutting to demonstrate how they begin. Mist plays an important role as far as watering the plants.

“All of a sudden they start to root,” Harrison explained. “We then plant them.”

Hot houses with temperatures of approximately 120 degrees currently hold colorful zinnias, ready to be shipped for stores to sell.

Like Marchese, Harrison noted increased costs have impacted his business. He admits that some of it just doesn’t make sense to him, using rising prices for plastic products as an example.

When Harrison first opened the farm, he had ten little greenhouses and his electric bill was over $1,000 a month.

Now, MidAtlantic has 75 greenhouses, and the bill is down to $600.

“It’s all because of rollups I use, and the solar,” said Harrison.

Four different farms – four different approaches to using their land. Four different properties forever preserved as farmland.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

A field of 60,000 mums at MidAtlantic Growers will be distributed to big box stores.

AroUnD

Grandparents Raising Grandkids: A Story For Kids

By Stephanie Faughnan

LONG BEACH ISLAND – Two youngsters raced through their grandparents’ Brighton Beach home and rushed outside to its dock directly on the Barnegat Bay. The early morning hours didn’t seem to faze them as the boy and girl grabbed nets to skim the water.

Many kids consider visiting grandma and grandpa’s house a fun break from their normal schedule. But, for Kianna Jester, age 9, and her seven-year-old brother, Kayden, it’s every day.

“We were in the midst of building this house seven years ago when we got the kids,” said Beth Jester, Kianna and Kayden’s grandmother. “We got them in June and made settlement inBethSeptember.”recalled when she and her husband, John, decided to raise their two grandchildren. She described their daughter, Joclyn, as troubled from when she hit her mid-teens. After graduating high school, Joclyn moved out because she was unwilling to follow her parents’ rules.

The teen’s difficulties escalated once she was out on her own. Joclyn began using all types of drugs and ultimately turned to heroin when she became desperate.

Although Joclyn preferred cocaine, heroin was cheaper and more available.

Devastated to see their beautiful daughter hooked on drugs, the Jesters signed up Joclyn for rehab in Florida. Joclyn met her children’s father, and the two prepared to start a life together.

“They were both clean for four years during Joclyn’s pregnancies and the birth of both kids,” Beth shared. “After Kayden was born, I think she had postpartum (depression) that led them both back to their comfort zone.”

Beth and John made regular trips to Florida (Grandparents - See Page 32)

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Beth Jester wrote a book about grandparents raising grandkids to help other families like her own.

Learn How Railroads Helped Jersey Shore Tourism

TOMS RIVER – Join the Ocean County Historical Society at 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River, NJ for the following program: “For a Wonderful Vacation, Go by Train! Railroads and Jersey Shore Vacationing” by Bill Elwell on October 9 at 2 p.m.

Nestled halfway between two of Americas most important cities, the Jersey Shore seems perfectly positioned to be a vacation destination. Two hundred years inviting visitors and providing a home to residents have fused the business of tourism as a local

way of life. Railroads, however, were the defining factor in creating and shaping the development of the Shore as a center for everything from day trips to whole summer vacations.

Bill Elwell is an adjunct professor of History at Monmouth University. He is a lifelong resident of Ocean County and railfan and railroad historian. To register for this free program, send your name, zip code, email address, and the date of the program October 9, to com.oceancountyhistory.zoom@gmail.

CLASSIFIEDS

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Seeking Home

APARTMENT WANTED - For senior healthy feamle ASAP, 908-910-3046. (40)

SENIOR JERSEY GENT SEEKS

NEW HOME - Semi-retired (fully vaccinated including Pfizer booster) desires lodging in private home. Food fringees too! Call Charlie 732-2163176. Email: cr@exit109.com. (40)

54 Year Old Gentlemen - Looking to seach for apartment/house to rent in Brick or Toms River. Please call Mary Ann 732-475-7770. (40)

Garage Sale - 1955 Pinta Ct. Toms River. Saturday Oct 1 & Sunday Oct 2, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (41)

Estate Sale

APARTMENT SALE - Beautiful antique bakers hutch, washstand, captains trunk, caine chairs and more. Dealer selling everything cheap, free furniture. 908-910-3046. (40)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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 crys tal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n)

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CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, turntables, musical instru-ments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (30)

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)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n) GarageRentSale

Help Wanted

Services

Experienced Home Health Aid(s)

Available hourly or 24/7 and ready to assist you with personal care, medication monitoring, driving, grocery shopping, cooking, light housekeeping, companionship, etc. (including patients suffering from Dementia/Althheimer's or any other disabilities). References available. Call 732-910-8869. (42)

Absolute best home improvements!"Building the shore since 1984" Additions, carpentry, windows & doors, roofing & siding, painting & staining, flooring, kitchens & baths, finished basements, masonry, fencing, custom decks, fully insured, license #13VH11804800. $ave. Call Brien 732-850-5060. (28)

House Cleaning, Painting, Shopping, - Window clean ing, laundry, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. Call 732-773-5078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interi or exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (28)

Services Services Services

Certified Home Health AidesNeeded for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n )

MY HANDY CREW - Home re pairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home main tenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (27)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and in sured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

Music Lessons In Your HomeBy state certified instrumen tal music teacher. Please call 732-350-4427 for more informa tion. All are welcome. (3)

Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, sid ing, windows. Repairs on small jobs. Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (19)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced 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, hardwork ing, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n)

PQ Painting & Home Improve ment Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Win ner 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)

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2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

Personals

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LES - Holiday Tradition. Pork or Chicken. Made weekly/Vacu um Sealed. Call/text Cary 908770-8537. $40 dozen. (43)

Carmen's Hair Styles- Help wanted hair stylist with experience. 1900 Rt. 70, Ste 210, Lakewood NJ. 732597-3447. Monday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Carmenshairstyles.com (43)

HIRING NOW!! The Goddard School of Toms River Route 70 is urgently hiring Assistant Teachers and Teacher Aides to float be tween the Infant through School Age classrooms. No teaching ex perience necessary. On-the-job training provided. Multiple PT and FT positions available. Call 732-363-5530 or email scheduleriver2nj3@goddardschools.comdtomstoaninterviewtoday!(t/n)

Home Health Care CompanyNow Hiring RN’s, LPN’s and CHHA in Ocean & Monmouth Counties! Flexible schedul ing. Work in your community. Weekly pay. Career advance ment. Comprehensive benefits. Call 732-505-8000 today. (t/n)

Computer Tutoring for Seniors –Retired, “Microsoft Certified” in structor. 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 com puters at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 special ist. 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)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod In stalls, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provid ed by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

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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.

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Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL

RY 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)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

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Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Trans portation needed. Long term com mitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

Day Substitutes Wanted for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School district: Couriers, Custodi al, School Nurses/RN, Secretarial, Teachers for Trade Skill Areas-Auto, Construction, Culinary, Electrical, Engineering/Machine Technology, Heavy Equipment Operator, HVAC, Plumbing, Welding or visit www.ocvts. org/employment. EOE. Please email resume to: tedgar@mail.ocvts.org or call 732-240-6414, ext. 3317. (42)

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Santucci Painting LLC - We paint it all, interior and exterior, drywall re pair, pressure washing, decks, stained. Email santwag@aol.com. 908-3275471. 13VH05784200. (41)

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4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:

5. MAIL TO : PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388. Or visit jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified. Card# Exp. Signature: Name:

Advertise in the main sections of Micromedia’s weekly news papers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Our skilled team of account executives can work with any budget. Call 732-657-7344 206 for more information.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

By Chris Lundy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Police said they arrested a Toms River man for assaulting law enforcement officers during the breach of the U.S. Capitol building on January 6, 2021.

Salvatore Vassallo, 59, was arrested in Toms River on September 14 and charged with “assaulting, resisting, or impeding law enforcement officers with a dangerous weapon and interfering with a law enforcement officer during a civil disorder,” police said. While these two are felonies, he is also charged with fiveHemisdemeanors.madeanappearance in court and was released pending future proceedings.

The police allege that he illegally entered the Capitol grounds on the day that electoral votes were being counted to ratify the presidential election with the intent on disrupting theHeprocess.allegedly hopped over a rail and joined a mob that was confronting law enforcement officers on the Upper West Terrace of the Capitol, near the Senate Wing Door and the Senate Fire Door. He was seen emerging from the crowd and facing the officers. Then,

he charged a member of the Metropolitan Police Department who was helping other officers. “Vassallo grabbed and pushed the officer with what appeared to be a significant amount of force. Moments later, he departed from that area.”

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which identified Vassallo as #338 on its list of photos of perpetrators they were looking for information about.TheU.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are trying the case, and credited help from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey.

More than 870 people from nearly all 50 states have been arrested for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including over 265 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The FBI said anyone with tips about this can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.

Join The Fight To End Hunger

JERSEY SHORE – Fulfill urges the public to participate in “Hunger Action Month” this September by organizing a food and fund drive, volunteering at our food bank, getting your school signed up for the “Students Change Hunger” friendly competition, and more!

“No one should have to make an impossible choice between food and other necessities like medicine, utilities, or childcare. But anyone willing to use their voice, dedication, commitment, and actions can be a ‘Hunger Hero’,” said Fulfill CEO and President Triada Stampas. “There are lots of opportunities to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors at the Jersey Shore during Hunger Action Month and beyond.” September marks the 15th year Fulfill has been part of Feeding America’s annual call to action known as “Hunger Action Month”. It is a time when people in the United States stand together to fight hunger by spreading the word about food insecurity and taking action.

During the month of September, Fulfill asks people in Monmouth and Ocean Counties to get involved by learning about hunger, committing to take action, speaking up about ways to ending hunger, especially on Hunger Action Day, September 23.

Some suggestions include:

• Students Change Hunger Competition – It is a food and fund drive competition for schools in Monmouth and Ocean Counties to help individuals and families less fortunate during the holiday season. The competition starts September 12 and it ends January 13, 2023. Go to fulfillnj.org/ students-change-hunger to get your school signed up.

• Donate Food - We accept donations of non-perishable and perishable food, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at our Neptune building located at 3300 Route 66 in Neptune, or Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fulfill’s People’s Pantry at The B.E.A.T. Center at 1769 Hooper Avenue in Toms River.

• Our most needed items are low-sodium canned vegetables (green beans, mixed veggies, yams), low-sugar cereal (bran

flakes, toasted oats, shredded wheat, corn flakes), oatmeal, pancake mix, lite pancake syrup, bottled water, pasta, tomato sauce, rice, shelf-stable milk, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruit in 100% juice or lite syrup, and boxed macaroni and cheese. The perishables we need are turkeys – fresh or frozen, whole chickens or chicken breasts – fresh or frozen, frozen ground beef, or frozen pork chops. We also could always use the donation of manual can openers.

• Donate Funds - Monetary donations are the best way to help as we have greater buying power than the public has in a grocery store. We can get $1 to stretch to cover three meals for our neighbors who are struggling. Go to fulfillnj.org to donate.

• Organize a Food and Fund Drive - People can hold food drives and deliver the food to us at 3300 Route 66 in Neptune or to Fulfill’s People’s Pantry at The B.E.A.T. Center at 1769 Hooper Avenue in Toms River.

• Volunteer – We welcome volunteers 13 years and older. Review our guidelines, see our available opportunities, and fill out an application at fulfi llnj.org/ways-to-help/ volunteer.

• Host a Fundraiser – Review the Third-Party Fundraising Guidelines at fulfillnj.org/ host-a-fundraiser. Then contact Fulfill’s development team to get started. Email development@fulfillnj.org or call 732-918-2600.

• Planned Giving - You can provide a lasting legacy to Fulfill. We welcome gifts through will bequests or pension funds, as well as paid-up life insurance, gifts through an IRA, or 401(k). Anyone who notifies Fulfill of a planned gift becomes a member of the Legacy of Hope Society. To join this very special group, you just need to include Fulfill in your estate plans and notify us.

• Social Media Postings – Share and like Fulfill’s social media posts on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter and tag Fulfi ll. If you receive a “Hunger Hero” sticker from Fulfill for a food or fund donation, post a photo, and use the following hashtags: #HungerActionMonth, #HowWeFulfill, #HungerHeroes, #NotEverybodyHasRecovered, and #GiveLocal.

• Fax: 732.286.9698

Sunday Worship Services of Holy Communion at 10 a.m. &Wednesday spoken Holy Communion at 9 a.m. Christ Lutheran Church

The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759 Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

E-mail:Website:christlutheranchurch2@verizon.netchristlutheranwhiting.com

Grandparents: Continued From Page 25

to visit Joclyn and her family. Everything seemed okay until they received the call that changed everyone’s lives.

A close relative of the father’s family revealed the couple was back to using drugs. The woman said that she intended to call child services unless Beth and her husband came down to get the kids. The caller seemed confident the children would be taken by the state“Weagency.wentdown the next day,” Beth said. “We took the kids back with us and have had them ever since.”

Joclyn stayed in Florida and cycled downward for several years. When she came back to be closer to her family, Joclyn was in and out of at least a dozen local rehabs. Finally, Beth told her daughter that she would not allow her to move home until she went to a long-term facility and met with counselors.

“We didn’t let her see the kids for almost a year,” shared Beth. “We told her all along that we supported her and loved her, but also that the children were more important than her.”

Beth left her full time job working for an advocacy agency centered on mental health, substance abuse, and intellectual disabilities. Instead, her entire focus became on doing what was best for her grandchildren.

The Jesters have two adult sons and five other grandchildren in addition to Joclyn and her kids. While they continued to enjoy typical interactions with the rest of the family, Beth recognized she faced challenges with raising Kianna and Kayden.

“You sometimes forget the things you did when the kids were younger,” Beth admitted. “You’re back to diapering; you’re bathing them, putting them down for naps, reading bedtime stories and doing double laundry.”

The children’s father remains uninvolved in their lives, which resulted in questions. Grandma and Grandpa pick up the kids from school, which appears to be somewhat of an anomaly. Additionally, the fact that Kianna and Kayden are biracial brought on a sense of ugliness that Beth just wasn’t prepared for at

“Kaydenall.

has had two incidences that were mean and hurtful,” said Beth. “We had to explain certain words (racial slurs) to him that we weren’t ready to discuss but had no choice.”Aboy also told Kayden at recess he had

to find another parent because he was the “wrong color.”

As she searched for resources about grandparents raising grandchildren, Beth found very little to help her. Beth’s frustration grew as she noticed the lack of children’s books on the subject. In her case, Beth hoped to find something to reassure her grandchildren that families come in all colors.

Beth doesn’t consider herself a writer but rather, a grandmother on a mission. She decided she’d tell the story as she knew it needed to be told. Beth wanted other children to understand that grand-families are still families and are not alone in how they’re raised.

“They look around, and they see many of their peers are not the same as them,” Beth said. “They know that many of their peers have a mother and a father and their lives are

“Wedifferent.”Livewith Nana and Grandpa” is published by Covenant Books, written by Beth Jester, and illustrated by Rylan Fabryk and is available on Amazon.

The story begins with the grandfather taking Sophia and Aiden for a walk. Picture bubbles illustrate the different types of familyBethrelationships.saidshechose the names for the story after doing research about popular ones. The most important premise of the book focuses on family love and the time everyone spends together. Sophia and Aiden are just three and five and enjoy things like riding bikes and playing with friends.

Kianna and Kayden know the book is about them but aren’t keen on discussing it. The two share an undeniable bond with one another. Nonetheless, like most siblings close in age, they sometimes get into spats. They’ve adjusted well and have now welcomed a critical person back into their lives.

A petite young woman, Joclyn, 31, looks more like the children’s sister than their mother. She stopped using drugs three and a half years ago and now lives with her parents andAccordingchildren. to Joclyn, it took some time for everyone to come to a good place. The most difficult part was for Joclyn to gain Kianna’s trust.

“She really remembers more and has more insecurities,” shared Joclyn. “Kayden doesn’t remember much at all. It’s taking time, but things are getting more comfortable.”

The Jester family does many things together and finds that being on the water brings a sense of peace to them. They’ve discovered many of LBI’s hidden gems and love things like the upcoming kite festival.

“Even in a paradise like LBI, there are grandparents raising grandchildren,” Beth reminded. “Families come in all different forms.”

A Bible-believing & Christ-centered Church

AssemblyWhitingofGod 10:00 a.m.

Worship Service

Nursery & Children’s Church

Rev. David Charlesworth, Pastor 83 Lacey Road (Rt.

Survivors Of Suicide Loss Group

BEACHWOOD – Forever In Our Hearts, an organization to support those who have lost ones to suicide, is holding monthly meetings the 2nd Saturday of each month at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 130 Cable Ave. Meeting time is 1 p.m.

For complete information, visit facebook. com/ForeverNRHearts or call 732-269-3236.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Author Blends Shore Area History With Drama

By Bob Vosseller

JERSEY SHORE – After two years of research, New Jersey author Laura Quinn recently released her debut novel, “Thicker Than Water.”

The Williamstown resident noted that the research was done “before I ever put pento-paper to ensure the utmost historical accuracy. The novel is the first in a trilogy and is, essentially, my love letter to our area.”

“While the majority of the book is set at the southernmost shore points, it also features some ‘real life’ events that occurred to the north; all intricately woven into the narrative. These include, in part, the 1916 shark attacks and the bombing at Black Tom Island,” Quinn said.

“Further (and without spoilers), a major plot point centers around the cruise of German submarine U-161, and events of ‘Black Sunday,’ in 1918,” the author added. “Perhaps most relevant is the intimate look at Camp Dix as it was during the Great War. Readers get from the standpoint of one of the doughboys stationed there.”

Quinn said several chapters of her book are set in Philadelphia. She noted that The Philadelphia Inquirer ran a half-page question and answer section in their Arts and Culture section and also ran a companion piece in their Down the Shore newsletter.

As to the content of the book, it is set in 1916 Cape May. Siblings Danny and Shannon Culligan are trapped under the thumb of their alcoholic father. Danny’s been in love with his childhood sweetheart, Jennie Martin - a wealthy cottager from Philadelphia - for as long as he can remember while her cousin, Hugh, is smitten with his sister.

“As the foursome struggles to surmount the class differences between them, the nation is plunged into World War I, changing all of their lives forever. Danny is drafted into the Army and Hugh enlists in the Navy - defending the home front as a lieutenant at Cape May Section Base Number 9,” Quinn said.

She added that “while Jennie works tirelessly on the Liberty Loans campaign in Philadelphia, Shannon finds herself ensnared in a rum ring operation as the temperance movement ebbs closer to its goal of Prohibition.”

The author said her book “challenges readers in its exploration of the age-old question about where one’s loyalties lie and just how far would you go to protect your family?”

She noted a crucial scene that occurs in the midst of a nor’easter storm coming ashore.

The event goes on to impact all four main characters in different ways, some of which are explored in this book. Other impacts will be explored in the two sequels planned.

“With regard to historical events in narrative, I tried to stay as close to source material as possible throughout,” Quinn said.

“Making sure the details were accurate was a matter of utmost importance to me from

(Author - See Page

–Photo courtesy Laura Quinn Author Laura Quinn prepares for a book signing at a Barnes & Noble store for her new book, “Thicker Than Water.”

theAsbeginning.”tohowshe came to write the book, Quinn said, “I have two kids and my oldest is a really bad sleeper so when I was up with him at night, it was something I started telling myself so that I wouldn’t fall asleep rocking him.”

Quinn explained, “It just grew from there. I have a lot of happy childhood memories growing up at the Jersey Shore. I wrote it as a short story and shared it with some folks and it originally was supposed to be a stand alone novel but during my developmental edit, the editor said you have a lot to work with, you might want to consider breaking it up as a series and it was with her recommendation that I decided to split it up.”

The writer has a background in criminal justice “so I’ve always been drawn to organized crime, it is the Sopranos state and

after graduation I actually worked in life insurance investigating insurance fraud and later, I worked my way up to a litigation team and a lot of defense work and when I had my kids I had the opportunity to stay at home with them but I did a lot of business writing for 12 years.”

She added, “writing about a pandemic while living through one was particularly difficult. My research and outline for TTW was completed prior to the COVID-19 lockdowns.”“Therewere times in the last two years where I strongly considered changing these chapters or eliminating them completely from a reader-sensitivity standpoint. My only hope is that I did justice to those lives impacted in both outbreaks,” Quinn said.

Quinn is working with a few book stores in Monmouth County where she is hoping to do book signings this fall. She also has some library visits scheduled in the south Jersey area. “I love our state and I’d be happy to talk to readers everywhere.”

Sobriety Checkpoint Results In Four Arrests

By Alyssa Riccardi

POINT PLEASANT – A sobriety checkpoint conducted in town recently lead to four drivers arrested, police said.

The Point Pleasant Beach Police Department performed a DWI/DUI Sobriety Checkpoint on September 10 on Route 35 South in Point Pleasant Beach Officers. During that time, about 650 cars passed through with officers screening drivers for any signs of impairment.Asaresult, four arrests were made:

A 49-year-old female from Landing, NJ was charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Reckless Driving

A 50-year-old male from Myrtle Beach,

SC was charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Reckless Driving

A 74-year-old male from Brick, NJ was charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DW1), Reckless Driving, and Refusal to submit to a Breath Test

A 73-year-old female from Brick NJ was charged with Aggravated Assault on Law Enforcement and Resisting Arrest

The four people charged were later released on summonses pending a court date with Point Pleasant Beach Municipal Court.

It is presumed that all individuals charged are Innocent until proven guilty in court of law. All individuals charged. Page

Omarr’s

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Make sure you are always trustworthy. You might not always get your way in the week ahead, but few will doubt your sincerity. Sidestep occasional misunderstandings; don’t get pulled in to someone else’s circus.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): As you speed your way to the top in the week ahead, be careful not to trample on anyone’s toes. Consider whether what you are doing gives you real pleasure or is just something you doing for validation.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Crank up your enthusiasm and a competitive spirit without letting it stress you out. Remain levelheaded and don’t let your emotions dictate your actions as the week progresses. Focus on using your common sense.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Weigh out price versus value with care. It might be necessary to spend a little more to get something more satisfying in the week ahead. Concentrate on generosity to guarantee long-term security.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Put sound business tactics and strategies into action in the week to come. An adversary or loved one may not feel that some of the rules are fair or equitable. However, your gentle approach should convince them otherwise.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your inbox may be flooded with invitations in the upcoming week. Keep in close contact with neighbors and follow up on or social obligations. Real friends want you for more than your money and influence.

: You might

realize that you enjoy a change of pace and become intensely involved in something new and exciting. When necessary, you can ask for forgiveness but don’t take anything or anyone for granted in the week ahead.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Use willpower to overcome obstacles and sincerity to instill trust. Someone who is suspicious of your motives could be reassured in the week ahead. Always be wise enough to acknowledge the things you do not know.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Use skillful chess moves to take command of your side of the board. Since you likely have good judgment and a vision of what can be accomplished, this is a good week to focus on creating lasting financial security.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Work hard to increase your awareness, so you don’t overlook any mistakes or be blind to your own social blunders in the week to come. You might be inspired by a great piece of information.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): One trick to overcoming obstacles is patience and self-discipline. Focus on using organizational skills and diligence to become more efficient. Do not hesitate to grant someone a favor in the upcoming week.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A partner or loved one can provide the means that help you achieve your ends. As the week unfolds, there may be times you are not on the same wavelength. Wait until any distracting problem has been dealt with.

BLONDIES, THE PERFECT SWEET TREAT FOR A CROWD BLONDIE BITES

By America’s Test Kitchen

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2022 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.