2022-10-08 - The Southern Ocean Times

Zoning Board Sued For Denying Starbucks

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT – The developer and owner of property located across the street from the Acme on West Bay Avenue has filed a lawsuit against the township Zoning Board for denying a use variance and site plan approval that would have brought a Starbucks to the site.

The legal action, filed by Attorney Ken Davis on behalf of WP Barnegat, LLC, claims the local board made its decision based on what the developer calls “unsupported concerns about alleged increases in off-site traffic and traffic hazards.”

Although a Starbucks already exists within the Acme itself, Starbucks hoped to open a drive-thru and indoor/outdoor standalone building in the shopping center adjacent to the Heritage Bay retirement community. The site was previously owned and initially developed by Barnegat Land Associates and is specifically located at the intersection of West Bay Avenue and Sandpiper Road.

The Zoning Board denied the developer’s application on July 11 after listening to a series of expert witnesses who testified in support of the plan.

One of the issues focused on the prohibition of fast-food restaurants in that area of the township. A drive-through bank was originally planned for the location and met zoning requirements.

According to the lawsuit, the property is

(Zoning - See Page 4)

Lacey Athletic Complex Renamed After Legendary Football Coach

By Bob Vosseller

LACEY – The high school’s athletic complex has a new name, well suited to its football history.

School Board members approved - with full support of staff and administration - the naming of the Lacey Township High School athletic complex as Vircillo Stadium in honor of long-time Lacey High School Head Football Coach and teacher Louis A. Vircillo.

Superintendent Dr. Vanessa R. Pereira announced, “It is with great Lacey Pride that we celebrate the dedication and naming of the Lacey Township Football field Vircillo Stadium.”

The naming became official at a special dedication ceremony on August 26 where students, staff, former players, coaches and fans filled the stadium.

According to the district, Vircillo was hired on September 1, 1981,

(Coach - See Page 4)

Forked River Woman’s Compassion, Patriotism Recalled

By Bob Vosseller

LACEY – Forked River resident Agnes Joan Negra was 102-year-old when she died on September 9, at her home. She led an extraordinary life and her incredible life story was chronicled in the book “Waves of Hope.”

She was married to August

Edward Negra of Nutley on September 6, 1941. She was active with her husband for many years in civic and charitable organizations and dedicating themselves to the care of veterans.

The proudest moment of her life was a book written by her son, Ronald Negra. “Waves of

Hope” notes her extraordinary effort during World War II contacting American Prisoner of War families notifying them their soldiers were alive and in German prisoner camps.

Last year she was interviewed in an article for The Southern Ocean Times where

(Woman - See Page 5)

Man Accused Of Killing Son Appears In Court

By Stephanie Faughnan TOMS RIVER The father indicted for the murder of his six-yearold son, Corey Micciolo, made his first in-person court appearance on October 4, before Judge Guy Ryan in

(Court - See Page 16)

–Photo courtesy Lacey Schools

Long time Lacey High School Head Football Coach Louis Vircillo enjoys the dedication ceremony held in his honor that changed the name of the football field to Vircillo Stadium.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Christopher Gregor is charged with murder and child endangerment of his son, Corey Micciolo.

Zoning:

Continued From Page 1

part of the Town Center Neighborhood Commercial Overlay Zone which was established as part of the 2011 Master Plan. The ordinance creating the zone was described with an intent to “encourage compact, mixed-use development that provides more efficient traffic and pedestrian circulation and reduces auto dependency to the extent possible.”

Tenants that currently occupy space in the shopping center include AutoZone, Dollar General, Domino’s Pizza and an AT&T store.

Even before the shopping center broke ground, community members expressed

their outrage at its construction. Some of the residents of Heritage Bay were surprised to learn the development’s original plans called for a shopping center to face West Bay Avenue.

Construction of the Starbucks was intended to constitute Phase 3 of the shopping center development. The planned 2,225 square foot Starbucks would have a drive-thru access. An outdoor patio would also be available for patrons to sit outside and enjoy their favorite beverage.

WP Barnegat contends that the drive-thru portion of the Starbucks would be completely contained. Even in its busiest times, the developer said vehicles would not back up onto any highways or inhibit the free flow of traffic.

The developer further dismissed the idea

that menu boards and lights of vehicles would disturb residents of the adjacent community.

During the zoning board hearing, WP Barnegat presented testimony from Nathan Mosley, a traffic consultant. The lawsuit states that due to the “pass-by” nature of its business, Starbucks would not appreciably increase the number of vehicles traveling through the area.

Instead, the traffic expert said the new Starbucks would cause some motorists, who were already on the road, to briefly stop at the establishment. Mosley said the Starbucks would also bring Barnegat closer to its zoning goal and intent, as it would encourage people to congregate, interact, and have more activity.

The resolution adopted by the zoning board concluded that the developer “has not proved any specific/special reasons why the project is particularly suited and would promote the general public [and] has also failed to prove that the project would not impair the intent and purpose of the Zone Plan and Zoning Ordinance.”

According to the lawsuit, even further language contained in the denial, failed to indicate a basis for the zoning board’s conclusions.

The goal of the lawsuit is to reverse the denial of the application or have the court grant Starbucks the right to proceed.

While Barnegat officials do not comment on pending litigation, the next step is filing an answer to the complaint.

Coach:

Continued From Page 1 as a physical education teacher and head football coach. In those roles, he has always displayed dignity and respect for these positions.

The district also notes that throughout his 42 years of service as a teacher, mentor and coach, Vircillo has received numerous accolades, which includes more than 300 varsity wins and led his players to four New Jersey State Championships and 15 Conference titles.

“Vircillo instills integrity, hard work,

loyalty, pride, and, most of all, tradition in all of his players and because of this lifetime of distinguished work, has received many achievements over the course of his career,” read the resolution naming the complex.

Those achievements include membership to the Shore Football Coaches Foundation Hall of Fame in 2012 and the NJ Football Coaches Association Ray McCrann Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. The resolution also notes that he “has worked tirelessly through the Lacey Football Foundation to allocate over $850,000 to the Lacey Township

School District facilities, athletics, and students.”

Lacey Athletic Director Aimee Del Vento Evans told The Southern Ocean Times that “Lou Vircillo is the true definition of Lacey Pride. His 42 years of employment as a coach and teacher are unmatched; not only because of the number of years, but the dedication and hard work he has put into those years.

“He has developed the pride and traditions that have become the foundation of Lacey athletics. His 300 wins as a head coach are just one of the accolades he has accomplished in his illustrious coaching

career, as well as multiple conference and state championships,” she added.

Del Vento Evans said, “not only is he a celebrated coach, he is also a dedicated member of our school community. The Football Foundation, which was created by him, has fundraised over a million dollars throughout his tenure that gone towards Lacey Athletics, the Lacey Township School District, and special education.”

“He is a pillar of our community and is a core part of Lacey Township. We are immeasurably lucky to have Coach Vircillo as a lifelong Lacey Lion,” she said.

Continued From Page 1 she recalled her use of a shortwave radio, listening every evening to Radio Berlin as the German government began announcing the names of American B17 Flyer prisoners of war.

She told The Southern Ocean Times that her efforts had their origins from her childhood. Her father’s boat capsized “and they said my dad was missing and as a kid, I didn’t understand what was happening, but a few weeks later my father came to the door. He had been rescued by some people trawling in the Atlantic off of Boston. Thank God he came back home. I always thought of that.”

Remembering how it felt not to know what became of your loved one led her to take action years later during World War II. “I was listening to the news every night when World War II broke out.”

“I would send postcards to the families. My brother Johnny was missing in action. His plane (a B-17 Gunner) was hit and he was missing and I was hoping to hear his name. The next week I started getting cards from some of the people I wrote to. ‘Thank you for listening and giving us hope that our son is okay.’”

She was contacted by the POW families from all over America expressing their gratitude and giving them hope they would see their loved ones again.

Her efforts only became known a few years ago when her son discovered a box of the POW family letters that was sealed

after the war. “Her letter was the fi rst word that their son was okay or their husband or brother,” her son said.

He added, “the letters she received were in her attic for decades. I said to her ‘We never heard about this mom.’ I said start from the beginning because I had no idea what she was talking about. She told us the story and we started reading the letters and they were very emotional. I decided I wanted to document this for her 100th birthday in 2019.”

He added that his mother “never expected to get responses back. They kept coming in and she would read them and feel the emotions that people had expressed. They had anxiety but of all the emotions they had, they had hope.”

Negra’s daughter-in-law Valerie Negra noted that some of the prisoners themselves got to speak during the broadcast providing their name and home town on Radio Berlin.

Negra’s husband joined the Army and became part of the 94th Infantry and was wounded at the Battle of the Bulge. Ironically, he was missing in action. “Mom continued to listen on the short-wave radio hoping she’d hear my father or my father’s brother-in-law John who was also missing,” Ronald Negra said.

He added that his father had been wounded and left for dead. “The Belgian underground rescued him and hid him. He was pretty badly injured and they got a doctor to look after him in Belgium. They got him back to the American lines and brought him to a newly formed field hospital in France.

My father tried to get word to my mother that he was alive.”

That notice reached his mother in a letter from a French nurse which had to be translated. “She brought it to my father’s high school French teacher Helen Gerdnick and that is how she found out that my father was alive,” he added.

In 2021, after “Waves of Hope” was published, she received the prestigious Daughters of the American Revolution “Women in History Award” as the book was nominated and accepted into the DAR National Library in Washington D.C.

She was named in the World War II Memorial in the nation’s capital, as a “Homefront Hero” for her dedication to POW families.

Negra is survived by her daughter Patricia Ann Lerner and her husband Robert, and her son Ronald Edward Negra and his wife Valerie; also, grandchildren Dr. Jason Todd Lerner and his wife Kelli; and Jennifer Lynn Losee and her husband James, as well as great grandchildren Ella Lerner, Chase Lerner, and Gavin Losee. Also, her brother Joseph Verdi, and sisters Pauline Criscuoli and Rose Lombarski as well as her health aide and friend Rosemary Ramos, 29 nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews.

At her request, contributions can be made in her name to Boys Town at boystown.org or mailed to Boys Town, P.O. Box 8000, Boys Town, NE 68010 or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

DITORIAL

The Importance Of Community – 27 Years Of Micromedia

Let us power up our time machine and head back to April, 1995.

The world was glued to the O.J. Simpson trial. “Bad Boys” with Will Smith – pre-Oscar slap –topped the box office. Gas for the car averaged 90 cents a gallon. The internet was slow as molasses. Cell phones weighed a ton, not everyone had them yet and if you did, you could only make calls. No social media. No Google! If you were doing research, you had to go to a place called the library.

Some of you reading this may have been working, raising children, learning your ABCs or having your diapers changed –others may not have been a twinkle yet.

In the basement of a home in Pine Lake Park, former copy machine salesman Stew Swann and his Jane-of-all-trades niece Robyn Laird were making history – creating the first edition of The Manchester Times

They were aided by Stew’s late wife Alice, who showed her unconditional love and support through the entire inception of Micromedia Publications – and let’s not forget Fluffy – the cat who kept a watchful eye on the process, while at the same time, terrorizing Robyn. And now we’re going BACK TO THE FUTURE!

It’s 27 years later and Micromedia now has seven weekly newspapers,

three hyperlocal news websites, thousands of readers, many loyal advertisers and the respect from the local government and communities we serve.

Our print newspapers are everywhere, we have over 100,000 social media followers, we’re on the Newsbreak app, Google News, Apple News, on radio spots and have a billboard in the Ocean County Mall.

Micromedia has an incredibly talented staff who are dedicated to the mission statement the company was founded on: the importance of community.

The commitment to the management, design, the fair and balanced journalism, the sales and distribution of our products has never been interrupted – even through a global crisis.

I can say with great confidence that our readers and advertisers are getting a fantastic product each and every week and each and every day online.

While other local media outlets continue to fold, Micromedia prevails as our company President Stew Swann puts his staff and products above profits. The company’s survival has always been his top priority and we hope to be here for another 27 years and beyond.

Jason Allentoff Vice President/COO Micromedia Publications

Preserve Columbus Day Holiday

This letter is in reference to Toms River Schools being in school on Columbus Day. Why you have the U.S. flag on your school building or in your school yard.

In 1891 Francis Bellamy was hired to work for Youth’s Champion, a family patriotic magazine. Bellamy was assigned to the promotion department where he began a massive patriotic program for schools across the country. The program was to coincide with the opening ceremonies of the Columbian Exposition at the World Fair in Chicago, Illinois in recognition of the 400th Anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s historic discovery. Bellay wrote the “Pledge of Allegiances” which was to be part of the program and was to be recited in unison by all public schools across the country.

Bellamy was successful in lobbying Congress to pass a resolution endorsing his program. He was instrumental in convening President Benjamin Harrison to issue a proclamation declaring Columbus Day a holiday.

Thanks to Bellamy schools across this country proudly fly the flag of the United States of America. We should also be thankful that Christopher Columbus has the vision and courage to sail in uncharted waters and discovered a new continent on which this country was born.

Letters To The Editor

His name is embedded and referenced in the history of our nation. God bless Columbus and God bless the United States of America.

Charles Pisano Jersey Shore

Candidate Runs With “No Strings Attached”

Hello residents of Lanoka Harbor and Forked River!

Your Lacey volunteer public advocate is now running for a seat on the Lacey Township Committee.

My campaign is not accepting ANY contributions. I have decided to run using my own funds. My slogan is “No Strings Attached.”

As a resident of Lacey for over 23 years, I have witnessed firsthand the changes the township has been through.

For nearly 20 years I have attended Township Committee meetings, Lacey Municipal Utilities Authority meetings, School Board meetings and Planning Board meetings. Sometimes also the Board of Adjustment. More recently I have been attending the Municipal Alliance meetings and this past year I have been going to Toms River for the Ocean County Commissioner meetings.

I served 2 terms on the school board and was a member of the Municipal Alliance for a few years as well.

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The Southern Ocean 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.

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Lacey needs to examine its conscience and the Master Plan. More citizens need to attend meetings and voice their opinions. The Township Master Plan is soon due for review.

The Township Committee meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month in the Municipal Building on Lacey Road at 6:30 p.m.

Please try to attend. Lacey’s future depends on ALL of us. Please vote November 8thRegina Discenza for Lacey Township Committee.

Regina Discenza

Forked River Independent Candidate for Lacey Township Committee

Barnegat’s Overdevelopment Can Be Fixed

There has been an explosion of construction in Barnegat Township these last 8 years. My opponent, Al Bille, claims the overdevelopment is good for the Township coffers, yet municipal taxes have risen each year. Since my opponent was elected the Municipal Budget has risen over 9 million dollars and the Municipal Tax Rate has increased 23.5%.

The overdevelopment has caused a strain on infrastructure. Roads are failing, lack of residential water pressure, flooding, increased traffic, and congestion are just a few issues.

that the Township can’t stop the builders from building, there is nothing the Committee can do about nearby runoff/flooding, and they can’t afford to repair or upgrade the Township’s infrastructure. This is not acceptable.

Residents are justifiably angry about these issues. They regularly address the Committee at Township meetings and post on social media…. some feel the Township Committee does not hear their voice…or worse…they may not care.

My opponent has even told the residents not to read Barnegat social media and he even convinced the Committee to have a referendum which could prohibit all signs on public property.

It’s time for a new approach and new ideas. It’s time for Barnegat to have new representation. It’s time for change!

I plan to focus intently on these issues. I promise to hear your voice and listen to your concerns and convince the Committee to address your concerns. I ask for your support and your vote. Please elect me to the Barnegat Township Committee in 2022.

Charles Cunliffe Barnegat

Why Did GOP Vote Against Lowering Insulin?

Southern Ocean Times

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to

edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

Builders are allowed to clearcut tracts of land well before construction begins…some have been cleared and idle for 4+ years. This clearing has caused runoff which has resulted in erosion & flooding in adjacent neighborhoods.

The new high-density housing has also caused flooding in existing neighborhoods.

Residents also question why the same type of commercial development is repeatedly approved when so many strip malls sit vacant.

When Barnegat residents confront the Committee with these issues, the response is,

I’m trying to see if anyone can answer this very important question? Why did Republicans block a law to cap the cost of insulin to $35 a month?

Thankfully, they didn’t touch Medicare patients. We still got the insulin price reduction. But if I was on a private insurance company, I wouldn’t. How is that fair? Why are insurance companies more important to Republicans than patients?

Please remember this when it comes to vote. Please remember that Democrats are the ones who put forward cutting the cost of insulin for seniors on Medicare.

Thank you for listening.

you have something you want everyone know?

there an issue that needs

Dora Shellman

Capitol Comments

S

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both-DN.J.) joined several of the colleagues in the Senate in presenting two bills that would make it easier for Americans all across the country to register to vote and to know their registration status. The Same Day Voter Registration Act would require states to offer same day registration at polling locations on Election Day and during early voting. The Stop Automatically Voiding Eligible Voters Off Their Enlisted Rolls in States (SAVE VOTERS) Act would prohibit states from removing people from their voting rolls unless the state has obtained objective, reliable evidence that a voter is ineligible to vote and establishes notification requirements once a voter is removed.

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy announced on September 29 that he had authorized 135 New Jersey National Guardsmen for deployment to Florida to support relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian, which made landfall September 28 as a Category 4 storm. In addition, 40 military and support vehicles will be sent to assist in the hurricane storm response.

Assistance is provided through the Emergency Management Assistant Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid agreement allowing states and territories to share resources in response to natural and man-made disasters. Governor Murphy accepted the EMAC this morning authorizing the mission to Florida.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Florida right now as they begin their journey to recovery from Hurricane Ian,” said Governor Murphy. “We are thankful for the 135 men and women who bravely volunteered to travel down to Florida to assist with hurricane aid and relief efforts. We are…prepared to provide more support where needed.”

“The New Jersey National Guard has an important history of being ‘Always Ready,

O N G

Bills Would Make Voting Easier

These bills were included as part of the Freedom to Vote Act, voting rights legislation support by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus.

“The right to vote, a fundamental building block of American democracy, is under attack by extreme Republicans who are determined to make it harder to vote for communities of color, seniors, and young voters,” said Sen. Menendez. “Given this coordinated assault against our right to vote, I am honored to support these common-sense bills that will expand access to the ballot box for all Americans and will protect them from any effort that would make it harder for them to exercise their right to vote.”

“The right to vote is essential for the future of our democracy and our ideals of liberty and justice for all,” said Sen. Booker. “But for years, this right has been systematically undermined and new barriers have been implemented to make it more difficult for people, especially low-income and minority communities, to exercise their right to vote.

I am proud to support these commonsense measures that will expand and protect one of our most fundamental rights.”

The Same Day Voter Registration Act would:

Require states to offer same day registration at polling locations on Election Day and during any early voting period; Require states to offer same day registration at all polling places by the 2026 general election, but create a waiver process to give states until the 2028 general election to comply if earlier compliance would be impracticable.

Mandate that states have at least one location per 15,000 registered voters with same day registration by the 2024 general election;

Ensure that centralized same day registration locations are reasonably located to serve the voting population equitably.

The SAVE VOTERS Act would:

• Amend the National Voter Registration Act to prohibit states from removing people from voting rolls unless the state has obtained objective and reliable evidence that a person is ineligible to vote. The legislation

NJ Sends National Guard To Florida

Always There.’ Whether it was Superstorm Sandy, watching over our nation’s capital, or assisting during the COVID-19 pandemic, our citizen soldiers and airmen have distinguished themselves when our communities needed them most. This will be no different,” said Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., Adjutant General of New Jersey. “Our hearts are with the families of all affected by this hurricane.”

“Hurricane Ian made landfall…and created a path of destruction with dangerous winds and catastrophic flooding that has left the residents of Florida in need of assistance, and New Jersey has answered the

call,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “The New Jersey National Guard will be sending resources and personnel to Florida to assist them on their road to recovery. Our prayers are with the residents of Florida and everyone affected by this storm.”

Hurricane Ian made landfall in south-

would clarify that failure to vote or respond to election mail would not constitute objective and reliable evidence of a voter’s ineligibility to vote;

• Allow election officials to use state records to remove voters who have died or permanently moved out of the state;

• Require election officials to send a notice explaining the grounds for removal within 48 hours of removing voters from the rolls and provide public notice within 48 hours after any general program to remove voters;

• Revise the voting procedure for a voter who failed to report a change of address by allowing a voter who moved within a state to vote at the polling place of the voter’s current address or at a central location in the jurisdiction of the local voter registration office.

Both bills are endorsed by Democracy 21, Transparency International U.S., End Citizens United/Let America Vote Action Fund, Common Cause, Public Citizen, People for the American Way, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, 20/20 Vision DC, Voices for Progress, and the League of Women Voters.

west Florida as a Category 4 storm with sustained winds of up to 150 mph in the eye of the storm. The storm continued to move north, causing tremendous damage and danger to those in its path, slowly downgrading to a tropical storm. Millions of Floridians were without power and in dangerous conditions.

HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

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732.286.7929

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Senator Robert Menendez

Swollen eyelids can happen for a myriad of reasons, from staying up too late to accidentally sleeping on your face. If it seems to be a recurring problem, however, and you can’t pinpoint a cause, you may have a condition called blepharitis. The condition is not contagious, nor is it typically dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable, causing burning, itching, and leaking. In some cases, it can be a sign of a more serious condition such as pink eye, issues with your cornea, or chronic dry eye, but it can also mean you simply aren’t changing your contacts frequently enough. Avoiding blepharitis will most likely involve some form or eye drops or a change in your cleansing routine.

The key to treating most types of blepharitis is keeping the lids clean and free of crusts. Applying warm compresses can loosen the crusts. Then gently scrub the eyelids with a mixture of water and baby shampoo or an over-the-counter lid cleansing product. SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES offers a full range of care for your eyes, from your yearly vision exam to the treatment of medical eye conditions. To make an appointment, please call 732-349-5622.

Avoid wearing contact lenses

C

Fundraiser For Local Child

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By Chris Lundy BARNEGAT – Members of the community are rallying for a local boy who suffered an accident and is undergoing serious medical treatment.

Shane McKeown was in an accident on his bicycle, according to those who posted

about the incident on the Facebook page of the Barnegat Little League. Coaches described him as a great kid who is full of life.

Friends of the family will be collecting gift cards to local restaurants as well as Venmo donations @Dennis-Lutz-1.

Nonpro ts: How To Build A Board at Is Active

MANAHAWKIN – In time for fall planning, the Southern Ocean Chamber has announced the November 7 Fall Non-Profit Forum, Mission & Governance Tune-up: Building a Board that is Active (and legal), for an in-person audience with a virtual presentation from Brian Crockett that will encourage Ocean County nonprofits to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their governance practices. This session will take up topics such as recruiting and activating new Board members, governance basics, fundraising roles, staying strategic, and how to have fun along the way.

For over a decade we have presented informative forums created to engage local non-profit organizations that serve the Long Beach Island Region. Working

independently, Brian Crockett employs a broad network of local and national professionals who care about the rich intersection of informal education, equitable access, nonprofit professionalism, and cultural innovation. He uses unorthodox means to engage cultural organizations of all sizes, seeking tangible outcomes that yield sustainability, trigger innovation, and change lives.

The event will take place on November 7 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Stockton University at Manahawkin.

Advance RSVP is required. There is no fee to attend, but the organization representative must register with our office by calling 609-494-7211 or emailing Kate@ sochamber.com.

Sta ord Township Women’s Club

At e Sur ight eater

STAFFORD – Join the Stafford Township Women’s Club at The Surfl ight Theater, 1:30 p.m. on December 6, to see the 2 p.m. matinee of Irving Berlin’s musical “White Christmas.” Tickets are $37 each, payable to Stafford Township Women’s

Club (STWC). Tickets provided in the lobby the day of the show. Dinner, at a local restaurant, is planned immediately following the show; each person pays separately. Call Laury Hamilton at 732407-2244, for reservations.

Photo courtesy Barnegat Little League

“Now And en” Paintings By Local Artist

BARNEGAT – The Ocean County Library Barnegat Branch is pleased to present “Now and Then,” an exhibit of paintings by local artist Robert Organes, during the month of October.

The display marks Robert’s return to the Barnegat Branch as a contributing artist. He has also exhibited in regional juried shows and galleries in northern New Jersey.

Robert attended Newark Fine and Industrial Art School. He applies acrylics to canvas and board.

“[Painting feels] like a puzzle,” Robert has said of his work. “Trying to make all the pieces fit and succeed is one of my life’s greatest rewards.”

“Now and Then” is open to the public and

Photo courtesy Ocean County Library

free of charge. Registration is not required to view the exhibit. For more information, visit the Branch, 112 Burr Street, call 609698-3331, or visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events.

Halloween Ghost Walk

LACEY – Meet the real ghosts of Lacey! The Lacey Historical Society will host a Halloween Program suitable for families with younger children.

The event will be held October 7 and October 8 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. rain or shine on the haunted grounds of the Old Schoolhouse Museum.

Come out and enjoy multiple fi re pits, storytellers, refreshments, pumpkin

games, trivia giveaways, pumpkin decorating and a historical spooky play.

Tickets will be $4 in advance and $5 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at register.capturepoint.com/ laceytownship.

They are located at 126 South Main Street (Route 9) behind Mrs. Walker’s Ice Cream Forked River. If you have questions, email them to Laceyhistorical@gmail.com.

Garden Club Teaches Flower Arranging

LONG BEACH ISLAND – On September 21, the Garden Club of LBI joined forces with children at Long Beach Island School to create fall flower arrangements. A total of 25 3rd graders met in the gym of their school with 12 Garden Club members for an hour of learning the rudiments of flower arranging. This included learning about flowers and greenery, how to cover an oasis, and how to keep an arrangement healthy.

The students started with mini loaf dishes marked “Fall is My Favorite Color.” They added layers of greenery such as boxwood, euonymus and rosemary brought from the gardens of club members. Carnations in fall colors of orange, yellow, cream and sparkling white enhanced the designs. Children enthusiastically learned how to “puff ” into a flower bud to open it. A tiny paper pumpkin topped off the arrangements, ready to take home!

The school program originally included bringing a grandparent or special person to share. This feature was changed due to covid, but the program continues with

teachers and Garden Club members. It is part of the club’s dedication to promote good gardening and horticultural practices.

The Garden Club’s agenda also includes environmental programs, tree planting, college scholarships, maintenance of three public gardens, May Day celebrations, food bank support, military support, and programs for seniors and students.

Funds for this important work is generated by ticket sales of the annual Holiday House Tour, this year scheduled for December 8, and the outside Garden Tour next spring.

As they proudly picked up their arrangements, Bev Reitinger, chair of the club and former Garden Club president said, “Each and every design was unique. Fun was had by all and the children and teachers were so appreciative.”

The next flower arranging program is scheduled for October 19, for 3rd through 6th graders, after school at the Surf City Library.

Information about all the Garden Club’s activities and how to join are on the website, thegardenclubofl bi.com.

Flu And COVID Vaccine Clinic

LACEY – Lacey Township Community Hall, 101 North Main Street Forked River, will be holding a vaccine clinic.

Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome for vaccinations. You can make an appointment online at ochd.org. If you need additional information, contact the Ocean County Health Department at 1-732-341-9700.

Times and dates are as follows: October 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. November 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

December 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

December 20, 2 to 6 p.m.

Vaccinations - All COVID vaccines will be available (1st & 2nd doses & boosters) - Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. Bring your vaccination card as they must be presented for proper documentation of COVID doses. Appts are preferred but not necessary: ochd.org.

Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson boosters available. All COVID-19 vaccines offered at all flu clinics.

Vendors Wanted For Holiday Festival

LACEY – Lacey Recreation Department is looking for vendors for their new Holiday Festival taking place on December 3.

They would like to welcome local shop owners, craft makers, food vendors, etc., to sell their products at the Holiday

Festival. The fee to have a booth is $50. They provide to you a 10’ by 10’ space but it is up to the business to provide the table, chairs and/or tent if desired.

If you are interested in becoming a vendor, contact the Lacey Recreation Department at mjones@laceytownship.org.

Photo courtesy Garden Club of LBI

Southern Ocean Medical Center Honors Mancini Family

STAFFORD – To honor and recognize the Mancini family’s significant role in making Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center possible 50 years ago, Southern Ocean Medical Center Foundation hosted a celebratory luncheon where Mayor Mancini was presented with a plaque. Pictured from left to right is Robert Mancini, Long Beach Township Mayor Joseph Mancini, Julie Mancini and Ryan Mancini (front).

–Photo courtesy Southern Ocean Medical Center

Yard Sale & Vendor Fair Fundraiser

BARNEGAT – A Yard Sale & Vendor Fair fundraiser for the PTA will be held at the Lillian M. Dunfee School on November 21 at 9 a.m.

Take this opportunity to clean out the house and especially the play room. Taking donations of saleable items only: gently

used or new clothing, tools, kitchen/housewares, toys and games, furniture.

Rent a table for only $10 and have your own yard sale. Vendor table for your home business are $25.

For more information or to arrange a drop off, contact Ted at 732-322-4992.

Chowderfest Postponed By Weather

By Chris Lundy

LONG BEACH ISLAND – With the heavy winds and rains expected this weekend, Chowderfest has been postponed.

The new date hasn’t been approved but the organizers are looking at October 15 with a rain date of October 16.

“As with all local organizers, this scenario has become a common occurrence, as storm

events and flooding is now very much a part of our coastal community,” Chowderfest organizers said. “We appreciate your support as we move forward. The new date will be confi rmed shortly as plans are underway to coordinate this event to mark the 10th anniversary of Superstorm Sandy as well as to raise attention to coastal resiliency and award Chowder trail champions.”

MANCHESTER TIMES

TIMES

BERKELEY TIMES

HOWELL TIMES

BRICK TIMES

TOMS RIVER TIMES

SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

Allentoff

Vosseller

Hoban

Toscano

Gradzki

Adriana Starcic

Check out Micromedia Publications’ website, jerseyshoreonline.com

H ERE

S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

How Colds, e Flu & Covid 19 A ects Hearing

It’s been well over 2 years, and the Covid 19 variants are still wreaking havoc in our area. For the most part, the new variants just present with “cold-like” symptoms but the rate of infection spread is typically higher than the common cold. Unfortunately, once you start to exhibit symptoms such as a sore throat, headache, sinus pressure, post nasal drip, etc., you already have Covid 19 and more than likely you have spread the germs to others. Many individuals are taking in home rapid tests and are commonly “negative” for a few days before the result is positive.

In my opinion, this is reason enough to frequently wash your hands, don a mask (when in large in group events), and get vaccinated. Unless you physician recommends otherwise, vaccinated individuals typically experience a significant reduction of Covid 19 symptoms and the recovery time is generally less.

Upper respiratory viruses often create fluid buildup in the middle ear, leading to congestion, pain, muffled sound, and secondary infections. The flu virus has been

known to affect the auditory nerve, which can cause permanent hearing loss. Similar to the flu, COVID-19 has shown an alarming ability to attack the hearing and vestibular systems, although the exact reason is still under investigation. Patients with long-haul COVID are at increased risk. Luckily, serious hearing damage from viral infections is rare, though the temporary effects are uncomfortable — stuffiness, dizziness, tinnitus, and ear infections could put a damper on your future holiday plans.

If you have experienced hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo during a bout of COVID 19 and these symptoms are continuing to “linger” I would contact your hearing healthcare professional for a complete hearing and dizziness evaluation. Protect your hearing by supporting your health!

Dr. Izzy and his Staff 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.gardenstatehearing.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!

S T O Y

H EALTH Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

6 Natural Blood Thinning Foods

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

People experiencing blood clots are occurring at an unprecedented rate these days! Blood becomes thicker than normal when a protein called fibrinogen increases. Its main task is to generate a mesh network of platelets so that they aggregate. This stops blood flow. You want fibrinogen around because otherwise, you’d bleed to death from a minor cut. But too much fibrinogen creates platelet clumping, and thus a clot that blocks blood flow.

One of the main ways that your blood becomes thicker than it should involves a protein called fibrinogen. Fibrinogen is one of several proteins that assist in the coagulation process. Its specific job is to generate networks of fibers that link platelets together to stop blood flow. We need adequate levels of fibrinogen to stop bleeding when we are injured. However, elevated fibrinogen levels are associated with excessive clotting and slower blood flow which makes the heart work harder. Oxygen flow throughout the body is reduced, therefore fatigue and weakness become suddenly more significant.

I’ve never before seen anything like this. It used to be just people who with risk factors developed a clot, but again, something has changed making people who would never be at risk, to be at risk!

The typical risk factors used to be: Smoking or long history of nicotine use Pregnancy

A hospitalization

Being sedentary

Use of estrogen-containing hormones

Advanced age

Elevated CRP Cancer

We can add new risk factors now such as activation of ACE receptors, history of a serious viral infection such as COVID, myocarditis as well as others not listed here.

If a clot develops, a piece of it can break off and that’s where the danger lies. The broken-off part can travel through the bloodstream and lodge somewhere it shouldn’t, such as in the lungs. If this happens the term used is pulmonary embolism. Symptoms of this include chest pain, coughing, difficulty with respiration, heart rhythm changes, bloody sputum, or shortness of breath.

If part of the clot breaks off and lands in or around the brain, it can cause a stroke. The risk of heart attack increases as well.

Natural Blood Thinners

Turmeric

Ginger Garlic

Grape seed Ginkgo biloba Nattokinase

A blood clot can lead to a fatal consequence, and it is a silent killer so I thought it would be nice for you to know about natural options such as foods and herbal options. Please discuss any changes to your medication or supplement regimen with your physician as natural anticoagulants interact with prescribed ones and can cause easy bruising and even hemorrhage. There is more information at an article called “Understanding Blood Clots.” This is posted on the CDC’s website. I also have a longer version with more natural options posted at my website, suzycohen.com.

information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose

24-Hour

“Real

condition.

Court: Continued From Page 1

Ocean County Superior Court.

All of Gregor’s prior hearings, including the entry of his “not guilty” plea, have been conducted by remote access from the Ocean County Jail, where he remains in custody.

At least three dozen spectators showed up to catch a glimpse of Gregor in person during a short status conference overseen by Judge Ryan. Among them were Gregor’s family and friends, who have not attended prior hearings at the courthouse.

Corey’s mother, Breanna Micciolo, and grandmother, Rebecca Micciolo, have attended all of the proceedings – often, with an entourage of supporters. At the most recent appearance, court officials told the group that signs would not be permitted into the courtroom. Additionally, all onlookers received instructions to maintain order, or they would be asked to leave.

Not one person disobeyed the directives, although the tension among the parties was palpable.

Gregor stood with two other defendants in the space normally reserved for jurors.

Dressed in green striped prison clothes, his long hair now cropped short, Gregor stared straight ahead with an occasional glance to his lawyer during the proceedings.

Attorney Mario Gallucci represents Gregor on the murder and child endangerment charges lodged against him. Judge Ryan asked Gallucci to provide an update on an expert report that would dispute claims that Gregor caused Corey’s death. Reports indicate the first-grade boy died as a result of blunt force impact to the chest and abdomen.

“We just received the grand jury minutes about two weeks ago,” said Gallucci. “He (the expert) has reviewed almost all of the medical records and wants to look at the grand jury minutes.”

Gallucci said the expert also plans to review an updated amended autopsy report and Grub Hub records. The defendant’s attorney said he would send out the information out by the end of the week and anticipated the expert would submit a report within the next 2-3 weeks.

Assistant Prosecutor Christine Lento reminded the court that Gallucci had indicated he planned to make a court application to secure State Division of Child Protection and Permanency records. She expressed her concerns that the procedure often involves a lengthy process, which includes the court reviewing the records.

“I have a number of those records already provided to me by the prosecution and the family, my client,” Gallucci said. “I do not know if I’m going to file the motion, but I don’t think that it’s going to hold up your proceedings.”

Judge Ryan suggested that the defense attorney should still file the motion in case it became necessary to address the records during the course of trial.

Gregor is scheduled to make his next in-person court appearance on November 1st. Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.

Woman’s Club

STAFFORD – The Stafford Township

Woman’s Club meetings are 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., the fourth Wednesday through June, at the Community Center, 260 East Bay Ave, Manahawkin. Join to start new friendships, to get involved in community activities and to share your ideas. Call Karen at 732-6168699 for further information.

R.C.

&

The Law

Beware Of The Do-It-Yourself Will

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

It happens several times each year, a client walks into my office with a document entitled “Last Will and Testament” and asks me to review it. The document is always a will that the client attempted to draft on his or her own. In some cases they used a form book from the library, in other cases they used an online service or a software program which they purchased. In a few instances, they will attempt to copy another will, either their own prior will or someone else’s. In almost every instance, the document does not meet the requirements for a will in the State of New Jersey putting them in a position where they either have no will at all or which requires a court to interpret the document for them, which could cost their estates a lot of money.

I believe that drafting your own will is like trying to remove your own gall bladder. There is a small chance that you may do it right, but there is a far greater chance that you won’t. In over 100 do-it-yourself wills that I have reviewed, not one was a valid will that would have been probated with the Surrogate’s office. When I ask the client why they attempted to draft their own will, the most common answer I receive is that they wanted to save money. Other times they will tell me that they wrote the will themselves because an attorney refused to prepare the will they way they wanted it. In one instance a client told me he drafted his own will because he did not understand the “legalese” he saw in wills and he wanted a will that he and his family could understand.

Looking at the various reasons why people draft their own wills I find that most of them are not valid. As noted, the most common reason people try to make their own wills is to save money. This is most often an illusion. In Ocean County the average cost of preparing a will varies from $100 to $200. The cost of having to go to court if the will is not drafted property can be as high as $2,500 to $3,000.

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

In a worst-case scenario, the court may rule that there is no will at all, thus subjecting the estate to go through administration, where the cost of posting a surety bond could easily exceed $1,000.00 each year in an average estate. Clearly, any savings of trying to write your own will could be wiped out by the potential costs if the will is not drafted properly. Some people will try to draft wills themselves because they want to put in certain wording. In some cases, the wording that they are trying to put in their wills is either illegal, impractical or impossible to carry out. For example, one client wanted to leave all the assets to the executor named in the will and let the executor determine how the assets should be divided. In other words, the executor would be making the very decisions that the maker of the will should have made.

Finally, wills are drafted by attorneys using terms and concepts that date back to medieval England. Those terms and concept have a specific meaning in the law. Often those terms are not readily understood by the non-lawyer. By attempting to draft a will using common English, in many cases a person will create an ambiguity that can only be resolved by a court at great expense to the person’s estate.

In one case, when faced with two conflicting clauses concerning the payment of death taxes and not understanding either clause, the client put both clauses into the will and said let the executor decide which clause should apply. One can only imagine what the Internal Revenue Service would have done with that logic.

Your will is the most important document you will ever sign. It only makes sense to have it prepared by an attorney knowledgeable in estate law rather than try to do it yourself. The modest cost of having an attorney prepare the will is offset by the potential costs if the will is not drafted properly.

CLASSIFIEDS

For Rent

Seaside Park - Beautiful, Oceanfront, 2 bedroom, super clean and quiet. No pets. $2,500/month, security, credit check required. 908-278-5491. (40)

Seeking Home

APARTMENT WANTED - For senior healthy female 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

House Sale, Entire Contents Must Go - 39 Glenn Drive, Manahawkin. October 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (43)

Auto Wanted

Looking For Low Mileage CarFor my teenage grandson. He will treasure it in his memory as his first car. 732-849-5310. (44)

Estate

Estate Sale All Must GoCall 732-267-6232. (42)

Personals

Senior Single Males 70+ WantedFor friendship, companionship for single senior females must have good morals standards 732-6786786 will return call. (43)

Items For Sale

Kayaks Santee Sport 126 - Red/ WH $650. antee Sport 116 orange/ WH $650. Excellent condition. Light weight, epic paddle included. 732-673-7072. (42)

PUERTO RICAN PASTELES - Holiday Tradition. Pork or Chicken. Made weekly/Vacuum Sealed. Call/text Cary 908770-8537. $40 dozen. (43)

Items

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104 (44)

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)

Help Wanted

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 between the Infant through School Age classrooms. No teaching experience necessary. On-the-job training provided. Multiple PT and FT positions available. Call 732-363-5530 or email dtoms river2nj3@goddardschools.com to schedule an interview today! (t/n)

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

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 cleaning, laundry, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

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

Computer Tutoring for Seniors –

Retired, “Microsoft Certified” instructor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

DOWLING FENCE LLC - WE'VE RECENTLY MOVED TO TOMS RIVER! CALL US FOR ALL YOUR FENCING NEEDS. RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL, BEST PRICING AND WORKMANSHIP! CALL 732-771-5150 OR 732-644-0627. (46)

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 repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (46)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. 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 instrumental music teacher. Please call 732-350-4427 for more information. All are welcome. (3)

Cleaning Home or Office -Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly. Available Toms River, Beachwood, Pine Beach. Decades of Experience, Free Estimate, Call Nancy 732-674-6640 (43)

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, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER

Items Wanted

For Sale - 3 piece queen bedroom with box spring and mattress, wood grain. Used only twice, $499. 732-503-3263. (41) ISO Experienced Body Shop WelderTo work on old car. No schedule. Call Bart 201-249-2400. (43)

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)

Cash Paid LP Records - 33/45's, reel to reel's. Fast response, we answer the phone 732-829-5908, 24/7, Eddie. (41)

Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)

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

Day Substitutes Wanted for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School district: Couriers, Custodial, 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)

Garden State Medical Centercurrently looking for qualified candidates to fill their medical assistant, receptionist, and surgical technician positions. If you would like to apply or have any questions, call 732-202-3000. (45)

Property/Management - Brick repair, brick restoration, mulch, stone. Spring/Fall cleanups. pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (42)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

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

Prepare for power outages today - with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Facts: Simply stated, rabies is one of the oldest diseases known to man. It is a fatal, contagious disease which affects mammals, which due to vaccines, good veterinary care and astute animal husbandry, it is mostly found in wildlife. Birds are not threatened by this disease. It is untrue that all raccoons carry rabies. Other mammals, such as squirrels, mice, groundhogs, rats, wild rabbits, chipmunks, have almost never been known to transmit rabies to humans. Why is that you might wonder? Due to the fact that their size

Rabies – e Facts And e Myths

and ability to survive an attack by a rabid animal is very slim. More than likely, they would succumb to death before they could become a danger. A bite from a rabid animal transfers saliva, which is the culprit for the transmission of the disease. Contact with rabies-active saliva alone through an open wound for example, contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) is enough to transmit the disease.

Facts: It is important to know that rabies is a slow-moving virus that travels up the spinal cord to the brain. Once symptoms become apparent the virus is multiplying in the brain. The only time an animal can spread the virus

is when it is in the saliva, which happens several days BEFORE symptoms become apparent. Therefore, an animal cannot spread the disease when it is incubating the virus, which is the time it takes the virus to travel along the spinal cord from site of entry. What does a rabid animal look like? Usually either very vicious and aggressive or partially or totally paralyzed, trouble walking.

Myths: These symptoms are not always an indication of rabies. Antifreeze poisoning, head trauma and canine distemper (a disease of dogs) are other reason you might see similar symptoms. It’s a myth that if a nocturnal animal appears in the daylight,

that they must have rabies. As I touched on in my article ‘Raccoons Out in Daylight,’ there are other reasons. Don’t assume an animal is rabid. Exercise caution. Contact the NJ Public Health and Environmental Laboratories, Rabies Laboratory via email: rabies.PHEL@doh.nj.gov or by telephone: (609) 530-8416, 671-6418 or 671-6419.

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.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

15th Annual Fall Harvest Festival

STAFFORD – The 15th Annual Stafford Township Fall Harvest Festival will be held at Manahawkin Lake Park, Route 9 and Lakeshore Drive on October 8 and 9 from 12 to 5 p.m. both days.

Hayrides, craft vendors, food vendors. Halloween parade at 12 p.m., line up at Stafford Firehouse at 11:30 a.m. Scarecrow making, costume contest, pumpkin picking, wine festival at Heritage Park. Entertain-

ment by Josh Werner and The Acousticrats. Car show, wine festival at Heritage Park, craft vendors, food vendors, drum circle. Entertainment by Ridgemont High and The Lovelight Band.

Help Us Help Others - Admission to hayrides is a nonperishable food item that will benefit The Free Little Pantry.

For additional information, call 609-5971000 ext. 8573 or visit staffordnj.gov.

Fall Community Wide Clean Up

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – Join the Little Egg Harbor Environmental Commission for their Fall Community Wide Clean-Up

October 8. Clean up begins at 9 a.m. at the municipal building.

Volunteer yourself or a group. Volunteer hours/community service hours earned! Lunch served immediately following at the community center. To register and for more information, visit tinyurl.com/3x8eap83.

Holiday Wonderland And Christmas Market

STAFFORD – The Stafford Township Recreation Department presents the inaugural Holiday Wonderland and Christmas Market on December 10 from 12 to 6 p.m., when farmers, makers and food vendors

will fi ll Heritage Park. Dress warmly and bring the whole family “downtown” for a full day of shopping, food trucks, fi re pits, Santa and Mrs. Claus, live entertainment and more!

Create Unique Natural Fragrances

TOMS RIVER – Here is an opportunity to create an aroma as individual as you are. Perfume enthusiast Megan Ruisch will lead “The Art of Natural Fragrance” at several Library system branches

Manchester Branch – 6 p.m. October 17, 21 Colonial Drive, 732-657-7600

Stafford Branch – 1 p.m. November 5, 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin, 609597-3381

Lacey Branch – 1 p.m. December 10, 10 East Lacey Road, Forked River, 609-693-

8566

Participants in this engaging, do-it-yourself program series will learn how to blend natural ingredients to create their own scented balms.

Registration at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events is required for the free programs at all three branches. Registrants should be age 18 or older.

“The Art of Natural Fragrance” is not recommended for those with asthma, allergies, or skin sensitivity.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Lanes Will Close For Seaside Bridge Repair

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – There will be temporary lane closures for a few weeks on the westbound side of the bridge coming back from Seaside Heights, the New Jersey Department of Transportation reported.

The first day of the construction was Monday, October 3. One or two lanes will be closed from Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. One lane will always be open. The eastbound traffic will be unaffected. Electronic signs will tell drivers about the closed lanes.

The DOT said the work will take place until the end of October.

PKF Mark III, Inc. will be performing deck repairs as part of a $9.6 million statewide Drawbridge Preventative Maintenance Contract.

Weather and other factors could impact the work. Updates and real-time travel information will be provided on 511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information and for NJDOT news follow us on Twitter @NewJerseyDOT or on the NJDOT Facebook page.

Extra! Extra! “Read” All About Ca us Island

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.

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.

Sta ord Township 7th Annual Car Show

STAFFORD – Stafford Township 7th Annual Car Show on October 9 at Manahawkin Lake Park. Enjoy trophies, vendors, food, live entertainment by 80’s tribute band -

Ridgemont High.

All proceeds benefit Stafford PBA Toy Drive.

For more information, contact: jmcbrien@ stäffordnj.gov, 609-597-1000 ext. 8573.

Omarr’s Astrological

Forecast

For the week of OCT 8 - OCt 14

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Whether or not the truth is pretty, by sticking by it you can prevent loss of trust. Plant the seeds of a financial idea in the upcoming week and then be patientgive it plenty of time to sprout and grow.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In the week ahead, more can be gained by being cooperative than competitive. If you push your way to the front of the line, other people might push back. Remain poised and calm to cope with the unexpected.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Work with others in the week ahead. Extending friendly warmth and kindness can thaw even the chilliest situation. Exercise at the gym, walk with friends or spend time out and about in your local community.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): It may be challenging to think clearly and act promptly when you are dealt wild cards. Have faith that a problem or disagreement can be cured. A partner or loved one may be a valuable resource in the week ahead.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t be taken in by surface appearances. Find inspiration but avoid believing something that you know isn’t true. In the week to come, you might enjoy working with your partner in a group setting with friends.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The road to knowledge may rise to meet you. This may be a good week to try a new experience or dive deeply into a new study or research project. If you do not waver, you can profit from an idea implemented now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) : You and a partner may see the same skies, but you might not view the same horizon. Loved ones may cause you to doubt their commitment in the upcoming week. Remain faithful even if someone is impulsive or erratic.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Follow the learning curve upward. Solving a puzzle can be a springboard to a better understanding of how to achieve success. Use your money to try to make loved ones and friends happy in the week to come.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Numbers can be counted on to give predictable results, but someone’s explanations might not add up. Watch what a loved one does, not what they say. You can turn a profit if you are thorough about your research.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Both money and love can help to make life easier and more joyful. You may be able to express your passion for something or someone without holding back as this week begins. Analyze a situation and find a solution.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Friends may come and go but the best ones will be there to help you when you need it. You could be encouraged to be more competitive. It might be difficult to remain within a realistic budget in the week ahead.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Be practical and let idealism take second place. Put some distance between you and a problem in the week ahead so that you have a better perspective. This is not a time to let suspicions or doubts cloud your judgment.

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SERVE THESE BUTTERY SCONES WITH YOUR FAVORITE JAM FOR A SPECIAL BREAKFAST

By America’s Test Kitchen

SIMPLE CREAM SCONES

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