2022-10-29 - The Toms River Times

RIVER

Bon Jovi Guest Stars At Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – A fiery competition between almost a dozen first responder teams left crowds of people licking their lips as taste-testers in JBJ Soul Kitchen’s 7th Annual Chili Cook-Off. Guests began lining

up outside the fence of the Hooper Avenue location as early as 9 a.m. and traveled from as far away as Brazil.

Though preliminary reports gave no hint rocker Jon Bon Jovi planned to be on site, the promise of raising funds for a good cause made the trip worthwhile.

Most know Bon Jovi as a Jersey boy with Sayreville roots. While his music and looks cause many to swoon, the mission he’s created deserves more than its share of attention. The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation began back in 2006 to help combat hunger, poverty and homelessness.

Community Sharing eir Joy rough Donations

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – You might have already heard it on the radio – people are hoping to Share the Joy by giving what they can to those less fortunate.

WJRZ (100.1) is again looking to fill a Pepsi truck with donations. They’ll be broadcasting live from the ShopRite at 860 Fischer Boulevard in Toms River from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on November 18 and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on November 19. During

this time, they’ll be actively collecting and packing away food and supplies that will then be sorted and given to those in need.

The groups they’ve partnered with include:

Fulfill, formerly the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean, which is looking for non-perishable food items and frozen turkeys.

The Jersey Shore Animal Center, which is looking for dog and cat food, pet toys, and blankets.

Not only does the JBJ Soul Foundation provide warm nutritious meals at its Toms River location, but it’s also involved in setting up affordable housing. The local restaurant accepts donations for its healthy meals and provides in-need customers a

Seaside Heights Reinvents Itself A er Sandy

By Bob Vosseller

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Things weren’t looking good for the borough in the fall of 2012 - its famous roller coaster was lying in the ocean amidst the devastation of SuperStorm Sandy which damaged many a residence in the community.

The “home for family fun since 1913” had lost much of its boardwalk and had some major cleaning

Local Family Makes Halloween Parade Float A Tradition

By Bob Vosseller

TOMS RIVER – To say the Davis family loves Halloween would be an understatement. Their enjoyment of the holiday is only surpassed by their dedication to being noticed during the annual Toms River

Halloween Parade.

Township resident Tara Davis said thanks to her husband Ed and their children, the family has been entering the family float division of the Toms River Halloween Parade since 2015. “My husband is very talented, and does not give

himself enough credit. He masterminds these floats, costumes, props all from everyday items, cardboard, papier mache, balloons and more.”

Davis said her husband, “spends very little money to create these wonderful

By Bob Vosseller

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Jon Bon Jovi sampled chili from each of the competitors and switched hats as fi rst responders offered them to him.

Sandy:

Continued From Page 1

up to do in the aftermath of that storm that paralyzed the barrier island and crippled local economies.

In the decade that followed the storm, the borough not only survived but thrived as it sought to recreate itself not only physically with new buildings and facilities but with a more family friendly atmosphere.

The community which once housed numerous night clubs and taverns now has only a few bars and restaurants that carry a liquor license. Some of those nightclubs were involved in questionable practices which led to constant police visits for underage drinking and drug use.

An unsightly unfinished structure in the center of town was finally removed through litigation after more than a decade of effort.

Flash forward to 2022, 10 years after Superstorm Sandy.

Mayor Anthony Vaz told The Toms River Times, that the change in the borough is part of a multi-year plan to change the town’s image.

“You have to look at drawing in families by having different venues that attract a family atmosphere,” the mayor said.

He noted that he and the rest of the governing body were looking at “quality of life issues, safety issues, walking the street by patrolmen, cleanliness of the town and we focused on that.”

Mayor Vaz said that in focusing on the first five years, “what do we do with dilapidated properties and absentee landlords that could care less about Seaside Heights. They are only interested in making money so we started getting much stronger with our code rulings and enforcement.”

“That showed to be progressive and we are seeing a lot of absentee landlords now being penalized with fines, revoking of their licenses and it is starting to be a focus point to many people in town that don’t always want to obey the rules,” the mayor added.

In that regard, the borough pushed to get an old metallic eyesore that had been part of an incomplete project removed. Business Administrator Christopher Vaz said that concerning that site, “The redevelopment plan is a mixed use building including condos, restaurant and retail on the ground floor.”

Mayor Vaz said, “something else that is working to our advantage and I hope it continues is that developers are coming into the

community and see us as the last frontier of the Jersey shoreline. They see us as a place that will still grow and as developers, we can still make money by building retail or single family or multi-family mixed use and we’ve seen that in the last three or four years really move along.”

Among several construction projects is a plan approved by the governing body in August for the authorization of a capital project to purchase a unique piece of property on Franklin Avenue that will be demolished in favor of new construction.

The mayor and council secured funds from the state Department of Community Affairs for the purpose of acquiring blighted properties. The purchase price of the building at 229 Franklin Avenue is $1,150,000 and it includes both a single-family home as well as a motel which both exist on a single residential lot.

The motel was the site of numerous police responses over the years which led the borough to revoke its mercantile license to operate.

The motel’s owner agreed to have the borough purchase the property that will now be re-sold to a new owner who desires construction of a residential property that will conform to the zone.

A developer has also proposed the construction of seven homes on the site of the Mark III Motel, located at the intersection of Carteret Avenue and Central Avenue.

Earlier this month, borough officials authorized another round of demolition funding to be used to remove two residential homes that have fallen into disrepair. The borough received a $1 million grant last year from the state to fund the demolition of private properties – residential or commercial – in town that qualify as blighted or are otherwise in disrepair or a safety risk. Council members finalized the use of funds to take down the two homes located at 54 and 60 Franklin Avenue, east of the former Merge nightclub, which is a designated redevelopment area.

They will be demolished after a contract is awarded to a demolition firm and the cost will be covered by the state grant.

Borough officials also appointed a redeveloper to oversee the building of mixed-use properties on the Boulevard with single-family homes on side streets which were once part of the Merge nightclub site, and some adjoining property.

Officials chose the new owner of the property, Mordechai Finkelstein, operating under the corporate name Seaside MYF LLC, to

redevelop it according to borough specifications and unlike the former “steel structure eyesore” property located a block to the north, Seaside Heights has never had an ownership interest in the former Merge site and two other adjacent parcels.

Originally it was sold to area businessman Robert Bennett by John Saady, the owner of the nightclub. Bennett then sold it last year to Finkelstein whose company met the criteria necessary under state redevelopment laws as well as borough ordinances for the right to redevelop the site as part of the redevelopment plan that has been adopted by the borough.

The lots located on Franklin and Hamilton avenues will be subdivided into 20-by-100foot residential parcels and sold to the public. The residential lots however, can’t be developed until after the mixed-use properties on the Boulevard are finalized.

The nightclub was demolished and the forthcoming residential properties are being used as an unpaved parking lot at the current time. The entire property is approximately 27,400 square feet in area. It has about 200 feet of frontage along Boulevard, 190 feet of frontage along Hamilton Avenue, and 90 feet of frontage along Franklin Avenue.

Business Administrator Christopher Vaz said, “the grant covers demolition. Other property owners have sought funds from the grant. One example is the owner of the Coral Sands who is demolishing the building for his new project, and he requested demo funding assistance.”

Officials made sure their redevelopment plan didn’t include the presence of sexually-oriented business, nightclubs, bars, fortune tellers, tattoo parlors, stores that sell drug paraphernalia, and kiosk-based businesses in the two buildings that make up the commercial portions of the Boulevard.

“Right now, we are focusing on where are we with infrastructure with all this development going on with water, streets, roads, electric. Where are we with sizes of property. We may be looking at that and saying, you know what, maybe we have to look at development in a different way,” the mayor said.

“If we want to keep our family image, we are very happy that condominiums are coming into town but we’d still like to see some hotels or motels develop and that is a focus now that we are looking at. How can we get the developers to put up daily and weekly rentals and the typical motel/hotel experiences for when people come down.”

“They (mayor and council) have a vision and they know that every decision they make as a governing body – even small ones like “do we wrap the traffic light control boxes?” or “what bands should we book for the boardwalk and beach?” – have to be made in support of that vision. It is something that gets done on a daily basis. They live it. We live it on the personnel side,” the business administrator said.

Another big change for the borough this year was the borough’s police department taking over the full use of the municipal building which led to moving the borough offices over to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church parish hall just two blocks away.

Business Administrator Christopher Vaz said, “the former Borough Hall was too small for our needs and the former SHPD offices are

deplorable. Too small for a police department our size, out of date, lack of storage, rain leaking, etc.”

“When the church indicated that it vacated the building due to the consolidation of the St Catharine’s and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church parishes, it was perfect timing. Borough Hall was able to relocate into a two-floor building and the police were able to spread out into our admin offices. Still not ideal for the police, but better than what they had for sure,” the business administrator added.

Unlike some barrier island beaches, Seaside Heights saw their beach badge revenue go up this year after the challenges of the last two summer seasons due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “That increased and we were fortunate it to work with the DEP and received some grant money and we will redevelop the south end of the bay area. It will not only improve the water way appearance but it will help protect it from erosion,” the mayor said.

The borough’s business administrator added, “the North bayfront boat ramp will be reconstructed. The South bayfront, living shoreline will be constructed to mitigate severe erosion adjacent to the parking lot.”

The “living shoreline” project will improve protection to the bayside from erosion, eliminate deterioration of a concrete bulkhead, and enhance the look of the area and the environment. It consists of a 120 linear foot “planted revetment” living shoreline and will be built with rip-rap fill and filter fabric to support revetment stones.

Work at the project site located near the Dock Outfitters property owned by the town and leased to a private business owner, will start before 2023 and the timing is in accordance with meeting state regulations that bar construction during the winter flounder spawning season.

The borough has a new bayfront playground which was completed over the summer and replaced its old ballfield next to the Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School on Bay Avenue.

“That was initiated by the Seaside Heights Board of Education and it was instrumental with our communication that we liked the idea to be presented to them and them to us and it became a reality. It does belong to the borough and it came through monies from the American Rescue Act that the school got,” Mayor Vaz added.

The borough itself got funds from the American Rescue Act as well, the mayor said. “With the school monies we improved the tennis courts, made pickleball courts and the playground itself is a beautiful site and exercise facility.”

The mayor also noted that the community’s museum has made progress and refurbishing of the famous Carousel is underway.

“The Carousel Pavilion, Marion, Ohio based Carousel & Carvings is working on restoration of the carousel and hopes to deliver and reassemble the carousel for a grand opening summer 2023. The local history museum is an ongoing project and may open sooner or in stages during summer and fall 2023,” the business administrator added.

Mayor Vaz said that overall, the community is doing well and is moving forward. “We have been working closely with the County Commissioners, the governor’s office in Trenton so we are progressing. We are moving forward in a good way.”

floats. He initially started doing this for our children, he enjoys seeing their smiling faces. Our daughters Brooke,15 and Emily, 13, now a little older, are able to help make costumes, props, etc.

Their first float went down the parade route in 2015 and the family won a prize for the theme of Hotel Transylvania. The following year it was SpongeBob and in 2017 they donned cloaks, capes and magic wands with a Harry Potter theme. The family did a Toy Story float in 2018 and How to Train Your Dragon in 2019. Now the family is back as there was no parade in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and last year Ed’s mother passed away. The family has won four, fi rst place trophies and one second place trophy. This year’s theme is the Muppet Show.

“My husband said in 2015, hey we should do a float. He thought the kids would like it and he’s very creative so his wheels started turning and we started thinking about what the theme should be and we all had our two cents in and we all kind of agreed to Hotel Transylvania because that film was really popular back then so that is what we decided.”

Tara Davis added, “we won a second-place trophy for Hotel Transylvania in the family float division, not affiliated. That was our first. My husband calls it our trial run. It was our fi rst time doing it and we didn’t know what to expect.”

“Then he thinks of what he can do in designing the float once the theme is chosen. Costumes and props to decorate the trailer and his pickup truck that pulls the trailer and then he sketches it out and then he starts to create all these things and then the house is taken over by big costume heads and papier mache and glue, feathers and all kinds of different things,” Tara Davis said.

“He fi nds stuff in peoples’ garbage that he can use,” she said with a laugh. “He takes extra cardboard from his job. All the discarded cardboard and he does all this with hardly any money.”

Ed Davis works for Verizon/Fios. He said he was self-taught in this area of his hobby but that his father was an artist. “He wanted to be an artist and wanted to draw but his dad just didn’t have the time to teach him so he learned a lot from his love of comic books on how to draw. He is also good with woodworking and has done sketches for tattoos,” his wife said.

The Davises have friends who take part as characters or who give him a hand on the day of the parade.

“Each year it grows and gets more elaborate,” she said. In 2021, the family skipped the parade due to the passing of Ed’s mother who was also a big part of the Halloween tradition.

“She would come down to the Kohl’s Plaza and she would take pictures and she made him a photo book the year we did Toy Story. She printed out all the pictures and wrote an inscription in the photo book like ‘never grow up,’” Tara said.

NOV.

NOV.

NOV.

NOV.

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 AT THE BROWNSTONES IN PATERSON $128/pp

Includes a family style lunch, 1 Drink, Live Music, Comedian

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

DEC. 12-14 3 DAY CHRISTMAS ON THE POTOMAC $598/pp Dbl.Occ. Enjoy the holidays with us on a spectacular Christmas themed trip. Ice returns this year with one of a kind amazing walk-through experience. Includes 2 nts. stay at the 5 star Gaylord National Harbor Resort, 2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners, 1 Christmas Musical with lunch and more.

DEC. 15. ELF MUSICAL AT THE DUTCH APPLE THEATRE IN LANCASTER PA $138/pp

Lunch Before Show.

JAN. 11 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL $219/pp

lunch before show & Orchestra Seat.

JAN. 18 SOME LIKE IT HOT MUSICAL $212/pp

Lunch Before Show.

JAN. 25 MJ MUSICAL

Guest:

Continued From Page 1 reprieve from food insecurity. Bon Jovi showed up at the outdoor chili event and savored samples as he spoke to each of the competitors. The teams who competed and the names of their entries included: Toms River Fire Co. #1: Smolder on the Hill Lanoka Harbor EMS: Blaze of Glory Ocean County Sheriff ’s PBA Local 379: Macho Five Start Chili Six Flags EMS: Nitro Chili Sayreville Police Department: Slippery When Wet

NJ State Police-Holmdel: Joey Keys Smoked Chili

Melrose Hose Company/Sayreville Fire Department: Melrose Chili Union Beach Police Department: Momma’s Blue Line Chili

President Park Fire Co/Sayreville Fire Dept: House 5 Chili Sayreville Engine Co #1/Sayreville Fire Department: Last Minute Experiment Toms River Police Department: Battle River Stout “Aww, the hometown’s here,” said Bon Jovi, as he stopped by the first of four Sayreville competitors.

After the famous rocker spoke with each of the first responders about their recipes, he took photographs and autographed everything from shirts to programs. He also changed his hat a few times to don the logos of competitor’s departments.

A man on a mission of caring for others, Bon Jovi then headed to his waiting fans who

came to support his efforts. He took phones from the hands of those who couldn’t get the angle right and posed for selfies. Gates opened and people turned over donations to do their part to help the less fortunate.

The Chili Cook-Off was more than a test of who made the best of the heartwarming meal. Applaud Our Kids Foundation provided great entertainment from some talented young people. Children’s activities were also offered by Home Run Entertainment.

The community event featured a food drive, which brought in over 500 pounds of food for JBJ’s partners at People’s Pantry.

Donations raised from the cook-off go towards making life better for the needy – the first set of winners in the end. And – as far as the chili champions?

“Union Beach Police Department’s ‘Momma Blue Line Chili’ took first place in the contest,” said Casey Pioli of JBJ Soul Foundation. “Six Flags EMS took second place, and NJ State Police-Holmdel took home third. We granted the rest of our participants with Honorable Mention certificates.”

JBJ Soul Kitchen Toms River, employs four full-time paid employees: Executive Chef, Head Chef, Community Coordinator and Steward. The rest of the team are volunteers.

“We could not do what we do without our volunteers,” Pioli stressed. “As our website states, ‘Volunteers are essential to the JBJ Soul Kitchen mission and are the life blood of what we do.’”

Those interested in volunteering should visit jbjsoulkitchen.org/volunteer. There is a mandatory orientation process. All volunteers must be 15 years or older, and live within a 15-mile radius of a JBJ Soul Kitchen location.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

Letters To The Editor

Superstorm Sandy Anniversary Brings

Back Painful Memories

I love autumn, especially the month of October as it brings out a lot of fun activities and the Halloween season is in full swing. After 2012 however, it was never quite the same. This year marks a decade since the devasting impact of Superstorm Sandy which was one of the worst times in my life and probably many others as well.

It was a time when I and all of Ocean County truly witnessed the wrath of Mother Nature. Before that we thought of hurricanes and the destruction as happening someplace else.

While I had heard stories of the great storm of the early 1960s that created a flood around areas of the northern barrier island, I wasn’t prepared for what we got. I was also in the midst of covering this devastation first hand while working for another Jersey Shore based publication.

I will never forget the conversation I had the day after the storm speaking to then-Seaside Heights Mayor Bill Ackers who said, “Bob, the rollercoaster is in the ocean.” He had stayed that evening and described to me what he was seeing and heard.

This was worse than any horror film I could ever watch during Halloween; this was real. I will also never forget the ride I took with then-Toms River Police Chief (and current Ocean County Sheriff) Michael Mastronardy and a CNN reporter a day or so after the storm as we toured the war zone that was the barrier island. We witnessed an SUV submerged in a sink hole in Lavallette and the smell of smoke from a fire still being put out in the Brick Township section of the barrier island. The chief was kind enough to stop by my home in Or-

tley Beach and allow to check its status. While I was relieved to see it was still standing, I had no idea what I would later find inside my small bungalow home. The damage and mold that would develop would eventually lead to its being demolished entirely.

A week later I was back in the same police vehicle with the chief as we inspected 3rd Avenue in Ortley Beach. Saint Elisabeth’s Chapel, where I was married, was wiped away as if it were never there. The same went for the house across the street from it where my wife to be and her bridal group briefly parked as they finished singing “Going to the Chapel” which popped up on the radio moments before they were to enter the church.

The family who occupied that home had asked the chief to check for a hidden safe that might be found in the rubble. With the snow that was covering the debris, it was hard to find but the chief found a silver Menorah. The chief lost his footing and fell and as a fellow reporter and I went to exit the car to assist him, the chief yelled out ‘no, stay there, you’ll just fall too.’ He returned to the car and called the family. The woman on the phone was crying and while I could be wrong, I think I spotted a tear from the chief as well and I know I was probably joining him.

I tossed a lot of personal belongings that had been ruined from the wave of water that entered my house. I needed an ax to break into a bureau that had warped and held photo albums including a wedding album. Other prized items were also discarded.

Singleton Lied About Senior Residency Bill

Senator Singleton’s Bill, Senate Bill S2537, will invalidate the decades old governing documents of many age-restricted communities which require owners to be fifty-five years of age or older. It provides that, regardless of age, anyone can be “the owner of a dwelling unit in an age-restricted community.”

If passed this bill will convert, over a very short period of time, owner-occupied, age-restricted communities presently governed by owners who want to enjoy a senior lifestyle, into low-income rental communities, governed by absentee landlords, focused upon maximizing profits and minimizing, if not eliminating, any accommodations for a senior lifestyle.

In defending his bill against concerns over non-senior and/or absentee owners governing senior communities, Senator Singleton misrepresented the truth and stated that: “Under existing laws, a [community association], can regulate who may serve on their Board. Nothing in S-2537 would change that.”

He obviously knows that, in fact, his statement is false since the current law, N.J.S.A. 45:22A-45.2 c. (4), expressly prohibits community associations from excluding any owner in good standing from serving on

their Board and expressly provides that: “An association . . . shall not prohibit an association member in good standing from nominating himself or herself . . . as a candidate for any membership position on the executive board.”

S-2537 is a Trojan Horse about to be foisted upon New Jersey age-restricted communities who are being lied to about its effects. Shame on Senator Singleton!

Judith Noonan Manchester

GOP Majority Will Increase Age For Medicare, Social Security

Interviews with Republican policy leaders should have all seniors, and people close to being seniors (like me) worried.

The Republican Study Committee released a budget plan over the summer that called on lawmakers to gradually raise the Medicare age of eligibility to 67 and the Social Security eligibility to start at 70 before indexing both to life expectancy. It backed withholding payments to those who retired early and had earnings over a certain limit.

So, in other words, we’ll have to work longer into our late 60s before we enjoy the funds that we paid into all

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The Toms River Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

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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.

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our working lives.

Also, the plan will allow businesses to pay less into Social Security with the assumption that people will pay into their own private retirement accounts. Good in theory, but when have people ever made the best decisions about their retirement? Besides isn’t this just trickle-down retirement?

House Republicans’ Commitment to America midterm policy and messaging plan, spearheaded by their leader, Kevin McCarthy, includes a single line saying that Republicans would “save and strengthen Social Security and Medicare.”

It’s clear that they want to strengthen it by letting fewer people get it.

The only way to stop this is to prevent the GOP from getting a majority on the House. Do not vote for Chris Smith or Jeff Van Drew – they will vote to take away the money that we’ve worked so hard to accumulate.

Don’t let them take away our retirement!

Joshua Kettlesmith Jackson

Barnegat’s Freedom Of Speech Is Under Attack

Barnegat Residents - After a long absence, I once again find myself putting “pen to paper.”

I just received my Barnegat Vote by Mail ballot and I’m seething with rage. Once again, the Barnegat Township Committee is continuing with their shenanigans by trying to limit our First Amendment Rights – our right to “FREEDOM OF SPEECH.” It’s time for change! We need Charlie Cunliffe on the Barnegat Township Committee.

At the urging of Al Bille, the ONE PARTY Township Committee has seen fit to pass a resolution to put a question on the ballot to eliminate ALL signs on public property, including the

public right-of-way in front of your house. To make it worse, they have used biased and inflammatory language in their Interpretive Statement on the ballot to sway voters to vote yes on this ballot question. This isn’t their first attempt at keeping us “in line and muted.” Several years ago, Al Bille’s ONE-PARTY Township Committee prohibited signs not larger than 2 feet by 4 feet, not only on public property, but on private property as well.

We all think that Barnegat’s decades-old ONE-PARTY governing body’s target is to eliminate political signs and Al Bille is the culprit behind this effort. What is he afraid of? Of course, you must realize that this ballot question means that ALL signs will be prohibited – signs for our kids’ athletic team registrations, notices of Open Houses by realtors, yard sale signs, signs for various events, such as the Firehouse Station 11 Fish Fry and the Santa Toy run.

We can’t sit by and watch our RIGHTS erode. Besides this infringement to our freedom of speech…we are slowly losing our voting rights, our children’s right to a clean planet, our right to affordable health care, and our right to have control and choice over our own bodies. We all know that politics is local and these rights start eroding in our towns’ governments and school boards and they go all the way up to the State and Federal government

WE THE PEOPLE demand that our rights be protected and preserved. These rights are core to SAVING OUR DEMOCRACY.

So…what does all this mean? We desperately need a change here in Barnegat – we desperately need to govern under a TWO-PARTY system. For all of these reasons, you need to VOTE FOR Charlie Cunliffe for Barnegat Township Committee and...VOTE NO on this ballot question.

Marianne P. Clemente President, Barnegat Democratic Club

S POTLIGHT O N G

$1.8M To Support Mental Health Services Across State

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) announced $1,835,885 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support mental health services provided by the New Jersey Department of Human Services.

Finance Committee that sets national health policy. “Whether it is a rise in anxiety disorders, depression, or in the worst and most tragic cases - the loss of young people from suicide - we know that this growing crisis started long before the pandemic. This funding will help residents across the state receive the help and treatment they need.”

Capitol Comments

“The mental health challenges facing our country, especially our young people, must be addressed,” said Sen. Menendez, a senior member of the Senate

“The pandemic has spotlighted the importance of accessible and affordable mental health services,” said Sen. Booker. “This federal funding will help New Jerseyans access the care they need.”

In recent months, the Senate Finance Committee has held hearings on youth mental health and is developing a package of policies to address mental health in America.

During a recent hearing, Sen. Menendez noted the mental health disparity that exists in communities of color and sought answers on how the government can better target resources for minority youth and ensure health care and child care providers are equipped to handle these unique challenges. At another hearing, Sen. Menendez highlighted his bill, The Pursuing Equity in Mental Health Act, which would address growing issues of suicide and mental health facing young people, particularly in socially and economically disadvantaged communities that have disproportionately faced disparities in access to mental health treatment and outcomes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Continued From Page 7

I know I wasn’t alone in that situation. Ortley Beach and Mantoloking were considered to be “Ground Zero” for Superstorm Sandy in all of New Jersey.

The place I had considered as my safe place, my sanctuary since I summered there as a child and that became my permanent place of residence in 1986 was now unlivable and would soon be gone.

Others on my block put their ruined items out to the curb. The Ocean County Utilities Authority land across the street became a tower of debris. The A&P store became a command post for emergency workers and police who maintained security for months as the barrier island was closed off to the general public.

It was truly a nightmare. My elderly mother, who was ill at the time and who, with my equally ill father (who was in the hospital after the storm) lived in a senior community in Berkeley Township. My mother couldn’t grasp the kind of devastation that had occurred to our beloved Ortley Beach.

Months and years went by and gradually, homes were demolished, replaced or put on poles to meet new FEMA elevation standards. I was fortunate to receive grants to assist me in building a new home on my plot of land. I was covering the nightmare of Superstorm Sandy for about a year. Each assignment, each article, each video, each photograph was a reminder of what had happened and it was surreal.

A decade has passed and the memories

linger. My wife and my neighbor Joe and many others will never forget what we all thought and hoped would be just a really bad wind storm.

For me that meant some damage to a worn canvas canopy and an outside metal overhang that was cut in half after the blizzard of 2003. Ironically, it wasn’t the wind, it was the water. That canopy and metal overhang were still there when my house was demolished in the late winter of 2014. It’s funny the things you remember.

I don’t like remembering the anniversary of Superstorm Sandy but like many others, I survived it and I will remember the kindness of a church group that came from out of state to clear out material under the house before it could be demolished. I’ll also remember the local volunteers that helped gut the place after

that and the Red Cross workers who froze along with us and handed out hot coffee and hot chocolate on the vacant streets of Ortley Beach.

There were also the people who provided free clean up buckets and various materials and those who opened a store for us to pick up free items. I did a story on that and one of the volunteers told me to pick up some things too, pointing out I was also a victim in need and not just an observer.

It was called the storm of the century that hopefully won’t be back for another 50 to 70 years. I won’t be around to confi rm that prediction, but I hope that the storm we experienced will never come back.

Bob Vosseller Assistant Editor

UNDERSTANDING CONTACT LENSES

Contact lenses have come a long way in terms of comfort and long-term wearability, but for those still wary of putting a foreign objects in their eyes, it can be helpful to know exactly what that object is. Soft contacts are made from a gel-like plastic called hydrogel (because it contains water). Gas permeable lenses, often recommended for those with astigmatism, are more rigid in order to accommodate mesh-like holes. These holes allow oxygen to flow freely so they can be worn closer to the eye to provide crystal clear vision. Hybrid lenses have a permeable center surrounded by a hydrogel outer rim for comfort. Hard lenses are rarely prescribed today as they are difficult to care for and uncomfortable.

Putting in contact lenses can feel a little intimidating at first. But once you do it, you’ll feel much more relaxed. At SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES, we are trained to provide you with all your eye care needs - medical and surgical. Our goal is to protect your sight through early diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions with state-of-the-art equipment. If it’s been a while since you’ve had an eye exam, make an appointment by calling 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Hydrogel lenses currently are the most commonly prescribed type of contact because they can be worn comfortably for long periods, even overnight.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020 www.oceancountyeye.com

BRICK (732) 477-6981

Senator Robert Menendez

Senator Cory Booker

Donations:

Continued From Page 1

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Coastal NJ, which is looking for gift cards, board games, Lego sets, and arts and crafts kits. All three groups could also use monetary donations.

The drive has been going on for about two decades. At last year’s drive, the 50-foot truck, lent to them by Pepsi, was wall-towall with packages, showing the generosity of people in the area.

Just as in previous years, a local resident is spearheading donations in her own neck of the woods. Robyn Griffith was instrumental in collecting for this event in past years, using her home as a drop-off point before bringing everything over to the ShopRite. She noted that items needed include:

• Cereal

• Hot cereals (whole grain)

• Canned vegetables (low sodium)

• Canned meals/tuna/salmon/spaghetti/ ravioli/chicken

• Canned fruit (in juice or light syrup)

• Peanut butter

• Jelly

• Cooking oils

• Pancake mix

• Syrup

• Diapers

• Hygiene items

• Fruit juice (100% juice)

• Bottled water

• Manual can openers

She asked that people can contact her if they are interested in helping. If sending an email, write “Share the Joy” in the subject line so she knows it’s not junk mail. She can be reached at 848-333-7318, rnofgnt@ yahoo.com, 222 Anchor Avenue, Beachwood, NJ 08722.

By Alyssa Riccardi

TOMS RIVER – A large deer that was trapped in a

was saved by local fi rst responders

October 17.

Around 4:30 p.m., authorities received a call that the deer was stranded in a lagoon near Ship Court.

The East Dover and Silverton Volunteer Fire Companies responded with their marine units and fi re apparatus to assist and

were able to successfully locate the

Using a marine boat, the deer was safely guided back to land near Cattus Island.

East Dover Fire Chief Catapano warned residents they should not attempt these

efforts on their own.

“While a deer may appear friendly, close contact with distressed wildlife may result in serious injury and harm to both the animal and the rescuer,” Catapano said.

Robotics Teams

Gear Up For FTC Season

TOMS RIVER – Students from across the district gathered to rev their robots for the fi rst time this season at a formal practice day hosted at High School North.

days are designed for robotics teams from across the state to gather and hone their skills, collaborate with peers, and try out this year’s new competitive resources.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Students from High School East’s Raiders Short Circuits worked to reprogram the arm of their robot while High School South’s Voltron modifi ed their robot’s design. Intermediate North’s Cyberfi ns built all morning and High School North’s Iron Mariners rocked the practice round. District staff expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of High School South parent and board member Anna Polozzo for manning the fundraising table, and for her ongoing support of all of our robotics teams.

There’s still time for students to join, and no experience is necessary. The district encourages those who might be interested to listen for announcements in their buildings for details on weekly meetings after school and about the three big competitive events across New Jersey.

TOMS RIVER – The new dog park, part of Silverton Park on Maine Street, is scheduled to open on November 1, Mayor Mo Hill announced.

The park is currently not safe for dogs to play in and there has been at least one dog injured. Crews are continuing to work on the grounds, benches have yet to be installed and the sod and grass seed needs time to take.

There is evidence that someone forced their way into the locked park by kicking gates open and bending latch mechanisms to get around the padlocks.

“We ask that dog loving residents be patient just a couple of weeks longer,” Mayor Hill said. “While the dog park looks ready and inviting, there is still work to be done. For the safety of your dogs and the enjoyment of all, please let the crew finish the job before using the dog park.”

South’s Moreira On Elite Drumming Tour

TOMS RIVER – Each year, thousands of high school and mostly college-age marching band performers from across the country audition for the chance to be offered a contract with Drum Corps International (DCI). If offered one of these elite contracts, the performer travels to spring training in preparation for a summer tour, where Corps perform and compete at various venues across the country, sometimes even a new venue each night. The touring and competitions ultimately lead to the DCI World Championships at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, where performers compete in front of a crowd of more than 30,000 people.

High School South Drum Captain A.J. Moreira - last seen performing as part of the All-Shore Jazz band - was, in fact, offered three such contracts, following a rigorous audition process this past year. Moreira accepted one, a Rack 1 contract with Jersey Surf World Class Drum Corps. He attended training at Delaware State University in June, and then hit the road. Moreira toured the country working with outstanding music professionals and meeting what he believes will be lifetime friends. As a “rookie” with Jersey Surf, he was recognized for his remarkable growth throughout the tour and his relentless work ethic. Jersey Surf made it to the semifinals at the DCI World Championships, where they were a crowd favorite performing their show, “Meet me in Atlantic City,” which included iconic hits by The Four Seasons, and a taste of Bon Jovi. It proved to be an extraordinary and life-changing experience.

“A.J. is an incredible example of success for our Toms River Regional Schools’ music program,” said Toms River School Board member Anna Polozzo.

In addition to his role with Jersey Surf World Class Drum Corps and All Shore Jazz, Moreira plays snare drum for High School South’s marching band - the best in Ocean County, for what it’s worth - and is the set player Maroon Fusion. A band unto himself, Moreira also plays guitar, bass, and is even learning the Marimba. He plans on auditioning for DCI Corps again this year, and if successful, he’ll no longer be a rookie.

“A great kid,” is how his former HSS principal and current Superintendent Mike Citta describes Moreira. “A great talent” seems equally indisputable. Way to go, A.J.!

TOMS RIVER – A Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair will be held on November 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. hosted by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #129, 2025 Church Road Toms River.

Seeking additional craftsman and vendors at this time. Additional information call Laurinda at 732-272-7552.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Life Skills Students

Grocery

courtesy Toms

$3M Water Infrastructure Coming

To Downtown Toms River

By Alyssa Riccardi

TOMS RIVER – Veolia North America

has announced that nearly two miles of aging water main along Water Street in the downtown area of Toms River will be replaced.

The $3 million project is set to begin on November 1, weather permitting, and will provide reliable water service to help ensure a resilient system for the future,

“Making critical improvements to the water infrastructure and replacing aged water mains will enhance service and build a stronger, more sustainable water system for our downtown Toms River community,” said Jim Mastrokalos, Senior Director of Operations. “The company intends to work through the winter months,

weather permitting, with all water main and individual services completed in the fi rst quarter, 2023 timeframe.”

The project will take place from Highland Parkway to Dock Street, with crewing working Monday through Thursday from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Final restoration is scheduled to be completed by about June 2023.

“Our business and residential customers affected by the project can rest assured that Veolia and its inspectors will communicate, in advance, about specific dates and times for any temporary water interruptions, lane shifts or traffic detours,” Mastrokalos said.

For more information, customers can contact the company’s customer service department at 877-565-1456, or visit mywater.veolia.us.

Greenbriar Woodlands

TOMS RIVER – Greenbriar Woodlands Flea Market & Craft Show will be on November 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No early

birds. Greenbriar Woodlands Clubhouse is located at 1 Kensington Circle, Toms River. For more information, call 732-341-4259.

Sandy Survivors Help Those Hit By Hurricane Ian

–Photo courtesy Ortley Beach The photo shown is one of Ortley Beach following Superstorm Sandy.

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – Ortley Beach residents know just how devastating a hurricane can be. That’s why they’re using the 10-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy to “pay it forward” and help people dealing with Hurricane Ian.

They will be gathering at 5 p.m. on October 29 at St. Elisabeth Church, Third Avenue, in Ortley. There will be an opening ceremony in the church followed by a candlelight service on the boardwalk. However, rather than candles, people are being asked to purchase a flashlight. The flashlights will then be brought back to the church and packed into a donation box after the service. Light refreshments will also be served.

Additionally, there will be computer stations set up at the church to accept monetary donations for relief organizations benefiting those responding to Hurricane Ian. The organizers ask that if you make a donation to these groups on another date, let them

know so they can track the success of the fund drive. (You do not need to disclose the amount.)

The victims and non-profit organizations currently need money more than goods. Volunteers from Ortley have vetted the organizations that will benefit:

The community of Fort Myers: fmbcommunityfoundation.com/

Samaritan’s Purse: (they were immensely generous to Sandy victims)

Harry Chapin Food Bank: harrychapinfoodbank.org/take-action/give-time/ volunteer/

The Wildest: thewildest.com/pet-lifestyle/ how-to-help-dogs-and-cats-hurricane-ian Cajun Army; List of items on Amazon (Cajun Army was very helpful to us after Sandy): thecajunarmy.com/ United Survivors Disaster Relief (founded by Sandy Survivors): paypal.com/ donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_ id=B5TMEN9DPQAUQ

•Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

What Are Over- e-Counter Hearing Aids?

Also called “OTCs” or “OTC hearing aids,” these devices are a new class of hearing instruments that are specific to the U.S., regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and approved only for those 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.

How Do OTCs Differ from Traditional Hearing Technology?

Unlike today’s prescriptive and customizable hearing aids fit by a licensed hearing care professional, OTCs are designed only for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. They might not align with one’s actual hearing loss, which could be greater than perceived.

What Will These Over-the-Counter Devices Cost?

Prices may range from the hundreds to the low thousands. As with many products, the price will likely vary across manufacturers and other sellers. What’s the Best Way to Know Whether OTCs Are Right for Me?

Self-diagnosis can lead to under- or overtreatment of hearing loss, both of which can affect your health and quality of life. The best way to learn what’s happening with your hearing and which solution most effectively addresses your needs is to connect with a licensed hearing care provider.

Will I Get Help Choosing an OTC?

It may depend on where you buy it. With the product expected to be available for self-selection at local drugstores, big-box retailers such as Best Buy, online, and elsewhere, a sales clerk will likely not have expertise in hearing health to guide you in your purchase.

What If I Go Forward with OTC Hearing Aids?

It’s possible the OTCs you select may suffice in the present. Future needs, however, may require other solutions. Regular professional checkups can help you keep an eye on your hearing wellness plan and make any needed updates. Before purchasing an OTC, carefully read the reviews and know exactly what their return policy is.

Hearing problems can stem from excess noise, genetic history, earwax buildup, infection, or some other source that self-treating with OTCs may cause you to miss. A hearing care professional can help you determine whether the OTC hearing aid is actually meeting your better-hearing goals.

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer most of your hearing health care questions. We can be reached at 732-8183610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-9788946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www. gardenstatehearing.com.

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

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

L.E.A.P.,

Teaching Children Supporting families

Catalase Protects DNA And Mitochondrial Function

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Catalase is an enzyme that was first noticed in 1818, and almost a century later in 1900, a scientist named Oscar Loew gave us its name. He found catalase in both animal tissue and plant matter.

This enzyme is equally important to human beings as its sister called “glutathione.” You probably heard of that because it’s promoted in many natural health circles as our master antioxidant. But catalase is equally important and today’s information is devoted to the benefits of catalase.

You secrete catalase from the liver. Hydrogen peroxide is produced by every single cell in your body as part of natural metabolism, but like other cytokines, it can become excessive. If you don’t neutralize it and break it down right away, the free radical tilts your body in the direction of pain and rusting (more grey hair, gloomy feelings and other signs of aging and disease).

Most research on catalase is centered around cancer. That’s because levels of H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) and free radicals are very high in patients with cancer. It may be one of the contributing factors of how DNA strands get damaged. There isn’t a ton of research on catalase, like there is on glutathione, but what is out there is quite compelling.

We know that antibodies can be formed against the CAT gene and therefore, in certain autoimmune conditions (possibly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), catalase secretion is low. If that’s low, peroxide is high, and remember, peroxide = pain.

There are catalase supplements, I even make one! But that’s not what I am referring to here. When I say “catalase,” I don’t mean a pill, I mean the enzyme you produce in your body… the enzyme that is secreted naturally from your own liver.

I am NOT saying that taking a supplement helps any disease because 1) we simply don’t know that and 2) we can’t say it if we know it.

Catalase supplements which are sold nationwide, have the following impact:

1. Catalase helps reduce oxidation processes in the body*

2. Catalase turns hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen*

3. Catalase protects DNA and mitochondrial function*

Before I end this, this whole business of looking more attractive. We as a population will spend a lot of money on cosmetics, fillers, facials and other beauty treatments deemed special. It’s just so we can look in the mirror, and like what we see. We forget that the fastest way to look old and crinkly is to go out into the sun without sunscreen or a hat.

Catalase works from within to prevent rusting. It does so by breaking down H2O2. Catalase will not act as a “filler” so don’t expect that, but it could perhaps ease the signs of aging if your skin cells have been damaged from prior treatments or radiation. Time may steal our youth, but it does it faster in people who are short on catalase. For a more detailed version of my article visit suzycohen.com.”

R.C.

Inside The Law

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

Have you thought about giving a fancy new gadget as a holiday gift? Or maybe there’s something on your wish list that Santa forgot to bring? If so, you might be tempted by an Ad to purchase high-tech gadgets for a low price. But if a merchant, other than Amazon.com, asks you to pay using an Amazon gift card then it’s probably a scam. In fact, Amazon’s gift card terms don’t allow you to use Amazon gift cards to make payments anywhere besides amazon.com and a few specific sites.

Here’s how the scam happens: You discover a website that sells new HDTVs, GPS devices, and other tech-gadgets for deeply discounted prices. You haven’t heard of the site, but you’re diligent and you do some research. You fi nd a few reviews from satisfied customers, you think the site is legitimate, and you go for it.

During checkout, you’re instructed to purchase an Amazon gift card and then hand over the gift card information as payment. Unfortunately, if you do, you’ll be out the money, and you won’t get anything in return. These scammers know that bad reviews scare people away, so they may post a few positive reviews about the site. They shut down the

site before people post complaints — usually in less than a month — and open under a new name somewhere else.

Buying an Amazon gift card to make a payment is NOT the same as using Amazon Payments, which provides some protections for buyers. Amazon Payments is a feature that allows Amazon members to pay for merchandise on other websites by logging in and using a payment method they’ve stored on their Amazon account. For example, if you use a credit card stored in your Amazon Payments account, you’re still using your credit card to make the purchase, and you get certain protections when you use a credit card. You don’t have the same protections when you pay with a gift card — virtually or physically. It could be tough to trace the money or get it back if something goes wrong. Of course, that’s not a problem if you’re sending the gift card to a friend or family member as a gift.

When shopping online, consider using a payment method that offers protections if you don’t get what you paid for.

From everyone here at R.C. Shea & Associates, have a safe, happy and healthy Holiday season.

Real Estate

Jackson - House For Sale By Own er. Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres. 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths, unfinished full basement, 1 car attached ga rage, baseboard heat. For sale as is $489,000. 732-691-9845.

Moving Sale

Moving Everything Must Go - Din ing room, end, coffee, sofa, tables, yarn, etc. 42 Keene St., Whiting, Vil lage 7. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat/Sun. (46)

Estate Sale - Bedrooms, dining room, kitchen, office corner, com puter desk & cabinets, assorted hanging pictures, plants and trees, large buffet and mirror-marble top, garage refrigerator and wine cooler. Sale days Nov, 5th & 6th. Preview Nov 4th - By appointment only. 732-995-0509, Dom Fusco. (46)

Personals

Senior Single Males 70+

friendship, companionship

732-678-

-

Misc.

Gift Auction and Pancake

Items For

ATTN Hunter's - Carry your deer easy on this carry on hitch. Packer steel grate. New. Used only once. Asking $55. 732-276-8389.

Items Wanted

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

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

Buying Selmer Saxophones And

Vintage Models - Also

World War II Military items.

609-581-8290.

CLASSIFIEDS

Services

Services Services Services

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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (48)

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

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)

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. (46)

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)

Cleaning Home or Office -Week ly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly. Available Toms River, Beachwood, Pine Beach. Decades of Experience, Free Esti mate, 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, 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)

HIRING NOW!! The Goddard School of Toms River Route 70 is urgently hiring Assistant Teachers and Teacher Aides to

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

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 Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Dem olition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster ser vice provided by A901 Licensed Haul er ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

ISO

(43)

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)

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

mulch, stone. Spring/Fall cleanups. pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (42)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shop ping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family func tions, 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 re pair, pressure washing, decks, stained. Email santwag@aol.com. 908-3275471. 13VH05784200. (41)

(31)

Advertise in the main sec tions of Micromedia’s week ly newspapers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Our skilled team of account ex ecutives can work with any budget. Call 732-657-7344 ext. 206 for more information.

Garden State Medical Centercurrently looking for qualified candi dates to fill their medical assistant, re ceptionist, and surgical technician posi tions. If you would like to apply or have any questions, call 732-202-3000. (45)

Services

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)

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 Stain ing, LLC - Interior and exte rior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

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.

through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Carmenshairstyles.com (43)

Police Warn Residents Of Two Men Scoping e Targets

By Alyssa Riccardi

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Police Department is reminding residents to lock their cars and homes after receiving several reports of two men driving through neighborhoods looking for potential theft targets. These reports stem from Sunday afternoon around 3:30 p.m. after residents described a grey Jeep Grand Cherokee slowly driving through the New Hampshire Avenue and North Maple neighborhoods. Callers further told police that the car was

occupied by two black men wearing ski caps and they appeared to be canvassing the area. Police said that they possibly entered a resident’s vehicle on Donna Dee Court, but were not successful.

The car was then seen driving on New Hampshire into Lakewood and then seen northbound on the Garden State Parkway. It was later determined that the vehicle was reported stolen out of Old Bridge, police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Toms River Police Department.

Brick Township ProviderRecognized For Quality Care And Services

BRICK – Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Brick Township has been named one of the nation’s top skilled nursing facilities in Newsweek’s “America’s Best Nursing Homes 2023.”

The 163-bed center, located at 1049 Burnt Tavern Road, provides post-hospital care, short-term rehab and long-term residential care.

“This honor reflects the efforts of the entire team at Willow Springs to provide the highest level of care and services,” said Pam Montemurno, regional director of market development at Marquis Health Consulting Services, which supports the facility. “We congratulate Willow Springs on this well-deserved recognition.”

Newsweek, in partnership with global data research firm Statista Inc., announced its America’s Best Nursing Homes 2023 in October, identifying the nation’s top 475 facilities across 25 states. This year’s criteria include a

performance data score, reputation score and a COVID-19 score, in relation to instate competition.

Willow Springs maintains a fivestar rating for quality measures from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). In addition to its clinical programming, Willow Springs is committed to serving as a healthcare resource for the community. To that end, the facility has established a library of physician-curated content, addressing many topics of interest; it can be found at willowspringsrehab.com.

Brick, NJ-based Marquis Health Consulting Services provides administrative and consulting services to skilled nursing facilities and senior housing communities along the Eastern Seaboard. The organization’s operational guidance enables its client facilities to overachieve their quality and customer service goals by embracing a progressive, multi-specialty approach to healthcare.

Funeral Home

Serving the community with dignity and compassion since 1869.

Susan C. Dunigan

T. Palino

M.

Manager, NJ Lic.

Director, NJ Lic.

Planning Director, NJ Lic.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Residents Rescue Woman From Apartment Fire

By Alyssa Riccardi

TOMS RIVER – Two residents saved a woman from a burning apartment that damaged multiple units on the evening of October 23, police said.

Police arrived to an apartment complex on Edgewood Drive around 11:20 p.m. regarding a structure fi re. Officers were met with residents who were already outside and assisting with evacuating the building.

Residents Jordan Finkle and Dominic Dowd helped rescue a woman from the blaze, police said. Although they did not see or hear anyone else, the woman told officers that another person was inside.

Officer Tyler Pinto climbed onto the balcony of the apartment trying to fi nd the alleged entrapped person but he did not see or hear anyone in the apartment.

Police said the apartment began billowing black smoke and at that time the Toms River Fire Department arrived on scene to extinguish the fi re.

The woman was brought to Community Medical Center for treatment of smoke inhalation, police said.

After the fi re was extinguished, fi rst responders search the building multiple times and confi rmed there was no sign of anyone else inside.

Multiple apartments were damaged and deemed uninhabitable as a result of the fi re, police said. The American Red Cross was contacted and responded to the scene to help aid the residents.

At this time, the cause of the fi re is unknown and remains under investigation by the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention, the Toms River Police Detective Bureau, and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. Also assisting on scene was the Ocean County Sheriff ’s Department CIU, multiple fi re companies, and CSO/EMTs.

Toms River Police Department acknowledges the quick-thinking and heroic actions of the residents who came together to ensure everyone was able to get out of the apartments safely. Also, to Samantha Batiato who along with neighbors rendered aid to the victim and monitored her condition while waiting for fi rst responders to arrive.

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Omarr’s

ARIES (March 21-April 19): The early bird has the best shot at getting the worm. Get important jobs taken care of as soon as possible as free time may become scarce as the week wears on. Gather proof that a source is reliable before you act on their info.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): There’s no time like the present. Get a head start on the work week by laying the groundwork for upcoming projects early in the day. Schedules may be thrown off in the week ahead and disturb important plans.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Full speed ahead. Push the pedal to the metal so you can clear off your to-do list while the sun shines today. Plans may change unexpectedly in the upcoming week so remain flexible and prepared.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Remember to respect boundaries and observe social cues. Unintentionally crowding a recent acquaintance may create an unnecessary issue. Avoid starting important tasks without discussing things through with others.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Cross that bridge when you come to it. Concentrate on making adequate preparations for an upcoming task. Taking definitive action too soon could create problems. Decline volunteering for extra responsibilities.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Take your time. Work at your own pace because giving in to peer pressure and rushing through a job may only lead to a disappointing result. Steer clear of confrontations with other people that could cause a rift.

By Jeraldine Saunders

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): Put yourself in the other person’s shoes. If someone is cranky with you this week, it may simply be because they are under pressure, don’t take it personally. Reserve judgment until you know the facts.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t get too grandiose. Avoid letting recent successes cause you to take on a big project that could turn out to be too much. Stay in your personal comfort zone this week and stick to doing what you do best.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep it discreet if your opinions differ from the consensus of those around you. Avoid tensions by steering clear of volatile issues in the upcoming week. Remember that positive ends can never justify negative means.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Try to anticipate problems before they arise and work around them to ensure that they don’t become a larger issue. Trust your gut feelings in the week ahead.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) : You can’t please all the people all the time. Don’t let it upset you if you find yourself at odds with someone. Remember you are entitled to your opinion just as they are. Use tact in the week ahead.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) : Stick with what you know. Avoid discussing topics you are unfamiliar with as it may be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Take care not to let popular sentiment influence your judgments this week.

By America’s Test Kitchen

BEAN CHILI

(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.

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