2022-11-12 - The Toms River Times

100-Year-Old Navy Veteran Recalls His Service In WWII

County Marine Unit Stars In Save Barnegat Bay Video

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER –

Roman Charkowski recently enjoyed his 100th birthday whichthanks to family mem bers and the staff at his residence at Rose Garden Nursing & Re hab Center - it made for quite a celebration.

The World War II

Navy veteran has lived at the facility at 1579 Old Freehold for sever al years now. Rose Gar den Activities Director Kevin Bassinder was one of the main orga nizers of the celebration which featured a visit by Lieutenant Com mander James McCarty of Naval Weapons Sta

Photos courtesy Bob Vosseller and Rose Garden Nursing & Rehab Center, Toms River

(Left) Roman Charkowski shows off one of two tattoos he got during his service.

(Right) A vintage photo of Roman Charkow ski, a resident of the Rose Garden Nursing & Rehab Center in Toms River, in uniform during his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

tion Earle who greeted Charkowski and read him a letter.

Following some food, cake and family time, Township Mayor Mau

rice “Mo” Hill came in dressed in Navy whites to present a proclama tion to him.

“We would like to (Veteran - See Page 6)

Threat Made To Synagogues Follows Trend Of Rising Hate Crimes

By Chris Lundy

NEW JERSEY – A threat to synagogues in New Jersey reported by the FBI underscored what Jewish people in the state already knew: bias crimes against them are increasing.

Authorities were silent as to the exact nature of the threat, only that it was

“credible information” and that people should take heed of the warning.

“The FBI has received credible information of a broad threat to syna gogues in NJ. We ask at this time that you take all security precautions to protect your commu nity and facility. We will share more information

as soon as we can. Stay alert. In case of emer gency call police,” FBI Newark stated. “The FBI takes all threats serious ly and we are working with our law enforcement partners actively investi gating this threat. We are also engaged with our faith-based partners in the affected community.

We are taking a proactive measure with this warn ing while investigative processes are carried out.”

The location was not specified. The “affected community” could mean the Jewish community as opposed to a town or neighborhood.

Every year, the ADL

(Anti-Defamation League) Center on Ex tremism tracks incidents of antisemitic harass ment, vandalism and as sault in the United States. The number of incidents reported in 2021 was 2,717 - a 34% increase from 2020 and the highest number since (Threat - See Page 5)

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER - Britta

Forsberg smiled as she talked about the day when she stopped in on a whim to see Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy.

“His office asked me if I had an appointment,” said Forsberg. “Even after I told them no, the Sheriff agreed to meet

with me. I sat down and asked the Sheriff if I could get him a boat, would he use it.”

Forsberg serves as the Executive Director of Save Barnegat Bay and leads the fight to protect and restore this important waterway. She credits the Ocean County Sheriff’s de partment with going

(Bay - See Page 4)

School Board Member Defends New County Job

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER –

Critics have said that a school board mem ber who was recently hired to a county job was a political hire, but Lisa Contessa said politics had nothing to do with it.

The website RiseUp OceanCounty, which

has been called anti-Se mitic for how it covers development in Ortho dox Jewish areas, has had a different focus lately: the battle among Republicans in Ocean County.

In an article that was mostly an attack on GOP leader George

(Board - See Page 20)

─Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

The Sheriff Department’s vessel intended for more shallow waters was out in warranty repairs so the film crew went out on another marine unit boat.

Bay:

the life at the bottom,” Mastronardy explained. “It’s really what we need to keep the bay healthy.”

above and beyond.

According to Forsberg, Mastronardy considered her inquiry and said his department already had a marine unit with a boat. However, the Barnegat Bay advocate was on a mission – and pressed harder.

First, came the questions about how often the Sheriff’s boat went out to patrol the waters. The two then moved on to discuss the type of equip ment in use. Forsberg had a plan - and one that ultimately made sense.

“I explained to the Sheriff that we really needed a bigger presence on the bay,” shared Forsberg. “I told him I wanted to help him put together a proposal that would get the department an ap propriate vessel that could go into shallow waters and help more.”

The brainstorming between the county law en forcement head and the non-profit leader resulted in a matching grant award that has furthered the work intended to keep the Barnegat Bay safe. County records document that the Ocean Coun ty Sheriff’s department was able to purchase a new boat used in conjunction with a matching grant from the state.

The Ocean County Sheriff’s department pur chased the Reconcraft 24-foot patrol vessel with Waterjet Propulsion and Trailer for $249,814. Fortunately, it came with a warranty as Ocean County Sheriff’s officers had to use another vessel to embark on another special mission at the end of last month.

“The purpose of the jet boat is that because it doesn’t have propellers, it doesn’t disturb any of

Continued From Page 1 (Bay - See Page 20)

Lori Van Lenten, Fiscal Officer of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office said the State of New Jersey provided the money to pay for the officers who patrol the protected zones of the Barnegat Bay and educate boaters as to why they should not venture into areas of restoration and the future health of the bay.

“The State DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) awarded us $240,000 for salaries, and $30,000 to produce an educational video,” Van Lenten said.

A film crew went out with members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Marine Unit to put together informational resources. Sheriff’s Department Sgt. Rory Gronczewski headed out into the bay with other members of the marine unit for action shots in the patrol region.

According to Gronczewski, one of the purposes of the video is to educate the public about the Sedge Island Conservation Zone at the southern end of Island Beach State Park.

The marine unit primarily patrols on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Memorial Day until Labor Day. The team works hand in hand with New Jersey State Police as they are first line patrol units.

“One of the big things we are involved with the State Police are the floats and boats gathering at Tices Shoal,” said Gronczewski. “That’s in July when there are a lot of people out on the bay.”

The targeted areas patrolled by the Ocean Coun ty Sheriff’s Department generally run from the Seaside Bridge to the bridge leading into Long Beach Island. Those assigned to the marine unit bring a variety of skills and handle different

─Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

(Top): A crew put together a film featuring the Ocean County Sheriff’s Marine Unit on saving the Barnegat Bay.

(Bottom): Britta Forsberg of Save Barnegat Bay joined the Sheriff’s Department at the end of their filming to discuss the marine unit.

they started to record them in 1979.

It’s important to note that some in cidents don’t get reported, especially in the case of bias incidents against school-aged children.

Of the total, 1,776 were harassment, 853 were vandalism, and 88 were as sault. Regarding the assaults, there were 131 victims, and none of the attacks were fatal. Additionally, 77 of the attacks were without the use of a deadly weapon.

“Incidents in K-12 schools, colleges and universities increased in 2021 but were flat compared to the five-year average,” ADL reported. “In 2021, ADL logged 331 incidents at non-Jew ish K-12 schools (up 106% from 161 in 2020), and 155 incidents at colleges and universities (up 21% from 128 in 2020).

“In 2021, there were 525 logged in cidents at Jewish institutions such as synagogues, Jewish community cen ters, and Jewish schools, an increase of 61% from 327 in 2020. 413 were inci dents of harassment, 101 were incidents of vandalism and 11 were incidents of assault,” they said.

The top three states for incidents were New York (416), New Jersey (370), and California (367).

They were able to attribute 484 of the incidents to hate groups.

The Ocean and Monmouth County Pros ecutor’s Offices also let residents know they were taking the threat seriously.

“We at MCPO have contacted our local police chiefs to increase patrols at our synagogues, and are asking the general public, including our Jewish communi ties across Monmouth County: if you see something, say something by contacting local authorities,” the Monmouth Prose cutor’s Office said.

Ultimately, the threat was found but the police presence remained.

“The FBI has indicated that the source of the threat to synagogues in New Jer sey has been identified and mitigated,” Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said in a later statement. “In an abundance of caution, we will maintain an increased law enforcement presence around temples and synagogues. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners at the federal, State and local level to protect our houses of worship in Ocean County. We will take all necessary security precautions to ensure the safety of our residents in Ocean County. Even though the threat has been mitigated, please stay vigilant and remember, if you see something, say something!”

Lakewood Police also issued a state ment noting that it was working with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department to increase patrols of marked and unmarked vehicles.

“In addition, we have also deployed

specially trained rapid response offi cers. Although there isn’t any specific information pertaining to Lakewood, we are in communication with our local, county and federal counterparts in order to ensure the greatest protection to those we serve.”

Suspicious activity should be reported to your local police department, or you can call 911 or the Counterterrorism Watch Desk at 1-866-4-SAFE-NJ (1866-472-3365) or email tips@njohsp.gov.

Funding For Security

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security awarded 131 New Jersey faithbased and nonprofit organizations a total of $18.9 million from the Nonprofit Se curity Grant Program (NSGP). Through the NSGP, faith institutions will receive support to prevent, protect against, and recover from terrorist attacks, includ ing by installing physical security im provements, implementing emergency readiness programs, and improving community safety.

“We cannot ignore the disturbing rise in bias incidents and hate crimes, nor can we tolerate threats to any religious or cultural community,” said Senator Cory Booker when the grants were announced on October 13. “These security grants will help protect communities across New Jersey against dangerous hate-filled attacks and support our state’s vital in frastructure.”

“Because of our state’s proximity to

large metro areas, airports, seaports and transit hubs, New Jersey must re main vigilant and prepared to respond to any type of attack,” said Senator Bob Menendez. “This critical funding will provide our first responders and non profit organizations added resources to safeguard our communities and protect New Jersey residents.”

“No person should fear violence because of who they are or who they worship,” said Representative Tom Malinowski. “This crucial funding will bring peace of mind for thousands of residents in my district and help pre serve the religious freedoms we hold dear.”

Take Action

The ADL crafted an action plan for governmental figures as part of their audit of incidents, located here: adl. org/audit2021

1. Speak out against antisemitism and all forms of hate.

2. Fund protections for communal in stitutions.

3. Promote education on hate crimes for law enforcement officials.

4. Improve hate crime data collection.

5. Promote anti-bias, bullying preven tion, civics education and Holocaust and genocide education programs in elementary and secondary schools.

6. Protect democracy.

7. Fight extremism.

8. Address online antisemitism.

thank everyone who helped put this special day together for Roman’s 100th birthday,” Bassinder said. “At this time, I’d like to ask for everyone to please gather your coats and let’s take a walk to our next adventure.”

That adventure consisted of a parade of motorcycles honoring Charkowski that was led by McCarty. This also included local fire trucks and police honoring the veteran.

Everyone in the facility knows Char kowski and he seems to make it a point to know all of them as well. He’s known for his soulful hello and jokes.

The Navy veteran told The Toms River Times “I told Kevin I’ll book that room for next year when I’m 101. I don’t know what motorcycle group was there but I told everybody they promised me a Harley Davidson will be delivered to me tomorrow but darn it, it never came,” he said with a laugh.

Charkowski said he had a lot of stories connected to his days as a sailor in WWII. “I got assigned to a brand-new ship out of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a destroyer. It weighted 2,100 tons. We had shakedown around Bermuda, Pan ama Canal and we laid over one night and they let us go into town. All red light districts.

Veteran: Continued From Page 1 (Veteran - See Page 18)

“That was around Thanksgiving I

think but it was 118 degrees. They called each ship each to go through the canal but instead of meeting up with our fleet in Hawaii the captain made one stop in San Francisco. We anchored there and let us go into San Francisco that night. I followed the guys and we ended up in a bar. I was up at the bar and the bartender said what will you have and I said, the same as the others, a beer. He said, I can’t do that sir, you’re not 21. I was only 20 years old so I did without the beer,” he said.

Charkowski added, “we anchored off of Honolulu before we met up with the Fleet also and the captain let us go into town and shipmate said to me, Roman I’m going into Honolulu to get a tattoo. I told him I was not interested in that at all but I wanted to keep him company. We went to the tattoo parlor and while the guy was doing his tattoo, I was looking at the wall at the designs and I ended up with two tattoos.

“The tattoos are very interesting in that you can see the ink after 80 some thing years,” he said while rolling up his sleeves. “You see how well the ink held out. This was a father and son tattoo parlor. I have the other one on my right shoulder.”

He added, “I said to the dad ‘what do I owe you?’ and he said ‘Give me $5. Today it would be something like $700-$800 and I show them to other guys with tattoos to show them the

S potlight o n g overnment

Legislation To Expand Access To STEM Education

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (S2563) amending the New Jersey Department of Education grant program for STEM teachers established by the Governor in 2019. Signed amid a nationwide teacher shortage, the law will incentivize public school STEM teachers to participate in the program and ensure that nonpublic school students have access to STEM education.

The legislation expands the number of educators who are eligible to provide STEM instruction at nonpublic schools in addition to their public school duties. The law also broadens the hours at which public school teachers can teach at nonpublic schools, in addition to increasing teacher compensation for participating in the program.

“As we continue to support our students through the most formidable challenges of the 21st century, it is imperative that we continue to ensure that all students have access to a world-class STEM education,” said Governor Murphy. “Since the begin ning of my Administration, I have remained unwavering in my commitment not just to New Jersey children, but to the teachers responsible for our students’ instruction, safety, and wellbeing. The expansion of the program I signed into law three years ago will provide current and prospective public school educators with greater flexibility and compensation to provide STEM education to nonpublic school students.”

Primary sponsors for the legislation in clude Senators Vin Gopal and Shirley K. Turner and Assemblymembers Gary S. Schaer and Sterley S. Stanley.

“Given the difficult big picture envi ronmental, technological and biological questions facing our world, the need for

high-quality and diversified STEM classes, curriculum and instruction for our young people is more vital than ever,” said Sen ator Gopal, Chair of the Senate Education Committee. “By moving to further enhance the STEM educator grant program, we can attract more committed, well-qualified teachers to join the ranks, and feed the minds of hungry students who wish to pursue meaningful and worthwhile careers across the STEM spectrum.”

“The improved STEM Educator Grant Program is a crucial step in ensuring edu cational equity for every student in New Jer sey, regardless of what school they attend,” said Assemblyman Schaer. “Generous State funded grants will create needed opportu nities for our highly qualified public school teachers in nonpublic schools that cannot provide advanced STEM programming. This legislation represents an essential component of New Jersey’s historic in vestments in emerging technologies and groundbreaking innovations.”

“Educators throughout New Jersey share a common goal of wanting to provide stu dents with greater learning opportunities in school and greater chances for success after graduation,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-Mc Millan, Acting Commissioner of Education. “This legislation helps us move toward that goal by building upon incentives designed to introduce high-quality STEM course work to more New Jersey students.”

“This innovative program has expanded access to a STEM education for many communities and these changes will further enhance the ability of teachers to participate and for schools to utilize the educational opportunity it provides their students,” said Katie Katz, Executive Director of Teach NJ.

$153M To Help NJ Families Cover Heating Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Me nendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) announced $153.3 million from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to help residents across the state pay for home energy costs this winter. Funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is provided by the federal government and administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), will help low-income individuals and families pay for home heating costs and cover unpaid utility bills. 219,755 households across New Jersey benefited from LIHEAP in 2020.

“No family should have to choose between heating their home, putting food on the table, and buying medicine,” said Sen. Menendez. “As winter nears, it’s critical that low-income families and seniors across the state have the resources to

pay their bills and heat their homes. The additional funding Senator Booker and I helped secure will help even more New Jersey families who are struggling to make ends meet.”

“Funding LIHEAP is critical to making home energy affordable for low-income families and seniors,” said Sen. Booker. “This federal funding will provide much-needed relief to New Jersey families so they remain healthy and warm this winter. I am happy to see this funding awarded to our state when it is needed the most.”

In total, the Biden Administration announced $4.5 billion in LIHEAP funding nationwide. The funding includes an additional $1 billion for LIHEAP that Congress appropriated in the most recent budget extension, as well as an addi tional $100 million Sens. Menendez and Booker secured in the bipartisan infrastructure bill that was signed into law last year.

HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 309 Hooper Ave. • Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

F eatured l etter

Privately Educated Kids Need To Learn Diversity

Private schools need cultural diversity added to their curriculum to learn about others outside of their own ethnic group. Most private schools in our area are white stu dents. They are primar ily one ethnic group and learning cultural diversi ty will equip them for the business world and life!

A local church had a large homeschool net work and most of the stu dents were white and did not interact with many Black, Jewish, or Latino kids on a regular basis. They may not experience the awesome taste of an empanada, eating a falafel, hear the story of a civil rights fighter who changed the nation and basically engage in the natural education that comes from being around others.

I just reached out to a Christian-based ho meschool group to be a part of a youth advisory council, so they can have a voice at the table in the community in which they live. Because they want their youth to be separate, and not influenced by other youth in these for mative years, they have not joined in.

They have the Christian faith somewhat skewed, because those students should be walking in love and be a blessing to their fellow classmates and kids in the community.

The Orthodox communi ty needs this a great deal as well. The separation of their youth and com munity to pursue their relationship with G-d is a wonderful journey for any ethnic group, howev er, it causes many to not appreciate the beautiful aspects of diversity and their neighbor’s culture.

Mexican and Black people have issues, and yet they both have felt the pain of prejudice and dis crimination. “No Jews, Blacks and Mexicans” were the signs during Jim Crow. When you see another ethnic group experiencing what your people went through, there should be a degree of compassion and sup port.

Some in Black lead ership used to say, they want us to learn about the Holocaust yet do not want to talk about slavery.

I remember when the Jewish community start ed to change Holocaust studies and museums to Genocide studies. It is showing other eth nic groups we empa thize with the strategies their people endured, and when you care about them, it helps to make them care about you. People think if it is not affecting my people, we don’t care, and that is not cool. It is not reflective of the beautiful value to “do unto others as you would have done for you.” Let us celebrate the diversity of each other and make the places we call home for now, find moments of kindness, respect, and peace! Cultural Diversity is celebrating and learn ing the interesting and fun things about ethnic groups, and some of their challenges and even their dreams. If many in the private schools are pur suing a relationship with G-d, who is Love, they should realize that this beautiful cultural mosaic of mankind is what G-d designed!

Make Your Voice Heard –Write A Letter

For the past 45 years I have been writing letters to the editor on a variety of topics, and hopefully all were not just a glaring waste of trees. I remember, however, what my old creative writing pro fessor told me upon leaving his class for the last time: “No matter how wonderful you may think your writing is, remember that the next day it’s going to be used to wrap the garbage.”

I think what’s overlooked sometimes in writing letters to the editor, is the oppor tunity our area newspa pers give us to express our thoughts and opinions, even though we may lack the literary sophistication and elegance of a Hemingway or a Faulkner.

The Asbury Park Press, The Jackson Times, The TriTown News and in earlier times, the Lakewood Daily Times, and Ocean County Observer, all have over the years provided its readers with a chance to be heard.

When it comes to freedom of thought and freedom to write what you think, it is well we remember the words of the late journalist H.L. Mencken: “I know of no human right that is more valuable as the simple right to utter what seems (at the moment) to be the truth. Take away this right, and none other is worth a hoot, nor indeed,

Letters To The Editor

Dobbs Decision Mischaracterized

The League of Women Voters of Monmouth Coun ty (9/24/22) mischaracteriz es the recent Dobbs decision of the US Supreme Court. Since misinformation is so rampant, the co-pres idents of the LWVMon mouth should be more pre cise. Words are important. “The constitutional right to abortion” is a phrase so often repeated, that it is accepted as a fact. The Supreme Court found that a right to abortion is not found in the Constitution. It did not “overturn” this imputed right. Any study of the Constitution’s authors would make clear that they and their compatriots uni versally abhorred abortion. So no stretch of logic can seat a right to abortion in the Constitution. Even the feminist icon Ruth Bader Ginsburg recognized the frailty of Roe v. Wade. States will enact laws that allow and/or potentially limit abortion. That is as it should be in a republic. There are many voters who wish to protect and nurture unborn girls and boys.

Peter Eschmann Barnegat

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verifica tion. Letters may not be print ed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submit ted, 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@jerseyshore online.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 necessari ly reflect 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.

This letter is in response to “Preserve Columbus Day Holiday,” in the October 8 edition.

People keep wanting to preserve Columbus Day, but they don’t want to learn about what Columbus actu ally did.

First of all, Christopher Columbus never set foot on United States soil. He landed in South America, Central America, and the Caribbe an islands. But never in the states. He didn’t “discover America.” He was nowhere near America.

If we’re going to give him a holiday, it should be to learn what not to do. His story should be seen as a cautionary tale.

This was a man who en slaved natives, murdered and raped them. When slaves revolted, he had them killed, dismembered and paraded their body parts through their villages.

This is not someone who deserves their own day. There shouldn’t be a parade. There shouldn’t be anything but disgust for this man who committed atrocities.

How can you say you care about history when you don’t even know the history?

Jason Banes Toms River

are subject to only out-ofpocket co-pays. Medicare was never designed to pay 100% of eligible charges. If your coverage does handle your drug costs that way then you bought the wrong coverage but your coverage may be changed on your Supplemental Coverage at any time. So check with your advisor to find coverage that does the job you need done.

Further, price controls se verely limit the drug compa nies (to fund) their research projects on both improve ments in existing products and coming out with new ones to treat additional con ditions.

I do not know what took place in Congress but since the Democrats control both the House and Senate, per haps some Democrats didn’t vote for the bill either if the Bill did not pass. For any House or Senate member voted against the Bill, find out what their issues were.

Editor’s note: The measure failed 57-43. The bill had the majority vote, but the GOP used a parliamentary pro cedure to require 60 votes to win instead of 51.

J. Lindsay Fuller, CLU, RIA Beach Haven

I Voted Because My Ancestors Couldn’t

This year, I voted early to honor my Black and wom en ancestors, who weren’t allowed that freedom.

Your characterization of those bad Republicans refused to vote for the pro posed limitation on patient cost for insulin.

I have been in the Em ployee Benefit business for over 55 years and we dealt heavily with Group and In dividual Health Insurance.

If a Medicare enrollee purchases Supplemental Coverage, those normally

The fact that women only had the right to vote for 100 years shows how little our Founding Fathers thought of us. It wasn’t until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that codified it and kept states from enforcing voting laws that discriminated. In theory, at least. There’s still Jim Crow-style laws on the books and more being writ ten every day.

This is the history they don’t want you to learn.

Maya Brant-Jones Brick

Colin Lewis Love Your Neighbor of Ocean County

Response To “Why Did GOP Vote Against Lowering Insulin?”

It’s Time To Stop Celebrating Columbus

can any other exist.”

Borden Applegate Jackson

Ford Leads North Football

TOMS RIVER – On the heels of win ning Shore Sports Network’s Player of the Week, quarterback Micah Ford led High School North past in-district rival High School East on October 14 in what was a convincing win.

Ford proved tough to bring down, lead ing the Mariners in passing and scoring, running in scores from 2 and 39 yards, and connecting with Jeremiah Pruitt on a 50-yard touchdown. Pruitt also returned an interception and a fumble for scores, as North won big, 70-6.

The Mariners remain undefeated on the season at 8-0.

Beginner Astronomy

TOMS RIVER – Ever wonder what it takes to get started stargazing? Join Jim Webster from the Astronomical Society of the Toms River Area and learn about telescopes that can take your night viewing to a whole new level.

Beginner Astronomy program will be on

November 15 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Cooper Environmental Center Lecture Room, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River. Cost is $5 per person and open to ages 11 and up. Registration Form: bit. ly/39dKVn7. For more information, call 732-506-9090.

C ommunity n ew S

Holiday Gifts, Crafts, And Collectibles Faire

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Historical Society invited the public to attend their annual Holiday Gifts, Crafts and Collectibles Faire. Admis sion is free!

This year the Faire will be held on November 13 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in the Toms River High School South Cafetorium located off of Hooper Av enue in Downtown Toms River. Ocean County Historical Society President and event organizer, Jeff Schenker promises the event will be bigger and better than ever.

“We are so proud to have Ocean Coun ty Cultural and Heritage as a co-spon sor. There will now be exhibits telling the rich history of Ocean County,” Schenker said.

Schenker states that besides having over 70 vendors, there will also be the annual large 50/50 raffle, a one dollar

used book sale, a model train display and the very popular baked goods table.

According to Tim Hart, Director of Ocean County Cultural and heritage, “I am so pleased with the quality of the exhibiters this year. It is going to be a great day to do some Holiday shopping.”

Pat Moore, a Board member of the Ocean County Historical Society, who helped organize the Faire stated, “This is going to be almost one stop shopping for Holiday gifts and decorations. We have vendors displaying everything from jewelry, scented candles, bath soap, works of art, crocheted toys, hand painted glass bottles, gift baskets, greeting cards, pottery, bird houses, flags, ornaments, prints, designed cigar boxes, blankets and much more.”

For additional information, call Jeff at 609-339-9134. Vendor spots are sold out.

Aiming To Keep Parents Informed, District Touts Financial Aid, Genesis

TOMS RIVER – Guidance departments from all high schools hosted their annual Financial Aid Night on October 26, an event targeted at parents and guardians of district students. Eric Ginsburg, from Solution Prep, made an energetic and infor mative presentation that included such topics as:

• how to get the most free money to help pay for college

• how to reduce college expenses and avoid student debt

• how the changing financial aid landscape could affect families

• national and local scholarships

The program was designed to help parents and guardians learn about the ins and outs of potentially saving thousands off the cost of col lege, regardless of a family’s financial position.

Turnout for the event was great and the feedback was positive.

A week prior to that, the evening of October 20, High School East’s Hispanic Heritage Club held a seminar for Latino parents on how to use the Genesis Parent Portal.

Some key points discussed during the presen tation were navigating the Parent Portal to find student report cards, progress reports, attendance, and official forms, as well as how to communi cate with the staff. Parents also learned how to interpret the symbols in the Parent Portal and how those icons relate to different school policies.

Parents left the workshop equipped with tools to ensure their child’s success during their high school career.

More parent resources are available on the Parents page of the district website.

NOTICE OF MEETINGS

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE VOCATIONAL SCHOOL IN THE COUNTY OF OCEAN, in accordance with the provisions of the “Open Public Meetings Law”, P.L. 1975, c. 231, hereby establishes the following schedule of meetings to be held during 2022-2023. All meetings shall commence at 4:00 p.m. unless otherwise indicated.

Regular November 21, 2022 Monday

Regular December 15, 2022 Thursday

Regular January 19, 2023 Thursday

Regular February 16, 2023 Thursday

Regular March 16, 2023 Thursday

Regular April 27, 2023 Thursday

Regular May 18, 2023 Thursday

Regular June 15, 2023 Thursday

Year End June 30, 2023 Friday, 12:00 Noon

Regular July 20, 2023 Thursday, 12:00 Noon

Regular August 17, 2023 Thursday, 12:00 Noon

Regular September 21, 2023 Thursday

Regular October 19, 2023 Thursday

Reorganization November 1, 2023 Wednesday, 12:00 Noon

Meetings will be held in the Conference Room in the Administration Building, at 137 Bey Lea Road, Toms River, New Jersey unless otherwise indicated.

PLEASE NOTE FURTHER, that the public shall not be permitted to actively participate in the Executive Sessions and that the Board of Education of the Vocational School in the County of Ocean in its discretion may prohibit or regulate participation at any meeting.

609.857.6000

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

Includes Lunch Before Show and Orchestra Seat.

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

Includes Lunch Before Show.

DEC. 4 WIND CREEK CASINO $56/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play,5 Hour Stay.

DEC. 12 A DAY IN AMISH LANCASTER $84/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Visit to Kitchen Kettle, Bird n Hand Bakery.

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. 13 CHRISTMAS IN CAPE MAY $165/pp

Includes Dinner at Lobster House, Trolly Christmas Lights Tour & More.

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

DEC. 31 NEW YEARS AT NOON $146/pp Includes A Family Style Lunch, Live Music and Dancing, Comedian, 12 noon Champagne Toast.

JAN. 18 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL $219/pp Includes lunch before show & Orchestra Seat.

JAN. 18 SOME LIKE IT HOT MUSICAL $212/pp Includes Lunch Before Show & Orchestra Seat.

JAN. 22 MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS $144/pp

Includes Lunch & Show at The Dutch Apple Dinner Theater.

JAN. 25 MJ MUSICAL $212/pp

Includes Lunch Before Show & Orchestra Seat.

MAR. 30 MY MOTHER’S ITALIAN..MY FATHER IS JEWISH.. I’M IN THERAPY $99/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play, $15 Food Voucher and Show Ticket.

APR. 19 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL $219/pp Includes Lunch Before Show & Orchestra Seat.

Always Included Bottled Water & Snacks, Company Escort, All Gratuities Bus Departures Toms River (Exit 81 West Water Street NJT Station) • Brick Target (Route 70) Please Visit Our Website for All Upcoming Trips & Itineraries

North’s Fraticelli Nets Career Goal Number 200

able feat. In fact, Fraticelli

TOMS RIVER – Congratulations to High School North field hockey star Olivia Fraticelli, who on October 17 netted her 200th career goal, a remark

became just the fourth field hockey player in state history to notch 200 goals in a high school career.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A

Dr. Izzy’s

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What Are Over-The-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 Tradition al Hearing Technology?

Unlike today’s prescriptive and custom izable hearing aids fit by a licensed hear ing 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 prod ucts, the price will likely vary across manufacturers and other sellers.

What’s the Best Way to Know Wheth er 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 hear ing 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, how ever, may require other solutions. Regular professional checkups can help you keep an eye on your hearing wellness plan and make any needed updates. Before purchas ing 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.

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

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

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

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

3 Harmful Ingredients May Be In Your Nail Polish

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

When you have to do a lot of dishes, laundry, and other household chores, your nail polish isn’t going to stay on very long. Perhaps you’ve turned to using a lot of nail polish, or maybe you go to salons to have them apply the long-wearing shellac/gel nail polish with the UV light.

You may be thinking, “So what? It doesn’t get into my body anyway.”

But it does, and studies prove it. Certain chemicals in nail polish can be easily absorbed into the body. So the main point I’d like to make today is that whatever you expose your fingertips and fingernails to does actually get into your bloodstream.

We know it’s a big problem because huge, beloved brand names (ie Orly and OPI, and others) have gone to great lengths to reformulate their nail lacquers to avoid the “toxic trio.”

The toxic trio consists of formaldehyde, toluene and DPB (dibutyl phthalate). I’m not saying those brands are chemical-free entirely.

Does doing your nails pose a health problem for you?

It depends on what you are doing to them. Are you putting acrylic on them, or shellac gel polish which contains acrylates?

2) Are you just putting regular nontoxic nail polish on them?

I do think the answer to that question is important. And #2 is much safer than #1 in my humble opinion.

Tips for beautiful nails

The following tips will help you achieve more beautiful hands and nails with much less toxic chemical exposure.

1. Wear gloves - it’s so easy, and re duces the frequency that you’ll have to re-polish.

2. If don’t paint your own nails, then find a local salon that smells fresh and chemical-free. Steer clear of the ones that have a strong odor. Avoid inhaling all types of potentially-hazardous chemicals if you have a history of serious chronic illness, for example cancer.

3. Choose nontoxic nail lacquers in order to avoid the toxic trio.

4. Opt for a regular manicure, not shellac or gel which contain acrylates.

5. Use non-acetone nail polish remover.

6. Strengthen your nails naturally from the inside out. Supplements that contain collagen, vitamin C, B vitamins, and silica may help with nails.

7. Take a detox supplement afterward. I suggest either L-cysteine or “NAC” capsules. Alternatively, you could use glutathione and catalase for antioxidant support.

Studies have not confirmed that a person is healthier during their lifetime because they avoid nail polish and acetone. Like wise, studies have not confirmed that you get a disease from regular beauty treatments either! So, take these tips into consideration and do what you think is right for you.

For a more detailed version of my article visit suzycohen.com

Sophia Merlino Of Toms River Named 2022-2023 Governor’s STEM Scholar

TOMS RIVER – The Governor’s STEM Scholars announced today Sophia Merlino of Toms River has been accepted as one of 128 New Jersey high school and college STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) students in their 2022-2023 class, the largest class the program has seen since its founding in 2013.

The Governor’s STEM Scholars is a pub lic-private partnership between the Research & Development Council of New Jersey, the Office of the Governor, the New Jersey Department of Education, the New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education, and public and private research institutions based in New Jersey.

The Governor’s STEM Scholars believes that maintaining a pipeline of talented individuals is critical to maintaining excellence in inno vation. In recognition of this, the Governor’s STEM Scholars was created to engage the next generation of research and innovation leaders in the state’s vast STEM economy early.

“New Jersey has always been at the center of innovation excellence and scientific discovery led by some of the world’s most talented STEM professionals. The Governor’s STEM Scholars looks to secure this legacy into the future by inspiring students who will make up the next generation of these scientists, engineers, and innovators. As we welcome 128 exceptional high school and college STEM students into our 2023 Governor’s STEM Scholars class, we look forward to seeing the impact they make on the Garden State, the country and across the globe,” said Anthony Cicatiello, President of the Research & Development Council of New Jersey.

The Governor’s STEM Scholars introduces New Jersey’s high achieving high school and college students to industry, academic, and government research in New Jersey, to es tablish a profound relationship between these students, STEM, and New Jersey. By making genuine connections between the Scholars and

STEM representatives from the research com munity, we are keeping these STEM students here to become New Jersey’s future STEM professionals.

Throughout the academic year, Sophia Mer lino will participate in four conferences to ex plore different aspects of New Jersey’s STEM economy focusing on STEM in government, academia, and industry. During the 2022-23 programmatic year, these conferences will be held at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy at Rutgers University, Rowan University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Stevens In stitute of Technology. Scholars will participate in a research project, led by undergraduate and graduate-level Scholars, that advances the work of New Jersey’s research community. Additionally, Scholars will tour New Jersey STEM facilities and laboratories and network with STEM professionals, to gain a 360° view of STEM opportunities throughout the state. This year marks the ninth class of Scholars.

See Page 17)

─Photo courtesy Governor’s STEM Scholars (Sophia -

Continued From Page 16

The Governor’s STEM Scholars is proud that its class represents the diversity of New Jersey. Eighty-four percent of the Scholars identify as a Person of Color; 30 percent with a racial identity underrepresented in STEM fields, specifically Black, Latinx or Indigenous. Six ty-four percent of the 2022 class are female and 36 percent male. Eighteen percent of the Scholars are or will be first-generation college students. The Scholars come from across the state and represent 20 of New Jersey counties. When they graduate in May 2023, they will join an alumni cohort of over 700 students.

The Scholars were selected from a pool of more than 600 applicants. Scholars must have at least a 3.5 GPA, be a high school sopho more through doctorial-level student at a New Jersey-based high school or university, and demonstrate a passion for STEM.

The Governor’s STEM Scholars is free for all Scholars to attend, due to sponsorships by BASF, Bristol Myers Squibb, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Ocean Wind 1, the PSEG Foundation, Spencer Savings Bank, Stryker, and Verizon.

Sophia Merlino is a senior at Toms River High East STEAM Academy.

Read more about Sophia Merlino and all the 2022-2023 Governor’s STEM Scholars at govstemscholars.com/scholars.

Hooper Teacher Named ‘Exemplary Educator’

TOMS RIVER – Each year, the New Jersey Department of Education invites public school districts to participate in the Exemplary Educator Recognition Program, which has a mission to identify outstanding educators for special recog nition. One such Toms River Regional Schools teacher was indeed recognized as part of this program.

Hooper Avenue Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Amy Mackle is now,

officially, an exemplary educator.

“Mrs. Mackle’s everlasting impact on all students academically, emotionally, and socially cannot be overstated,” said Hooper Avenue Principal Jason Hughes. “Her classroom exists as a true exemplar to the profession.”

A state certificate of recognition was giv en to Mackle, who has taught at the school for 28 years. Congratulations to Amy Mackle on this well-deserved recognition!

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Veteran:

Continued From Page 6

difference between the ink and the price. The son did the second one and I said ‘What do I owe you?’ and he said $5.50.”

Regarding the military engagements he was involved in, Charkowski said, “my first engagement was on the Jap anese Island of Kwajalein. Two inter esting things I remember vividly, is when we went by Guam we saw what we thought were civilians taking a run diving off the cliff committing suicide. We figured they thought that rather be

captured in Japanese hands they’d be better off. But others told me it might have been the Japanese themselves who wanted to get away from it all too but we really didn’t know.

“I was in the service from 1942 to 1945. I became an election mate on board ship. I was never sea sick and I would tease those who were sea sick They’d be over at the railing and I’d be eating a pork chop,” the veteran joked.

As to his secret of longevity, Char kowski shared it saying, “very easy for me to say but very difficult for you to do and more difficult for a woman to do, and that is simply, just don’t worry about a blessed thing. It is tough to do.”

ESL Family Night A ‘Spook-tacular’ Time

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools haunted houses, use M&Ms to experiment with color mixtures, problem solve to “save” Fred the gummy worm, and create chemical reactions to make their pumpkin “explode.” It was a SPOOK-tacular event, and the district ESL team is already looking forward to the next get together.

Choosing The Right Auto Insurance Will Protect Your Family And Assets

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

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

Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. The failure to carry automobile insur ance may be punishable by imprisonment. When purchasing automobile insurance, you have two choices; you are required to select either a Basic Policy or a Standard Policy. We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.

The Basic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in sev eral areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries. The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else. The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets.

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

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

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

By choosing the “limitation on lawsuit op tion” you are limiting you legal right to make a claim for monetary damages unless you sustain one of the following injuries: Death, Dismemberment; Significant scarring or disfigurement; Displaced Fractures; Loss of Fetus or a Permanent Injury that can been di agnosed by credible, objective medical testing.

Selecting the correct insurance coverage is extremely important when it comes to protecting your family and personal assets.

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

Soroptomist International Of The Central Jersey Coast Fundraiser

TOMS RIVER – Soroptomist Inter national of the Central Jersey Coast is holding a direct shipment fundraiser. There are many options to choose from. Supporters can pick their delivery date

from just before Thanksgiving through early December. visit the following website to place your order: three riversfundraising.com/fundraiser/ sorocjc-wr22.

Bay: Continued From Page 4

aspects on the water.

On some occasions, the tasks range from rescu ing boaters in distress or enforcing fishing/game laws. Another important goal stresses education and enforcement in sensitive environmental areas.

“I think the video is going to be used particularly in locations where people are renting and pur chasing jet skis and those types of equipment,” Forsberg shared. “What’s happening is people want to come and have a great time on the bay and don’t realize how sensitive the bay is here.” Gronczewski suggested that parts of the video would be valuable to people who get involved in boater safety programs to obtain boater licenses.

The Barnegat Bay can be chaotic during the summer months and authorities think the video will act as a great way to ensure people learn about the local ecology. This includes educating the public about the laws that regulate waterways. In the case of the marine conservation zone, there are islands surrounded by shallow waters. The uneducated may not understand the threat boats and jet skis represent when it comes to the area.

“Just inside the inlet, creatures who live in the ocean want to reproduce and have young off spring,” described Forsberg. “They raise them there for a little bit until they’re big enough to go back into the ocean.”

Forsberg explained that the habitat that grows on the backside of the barrier islands needs to remain undisturbed to allow the young to develop in the native grasses. It’s possible to dip a net in

the water and come across baby flounder and even tiny shrimp.

“There are critters coming up and down the East Coast trying to come into this estuary,” Forsberg said. “It’s a quieter space that has brackish water and is not as salty.”

The bottom line comes down to scientists studying the area and suggesting it would be best if heavy activity was limited in the Sedge Island Conservation Zone. The area is a park and open space that is best suited to some fishing and crabbing normally considered traditional Barnegat Bay activity.

“We don’t want commercial clamming there,” emphasized Forsberg. “We want the clams to reproduce, although people can recreationally clam with a permit.”

Many who rent or own jet skis do not realize the harm they can cause when they come to edge of the marsh. Jet skis suck up water and bay life and spit it back out.

The concept of educating others to save the Bar negat Bay has received enormous support at the state level and marine trades association.

“The recreational boating industry depends heavily on clean water and a healthy boating environment. Everyone who enjoys our beautiful waterways must work together to protect and preserve these natural resources,” wrote Melissa Danko, Executive Director of Marine Trades As sociation of New Jersey. “As an industry, we not only develop new technologies and clean boating practices, but we provide the information, resourc es and infrastructure to help boaters do their part to protect the environment and reduce impacts. Together, we can all protect our natural resources for this generation and generations to come.”

Board:

Continued From Page 1

Gilmore, Contessa was mentioned in a group of people who are getting jobs through his patronage. They said she is a “self-described homemaker” and “likely Toms River mayoral candidate.” They accuse the Ocean County Utilities Authority of arranging for the position of executive assistant for her. It was claimed that it was a $95,000 position.

The previous person who held that position, Kathleen Balassone, retired. According to doc uments, her annual salary was $86,149.34, plus health benefits. Contessa’s is $77,000.01, plus health benefits.

for the position that I am currently in.

“I took a hiatus from the work force for a little over 5 years to focus on my family. I left of my own volition from OceanFirst Bank, on excellent terms, due to several tragedies that occurred in my personal life,” she said. “I lost my brother and both parents, all unexpectedly, within a very short period of time from one another. My position at OceanFirst as (Vice President of Marketing) was quite stressful and my children needed me. I would have re-entered the workforce sooner, but then the pandemic hit and thankfully I was able to home school and help both my children through this difficult time.

CONTRAST IS IMPORTANT

People generally think of vision in terms of size and distance, or visual acuity, but being able to read to the bottom of the eye chart doesn’t mean a vision problem doesn’t exist. Contrast sensitivity is what helps us separate objects with similar coloring in poor light conditions such as at night or in fog or glare. When sensitivity is low it can make things like driving at night or walking without tripping over bumps or edges in the sidewalk difficult. Low contrast sensitivity can be dealt with by purchasing eyeglasses with yellow tinted lenses or by adding an antireflective coating to prescription glasses. For some, wavefront LASIK can improve contrast sensitivity.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the minimum age a person can undergo LASIK eye surgery is 18. SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES recommends patients have a consistent prescription for either their eyeglasses or contact lens for at least 12 months before considering surgery to avoid the risk of their vision changing afterward. When you need eye care, please call 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Low contrast sensitivity can be a sign of more serious conditions including diabetes, cataracts, or glaucoma.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622 BRICK (732) 477-6981

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

“Gilmore used one of the few areas in County government where he does have influence, the Ocean County Utilities Authority, to arrange for Contessa’s new job,” Rise Up stated.

The Toms River Times reached out to Contessa for her response.

“This is just political shenanigans arising out of a fight amongst Republicans in Toms River, which is very unfortunate,” Contessa said. “In my opinion, there is no story here but in my defense I would say that first of all I’m not a ‘homemaker.’

I have a Master’s Degree in Business Adminis tration and 25+ years of work experience in the corporate sector. I have worked in radio, where I was an Executive Assistant to the Production Manager throughout college and graduate school. I worked many years in manufacturing in various roles and…there is my time in banking and fi nance at OceanFirst. So, I have a lot of experience

“The position of Executive Assistant here was not handed to me as I went through a very rigorous interview process along with many other applicants. I became aware of the position because it was advertised publicly and I believe I am the most qualified of all the applicants, otherwise I would not have been hired and I am grateful for the opportunity I’ve been afforded here,” she said.

“I am not sure what my position here has to do with George Gilmore as he’s not associated with the OCUA. He doesn’t work here and he is not on the Board,” she added.

“The mudslinging articles are very unfortunate but because I am a Toms River School Board member, which is an elected position. I am aware of the political tactics and attacks and am not really concerned. I am who I am, I support those I believe in and I stand by my conservative values, so I guess the ‘haters’ are going to do what they do and spew lies from their basement keyboards,” she said.

CLASSIFIEDS

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. (1)

3 BD, 1 BA, 1,200 SQ FT House

For Sale - Brick, Great garage, only 1 close neighbor, driveway & parking lot. $520,000. 732-4759107. Only Mortgage in place. Serious inquiries only. (48)

Estate Sale

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)

Misc.

Gift Auction and Pancake Break fast - Holiday City at Silverton. 1846 Yorktowne Boulevard, Toms River. Saturday, November 19 at 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Breakfast is $5. Auction tickets will be sold separately and will be called at 11 a.m. (47)

Items For Sale

ATTN Hunter's - Carry your deer easy on this carry on hitch. Packer steel grate. New. Used only once. Asking $55. 732-276-8389. (46)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL

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

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

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

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 Other Vintage Models - Also buying World War II Military items. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: mymilitarytoys@optonline.net. (31)

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)

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

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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

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

ISO Experienced Body Shop WelderTo work on old car. No schedule. Call Bart 201-249-2400. (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)

Day Substitutes Wanted for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School district: Couriers, Custodi al, School Nurses/RN, Secretarial, Teachers for Trade Skill Areas-Auto, Construction, Culinary, Electrical, Engineering/Machine Technology, Heavy Equipment Operator, HVAC, Plumbing, Welding or visit www.ocvts. org/employment. EOE. Please email resume to: tedgar@mail.ocvts.org or call 732-240-6414, ext. 3317. (46)

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)

Website Skills Required - Wordpress, Adobe, Maestro, Google Workspace. Key person needed. Great opportuni ty. Part time. Dependable, committed. Whiting area. 609-284-3142. (47)

Services

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITE -

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

Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (36)

Advertise in the main sections of Micromedia’s weekly news papers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Call 732-657-7344 ext. 206 for more information.

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

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)

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)

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)

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, 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)

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)

Services Services Services

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

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

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shiny - Call Lenny - Lenny's Mo bile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (39)

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)

around the JerSey Shore

Special Group: North Football Looks To Continue Winning Ways

39:4-56.6, at public sale/auction a Jeep Patriot , 2008 , VIN/ Hull Identification Number 1J8FT28W08D750324 on Nov. 16th , 9pm at 24 Harpers Ferry Road, Toms River, NJ 08753 which came into possession of Michael Smit through abandonment or failure of owner’s to claim same. The motor vehicle may be examined at 24 Harpers Ferry Road, Toms River, NJ 08753 .

TOMS RIVER – The closest game High School North football has played this season was its first, a 28-21 win at Washington Township. What followed was a hard-fought, 40-27 victory over Rumson Fair-Haven at Rutgers University that lived up to its moniker: Rumble on the Raritan. Since then, the Mariners dominated the regular season and Shore Conference schedule, defeating opponents by an astonishing total score of 383-19.

That doesn’t include the team’s NJSIAA South Jersey Group 5 win over Old Bridge, a 49-7 quarterfinal romp.

The team is undefeated at 10-0, the top seed in SJG5, and ranked no. 6 in the entire state.

Quarterback Micah Ford - who scored four touchdowns in the win against Old Bridge -

has more than 1,200 yards each passing and rushing, and as a junior has become one of the most sought-after college recruits.

That level of success is unique in its own right, and yet under the leadership of head coach Dave Oizerowitz the team has charac teristics - chemistry, personality, cohesiveness, whichever word fits - that demands attention and admiration.

“This is a special group of young men who deserve the success they have earned,” said HSN Principal Ed Keller, who can often be found on or near the sidelines, home or away.

“They genuinely like each other, and the family atmosphere they’ve instilled has helped them throughout the season’s first 10 weeks.”

around the JerSey Shore

The Most Familiar Avian Predator In North America

Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

What is an avian predator? A bird who hunts and kills live animals for food. Also referred to as raptors. One such raptor, the red-tailed hawk, can spot prey from a sky distance of 100 feet, diving at a speed of ‘at least’ 120 miles per hour. They are one of the fastest birds in the world. Their talons (nails) are long and sharp and are used to catch, secure, and kill their prey. Their beak used to dismember prey.

Natural nesting will occur in tall trees 35 – 90 feet above the ground. In more devel oped areas, they have been known to nest on building ledges. During baby season, the male is mostly responsible for carrying food to their nest with the female tearing the prey into small pieces and feeding their young. Approximately two months may pass from when incubation begins to when fledglings leave the nest. In their lifetime they will reproduce and lay eggs only a few times in their 10–12-year typical lifespan.

The red-tailed hawk is found in every state in the United States. Their bodies are built to hunt in open areas, like fields, pastures, grasslands, deserts and roadsides.

by Sara Zorns

They mostly hunt small mammals such as squirrels, rodents, and rabbits, but will occasionally eat birds as well as reptiles, particularly snakes. Depending on food supplies, they have been known to prey on small domestic animals such as small dogs. WARNING - that said, always leash your animal on a short leash. Leaving them alone in your yard can be dangerous. Daytime, nighttime, predators are always out there, and food is food.

Easily recognizable, adults can be iden tified by their reddish-brown tail. Their wingspan on average is 3 foot 7 inches and 4 foot 7 inches. They weigh up to 3 and a half pounds and stand just over 2 feet. Resident to New Jersey, they do not migrate and will remain in the same area year after year. New Jersey will, however, see Red-tailed Hawks from northern areas migrating through our state to southern locations.

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.

Illustration

around the JerSey Shore

OHI Laundry Day

─Photo courtesy OHI

photo oF the week

SEASIDE HEIGHTS - One of several control boxes in Seaside Heights that have gotten an artsy update. Ocean County Commissioners and Ocean County Engi neering approved Seaside Heights’ request in 2018 that allowed it to wrap the boxes

─Photo by Bob Vosseller (not painted) in the community. The traf fic lights and control boxes are owned by Ocean County. After the Borough’s graphic artists submitted design proposals six final selections were made and the boxes were wrapped in the fall of 2018.

Photographer Brian Lundy took this amazing shot in Asbury Park. Talk about a stunning shot. Wanna see your snaps featured in this space? Email photos@jersey shoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Astrological Forecast

ARIES (March 21-April 19): A partner or loved one might need to share something that may feel somewhat uncomfortable. Making changes to your banking or shifting your in vestments can have unexpected consequences in the week ahead.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Moving forward with the latest trends and making changes could actually set you back. In the upcoming week, tensions can erupt unless you are careful to toe the line. Learn from criticism; avoid confrontations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Timely sup port may not be available if your great ideas or enthusiasms fail to gain traction in the week ahead. Moving forward, make an effort to be more attuned to a situation and more sensitive to other people’s feelings.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): If you get stuck with the short straw, you might need to take on extra financial obligations. Exercise your per ceptiveness and rely upon an ambitious partner’s strength and will to succeed as the week unfolds.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): When ego gets involved, it can be hard to learn or grow. Set pride aside and step up to become your best self. You can handle weighty obligations by being more astute and relentless about achiev ing your objectives.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You could experience consequences if you ignore your duties or responsibilities in the week to come. Be careful that you don’t give offense and recognize that loved ones could be sensitive to imagined challenges.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): Perfection is a mirage that perpetually remains in the dis tance. In the week to come you can add some finishing touches to a project, but it is best not to begin anything new. Be budget-conscious and conserve your resources.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : If you become triggered when someone seems dis approving or controlling, it’s time to heal the old trigger point.. Maintain a low profile, avoid disagreements, and do not launch important plans in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Some one’s passive-aggressive tendencies can create a rift in the week ahead. Workplace disruptions and dysfunctions might add to your worries. Remain calm, be accountable, and learn from mistakes.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Try to remain in your center and be wise, even if you feel backed into a corner financially by cir cumstances outside your control. More options should arrive soon. Don’t be afraid to hold out for better terms next week

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Some chap ters of your life should remain unpublished, avoid oversharing, sharing with the wrong people or calling attention to highly private matters. In the week ahead follow the rules, remain efficient and meet all deadlines.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): Someone might play too rough when they toy with your affections in the week ahead. Avoid arguments and hurt feelings by trying to be more sensitive. Loved ones aren’t toys to put aside when you are tired of playing.

IF YOU OVERINDULGED THIS HALLOWEEN, THIS SALAD IS THE PERFECT CANDY DETOX

By America’s Test Kitchen

KALE SALAD WITH MAPLE-BALSAMIC DRESSING

Serves 4

8 ounces curly kale

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard or mayonnaise

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 apple, cored and chopped

1/4 cup sliced almonds

1. TEAR: Tear kale leaves from

stems and discard stems. Tear kale into small bite-size pieces.

2. MASSAGE: Place kale pieces in a bowl. Squeeze and mas sage kale until leaves soften and turn dark green, 1 to 2 minutes.

3. SHAKE: In a small jar, com bine oil, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard and salt. Cover jar tightly with lid and shake un til mixture is well combined, about 30 seconds.

4. DRESS: Add apple, almonds and dressing to bowl with kale. Use tongs to toss salad until kale is well coated with dressing.

For the week of nov 12 - nov 18

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

By Jeraldine Saunders

(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.