2022-11-19 - The Southern Ocean Times

OCEAN

Did You Walk Right Past History Today?

By Mark Bator

JERSEY SHORE New Jersey

has often been referred to as the “Crossroads of the Revolution,” and with good reason.

Besides being the location for several seminal battles of

the extended campaign that brought independence to the original 13 Colonies, numerous other points of interest dot the landscape of New Jersey that mark significant events or once played key roles during the days

of the Founding Fathers.

To be certain, many people know about Washington’s Headquarters in Morris County, or the site of the historic Battle of Trenton. But local sites

OCC Salutes Veterans During Annual Ceremony

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY –

The sacrifices – as well as the contributions – of those who served were remembered at a Veterans Day celebration held at Ocean County College.

OCC President Dr. John H. Larson opened the “Salute To Veterans” by explaining the history of the holiday:

Referendum To Keep 8 Teachers Narrowly Passes

By Stephanie Faughnan

WARETOWN – Though the vote tallies are still unofficial, the ballot measure increasing the school district’s tax levy by $840,000 appears to have passed.

The referendum received a 51.01 percent voter approval rating among the 4,074 votes cast. There were 48.99 percent of voters against additional school funding. The most recent unofficial numbers released by the Ocean County Clerk’s office show a mere 82 votes made the difference. The tallies become official after the clerk certifies them, which usually takes a couple of weeks after election day.

“This is not something that is going to happen every year,” reassured Dr. Christopher Lommerin, Superintendent of Schools. “I believe we are set for another five years.”

(Teachers - See Page 11)

Most Incumbents Win In Election

LACEY – GOP incumbents will retain their seats on the Township Committee and new and old faces will serve on the Board of Education,

all wars and the name was changed to Veterans Day.

“We gather today as we do each year here at Ocean County College to recognize those heroes who have served and are currently serving this country proudly, selflessly at home and around the world.

Six candidates ran for three seats on the panel this year. Two incumbent Republicans, two Democrats, an independent and a Green Party challenger sought full three-year terms while a one-year term seat was also on the ballot.

“the holiday we observe each year on November 11, originally known as Armistice Day was established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower called for an expansion to the annual celebration to encompass veterans of (Veterans - See Page 5) (Incumbents - See Page 10)

For the three-year seats, the unofficial results had Republican incumbent Steven Kennis receiving 7,049 votes and fellow GOP incumbent Peter Curatolo receiving 6,823.

Kennis has lived in the township for 50 years and is a builder/developer. “As a longtime resident and a local businessman, I will continue to make Lacey a desirable place to

To honor those who

–Photo by Chris Lundy

The Stafford Old Methodist Church was drafted into being a hospital during the Revolutionary War.

(History - See Page 4)

By Bob Vosseller

–Photo by Bob Vosseller U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Raffi R. “Stambo” Stambultsyan, of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst speaks during the annual Ocean County College Veterans ceremony.

History:

Continued From Page 1

abound in both Monmouth and Ocean counties, and there are spots that the average citizen passes nearly every day without appreciating their significance.

While a number of local communities may not have played host to events in Colonial Times, at the very least, the residents in the greater Ocean and Monmouth areas contributed to the effort to break free from England in other ways. While some joined the militia directly, many men and women contributed to the war effort by growing food or working in make-shift hospitals. But there are locations here that the public walk by or drive past on a regular basis that hold special significance in American history.

“The most noteworthy Revolutionary War historic site in the Monmouth and Ocean County area is the Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan,” says author Al Frazza. “It is the location of an important battle that took place on June 28, 1778, which was a brutally hot summer day.”

His book, “State of Revolution: My Seven-and-a-Half-Year Journey Through Revolutionary War New Jersey” points out many of the areas of historical significance within the Garden State.

Now known for its hiking trails and picnic facilities, the sprawling park was the site of one of the major conflicts of the Revolutionary War, namely, the Battle of Monmouth. Here, General Washington led his troops in a defeat of the British, with notable indi-

viduals by his side, such as officer Richard Howell (for whom the township is named), who later became the third governor of New Jersey. The visitor center onsite displays period clothing and even has an interactive site map that narrates the key moments of the battle.

Frazza also operates the website revolutionarywarnewjersey.com that allows users to fi nd points of interest near them, regardless of where they reside in the Garden State.

“New Jersey played a vital role in the Revolutionary War, and there are still many physical markers of the war to be visited and explored,” explains Frazza. “There is a wide range of historic sites, for every interest level.”

Just in Monmouth and Ocean Counties alone, the website highlights 48 sites across 21 towns for locals to visit and enjoy.

“In addition to the Monmouth Battlefield State Park, there are many other historic Revolutionary War locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties,” says Frazza. “There are historic houses to visit, as well as monuments and cemeteries with the graves of Revolutionary War soldiers. There is something for everyone, whatever your interest level or the amount of time you have to spend.”

Not surprisingly, many of the sites in Monmouth County are closely tied to the Battle of Monmouth, such as the Old Tennent Church and Cemetery in Manalapan. Here, visitors can walk the grounds where a building that served as a hospital may be seen, while numerous graves of Revolutionary War soldiers may be viewed.

In nearby Englishtown, residents have likely walked past two structures in town that have historical significance. One is the Moses Laird House, which today is a private residence. However, as Frazza’s website indicates, the home was the place where George Washington stayed shortly after the Battle of Monmouth. Just a short walk from the Laird House is the Village Inn. Here, prior to the Battle of Monmouth, strategies were worked out by General Charles Lee for the Colonial Army.

Just a short drive from Englishtown, Freehold also holds places of interest for the history buff, as well.

Following his victory in the Dacian Wars, the Roman Emperor Trajan constructed a large column that memorialized the victory and featured carvings that glorified the campaigns of his soldiers. While not constructed by Washington, a similar edifice exists in Freehold.

Standing near the current Monmouth County Courthouse, the monument dates back to the late 1800s, and commemorates the Colonists’ victory on the Monmouth battlefield. The monument features a statue at its apex that symbolizes victory and features several reliefs that memorialize key moments in the fight for independence.

Right on Main Street in Freehold is Columbia Triumphant Park, which features a large bust sculpture of the figure that sits atop the Monmouth Battle Monument.

The historic site of the old Monmouth Court House is close by, where the Hall of Records now stands. Like many larger buildings during that time period, it also

saw use as a hospital during the Revolutionary War. In addition to these locations, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on Throckmorton Street is touted as “[t]he oldest building in continuous use in downtown Freehold” as it dates back to 1771.

But historic locations abound in Ocean County, as well. While towns such as Barnegat, Little Egg Harbor and Tuckerton have sites associated with Revolutionary times, Toms River is well known for being steeped in history.

Among the areas identified by Frazza include Joshua Huddy Park. The site commemorates the raid on Toms River by British sympathizers and loyalists. During the battle, Huddy was captured, and Toms River was razed by fi re.

Visitors to Toms River can get a glimpse of the type of armaments used during the period by viewing an actual Revolutionary War cannon outside the Ocean County Courthouse.

Also close by is the Old Methodist Cemetery, which sits at the corner of the intersection of Hooper Avenue and Washington Street. Relatively small and unassuming, the site is the fi nal resting place for several soldiers that fought in the Revolutionary War.

“I believe that when we can understand that history happened right in our own towns, where we live and walk and drive, it helps us make a deeper connection to the past,” says Frazza regarding the many areas of historic value in New Jersey. “Visiting the places where the history occurred is a powerful way to make that connection.”

Continued From Page 1

have vowed to protect our values and our democracy and whose courage and commitment enables all of us to live freely,” Dr. Larson added.

“We also pause to recognize the heavy price that so many have paid in the course of that service and to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation’s honor. President Ronald Reagan once said, ‘we remember those who were called up to give all a person can give and we remember those who are prepared to make that sacrifice if it were demanded of them in the line of duty’,” he added.

Larson said, “most of all we remember the gallantry with which all of them enabled their nation as they became champions of our noble cause. Let us reflect upon those words and take them closely to heart.” He acknowledged all student and employee veterans and active military.

Toms River Council President Kevin Geoghegan remarked, “lets also take a moment to acknowledge those families of service members and veterans who

shouldered the weight of war and the burden and sacrifice. To the mothers, fathers, spouses and children of our military men and women - thank you.

“I personally have never worn the uniform, been to war, been wounded or scarred in battle. I’ve never put on combat boots, shot at an enemy or even held a dying friend. I have no idea what war is like. I have no idea what any of you have experienced. Your fear, your bravery, your suffering, and your survival. I am simply a grateful American,” Geoghegan added.

The guest speaker was U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Raffi R. “Stambo” Stambultsyan, of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Larson reviewed his record of service. “He enlisted in the Air Force in 2009 and he has accomplished a great deal. He attended training at Lackland Air Force Base to become a member of security forces. During his time with the Desert Lightning Team, he honed his combat skills with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of the A-10 Warthogs air fleet.”

Stambultsyan served in various capacities across the spectrum of security

force operations from physical security to law enforcement and administration. He continued his education while serving earning an associate’s degree in criminal justice from the community college of the Air Force.

He also received a Bachelor of Sciences degree in criminal justice and is currently a PHD candidate at Liberty University. He holds professional certifications in diversity and inclusion from Cornell University.

Larson also said the speaker received various awards including the Air Force Commendation medal, Afghanistan Campaign medal with Bronze Star and is a recipient of the National Law Enforcement medal from the Sons of the American Revolution.

Stambultsyan said during his speech, “the one question we are all asked is what do you want to be when you grow up? In 2009, I was a young 19-year-old and I thought I had it all figured out. I was going to put college on hold and join the military.

“I thought exactly what I was going to say when the recruiter asked me what do you want to be? I was prepared. I was going to answer, an American Airman but when the time came, he asked a very different

question, and I had no idea how to answer it,” Stambultsyan added.

“The one question only the military will ask of you, ‘what do you want to contribute?’ That was the only question that truly mattered,” he added. He noted that many in the military were able to help him with what he wanted to be, to further his education, to travel. “You have to be careful what you ask for. I said, I want to fi nd love, boom I’m married to my wife of 12 years who is also a veteran and we have two little boys.

“The question still remained, what do I want to contribute, remembering the brave men in women of our history. What did veterans before me contribute? The answer is everything. They put their lives on hold and contributed everything they were asked to do and so much more,” he added.

Members of the Toms River American Legion Post 129 Color Guard were part of the ceremony as well as the OCC Concert Band who performed the National Anthem and a Salute to the Armed Forces. The Legion Post’s Rifle Squad provided a salute. The ceremony concluded with Ross Eadie of the OCC Concert Band performing Taps.

Community Health Survey

STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to encourage all of our residents to participate in our new Community Health Survey.

As part of the 2022-2023 Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, Mayor Myhre and Township

Council are asking for feedback directly from Stafford Township residents in order to develop and implement healthy actions and initiatives that best accommodate the specific needs of our community.

The survey can be accessed through the

link below as well as on the Township of Stafford’s website homepage, staffordnj.gov. A paper copy of the survey can be picked up in the Mayor’s Office or the Bay Avenue Community Center. All completed paper surveys should be submitted to Rachel

Giolitto in the Mayor’s Office.

All data and responses are anonymous. The deadline for submitting your completed survey is November 30. Survey can be found directly at tinyurl.com/Stafford TwpCommunitySurvey.

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

Congressman: Coast Guard’s Low Recruitment Numbers Made Worse By Vaccine Requirement

From

The Desk

Of Congressman Jefferson Van Drew

WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Jefferson Van Drew (R-2 nd ) issued the following statement slamming the Biden Administration for its authoritarian vaccine mandates on our military resulting in one of the worst years for Coast Guard

recruitment. His statement comes after the U.S. Coast Guard announced that they will be offering up to $50,000 in signing bonuses as an attempt to recruit and retain personnel.

“President Biden told all of America that the pandemic is over. Yet, our national security is in danger because of his extension of these authoritarian vaccine mandates,” said Congressman Van Drew. “The United States military is faced with one of the most difficult recruiting years in decades,

exacerbated by these COVID-19 vaccine mandates. For years, I have zealously advocated for Americans to exercise medical freedom over their health choices. Not only do these mandates not follow the science, but it is putting our military readiness at risk. We have already seen thousands of servicemembers get discharged based on their decision to not receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and now the Coast Guard is forced to deal with a recruiting crisis. President Biden needs to get off his high-horse, reverse these unconstitutional mandates on our military, and reinstate every servicemember who

was discharged.”

Congressman Van Drew has been an outspoken proponent for the United States military personnel to maintain their personal choice on whether or not they would receive the COVID-19 vaccine. He is an original cosponsor of a bill that would prohibit servicemembers from being discharged based solely on the refusal to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

He also sent a letter to the Secretary of Defense urging the reversal of the mandate, pointing to the fact that our Armed Forces is dealing with a recruitment and retention crisis.

Unemployment Insurance System To Be More E cient

speed the review process for benefits.”

Primary sponsors of the bill include Senators Fred Madden Jr. and Joseph Lagana, and Assemblymembers Paul Moriarty, Shama Haider, and Joe Danielsen.

from enduring excessive fi nancial hardships during already difficult times,” said Assemblymembers Paul Moriarty, Shama Haider, and Joe Danielsen, sponsors of the legislation.

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (S2357) which makes certain changes to the administration of the State’s unemployment insurance (“UI”) system to increase the system’s efficiency and expedite timely benefits payments. The Legislature concurred with the Governor’s conditional veto of an earlier version of the legislation, as the Governor had recommended changes necessary to ensure compliance with federal law.

“As we work to enhance the UI system, we must ensure that the process is timely and transparent from start to fi nish,” said Governor Murphy. “The revisions sent back to the Legislature ensure compliance with federal law and I commend the bill’s sponsors for their dedication to improving our State’s UI system. Every eligible recipient of unemployment benefits deserves to receive assistance as expeditiously and efficiently as possible.”

“We distributed $37 billion to more than 2 million workers during the pandemic, but we never want to see even one resident struggle to pay their bills or fi nd a new job,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. “That’s why we are so proud to be partnering with the US Department of Labor to develop a new, modern, agile unemployment system that is accessible, equitable and designed to shorten the time it takes for eligible workers to receive benefits. We are grateful to our legislative partners for continuing to advocate for their constituents and our claimants, and for giving us more tools to

“This law is a response to the processing delays and wait times seen during a critical time of high unemployment during the coronavirus crisis. It will provide much needed relief to claimants by expediting the determination and appeals process and by providing more options for claimants to speak directly with department staff to resolve issues,” said Senator Fred Madden, the Chairman of the Senate Labor Committee. “The unemployment compensation system is meant to help people at a difficult time in their lives and this reform will help the program live up to its purpose.”

“Certainly these last few pandemic years have been difficult for people and placed a stress on government agencies. Yet we must remember delays in processing unemployment benefits have real-world consequences. These delays might be the difference on whether families can pay their monthly bills or put food on the table,” said Senator Joe Lagana. “This law will make sure all eligible individuals are being served and receiving benefits they’ve earned in a timely manner, so they in turn might stave off any unnecessary fi nancial burdens.”

“We cannot allow processing delays to prevent individuals from receiving the unemployment benefi ts they are owed, especially when these benefits could mean the difference between paying their bills or feeding their families. This law will ensure New Jersey residents are able to claim the unemployment benefits they are eligible for without delay, preventing families

The recommendations outlined in the conditional veto include revisions to ensure that benefits are paid in conformity with federal law. These revisions authorize the Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s Division of Unemployment and Temporary Disability Insurance to permit an employer to communicate information with the Division by methods other than electronic communication in those limited circumstances where an employer

has demonstrated an inability to communicate electronically. The recommended changes also clarify that overpayments paid under the federal CARES Act may only be waived if the Division determines that both the overpayment was not the fault of the claimant and repayment would be contrary to equity and good conscience.

The revisions also specify that pursuant to federal law and regulations, benefits may not be paid to a claimant for an overturned period of disqualification for any week during which the claimant has failed to provide to the division a weekly certification evidencing the claimant’s eligibility for benefits.

HELP YOUR EYES KEEP UP WITH THE TIMES

Technology moves fast, much faster than our bodies can adjust to, which is why our eyes sometimes have a hard time staring at all the screens that have become such a time-consuming portion of our everyday lives. The strain can cause our vision to become blurry and our eyes to become red and irritated. Unlike regular eyeglasses, computer glasses are designed to solve the problems of abundant screen time referred to as computer vision syndrome (CVS). If you already need prescription lenses you may want the option of getting bifocals instead of going back and forth between two different pairs of glasses. Computer glasses can be customized to suit your personal requirements.

Blue light is high-energy light emitted by screens and its cumulative effect can have negative impacts on your health. Studies show prolong exposure to blue light may be linked to eye strain, increased risk of macular degeneration, and sleep cycle disruption. To schedule a comprehensive eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Computer glasses should include an anti-reflective coating and can be improved even more by using photo-chromatic lenses that protect eyes from the harmful effects of blue light.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622 BRICK (732) 477-6981 BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020 www.oceancountyeye.com

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

Wells Mills Nature Center Is Now Open

WARETOWN – From the numerous environmental and historical displays throughout the three-story building to the simulated fi re observation tower on the top floor, the newly renovated Wells Mills County Park Nature Center offers a host of information and programs to visitors.

Following months of work, officials from Ocean County, Ocean Township, the state Forest Fire Services and staff from the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation cut a ceremonial red ribbon marking the completion of renovations and reopening the facility to the public.

“We are so pleased to be here today inviting back the public to this newly renovated building to view our new displays, attend our nature programs and meet with park staff to learn more about Wells Mills County Park,” said Ocean County Commissioner

Virginia E. Haines, Chairwoman of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation.

The extensive improvements to the nature center will improve the park experience and will serve residents, visitors and staff for years to come. The renovations to the 2,873 square foot building that overlooks Wells Mills Lake included extensive improvements to the observation deck including enclosing it. A second-floor addition for a conference room above an open exhibit space was constructed. All new heating, ventilation and air conditioning was installed along with a new elevator. Improvements were made to the bathrooms, flooring, and lighting. The nature center was constructed in 1989. The renovations were suggested as part of a county-wide structure assessment.

Barnegat High School Marching Band And Color Guard Make History

BARNEGAT – History was made on November 5 for the Barnegat High School Marching Band and Color Guard program.

The Tournament of Bands Region 7 and State Championship Band and Guard were awarded the score of 96.69 in the Tournament of Bands Group 2 A Class at the Atlantic Coast Championships at Hershey Stadium,

Hershey, PA. This is the highest score ever achieved by a high school band and guard in the Group 2 A Class. Barnegat’s ACC score breaks the previous record from 2012 of 96.6 held by Pennsauken High School.

The band and guard also received recognition for highest visual, percussion, music and auxiliary scores.

Special Children’s Christmas Party

FORKED RIVER – You are invited to attend the Special Children’s Christmas Party on December 10 from 12 to 3 p.m. Lunch will be served. Activities will include face painting, crafts and Christmas hats or stockings. Every child will receive a present!

Pre-registration is required no later than December 5. For more information contact Janet at 732-771-5557 or Deborah at 732522-4794.

Lacey Elks #2518 located at 900 Beach Boulevard, Forked River.

Photo courtesy Ocean County Parks

STAFFORD – Stafford PBA Local 297 and Stafford Recreation’s Holiday Toy Drive now through December 23.

How to help: We’re looking for new, unwrapped gifts for boys and girls ranging from newborn to age 18. Gifts for children of all ages are greatly appreciated as need knows no age limits!

Toys & other age-appropriate items such as: craft sets, coats & winter accessories, movie tickets, gift cards & certificates. Donations can be dropped off at: Bay Avenue Community Center 775 East Bay Ave, Manahawkin, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

BARNEGAT – Jeff ’s Camp, a veteran’s nonprofit, will team up with Jersey Shore Car Shows and Jerzey Hotwheelz Motor Club for a car cruise and Christmas Tree lighting on December 2. The event will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Jeff ’s Camp site, 308 Route 72 in Barnegat.

The event is free to attend, but the cost to enjoy food and s’mores is $15. The event will feature the car show, music, a visit from Santa and the tree lighting festivities.

Holiday Toy Drive anksgiving Resource Guide

STAFFORD – Happy Thanksgiving from Stafford Township Recreation! Listed is a Resource Guide for families in need: Ocean Community Church Food Pantry – 1492 Route 72 W. Manahawkin, 609-597-5151.

Feed Ocean County Thanksgiving Food

Pine Street Recreation Building 25 Pine Street, Manahawkin, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Stafford Township Municipal Building 260 East Bay Ave, Manahawkin, anytime, day or night.

In addition, look for Stafford Township Holiday Toy Drive collection boxes at local businesses in town!

Make checks payable to the Stafford Township PBA 297 Toy Drive. For more information, contact: Jen McBrien at 609597-100 ext. 8573, jmcbrienestaffordnj.gov; or Debbie Budesa at 609-597-1000 ext. 8583; dbudesa@staffordnj.gov.

Veterans Nonpro t To Host Christmas Tree Lighting And Car Cruise Gobble Wobble 5K And 1 Mile Fun Run

STAFFORD – Gobble Wobble 5K And 1 Mile Fun Run will be on November 24.

Starts at 8a.m.; 8 a.m. Wee Wobble; 8:15

The car cruise is open to all years, makes and models of cars, trucks and motorcycles. Proceeds from the event will benefit Jeff ’s Camp, a nonprofit whose mission is to build “a home for heroes” on Route 72, to include housing and other supports for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness, mental health issues and poverty.

To sign up a vehicle in the event, visit jerseyshorecarshows.com. For more information, visit jeffscamp.com.

Drive – 732-773-8272, Email: feedoceancountynj@gmail.com.

Fulfill - The Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – 732-918-2600, fulfillnj. org

If you would like to donate to these organizations, contact them directly.

a.m. 1 Mile; 8:30 p.m. 5K Start. Location: 260 East Bay Avenue Manahawkin. Online Registration: raceforum.com/gobble.

We are your local Reverse Mortgage Specialists and are happy to discuss the benefits and availability of a reverse mortgage with you, at convenience. Call the name you can trust for a FREE in-person consultation!

James P. Anzano, President Glendenning Mortgage Corporation Office: 732-240-7227 • Cell: 908-330-1446 JAnzano@Glendenning.com • 81 E Water St, Toms River, NJ 08753 NMLS ID: 209792 • WWW.GLENDENNING.COM 800-354-8286

Incumbents

:

Continued From Page 1 live and to maintain the quality of life our residents have come to expect.”

Curatolo has lived in Lacey for 22 years and is the Coordinator of Community Health Services at the Ocean County Health Department. He told The Southern Ocean Times, “I’m an advocate for the people. I know how to navigate bureaucracies to get the best possible outcome for our residents and I have done this successfully for nine years on Committee and 25 years in government.”

They were challenged by Democrats Edward Kownacki and Erik Mazur who received 2,342 and 2,423 votes respectively. Independent candidate and former Board of Education member Regina C. Discenza received 826 votes and Green Party member Barry Bendar received 593.

Incumbent Republican Committeewoman Peggy Sue Juliano, who was appointed earlier this year to fill the seat of her late husband, Nicholas Juliano won the unexpired term having received 7,509 votes. She was challenged by Democrat Shawn Judson who received 2,637 votes.

Juliano is employed by the Lacey Township School District. “I have been there for 12 years and before that I owned and operated our Auto Parts Store with my husband for 30 years.”

She said she ran to “finish some of the work that Nick started but now I realize it is my job to keep this town with my fellow committee members moving forward. Our job is to secure this town for the next generation.”

School Board

In the township’s Board of Education race, there were slogans of “Commitment with Integrity,” “Students Priorities First” and “For the Kids,” since candidates aren’t allowed to use political parties in their campaigning. There were three, three-yearterms available.

Candidate Jack Conaty was the top vote getter in unofficial results and received 4,974 votes. Conaty has been a volunteer fi refighter in Lacey for over 25 years and currently serves as Chief of Lanoka Harbor

Volunteer Fire Company.

“Volunteering my time for the betterment of my community was ingrained in me from a very early age. Some of the most important things I’ve learned in all that time is the importance of communication and transparency. You must be able to communicate with your reports, your supervisors and all stakeholders to be able to move forward together.”

Longtime incumbent Linda A. Downing received 4,410 votes. She chose to run again to “continue the work in progress. My role as a board member is not one of ridiculing or demeaning others, but rather to try and make a difference for the children of Lacey Township.

“First and most importantly, we need to assist with the academic and emotional recovery from the pandemic and expedite the progress to ‘normalcy’ – getting back to where the children should be. Additionally important is to ensure our students come to a safe and secure place each and every day where they have the enthusiasm to learn and grow,” Downing said.

Cheryl Beuschel-Armato received 4,136. “I was motivated to run for the Board of Education for several reasons. While sitting at a BOE meeting this year, public comments got a bit heated. One of the current BOE members said numerous times to all the members of the community in attendance ‘if you think you can do a better job than put your name on the ballot.’

“Currently, we have only one parent on the board with school age children. Parents with children in the district are needed so they can be involved in implementing change in policies, curriculum and fi nance that will have a positive impact on their children as well as current and future Lacey students,” she added.

Incumbent Edward Scanlon received 4,040 votes while candidate Melody Pryor received 3,421 votes. These were not enough to secure a seat.

The vote totals were referred to as “unofficial” because it takes a couple weeks after election day for the county clerk’s office to certify the results.

1

School districts are capped at two percent annual tax increases because of a state law and are required to ask voters for any amounts in excess. In this case, the $840,000 represents the cost of keeping eight classroom teachers on staff and maintaining classroom sizes the same.

Ocean Township School District began experiencing budgetary issues a few years ago when the State of New Jersey changed its formula for school aid. The reduction amounts to $4.7 million overall, with further decreases in the next two years.

“We’ve cut everything out of the budget we could,” Lommerin said. “We’re down to salary, benefits, supplies, facilities and operating costs.”

According to Lommerin, programs were cut due to the reduction in funding. However, the district will remain in a position to deliver educational services, and everything required by law.

Some opponents of increasing school taxes claim the local school district employs too many administrators. Lommerin, who plans to retire at the end of this school year, recalled what it was like when he started in 2009.

“We had a special education director and a curriculum director,” shared Lommerin. “And the principals in each of the schools.”

Although he says it’s not his decision to make, Lommerin plans to recommend that the board name one of the principals to take on his job. He ends his career with Ocean Township Schools with a salary of $162,000.

Board of Education President Dr. Shawn Denning said the district has not yet decided whether they would create a dual role for one of the principals or consider sharing a superintendent with another district.

The referendum question may well have been one of the hottest issues in Southern Ocean County. School officials decided the best way to get voters out – was to educate them.

Lommerin and Steve Terhune, Business Administrator teamed up with board members to present voters with a clear understanding of the ballot measure. They did six or seven question and answer sessions in various settings in town hall fashion.

Parents took up the cause themselves and held rallies to encourage voters to support the schools.

Two districts located in the Greenbriar-Oceanaire retirement community showed the most opposition to the referendum, with nearly 64 percent voting against it.

An anonymous flyer distributed within the gated community contained information that Denning said was inaccurate. The school district’s preschool program for example, is entirely funded by the state and classroom sizes set by state guidelines.

The average residential taxpayer can expect an increase that most likely won’t exceed $200 annually according to Denning. This may be adjusted down since it has been set at a dollar amount to be raised rather than a tax rate.

“If there are more people to pay the amount we want to raise,” said Denning. “That’s when the tax rate goes down with more contributions.”

Beach Haven Government Meetings

BEACH HAVEN – The Borough of Beach Haven’s commission meets the second Monday of the month at 420 Pelham Avenue at

7 p.m. For additional information call 609492-0111, visit beachhaven-nj.gov, or email beachhavenborough@beachhaven-nj.gov.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chris Lommerin worked to educate the public on the need for the tax levy.

Faces Of e Black Poster Project: Honoring ose Lost To Overdoses

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – Over 500 posters were on display at Brick Memorial High school, featuring photos of people who lost their lives to addiction.

The display works as a silent memorial, showing each person’s story along with their photo. Despite these individuals being from all over the country, they all shared one thing in common.

The Black Poster Project was created by Dee Gillen, who lost her son Scott to a heroin/ fentanyl overdose in 2015. While preparing for an overdose awareness event in 2019, Dee said she wanted to have posters of lost loved ones displayed as she felt it would be an impactful visual.

“I started the project three years ago with about 50 posters and it’s grown by word of mouth to the point where we decided to make it a project, make it something we can travel around with,” Dee said. “I was a part of an alumni in recovery and a parent program and when the community meetings would go to different towns, we’d bring the posters so that people could look at them prior to the meetings starting.”

Dee explained how after COVID hit, her along with colleague Glynis Burke came up with the idea of doing the traveling displays and opening it up to the public for free. Today, the Black Poster Project has grown to 521 posters.

“The thing that’s really special about what we do, working with alumni in recovery, is there are either people in recovery or grieving families working side by side with people in

recovering and it’s such an unusual connection,” Dee said. “You don’t see that a lot. You either see grief groups or recovery groups. So, this event is a perfect example.

“For people like us who have lost our child after so many years of rehab and trying to save them, and they’re gone now; what happens next? Now what do we do? The people in recovery, they embrace people who have gone through it, who don’t have their loved one anymore. It’s a really unique combination and we’re really grateful to be a part of that,” Dee added.

“Being a part of alumni in recovery also brings hope to us and purpose to it. Purpose in that ‘what now? What do we do?’ Our child’s death is not in vain. How do you make sense of 500 kids, sons and daughters, parents, all from families. How do you make sense of that? In all of this it’s healing for us,” Glynis said.

Along with the 500 plus posters on display, there were two distinctive posters at this year’s event in Brick Township that stood apart from the rest.

Next to Kennedy Marie Clifford’s poster were six standing mirrors decorated with different words of affirmations. Kennedy committed suicide in 2014 and to honor her, her sister and best friends created the “Amazing Campaign.” They made shirts with “amazing” spelt backwards on it. So, when you looked in the mirror you see how amazing you are.

“The campaign was recently closed and they made a donation to the Black Poster Project. So, I display her poster to keep her memory

alive,” Dee said.

The second unique display was in honor of James Evans, who died in 2020 from an addiction to medication after being shot and in the hospital for a month. Next to his poster stands separate posters with hundreds of caricatures drawn on them.

“These are James’ mom drawings, that’s her way of therapy for the loss of her son. She draws those intricate people; people that have lost their children or beloveds and they’ll send her a picture and she’ll draw a character and she does that for every holiday. She gave me her Halloween one and then I asked her if she would draw one for the black poster project. That board shows everyone in the display, and

she plans to add more people in,” Dee said. This is the third year the Black Poster Project has been on display in Brick Township, with the project continuing to travel all throughout the state. The Brick Township Police Department was present with an unused medication drop box, free Narcan training, along with the Brick Municipal Anti-Drug Coalition and other vendors.

“It’s not for everyone. It’s extremely heavy work and it’s difficult for a lot of people to decide to participate. It’s all very respectful the way we handle it,” Dee said.

To learn more about the Black Poster Project or to make a donation, visit theblackposter project.com.

–Photo by Alyssa Riccardi

The Black Poster Project started in 2019 and has grown to 521 posters.

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

5 Reasons To Visit Us is

Ear Cleaning Cold weather can harden earwax, causing discomfort and muffled hearing. Come visit us and we will use Otoscopy to determine if you have impacted wax and what the next steps are to remove it. As a general rule, if you’re already wearing hearing aids, this alone will increase the production of ear wax which can in turn effect the performance of the hearing instruments.

Hearing Aid Tune-Ups and Extra Batteries Winter is a tough season for your hearing aids. Low temperatures affect the functionality of nearly all personal electronics and drain batteries quickly. Changes in temperature create condensation, which can cause problems. Bring your aids in for a tune-up and inspection. We can ensure they are in great shape and send you home with an optional dehumidifier to store them in, along with extra batteries. If your currently wearing rechargeable hearing aid battery systems, in many cases we can check the integrity of the rechargeable battery. New Tech Once your devices are more than four years old, we’ll need to make sure they’re still meeting your needs. From Bluetooth to telehealth compatibility, we can offer the perfect option to customize your hearing experience and filter out the annoying background noise that comes with busy shopping centers and family gatherings. If you’re due for an upgrade,

Winter

we can fit you with the latest model to keep you hearing everything you want and nothing you don’t. Many of the new hearing aid technologies utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and/or deep neural networking to maximize your ability to hearing particularly in noisy places.

Warranty Expiration Depending on when you purchased your hearing aids, your warranty may be expiring soon. We can help you maximize and protect your investment by cleaning, checking, and performing selected repairs while the devices remain under warranty. Please keep in mind that if your hearing instruments break down and are “out of warranty” the typical repair cost is $350-$400.00.

Ear Infections - Flu and cold season is upon us! Any upper respiratory virus has the potential to cause a middle ear infection, which can lead to hearing loss if left untreated. If you come down with an earache, ear pain, and/or your ears feel “blocked”, please make an appointment with us so we can help determine the root cause of these issues.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to answer your questions about hearing health. His offices are located in Toms River, Manahawkin, and Whiting and can be reached by calling 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com.

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

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

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

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

6 Critical Reasons You Need Zinc

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Zinc is a trace element, meaning we only require small amounts to reap the benefits it has to offer. Actually, it is the second-most abundant trace mineral in the human body after iron which is the most abundant!

People can run out of zinc easily especially if their diet is vegetarian or vegan. Other causes are sickle cell anemia, gastric surgery, alcoholism, Celiac or Crohn’s disease.

Zinc is necessary, albeit in smaller “trace” quantities, because it assists in about 300 important metabolic pathways, and those affect your health from head to toe!

I have a longer article and more studies posted on my website. In the meantime, here are some studies regarding zinc:

1. Immunity. There are numerous trials on zinc and its role in immunity, especially innate immunity which is our first line of defense. In one intriguing study from 2019, published in the journal, Clinical Infectious Diseases, researchers concluded, “Our results showed that, in COVID-19 patients, oral zinc can decrease 30-day death, ICU admission rate and can shorten symptom duration.”

2. Asthma and Allergies. In September 2022, a paper was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The researchers found that children were more susceptible to allergies and asthmatic disease if they did not have adequate amounts of zinc.

3. Skincare. According to a meta-analysis published in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment Aug 2022), zinc supplementation has a lot of benefits and found a supporting role for zinc in many skin-related disorders. For example, it appears to help with Leishmaniasis,

warts, and inflammatory skin conditions like acne and rosacea.

4. Bones and Teeth. It’s well known that zinc works in tandem with other bone-loving minerals like strontium, boron, calcium, and vitamin D. We know that low zinc correlates to reduced bone density.

The recommended doses for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis are somewhere between 15mg to 30mg of zinc daily.

5. Prostate Cancer. Most doctors agree that zinc is useful to reproductive function. Low zinc correlates to higher rates of miscarriage and low sperm count. Studies suggest zinc may inhibit certain prostate cancer cell lines and slow metastasis. We know that tissue levels of zinc are consistently reduced in specimens taken from these patients.

6. Thyroid Function. It’s well known that a zinc deficiency contributes to more symptoms of thyroid illness. Low zinc will lead to the development of hypothyroidism and will deplete zinc faster. There’s more about healing thyroid conditions in my best-selling book sold on Amazon, Thyroid Healthy: Lose Weight, Look Beautiful and Live the Life You Imagine.

Symptoms of zinc deficiency are a lack of taste or smell, hair loss, low appetite, fatigue, auditory loss, infertility, low libido, and easier bone fractures.

We can obtain adequate amounts of this element through our diet, especially foods such as shellfish, poultry, red meat and whole grains. Some fruits are naturally rich in zinc and these include guava, cantaloupe, peaches and pomegranates. Chelated zinc supplements are great because they are bound to a natural amino acid, so stomach complaints are lessened.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Local Students Make Honor Roll At Oregon State University

NEW JERSEY – Names of students who have made the Scholastic Honor Roll Summer 2022 have been announced by Oregon State University.

A total of 3,162 students earned a B-plus (3.5) or better to make the listing. To be on the Honor Roll, students must carry at least 6 graded hours of course work.

Students on the Honor Roll included:

Brick – Paul Nickerson, Post Baccalaureate, Computer Science.

Jackson – David Lowrimore, Junior, Environmental Sciences.

Little Egg Harbor – Timothy J. Lexa, Post Baccalaureate, Computer Science.

Toms River – Katherine T. Trahan, Senior, Computer Science.

Wall Township – Alexandra R. Fren, Post Baccalaureate, Computer Science.

With the alignment of the Earth, Sun and Moon, the Blood Moon eclipse as seen over the Jersey Shore last week. This is the last total lunar eclipse until 2025. (Photo by Denise Maynard)

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Stopping Unwanted Calls And Texts

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

The rules on robocalls and robotexts:

• FCC rules limit many types of robocalls, though some calls are permissible if prior consent is given.

• Rules differ between landline and wireless phones; however, calls and text messages have the same protection under FCC rules.

• Wireless and landline home phones are protected against telemarketing robocalls made without prior written consent from the recipient.

• An existing commercial relationship does not constitute permission to be robocalled or texted.

• Consent to be called or texted cannot be a condition of a sale or other commercial transaction.

• Consumers can take back their permission to be called or texted in any reasonable way. A calling company cannot require someone to fill out a form and mail it in as the only way to revoke consent.

• All non-emergency robocalls, both telemarketing and informational, require a consumer’s permission to be made to a wireless phone. These calls can include political, polling, and other non-telemarketing robocalls.

• Telemarketers and robocallers are allowed to call a wrong number only once before updating their lists. This most commonly comes up when someone who consented

to be called or texted gave up that number, which was reassigned to someone else. Callers have resources available to them to help them know ahead of time if a number’s “owner” has changed.

• Urgent calls or texts specifically for health or fraud alerts may be allowed without prior consent. They must be free, and consumers can say “stop” at any time.

• Phone companies face no legal barriers to offering consumers the use of technologies that block robocalls to any phone. • The FCC encourages companies to offer this resource.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• To block telemarketing calls, register your number on the Do Not Call list - which protects both landline and wireless phone numbers: www.donotcall.gov,

• Ask your phone company to offer robocall-blocking technology.

• If you use robocall-blocking technology already, it often helps to let that company know which numbers are producing unwanted calls so they can help block those calls for you and others.

• Tell unwanted callers that you do not consent to the call, make a record of the caller’s number and when you made your request not to be called, and let the FCC know if the caller does not comply with your request.

Real Estate

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)

For Rent

Don't Miss The Opportunity Of Renting - A single-family home in Howell. For more details call Rut from Lifestyle International Realty (908)344-7230. (50)

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

For Sale Used Pellet StoveEngland stove works. Mod el 55-SHP10L. Heats 1500 sq. ft. E.P.A. certified. Price $500, ne gotiable. 732-350-1314. (49)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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)

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. (52)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Services

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)

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 RITEFree est. Senior discounts interi or exterior. Call 732-506-7787,

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)

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)

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. (52)

Custom House Painter - Pays at tention to detail, interior, cracks, nail pops,wall repair. Benjamin Moore paints. Wayne 908-327-5471. (52)

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.

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)

6. PHONE

Jackson - House For Sale By Own

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Is It A Tortoise, A Turtle, Or Both?

Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Ever wonder when you see a turtle whether it lives on land or in water? I know I have. The term ‘turtle’ includes approximately 200 species of reptiles who have shells on their back. A step further, there can be both land (tortoises) and water species that are considered turtles. So, what’s the deal with tortoises? They are considered among turtles, except that they ONLY live on land.

Turtles and tortoises share many common traits – they are encased in a shell, have ribs and vertebrae, lay eggs on land, have a pelvic girdle, are unable to thermal regulate their body temperature (relying upon their environment to warm up or cool down), and lastly, rather than teeth they have a hard beak.

The easiest way to identify a tortoise and turtle – a tortoise is terrestrial (living on land), and a turtle spends most of its time in water. Tortoises have rounded, heavier, dome-like shells and would be found in grasslands, deserts, scrub and evergreen and wet tropical forests. They are herbivores eating a large variety of plants, vegetables and fruit. They have thicker,

stumpy, scaly, horned toes – resembling elephant feet. Their legs help them carry their extreme weight as they travel on land.

Turtles love the water and can be found in ponds, swamps, rivers and wetlands. Turtles are omnivores, eating plants and protein like worms and insects, even jellyfish and small fish. Their shells are flatter and smoother, not as bulky, and their feet are either webbed possessing long claws to climb in and out of water, whereas aquatic turtles have fl ippers rather than feet. Box turtles and mud turtles have dome-shaped shells and are considered terrapins – they are smaller in size and exist on land and in water.

The lifespan of a tortoise is a long one. Depending on the size, some can live an average of 90 years. The giant tortoises have been known to live 100 years, even 200 years. A turtle’s average lifespan is approximately 30 years – larger sea turtles will average approximately 65 years.

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.

St. Francis Community Center Cra Show

LONG BEACH – St. Francis Community Center will be hosting their annual Christmas Craft Show on November 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and November 20 from 9:30

a.m. to 2 p.m.

Start your Christmas shopping early by supporting a wide array of local vendors. Holiday and non-holiday crafts avaiable!

Georgian Court graduates advocates, visionaries, humanitarians, boat rockers, achievers, and challengers of the status quo. These are the folks who change the world for the better. Rooted in the mission of Catholic higher education with the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, we welcome students from all religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

What else makes GCU so special?

• Diverse student population, many first in their families to attend college

• Devoted faculty & staff

• 37 majors, 45 minors

• 14 NCAA Division II Sports

• 50+ clubs & organizations, including campus ministry

• 114-acre campus in proximity to NYC, Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore

AT GEORGIAN COURT, STUDENTS EXPAND WHAT IS POSSIBLE.

ARE YOU READY TO EXPAND POSSIBILITY?

expand.georgian.edu • 732-987-2700

HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

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

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY – A very red county in a state known for being blue, Ocean County voters decided to keep the Republicans in charge.

There were two seats on the ballot for the Board of Commissioners – the five-member body which oversees things like fi nances and county roads. Virginia Haines (134,921 votes) and Jack Kelly (135,096 votes) cruised to victory with six-figure vote totals, doubling that of their Democrat challengers, Catherine Paura (56,640 votes) and Roxanne Barnes (56,187 votes).

The vote for sheriff went the same way, with incumbent Republican Michael Mastronardy

GOP Again Leads County Resident Club CV-5 Dance

WHITING – Resident Club CV-5 Dance will be held on December 2 from 7 to 11 p.m. Music by: “The Lenny Davis Band” eight-piece band playing a variety of music.

Cost: $30 includes a buffet of sausage & pep-

receiving 140,535 votes, doubling the total of his challenger, Democrat Salvatore Frascino, who received 55,365 votes.

Every member of the House of Representatives is up for election and county voters backed Republican incumbents Jefferson Van Drew (2nd District) and Chris Smith (4th District). They ultimately won their contests as well.

There were no U.S. Senate elections in New Jersey this year.

County Clerk Scott Colabella said that the results are preliminary and likely to change for a few weeks after election night as provisional ballots and last-minute mail-in votes are counted.

pers, eggplant parm, chicken française, baked ziti, salad, pasta primavera, bread and butter. Snacks, dessert, soda drinks, coffee, and tea. Last day to purchase tickets is November 22. Call Debbie at 201-618-8514 for more information.

Holiday Market – Manahawkin Elks

MANAHAWKIN – The Manahawkin Elks will be holding a Holiday Market on November 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 520

Hilliard Boulevard. For more information contact BriannaMarchal@gmail.com or call 201-638-7456.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Don’t be blase if someone jumps through hoops to please you. Be transparent instead of keeping someone guessing about your feelings. Be sure you pay your bills on time and honor financial commitments this week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Understanding the difference between love and the friend zone could prevent numerous problems. Your work may be scrutinized in the week ahead so be sure you handle routine duties to the best of your ability.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Unless you are an ostrich, you can’t hide your head and hope for the best. Envision the results you wish to achieve and embrace the facts before you take action. Hesitation and doubt can cause misunderstandings in the week ahead.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A partner or loved one can infuse you with a sense of purpose and push you in the right direction. Listen to expert advice about financial strategies in the upcoming week but wait until late in the week to take action.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Put your faith in trustworthy people. They can come through for you in any sticky situation that occurs in the week ahead. Although you may have doubts or feel left out, someone may want to earn your confidence.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Keep the facts of the situation handy so you can clear the air if your motives are questioned. You may be called upon to perform detail-oriented tasks or be saddled with a tough work schedule in the coming week.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Table distractions. It may be difficult to focus on your other commitments if Cupid’s arrows pierce your heart. There is a time and place for everything and there should be plenty of time to share with a loved one this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Enjoy offering a token of your affection. You may be feeling especially kindhearted and harmony-loving at this time. Romantic notions, however, may need to be shelved until work is done in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The horizon looks larger from a distance. Someone close may seem inscrutable or give you conflicting signals in the week ahead. An ally or acquaintance could offer valuable insights that may alter your outlook.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Your judgment about finances and business may temporarily be off base in the upcoming week. Some extra bills can impact your budget. Avoid making major purchases or taking on extra debts and obligations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Passionate work can be its own reward. You may be burdened with extra responsibilities or feel that you are the target of criticism. Family drama can be sorted out and set right at the end of the week.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) : Peace and harmony might be in short supply. You may be challenged by conflicts within the home or family as the week unfolds. Don’t be tempted to break off a relationship over a simple misunderstanding.

By America’s Test Kitchen

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

For the week of nov 19 - nov 25

Jeraldine Saunders

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.