2022-12-03 - The Berkeley Times

Ocean

Food, Supply Drive Fills Truck Samaritans Answer The

Call

Should Access To Records Come With A Cost?

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY – The

Township Council once again asked for a change in the state law that allows people to have township officials retrieve public docu ments for them.

The Open Public Re cords Act allows people access to town infor mation, but some say that it is being abused. Several members of the governing body and administration spoke recently about how they feel strongly that government should be transparent. However, there has been an un intended cost that is being passed on to the taxpayer.

Councilman John Bac chione noted that as of October 24, public

record requests have cost the township $79,876.50 during the course of 2022.

“We have to answer (the requests),” he said. “It’s really something the state has to review.

Berkeley Township doesn’t charge or profit. Why burden the tax payers for questions they don’t even know they’re being asked?”

Township Clerk Bev erly Carle said that this not only costs finances for attorneys’ fees, but there is a time sink for the employees who could be doing other things.

“We provide records electronically for free. If someone wants a copy of a birth certifi cate, they have to pay

(Records - See Page 7)

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER –

Lots and lots of gro ceries were bought on the weekend before Thanksgiving but they didn’t all make it home.

If they were purchased at the ShopRite on Fischer Boulevard in Toms River, some of it wound up in a huge Pepsi truck parked out side. It was part of the

WJRZ Share The Joy collection of food, toys and supplies for Ful fill, formerly the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, as well as Big Brothers Big

Sisters and the Jersey Shore Animal Center. They set up a portable stage and broadcast from that location for two days. Donations (Food - See Page 4)

Sheriff’s Officers Detail Border Crisis On Recent Assignment

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – Two

Ocean County Sheriff’s Department officers bringing a fugitive back to New Jersey partici pated in a unique train ing exercise on their way to Yuma, Arizona.

“Knowing that one of the guys we were send ing down speaks Span

ish, I figured this was a chance to give them the experience of going to the border,” said Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. “I called up some of my Sheriff’s friends down there, Sheriff (Mark) Daniels in Cochise County and Yuma County Sheriff (Leon) Wilmont who I am on the Board of

Directors with on the National Sheriff’s As sociation.”

Mastronardy said he felt both Sheriff’s of ficers Juan Mercado and Geoff Hyatt would benefit from training related to what’s hap pening at the border.

After flying into Phoe nix on a Wednesday,

(Officers - See Page 5)

Holiday Meals To Be Given, Thanks To Students

3,000

giving meal with all the fixings due to the hard work of culinary arts students at the Brick center of Ocean County (Students - See Page 6)

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - Some

of the needy in Ocean and Monmouth Coun ties will have a Thanks

- Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn 3,000 of these meals will go out to those in need.

─Photo by Chris Lundy Robyn Griffith of Beachwood brought a U-Haul with donations that had been filling up her house.

─Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

County Sheriff’s Officers Juan Mercado and Geoff Hyatt discussed what they learned during a training opportunity at the country’s southern border.

were also taken in Neptune for Fulfill and Holiday Express, and at Brave New World in Toms River.

Jackie Farago, marketing director for WJRZ, said that the last few years have been different for the drive, which has been around for a number of years. There were, of course, the challenges of COVID. People were out of work and donations were needed more than ever. People who usually would give more found it difficult to help out.

During these years, Big Brothers Big Sisters was just accepting gift cards, she said. Now, they are back to accepting toys. This has delighted donors because everyone

loves shopping for toys.

Now, the effects of COVID are still linger ing a bit and the economy is still troubled. She said she’s hearing people say “I wish I could give more but this is all I can do.”

They received tons of canned food. They also were able to make special call-outs over the air. If something specific was needed, all they had to do was make mention of it be tween songs and listeners would bring it in.

For example, most people wouldn’t think to bring in baking items or spices, so if they made a request for that, people would add it to their grocery lists, Farago said.

The weekend was filled with stories of special people who made amazing dona tions. They would get a shout out by the DJ although most of them didn’t give their full name.

One local resident, from Beachwood, has made it an annual mission to collect from her neighbors and brought a U-Haul truck with boxes of donations. Some of them came from organizations, such as the Bayville Elks or Veterans of Foreign Wars. Boy Scout Troop 83 of Bayville’s Scouting for Food on November 12 and 13 was a huge success and their donations were given to this event. Beachwood also has a friendly competition between its four zones – divided based on the day of their garbage pick-up. They competed to see which zone was the most giving. Some of them came from individual do nations, such as a woman who gave $500 last year and came back this year with

$1,000. She refused to give her name.

“This is not an ‘I’ endeavor. So many people stood behind me,” she said. Many of them didn’t know Joe D’Ambro, her fiancé who passed away recently, but the donations this year were made in his name. His brother, Phil, was one of several friends and family members who helped empty the U-Haul. The donations were boxed and labeled, and expiration dates were checked.

Joe had been a realtor with Crossroads Realty. Last year, they made a donation of $2,000. This year, it was $6,000. Next year, all involved said that they hoped the donations would be even more.

Photo courtesy Robyn Griffith Boy Scout Troop 83 of Bayville’s Scouting for Food collection went toward this event.

Officers:

Continued From Page 1

Mercado and Hyatt drove southeast to Coch ise County to spend the day with the Cochise County Sheriff. A day later, the two officers met with Sheriff Wilmont to see a different view of the United States/Mexico border. That Friday, Mercado and Hyatt returned to New Jersey with the prisoner.

“The border is so many miles and not enough law enforcement officers to cover it,” summed up Mercado. “The amount of illegal people coming across is just overwhelming.”

The Sheriff’s officers noticed people walking towards the border with their backpacks on in broad daylight. As early as 10 in the morning, Mercado and Hyatt watched as various indi viduals looked for openings to make it into the United States.

Not all attempting to come across the border originated from Spanish-speaking countries, like those in Central America or South America. Some have traveled from far away places such as Afghanistan, the Ukraine and China, and are looking to seek asylum in the United States.

A designated entry point at the border processes those who turn themselves in to authorities.

“In the 20 minutes before we got there,” Hyatt said. “They already had about 200 people come right through. They had officers standing there waiting, knowing they were coming there.”

On a daily basis, thousands of people come

through the detention area after they’re pro cessed, they said.

Cartels appear to play a significant role in bringing the groups to the border – regardless of the country of national origin for those coming into the states. All migrants are expected to pay the cartels massive amounts of money.

“They control the whole border along the Mexican side,” shared Hyatt. “All the towns and all the paths to get to the other side.”

Cochese County authorities advised the two Ocean County Sheriff’s officers that the same is true even on the American side. There are stash houses for humans and for drugs.

“Some of the illegals that come over are put in safe houses,” Mercado added. “Now they have to pay the rest of the money they didn’t pay to come across. They have to work for the cartels to pay off the rest of the money they owe.”

The numbers can be as high as tens of thou sands of dollars.

Meanwhile, transportation of illegals from Phoenix to other cities has become another booming business. Individuals are charged from $700-$900 each to hitch rides in ten-per son vans.

Once a crowd of people entering illegally assembles, officers on the United States side are expected to process them. The procedure can take hours and includes working with Border Patrol officers.

Both officers acknowledged that many people coming over the border do so to find work and a better life. However, there’s no way of telling their backgrounds and if their

intent represents harm to those settled on the American side.

According to Hyatt, he and Mercado had a hard time booking a hotel in Cochese County. Hyatt attributed their frustration with the fact that the government pays for hotel rooms for those who cross until family members come to claim them.

The Border Wall

The entire U.S.-Mexico border is approx imately 1,933 miles. There was some kind of wall or barrier on 654 miles of this before Donald Trump became president.

During Trump’s presidency, 458 miles of wall were built. However, only 49 miles of new wall was built – the rest was either im provements or a replacement of an existing barrier.

The cost for the wall has been in the billions of dollars, and some of that had been directed away from national defense funding for this.

The Associated Press reported in the summer that although President Biden halted former President Trump’s wall project, Biden pledged to fill four gaps near Yuma. There was also 13 miles built by Biden’s administration in Texas.

Critics of the wall have stated that a wall only works if you have someone watching it. Customs and Border Protection docu ments leaked in March of this year showed that Trump’s new sections of wall had been breached 3,272 times, mostly with common power tools found at hardware stores.

The training in both Arizona county loca tions led the two Ocean County law enforce ment officials to similar conclusions. There’s

not enough manpower to cover the border. In Cochese County, four Sheriff’s officers patrol an 80-mile stretch through the mountains.

It all changed when the current adminis tration came into power according to Hyatt. Materials intended to finish the border wall all sit by the wayside and are not being utilized to complete the job.

The wall itself was intended to be construct ed of steel pillars filled with concrete.

Nonetheless, Hyatt admitted the fence still came with limitations. Those with a will could find their way to go through it, under it or over it. The bottoms could be torched with a hole allowing someone to slip through underneath.

“The cartels could have a 10-year-old kid sitting there with a hacksaw for two or three days,” said Hyatt. “But you’d still have more chance to catch someone by just having this open door and unfinished fence.”

When Mercado and Hyatt met with the Yuma County Sheriff’s officers, they sat through a presentation documenting how much crime had skyrocketed as a result of the open borders. The number of murders, thefts, burglaries and violent crimes showed a dramatic increase.

Mercado, who was born in Puerto Rico, had the benefit of understanding the language of many of the people who made the trip across the border. When he and Hyatt participated in a traffic stop, Mercado took the opportunity to ask questions.

“There were two illegal aliens in the back of the car, and I spoke with them,” Mercado shared.

“One told me it was his second time trying to (Officers - See Page 9)

Students: Continued From Page 1

Vocational Technical School (OCVTS).

No one is exactly sure when “Feed the Need” started - the best guess is somewhere around 25 to 30 years ago - but it began when a church group asked if the culinary arts students could prepare 25 meals, said vo-tech teacher, Chef Gary Lesniak.

The program has grown and grown over the years as the need became greater, he said, and they try not to turn anyone away.

OCVTS partners with Fulfill Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, who provided some 500 frozen turkeys. The birds arrived on November 4, just before the fall school break, he said.

It took a full week for the turkeys to defrost in the refrigerator, so when the students returned from break on November 14, they deboned them since they otherwise wouldn’t fit in the ovens, Lesniak said.

The culinary arts students learn that dark meat typically takes longer to cook since it contains fat, and the bones are used to make stock for the gravy, Lesniak said.

It takes more than just turkey to make a Thanksgiving meal. Tommy Yanisko, who is the Food Service Director at Community Hospital in Toms River, holds a cash fund raiser every year for Feed the Need.

Yanisko’s fundraiser pays for most of the groceries, including green beans, yams, on ions, butter, potatoes and much more, Lesniak said. Yanisko prepared over 1,000 meals during the COVID pandemic, which was the only year Feed the Need was canceled.

OCVTS Chef Rosanne DelNero taught the students how to prepare the green bean casserole and stuffing. Chef Donna Squel ero showed them how to prepare the sweet potatoes, which included marshmallows and onion crisps.

Chef Jill Scott, who teaches Introduction to Culinary Arts to high school juniors and seniors, had organized two assembly lines on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving when the students packed the dinners that consisted of 2 oz. of dark meat, 4 oz. of white meat, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato mash, green bean casserole and gravy.

“They are learning volume feeding, which are far-reaching skills that are used in assisted living facilities, hospitals and manufactur ing,” Scott said.

Brick vo-tech student Derek Whittom, who is a junior at Brick Memorial, helped to portion the turkey and prepare the mashed potatoes.

“I always wanted to learn how to cook be cause I want to work in a restaurant,” he said.

“And it’s for a good cause.”

Maille Fitzpatrick, who is a post-secondary student from Bayville, said she enjoyed learn ing how to debone a turkey.

“It means a lot because this will help a bunch of people,” she said.

Xavion Moore, a senior from Lakewood High School, said his favorite part was cutting up and mashing 300 pounds of potatoes.

Mariah Blevins, a junior from Pinelands High School, said helping people get food for Thanksgiving “is a wonderful opportunity; it puts the cherry on top.”

Lesniak said first year students are apprehen sive during the massive Thanksgiving food preparation, but “once they get going, they realize the magnitude of Feed the Need.”

The meals will keep for a week because the students plate them cold and keep them cold, he said. They are microwaveable, but Lesniak said he suspects a lot of the meals are eaten cold since many might not have access to a microwave or a stove.

The meals are distributed to a number of non-profit organizations, such as 750 to Jesus is Lord Fellowship in Brick; 180 to DCF (child protective services); 35 to Chambers Bridge Residence; 45 dinners to an at-risk-youth outreach program called TEAM, run by Brick Police Officer Sean Flynn; 210 meals to Seaside Heights Elementary School; 45 to Toms River Senior Center, and many others, Lesniak said.

$5.” She used this as a way to compare some services where residents pay versus some where they don’t, wondering where the line should be drawn.

The Township Council crafted a resolu tion asking the state to look at OPRA and have a solution where the municipality is not impacted.

The issue is to keep requests from be ing frivolous. But how would one define frivolous?

Township Engineer Ernie Peters said sometimes the requests are extremely specific. There are some answers that are on the township’s website. The questioner should be able to just look it up, instead they are asking a township employee to do their homework for them.

“Nobody is taking away the right of the public to see public records,” Business Administrator John Camera said. Howev er, if something is already on the town’s website, employees can’t just point them in the right direction. They have to follow the petitioner’s request.

Councilman Thomas Grosse said that if the township is asking the state to fix something, the state would be more likely to act on specific suggestions. They are not likely to respond to something that just says “fix your problem.”

Township Attorney Lauren Staiger said that the last two times the township reached out to the state for relief they listed specific changes.

If, for example, a person has a frivolous lawsuit against the town, it can be thrown out of court. But there’s no guidance on how to define a frivolous request. Addi tionally, there’s no guidance on the pay rate of a municipal attorney, if the denial goes to court. One other suggestion would

be that the town only has to pay if they lose their OPRA suit.

Recently, there has been a push by clerks and other officials in towns across the state to address the costs – in terms of time and money – that these requests cause.

Stafford Police Chief Thomas Dellane, who is also the president of the New Jer sey State Association of Chiefs of Police, took issue with it as well. He said that law firms ask for car crash reports to create a client list. Therefore, they are using taxpayer funds (in the form of paying town employees) to generate revenue for their company.

Manchester Township Clerk Sabina Martin made comments during a meeting in her town earlier this year that mirrored the ones being made in Berkeley. She also felt that some people were using it as a way to attack the town.

“(OPRA) is used as a tool for litigation against the town which costs taxpayer money for defense. We haven’t lost an OPRA case yet but it is costing you money in the process and they aren’t even town ship residents. I think it is really insulting to the residents that this is happening,” she said.

In 2019, the Municipal Clerks’ Asso ciation of New Jersey called for a study commission to review the law.

That group crafted a sample resolution for towns to pass which said that OPRA is “a well-intended law that has spiraled out of control, due to the volume and nature of requests, the cost to taxpayers in re sponding to the requests, and the potential liability in having to pay disproportionate prevailing party attorney’s fees should the requests turn into litigated matters, as well as the liability in determining which documents shall be released, with or without redaction, while attempting to maintain individual privacy.”

OCEAN TIMES

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN

President & Publisher Stew Swann Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff News Editor Chris Lundy Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller Production Manager Allison Gradzki Graphic Artist Adriana Starcic

Distribution Manager Laura Hoban Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano Layout Designer Sara Zorns

Capitol Comments

S potlight o n g overnment

$126M Will Support NJ Hospitals, Agencies For Covid-Related Services

(FEMA) funding to reim burse public agencies and several hospitals across New Jersey for expenses incurred during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Capitol Comments

JERSEY CITY – U.S. Senators Bob Me nendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) an nounced a combined total $126,278,315.30 in Federal Emergency Management Agency

“The early days of the pandemic proved challeng ing for hospitals across the country as they dealt with a spike in addition al patients, less staff, and strapped resources,” said Sen. Menendez. “But our hospitals throughout New Jersey faced the challenge head-on, ensuring their pa tients and staff remained safe. This funding is critical so that these health care providers can continue providing quality care, while also taking care of the doctors, nurses, and

administrative staff who keep their hospitals running every single day.”

“Since the onset of the pandemic, hospitals in New Jersey have been on the front lines caring for people with COVID-19,” said Sen. Booker. “This important federal award shows that we have their backs. I will con tinue fighting to secure the resources they need to protect public health.”

The following hospitals and agencies re ceived funding:

• Hackensack Meridian Health Inc.$63,932,783.05

• Cooper University Hospital$28,719,845.82

• Atlantic Health Hospital Corp.$13,422,592.34

• Barnabas Health Inc.- $11,391,103.66

• N.J. Office of the Attorney General$6,013,092

• Holy Name Hospital - $1,716,400.50

• Port Authority of N.Y. & N.J. - $1,082,497.93

In September, Sens. Menendez and Booker announced over $32 million in COVID reimbursement expenses to Cooper Uni versity. In October, they announced $7.6 million for Valley Hospital and $5.4 million for the New Jersey Department of Health for costs incurred during the beginning of the pandemic.

Last year, Sen. Menendez, who led a years-long effort to reform how FEMA responds to disasters, announced that the agency answered his call to eliminate the cost-sharing requirements for disaster grants. The directive issued by President Biden allows states and local governments to be retroactively reimbursed at 100% for eligible expenses to combat COVID-19 incurred since Jan. 2020, and to apply for full reimbursement for additional eligible expenses going forward.

Health Department Encourages Flu Shot, COVID-19 Boosters Ahead of Holidays

Phil Murphy

TRENTON - With holiday gatherings being held by families, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is en couraging everyone 6 months of age and older to get their annual flu shot and COVID-19 booster when eligible, and is urging residents to take precau tions as other respiratory illnesses, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV), continue to circulate.

New Jersey, as well as much of the rest of the country, has seen an earlier start to the flu season this year. Respiratory Syncytial Virus as well as rhinovirus and enterovirus and COVID-19 are also circulating in the state. NJDOH is mon itoring and watching hospitalizations and pediatric intensive care units daily throughout the state.

“As New Jerseyans begin to gather with friends and family for the upcom ing holidays, it’s important for every one to continue taking the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Getting vaccinated when recommended, practicing good

hand and respiratory hygiene, and staying home when sick are ways residents can work to gether to have a happier and healthier holiday season.”

“Getting an annual flu shot will help protect everyone, particularly vulnerable residents such as younger children and older adults, from influenza,” said Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “The Department is monitoring these respiratory illnesses closely, and their impact on hospitals and Emergency Departments.”

The federal Centers for Disease Con trol and Prevention (CDC) also recom mends that everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines for their age group. Everyone 6 months of age and older is eligible to receive a COVID-19 primary series and people 5 years of age and older are recommended to receive the updated booster at least 2 months after their primary series or last monovalent booster.

RSV, which usually circulates in the state from late fall to early spring, causes common cold symptoms in adults and older children, while in younger children and infants, it can cause wheezing and pneumonia. How ever, it can also cause more severe infection. Most people recover in a

week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults.

At the same time, the state is seeing many children with infections in the upper airways and lungs due to rhino virus and enterovirus, which can result in wheezing and breathing difficulties.

Parents should call their pediatrician or a healthcare provider if their child has any of the following symptoms: rapid breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath; ribs pulling in with each breath; is very ill or drowsy; poor eat ing; dehydration; vomiting for more than 24 hours; fever in a child younger than 12 weeks. While these are warning signs, please consult your healthcare provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.

Individuals can take precautions by continuing to wash their hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, cough into their elbows or sleeves, and get immunized for influenza and COVID-19. Individuals at high risk for severe illness and their visitors should consider wearing a high-qual ity, well-fitting mask which may help reduce the spread of respiratory vi ruses. Individuals who are sick should remain at home.

Flu vaccination prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related doctor’s vis its each year. Despite these benefits, during the 2021-2022 flu seasons, only 57% of adults (18 and older) and 67.7%

of children (6 months –17 years old) in New Jersey received a flu vaccine.

Flu vaccination is available at health care provider offices, pharmacies, federally qualified health centers and local health departments. Many vac cines are covered by insurers at little to no cost to individuals. In addition, NJDOH’s Vaccine Preventable Dis ease Program (VPDP) helps to reduce economic barriers to childhood vac cines through the Vaccines for Chil dren program which offers vaccines at no cost to eligible children through healthcare providers enrolled in the program. The VPDP also participates in the 317-funded adult program which provides vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults.

COVID-19 vaccination locations can be found using the NJ Vaccine Appointment Finder or by calling the statewide COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center (855-568-0545). The COVID-19 vaccine is available for free, regardless of insurance status.

“Vaccines have proven to be safe and effective,” said Commissioner Persi chilli. “We urge all New Jerseyans to get up to date on all recommended vaccinations to ensure a safe and healthy holiday season. We especially encourage all New Jerseyans, ages 5 and older, to get the new updated booster to ensure the strongest pro tection against COVID-19 variants.”

From The Desk Of The Governor

Senator Robert Menendez

Senator Cory Booker

Officers

: Continued From Page 5

get across.”

The man said he was from Mexico and that his plan was to come to the states to find work because it was financially tough in his country. Mercado pressed to find out if a fee was involved in making the trip.

“At first he denied it and I kept talking to him,” said Mercado. “He eventually said his family paid half the money and would pay the rest when he got to the safe house.”

The total amount owed in this case was $6,000 – seemingly worth a possible new beginning.

While people from Puerto Rico can travel throughout the 50 states as American citizens,

Mercado easily related to the reason his parents decided to leave their birthplace. They wanted a better life for their children – just as is the case for many who take the risk of crossing the border.

“It’s just so frustrating because we have a problem and people don’t address it,” Mercado shared. “We need to fix it and create some kind of program or temporary visa that lets people stay here legally if they have no criminal back ground. Let them pay their taxes here.”

Hyatt nodded his head in agreement. The trip to pick up the fugitive at the border turned out to be an eye opener for both county law enforce ment officers. Both credited Mastronardy for providing them with the opportunity to see the chaos at the border in person.

Chris Lundy contributed to this story

Winter Solstice Walk

BAYVILLE – Join us for a leisurely paced 2-mile walk along the sandy trails of the Double Trouble Historic District on December 21. Start at 10 a.m. outside the village restroom building past the map kiosk in the parking area. Held sun or driz zle. Steady rain/snow or thunder cancels. Ages 16 and up. No pets. Please plan

on arriving at least 15 minutes before program start. 15 people maximum. Registration required at DoubleTrouble. eventbrite.com . Groups of ten or more people must contact us directly to inquire about arrangements.

For additional information call 732341-4098.

Pre-Season Beach Badges Now On Sale

BERKELEY – Just in time for the holidays! Mayor Carmen Amato and Berkeley Recreation are pleased to an nounce that for a limited time, ending December 23, pre-season beach badges

are available for that perfect gift or stocking stuffer. Price is $40 per badge, (regular price $50).

Badges are available online at secure. municipay.com/payapp/public/ECSale.

Substitutes Wanted For Berkeley Schools

BERKELEY – The Berkeley Township School District is looking for substitute teachers. The rate of pay is $105/day. If you have 60 college credits you are eligible to substitute in Berkeley Township Schools.

To apply, visit btboe.org. Click on: Board of Education; Click on: Board Documents & Resources; Click on: Employment Opportunities. Complete an Applitrack application.

Students Make Gratitude Stones

BERKELEY – On November 16, students in the H & M Potter School Fall Wellness Club with Mrs. Lee and Mrs. Desch partici pated in activities about gratitude. Students read “Gratitude Is My Superpower” and

─Photo

made gratitude stones to spread gratitude. They also expressed people, places and things we are grateful for. Students even gave out tokens of gratitude towards others. It was a powerful lesson.

courtesy Berkeley Schools

BERKEELY – On November 17, Bay ville School’s fourth grade Peer Leaders engaged in a dynamic workshop with Lead U. These ambassadors learned about empowerment and leadership as they participated in various activities. The Peer Leaders are pioneers, as they are the first group of ambassadors at Bayville School and are paving the way for future leaders. Their mission is to

─Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools EDUCATORS!

732-657-7344

October Students Of The Month

Town Christmas Tree Lighting

BEACHWOOD – Come join us as they light the tree at Townhall to kick off the Holiday Season. The Christmas Tree Lighting will be on December 4 at 7 p.m. at Beachwood Borough Hall.

Santa will be arriving on the fire truck. Come early we will have other special guests, face painting along with hot choc olate and treats for everyone and get your pictures taken with Santa

V.F.W. Post 10185 News

By Past Post Commander James Egan

The meetings of Silver/Holiday V.F.W. Post 10185 will be held on the first Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. in the Clubhouse at 145 Westbrook Drive, Silver Ridge Park West. We meet in the daytime, so you do not have to drive at night. To join our post, just bring a copy of your Discharge (DD-214) to our meeting and you’ll received a hardy welcome and refreshments before the meeting. If you need a ride to the meeting or want more infor mation without any obligation call Past Post Commander James Egan at 732-341-4905. Remember if you hear of any Post member passing away or being in the hospital, call any Officer and let him know.

There will not be any V.F.W. District 12 meeting in December.

Tuesday, December 7th is the 80th Anniver sary of the Japanese Bombing of our naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii and sinking of

our battleships. This was the beginning of WWII for the United States in 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said in his radio broad cast to our nation that “This Day of infamy will Live Forever.” The casualties were 2,403 killed, 1,178 wounded and the Battleship Ar izona is still lying on the bottom of the Pearl Harbor as a memorial to the Days of Infamy.

Sunday, December 18th: Hanukkah begins at sunset, and ends Monday, December 26th Wednesday, December 21st: Winter begins, get out your warm clothing and snow boots. Sunday, December 25th is Christmas Day. Saturday, December 31st is New Year’s Eve. It’s time to make your New Year’s Res olutions.

The VFW would like you to drop your old and faded flags off at either H.C.S. Clubhouse (Main Building), S.R.P.W., S.R.P.N., S.R.P.E., and Holiday City Berkeley Clubhouses. Fly the flag every day, weather permitting.

Fire Company Receives Grant For New Equipment

intends to purchase new bunker gear for several members whose gear is nearing the end of its lifespan, and also a heavy-duty gear washer and dryer, to be used to clean the gear and remove toxins and carcinogens that can become embedded in the material when exposed to high heat and fire conditions.

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Cremation With Memorial Package $1900

Package includes: Removal from hospital or facility within 25 miles of funeral home, all funeral home service fees, and required cremation container MCDDT-01. Package excludes Crematory charges.

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One Dead In Head-On Car Crash

By Alyssa Riccardi

BERKELEY – An 81-year-old man died from injuries in a fatal head-on crash that happened Tuesday after noon, police said.

The crash took place around 2:41 p.m. on November 22 in the area of 854 Pinewald Keswick Road. A 61-year-old woman from Whiting was driving a 2019 Honda HRV when she left the east bound lane and struck a 2010 Honda Fit head-on.

and began medical treatment to both drivers.

The driver of the Honda Fit, an 81-year-old man from Whiting, ul timately succumbed to the injuries sustained, police said. The woman was flown to Jersey Shore Medical Center for her injuries.

Officers along with Manchester EMS arrived on scene

Berkeley Police

This accident is currently being in vestigated by members of the Berkeley Township Traffic Safety Bureau. Any one with information is asked to call the Berkeley Township Traffic Safety Bureau at 732-341-1132 ext. 2125.

Body Worn Cameras Donated

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – As police departments continue to change technology, they have to make sure that everyone in the department is using the same equip ment.

Berkeley Police Chief Kevin Santucci said that the Ocean Gate Police De partment uses the body worn cameras that Berkeley no longer uses. Berkeley changed their cameras, so they are do nating the old ones to Ocean Gate.

$171,000 Raised For American Cancer Society

ATLANTIC CITY – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City has raised a total of $171,554 through their PINKTOBER initiative benefitting the American Cancer Society. The funds raised by Hard Rock Atlantic City will benefit the American Cancer Society’s mission locally. More than $110,000 of the total was raised by Jim Martin, Hard Rock Atlantic City’s Director of Employee

and Labor Relations, who was named the top ambassador for Real Men Wear Pink of the Greater Philadelphia area and the No. 4 fundraiser in the nation.

“I was humbled to be a part of the Real Men Wear Pink 2022 Campaign,” noted Martin. “My wife is a survivor, and I am so proud to be a part of this Hard Rock Team that continues to support the re search to help band together for a cure.”

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

5 Reasons To Visit Us This Winter

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 im pacted 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 Bat teries 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 conden sation, 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 compati bility, 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, 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 abil ity 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 de vices 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 avail able to answer your questions about hearing health. His offices are located in Toms River, Manahawkin, and Whiting and can be reached by calling 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)

Triphala Is A Remarkable Gut Soother For These 9 Problems

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Most experts today agree on one thing and that is that good health begins in the gut. And since herbal remedies represent the most ancient medicines of our healthcare history, I would like to focus today on one particular supplement that is foundational.

It’s called Triphala. “Tri” refers to the number three, and “phala” means fruits. Triphala is a combination of three fruits: Haritaki, Amal aki, and Bibhitaki.

Many people experience gastrointestinal (GI) problems, including bloating, flatulence or abdominal pain. No matter the cause of these problems, Triphala, a unique botanical formula, has a long history of therapeutic value!

Before I get to the potential uses of Triphala, it’s important to note that reducing GI symp toms requires dietary changes, a good deal of time, and different methods! It is not like you take a pill (for example an acid blocker) and you’re good. That’s one thing that I think some people forget when it comes to relieving chronic GI symptoms.

buy a bottle of Triphala supplement, you are getting all 3 of those herbs. The supplement is available at health food stores nationwide, online retailers and most holistic-oriented clinics like at your acupuncturist’s clinic or naturopath’s office.

Do not take Triphala if you are pregnant or taking blood pressure medication. It may interact with many different medications, so please check with your pharmacist or physician if you take warfarin, or a statin cholesterol-reducing medication, or even an antipsychotic or antidepressant.

The herbal supplement is not intended for serious GI concerns such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, obstructions, jaundice or any major illness.

Historically speaking, herbal remedies are considered among the most powerful meth ods of supporting good health. Triphala is multi-tasing and can support many aspects of gastrointestinal health, but again, not emergencies.

Triphala is usually taken without regard to meals. It has a very mild diuretic effect, which some people do not even notice, but for that reason, some people do not take it at bedtime.

Dried herbal extracts of the above 3 fruits are what constitute Triphala so when you

Triphala has a very soothing anti-inflam matory effect on the entire gut, and can bring relief to some people very quickly. I have written a much longer article about Triphala and its impact on various cancer outcomes. I’ve found positive studies for Triphala’s use in pancreatic, gastric, prostate, colon and breast cancer! This article is available if you are interested, find it posted at my website, suzycohen.com.

Around the JerSey Shore

The Comings And Goings Of Hibernating And Migrating Species

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

You may already be in touch with nature and understand that there are those species who will vacate their native area, while new ones will arrive. Then there are those who will live here all year long. Wildlife has a unique way of coping with climate change, food shortages and reproductive cycles.

Hibernating animals will take a break from showing up each day. Bats and large rodents such as groundhogs are those species who slow down their metabolisms, requiring less food due to their lack of activity. The black bear prepares for hibernation by consuming as much food as they can to last them thru the hibernation period. Because their size is so large, they don’t allow their body temperature to drop.

Squirrels, deer, foxes, coyotes, rac coons, and skunks don’t hibernate. They will remain here doing their best to survive through the colder months. Chipmunks will enter a restless hi bernation as winter approaches and become less active from late fall thru the winter months.

Migrating birds of New Jersey fly south spending their winters where food is available. Thrushes, vireos, hummingbirds and warblers are some

examples of birds who will leave the area. Since migrating birds travel long distances to support their climate and food needs, new arrivals to New Jersey will also occur. For those birds our climate is warmer than their northern states. Snow geese, snowy owls, loons, just to name a few, will come to winter over in the Pine Barrens and along the coast. Seals from New England will arrive in large numbers at Sandy Hook and Barnegat Light.

A few birds who will stick with us during those cold months will be the various species of sparrows and finch es, titmice, woodpeckers, cardinals, and blue jays.

Feeding during the colder monthsplease do not feed ANY human food. Human food does not provide daily re quirements (and then what’s the point?) and can be dangerous and sometimes fatal. Instead consult your local regu lations on feeding and stick to the food sources that are formulated to provide the nutrition they need.

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 New Jersey State and/or Federal permits.

Ocean County’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Ceremony on December 7 at 4:45 p.m. at 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River. For more information call 732-929-2000.

AS THE LEADING RESOURCE FOR SENIOR VETERANS WE WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE APPROVAL PROCESS

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners cordially invites you to Ocean County’s Christmas Tree Lighting

Why A Survey Is Essential For Successful Closing?

By: Marc S. Galella, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

During the process of purchasing a home, many buyers are concerned with the bottom line and look for ways to cut costs. One of the first items they may choose to forego to save money is to opt out of ordering a survey. This article is intended to provide information which will assist the purchaser in making a well-informed decision whether to obtain or forego a survey.

Many purchasers are not aware of all the various important components that a survey can disclose. A survey is not just a simple drawing showing boundary lines and location of the dwelling, but it also delineates right of ways, easements, encroachments, and/or gaps between property lines. The survey can also confirm the location of a water way, an existing improvement and determine whether all the structures on the property you are looking to purchase are within the property boundary lines such as sheds, pools, retaining walls and fences. Perhaps the most important pieces of information a survey will provide are the property’s zoning classification, dimension and size, which will allow you to determine if the property conforms to the local lot size requirements.

Once the survey is obtained your attor ney will forward it to the title company, who will also research the information contained therein. If the survey accurately shows that there are no property line en croachments then the title company will not require any exceptions in its policy, which will allow the title company to provide coverage and defend against any

Marc S. Galella Esq.

one who, in the future, challenges the accuracy of the property lines. If you do not have an accurate and current survey prior to clos ing then any disputes, whether it is with the seller, a neighbor or a governmental agency, as to the location of a fence, shed, or any larger structure such as a pool, deck or an addition will become yours to resolve. These disputes can be costly and you possibly may be precluded from seeking recourse from the previous owner.

The basic survey cost is around $650-800 and of course the cost may be more if the property is very large or has irregular shape. If you chose to have metal stakes installed at the corners then that may in crease the cost of the survey. These mark ers are important for those homeowners who, after making the purchase, want to install a fence, pool, shed, or an addition to the dwelling.

The purchase of a home or lot may be overwhelming but the attorneys at R.C. Shea and Associates can assist you through that process. The law firm of R.C. Shea & Associates, Counsellors at Law, is a full service law firm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medicaid Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use and Planning Law, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney and much more. Call or visit our office Toms River office at 732-5051212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, email us at Rshea@rcshea.com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com

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Around the JerSey Shore

3rd Annual Victorian Holiday Open House

TOMS RIVER – On December 3, the Ocean County Historical Society will again be offering its very popular Victo rian Holiday Open House. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “I love bringing my grandchildren to have their pictures taken with the Vic torian Santa Claus,” stated OCHS Board member Pat Moore.

Santa will be available for picture tak ing from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The festive

day also includes tours of the house, a model train show, gifts for children and refreshments. Best of all, the event is free to the public.

“The day is really fun for the entire family and I run into so many old friends there,” according to Pat Moore.

The Historical Society is located in Downtown Toms River at 26 Hadley Avenue For additional information, call Jeff at 609-339-9134.

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

TOMS RIVER – Join Quantum Be havioral Health Services every last Wednesday of the month for informa tive discussions surrounding the role of family in addiction recovery. They will discuss things like boundaries, rebuild ing trust, and repairing relationships.

Meetings are in person at their facil ity and can also be attended via live stream, by visiting qtreatment.com/ family-awareness and clicking the link provided. They take place on the last Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Beacon Of Life Toy/Food Drive

Around the JerSey Shore

Island Singers

“Holidays Around the World”

OCEAN COUNTY – The Island Singers presents “Holidays Around the World.” Join as they celebrate the mu sic of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christ mas. This choral concert will leave you feeling festive and full of the beautiful spirit of the season. Free admission.

Donations greatly appreciated.

December 11 at 3 p.m. - St Paul Lu theran Church 130 Cable Avenue, Beachwood December 17 at 2 p.m. - Community Reformed Church 36 Lacey Road, Whiting

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

Christ Lutheran Church

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

E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

Jackson - House For Sale By Own

er.

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)

For Rent

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

Misc.

Notice of Cessation of Services

by Maureen Kubisz DVM, dba

Total Pet Hospital LLC, on October 14, 2022. Medical records will be stored online by Idexx Laboratories, Inc, One Idexx Drive, Westbrook, Maine 04092. Send records re quests by email to totalpethospital@ gmail.com, or by mail to PO Box 8881, Hamilton, NJ 08650. (47)

Items For Sale

CHRISTMAS PASTELES - Puerto Rican Tradition. Pork or Chicken $40/ dozen, $75/2 dozen, $110/3 dozen. Call/text Cary 908-770-8537. (2)

Three piece queen bedroom set like new, $394. was origionally $1,200. Cat carrier $18. Walker with wheels and seat $39. Beige carpet runner 25 ft. 732-503-3263. (51)

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)

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)

Help Wanted

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)

Dental Assistant - We’re currently looking to hire a qualified DENTAL ASSISTANT. Will train the right per son. Call 732-938-2800 for details. (2)

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, 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. (52)

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

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)

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)

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 Aides - Need ed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

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)

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)

Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres.

photo of the week

An amazing sunset captured by Lauren Hanle in her backyard. Want to have your pictures featured in this space? How about a chance to win tickets to Six Flags Great Adventure? Email your pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com

Rockefeller Center Bus Trip

OCEAN COUNTY – Holiday Bus Trip to Rockefeller Center in New York City will be on December 11. Departs from the Barnegat Municipal Complex at 9:15 a.m. and the Brick Plaza (Cedar Bridge Road entrance) area of Burlington Coat Factory at 10 a.m. Returns at approximately 8 p.m. in Brick and 8:30 p.m. in Barnegat.

Cost is $35 per person and includes bus ride, free time in New York City for viewing the Christmas Tree, shopping and sightsee ing, and refreshments on the bus. Event is a fundraiser for the Ocean County Columbus Day parade and Italian Festival. For further information or to make reser vations, contact: Michael at 732-477-6507.

Wellspring Church Gift Card Drive-Thru

TOMS RIVER – Wellspring Church is giving away $15,000 in ShopRite gift cards on December 4! Beginning at 9 a.m., the church is hosting a Gift Card Drive-Thru and giving away 300, $50 ShopRite gift cards to those in need. Event location & details: Kohl’s parking lot located on Route 37, Toms River (in front of the old Foodtown).

Vehicles must enter the drive-thru line at the Highland Parkway entrance behind the old Foodtown. Toms River police will help direct you once you are in the lot. Gift cards will be first come, first served and one per vehicle (no exceptions). Once in line, you’ll be given a ticket to guarantee you’ll receive a gift card.

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Friendly’s Route 37 Location Has Unhappy Ending

By Bob Vosseller

TOMS RIVER – Township resident Bob O’Keefe wanted some ice cream on a Tuesday afternoon so he stopped at a familiar location, the Friendly’s on Route 37. The marquee sign advertised a free sundae with every “Happy Ending” menu item.

O’Keefe was disappointed because all he got was an ending. The long-time restaurant/ice cream parlor had closed its doors to the public a day earlier on November 21. Staff members were still working inside and referring those who stopped in to go to the nearest - and now only - Friendly’s location in Ocean Coun ty, on Hooper Avenue in Toms River. O’Keefe was a frequent patron of the Route 37 location. “I came for some ice cream. That’s a shame. I knew the own er of Friendly’s years ago. I worked for Rolls Royce Automobiles. The owner of this Friendly’s came from Connecticut and he owned 12 Rolls Royce’s. He was a very rich man.

“He offered me a franchise way back when he first started which I think was 1965. I met him at Teaneck when he opened up one there. When he opened up in Teaneck he was there and I looked at his Rolls Royce and I said I work for Rolls Royce and the company is right around the corner,” he said as he sat in his car in the Friendly’s parking lot. O’Keefe added, “we were talking and he said to me ‘would you like to open up a franchise’ but I told him I had four kids and it would be tough for me to make a change like that and I told him I was with a good company. I always loved their ice cream and their food and I never had a problem with them.”

“If he was still alive this wouldn’t have happened. He ran things with an iron fist and he was good.”

The Friendly’s that closed bordered Berkeley Township. The home of the Fribble and various specialty ice cream sundaes is down to one Ocean County location after closures in other areas of Toms River and Brick Township.

At one time there were four Friendly’s restaurants in Toms River alone. Years ago, you could enjoy a club sandwich and a Fribble milkshake at a Friendly’s inside the Ocean County Mall. Todd Walker remembers those days because he worked there at the time.

He and Annie Lederman live in Los An geles but they returned for the holidays and stopped by for a dinner and a sweet treat only to make the same discovery that O’Keefe had made moments earlier.

“When I was a boy, I would come here all the time but I used to work at the one at the Ocean County Mall a long time

ago,” Walker told The Toms River Times

“We are back for the holidays and he just got Lasik eye surgery and we want ed to enjoy a Friendly’s. We wanted to come yesterday but his eye still hurt,” Lederman said.

“We just missed it,” Walker said in disappointment.

“We wanted to get some ice cream. I wanted a little cone hat,” she said.

“Some waffle fries too,” Walker added.

Lederman added, “I wanted a fried clam sandwich. They used to have those. We’re sad but we’re glad the one on Hooper Avenue is still open. We’re going there now.”

In years past a family could enjoy a shopping spree at Toys R’ Us across from the Ocean County Mall on Hooper Avenue and then drive or walk a short distance to Friendly’s in the same plaza.

That standalone Friendly’s is still oper ating, unlike the Toys R’ Us that closed its doors a few years ago. There was also a Main Street Toms River location but that was sold years ago and currently houses Shut Up and Eat, a restaurant where customers are encouraged to show up in their pajamas for a breakfast discount.

In a year where Ocean County residents have noted the closure of fixtures like the AMC movie theater at the Seacourt Pavilion and the shutdown of Joe Joe’s Hotdogs on Route 37 which was replaced by Chomps that closed in less than a year, this closure is another blow to those who enjoyed some signature eateries and en tertainment attractions in the area.

According to their corporate website, Friendly’s only has 13 remaining loca tions in the state although one in Voor hees is classified as being temporarily closed while a Marlton location which reportedly closed in August, is still listed as being open.

The closures occurred after the chain filed for bankruptcy protection on sev eral locations - most of which occurred in 2020. At that time managers faced the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and the loss of many of their employees.

According to Fox Business, the chain was bought in January of 2021 by Amici Partners Group which added a “Sweet Rewards” program and new menu items to entice customers back and to improve business. JB Restaurant Partners how ever owns several of the area Friendly’s restaurants including the one that just closed.

It was reported that employees only learned of the closure on November 21. Management present at the site would not confirm or deny that situation when

they spoke to The Toms River Times Management did however provide the phone number to Friendly’s corporate office which connected to JB Restaurant Partners.

JB Restaurant Partners representative Joe Vitrano was contacted for a comment by The Toms River Times but at press time no response had been made.

The restaurant chain was founded in Springfield more than 80 years ago and in cludes 130 corporate-owned and franchised locations.

Friendly’s ice cream products are also sold in super markets. The company also has an

ice cream plant based in Wilbraham, Mass. which is now owned by the co-operative Dairy Farmers of America

Like many restaurants, during the pandem ic, the now shuttered Toms River location on Route 37 had to close its interior restau rant for months but sold food and ice cream from the lobby area. That became a popular dessert stop for pickup orders.

The restaurant interior dining room eventually reopened for sit down meals. It also featured popular costumed characters each week prior to the pandemic for the enjoyment of children. Their presence was advertised on a marquee sign in front of the store and during the holidays, Santa Claus and other holiday characters were also known to stop by.

Across 1 One may be plant ed on a cheek

5

One who gets fa mous just for kicks?

Volunteer’s words

Use sound to get around

Large volume

Reaction that can be grateful or sarcastic

Call from a brooder

Getting better

Arrive by car, say

Perception

Make a typo ... or miss one

Surprising sound

Setting of van Gogh’s “CafŽ Ter race at Night”

Stop shooting

Let the air out of

Area where

37 Activity

cube user

2

Film genre for Shy amalan’s “The Hap pening”

Competitor who’s over the hump?

Prepare to talk to a tyke, maybe

Prepared 6 Figure eight, in tango parlance

Harry Potter love interest Cho __

Independent __

South Bend suburb

Larva that attacks Valentine’s Day plants

Ran playfully

Fabulist’s work

Buckets or barrels

Out of a job, per haps?: Abbr. 20 Trivia site 23 __ fly

Arena for the stars

Annual corona

(c)2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC. skateboarding likely originated,

49

Croquetas or car acoles

Microsoft co-founder Allen

Intangible qual ity

Norm-challeng ing

Role in the Mon teverdi opera “The Coronation of Pop paea”

Big-screen TV site

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Sometimes we just have to dig down into our reserves and make it happen. You may need to exert extra effort to meet deadlines as the week begins. Your sincerity and commitment to excellence should be noticed.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Someone you think of as a friend may want more than that. It might be better to wait until a few more days pass to focus on romance. In the upcom ing week, concentrate on making money to take home the winnings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your ideas can work if you do things more efficiently. When you remain fully transparent, you never have to worry about talking your way out of having put a spin on the facts. A partner could set a shining example of excellence.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Make lists and stay organized so everything gets remembered and gets done. If you fulfill all of your obligations and honor your commitments, you can enjoy some personal time to relax and reboot without guilt.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the upcoming week you could decide to follow through on a lifelong dream. Create a new you by selecting qualities to emulate from the people you admire. Adopting a winning mindset and making strong choices can take you far.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Come to terms with a partner or friend. It takes two to make problems and it takes two to solve them. In the week ahead, you may have an ideal opportunity to negotiate an agreeable compromise or iron out differences.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): The longer you live, the more opportunities you have to learn. It would be wise to be skeptical of facts early this week. The spotlight may be on those in close connection, so it is up to you to gracefully accept waiting in the wings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23- Nov. 21): Where there is a will, there’s a way. Your determina tion to succeed, especially when working in a partnership, can give you an added edge in any undertaking. Watch out for ways to save money in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You might be given a starring role in a creative project or other activity. Confusing conversations could be difficult to sort out now. It makes sense to be prepared for extra bills in the coming week.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may have blinders on because your attention is riveted on your work or a key project. A partner or loved one might provide the common sense you need to hear to finalize a decision as the week unfolds.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A frosty mood could quickly melt away when warmth is applied. A few thoughtful and sincere words can change someone’s attitude toward you. Keep working diligently in the week ahead to complete a creative project.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Give your self plenty of time to find the right response; don’t impulsively take action over what is probably just a misunderstanding. Take what ever you are offered in the week ahead and you should be content with it.

LOOKING FOR A LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY MENU ADDITION? THIS IS THE EASIEST SIDE DISH TO MAKE

By America’s Test Kitchen

CHIVE SOUR CREAM

In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 table spoon minced fresh chives, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. For extra zing, stir in 1 minced garlic clove.

GARAM MASALA YOGURT

In a small bowl, stir togeth er 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garam masala, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.

ROASTED FINGERLING POTATOES Serves 4 to 6

2 pounds fingerling or small red potatoes, cut in half lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra- virgin

olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Adjust oven rack to lowest position and heat oven to 450 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parch ment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, oil, salt, and pep per. Use your hands to toss potatoes and coat evenly with oil and seasonings.

3. Transfer potatoes to the baking sheet. Turn each potato cut side down and spread potatoes into a sin gle layer. Bake until skins are wrinkled and spotty brown, 30 to 35 minutes.

4. Place baking sheet on cooling rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve.

(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 DEC 3 - DEC 9

Jeraldine Saunders

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.