2022-12-03 - The Howell Times

NFL’s Ray Lucas Tells Student Athletes About His Struggles With Addiction

By Stephanie Faughnan

HOWELL – New Jersey’s own football legend, Ray Lucas, was in town last month to tackle the hard-hitting subject of getting hooked on drugs – and the path to his recovery.

An NFL veteran who scored big with the New England Patriots, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins and Baltimore Ravens, Lucas also made Rutgers Scarlet Knights history as a star quarterback.

An audience of 700 Howell High School student athletes sat captivated as Lucas delivered a firsthand testimonial of how he developed an opioid addiction to deal with multiple football injuries.

If ever there was a time for local teenagers to benefit from the words of a sports icon, this was the one. Opioid addiction is still rampant and many cases

(Addiction - See Page 2)

Food Drive Fills Truck

Volunteers, Civic Groups And Businesses Answer e Call

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – Lots and lots of groceries 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 outside. It was part of the WJRZ Share The Joy collection of food, toys and supplies for Fulfill, 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 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 (Food Drive - See Page 3)

Students, Staff Lauded For Volunteering

By Alyssa Riccardi

HOWELL – Students and staff from the Howell Township School District were recognized at the recent Board of Education meeting for their hard work volunteering with the nonprofit foundation Dylan’s Wings for Change.

Dylan’s Wings for Change is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to the memory of Dylan Hockley, one of the fi rst grade victims of the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012.

Their message is: “We are guided by the ‘Butterfly Effect,’ how just small changes can accumulate with massive effect... the flap of a butterfly’s wings might cause a hurricane.”

“Dylan’s Wings for Change has been a program we’ve been working with for a little while now and it is really taking hold. (The) enormous sense of pride around the work that our staff, along with our student leaders, have accomplished over nearly two years has been absolutely remarkable,” Superintendent of Schools Joseph Isola said.

The district began a partnership with Dylan’s Wings for Change in January of 2020. At that time, district staff and students from both Howell Middle Schools North and South had the opportunity to hear a very unique presentation by Ian Hockley, Dylan’s father and the Founder of Dylan’s Wings for Change.

Although the pandemic forced this partnership to be put on hold, the district renewed its commitment and continued to fi nd ways to partner with Hockley and Dylan’s Wings for Change.

At the November 16 Board of Education meeting, Director of Pupil Services Dorothea Fernandez introduced the program before certificates were handed out to the volunteers.

“We’re proud to say we have six trainers, three in each middle school, who received specific training to lead a cohort of youth leaders to become facilitators able to conduct peer led, experimental educational activities that inspire empathy, courage and connection,” Fernandez said.

She went on to discuss some of the work the volunteers did this year and the difference they’re making each day.

(Volunteering - See Page 3)

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Former NFL player and Rutgers star quarterback Ray Lucas tackled the hard-hitting subject of getting hooked on drugs – and the path to his recovery as he met with Howell student athletes.

Addiction:

Continued From Page 1

start from painkillers given after injuries.

Lucas described himself as the “big fish” in Harrison High School, where he now coaches his hometown team. A triple-threat athlete in football, basketball and baseball, Lucas said he didn’t plan to let anything stop him from making it in the sports arena.

Red-shirted as a freshman by the Scarlet

Knights, Lucas recalled when the Rutgers coach put him in the game because the opposing team had a bounty on one of the other players. Miami’s Warren Sapp would later make it into the NFL as well.

“Warren Sapp picks me up from behind and drives me to the ground,” shared Lucas.

“It tears my rotator cuff, completely off the ball, and broke my collarbone all in the same play.”

Despite the extent of his injury, Lucas

returned to the huddle after he heard Sapp “talking crap” about him. He threw the ball as hard as he could for the next play before he tapped his head signaling he needed to get out of the game.

The doctors back then didn’t prescribe Lucas opioids to deal with his pain. The rising star football legend only had Motrin to make it through as he played the next two games with the torn rotator cuff on his throwing shoulder.

Howell High School football players sat in the front row as Lucas went on to describe his fi rst meeting with Bill Parcells, then head coach of the New England Patriots. Everyone wanted to hear how a guy from a small town in Hudson County made it to the big league.

Lucas ultimately fast-forwarded at the place where drugs came into his life.

“As a quarterback, you’re going to be put in situations where you have to absorb the hit and still deliver the ball,” Lucas said. “I was cool with that, although at times it’s not really cool.”

By the time Lucas was in his third year with the Dolphins, he suffered a severe back injury with two herniated discs inverted on his sciatic nerve. Lucas learned he had two options, with the fi rst being surgery and out of the game for good.

The second was one Lucas went with because he was doing what he loved most in life as an NFL professional. He decided on rehabilitation therapy, even though he knew if he got hit hard enough, he could become paralyzed.

As he reflected back, Lucas said it sounded nuts to him that he risked the latter. He’s married to his high school sweetheart and has three beautiful daughters, and the threat was one of life-changing proportions.

“So, I played with it,” shared Lucas. “I started taking pills, but I wasn’t addicted.”

It wasn’t a field injury that ultimately did Lucas in. When he sneezed at practice, he suddenly lost all feeling from the waist down.

After he was released from extensive back surgery, doctors sent Lucas home with 125 milligrams of Roxicodone opioid pain pills. Lucas said the initial effects scared him and he stopped them. His wife called the doctor after he was on the floor shivering for three days. Withdrawal had taken over.

Lucas retired from his football career and went on to work in New York City as an executive. However, he’d also hurt his neck in the game to the point his arms started to flare. His spinal column narrowed to about half its size and Lucas said his neck was collapsing.

“After playing with the NFL for eight years, I was left with all these injuries,” shared Lucas. “After five years, the NFL doesn’t give you insurance and to get covered by my own insurance company would have cost me $1 million.”

(Addiction - See Page 4)

“On their day off, student leaders came back to school and successfully facilitated breakout sessions for all of our district staff members. Additionally, we had six student leaders travel to Atlantic City and facilitate an action lab session at the New Jersey School Board Convention,” Fernandez said. “We are extremely proud of the work this group has done and where they have come in a short period of time. We’re extremely

excited to see the continued growth of this program,” she added.

Pupil Services Supervisor Kristin Kadir then took the podium and was recognized for organizing all the events and training.

“Our Wingman staff has gone above and beyond in supporting this program to be successful,” Kadir said.

Kadir went on the call up each individual wingman staff as well as the additional staff and students, and gave out certificates. Student leaders were also introduced and recognized for their hard work.

Food Drive:

Continued From Page 1

everyone loves shopping for toys.

Now, the effects of COVID are still lingering 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 callouts over the air. If something specific was needed, all they had to do was make mention of it between 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 donations. 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 donations, 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.

Le ers From Santa

Breakfast With Santa

HOWELL – Adelphia Fire Company will hold Breakfast with Santa on December 11 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. All you can eat.

Carry out available. Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for children. Adelphia Firehouse is located at 925 Adelphia Road.

HOWELL – The Township of Howell will be forwarding letters addressed to Santa postmarked November 14 to December 9.

Send to: Township of Howell C/O Santa

Claus 4567 Highway 9 North, 2nd FL Howell, NJ 07731.

Please remember to include a return address. For more information, call 732938-4500 ext. 2106.

–Photo courtesy Howell Township School District Dylan’s Wingman students and

honored for volunteering their time.

Addiction: Continued From Page 2

When Lucas consulted with the doctor, he learned surgical intervention would run about $500,000. The alternative was giving Lucas pills to handle the pain.

Lucas said he didn’t have an addiction when he left the NFL and determined he had a high tolerance to the medications. After the problem with his neck, the retired professional athlete was up to 1,600 pills a month.

“I could have killed the fi rst seven rows of this audience in one day with the intake at that stage,” Lucas admitted. “When you take that many pills, the mental health starts coming in with depression and doubt.”

By that point, the sports icon had lost all control and swallowed $350,000 worth of the money he earned as an NFL player. Lucas said he’d become a full-blown addict – and submitted he’s still one to this day –despite being clean.

Things got so bad that Lucas plotted jumping off the George Washington Bridge. He called a place for help and told them he was considering suicide. The responding agency apologized as they informed the desperate man they were in the fundraising stage.

A doctor friend recommended that Lucas go see a physician who was helping former NFL players. An EKG revealed that his heart had doubled in size and Lucas was lucky not to have a heart attack.

“For the fi rst time. and in the longest time in my life I prayed,” Lucas said. “I asked God to help me.”

The answer to his prayers came delivered by the love of his life. Lucas said his wife

packed him a bag to send him to rehab. Lucas fought every step of the way before he made it to where he is now.

As he looked at the hundreds of young athletes before him, Lucas encouraged them to watch out for themselves and their friends even if it came to just assisting them to fi nd help.

“Injuries happen in high school sports so make sure to ask the questions about what you are being prescribed for pain and ask for help if you need it,” said Lucas. “Addiction does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone at any time.”

Lucas informed the group that after 30 surgeries he’s learned that there’s things like nerve blocks that help the pain as an alternative to pain meds.

“If you can’t deal with the pain after that, you shouldn’t be in this room,” summed up Lucas. “You’re all athletes. We’re different. That’s okay; that’s a good thing.”

At the conclusion of his talk, students were given the opportunity to ask questions. Some appeared more interested in the star athlete’s rise to professional fame. Others grasped for more answers about the perils of addiction.

It’s game on for Lucas as he continues to educate and lead young athletes in the right direction.

The event at Howell High School was part of the Knock Out Opioid Abuse initiative, a program created by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, in collaboration with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association. It was the sixth of 10 events to be held for high school students through the 2022-23 school year.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Seven hundred student athletes, including a first row of the district’s football team were captivated by the Lucas presentation.

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

Here’s How To Shop Local is Holiday Season

From The Desk Of The

Commissioner Director

Thomas A. Arnone

My fellow Commissioners and I would like to encourage residents to go out and support local businesses and restaurants throughout the holidays. We have an incredible small business community with a variety of services and products available, so take this day as an opportunity to visit and support them.

We are proud to assist small businesses through events such as the Holiday Made in Monmouth which will be held in December.

The Holiday 2022 Made in Monmouth will be held on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Robert J. Collins Arena. This will be another fantastic way for the community to come out and support our local businesses for the holiday season.

If are you looking for agriculture-based items such as Christmas trees or produce grown locally, there is the Grown in Monmouth program. Residents can visit the

Grown in Monmouth online portal to fi nd local Christmas tree farms, restaurants, wineries/breweries, garden centers and more. The Grown in Monmouth program has been designed for Monmouth County growers to help maintain and promote the county’s agriculture industry.

My fellow Commissioners and I also recently launched our latest program, “Brewed & Distilled in Monmouth” as a way to promote the County’s breweries, distilleries and wineries. Patrons who may be interested in exploring our breweries, wineries and distilleries can go to BrewedandDistilledinMonmouth.com to learn more about all of the establishments throughout the county as well as local

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

restaurants and points of interest in the surrounding areas. This is another great way to support our small business community. Switching gears, I would like to mention that our Department of Public Works and Engineering is gearing up for another winter season and potential storms. By preparing now, and over the last few weeks, we are making sure we are ready for whatever comes our way. As always, our main priority is the safety of our residents and those who travel through the county. As liaison to this department, I personally can say how proud I am to have such an excellent team of dedicated employees who work hard to keep all of us safe during inclement weather.

Capitol Comments

Capitol Comments

JERSEY CITY – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) announced a combined total $126,278,315.30 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding to reimburse public agencies and several hospitals across New Jersey for expenses incurred during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The early days of the pandemic proved

challenging for hospitals across the country as they dealt with a spike in additional patients, less staff, and strapped resources,” said Sen. Menendez. “But our hospitals throughout New Jersey faced the challenge head-on, ensuring their patients 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 continue fighting to secure the resources they need to protect public health.”

The following hospitals and agencies received 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 University.

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 yearslong 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.

Senator Robert Menendez

Senator Cory Booker

Town Seeking Volunteers For 2023 Boards, Commi ees And Commission

HOWELL – The Township Council is seeking interested citizens to volunteer and serve on the various boards, commissions, committees and representative/liaison appointments for the year 2023. Vacancies will exist on the following:

Municipal Alliance: meets 3rd Tuesday at 12:30 p.m.

Environmental Commission: meets 2nd Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Farmers Advisory Committee: meets 4th Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

Lake Restoration & Wildlife Management Committee: meets 3rd Thursday every other month at 10 a.m.

Mobile Home Rent Stabilization & Control Board: meets 2nd Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Municipal Green Team: meets Last Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Planning Board: meets 1st & 3rd Thursday at 7 p.m.

Preservation Task Force: meets 1st Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Senior Citizens Advisory Council: meets 2nd Tuesday every other month at 10 a.m.

Shade Tree Commission: meets 3rd Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Zoning Board of Adjustment: meets 2nd & 4th Monday at 7:30 p.m.

Representative/Liaison Appointment: Metedeconk Watershed Implementation Committee Representative

If you are interested in serving on a board, commission, committee, or representative/ liaison appointment, please submit an application to the Municipal Clerk’s Office by December 15 as follows: go to the Township website: twp.howell.nj.us, click on Applications & Forms; under Clerk’s Office, choose either the Application for Appointment to Fill Out and Print or the Application for Appointment for Online Submission.

Statement of Purpose for each Board, Commission, and Committee may be found on the Howell Township Website, twp.howell.mi.us. Applications will also be available in the Township Clerk’s Office, 4567 Route 9, Howell. If you have any questions, call 732-938-4500. Ext. 2155 or 2000.

HOWELL – Dig out your holiday lights, blowups, reindeer and decorations because the newest Howell tradition is about to start. Decorate your home and yard in the most creative or festive way possible. Fill out the information form, include a picture and e-mail it to sfecher@twp.howell.nj.us.

Participants agree to have photos of their

exteriors posted on Howell Township’s website, Facebook and/or posted in local media. Deadline to enter is December 7. Voting committee and residents will be touring from December 9 to 18.

Sponsored by Certified Auto Mall. For more information call 732-9384500 ext. 2106.

Pancake Breakfast With Santa

HOWELL – Ramtown Firehouse will be having Breakfast with Santa on December 11 from 8 to 11 a.m. Cost is $10 free adults and $5 for children under 12 years old. Children

old 3 years old is free. Free photo with Santa with every breakfast. For reservation, text Pete Realmuto at 973-420-0437. Walk-ins welcome, but advanced notice is appreciated.

Fourth Grade Artistic Showcase

MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is calling on creative fourth graders to test their artistic skills for its annual Fourth Grade Folder Contest for the 2022-2023 school year. Each year PDFNJ challenges fourth grade students throughout New Jersey to create anti-drug artwork related to the theme “Fun Things to do Instead of Drugs”, with the winning artwork to be reproduced as a school folder distributed to classrooms throughout the state.

Last year’s contest drew nearly 3,000 submissions, with 33 fi nalists selected and two grand prize winners chosen to have their artwork featured on the 40,000 folders. Adelaide Connor and Allison Wells of Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Neptune

City; Carleigh Fenlon of Manasquan Elementary School in Manasquan, and Skyelyn Stutesman of Spring Lake Heights Elementary School in Spring Lake Heights were selected as finalists in the competition.

“The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s school-based programs like the Fourth Grade Folder Contest are an effective way to actively engage today’s youth in choosing and maintaining a drug-free healthy lifestyle,” state Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ. “This peerto-peer substance use prevention artwork is an impactful way to combat peer pressure and for students to creatively share what a healthy lifestyle means to them.”

The Fourth Grade Folder Contest is accepting submission until December 7.

Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremony

HOWELL – The Township of Howell presents their Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony on December 11 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at Alfred C. Sauer Park at Echo Lake. Free event. Visit with Santa, Mrs. Clause and Elf. Enjoy hot drinks and cookies, games, petting zoo, gingerbread slide. Entertainment by Howell High School and

Memorial School Chorus. No parking will be available at Alfred C. Sauer Park at Echo Lake for this ceremony. Shuttle buses will be available at the Howell Commons Shopping Plaza (closets to Old Navy). Rain date is December 17. For more information contact 732-938-4500 ext. 2102 or 2106.

HOWELL – Drop off on December 9 at Alfred C. Sauer Park at Echo Lake from 12 to 4 p.m. Judging will take place online by Facebook likes and a ballot box at the Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremony on December 11. Three age group

categories: 10 & under; 11 to 17 years old; 18 and older.

Rain date is December 17. Winner will be announced on December 12 (rain date December 19). For more information, call 732-938-4500 ext. 2102.

WE’RE HIRING

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NutraStar, your local trusted contract manufacturer of nutraceutical brands is hiring. Currently recruiting for a variety of positions in Manufacturing and Administration. Scan QR code and apply.

HOWELL – Come out for local foods, shopping, and live music! The Howell Farmers Market Winter Edition will be on December 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1205 Maxim Southard Road, Howell. COME

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

State Senate Con rms New Monmouth County Prosecutor

deep awe and respect, both for the long and storied history of this Office, and for the dedication and tenacity exhibited by the several hundred individuals who every day continue to support its overarching goal of serving the interests of justice.”

The prosecutor is the county’s chief law enforcement officer. His duties include coordinating the efforts of nearly four dozen municipal police departments and two college police departments as well as managing the prosecutor’s staff of about 280.

Santiago, 48, was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in Brooklyn. He graduated from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 1996 and received his law degree from the City University of New York School of Law at Queens College in 1999.

By Alyssa Riccardi

MONMOUTH COUNTY – After a unanimous vote, the New Jersey State Senate has officially confirmed Raymond S. Santiago as Monmouth County’s 30th prosecutor.

Santiago has been serving as acting prosecutor since October 7, replacing former acting Prosecutor Lori Linskey. Santiago is set to serve a five-year term.

“Today’s confirmation is as much a collective achievement as a personal one – and I cannot thank enough the innumerable individuals who steadfastly supported the fulfillment of a dream I have nurtured for the better part of my career,” Santiago said. “I assume this role with a genuine sense of

Previously, he served as an assistant district attorney at the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office in New York. Afterwards, he entered private practice. Recently, he headed the Freehold-based Law Offices of Santiago & Associates, which focuses on criminal and immigration law.

Santiago has lived and worked in Monmouth County for over 20 years. He has served as a pool attorney for the New Jersey Public Defender’s Office since 2002, assisting indigent defendants with their criminal cases.

Santiago has become the second Prosecutor of Hispanic descent in the history of the Office. The first was Luis A. Valentin who served from 2005 to 2011.

Trip To e Radio City Christmas Spectacular

MONMOUTH COUNTY – Get into the spirit of the holidays by joining the Monmouth County Park System on a bus trip to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in New York City on December 9. This unforgettable show features the high steppin’ Rockettes, a living nativity, and so much more!

The bus leaves from Thompson Park,

Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, at 1 p.m. and will return at approximately 10 p.m. The cost is $175 per person and includes orchestra seating, bus transportation, and Park System leader.

Pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000, ext. 1.

–Photo courtesy Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office

P OLICE B LOTTER

Monmouth County Man Arrested A er Robbery Stando

By Alyssa Riccardi

NEPTUNE – A man has been arrested and charged after a lengthy standoff with police after allegedly robbing a local pharmacy.

Jeff rey V. Migliore, 34, of Ocean Township was charged with fi rst-degree Armed Robbery and three related weapons offenses.

Around 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 16, authorities responded to a pharmacy at 1200 Corlies Avenue for a report of a robbery. Police learned that a man, who was later identified as Migliore, had entered the store, brandished a handgun, demanded cash from the store clerk, and made off with hundreds of dollars.

Officers tracked Migliore to a home on 11th Avenue in Neptune Township where he initially refused several orders to surrender to police. As a result, neighboring homes and properties were evacuated for safety reasons.

Several law enforcement agencies responded to the scene and established a perimeter around the home. Lengthy negotiations were made with Migliore who surrendered peacefully shortly after 10:30 p.m. A handgun was also recovered at the scene, officials said. He faces anywhere between 10 to 20 years in state prison for the fi rst-degree criminal charges.

“That this extraordinarily delicate and complicated situation was resolved with no injuries or loss of life to any civilians or members of law enforcement was no ac-

cident – it was the result of very carefully planned, coordinated, and well-executed actions of dozens upon dozens of members of local, county, and state agencies, all working closely together in close quarters and under tremendous pressure,” Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago said. “This outcome is a testament to the quality of their efforts.”

“The manner in which the local, county and state law-enforcement community worked together to resolve a tenuous situation peacefully speaks volumes in our ability to collaborate,” Neptune Township Police Chief Larry B. Fisher added. “The professionalism of all agencies involved cannot be more appreciated.”

This incident remains under joint investigation by members of MCPO and the Neptune Township Police Department, and anyone with information about Migliore’s activities is being urged to contact Neptune Township Police Department Detective Robert Hagerman at 732-9888000 ext. 419.

Anyone who prefers to remain anonymous but has information about this or any crime can submit a tip to Monmouth County Crime Stoppers by calling their confidential telephone tip-line at 1-800-671-4400; by downloading and using the free P3 Tips mobile app ( p3tips.com/1182), by calling 800-671-4400; or by going to the website at monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com.

By Alyssa Riccardi

MONMOUTH COUNTY – A former administrative manager of a carpenters’ union pension fund has been sentenced to six months of home confi nement and three years of probation for embezzling roughly $140,000 and making false reports to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), state officials said.

George R. Laufenberg, 72, of Wall Township, previously pleaded guilty to two counts of an indictment charging him with embezzling about $140,000 in pension benefits and making false statements to the DOL.

Laufenberg was the administrative manager of the Northeast Carpenters Pension Fund, which was subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). According to officials, he was a fiduciary and participant in the pension fund.

Laufenberg admitted stealing $140,000

Cha rges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law. that was paid to him under a deferred compensation agreement to which he was not entitled, officials said. In addition, he admitted to making false statements in a form required under ERISA that he filed to the Department of Labor on behalf of the pension fund.

In addition to the sentencing, Laufenberg was fi ned $20,000 and is debarred from any future association with a union or benefit plan.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the DOL Employee Benefit Security Administration, under the supervision of Thomas Licetti, Regional Director; special agents of the DOL Office of the Inspector General, under the supervision of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone; and agents of the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey, under the supervision of Inspector General John Gay, with the investigation.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Monmouth Civic Chorus Presents Joy To e World

RED BANK – The award-winning Monmouth Civic Chorus presents Joy to the World: Your Favorites from Handel’s Messiah and the RJB Holiday Suite on December 18, at 3 p.m. The highly acclaimed annual performance of Artistic Director Dr. Ryan James Brandau’s Suite is Monmouth County’s can’t-miss musical event of the holiday season.

This year’s program will feature your favorite selections from Handel’s Messiah and Bach’s Mass in B minor, masterfully intertwined with stirring original settings of holiday classics like Silent Night, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, and Auld Lang Syne.

The chorus of more than 80 voices will be joined by full professional orchestra

composed of some of the country’s most in-demand musicians, and celebrated guest soloist soprano Claire Leyden.

The performance will take place at the historic Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ. Tickets for premium seating are $50 adult, $40 senior, $35 group (10 or more), $20 student; and for regular seating are $35 adult, $32 senior, $30 group, $15 student.

All singers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Count Basie Center for the Arts no longer requires audience members to show proof of vaccination. Masking is encouraged, but not required. Tickets and information are available at monmouthcivicchorus.org or 732-933-9333.

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

TOMS RIVER – Join Quantum Behavioral Health Services every last Wednesday of the month for informative discussions surrounding the role of family in addiction recovery. They will discuss things like boundaries, rebuilding trust, and repairing relationships.

Meetings are in person at their facility 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.

• Have the ability to live at home or live in a sober home with the ability to see your friends and family • Get the help you need without having to sacrifice your career, drop out of school, or miss out on important obligations

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

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 fi rst 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 attorney 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 encroachments 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-

one who, in the future, challenges the accuracy of the property lines. If you do not have an accurate and current survey prior to closing 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 increase the cost of the survey. These markers 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 fi rm 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

Marc S. Galella Esq.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

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, Amalaki, 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 symptoms 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.

Potential Uses for Triphala

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 methods 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-inflammatory 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.

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

Jackson - House For Sale By Own

er. Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres.

2 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths, unfinished full basement, 1 car attached ga rage, baseboard heat. For sale as is $489,000. 732-691-9845. (1)

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)

week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word =

weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word =

e Comings And Goings Of Hibernating And Migrating Species

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, raccoons, and skunks don’t hibernate. They will remain here doing their best to survive through the colder months. Chipmunks will enter a restless hibernation 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 fi nches, titmice, woodpeckers, cardinals, and blue jays.

Feeding during the colder months - please do not feed ANY human food. Human food does not provide daily requirements (and then what’s the point?) and can be dangerous and sometimes fatal. Instead consult your local regulations 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.

Renee

One who gets famous just for kicks?

15 Volunteer’s words

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Getting better

Failed to uphold

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tion event 31 Impressive displays 33 Rest for a bit 34 Transport service for the disabled 36 Much less 39 Armageddons 41 Lose it 42 See 47-Across

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It forms igneous rock

Microsoft co-founder Allen

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Norm-challenging

Role in the Monteverdi opera “The Coronation of Poppaea”

Big-screen TV site

BUSINESS PROFILE

Give Care Temp Heating And Air Conditioning A Call Now And They’ll Get Back To You Before You Even

Finish Reading This Article

Care Temp (Mas ter HVACR Lic #: 19HC00852400

By Michael Vandenberg

It’s the middle of February and it’s 15 degrees outside. A blizzard is forecast for later in the week. You’re at home, watching TV on the couch late at night, thinking about heading to bed. All of a sudden, you hear a weird noise coming from the fur nace room. You get up and go investigate, but everything looks okay from the outside at least. Before you know it, you can see your breath and it’s starting to get chilly, even though your thermostat is set at a cozy room temperature. Your heat’s broken. But it’s 11:00 at night, what are you going to do? Easy! Call Care Temp: they’ll get back to you in seven minutes or less and try and do whatever it takes to keep you warm.

“They tell us that as soon as they turn around to walk into another room, the phone is already ringing,” Jennifer Paprocky, manager at Care Temp, LLC, told me. Indeed the HVAC contractor based in Toms River prides itself on being able to help with all of your home gas heating and central air conditioning repair quickly, generously, and ef fectively. It’s no wonder they maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

and NJ HIC #: 13VH02253000) has been based right here in Ocean County since its founding 28 years ago this winter. In 2006, Jen was hired for the summer to help transition the company to elec tronic record keep ing and establish their website. After a couple months, she was hired into her current managerial position. From the office, she has the tough job of coordi nating Care Temp’s 15 certified and technically crosstrained employees on service calls, installations, and routine maintenance ap pointments all over the county and beyond.

Even when you factor in Care Temp’s 24/7 emergen cy service, technicians are scheduled flawlessly fast. While waiting for your instal lation during the wintertime, Care Temp will install strip heaters to keep you warm in the meantime. Jen doesn’t want you, “sitting there in the cold, especially in the winter time when your pipes could freeze. And that way you don’t have to go to a hotel or

a neighbor’s house; you can still be in the comfort of your own home.”

Likewise, if your central air breaks down during a July heat wave, Care Temp will happily hook up a window unit to keep you cool. “That way at least the customer goes into their bedroom or living room and has temporary relief while we’re installing it.” Or, if need be, you can make it through the night to the next day.

Treating people well like this results in customer loyalty. One person (whom we’ll call Sally) was originally referred

to Care Temp for an estimate on an air conditioning instal lation. One day, in the midst of the project, Jen needed to drop off a part. When she got to the house, Sally invited her inside for an iced tea. Jen remembers Sally telling her that, “we were the company she was looking for because we’re very personal and truly cared”. Sally went on to thank her that they were there right away and was very happy that she offered her a temporary window unit while the instal lation was going on.

Sally ended up getting a

maintenance contract with Care Temp that she renewed every year, even after she stopped living in the house fulltime. “Whenever she’d call she would tell stories, and she would tell her friends to call and ask for me. She was just a wonderful lady that constantly recommended us and trusted us.” Even further, Sally greatly appreciated that the technicians really took the time to explain everything to her and answer any questions with a smile.

For the people at Care Temp, being kind is just the right thing to do. “I can honestly say that I love what I do,” Jen said. “I like dealing with the customers, scheduling, and finances.” It’s a positive attitude that is shared by the whole team there.

It’s time to put your heating and air conditioning needs in the hands of the friendly pro fessionals at Care Temp, LLC. Feel free to call 732-349-1448 or their local Manchester number 732-657-1000 today. You can also visit them online at caretemp.com or in person at 891 Route 37 West in Toms River.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By Jeraldine Saunders

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 upcoming 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 determination 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 yourself plenty of time to find the right response; don’t impulsively take action over what is probably just a misunderstanding. Take whatever 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

HIVE SOUR CREAM GARAM MASALA YOGURT ROASTED FINGERLING POTATOES

(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

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.