2022-12-10 - The Jackson Times

Times JACKSON

Jackson Rings In The Holiday Season With Tree Lighting Ceremony

School Board Seeks To Fill Vacancy

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – With the recent election of Scott Sargent to the Township Council, the search is on for his re placement on the Board of Education.

The Board is inviting residents to apply for appointment to a board seat that is available Dec. 21, following Sar gent’s resignation. He will be sworn into his new council position on January 3, 2023.

Jackson School Dis trict Business Admin istrator and Board Sec retary Michelle Rich ardson said the process for filling a vacancy like this differs from a typical school board election. The person appointed by the Board will take the oath of

office and become a full member of the Board on Dec. 21and will con tinue to serve in that position through the reorganization meeting in early January 2024.

This individualand anyone else in the community - will have the opportunity to cam paign for this seat in the election to be held on November 7, 2023, ac cording to the district. In order to be consid ered for this appoint ment, any interested party must submit a resume and cover let ter that outlines the reasons for wanting to be on the Board and the qualifications for being selected.

These materials can be mailed to the attention

(School - See Page 9)

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Town ship officials, families, members of the Jackson Liberty High School Choir, the Grinch, Ru

dolph the-red-nosed reindeer, Olaf of the snowman from the film “Frozen” and a certain red suited, white beard ed gentleman from the

North Pole were all part of the fun at this year’s Christmas Tree Light ing Ceremony.

While gray skies and rain were present

earlier in the day, the sun came out, the rain stopped and the 4:30 p.m. start of the event there was mild weather (Holiday - See Page 5)

Pathfinders Invite Eagle Scouts To Pitch Projects

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – You could say the Jackson Pathfinders are helping Eagle Scouts to soar.

Jackson Pathfinders Chairman Matt McCall told The Jackson Times recently that “what we do is invite potential Eagle Scout candidates

to walk our trails and come up with ideas and propose projects that they would like to complete.

“Several times, poten tial Eagle Scout candi dates have reached out to us and stated they did not currently have any ideas, but would

be willing to come to a Pathfinder meeting and listen to some of our suggestions,” he said.

McCall added, “either way, it is a win. We have an Eagle Scout project slated to take place in November that was the result of a Scout asking us for ideas. We

recommended replac ing a small walkway on the Silver Stream trail. The Scout thought that was something he could do, and presto, his proj ect was blessed.”

“As of now, the Path finders would like sev eral benches installed across a few of the

trails. We would like a boardwalk replaced, some more wooden crossings over wet ar eas built, as well as a few other projects,” McCall said.

The Jackson Path finders is a volunteer trail preservation group (Projects - See Page 9)

Author Pulls Back The Tapestry On Living A Religious Life With Illness

─Photo by Chris Lundy M. Rose Peluso hopes her book will help others learn to live with faith through hardship. to talk about, so M. Rose Peluso wrote a book about it.

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – Chron ic illness is something most people don’t want

(Author - See Page 4)

Photo by Bob Vosseller

The Grinch tries to steal some letters out of Santa’s mailbox while Olaf the snowman from “Frozen” watches in horror (or is he simply laughing at the Grinch’s attempt?) while Rudolph sits comfortably in Kris Kringle’s chair prior to his arrival at the Jackson Township Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.

Author: Continued From Page 1

Her book, “Behind The Tapestry,” is subtitled “My Discovery Of God’s Grace Amidst Chronic Pain And Loss.” It’s available in most online book mar kets. It chronicles a life dealing with serious issues while also working to become a nun. It’s a personal story but it appeals to a wider audience. She suffers widespread, chronic pain from pudendal neuropathy, named after the nerve that runs through the pelvic floor. “If you’re having a horri ble day, sitting is almost unbearable,” she said.

A chronic condition will take up a huge amount of your life. If you don’t have one, you just don’t understand how much it impacts everything. Lots of people don’t want to hear about ill ness, but Peluso won’t suffer in silence any longer.

She left her great job as a graphic de signer and entered the convent in 1999. It’s a long process to become a nun, as you move up through the stations. She became a sister in 2002. The disease struck in 2001, and she recalled that it was soon after the attacks on Septem ber 11. She was praying for the victims when the burning sensation began.

“I remember being in the chapel and seeing the Lord and the Blessed Sacrament and said ‘OK, Lord, what changed?’”

That question would take a long time to answer.

“It’s typical for people to go years without a diagnosis,” she explained. It’s often a process of elimination. One test after another would rule some thing out as the months drag on. “You look very healthy but you feel pain.”

She changed names and some details in the book to protect the sisters. That might be for the best. Some of them weren’t very supportive. She was told “You’re not praying enough.” They didn’t think she deserved special con siderations, such as a menthol seat to ease the pain.

Some, of course, were very support ive – but those weren’t the ones in roles of authority. The message was something that people with chronic conditions often face: “We don’t want to hear about it anymore.” She was encouraged to smile through it, even though her body made her want to cry.

“I had to suffer silently with my pain. It was more important to me to become a sister,” she said.

Peluso was born and raised Catholic, but religion wasn’t a huge part of her upbringing. “You went to church and you prayed when you wanted some thing like God was Santa Claus.” It wasn’t until a prayer meeting in the early 90s that unlocked the mission in her.

“I never felt like I fit in until I was called to religious life,” she said.

(Author - See Page 8)

─Photo by Chris Lundy

M. Rose Peluso took courses and read books on how to write in order to pen this memoir.

Members of the Recreation Department provided refreshments including hot choco late, popcorn, candy and other items. They also provided a trio of characters (the Grinch, Rudolph and Olaf) who came out to add to the festive atmosphere. The characters interacted with attendees - many of whom had their photos taken with them.

Rebecca Young of Jackson Liberty High School led the school’s choir that performed various holiday favorites including “Bethle hem,” “This Time of The Year,” “Bidi Bom,” “Deck The Halls” and “We Believe.”

Township residents Jesse and Bella Gardocki, Evan and Dani Cabell were enjoying visiting the spot where Santa would soon be passing out candy canes and listening to Christmas wish lists. A family member was singing in the choir which was another reason they stopped by.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony however wasn’t their only festive event within the community that day. “Afterward we’ll be heading over to the Jackson United Methodist Church which is right down the street,” Jackie Cabell said. She is Jesse and Bella’s aunt and Evan and Dani’s mom.

“They are doing a talent show where they will be singing and doing the play Elf. Jesse is playing the lead in Elf,” she added.

The event went off without a hitch with Mayor Michael Reina, Council President

Flemming and Councilmen Steven Chisholm and Nino Borrelli joining members of the Recreation Department, the Jackson Department of Public Works, Brandon Zapata and Cassville Station #56 who pulled in Santa Claus’s special sleigh from the back of their fire truck, possibly as far as the north pole itself.

Recreation Department Director Joeylynn Anderson introduced the mayor who greeted everyone and wished the community a very happy and healthy holiday season before he officially lit the tree. Several years ago, the township DPW created a large electric switch panel that was positioned on stage beside the choir. The large light switch panel is a unique fixture at the holiday event that joined many inflated decorations and Christmas lights

Martin

on Town Hall property for the occasion.

─Photo by Bob Vosseller

The Jackson Township Christmas tree is brightly lit.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

E ditorial

Time Is Never On Our Side

Big life moments al ways mark the passage of time. They make us stop us in the middle of our obligations and habits and say “oh, things are changing and they’re never gonna be the same.”

I had a few of them hap pen in quick succession recently. The first was a good one. My daugh ter went to her friend’s quinceañera. There were a group of girls who had been friends since kindergarten through Girl Scouts and now they were all in high school.

Next was my uncle’s death. Richie was a tall, strong, vigorous man who was always active and never slowed down. We used to call him Richie the whale (not a size thing) because he would swim back and forth beyond the breakers at the beach for long periods of time. This year, he descended quickly into dementia before a stroke put him in the hospital. My theory is that in the beginning of the year, when his mind started to decline, he also had a stroke that no one noticed. It makes sense but there’s nothing to be done about it either way.

Two people my age died within weeks of each other. One was a former co-worker whose obitu ary asked for donations to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alli ance. The other was a high school friend who had a skinny build but didn’t eat right or ex ercise. Heart attack in his 40s.

Unfortunately, it’s the bad life moments that make us reflect more. Maybe I’m just past the age of going to weddings and baby showers, and

death is the only life mo ment left. Is retirement a life moment? For those lucky enough to do so, I guess it is.

Life moments are usu ally followed by moti vation. I’m going to eat better. Exercise. Take up that hobby I’ve always meant to. No one comes home from a funeral and thinks “I’m going to spend more time on my phone.”

Obviously, we don’t know when our time is going to come. I don’t want to write this with the idea that you have to be maximally opera tional 110% of the time. I struggle with anxiety so I always have to tamp down any motivation or else I’m going to be buzzing around like a fly stuck in a car for the rest of the day.

The problem with mo tivation is that it comes with guilt if you don’t accomplish your goals. If you haven’t stuck to your New Year’s Reso lution by the time Feb ruary rolls around, you beat yourself up over it. After a few missed goals, you stop making any at all.

I have a friend who always tells me I need to waste more time. Play a video game for an hour. Watch a stupid movie. He’s right, of course. Is it possible to push yourself to relax? It seems an impossible goal, but one to strive for. Those life moments are going to hit you, whether you want them to or not. Might as well enjoy the ride.

Time isn’t on our side and it’s never going to let us win. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t play.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Rebuttal To “It’s Time To Stop Celebrating Columbus”

The following is a rebuttal to “It’s Time To Stop Cel ebrating Columbus” letter to the editor. The writer claimed Columbus doesn’t deserve a holiday or a pa rade, making a number of inaccurate statements to support his assertion. Like Columbus “didn’t ‘discover America.’ He was nowhere near America.” But that contradicts his acknowl edgement of Columbus’ landing in Central AMER ICA, South AMERICA and the Caribbean, which is part of America.

True: Columbus “never set foot on United States soil.” Neither did Amerigo Vespucci, whom Ameri ca’s name is derived from. Perhaps America’s name should be changed since he never reached the USA that bears his name. Not to mention Vespucci reached the continent a year after Columbus discovered it. And Vespucci reached it using Columbus’ own map. However, North America was reached because of Columbus. The reason is that Columbus sent his brother Bartholomew to the King of England, while he lobbied for his discovery project in Spain, to see who would give him the “green light” first, since other countries had rejected his proposal. Once the news

Letters To The Editor

of Columbus’ discovery reached England, the King sent John Cabot to explore North America. Later on, Juan Ponce de Leon, who was one of Columbus’ sail ors during his second voy age, discovered Florida, which is in the USA.

ALL the explorers and set tlers that followed, were not independent from Colum bus, but fully dependent on his initial discovery. That’s the reason why set tlers came to what later became the United States. All thanks to Columbus’ 1492 enterprise!

Next, the writer claimed Columbus “enslaved na tives, murdered and raped them. When they revolted, “he had them killed, dis membered and paraded their body parts through their villages.”

I think the writer is confus ing Columbus with the Car ibs. The Caribs were a tribe of cannibals who constantly raided the Taino tribes in the Caribbean. They raped the woman, castrated the young men, enslaved people, and sometimes cannibalized entire islands. Those were the ones Columbus sent to Spain as prisoners of war as he had made a treaty with a Taino chief to protect him from them and other enemies.

The writer added, “How can you say you care about history when you don’t even know the history?”

I agree!

If those are the reasons

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

The Jackson Times welcomes all points of view for pub lication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express them selves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

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

edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshore online.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessari ly reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

to not celebrate Columbus, then that’s more reason to celebrate him, since what was written originally to the editor against Columbus is false. The fact is, without 1492 there is no 1776. Hap py Columbus Day forever!

Rafael Ortiz

Note: The writer is of in digenous heritage who has authored books advocat ing for Columbus, such as “Christopher Columbus The Hero: Defending Co lumbus From Modern Day Revisionism” and three others.

your cameras. Every year you do a great job, along with our great media (Micro Media Publications, Asbury Park Press and USA Today).

Thanks also to the po lice department (Cops Are Tops), firemen and more. Our local schools are great. I enjoy being a VIP guest at all the high school gradua tions with VIP parking and seating, etc. and being read about to the students by the New Jersey Book which is stored in all the New Jersey schools. I also enjoyed ap pearing at all the proms and being a mascot for sports like football, wrestling and basketball - both female and male teams.

Thank You For Your Support Biden’s Border Policy

Wow, thank you, thank you to the greatest town in the world and the people in it from giving me a downtown birthday party from all the merchants and the love and kisses blown to me at the Toms River Halloween Pa rade along with the doctors, council, lawyers etc. who came over to my parade car to lift me on top (my other parade car became disabled so we hurriedly had a change and decorate the other car completely causing me to be late. But i made the parade and en joyed the blowing kisses in the cameras for TV 21, Youtube, etc.

Thank you for the great TV shots and photographer shots too! They enjoyed my “Wowie” signs. Thank you TV announcers, Matt Knight (my knight in shin ing armor) and Jimmy Steal (Super Steal Built) for your nice comments about me on the air. Thanks to the students and local design ers, Linda and Karen, for decorating my gown with feathers, 24 carat crystals, fringes, garters etc. to help celebrate my little can-can dance for the tradition al Toms River Halloween Parade which brings all of our wonderful community together.

Thank you TV 21 Phillys director for the great shots of me blowing kisses into

I salute all of you wonder ful people. You make our community the best in the world - not the second best, the very First best.

Happy holidays with love and respect.

Sondra Fortunato

Miss Liberty USA, etc, etc. Toms River

Some of my Republi can friends were posting on Facebook about how Biden’s border patrol wasn’t working, and the numbers they posted actually proved the opposite.

They listed a bunch of numbers of people on the FBI terror watch list that were arrested by the Border Patrol each year. In 2017, it was just 2. In 2018, it was 6. In 2019, it was a whopping 0. And in 2020 it was 3. These were all Trump years. Then, in 2021, it was 15. This year, I’m proud to say, that 98 people so far have been caught by Biden’s bor der security policies – and that’s just those who are on watch lists; it doesn’t count the total number of people detained.

So tell me, who was really tougher on terrorists?

Beverly Smith Penn Toms River

Is Working

S potlight o n g ov E rnm E nt

State Budget Dedicates $85M To New Jersey’s Six Largest Food Banks

hungry.”

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy joined members of his Administration, government officials, and advocates to highlight ongoing efforts to address food insecurity on behalf of families throughout New Jersey as part of the Governor’s commitment to making life more affordable for residents. Efforts to strengthen food security include the enactment of legislation, inclusion of funding in the State budget, and the creation of a first-in-the-nation Office of the Food Security Advocate. From its outset, the Murphy Administration has secured historic increases in fund ing for New Jersey food banks, includ ing an additional $65 million in Fiscal Year 2023 (FY2023). A total of $85 million was dedicated in the FY2023 budget to support the critical work of New Jersey’s six largest food banks.

“The holiday season is a poignant reminder of the many New Jersey families struggling to put food on the table every day,” said Governor Murphy. “As my Administration con tinues to pursue ways in which we can make life more affordable on behalf of New Jersey families, combating food insecurity will remain a critical part of those efforts. Alongside dedicated community and legislative partners, including food security champion Speaker Craig J. Coughlin, my Ad ministration remains committed to working to strengthen food security to ensure that no one in our state goes

The New Jersey De partment of Agriculture oversees the distribu tion of funding and pro vides support to food banks, in addition to administering various food and nutrition pro grams on behalf of residents.

When COVID-19 exacerbated food insecurity throughout the state, ad ditional assistance was provided to struggling families and the organiza tions supporting them.

Since the start of the pandemic, the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued nearly $1.3 billion through the Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) program, which helps families pur chase food for their children who are eligible for free or reduced price meals at school but missed meal(s) due to a COVID-19-related absence. These benefits are also available to families with children under the age of 6 who are eligible for the Supple mental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and attend child care but miss in-person care due to COVID-19.

DHS has also distributed nearly $2 billion in additional monthly SNAP payments to help low-income fami lies afford food and other essentials. New Jersey is the first state to set a SNAP minimum benefit of $50, which required an $18 million investment in State funds.

This year, DHS also forgave debt for certain families previously enrolled in public benefit programs, like SNAP, as consistent with federal rules. The intent of the initiative was to help ease the financial burden this debt posed for thousands of families and allow

them to achieve greater economic stability.

Additional pandemic-related as sistance includes the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA) Sustain and Serve NJ pro gram – which gives non-profits fund ing to purchase meals from restaurants recovering from the impacts of the pandemic in order to distribute those meals to people in their communities for free – thereby supporting both local businesses and residents in need of food assistance. So far, over 3.7 million meals have been purchased from over 440 different restaurants throughout the state.

The NJEDA has also created a Food Security Planning Grant Program to provide up to $125,000 to local gov ernments to create plans to transform abandoned/vacant properties in one of New Jersey’s 50 food deserts into a way to improve food security, such as through a new grocery store, urban agriculture, or some other project. Applications for this program have been extended to December 20, 2022. In partnership with the Legislature, the Governor has signed a number of bills to help combat food insecurity. Two bills signed in September 2022 will require schools to provide free breakfasts and lunches to students from working-class, middle-income

families and require school food au thorities to help make parents aware of existing and expanded school meal programs through public education campaigns.

The Governor also signed a compre hensive legislative package into law in September 2021 to expand access to the New Jersey Supplemental Nu trition Assistance Program (SNAP), raise awareness about SNAP benefits, bolster school meal programs, and establish the Office of the Food Inse curity Advocate. The ongoing mission of this office is to coordinate the administration of New Jersey’s food insecurity programs, advocate for in dividuals facing food insecurity, and develop new policy initiatives to help the State combat hunger and facilitate greater access to food relief programs.

“New Jersey’s food banks are so es sential in providing meals and critical support to food insecure residents in their time of need,” said New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher. “This funding will play a significant role to ensure emer gency feeding organizations have the resources they need. In addition, in the agreements signed with our food banks, they will be providing thou sands of additional pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables secured from our local New Jersey farmers.”

From The Desk Of The Governor Phil Murphy

Author: Continued From Page 1

Healing, in this sense, was spiritual as well as medical.

There was also a concept that you can offer up your suffering to God – you make that sacrifice to share the bur den of someone else who is suffering. In this case, pain doesn’t have to be

a stop sign on the road of life. It’s a redemptive power. You are easing the pain of someone else in the world.

There were a number of treatments over the years, including diet, pre scriptions, injections, and back sur gery. “It was a constant roller coaster of getting my expectations up,” she said. These plans didn’t even cure her; they just eased the pain for a bit.

Eventually, it was time to leave the

convent.

“It was almost audible, like I could feel a hand on my shoulder, saying ‘You don’t need to stay here to love me.’ All of a sudden, I felt that heavi ness go away.” However, she was in a difficult position. She gave up her belongings when she joined the sis terhood. The only clothing she had was her habit. She had no car and no money. She was 40 years old, with no

health insurance and a chronic illness.

The church sent her off with $1,000 and she went home to live with her parents. She earned her Master’s and has worked in parishes, running CCD classes.

Unfortunately, the neuropathy start ed getting worse around 2013. She couldn’t work full time any more. She could still work part time to supple ment Social Security (she didn’t pay into it when she was in the convent). She worked part time in a law office before getting laid off. She became a caregiver/companion for seniors.

She moved to the area, first in Whit ing in 2016, then to Holiday City at Berkeley.

“This baby came to be in late 2015,” she said of her book. The impetus came from telling her story to people and them saying “You should really write a book.”

The purpose is not for money, or to be famous, but to help other people understand what life is like with a chronic disease. And if the reader has a chronic disease, to let them see the light at the end of the tunnel.

When it took years trying to get a diagnosis, it is absolutely important for someone in the same situation to know that they are not alone. Hope fully, this book will shine a light on pudendal neuropathy. People who have it – but don’t know it yet – might read this and have an “a-ha moment” when they recognize the symptoms.

People don’t like to talk about prob lems in the pelvic area so sufferers lack a support system. Sometimes, even doctors don’t listen. There is also less funding for research. The rate of suicide is far higher for those who have chronic pain.

“I’ll never say in a million years that it’s easy, but some of the best years in my life have been during the years where I’ve been suffering,” she said.

She wants to tell people “I’ve been there. I know that despair. They’re making breakthroughs. You have to hold on.”

For more information, visit authorm rosepeluso.com/

School:

Continued From Page 1

of Michelle Richardson, Board Secre tary at the Jackson Township Board of Education office located at 151 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson, NJ 08527 or emailed to jsd@jacksonsd.org.

The school district asks that respon dents put “board vacancy” in the subject line. The deadline for receiving mate rials is Dec. 19.

During the December 21, closed ses sion part of the Board of Education’s business meeting (which begins at 4:30 p.m.), all applicants will be invited to make a brief (five minutes maximum) statement that elaborates on their resume and cover letter: reason for wanting to serve, qualifications, ex pectations for service, areas of priority.

The Board will ask any follow-up questions. When the board returns to public session to begin the regular board meeting, the board will vote in public to appoint one of the candidates and the

Projects:

Continued From Page 1

sponsored by the Township. The Pathfinders establish and maintain trails in the community for walking, hiking, jogging, bicycling, and other recreational uses. Hikes and trail work days are scheduled periodically throughout the year and announced their Facebook page, their email list, and in The Jackson Times

The group was founded in the spring of 1999 by Ellen Repasy, who orga nized a group of area residents con

appointed candidate will be immediate ly seated after taking the oath of office.

Qualifications for a board member, established by state law, include being a United States citizen; a resident of the district for at least one year at the time of election or appointment and able to read and write.

Other qualifications include being a registered voter in the district where the person is submitting the nomination petition (or being appointed) and not being disqualified as a voter pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:4-1 and not having been convicted of any of the crimes or of fenses enumerated in N.J.S.A. 18A;121 or conspiracy to commit or attempt to commit any of said crimes.

The applicant cannot be the mayor or a member of the governing body of the municipality; or have a direct or indirect contract with or claim against the board.

Additional information can be ob tained from the New Jersey School Boards Association at njsba.org/about/ membership/school-board-candidacy

cerned about the increasing develop ment in Jackson. Thanks to the efforts of Ellen and Jackson Township’s for mer Deputy Mayor Vicki Rickabaugh, the Pathfinders was recognized as a township organization and given an operating budget.

The Pathfinders meet monthly as a small group and encourage the public to attend a meeting. “We always wel come new faces, especially those hav ing the same interests in preserving the environment and beautifying it for the community to enjoy,” McCall said. For information about the organiza tion, visit jacksonpathfinders.org

Ocean County Parks Announces New Trail App

OCEAN COUNTY – “Don’t hike alone...take your phone!” Introducing the Trail Tracker App to help you pinpoint your location on the trails of Ocean County. Follow the link to down load: bit.ly/OceanCountyTrailTracker.

NOTE: This web app was created to

assist park visitors. It is currently in a beta test and may not completely, ac curately depict information. To better improve this app and user experience, let Ocean County Parks & Recreation know your feedback here: OCParks@ co.ocean.nj.us.

Jackson Police

n E w S

New Egypt Flea Market’s “Small Business Saturday” Event

NEW EGYPT – What a wonderful day at the New Egypt Flea Market’s “Small Business Saturday Event,” in partner ship with Plumsted Township and its local non-profits. Notably present are members of American Legion Post 455, including Sons of the American

Legion, as well as the American Legion Auxiliary.

Also present, representing New Egypt Recreation Baseball, is the entire Owle Family, recruiting members for the program and giving out “freebies” such as Crackerjack and Big League Chew.

─Photo courtesy Plumsted Township

December 2022 Free Nature Programs

JACKSON – Tune into nature, it is the best way to relax! The team at Forest Resource Education Center are ready to show you how with many forest-fo cused educational experiences.

Peruse and pre-register for the smallgroup outdoor nature programs here: eventbrite.com/o/forest-resource-ed ucation-center-31858983647.

Below are the following events for the month of December: Forest Pre-School: Come to the for est and river at FREC to explore the outdoors. We will hike, play and learn about Nature allowing your child’s own interest to guide the day. The Forest Pre-School is geared for kids between 4 and 6 years old. An adult must be pres ent. The program includes 45 minutes exploring along our trails followed by a pinecone craft at our picnic tables. Bring snacks or picnic lunch.

This program meets on December 2 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson. Any questions about age requirements con tact: jane.mattson@dep.nj.gov.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 15 people for this event and registration is free.

Holiday Greens Craft: Join for an outdoor winter Greens Walk followed by a free, hands-on holiday centerpiece workshop. Dress warm for the weather and bring your own small clippers. Ages 12 and up with an adult. Space is limited to registered persons only. This program meets on December 10 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and at 1:30 to 3 p.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor

Boulevard, Jackson. Rainwater is the following day, December 11.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 16 people per session Registration is free and open to all persons 12 years plus.

Take a Hike Day: Take A Hike Day is the ideal opportunity to reconnect with the fundamentally important things in life: the fresh air, blue sky, deep rich earth, and all creatures that share our home, the Earth.

Join the staff at FREC to hike and appreciate the things we find along the way on a 1.5 hour walk in the Pinelands. Our naturalists will guide and answer any questions that you may have about this unique Pineland ecology.

Hikes such as this one will be held monthly on the 3rd Thursday on the month now through the winter (which are best days being there are no bugs!) Next hike is December 15 at 1 p.m.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 20 people per hike. Registration is free and open to all persons 10 years plus.

Winter Solstice Hike: Join on the Solstice for a morning walk in search of our three native hollies. Meet at the Forest Resource Education Center for an easy 1 hour, 1 mile Holly Hunt. Maximum number of people is 15. Dress for the weather and cancel for rain.

This program meets on December 21 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson. Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Registration is free.

“A Christmas Carol In The Making”

JACKSON – “A Christmas Carol In The Making,” a unique adaptation of A Christmas Carol presented by More CHAOS Inc., will be performed on De cember 9 through 11 at Jackson Liberty High School.

The event will be a fundraiser for The

Taylor’s Hope Foundation. A foundation helping children battling histiocytosis, a rare form of cancer.

Jackson residents can receive 20% off all tickets. Tickets are $25 each. Order tickets online at: morechaos.booktix.com. Enter code: JLSD5off at purchase.

Menorah Lighting

JACKSON – Bat Shalom Hadassah presents Menorah Lighting on December 20 at 4:40 p.m. at Town Hall, 95 W Veterans Highway. Candles will be lit by Rabbi Shmuel Naparstek.

Strand Theater Fundraiser

LAKEWOOD – Because of the cancel lation of several shows due to COVID at the Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, the Board of the Strand is hold ing a 50/50 fundraiser with the proceeds benefitting the theater.

Tickets cost $10 and the grand prize ticket

holder will win 50 percent of the total sales. The drawing will take place December 18 at 10 p.m. The winner does not have to be present.

To get raffle tickets or make a donation, visit strand.org or email holly@strand.org for tickets or more information.

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

LAKEHURST – Beacon of Life will be holding a Toy/Food Drive to Benefit Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Drop off new toys or non-perishable food items to Beacon of Life, 800 Route 70 Lakehurst, by December 12.

OUTPATIENT REHAB:

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INPATIENT REHAB:

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

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Sound News

Hearing Loss Can Impact Cognition

Research shows that hearing loss may lead to the rapid progression of cognitive decline. The evidence in the literature suggests that:

• The slow onset of hearing loss can have a significant impact on several key brain functions, including the memory, hearing, speech and language portions of cognition.

• Hearing impairment is a greater risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia than other individual midlife risks.

• The proactive management of hear ing loss can delay or slow the onset or progression of cognitive decline.

• Studies show the use of hearing aids can slow down the rapid progression of cognitive decline.

Garden State Hearing & Balance Center is on the front line of promoting

cognitive health. We now offer a com puterized test of cognitive function called Cognivue Thrive. This screen ing tool objectively and reliably identi fies changes in cognitive function that could be indicative of an impairment that requires physician referral.

In our opinion, driving brain health awareness and improving access to cognitive screenings are among the most important challenges of the 21st century. Although cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, early identifi cation of underlying conditions such as untreated hearing loss will lead to appropriate management, thus improv ing cognitive health.

If you would like to schedule a Cog nivue Thrive screening, please feel free to contact our Toms River office at 732-818-3610.

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!

Christmas Train Show At The Lakewood Museum

LAKEWOOD – The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, 500 Country Club Road, off County Line Road, Kuser Hall, Pine Park, Lake wood, is inviting the public to a Christ mas Train Show at Sheldon Wolpin Historical Museum on December 10 and December 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy seeing both modern and tra

ditional trains, both passenger and freight, dual gauge, HO, S, O gauge trains. Thomas the Tank Engine will also be making an appearance. Admis sion is free but donations are always gladly accepted.

For more information, contact Ted Bertiger, president, at captnkraft@aol. com or visit ocsmr.com.

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

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

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Helpful Solutions For Seasonal Affective Disorder

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

In certain parts of the world, the cold win ter season causes a mood disorder called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD and it happens at the same time of year.

The winter blues impact over 10 million people just in the USA alone and 80 per cent of those with SAD are women leading researchers to believe there is a hormonal component to the condition.

Symptoms include feeling depression in the wintertime along with low energy as compared to the summer.

Other signs and symptoms of SAD include:

• The uptick in headaches or other aches and pains

• Difficulty sleeping

• Feelings of anxiety or annoyance

• Sensations of feeling worthless or guilty

• Hopelessness

• Thoughts about self-harm or suicide

• Loss of interest in going places or meeting people

We know that certain risk factors increase the incidence of seasonal affective disorder. For example, there is a strong correlation be tween reduced sunlight hours and circadian rhythm alterations. There is also a change in levels of melatonin (it increases while cor tisol decreases), and finally, where you live matters. People who live closer to the equator (for example Florida) seem to do better than those who live further away like in Alaska.

5 Helpful Solutions and Considerations for SAD

1. St. John’s wort has been tried for people with SAD, however, the results are incon sistent.

2. Vitamin B12, again it may help, but results are inconsistent.

3. Vitamin D appears to help some folks, but not all.

4. Prescribed antidepressants such as Bu propion.

5. Hormone replacement, specifically pro gesterone or cortisol.

Let me offer one quick comment about num ber 5 above (the progesterone and cortisol). Restoring those hormones must be done very carefully, by a hormone specialist. This may require you to have some baseline hormone testing, either blood, saliva, or urine. If your doctor recommends hormone testing, you can purchase a DUTCH test kit and do it at home. I have this available on my website as well because I am a Provider. But do not replenish hormones ‘in the dark’ get your self tested first because you can’t self-treat yourself hormones.

There are light therapy devices sold online as well, however, I do not think they will have much impact. They’d be fun to try and can’t hurt anything.

Most of us do not have the means to travel to Hawaii or New Zealand just to get to a sunny warm part of the world when it’s cold here in America. So if you have SAD, please try some of the potential solutions I’ve listed above, and make sure you are being seen by a licensed, qualified professional, whether that is a physician or therapist or other. Don’t go it alone! Share your feelings with your family members or friends so they can support you. And keep in mind one very important thing. SAD goes away. It is a seasonal condition. No matter how you feel right now, it will lift.

If this topic interests you, please read the longer, more detailed version of my article. It is available at suzycohen.com ”

around thE JErSEy ShorE

Should You Feed Wildlife? If You Do, What You Should Know

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Having access to wildlife can be very rewarding. We can watch them and learn from their behaviors and perhaps better understand them. So naturally, when hard times hit during the colder months our first instinct is to help them along as many of their natural foods have become dormant, died off, or simply left the area as is possible for migrant species.

Before you get started, here are some potential consequences to feeding. An imals may start depending on you for their food sources and will likely return. You will notice more and more animals appearing in your yard. Too many an imals at the feeding station may cause aggressive behaviors, and a lack of fear when being around humans. That can be a dangerous situation. Some neighbors may not welcome wildlife in the same way. Never ever feed foods consumed by humans, as their nutritional require ments are different from ours. Never be outdoors with the animals during feeding.

Feeding wildlife is only good if you do so properly. By that I mean you need to keep yourself and the ani mal(s) safe and healthy. Before you start feeding, make sure you research

the animal(s) you specifically want to feed and plan accordingly. Every town has ordinances addressing wildlife feeding – research that beforehand so you know what restrictions you have. Some general rules are placing the animal-specific centralized feeding station away from your house to avoid animals wandering through your yard. Feed once and vary your feeding times. This will help keep predatory animals away as the routine is changing. Where animals feed there will be predators on ground and in the air waiting to prey upon their next meal. Feed where there is overhead protection. Clean the area at the end of the day to avoid contamination. Only small amounts of appropriate food to fit the animal’s diet should be offered. If you notice the number of animals increasing or competition among them, you are over feeding – cut back. The more animals feeding, the risk for transmitting dis ease to each other increases.

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.

Enjoy The Holidays But Be Mindful Of Scams!

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

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

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

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

in less than a month — and open under a new name somewhere else.

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

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

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

• Manager, NJ Lic. 4328 Frank T. Palino

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Local Nonprofit Saves Horses From Abuse

By Alyssa Riccardi

HOWELL – A Township-based non profit is going above and beyond to rescue horses from neglect, abuse, and even slaughter.

Horse Rescue United consists of 10 volunteers who dedicate their time sav ing horses of all breeds and continue to take care of them despite enduring long shifts in extreme heat or cold.

On a hot day, volunteer Susan Cohen loads the tractor with grain and hay, medical supplies, fly spray, brush es, pitchforks and rakes. The horses patiently wait for their breakfast as Susan feeds them a few carrots as treats. After feeding, the horses are then groomed, and checked for any new cuts or scrapes.

A total of eight horses, including two miniature horses, are currently attend ed to daily. Once Susan returns to the barn to check on supplies and clean up, she then updates the rest of the volun teers about all the horses’ condition.

“I like the solitude,” Susan said. “It’s quiet down here and pretty, especially at sunrise and sunset. I could be tired

or stressed from work, but the minute I see the horses, I’m happy.”

Horse Rescue United explained how the intense heat and humidity in the summer as well as the cold and snow in the winter both create a challenge when it comes to food delivering for the horses. When the weather gets cold the troughs will freeze and if there’s heavy snowfall, hay has to be transported by sled. Even through these weather conditions, volunteers make sure the horses are always fed.

Long-time volunteer MaryAnn Sorensen Allacci, who has years of experience working with horses, said she spends hours scrubbing and filling water troughs and checking horses for medical needs.

“This is an amazing group of volun teers. We all just step up to collaborate where and how we can to meet the needs of the rescue,” MaryAnn said.

While some of the volunteers are retired, many have full or part-time jobs outside of Horse Rescue United. Some of the volunteers are teachers, nurses, social workers, but what they

all have in common is their passion to help these rescued horses.

Once the horses are rehabilitated, many will be available for adoption so they can find their forever home.

“Last year, I started planning to retire from my careers of 45 years in social work. What would I do all day? When I saw that HRU was looking for vol unteers, I figured it was worth a try,” volunteer Irene Gavin said. “It was a great move. The work is hard, but I love it! The volunteers are so caring and dedicated; we are like family. Of course, the best part of the assignment is the horses. We all get excited when a new horse comes in and do our best to get them settled. Although it is sad to see one go, I love the joy and excite ment on the face of an adopter as I hand over their new horse.”

“Horse Rescue United has become my peace and solace. It doesn’t matter how bad my day was, as soon as I get here, it all goes away. I’ve always loved horses, but I never worked with them until a cold day in January when ‘Piper’ crossed my path; her owner had been

taken to the hospital with dementia and she was left with no food or water,” volunteer Lisa Valsera said.

“While I contacted every rescue I could find, none of them responded or simply said they couldn’t help. While HRU had a wait list, they welcomed Piper with open arms, and I became a volunteer. It’s hard work, but caring for these sweet, beautiful horses is worth every drip of sweat you can give them. Our group of amazing, passionate vol unteers make all the trials and tribula tions an absolute pleasure,” Lisa added.

Currently, Horse Rescue United is seeking more volunteers to help feed and care for the rescue horses. Addi tionally, many of the horses are in need of adoptive homes as well as sponsors for their ongoing care. For more infor mation, visit HorseRescueUnited.org.

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

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)

Single Male Senior - To share apart ment with other senior male. Crest wood Village, Whiting. $600 p/m. Private bedroom with kitchen-B/R privileges. Tel: 845-391-6430. (1)

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)

Pellet Stove - Englander Model 55-SHP10L. Heats 1,500 sq. ft. Very good condition. Used. $400, price negotiable. Call 732-350-1314 (3)

Dolls

Items Wanted

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

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

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for

Jackson - House For Sale By Own er. Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres.

photo of thE wEEk

Commercial fishing boats in Point Pleasant. This pic was taken by Jim Fisher. Wanna see your snaps featured in this space? Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Slow and steady might not win the race, but at least you won’t end up in an unwinnable argu ment. Losing your temper or rushing ahead after making hasty decisions can land you in trouble during the week ahead.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In the upcoming week, you may go looking for love in all the wrong places. Perhaps it is a better idea to look closer to home, where you’re unlikely to be fooled by surface appearances. Extra bills could pile up.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Use your ener gy and enthusiasm wisely. Stifle any tendency to be overly competitive. You might find an illuminating insight and realize how your own actions may factor into tensions or disputes.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : Your intuitions might not be reliable in the week ahead, especially if you are making a pur chase or saddled with financial decisions. Thankfully, you can count on a partner or loved one to be more down to earth.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Your ambition may make you yearn for more success in the week ahead, but an impractical streak could rear its ugly head. Be sure to understand where your loyalties lie and get business agreements in writing.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Be sure there is a soft place to land. Let good inten tions prevail, and always stay fully in your integrity. Spending your money on things of lasting value makes more sense than indulging in passing whims.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): It might be a good idea to keep your opinions to yourself as the week unfolds. Someone may be too wrapped up in achieving their business objectives to indulge in romantic fantasies or other personal activities now.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The simplest explanation is usually the best one. Be direct and to the point when presenting your ideas. Avoid making major purchases in the week to come because you might be too trusting and believe a sales pitch.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In the upcoming week, you may dream you can conquer the world while safely hanging out in your own little zone. Out in the world, however, you should concentrate on making every effort work on your behalf.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Bring your practical side and your creative one to the table now. This combo can be one of your greatest strengths and can bring out wonderful solutions. Wallow in a romantic dream or two, then go back to minding the store.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Loved ones might have unrealistic ideas or romanti cize the importance of their spare time activi ties. Watch your money carefully in the week ahead since you might be paying attention to the spin rather than the substance.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You may feel your allure and attractiveness is slipping as the week unfolds. Even if you are in “ugly” stars, they will pass. Watch for some imagina tive ideas that can be put on the back burner until the timing is better.

A CREAMLESS CREAMY TOMATO SOUP -- NOW THAT’S DREAMY!

By America’s Test Kitchen

CREAMLESS CREAMY TOMATO SOUP

Serves 1 to 2 (makes 2 cups)

2 tablespoons extra- virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons chopped shallot

1 garlic clove, peeled and minced

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced toma toes, opened 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 slice hearty white sandwich bread, torn into 1- inch pieces 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar

1. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-low heat for 1 minute (oil should be hot but not smoking). Add shallot

and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 3 minutes.

2. Pour tomatoes and their juice into the saucepan. Stir in broth, bread and sugar. In crease heat to medium- high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stir ring occasionally, until bread starts to fall apart, about 5 minutes.

3. Remove pan from heat. Let tomato mixture cool for 5 minutes.

4. Transfer tomato mixture into a blender jar. Place lid on top of blender and hold lid firmly in place with a fold ed dish towel. Process until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Pour soup into bowls or mugs and serve.

For the week of dec 10 - dec 16

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

By Jeraldine Saunders