2022-12-24 - The Southern Ocean Times

SOUTHERN OCEAN

Santa Visit Shows Us The Best Gifts

People Get Ready, ere’s A Train Show Coming

Santa and Mrs. Claus visited with nearly 1700 people during their stop at their vacation home in Barnegat.

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT - It’s a good thing Santa and Mrs. Claus have a place to lay their weary heads when they’re coming to town.

From all accounts, the big guy had his elves working hard as he whisked through the skies to descend on his vacation home in the historic section of downtown Barnegat. News of his arrival traveled fast among those who signed up for a visit

and some good old fashioned community fun. Santa said after he received a letter from the Barnegat Township Elementary School PTA, he quickly reviewed his “Naughty and Nice” list and decided the personal visit was in order.

“Years ago, the Dunfee School PTA used to do a Santa night with free pictures, as did a couple of the other schools,” shared Colleen Angus, Vice

Mother Of Late Child Gets Heartbreaking Call

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER - The phone call literally left the young mother breathless with disbelief. Breanna Micciolo immediately called her mother Rebecca, who shared her daughter’s alarm.

Breanna is the mother of the late Corey Micciolo, whose life was cut short on April 2, 2021, at just six years old.

Corey’s father, Christopher Gregor, remains locked up in the Ocean County

Jail, waiting a trial date for charges he murdered his son.

“A man called and said they (Division of Child Protection and Permanency “DCPP”) substantiated that Chris abused Corey,” shared Rebecca. “Now, they call? It makes no sense.”

The mother and grandmother decided that someone was pulling a cruel joke on them. Surely, no one official would call to validate their suspicions 20

months after the little boy’s life was taken from him.

Days later, two letters came in the mail marked with a case identification and investigation number regarding the “Allegation of Child Abuse/Neglect Concerning Corey Micciolo.”

The fi rst letter said the Division’s investigation determined that child abuse was substantiated as far as a

LAKEWOOD – Little did anyone know that when the five founding members of a local hobby club fi rst formed their group in 1987 that it would still be running strong 35 years later. But that’s exactly what happened, and the Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders (OCSMR) recently had their open house Christmas Train Show on Dec. 10 and 11 to demonstrate to the general public just how engaging their hobby can be.

on the layout,” says Ted Bertiger, the club’s president. “The guys model the layouts to look for realism like the real trains, and you make the layouts that way.”

The group had its fi rst home in the back room of a former Amoco gas station along Route 88, but in 1992 was able to fi nd a more permanent home in the basement of the All Saints Episcopal Church in Lakewood. There the club stayed for 24 years before completely vacating the site in 2016.

(Santa - See Page 4) (Call - See Page 7) (Train - See Page 5)

Housed in the basement of the Lakewood Historical Museum, the club’s rail layouts dominate two large rooms with scenic backdrops and detailed accoutrements that in all likelihood, due to constant upgrades and new ideas, will never be truly fi nished.

“We basically have our four operating lines

After more than two decades at that location the group migrated to their current location, which is the former Kuser Hall, part of the historic Newman School in Lakewood. In addition to the massive layout rooms, the basement serves as a storage area as well as offices and train repair workshops.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

By Mark Bator

–Photo by Mark Bator Detail on the club’s layouts represent hours of painstaking work.

Santa:

Continued From Page 1

President of the Elementary School PTA. “Because of COVID, we weren’t able to offer it and this year, we decided to do more than just the pictures.”

Nearly 1,700 people signed up for the free three-day event that included assistance from what locals refer to as the folks west of the Parkway.

Pheasant Run was one of the fi rst over55 communities built in Barnegat, and also one of the smallest. Residents there donned baking aprons and whipped together 300 cupcakes.

The Mirage Women’s Club and residents donated forty dozen cookies for distribution at the event. Dunkin’ Donuts supplied gallons and gallons of hot chocolate to add to the sense of warmth and holiday spirit at the event held at the Donahue School.

Volunteers pitched in to man all different aspects of the holiday spectacular from decorations to elf service to clean up duties. National Honor Society students from both Brackman Middle School and Barnegat High School dedicated their time as Santa’s helpers, as did several parents and community members.

Two young pups, sisters of one of the district’s therapy dogs, sat still and took in the scene. Outfitted in red bows, the white labs glistened and seemed awfully cozy with a familiar looking Grinch.

Imagination was in full force with even the district’s Bengal mascot magically encased in a snow globe. PTA member elves guided guests to visit with Santa, and even set up a picture-perfect arch for a set of separate memory photos.

Children and adults alike had the opportunity to pick out pictures and wooden ornaments and color them. Those looking for small gifts also had the chance to do some last-minute shopping at the event.

According to Angus, children with special needs had Santa to themselves during the fi rst hour. The quiet had a more calming effect than the commotion that was soon to follow.

While Santa gets top billing on all of his appearances, he says that Mrs. Claus should really get credit as an unsung hero. A Barnegat mom agreed.

“I remember the fi rst time we took my son to see Santa,” said Christine Chapais. “He was so afraid that he wouldn’t go near him. Mrs. Claus saw what was happening and came to our table to talk to Tommy. She comforted him, which prompted Tommy to go sit on Santa’s lap. Tommy’s eight now and calls Santa his friend.”

Over the years, Santa’s met with several children both locally and afar and said he’s treasured each and every visit. In an exclusive interview, Santa shared two special things that happened when he listened to the children from Barnegat earlier in the week.

While many kids think Santa’s there to fulfi ll their gift list, some come with presents of their own. Santa received one that he’s planning to frame for his Santa room.

Eight-year-old Dustin Therien decided to draw Santa, his house, and his reindeer in a portrait that Santa said both amazed him and exemplified the reason the Claus couple does what they do.

“Dustin said that Santa and Mrs. Claus work so hard that he just wanted to give them a present,” said his mom, Kristen. “Dustin has a very kind heart.”

Dustin was diagnosed with a Wilms’ tumor at just five years old.

The visit to see Santa this year was just one of the good things that happened to Dustin and his family, reported his mom. That same day, three separate doctors confi rmed Dustin’s cancer remained in remission and seemed likely to stay that way.

Santa was touched by the small boy who thought of him – and others who understood the real reason for the season of giving.

“Towards the end of the night, I was talking to a little girl who was about 9 or 10,” Santa added. “I asked her what she wanted for Christmas.”

“She turned to me and said, ‘Santa, you know it’s not about the presents. It’s about the love,’” he said. “You know, that’s what I really needed at that point – after a long day.”

The OCSMR is a 501(c)(3) organization and accepts cash donations as well as model trains and accessories that are donated by the general public. While some of the pieces donated by the public may be utilized by the members, often times they are cleaned up and repaired for sale at train shows to help raise funds for the club.

While many members of the general public may remember having train sets that ran under the Christmas tree around the holidays, they are often surprised to find that the hobby is still very much alive in the age of computer games and advanced electronics. But model trains have seen an increase in electronic sophistication, as well. The old lever-controlled transformers have given way to electronic radio-controlled trains that can even be set up with governors that regulate speeds. In addition, many of the accessories are no longer simply motion-activated by passing trains.

While many new manufacturers have gotten into the resurgence of model railroading, several of the largest players in the market may be familiar to those who enjoyed their model train sets in the past. Manufacturers such as Athern and Lionel are household names, but others such as Atlas, Walthers, and Bachmann are among the top brands that draw the attention of the modeling community.

Besides numerous websites dedicated to the hobby, aficionados will often pick up such popular periodicals such as Classic

Trains, Model Railroader and Railroad Model Craftsman to get ideas, tips, and research ways to improve their layouts.

One reason that the hobby has seen something of a Renaissance was due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With reduced time spent in their usual social pursuits, train modelers found more time for themselves, which many used to re-ignite their passion.

By its very nature, train modeling is a somewhat solitary hobby, with extensive layouts involving carpentry, track work, scenery, and incredible attention to detail. While many club members maintain layouts in their own homes, their combined efforts shine in their club headquarters in Lakewood.

Modelers go to great length to get accuracy in their re-creations, and the OCSMR members are no exception. Many do research, fi nd old photographs, and go to painstaking lengths to build realism and historical precision into their displays. Like craftsmen and artisans, modelers strive for perfection.

As may be expected, a local flavor dominates the displays at the OCSMR, with re-creations of Matawan, Aberdeen, South Amboy, Belmar, and Long Branch under construction.

“We haven’t had an open house in three years,” explains Bertiger about the COVID-19 restriction period. Normally, however, the club likes to do at least two open house events a year, with the next one earmarked for April, 2023.

“We have kids come down and they’re having a blast,” says Bertiger. “It’s basically a hands-on approach.”

The OCSMR currently has some 30 members, who come from all walks of life, including former corporate executives, commercial airline pilots and even one who is employed as a train engineer. Club members range in age from 11 to 83, and the club is always willing to accept new modelers into their family. While they may meet several nights a week, not all members come on all nights. Wherever members hail from, all agree that the OCSMR is worth the modest club dues of $220 per year.

The club also gets requests to put on demonstrations at local events around the Monmouth and Ocean County area, as well. One such recent event was held in downtown Farmingdale in November. If it is feasible and fits their schedule, the OCSMR

will look to make it possible, transporting equipment and displays to entertain the crowds with public participation strongly encouraged.

“I ran into this couple just by chance, meeting them at a hobby shop,” Bertiger explains, “and they said, ‘Does your club do events?’ They were [having] an outdoor vendor market in the middle of town, and we got hundreds of people who [came] to this. It was phenomenal.”

The club is open to visitors on Tuesday and Friday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Arrangements to visit the club may be done by calling them at 732-363-7799 or by visiting their website (ocsmr.com) for further information.

s PotLiGHt o n G oVeRnment

$857.9B Defense Spending Bill Passed In Senate

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J) applauded the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which included several of the senator’s priorities, including the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act. The $857.9 billion FY2023 defense spending bill provides vital funding to support our national security, American’s troops, veterans, and their families.

“Today, I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act of 2022, a bipartisan

bill to safeguard our national security and support our service members with the resources they need to implement the National Defense Strategy. I’m glad we were able to come together in a bipartisan way and authorize a 4.6% pay raise, a 2% housing allowance increase, and expanded childcare benefits for our men and women in uniform. These measures will bolster our civilian military workforce, upholding the commitment we owe to those willing to put their lives on the line for our country, both domestically and abroad.

“This critical legislation contains many domestic priorities I have championed during this Congress, including the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act to protect judges on the federal bench and their families from threats to their safety.

It also authorizes funding for several U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects in New Jersey as part of the Water Resources Development Act of 2022, including the Rahway River, Sea Bright, Manasquan, Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook Bay, and other small flood control projects in South Jersey counties. And it provides funding for ongoing studies at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl - also known as PFAS chemicals - which have been linked to health complications when found in everyday items and drinking water and which I’ve proudly supported and urged for in previous years.

“With the passage of this legislation, we are also sending several of my priorities as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to the President’s desk for their signature into law. This includes my historic Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act

to strengthen the U.S.-Taiwan relationship; my United States-Ecuador Partnership Act to expand our nation’s cooperation with Ecuador; and my Department of State Authorization Act of 2022, which supports and invests in our nation’s diplomats, building on last year’s passage that broke a near 20-year streak of an authorization bill not being passed into law. Most importantly, we uphold our commitment to Ukraine in its fight against the unjust and unprovoked attack by Russia.

“Simply put, the FY2023 NDAA is a big deal for our nation and for New Jerseyans and their families. Supporting our troops, keeping our communities safe and investing in our national security is one the most fundamental obligations we have as Members of Congress. I thank partners from both sides of the aisle for supporting my priorities included in this historic legislation.”

Teacher Shortage Addressed By Streamlining Assessments

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed S896 w/GR into law, which prohibits the State Board of Education from requiring the completion of the Educative

Teacher Performance Assessment (“edTPA”) as a condition of eligibility for a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing (“CEAS”) or certificate of eligibility (“CE”). The Legislature unanimously concurred with the Governor’s conditional veto of an earlier version of the legislation that prohibited consideration of any Commissioner of Education approved performance-based assessment

as a factor in determining whether to recommend a candidate for a CEAS or CE. The Governor recommended changes necessary to maintain the elimination of the State’s current requirement that educator candidates pass the edTPA test, and instead moved the responsibility for administering a performance-based assessment to the educator preparation programs (“EPP”), which are best-positioned to select or create the most appropriate assessment for their candidates.

“As we face a national teacher shortage, we must work to establish effective and efficient solutions to grow this critical workforce on behalf of New Jersey’s students,” said Governor Murphy. “By eliminating edTPA, we will streamline a process that has previously acted as a barrier in the transition between sitting in a classroom and leading a classroom. In New Jersey we recognize that teaching is not only a career, but a calling. I am proud to sign legislation that empowers educator prep programs to appropriately assess their candidates, which will ensure that New Jersey continues to produce the nation’s best educators.”

The legislation signed eliminates the State Board of Education’s ability to require candidates to complete a Commissioner of Education approved performance-based assessment, including the edTPA, as a condition of certification. Rather, under the legislation signed today, CEAS and CE candidates will be required to complete performance-based assessments as part of their EPP, beginning with teaching candidates who complete their EPP in the spring of 2024.

“In the midst of a teacher shortage, we should assist teaching candidates rather than further obstruct their opportunity to

teach in a classroom,” said Senator Shirley K Turner. “The edTPA assessment has been a hindrance to the progression of current and prospective educators. It is a costly, unnecessary, and unreliable exam that has complicated the accreditation process for teaching candidates. Eradicating this burdensome assessment is a step in the right direction to make New Jersey a more equitable state.”

“When fighting a national teacher shortage, we must fi nd ways to recruit and hire more, qualified educators quickly,” said Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli. “With this bill, we remove another barrier to teaching for those who want to work with the next generation of students.”

“Recent years have presented our schools with many significant challenges, including a national teacher shortage. Our students deserve the best education possible, and to deliver that we must have a fully staffed teacher workforce,” said Assemblywoman Mila Jasey. “At our meeting of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools addressing the teacher shortage, the EdTPA was repeatedly identified as a contributor to the shortage. I am gratified we are eliminating this expensive test which does nothing to predict classroom success.”

“This is a win for students and educators in New Jersey,” said NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. “EdTPA was an unnecessary Christie-era holdover that was keeping highly qualified educators out of New Jersey classrooms at a time when they are more needed than ever. We are glad that our future educators will now be able to focus their time and energy on developing and practicing the real-world skills that will bring them success in their future

Senator Robert Menendez

From The Desk Of The Governor

Call:

Continued From Page 1

report initiated from an incident on March 26, 2021.

A second piece of correspondence with the same caption stated the Division’s investigation also determined that child abuse was substantiated on April 2, 2021 – the date of young Corey’s passing.

“The Division will not be providing further services to Corey Micciolo and his family,” continued both letters. Both were boilerplate form letters, which the Micciolo family felt were cold and far too late. As it now stands, there is no Corey to offer further services to, and the cries for help have moved in a different direction.

During Corey’s lifetime, Breanna and Rebecca proactively reported repetitive incidents of abuse to the authorities they felt were there to protect their youngest family member. They now rely on the strength of the criminal justice system to

Government:

classrooms so that our public schools can remain the very best in America.”

“NJPSA applauds Governor Murphy and the State Legislature for recognizing that edTPA is no longer necessary and that the real-world experiences of student teaching serve aspiring teachers more,” said Karen Bingert, Executive Director of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. “This shift both benefits teaching candidates both fi nancially and professionally empowers teaching interns to focus on developing their skills in the classroom, working with students, and learning from their mentors.”

“School leaders are grateful for the support of the Governor to place assessment of prospective teachers within their preparation program,” said Dr. Richard G. Bozza, Executive Director of NJ Association of School Administrators. “This action eliminates one hurdle to recruiting and retaining new teachers in New Jersey school districts and

intervene on their behalf.

Breanna and Rebecca have sought justice for Corey’s death since the day they lost him. While they blame Gregor, he’s pled not guilty to murder charges lodged against him.

Court dates in the form of status conferences are continuing in the case charging Gregor with murder. At the most recent conference on December 13, 2022, the family learned of one of the holdups in setting a trial date. Subpoenaed DCPP records have not yet come in for review by the court.

Rebecca said she couldn’t help but note the irony when it came to waiting for the Division to respond on a timely basis.

State departments routinely decline to comment on active investigations.

This week was bittersweet for the Micciolo family. Breanna delivered her second child, Eliana Rose on December 17th at 9:10 a.m. The young mother, who says she’s already in love with her new daughter, says she knows they both have a special angel.

integrates candidates’ performance assessment within their preparation programs.”

“At a time when districts across New Jersey are facing an unprecedented teacher shortage, the Council of County Vocational-Technical Schools applauds the Legislature and the Governor’s action to eliminate the edTPA assessment as a requirement for teacher certification,” said NJ Council of County Vocational-Technical Schools Executive Director Jackie Burke. “The removal of this costly and unnecessary burden will allow our schools to attract more candidates into the teaching profession.”

“The New Jersey Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (NJACTE) applauds the Governor for his signature today on this important bill and his commitment and that of the Senate and Assembly to the teaching profession,” said Stacey Leftwich, President of the New Jersey Association of Colleges for Teacher Education. “As New Jersey continues to combat a growing teacher shortage, this new law will ensure that our members can meet the demand of preparing the teachers of tomorrow.”

Garden Club Launches 55th House Tour

LONG BEACH – After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, the Garden Club of LBI’s Holiday Tour of Homes burst forth on the scene with miles of silver ribbons, baskets full of gold sprayed hydrangeas, orange peonies, paper white narcissus and a Santa Claus pressing his pants!

The event took place December 8 with over l,000 revelers in attendance. Visitors “oohed and ahhed” their way through five upscale houses from Barnegat Light to Beach Haven in the fundraising event that helps the club continue community service throughout the year.

Included with the ticket, guests were invited to a catered box lunch at the beautiful Brant Beach Yacht Club. Also included especially for visitors was a Holiday Boutique at the Surf City Fire House. Wreathes, arrangements and roping were all handmade by the Garden Club along with a lucious

– Photo courtesy Garden Club of LBI

bread and cookie sale from Garden Club kitchens! Ten vendors presented holiday gift ideas like lavender sachets, seabird paintings and sea glass décor.

All 190 Garden Club members participate as decorators, ticket sellers, cookie bakers and all the jobs required to create such a large-scale event. It’s defi nitely a team approach.

“Wow, we are back!” said Garden Club President Michele Farias. “Our members’ days and weeks and months of planning and preparation has enabled us to surpass all expectations!”

“Kudos to those who helped in so many ways… and to ticket buyers who allow us to continue community service all year.”

Tickets for the 56th Annual Tour of Homes go on sale in October, 2023. Mark your calendars…. you won’t want to miss it!

Lacey Garden Club News

LACEY – On January 5, the Lacey Garden Club will meet at Lacey ‘s Charles Smith Community Center, 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River in Room C. Social time with refreshments begins at 12:30 p.m. followed by the business meeting

at 1 p.m. They will then visit the Lacey Food Bank for a tour. The Lacey Food Bank is the charity the club supports throughout the year though monetary and food donations. New members are always welcome. No gardening experience needed.

Creative Kids: Art Sessions

LACEY – Students engage in Drawing, Painting & Sculpture through creative projects that stimulate imagination and helps develop important techniques and observational skills. Diverse Projects draw examples from important artists, style, and

works from around the world.

Sessions are from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following dates: January 2, 9, 23, 30; February 6, 13. Cost is $70 and is open to kids ages 8 to 11. To register visit: register.capturepoint. com/laceytownship.

ommunity n ews

Toys For Tots Toy Drive

Impaired Driving Crackdown

LACEY – Law enforcement officials from the Lacey Township Police Department will be cracking down on drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs as part of the annual end of year “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” statewide campaign. Beginning December 2 and continuing through January 1, local, county, and state law enforcement officials will conduct saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints looking for motorists who may be driving while intoxicated.

The national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” effort endeavors to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving through a combination of high-visibility enforcement and public education. “During the last five years New Jersey has experienced more than 33,000 alcohol involved crashes resulting in 662 fatalities. This is a critical law enforcement program that can save lives during a time of the year when social gatherings with alcohol increase the risk of impaired driving.”

Last year, 23% of all motor vehicle fatalities in New Jersey were alcohol-related.

Nationally, 11,654 people died in 2020 in drunk driving crashes. The societal cost associated with these crashes is estimated to be $44 billion annually.

Law enforcement agencies participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2022 Year End Holiday Crackdown offer the following advice for the holiday season:

• Take mass transit, a taxicab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.

• Spend the night where the activity or party is held.

• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life, and inaction could cost a life.

• Always buckle-up, every ride. It’s your best defense against an impaired driver.

• If you are intoxicated and traveling on foot, the safest way to get home is to take a cab or have a sober friend or family member drive or escort you to your doorstep.

• Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel.

EMS Auxiliary Election Of Officers

STAFFORD – On December 6 at their monthly business meeting, the Stafford Township EMS Auxiliary held their annual election of officers for 2023:

President- Sasha Ash

Vice President- Melissa Laddaga Secretary- Alyssa Cirina

Congratulations to the newly elected officers for 2023.

Retirement Community in Florida

–Photo courtesy Ship Bottom Police

SHIP BOTTOM – The Ship Bottom Police Department would like to thank local residents along with the help of the Garden Club of Long Beach Island in assisting with the collection of many generous toy donations which were forwarded to the Toys For Tots Toy Drive

ommunity n ews

Township Intern Receives Award

–Photo courtesy Stafford Township STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to congratulate their intern, Rachael Baldwin on receiving the New Jersey Municipal Management Association Internship Award for Service. Ms. Baldwin has done an outstanding job working on the Township’s Sustainability Jersey Certification Program as well as our Terra Cycle Recycling Program. Congratulations Rachael Baldwin!

Adopt-A-Drain Program

STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to share our Adopt-a-Drain Program! Visit the link for registration and complete details: staffordnj. gov/664/Adopt-A-Drain-Program. The Adopt-A-Drain program enhances the quality of Storm Water Management within the Township. Storm Water Management, flooding, and the quality of storm water discharge are a concern that effects all the

residents of Stafford Township and our waterways.

The goal of the program is to educate residents of the importance of Storm Water Management, reduce the frequency of street flooding, reduce the amount of litter that enters the drainage systems, establish a more effective preventative maintenance program, and improve the overall quality of storm water discharge to lakes and basins.

–Photo courtesy Stafford Police STAFFORD – The Stafford Police Department would like to congratulate one of their own - Officer Jen Mocanu. Jen was inducted into the Mount Saint Mary College Athletics Hall of Fame for her amazing basketball career. After her college career, Jen played professionally in Germany for several years, and joined our department in 2020. Congratulations Jen!

H eRe ’ s t o Y ouR H eAltH

• Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

5 Reasons To Visit Us Th is Winter

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

Hearing Aid Tune-Ups and Extra Batteries Winter is a tough season for your hearing aids. Low temperatures affect the functionality of nearly all personal electronics and drain batteries quickly. Changes in temperature create condensation, which can cause problems. Bring your aids in for a tune-up and inspection. We can ensure they are in great shape and send you home with an optional dehumidifier to store them in, along with extra batteries. If your currently wearing rechargeable hearing aid battery systems, in many cases we can check the integrity of the rechargeable battery.

New Tech Once your devices are more than four years old, we’ll need to make sure they’re still meeting your needs. From Bluetooth to telehealth compatibility, we can offer the perfect option to customize your hearing experience and filter out the annoying background noise that comes with busy shopping centers and family gatherings. If you’re due

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 Cool Ways To Use Geranium Essential Oil

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

While the geranium flower produces a beautiful bloom and is one of my mother’s personal favorites, the oil of this plant contains properties that we can benefit from in a variety of ways, both inside and out. Today I’m going to share with you several of the incredible benefits of Geranium Essential Oil (herein after GEO for brevity’s sake) whose health benefits have been used for centuries.

GEO is a wonderful oil and its health benefits which assist in the various bodily systems. The leaves, stem and petals of this plant are all used to produce the oil. It is commonly used to make fragrances, but that is only the beginning of the many uses of this incredible oil. You can buy essential oil of geranium and diffuse it in your home if you like it. The reason it has that bold but notable scent is because of the principal constituent called “geraniol.”

Here are the top 7 medicinal benefits of geranium oil:

1. Reproductive Health. The medicinal benefits are hard to overlook. This essential oil is also thought to help balance the system of the body responsible for regulating hormones and fertility, which might be helpful for those looking to conceive. It is an also anti-inflammatory oil and can help women with pain from menstrual cramps and PMS. Inhale the aroma, do not consume it.

2. Mind and Mood. GEO is a great option if you’re looking for something that produces an instantly calming atmosphere. It

it thought to offer a sense of peace when in emotional crisis, and can help one feel more grounded.

3. Skin Problems. People sometimes use this daily by putting a drop of it into their favorite moisturizer or cleanser, and then applying to the skin. This will help dry skin, clogged pores, acne, eczema, dermatitis and other blemishes. That’s because GEO contains strong anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds that make it great for skin health.

Briefly, here is a list of some other things that respond to GEO that you should know about. Please only apply topically and combine the GEO into a carrier oil, or the treatment you already use (for example, a drop in the Preparation H, or a drop in the lice shampoo you have).

4. Head Lice

5. Hemorrhoids

6. Minor burns

7. Neuropathy (nerve pain)

How to Use Geranium Oil

You can dilute this oil with a carrier oil or add a few drops to a diffuser. You can also just take a whiff of it from straight out of the bottle, or dab it to your palms or the bottom of your feet for relaxation. Do NOT ingest or consume geranium oil internally. It is only intended for topical use, or via diffuser/aromatizer.

The list of how many things this oil can be used for is astonishing! If you’d like to learn more about geranium oil, or other essential oils I have more comprehensive articles at my website suzycohen.com.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Court Finds In Favor Of Applicant: New Hotel To Be Developed In Toms River

By: Vinny DelRiccio, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

On August 30, 2022, the Superior Court of New Jersey entered an order in favor of the Toms River Planning Board’s decision to approve refurbishment of an existing motel, into a new and updated hotel to be located just off of Rt. 37 in Toms River. The applicant, who was represented by the law firm of R.C. Shea and Associates, sought approval to develop a modern hotel which would cater to the business traveler guest. The application for development was opposed by a rival business entity, who owned various other hotels within the town.

Despite having ample time to prepare, the objecting party appeared before the Planning Board without any expert witnesses and attempted to seek an adjournment of the application. The Board denied this request and took testimony from the applicant’s experts. The experts were also questioned by the objecting party, as well as members of the public, after

which, the Board voted to approve the application.

The objecting party brought suit in Superior Court against the applicant and the Planning Board, alleging among other things, that the hearing was never opened to public comment, and that the Board was obligated to grant his adjournment request. At the trial R.C. Shea and Associates, on behalf of the applicant, successfully argued against each of the objecting party’s claims. In entering a decision for the applicant, the Court found that the Board complied with all of the required procedures, and that the objecting competitor was not entitled to a further delay of the hearing. Furthermore, the Court found that the applicant had satisfied all required proofs to warrant a grant of the application.

If you are seeking approval for a development application, please give the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call for a consultation.

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

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Seeking Home

Senior veteran - looking for room to rent. 609-389-4906. (2)

For Rent

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

Items For Sale

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Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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Items Wanted

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Help Wanted

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/

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P/T

MONEY? - Looking for responsible

to

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3D Artist (Job#: Artist1018) sough by Bonfire Productions, LLC in Toms River, NJ: Working closely w/ Creative Dir on animation & dsgn projs w/ many clnts. Dsgn complex graphics & animation using 3D pgrms such as Autodesk Maya, Redshift, Substance Painter, & using Adobe Photoshop. Create basic dsgns, dwgs, & illustrations for product labels, cartons, direct mail, or TV. Create 2D & 3D images depicting objects in motion or illustrating process, using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe AfterEffects, Substance Painter, & Autodesk Maya. Go thru look-dvlpmt process, make objects or characters appear lifelike by manipulating light, color, texture, shadow, & transparency of each 3-D model, or manipulating static images to give illusion of motion. Req: Bach's Deg in Computer Art, Visual Effects & Animation; 6mth work exp as 3D Artist, Animator, or rel; Prof in Autodesk Maya, Redshift, Substance Painter, Adobe Photoshop, & Adobe AfterEffects. Telecommunication is offered w/i NY/NJ area. Apply, mail CV w/ Job# to 105 Flag Point Rd, Toms River, NJ 08753. (1)

Services

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Services

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Services Services Services

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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*

Asian New Year

Elvis’ “__ Dog”

Camera setting that does everything except point and shoot

Ocean County Library Announces Year-End Holiday Schedule

OCEAN COUNTY – All Ocean County Library branches and reading centers will be closed, December 24, December 25, and December 26. Normal operating hours will resume December 27.

All OCL branches and reading centers will be open during normal operating hours December 31. They will be closed January 1 and January 2. Normal oper-

ating hours will resume January 3. For patron convenience, book drops will be accessible at all branches and reading centers.

Patrons are welcome to use the Library’s online resources, databases, eBooks, eMagazines, video and audio streams and digital classes. They are available continuously at theoceancountylibrary.org.

Waretown First Aid Squad Seeking New Members

WARETOWN – Help keep free EMS in Waretown. The Waretown First Aid Squad (WFAS) is in need of new members. Ages 16 and up, no experience needed. Eligible for free training, college tuition credit.

Potential real estate tax credit, LOSAP funding and so much more.

For more information call, email or visit website: 609-693-3699, info@waretownfirstaid.com, waretownfirstaid.com.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): An attitude of working together for the common good helps everyone get their projects completed. During the first half of the upcoming week, feel free to ask for assistance. Pay attention to timely advice.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Being impartial allows you to be a fair referee. By being fair and friendly, you can smooth over a situation between opposing factions to everyone’s benefit. Making money could be a priority in the beginning of the week.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In the week ahead, you may learn that there is no clear-cut winner if discord doesn’t end on a win-win. Although you might win a debate, you could lose by alienating someone. Avoid polarizing situations that could hurt others.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Practice can never make you perfect but absolutely makes you better. Want to improve your performance? Work at it. In the week ahead, a partner or loved one might inspire you to stretch your muscles or test new techniques.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Highlight the positive and embrace windfalls and miracles. Being an optimist will attract opportunities and make you more appealing to others in the week ahead. Make a conscious effort to give thanks for all the good things.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Outward appearances could be deceiving. In the upcoming week, you should dig deeply into information to reveal the facts before you make a commitment. Do extra homework before taking on any new projects.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may have plenty of social activities on your calendar as the week unfolds. A minor misunderstanding with a loved one could be triggered by doubts in your own mind. Self-care will help you keep things proportionate.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Everyone loves being right, but you learn more by being open. When you embrace constructive criticism, it can lead you into leveling up. In the week to come, welcome someone’s helpful insights.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t play favorites. Find a solution that will offer advantages and benefits to everyone equally. Your generosity and optimism could be admired in the week ahead but beware of extravagant expenditures.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Party like its 1999; your social life could be more active than usual. Balance it with enough self-pampering. Achieving your ambitions may seem all important today but as the week unfolds you might wish you could slow down.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You can get there sooner by taking a good shortcut. Don’t wipe yourself out when it’s possible to achieve your goals with less effort. In the upcoming week, enjoy more free time to hand out and enjoy others.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Keep energies in balance. It can be easier to receive buy-in and support when you also find ways to be generous and make compromises yourself. In the week ahead, it could be easy to display the power of your convictions.

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