2023-01-07 - The Howell Times

Majority Of Howell’s 2023 Council Are Newcomers

Board Honors Exemplary Educators Of The Year

By Alyssa Riccardi

HOWELL – A total of 21 teachers from the Howell Township School District were recently recognized as they were selected to be NJ Department Of Education Exemplary Educators of the Year.

At the December 7 Howell Board of Education meeting, the Board honored the selected teachers who showed true dedication to their profession.

The New Jersey Exemplary Educator award is a state-wide recogni -

tion for teachers who have a positive impact on their students, colleagues, and the school community. They also possess a clear vision for quality teaching and learning.

The program invites school administrators

(Top left):

F. Licitra.

(Top right): Susan Fischer is sworn into office by attorney

By Stephanie Faughnan

Konzelmann. (Bottom): Ian Nadel was sworn in by Sheriff Shaun Golden. say that they haven’t been preparing for their roles.

HOWELL – Around 100 people attended the Township Council’s January 2nd Reorganization Meeting and witnessed the swearing-in of the municipality’s three newly elected council members.

Republicans Susan Fischer, Fred Gasior, and Ian Nadel are all newcomers to local government seats. However, that’s not to

After he was sworn in by Monmouth County Commissioner Ross F. Licitra, Gasior offered some insight regarding the work the three have already begun since the election.

Gasior held up a thick binder packed with (Council - See Page 3)

ANCHOR Rebate Given New Date

every year to nominate up the three educators from grades Pre-K to 5 and 6 to 12. They alternate every year, this year being Pre-K to 5 receiving the awards. “This annual program (EducatorsSee Page 4)

By Chris Lundy

MONMOUTH COUNTY – If you didn’t get a chance to apply for the new version of the Homestead Rebate program at the end of the year, don’t worry, you can still drop ANCHOR until January 31.

The ANCHOR property tax

relief program originally had a deadline of December 30. It was bumped to January 31, which is good for people who get busy during the holidays. State offices have been publicizing the additional time.

“For the residents of New Jersey,

(ANCHOR - See Page 2)

─Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

Fred Gasior was sworn in by Monmouth County Commissioner Ross

Robert

affordability is the most pressing issue and property taxes are the greatest burden,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “We are making use of resources to address this need by helping homeowners and renters with direct financial assistance. Extending the deadline will give our residents a greater ability to take advantage of

a program that will help make their lives more affordable.”

ANCHOR dropped in September. It is replacing the Homestead Rebate. It is picking up where Homestead left off, which is why it references 2019 in the application.

According to the state, more than 870,000 homeowners with incomes up to $150,000 will receive $1,500 in relief; over 290,000 homeowners with incomes over $150,000 and up to $250,000 will receive $1,000; and

over 900,000 renters with incomes up to $150,000 will receive $450 to help offset rent increases.

The application for the Affordable NJ Communities for Homeowners and Renters (ANCHOR) should have already been mailed to your home. All payments will begin going out in late spring, regardless of when you filed.

As opposed to the Homestead Rebate, which sent the money straight to your town

to pay your tax bill, these will be issued as checks or direct deposit. Additionally, they are not subject to federal or State income tax.

Who Can File?

To be eligible for this year’s benefit, homeowners and renters must have occupied their primary residence on October 1, 2019 and file or be exempt from NJ income taxes. Your 2019 NJ gross income needs to be less than $250,000.

Eligible homeowners can apply online, by phone, or via paper application, which can be downloaded online and returned by mail. Tenants can apply online, or download the application from the Taxation website and return by mail (there is no phone option for tenants, as this is the first time this group will be eligible for property tax relief).

For more information, visit nj.gov/treasury/taxation/anchor/ and check out the extensive Frequently Asked Questions. If you don’t find your answer there, call the hotline at 1-888-238–1233.

For Renters

Tenants (renters) who had previously been ineligible because their unit is under a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement are now eligible to apply for the benefit.

“When we say we are delivering bold, direct property tax relief to working and middle-class New Jerseyans we mean it,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “Expanding eligibility for renters and extending the deadline only strengthens that commitment and ensures all who need relief will have the time and awareness to benefit. I thank the Governor, the Senate President, and all our legislative partners for coming together – this truly remains a game-changer for folks who have seen their budgets stretched further and further.”

“I am very grateful to the Governor, Senate President, Speaker and Treasurer for responding as quickly as they have to make renters in buildings with a PILOT eligible for the Anchor Program,” said Senator Joe Vitale. “I alerted them to the issue immediately after receiving a call from a constituent who pays market rate rent in a building whose occupancy is dedicated to veterans. Within two weeks they are announcing a fix to the problem. This is another great example of how one person’s decision to take action will make a difference for thousands of New Jersey renters and ensure this important tax relief reaches everyone it is intended to reach.”

BRICK – 2022 Documentary: In the shadow of the pandemic, a small-town rallies to protect a beloved local bookstore. A landmark in Lenox, Massachusetts. Film will be show on January 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Brick Branch Library. Sign up at theoceancountylibrary.com/events.

information and explained its contents.

“This is a book that we’ve been assembling, each of us,” said Gasior. “With regards to who works for the town, who are on the boards, who are the professionals.”

According to Gasior, he and his running mates have been attending classes and have learned a lot – with more to learn. Gasior said the book would continue to serve as a valuable reference source and emphasized that it is critical to operate from a position of knowledge.

Attorney Robert Konzelmann administered the oath of office to Fischer, while Nadel affirmed his under the direction of Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden. The newly elected council members expressed their gratitude and said they look forward to serving the community.

The Republicans hold a nearly complete majority in Howell’s local government as the three newcomers joined fellow Republican Evelyn O’Donnell to take their seats on the dais. O’Donnell was subsequently nominated, approved, and sworn in as the township’s Deputy Mayor, a position she has held before during her seven years on the council.

After Municipal Court Judge Susan Schroeder Clark administered the oath of office to O’Donnell, the Deputy Mayor gave some brief remarks.

“I couldn’t be more proud to say that I look forward to serving with the three individuals who were just successful in this past

election,” O’Donnell shared. “There are a lot of things that are planned, and we plan to go forward in a progressive manner.”

Mayor Theresa Berger, the governing body’s sole Democrat, was not at the Reorganizational Meeting because her flight to return home was canceled. However, she did have words of encouragement for the upcoming year.

“I am hoping to start a new relationship with the majority to keep our hometown feel in Howell,” Berger said. “It should be fun if they are committed to stopping unnecessary building, and keeping Howell green, and not concrete.”

During their campaigns, Fischer, Gasior, and Nadel expressed their concerns regarding the potential for overdevelopment in Howell. They said they enjoyed the township’s rural character and planned to also work on preserving farmland and open space.

O’Donnell’s opening remarks also included a reminder that Howell’s foundation is a rural foundation, which she referred to as a foundation of community.

The Reorganization Meeting began with a Presentation of Colors by the Howell Township Police Honor Guard. Chaplain Yaakov Wenger performed the invocation after the Pledge of Allegiance.

Several council appointments received unanimous approval during the first meeting of the year. These included professionals that will serve the township and individuals named to boards, committees, and commissions.

Howell Township Council meets again on January 17, 2022, at 7 p.m.

─Photo by Stephanie Faughnan The Township Council reorganization meeting is a time for the governing body to set the tone for the new year.

Educators:

Continued From Page 1

honors diverse educators who have a positive impact on their students and the school community. They may become a candidate for recognition from the county or the state the national levels,” said Bruce Preston, Assistant Superintendent/Curriculum and Personnel.

“When school leaders are hardworking educators, they promote a culture that publicly recognizes excellence, fosters pride in the education profession. I think that’s something this Board really values so much and why we have these opportunities,” Preston added.

Throughout the state, only 180 educators were given this award in 2022. During the Board of Education meeting, each principal from their respective schools presented the awards to their teachers. They discussed what each teacher has accomplished and praised them on the impact they make to the school community.

The following educators were named Exemplary Educators of the Year:

• Adelphia Elementary School – Linda DeSimone

• Aldrich Elementary School – Kim Khouzam; John Newton

• Ardena Elementary School – Tammy O’Gara; Sara Glynn; Patricia Pickering

• Edith M. Griebling Elementary School – Jennifer Careatti; Jill Bohm; Lisa Parshelunis

• Greenville Elementary School – Alyssa Monaco; Danielle Balsamo

• Land O’Pines Elementary School – Michelle Lynn; Michele Stigliano

• Memorial Elementary School – Keri Wright; Amy Steinberg; Danielle Wall

• Newbury Elementary School – Lisa Oliver

• Ramtown Elementary School – Amy Italiano; Berit Burst; Katy Mohr

• Taunton Elementary School – Jessica McPolin

“I appreciate everyone recognizing these incredible educators. A good chunk of the state’s winners are from right here in Howell, and that’s not by accident. Congratulations to all of our recipients for the prestigious honor and we are certainly pleased to have them as our members in our community, taking care of our kids,” Superintendent of Schools Joseph Isola said.

County’s Tourism Division To Host 2023 Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest

FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce the inaugural Monmouth County Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest, which is open now through February 1.

“The winning photo of the Monmouth County Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest will be featured on the cover of the guide that is requested worldwide. Additionally, it will be showcased in future marketing efforts with the photographer’s spotlight placed in the official travel guide. The runners-up will have their photos published in the Guide,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “We can’t wait to see all of the amazing photos of our County!”

To Submit a Cover Contest Photo:

Photo orientation preference is vertical; if horizontal, the image must be at least 3,000 pixels tall

Photo should not exceed 10 MB

Photo must be submitted in JPG format

Photo must not have any watermarks “We invite everyone to grab a camera and capture a photo that shows how Monmouth

County is one of the best tourism destinations in the world,” said Commissioner Director Arnone. “Everyone who would like to help select the winning photo, make sure to visit the Monmouth County Tourism social media pages on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to vote for your favorite!”

Official Rules:

Individuals submitting the photo must be 18 years of age or older and those under 18 years old will need parental consent.

Multiple entries are encouraged.

Photos must be submitted via the website submission form and include all required contact information.

Photos must be taken within Monmouth County, New Jersey. Monmouth County Tourism will select the finalists.

The runners-up will receive placement inside the Travel Guide with photo credit.

The contest will be open until February 1. To learn more, go to tourism.visitmonmouth. com or contact tourism@visitmonmouth.com.

– Photo courtesy Howell Schools Pictured are Amy Italiano, Berit Burst, and Katy Mohr who were some of several teachers named NJ DOE Exemplary Educators.

S potlight o n g overnment

& Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

New Jersey Wins $1.7 Trillion In Federal Funding Bill

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) voted to approve the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus (H.R. 2617), a government funding bill which provides significant investments in health care, transportation, housing, and education programs. Senators Booker and Menendez also fought to secure federal funding in the bill designed exclusively for community projects across New Jersey and for an amendment to provide relief to 9/11 families and other U.S. victims of state-sponsored terrorism.

H.R. 2617 provides $1.7 trillion in funding, which reflects increases in

both non-defense and defense spending over FY22. Overall, the 12 appropriations bills provide $772.5 billion in nondefense funding and $858 billion in defense funding, including $44.9 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine and our NATO allies and $2.4 billion for states who helped resettle Ukrainian refugees.

A number of legislative changes championed by Senator Booker are part of the package, including: making permanent the option that states can provide 12 months of continuous Medicaid or CHIP coverage during postpartum, an effort Sen. Booker has called for in his MOMMIES Act and temporarily secured in the American Rescue Plan; the reauthorization of the Alternative to Opioids in Emergency Departments Reauthorization Act, a Booker bill that establishes a grant pro -

gram for developing and implementing alternatives to opioids for pain management in hospitals and emergency departments; Sen. Booker’s Enslaved Voyages Memorial Act, which authorizes the establishment of a memorial in Washington, DC, to honor enslaved persons who were forcibly transported across the Atlantic; Sen. Booker’s bipartisan Emergency Savings Act, legislation to help Americans save for unexpected expenses through workplace emergency savings accounts; an additional $50 million for community violence intervention efforts; Booker’s bipartisan FDA Modernization Act that would end the outdated requirement that experimental drugs be tested on animals, instead allowing for non-animal testing when appropriate; a modified version of Sen. Booker’s Right Whale Coexistence Act to establish a new federal grant program to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale; and additional funding

for Small Business Administration to support entrepreneurship.

Senator Menendez secured several legislative victories in the package including: a five-year extension of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, the first funding increase for this vital program in a long time; an additional 200 new graduate medical education (GME) positions to respond to the dire need for mental health professionals; and fiveyear funding for Puerto Rico’s Medicaid with a Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) of 76%. Additionally, key provisions from Sen. Menendez’s bipartisan, bicameral DIVERSE Trials Act to help improve patient access to and diversity in clinical drug and treatment trials, as well as the reauthorization of the Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) included in the Senator’s Pursing Equity in Mental Health Act (S.1795), were also both included in the omnibus spending package.

New Jersey Partners With Lions Gate Films Inc.

TRENTON - The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced the award of the first-ever Studio Partner designation under the Garden State Film and Digital Media Jobs Act. The designation was awarded to Lions Gate Films Inc., which is set to lease space at the Newark studio currently under construction by Great Point Studios, after approval by the NJEDA Board.

“Awarding this designation is a major step in New Jersey’s evolution as a film and television destination,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Bringing studios like Lions Gate to New Jersey will allow us to attract more and larger productions to our state and will create good, high-paying jobs for our residents.”

The designation awarded to Lions Gate is one of only three available under the film and digital media tax incentive program and will allow the studio partner to capture additional above-the-line wage and salary costs as qualified expenses. Above-the-line

wages and salary are payments made to highly paid individuals like directors, producers, writers, and performers. The studio partner may include in its application for tax credits above-the-line wages and salary expenses of up to $15 million, $25 million, $40 million, or $60 million depending on the amount of qualified film production expenses involved in the project. In addition, $100 million of the allocation for film and digital media tax credits is set aside for studio partners.

“This is great news for New Jersey’s flourishing film and television industry,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Lions Gate will be a welcome addition to the film landscape, and we look forward to seeing the ‘Filmed in New Jersey’ logo on Lions Gate films for years to come.”

Great Point Studios Co-Founder Robert Halmi said of the announcement, “This is a wonderful development for the many entertainment industry workers and performers in New Jersey and for the state itself. It could not have come about without the help of Governor Phil Murphy, who recognized the importance of this vast project to Newark, the state, and the region.”

Originally created under the Garden State Film and Digital Media Jobs Act, the New Jersey Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program provides a credit against the corporation business tax and the gross income tax for expenses incurred to produce certain films and digital media content in New Jersey.

The project sits on the former site of the Seth Boyden Housing complex in the South Ward section of Newark. The total planned costs are estimated to exceed $194 million to construct and fit out the 350,000- square-foot studio development.

When complete, the project will include five production stages ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 square feet and will offer a full set of production services on site, including grip and electric, equipment, props, set building, restaurants, location catering, cleaning service and security. Once fully operational, initial projections anticipate over 600 new full-time jobs will be created as a part of the development of this facility. The project site will be developed and operated by Great Point Studios, which operates Lions Gate’s new studio complex in Yonkers, NY.

On September 15, 2022, Great Point Studios entered into a ten-year sixmonth lease with Lions Gate Films, Inc. for a substantial portion of the Newark studio complex. Pursuant to

the lease Lions Gate Films Inc. has committed to occupy 253,000 square feet of the development

Construction work commenced on September 16, 2022, and the studio complex is expected to be completed by September 2024.

Founded in 1998, Lions Gate Films Inc. is a subsidiary of Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. Lions Gate’s film and television subscription and location-based entertainment businesses include a library of over 17,000 titles including many iconic film and television franchises such as Mad Men, Orange is the New Black, The Hunger Games, La La Land, and the Twilight Saga.

Senator Robert Menendez

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

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C ommunity n ew

Life Line Screening

HOWELL – Life Line Screening, the nation’s leading provider of preventive health screenings, will offer affordable, non-invasive and painless health screenings at Southard Fire Dept. No.1 on January 26 at 9 a.m.

A package of four screenings to identify cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions will be offered:

• Carotid artery ultrasound that scans the carotid arteries for buildup of fatty plaqueone of the leading causes of strokes.

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound screening for an abdominal aneurysm that

could lead to a ruptured aorta.

• Heart Rhythm Screening (AFIB) A quick and easy test using a 6-lead EKG placed on the arms and legs to identify the presence or absence of an irregular heartbeat.

• Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening-Evaluates for PAD in the lower extremities, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Schedule your appointment today and receive special package pricing. Register by calling toll free 1-866-964-1386, text the word “circle” to 797979, or register online at llsa.social/HC.

Knights Of Columbus To Sponsor Youth Free Throw Contest

HOWELL – The Father Cetkowski Council of the Knights of Columbus (Howell/ Jackson) is sponsoring the annual Basketball Free Throw Contest. All boys and girls ages 9 through 14 are invited to participate. This event is free.

The competition will be held on January 15 at St. Veronica Gym located at 4219 Route 9 in Howell. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. and the competi -

tion will begin at 1 p.m. Winners of the competition will move onto the district competition.

All contestants on the local level will be recognized for their participation in the event. Participants are required to furnish proof of age (i.e. birth certificate) and written parental consent. For entry forms or more information contact Frank Schear: mrmojo4477@gmail.com.

Boys Lacrosse Winter Training

HOWELL – Howell PAL’s Boys Lacrosse Clinics will be directed by Anthony Bonjavanni- Head Coach at Howell HS. Coach Bonjavanni was recently named the Shore Conference Lacrosse- Coach of the Year in ‘22. He is entering his 10th season at Howell and currently serves as a School Counselor at the high school. Additional staff will be added to ensure a proper player-to-coach ratio. There will be two clinics: January Clinic - The K to 4th clinic will focus

on teaching the fundamental skills of the game through fun instructional drills. Only sticks and cleats are necessary.

February Clinic - The 5 to 8th clinic will focus on skill development, while mirroring the pace of a high school practice. Full pads with sticks and cleats.

Note: No faceoff or goalie specific training will be provided. Any questions, direct them to Coach Bonjavanni at abonjavanni@frhsd.com.

The Casual Birder At Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center

HOWELL – Join a Park System Naturalist for a laid-back morning bird walk at the Manasquan Reservoir, Howell on January 17 at 9 a.m.

Meet at the Environmental Center. We’ll

meander for about an hour and a half and see what birds we can find. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy this walk. A limited number of binoculars will be available on a first come basis. Free!

Wondrous Winter Walk At Manasquan Reservoir

HOWELL – Toss on your winter gear and tag along with a Park System Naturalist as you explore the Manasquan Reservoir, Howell, in the wintertime on January 18 at 10 a.m.

Meet in the Environmental Center parking lot. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Please Note: Sturdy footwear recommended, trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over. Free!

The Howell Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

“Adopt-A-Family” Giveaway

HOWELL – The Howell Township “Adopt-A-Family” Giveaway is just one of many reasons on how great Howell Township residents and businesses are!

This year alone, over 65 families and 175 individual Howell children were able to be taken care of for the holidays. We are beyond grateful and overwhelmed by the amount of compassion, support and thoughtfulness on how the family’s needs were fulfilled. From looking at their lists and getting some of their interests, adding

wrapping paper or little stockings, there was a lot of thought and creativity put in this year. With additional gift cards donated, we were able to provide every family some sort of denomination.

Once again, thank you to all the businesses, residents and Department of Community Relations elves who was involved! Your time and effort has been much appreciated and the needs of the community could have not been met without you!

Breakfast Bonanza Networking

HOWELL – Meet other chamber members, network with local businesses, share what’s happening with your business and any upcoming events/promotions.

The next Howell Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Bonanza Networking will be on January 10 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Big City Bagels, Route 9, Aldrich Road, Howell. Cost to attend is $7 for members, $14 for

not yet members, whether you eat or not (cash only). Includes coffee/tea and a bagel with butter or cream cheese. If you wish to order a different item, you will have a $6 credit (the additional $1 is gratuity for staff) and you pay the restaurant the difference over $6. Not yet members are welcome to attend up to two Chamber meetings/events.

– Photo courtesy Howell Township

“Deck The Howells” Winners Announced

HOWELL – Congratulations to all the winners in the 1st Annual “Deck the Howells” Holiday Decorating Contest. The Township appreciates everyone who took part and drove around to view each of the houses. Big

Photo courtesy Howell

thank you to the participants and Certified Auto Mall for sponsoring this event!

1st Place Overall: 23 Lorelei Drive

2nd Place Overall: 68 Starlight Road

3rd Place Overall: 14 Colleen Court

Senior Center Annual Holiday Party

HOWELL – The Howell Senior Center had their annual Holiday Party on Friday, December 16 at Jack Baker’s Lobster Shanty. The Pickles Band was the entertainment and kept the seniors and staff dancing throughout the entire event. This was the first holiday party since December 2019 so

everyone was excited to celebrate again. If you are interested in joining the Howell Senior Center or would like to know about the programs and services they offer, give a call at: 732-938-4500 ext. 2550 or you can check us out on the Township Website at twp.howell.nj.us.

Township

–Photo courtesy Howell Township

Radiothon Raises $97,117 To Help Seriously Ill Newborns At The Jersey Shore

FREEHOLD – 107.1 The Boss and Ashley Homestore hosted the 5th Annual Mistletoe Rock Radiothon powered by Hutchins HVAC to benefit Michael’s Feat a 501c3 non-profit organization. The radiothon took place at Freehold Raceway Mall on December 10 and raised $15,279 for the organization this year and a grand total of $97,117 since its inception.

Michael’s Feat provides comfort and support for families carrying and caring for seriously ill newborns. They offer families in need direct financial support, overnight bags filled with supplies for hospital stays, furniture and medical equipment, meals, gas cards, and when necessary, respite care and bereavement support.

Throughout the day interviews were conducted with families who told touching stories about their journey in the NICU and how Michael’s Feat benefited them immensely. 107.1 The Boss’s Robby and Rochelle in the Morning kicked off the radiothon and were followed by Michele Amabile and Van Dusen.

Donations were made onsite by generous patrons of the Freehold Raceway Mall at the CentraState Live Broadcast Center. Thoughtful 107.1 The Boss listeners donated to the AJ Perri Phone Bank and New Jersey Natural Gas Online Donation Center and Auction featuring a Stone Pony work hard, play hard prize pack, 5- person round

trip helicopter skyline tour of NYC donated by Monmouth Jet Center, Earth Treasures Diamond Necklace, Jets Football tickets and a pair of 1-year Atlantic Club memberships. Monthly reoccurring donors were dubbed “Michael’s Feat Monarchs” and earned their wings with a commemorative butterfly t-shirt as a gift for their ongoing support of the organization, made possible by Puharic & Associates Insurance Agency. All Radiothon donors were eligible to win a “Brilliant Swag Bag” including over $1,600 in prizes, courtesy of Brilliant Environmental Services.

On December 14, the 5th Annual Mistletoe Rock after party was held at Bar Anticipation in Lake Como. The party was headlined by local ninety’s tribute band Nine Deeez Nite on the Napa Auto Parts of Shrewsbury Stage, and on-site donations were also collected for Michael’s Feat.

The 5th Annual Mistletoe Rock Radiothon was also made possible by Irwin Lincoln & Irwin Mazda, Chef Mike’s ABG, Vin Gopal Civic Association, Four Boys Ice Cream, Bridging the Gap, At-Home Recreation, Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center, Joe Leone’s Catering, Outlast Aesthetics, and more.

For more information about the Mistletoe Rock Radiothon, its partners, or how to still donate, email info@PressCommRadio. com.

–

Photo courtesy Press Communications

photo of the week

Around the JerSey Shore

“Illuminations: A Celebration Of Light In Art”

MARLBORO – Marlboro High School’s Art department is presenting “Illuminations: A Celebration of Light in Art,” featuring students’ artwork on lanterns, luminaries, and sculptures. The classroom has been transformed

and the showcase is open throughout the school day for students and staff to tour. Art teachers Barbara Casella, Lauren Fraser, and Johanna Zeller led students in experimenting with new mediums on these projects.

This is the first edition of 2023! Happy New Year everyone!! This photo was taken by one of our favorite photographers, Kylie Monica, on a Jersey Shore beach. We hope you all have a great new year. If you want to see your photo featured in this section, email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Photo courtesy Freehold Regional

Around the JerSey Shore

Something Spectacular – Berkeley Township, New Jersey

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Near my house is a waterway that runs beneath Charlotteville Road from one side to another. For weeks there had been the carcass of a whitetail deer floating in it. I was waiting to see how nature would play out. A floating meal for some is not possible. Eventually, the carcass rested upon the dam, and by this time with the cold snap, it had frozen.

It was the day after Thanksgiving, 2022, the weather had warmed up, when I took my dog Andi for her walk. As I turned the corner onto Charlotteville Road, my eyes captured an anomaly. I ushered Andi home to grab my cellphone. When I returned, I began snapping as many pictures as I could. This was something spectacular. I scanned the landscape and saw black vultures feeding on this carcass. Not just a few of them, but dozens. A few were feeding, others waiting along the dam, in nearby yards, perched in trees, and others on light posts. All were waiting, some edging their way in, for their chance to feed on this animal they had been eyeing from the sky for weeks. Hallelujah!

In populated communities, you will rarely witness this. Why? Since most larger carcasses will become food for coyotes, foxes, for example, who show up in the quiet evening hours where they might briefly feed on the carcass, even dismembering and carrying some pieces away to feed. How this animal ended up in the waterway is anyone’s guess. Was the deer struck by a car and just ended up collapsing by the waterway? Partial feeding of the animal had occurred prior to the vultures arriving, my guess is the snapping turtles began the process. The carcass took a little more than one day for the vultures to consume.

It’s important for us to understand and ‘appreciate’ the value of all the wild animals. For instance here, we may view vultures as disgusting or even ugly, but they

are naturally designed to do what they do.

It’s what we call ‘the balance in nature.’ To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/or federal permits. Violating New

Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which include harm inflicted upon an animal, are subject to punishment.

Around the JerSey Shore

BlueClaws To Host Virtual Job Fair

By Alyssa Riccardi

JERSEY SHORE – With the 2023 season set to begin on April 11, the team is looking to hire hard-working professionals for a variety of gameday staff positions.

The BlueClaws will host their annual Job Fair virtually between January 16 and 27.

“The BlueClaws have always had tremendously dedicated and valued group of gameday staff members that are integral to our nightly operation,” said BlueClaws team president Joe Ricciutti. “We’re looking forward to another productive job fair as we welcome in our newest staff members for the summer!”

Positions are available in the following departments: Game Day Operations (box office, security, parking, bat boys, kids

zone attendants), Concourse Level Food & Beverage (cashiers, food runners, cooks, portable cart operators, picnic attendants and grill cooks, kitchen positions, and more), Suite Level Food & Beverage (bartenders, suite servers, food runners, and party deck attendants), Back-of-House Food & Beverage (both day and nighttime warehouse positions), Merchandise/Retail (Claws Cove positions), Production (camera operators, music & audio positions, instant replay, and PA-announcer), and Promotions (including on-field emcee, Claws Crew team members, and mascot performers).

“Our gameday staff members work in a fast-paced, fun and exciting environment all summer long, said Kayla Reilly, BlueClaws Director of Events & Operations. “It’s a true family, and we’re looking forward to another successful hiring season.”

How to apply:

General Gameday Positions - indeed.com/ job/part-time-seasonal-game-day-staffb6832697c2c1ca04.

Clean Team positions - indeed.com/job/ clean-team-member-541439bdf1ae788f.

Promotions Team positions - teamworkonline.com/baseball-jobs/southatlanticleague/jersey-shore-blueclaws/ promotions-staff-part-time-2031266

Production Team positions - teamworkonline.com/baseball-jobs/southatlanticleague/jersey-shore-blueclaws/ production-staff-part-time-2031265.

As part of the process, applicants will be able to select positions for which they would like to apply. A BlueClaws representative will be in touch to schedule a virtual interview to take place between January 16 and January 27. Any questions, email employment@bluclaws.com.

All positions are part-time and begin with on-boarding and training in March with Opening Night set for April 11th. Positions run through the team’s last home game in September, though there is opportunity for additional work at team and ballpark events as needed. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by April 1 and pass a background check. Nights and weekends are required. Each position starts at $14.13 per hour.

Learn To Crochet A Mini Basket

JACKSON – Join as we learn to crochet a miniature basket suitable for holding pens or other small items. Participants must know basic crochet. Workshop will take place on January 11 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Jackson Branch Library. Sign up at theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Which Of These 4 Magnesium Supplements Is Right For You?

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

First, you should know that magnesium is an essential mineral required for strong bones and teeth. It plays a crucial role in mood, brain health and cognition.

Having adequate levels of magnesium ensures attention span and focus. Furthermore, low magnesium (relative to calcium) will lead to long-lasting cramps and spasms. Severe hypomagnesemia will lead to cardiac irregularities and palpitations, as well as migraines and hypertension.

You can get magnesium from your diet by eating various foods such as leafy greens, nuts, and yogurt. With the acidification of soil, our crops are magnesium deficient, so you may not get enough. Another cause for magnesium deficiency is drinking a lot of caffeinated beverages or taking proton pump inhibitor (acid-blocking) drugs.

Allow me to briefly explain the various types of magnesium that are sold over the counter and online:

Magnesium Oxide - When people take this type of magnesium, they may develop stomach upset, bloating, diarrhea and a lot of gas. The magnesium breaks off from the oxide, but not very much of it. In other words, you don’t get a lot of magnesium absorption. Think of magnesium like a rock, it’s not going to break apart into tiny little particles and get absorbed well.

Magnesium Citrate - This type of magnesium is sold in tablets and in liquid. The citrate form doesn’t really get to your bones or your brain easily. The green liquid bottles of mag citrate you see at the pharmacy are used to evacuate the bowel prior to imaging procedures. They’re called “saline” laxatives.

Magnesium citrate and oxide forms are perfect to use if you want to relieve constipation, but not for treating magnesium deficiency.

Chelated Magnesium - This is a slightly more expensive form of magnesium than the two listed above. The term “chelate” confuses people sometimes but it just means that the magnesium is bound to another thing (usually glycinate).

It’s a rock that breaks apart easily and therefore the crumbling allows for higher bioavailability. With higher absorption of magnesium into the bloodstream, you now see benefits to the bones, brain, and heart.

MagTein® Magnesium L-ThreonateThis is a chelated, patented brand name of magnesium that is found in high-quality formulas including my own MagFocus® powder which is also available on Amazon. Using my analogy of a rock, you might imagine that MagTein® crumbles into tiny particles. It transports itself out of the gut and goes where it’s needed, especially the brain to help with attention span, relaxation and mood.

Do not opt for cheap forms if you’re treating a chronic condition. It’s apt to cause you embarrassing gas or diarrhea! Some people insist on taking these ‘laxative’ forms of magnesium and think, “I don’t care because it’s so cheap, I’ll just take more!” Don’t.

Consuming extra pills to compensate for poor bioavailability is harmful. It just causes a significant laxative effect and one that comes on quickly. You may not have time to get to the bathroom! If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, visit my website, suzycohen.com.

RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

REHAB:

*Top performer who’s hopelessly off course?

protester’s emotion?

Birdbrain, or an extinct bird

Claim with confidence

Confusion result

Home to the van Eycks’ “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”

Rhine siren

Europe’s Bay of __

Chant

Record setters

“And all that beauty, all that wealth __ gave ... “: Gray

Remove with difficulty

“My Lord!”

Wanton gazes

Sgt., e.g.

“What’s the __?”

CLASSIFIEDS

Cockapoo Pups - Females - great personalities, health cert, shots, parents on site. 321-377-4000. (4)

Misc.

Pets For Sale For Rent

Notice of Cessation of Services

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

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE

JEWELRY 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)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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

Storage Space - Non-commercial use approx. 800sf Manchester Jackson or surrounding area. Electric A Plus. 732-278-5098. (4)

Cash Paid LP Records - 33/45's, reel to reel's. Fast response, we answer the phone 732-829-5908, 24/7, Eddie. (41)

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, wardrobes, 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)

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

Services Services Services Items For Sale

- $500. 36x80 Doggy Storm Door. New - $50. Adult Tricycle. New - $50. Call 732-703-2176! (4)

Room For Rent - In Toms River, NJ. Couples allow. $1100. Call 201-844-5526. (7)

Help Wanted

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/

PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

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

Now Training School Bus Drivers - $3000 Sign on Bonus. Free CDL training. $22-$25 per hour, overtime available. Please call or email for more info: 732-905-5100. klarrtransport@gmail.com. (4)

Dietary Aid - MAGNOLIA GARDENS ASSISTED LIVING. Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill full time, and part time positions. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (7)

RECEPTIONIST - MAGNOLIA GARDENS ASSISTED LIVING. Family owned and operated assisted living community looking to fill full time, and part time positions. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (7)

Services

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)

Get DIRECTV for $64.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-877-557-1213. (t/n)

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

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-791-2033 or visit dorranceinfo.com/micro. (t/n)

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, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n)

Services

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)

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, Shopping, - Window cleaning, laundry, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, 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” instructor. 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 computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. 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, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

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

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, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (46)

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Donate your car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business. Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation. Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by! Call 1-833-885-0359. (t/n)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

Certified Home Health Aides - Needed 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 insured. 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 instrumental music teacher. Please call 732-350-4427 for more information. All are welcome. (3)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner 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)

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

Around the JerSey Shore

Planning Board Presents 2022 Merit Awards

FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Monmouth County Planning Board, presented two organizations with 2022 Merit Awards during a Planning Board meeting held on December 19.

“On behalf of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, I want to commend our award recipients and the Planning Board for taking this opportunity to recognize the great work being done to support our communities,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “I look forward to seeing these organizations and programs grow and enhance our remarkable County.”

“Once again, the Monmouth County Planning Board has done an extraordinary job at recognizing plans, projects and organizations that truly add community value to our great County,” said Commissioner Ross F. Licitra. “Thank you to all the organizations that continue to make Monmouth County a wonderful place to live and visit.”

The 2022 Merit Awards were presented to:

Friends of Jackson Woods, Long Branch Category: Creativity & Innovation; Environmental, Resiliency & Sustainability.

Jackson Woods Park, a 13-acre natural green space in Long Branch that was neglected and damaged by Superstorm Sandy, has been transformed into an area of passive recreation, environmental education, promotion of the arts, preservation of Long Branch’s rich history, while protecting the unique ecosystem of the area and the habitat it provides for local wildlife. This has been done with the support of the City of Long Branch, Monmouth Conservation Foundation, local volunteer organizations, and the Friends of Jackson Woods- led by volunteers Kathy Buchan and Nan Simon.

Parkview AP, Asbury Park. Category: Public Service in Planning (Community & Culture Category); Housing (Development & Redevelopment Category)

Currently only 25% of Asbury Park residents own their homes. One of the best ways to transform a distressed community is to increase opportunities for current residents to become homeowners and Parkview AP provides this opportunity.

The property was vacant for nearly 52 years. The project was one of the recommendations of the Springwood Avenue Redevelopment Plan and West Side Choice Neighborhood

Transformation Plan. Each Parkview AP lot features a 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath single family home fronting Springwood Avenue, and a 1-bedroom rental unit above the adjacent garage. This provides the option for homeowners to rent out the rear unit to help pay their mortgage. The development consists of 3 deed restricted affordable units, and 7 market rate units. The development broke ground in 2020 and is anticipated for completion in 2023. Interfaith Neighbors marketed to the local community, so they had the first opportunity to purchase one of the homes prior to them being listed on the MLS. To date, 6 of the 10

units have been closed on and are occupied, and the other 4 have buyers for the anticipated completion next year.

The Planning Board established the Merit Awards Program in 1984 to recognize those plans, projects, programs, individuals, municipalities, businesses, community leaders and stakeholder organizations that have made a significant contribution to the advancement of planning and planning outcomes in Monmouth County.

For more information, go to visitmonmouth. com or call the Monmouth County Division of Planning at 732-431-7460.

– Photo courtesy Monmouth County

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Do I Need To Challenge An Ordinance?

By: Robert C. Shea II, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

Did you know that you can challenge any Ordinance that may negatively impact your property rights?

An “Ordinance” is a municipal law, rule, or regulation that applies to a specific town or city. Typically, townships pass laws that attempt to protect your right to peace and enjoyment of your property and to ensure the civility of its citizens. However, sometimes a township may pass an Ordinance that negatively impacts your real estate interests. Such an Ordinance usually takes the form of an amendment to the zone where your property is located. A zone is nothing more than an area of a Township which restricts the type of construction or activity allowed within it. Most people live in areas zoned for “residential use.” Restricting the type of construction allowed within a zone is one tool used to prevent the area from morphing into something unintended, like having a factory built next to your home. Each zone has dimensional, or “bulk,” requirements defined by Ordinance. Examples of these dimensional requirements can be seen as the height of the structure and set back requirements for building on the property, which is the minimum distance the structure can be to the property line.

Sometimes a local governing body attempts to pass an Ordinance which changes the character of a zone, thereby negatively impacting its residents. An example of this can be seen by an Ordinance recently passed by the Township of Lakewood. Lakewood Ordinance 2022-46 was passed to allow schools to operate as a

Robert C. Shea Esq.

private banquet hall, at any time, in every non-residential zone simultaneously. In essence, every school is now permitted to host a wedding or other similar event, with little to no municipal approvals or oversite. Such an ordinance will negatively impact its residents in numerous ways, including parking concerns, traffic safety, and noise & light pollution.

But this doesn’t have to happen to you. Before any Ordinance is approved by the local governing body, the public must be given the right to challenge the proposed Ordinance and place their objections on record. Further, the governing body must then render a determination that the Ordinance itself is consistent with the township’s own Master Plan. A Master Plan is a document developed to monitor the use of property within a municipality in order to protect the public from inequitable and chaotic development. So, if an Ordinance is not consistent with the township’s Master Plan then you may be able to prevent the Ordinance from being adopted.

Contact the Attorney’s at R.C. Shea & Associates for your free consultation if you are aware of any potential Ordinances that may negatively impacting your property.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

You’ll Never Be Left High And Dry As Long As Dr. Choxi is By Your Side

By Michael Vandenberg

“There’s always some kind of support available,” for patients struggling with pain, Dr. Sarah Choxi told me in a recent discussion. If you, like many of Garden State Medical Center’s new patients, have been told by other doctors that nothing could be done to alleviate your suffering, it’s time to think again. When you combine the vast treatment options available at GSMC with Dr. Choxi and the rest of their pain management specialists (including founder Dr. Dharam Mann), that negativity simply doesn’t stand a chance.

After all, her interest in helping people has driven her throughout her education and career. She decided to specialize in anesthesiology and interventional pain management because she saw how much those fields could change lives. “It was a way to help patients improve quality of life,” said Dr. Choxi. “It can be really difficult for people when they have pain to go through their normal day by day activities. So it was really important to me as a medical student, later on as a resident, and now as an attending to be able to restore their function and have very independent lives.” People who have conditions that can’t be solved or are difficult to solve deserve the ability to be happy and pain-free.

Formerly at the University of Chicago, Dr. Choxi was drawn to GSMC’s same focus, as well as the innovative tools it has to make it happen. “It’s a very multi-dimensional perspective on managing pain,” she said. Their solutions include medication management, injections, spinal cord stimulators, and countless others that have been proven safe and effective. Oftentimes a combination of techniques works best. “Patients aren’t cookie cutter. They’re very

unique and individual. So I think you need to have a plan in place that caters to their specific needs.”

Garden State Medical Center has always been on the cutting edge, so it’s only natural for them to have so much under their umbrella. If Dr. Choxi thinks you need to see a rheumatologist, don’t start looking at next month’s calendar; you can see one of her rheumatologist colleagues in-house in a matter of days. She’ll probably even share her notes with them on their state-of-the-art electronic database, which will also help you to stay informed about your own care.

Being in-the-know about the options available to you is an important part of the culture at GSMC. Dr. Choxi remembers one patient in particular who was desperate for answers. She had heel surgery and, although it had physically healed, she was still feeling a ton of pain. Unfortunately, the surgeon had been dismissive, telling her that there was no reason for her to be feeling discomfort. “She felt a little pushed around by him and sort of just pushed out the door,” Dr. Choxi remembered her saying. When she saw the patient, she told her, “No matter what, we’ll figure this out together.” Dr. Choxi gave her options: five to be exact.

The patient decided to go with an injection called a sympathetic nerve block, and just like that she achieved 90 percent relief. It was a life-changing difference, giving her the ability to ex -

a couple hours and enjoy herself. Previously, anything longer than ten minutes used to be unbearable. “I’m finally able to just enjoy the weather outside,” the patient told her. “I’m so glad that you could give me options and I know that I can trust you.”

perience basic joys again in ways lots of people take for granted. Recently she went to a flea market with her husband and could actually just walk around for

Trust in a doctor gives patients the courage to pursue the treatment they feel most comfortable with. Luckily, after Dr. Choxi gives you the most effective and safest options, she’s happy let you

make the ultimate choice. Unfamiliar with how some of these methods work? She’ll happily go over everything with you at length and answer any questions. In addition, GSMC has models in every room to help patients visualize what doctors are describing. There are even televisions in all the offices with videos that give patients a full rundown of procedures and illustrations on how they’re performed.

It’s all because Dr. Choxi’s patients “know that they’re

going to get the care they deserve”. To get started, call 1-888-376-2661 today to schedule an appointment, or feel free to visit gsmedicalcenter.org to learn more on the procedures Garden State Medical Center provides. Dr. Choxi currently practices at 780 Route 37 West, Suite 110 and 1314 Hooper Avenue, Building B, Suite 101 in Toms River; 1100 Route 70, Entrance A in Whiting; 1608 Route 88, Suite 102 in Brick; and 100 Route 36, Suite #1K in West Long Branch.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Tiny misunderstandings can put you in an awkward position as the new week and new year begins. You may be overconfident, be careless, or go overboard. Your enthusiasm, however, makes everyone happy to be around you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): It is a new year, and the question is whether you are ready to be a new you. Clear the decks: Think about ways to clear up outstanding debts and any other old business to prepare for a beautiful new beginning.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You’re pretty limited if your only tool is a hammer. In the upcoming week, you might want to believe that every problem can be handled quickly, but you’ll make more progress if you broaden your problem-solving skills.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Be open to messages from the universe and key information may arrive that empowers you to improve your outlook. You can rest on your laurels or move forward to achieve your goals in the new year.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Feast on thoughts and plans for the future. You could embrace limitless possibilities as you make your New Year’s resolutions. Be sure to attend to relationships if loved ones might have been feeling a bit neglected.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Sleep late or do some other replenishing self-care. Rest up and enjoy a relaxing day at home or playing with your tribe. Make a note to remind yourself to follow up on recent opportunities that seemed intriguing.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get organized and make a list of the things you want to do and places you want to visit. You may not be able to afford everything now, but you can save up for the future. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance in the week ahead.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Even if you are busy and preoccupied in the week ahead, you may also need to help a loved one or partner who may need some extra support. Do your best to bring some bright New Year’s energy to the situation.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take pride in your accomplishments. This is a week when you can enjoy the perks of having a good reputation. Set your sights on becoming financially stable and avoid spending too much money on extravagances.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Being deep in your emotions is the worst time to make a major decision or vow. Take time to understand a situation rather than reacting with a knee-jerk response. You do not need to take this personally.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Ask the right questions if you want the right answers. Pause to ask yourself what will truly make you happy and contented before you make New Year’s resolutions. Go beyond just considering the same old objectives.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Dip your toe in the pool to check the temperature before you dive in. In the week ahead, you should test the atmosphere before you make changes or decisions that affect loved ones. Use caution to not overspend.

IT’S COOKIE SEASON! GRAB THE KIDS AND GET READY TO BAKE (AND DECORATE)

By America’s Test Kitchen

GLAZED SUGAR COOKIES

Makes 12 to 18 cookies (depending on the size of your cookie cutters)

For the cookies:

1 1/2 cups (7 1/2 ounces) all-purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup (3 1/2 ounces) sugar

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces and chilled

For the glaze:

1 1/3 cups (5 1/3 ounces) confectioners’ (powdered) sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened

1-2 drops food coloring (optional)

For the cookies:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and vanilla.

2. In a food processor, process until sugar is finely ground, about 30 seconds. Add chilled butter and process until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add egg mixture and flour mixture and process until no dry flour is visible and mixture forms crumbly dough, about 30 seconds.

3. Use a rubber spatula to transfer dough to the center of

a large sheet of parchment paper on the counter. Use your hands to pat dough into a 7-by-9-inch oval. Place a second large sheet of parchment on top of dough. Use a rolling pin to roll dough into a 10-by-14-inch oval (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick), rolling dough between parchment.

4. Slide dough (still between parchment) onto one baking sheet. Refrigerate until dough is firm, at least 1 1/2 hours.

5. While dough is chilling, adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and heat oven to 300 degrees. Line a second baking sheet with parchment.

6. When dough is ready, remove dough from refrigerator. Gently peel off top sheet of parchment. Use cookie cutters to cut dough into shapes.

7. Use spatula to transfer shapes to parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 1/2 inch apart. (If dough becomes too warm and sticky to transfer shapes easily, return it to the refrigerator to firm up again, about 10 minutes.)

8. Bake cookies until beginning to brown around edges, 18 to 22 minutes.

9. Transfer baking sheet on cooling rack and let cookies cool completely on baking sheet, about 30 minutes.

For the glaze:

1. While cookies are cooling, in a second medium bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, milk, softened cream cheese, and 1 to 2 drops of food coloring (if using). Use a clean rubber spatula to stir until very smooth.

2. Use a small icing spatula or the back of a spoon to spread glaze in an even layer on each cookie, starting in the middle and working yourway to the edges. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle it with sanding sugar, sprinkles, crushed cookies or candy. Serve.

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

For the week of jan 7 - jan 13

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

By Jeraldine Saunders