2023-01-07 - The Southern Ocean Times

Movies Under The Stars At The Iconic Manahawkin Drive-In

once stood.

(Inset): A sample pair of the speakers used at drive-in movies

By Stephanie Faughnan

MANAHAWKIN - Advertisements splashed across the digital billboard near the intersection of Routes 72 and 9 aren’t exactly a novel use of the same space.

For a number of decades, the identical location used big letters to broadcast the names of feature movies shown on a large outdoor screen. The Manahawkin DriveIn Theatre’s grand marquee may

Senator Connors Won’t Seek Re-Election

By Chris Lundy

TRENTON – After decades in politics, Sen. Christopher Connors announced he won’t seek re-election in the fall.

“It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to serve the people of the 9th Legislative District. I have always held a strong commitment to serving the community and have always thought of my constituents as my extended family,” he said. “However, after thoughtful consideration,

I have decided not to seek re-election to the State Legislature after 33 years of service. This was certainly a difficult decision, but I feel in my heart that this is the right time to step aside, especially as running for re-election would require serving a fouryear term.”

The Lacey Republican had a long career in politics. He was first elected to the Lacey Township Committee in 1984, serving

(Connors - See Page 7)

be long gone, but certainly not forgotten. While some news organizations and bloggers point to the Bed Bath & Beyond/Kohls/Home Depot (Movies - See Page 4)

Off Duty Officer Lauded For Lifesaving

By Chris Lundy LITTLE EGG HARBOR

– Off-duty State Department of Corrections officer Chad Ammerman received a prestigious award for saving the life of an elderly boater in distress.

On June 21, 2021, a sailboat capsized in the waters off Little Egg. John L. McKenna, 82, was riding in it but was unable to get back in.

Fortunately, Ammerman was in the area

and heard his cries for help. He called 911. Then, he grabbed an empty plastic cooler to use as a flotation device and jumped into the water. Bystanders helped guide him in the right direction from the shore. He swam about 300 yards to get to the man. When he reached him, he told McKenna to grab one handle of the cooler and he backstroked toward a bulkhead. A firefighter in a boat swung toward them and helped him onto (Officer - See Page 7)

─Photos by Stephanie Faughnan and Ric Walters

Former projectionist Steve Lundy stands in front of the digital billboard where the Manahawkin’s grand marquee

shopping center as the site of the old Manahawkin Drive-In, property records show otherwise. The Holiday Inn Mainland and Adventure Park now stands on the land once leased by the legendary entertainment venue from the late Toms River attorney Joseph Citta.

From possibly the late 1950s until the late 1970s, the Manahawkin Drive-In was the hot place to go for families, teens, and lovers of all ages.

Some folks would forego the sound and take in the big screen alone settled across the street at the Manahawkin Lake.

Summer vacationers and locals alike piled their kids into station wagons even before the onset of dusk. Children hit the playground onsite and pestered their parents for popcorn and treats from the refreshment stand. Many had already donned pajamas and would later be carried into their beds.

“My parents bought our vacation house on LBI in 1967,” Leslie Brower shared. “I grew up summering there and remember you could actually view the movies showing from Route 72 as your drove by the theatre.”

Ric Waters, who graduated from Southern Regional High School in 1981, has lived in different parts of the Long Beach Island since he was a child. Waters’ father taught at the high school and was a familiar face with the kids who manned the theatre’s drive-in ticket booth.

The minute Ric’s father stuck his head

out of the window and took his hat off, an arm would surface from the ticket booth and wave the family car through at no cost. Meanwhile, the Waters weren’t the only ones who made it past the line.

At times, the Manahawkin Drive-In ran specials charging $1 for entire carloads to enter the lot. Some squished together in both the front and back seats, while others stuffed themselves into trunks. Later they’d move to the hoods or roofs of their cars to take in the movies under the stars.

One big pest was the onslaught of mosquitos that some described as the size of hummingbirds. Repellant cords seemed to do nothing to ward off the angry buggers, other than leaving a burning sensation behind.

“On Friday and Saturday nights we all used to get together,” recalled Diane McCabe, 69. “We would get in the back of my boyfriend’s pick-up truck and watch the movies and hang out together.”

McCabe, who lived in Barnegat as a teenager said the drive-in movies were one of two places locally that offered any kind of fun. The other was the skating ring located near the Manahawkin Flea Market on East Bay Avenue.

Those were the days local movies listings appeared in print newspapers such as the Asbury Park Press Evening News and even papers as far away as the Philadelphia Inquirer

Back in 1959, the “Return of the Fly” was one of two horror movies to hit the big screen. A few years later in 1965, Sean Connery starred as James Bond 007 in a double feature showing “Dr. No” and “From

Russia with Love.”

By the time 1971 hit, the drive-in theatre came up with an added attraction. A short newspaper article promoted a dance contest between the June presentation of “Gimme Shelter” by the Rolling Stones and the Beatles’ “Let it Be.”

Legend has it that at least one streaker made it across the big screen in 1974, the same year an American photographer and gallery owner did the same at the Academy Awards.

Moving ratings didn’t go into effect until 1968, which made it particularly interesting considering the fact that movies could be seen by motorists driving by.

Waters remembered his mother’s horror when the family was returning from Pennsylvania to their home on the island.

“My mom started freaking out all of sudden,” Waters said. “On the screen were a giant pair of female breasts, with a pair of hands touching them.”

The long ride had put most of the family to sleep and not all of the kids necessarily heard their mother’s instructions to put blankets over their heads. Waters was just nine years old at the time and did what he was told – although he did manage to sneak a peek from the rear of the station wagon.

Perhaps the only redeeming part of the picture was that it came without sound. Those who attended drive-in movies at that time required viewers to remove speakers from posts and hook them onto their cars.

Waters has such fond recollections of his time at the drive-in that he’s collected a set of speakers that dates back to the drive-in

movie days. These particular speakers were not used at the Manahawkin Drive-In.

The last advertised movie listing at the Manahawkin Drive-In was for the Harper Valley PTA in 1978. However, some have suggested the theatre didn’t close down until 1981. By September 1982, the property took on a new look as a weekend flea market.

Behind The Screen

Although they were not the original owners of the Manahawkin Drive-In Theatre, Frank Theatres was in charge from at least the early 70s. The group also owned movie theatres on Long Beach Island, and others throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

The website address for Frank Theatres now links to Paragon Theaters, which appears to have subsequently bought out the Frank family after three generations of ownership.

Showings at the Drive-In ran from late spring until early fall with a lot of vacationers crossing back over the bridge to enjoy a movie under the stars.

Steve Lundy, who lived in the area when the drive-in was operational, had many fond memories of working for Frank Theatres while he was still in high school. In addition to the Manahawkin Drive-In Theatre, the Franks owned the Colonial Theatre in Beach Haven and the Colony Theatre in Brant Beach.

When he first began his employment with

(Movies - See Page 5)

Frank Theatres, Lundy primarily worked at the two island theatres, which were both indoor venues. By the mid-1970s, Lundy was a full-time projectionist at the Colonial and Colony Theatres. He did maintenance work at the Manahawkin Drive-In, where he also filled in as a relief projectionist.

As part of Lundy’s maintenance work, he would replace the speakers when they would quit because they were out in the weather all the time. Alternatively, the speaker’s volume system would die after a while. Then, there were the teens who wanted to have a sound system in their cars and snagged them off the poles to bring home.

The theatres used a carbon arc with a lamp with a big parabolic mirror behind it. Bright spotlights converted to movie theater projector lights. The size of the outdoor screen was such that an enormous carbon arc light for the projectors was needed to illuminate more brightness than that required for an indoor theatre.

“The lamps would feed the carbon rods together at a certain rate so they would always stay a certain distance apart,” explained Lundy. “The carbon rods would last through about two or three reels and then needed to be changed.”

“We were running twenty minute reels on each side and would change the projector while one was running and put the new film in for the next twenty minutes,” Lundy continued.

The RCA projectors were considered state of the art at the time. However, as the carbon rods burned, they created smoke that was let out by a chimney.

“The thing that was the shocker for me about the drive-in projection booth was the shower in there,” Lundy shared. “It was so hot in there that in between reels, the projectionist would run in the shower, hose off and dry himself off, and come out.”

One added benefit came at the end of the night when the concession stand was ready to close. Sometimes they had leftover hamburgers and fries and passed them on to the projectionists.

A not so pleasant memory hit Lundy as he recalled his duties associated with the theatre’s marquee out front.

“I was helping this friend put up the names of the movies,” said Lundy. “There were hooks on the back of the letters that hooked onto to the racks. As we put together the name of the movie’s title, one of the letters didn’t hook correctly came down and hooked me right in the nose.”

The letter was made of a flat piece of aluminum and hurt more than a little when it landed.

The Fly-In Drive-In

While many in the generation now referred to as the boomers may recall the Manahawkin Drive-In Theatre, not all realize there was another on Route 72.

A gentleman named Edward I. Brown; Jr. decided patrons might enjoy the novelty concept of a fly-in drive-in outdoor movie theatre at the southern portion of the Jersey

shore.

Brown had already set up the first fly-in drive-in theatre at the Monmouth County Airport on Route 34 in Wall. He figured pilots and their passengers would enjoy watching movies from the cockpit or back seat of their airplanes.

The Asbury Park Evening News reported on the May 10, 1957 ribbon cutting ceremony for the new airport and Fly-In theatre at what is now Walmart on Route 72. Free airplane rides were offered to the first 25 cars that attended the event. Ladies received corsages and kids had the chance to visit the playground and munch on free popcorn.

A radio show hosted by David Ripley of Ripley’s Believe It or Not was so impressed with the concept that they invited Brown to discuss it.

In the end, the Fly-In/Drive-In Theatre

lasted only a couple of years.

Drive-Ins Across The Nation

New Jersey actually served as home to the first drive-in movie theatre in Camden County’s Pennsauken dating back to 1933. The Newark Moonlight Cinema opened last year, while the Delsea Drive-In Theatre in Vineland remains as the second permanently operating movie theatre in the state.

According to a website named Driveinmovie.com, over 4,000 drive-ins existed nationally during the 1950s. There are now approximately 325 drive-in theatres, with the largest number in Florida and Texas.

During the pandemic, drive-in movie theatres appeared in select locations throughout the nation.

Sometimes, it’s the simple things that make life easier.

─Photo courtesy CinemaTreasures.org “Dust” Hoffman and “John” Voight starred in this classic.

S potlight o n g overnment

New Jersey Wins $1.7 Trillion In Federal Funding Bill

Capitol Comments

projects across New Jersey and for an amendment to provide relief to 9/11 families and other U.S. victims of state-sponsored terrorism.

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

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 program 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.

ark 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.

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.”

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 New-

“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-theline 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

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- squarefoot 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 six-month 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 Cory Booker

Senator Robert Menendez

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

Connors:

as mayor from 1986-1990. He joined the Assembly in the 9 th District in 1989 and won elections ever since. He was Assistant Majority Leader from 1992-1995. Every state district has a senator and two assembly members. His father was the senator in that district. When Leonard Connors retired in 2007, Christopher then stepped up into his father’s role. He’s won re-election ever since.

“I can take comfort in fulfilling my final year in the Senate knowing that I served my constituents to the best of my ability, always placing their best interests and good governance before partisan politics or special interest agendas. Always, my first and most important responsibility is to be responsive to my constituents, especially through the constituent services provided by my legislative district office to assist those in need,” he said.

“Making this decision even more difficult is how much I will sincerely miss the tremendously productive working relationships with the dedicated federal, state, county, and local elected officials whom I share a constituency. Most especially though, I will miss serving along my 9th District Legislative colleagues Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblywoman DiAnne Gove who are dedicated, compassionate, and highly effective public servants who have earned the enduring

respect of both their constituents and fellow elected officials,” he said.

“Lastly, I want to pay tribute to my late father, Senator Leonard T. Connors, Jr., for consistently instilling in me the qualities of a dedicated public servant, that begins with being responsive to and respectful of the people you were elected to represent. He always followed his moral compass and was the greatest father and mentor a person could ever have by their side.”

Connors is a partner with the law firm of Dasti, Murphy, McGuckin, Ulaky, Koutsouris & Connors who also serves as the township attorney of Lacey. From 1982 to 1988, Connors was Deputy Director of the New Jersey Commission on Capital Budgeting and Planning and served as its Director during 1988 and 1989.

Connors served as Assistant Majority Leader 1992-95. Presently, Connors serves as a ranking member of the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee and the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

His retirement leaves a power vacuum that local Republicans will likely vie for.

The 9 th District is made up of the following areas: Barnegat, Barnegat Light, Bass River, Beach Haven, Beachwood, Berkeley, Eagleswood, Galloway, Harvey Cedars, Lacey, Little Egg Harbor, Long Beach, Ocean Gate, Ocean Township (Waretown), Pine Beach, Port Republic, Seaside Park, Ship Bottom, South Toms River, Stafford, Surf City, Tabernacle, Tuckerton, Washington (Burlington).

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Officer: Continued From Page 1

shore and to the waiting paramedics.

Ammerman, 41, received the Carnegie Medal, given to people who put their lives in danger to save the lives of others. Established by Andrew Carnegie in 1904, the award comes with a financial grant and is designed to recognize and support those who perform acts of heroism while in civilian life in the U.S. and Canada.

Ammerman is a Senior Correctional Police Officer working at the Garden State Youth Correctional Facility, according to the State Department of Corrections.

Unsurprisingly, Ammerman said he doesn’t consider himself a hero.

“I’m just grateful I could be in the right place at the right time that day to help,” he said. “I appreciate the Carnegie Hero Fund for recognizing me in this way.”

His superiors had more to say about him.

“Senior Officer Ammerman represents the best of NJDOC,” said Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn. “When we say we are ‘NJDOC Strong,’ this is what we mean – a willingness to put others before self, to risk one’s own safety to save another. We’re proud the Carnegie Hero Fund has recognized his remarkable actions this way.”

William Sullivan, president of NJPBA 105, which represents correctional police officers, said “Our training and careers in the NJDOC extend well beyond our tour at our facilities. We appreciate his actions

and heroism in saving this gentleman. Our officers are the best in the nation and times like this show just that.”

According to the Carnegie Hero Foundation, more than 10,000 people have been given the award, 20% of them posthumously.

“We live in a heroic age,” Andrew Carnegie wrote in the opening lines of the Commission’s founding Deed of Trust in 1904. “Not seldom are we thrilled by deeds of heroism where men or women are injured or lose their lives in attempting to preserve or rescue their fellows.”

To nominate someone for the Carnegie Medal, complete a nomination form online or write to the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, 436 Seventh Ave., Suite 1101, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. More information can be found at carnegiehero.org

TAX ACCOUNTANT

Manchester Accounting Services – Whiting, NJ 08759

Are you a CPA wanting to be your own boss versus a larger firm environment? Set your own schedule! CPA Owner is seeking other CPAs to responsibly team up and get the work done. There are fulltime, part-time or seasonal positions with a business that is 35+ years in the same established location.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's Degree Tax preparation experience: 5-7 years CPA preferred

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Primarily responsible for preparation of 1040 tax returns

• Additionally responsible for preparation of tax returns for S corporations, C corporations, partnerships, estates, trusts and not-for-profits

• Preparation of federal and state quarterly estimated income tax payments and annual extension payments

• Tax planning

• Respond to inquiries from the IRS and other tax authorities

• Solid knowledge of and ability to interpret tax rules and regulations

• Research and consultation on various tax matters

• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

• Ability to handle simultaneous projects, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines

PREFERRED SKILLS INCLUDE:

• Working knowledge of ProSeries (or comparable) and Microsoft Office applications

• Personable and quick-witted

Please submit resumes including salary requirements –

INFO@ManchesterAccountingServices.com

No calls please. EOE

Potential candidates will be contacted to interview.

Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal, Full-time Salary: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour based on experience Benefits: Flexible schedule

COVID-19 considerations: All clients are asked to wear a mask. Lobby seating was removed. Client appointments are limited. All staff in the office are vaccinated/boosted.

C ommunity n ew

BARNEGAT – Opened in 2014, this hidden gem covers over 177 acres of forests and wetlands. The park is located along the westbound side of Barnegat Boulevard. The entrance road winds among pines and blueberries into a quiet and pristine setting. Amenities include a comfort station with restrooms, ample parking, and a 1.75 mile marked nature trail. The trail highlights the park’s diversity as it meanders through rolling hills that are relic sand dunes from a time when the area was a prehistoric beach. The trail also crosses Lochiel Creek, the

park’s namesake, which harbors populations of federally threatened wildflowers and strange carnivorous plants. Along with native orchids and wetland shrubs, there are plenty of wildflowers to see throughout the growing season.

One of the most convenient features of the park is its accessibility to the Barnegat Branch Trail. The parking area serves as a trailhead where visitors can access the 6.5 contiguous miles of the Barnegat Branch Trail via a short connector trail.

–Photo courtesy Southern Regional MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to Southern Regional Boys XC runner Drew Bowker on his commitment to continue his education and running careers at Monmouth University. Drew will continue running for the Hawks’ Cross Country & Track and Field programs. Best of Luck!

Baseball Players Announce College Commitments

Barnegat Friends Meeting Open House January 22

BARNEGAT – You are cordially invited to join for an open house at Barnegat Friends (Quaker) Meeting on January 22 at 11 a.m. They will be serving coffee and other morning beverages along with bagels, cream cheese, and additional light refreshments. They hope to have some lively and meaningful conversation. They have many interests to share, and they would like to learn about you and your interests. This is a great opportunity to learn more about our community, meet new friends, and connect with others who share similar values and beliefs. Whether you are new to the Quaker tradition or have been

attending meetings for years, they welcome you to come and be a part of this special event.

There is no need to respond; simply come and join. This is a totally informal event. You are welcome to come at 10 a.m. (worship) or 11 a.m. (food and fellowship) or both worship and fellowship.

The Barnegat Friends Meeting House is located at 614 East Bay Avenue, Barnegat. Questions? Write to events@ barnegatquakers.org. Can’t come and you want to say hello? Write or leave a message at 609-698-2058. You are welcome to visit us any Sunday.

Monthly Bird Walks At Cloverdale Farm County Park

BARNEGAT – Learn how Cloverdale Farm County Park’s bird population changes month by month. This informative two-hour bird walk is perfect for all levels of birders. Please be prepared to walk a mile, dress for the weather, wear comfortable sneakers or

boots and bring a pair of binoculars.

Monthly Bord Walks will be on: January 14, February 11, March 4; from 9 to 11 a.m. Walks are free and open to ages 9 and up (adult parent/guardian must accompany child). No registration required.

Winter Field Day Games

TUCKERTON – Don’t want to wait until the spring for field day? Come join for our version of field day, indoors! Events will include a relay race, hula hoop contest, obstacle course, and more!

Participants will receive medals and rib -

bons at the end of the activity. Please wear sneakers and bring a drink.

Games will take place at the Program Room, Stanley “Tip” Seaman County Park, Tuckerton, on January 18 from 5 to 6 p.m. Fee is $5.00 per child. Open to ages 6 to 11 years.

Football Players Named All Star Team

Football Player Named To Hall Of Fame

Dom is a Multi-Sport Athlete at Southern participating on our Track and Field teams. Dom has a GPA of 104.8 and ranks 12th in the Class of 2023. Thank you for all you do for Southern.

–Photo courtesy Southern Regional MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to the following Southern Regional Football players on being named to the Shore Conference “Colonial” Division All Star Team for the 2022 season: Andy Falletta 1st Team Defense Sr. Max DiPietro 1st Team Offense Sr. Armando Sanchez 1st Team Offense Jr Xander Murray 2nd Team Defense Sr.

MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to Southern Regional Football player Dom Crisalli on being named to the National Football Foundation-College Hall of Fame: South Jersey Chapter Scholar Athlete nominee for the 2022-2023 school year.

Energy Saving Tips And Bill Assistance Information

MAYS LANDING – Winter is officially here. As even colder temperatures can be expected through the coming months, leading to increased energy usage and potentially higher bills, Atlantic City Electric is committed to helping all customers use less energy by providing energy efficiency information to help keep bills as low as possible this winter season. The company also continues to encourage customers to take advantage of millions of dollars in energy assistance available across New Jersey.

Atlantic City Electric recognizes customers may use more energy than expected as temperatures get colder, and some continue with a hybrid work schedule. Atlantic City Electric offers the following tips to help reduce energy use and costs:

Check your thermostat. Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter, if health permits. You can save about two percent on your heating bill for every degree you lower your thermostat. When you are asleep or out of the house, try turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours to save approximately 10 percent on your heating bill. Consider investing in a smart thermostat that can connect to your mobile devices, helping you stay on top of your energy usage.

Unplug your devices. Mobile phones, laptops and other electronic devices will continue to use energy after they are fully charged.

Adjust your blinds. Keep your blinds up during the day to capture the radiant heating benefits of the sun. Close your blinds and curtains after the sun goes down to keep

the cold air out and the heat in.

Install energy efficient light bulbs. Energy-efficient LED bulbs use up to 75 percent less energy than standard bulbs.

Check for air leaks. Check the ductwork for air leaks about once a year if you have a forced-air heating system. To do this, feel around the duct joints for escaping air when the fan is on.

Insulate your home. Trap escaping air from windows and doors by using caulking or weather-stripping around leaky areas, install storm windows in winter and close chimney flues.

Adjust hot water heater. Lowering the temperature on your water heater/hot water tank can help save money and energy.

Dust or vacuum radiators. Dust and grime impede the flow of heat. Keeping radiators clean helps maintain their efficiency.

Maintain home heating equipment Have your heating equipment serviced periodically by a professional service representative.

Look for the ENERGY STAR® label on home appliances, electronics, and other products. ENERGY STAR® products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Customers can also manage their bill through My Account, Atlantic City Electric’s online energy management tool that shows how much energy a customer is using. More information is available for customers at atlanticcityelectric.com/ MyAccount.

Barnegat First Aid Squad Seeking Members

BARNEGAT – “We can only be as good as the people who join our team to make our mission possible,” the Barnegat First Aid Squad stated.

The Barnegat First Aid Squad is currently seeking new members. EMTs are needed and drivers willing to become EMTs. Contact the Barnegat First Aid Squad for further information so they can continue to provide their free volunteer service to the community. Uniforms

and training are provided and 96 hours minimum every quarter of the year are required which ends up being only eight hours a week by doing such as two, 4-hour shifts, with some performing much more.

They are a service that provides emergency 911 care at people’s most needed times of their lives and they need help continuing to provide the dedication that they all put their hearts into.

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 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.

Beach Haven Government Meetings

BEACH HAVEN – The Borough of Beach Haven’s commission meets the second Monday of the month at 420 Pelham Avenue at

7 p.m. For additional information call 609492-0111, visit beachhaven-nj.gov, or email beachhavenborough@beachhaven-nj.gov.

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.

Prom Dress Collection

OCEAN COUNTY – Because of your community support, Prom Dress Giveaway will bring joy to young women, who prior to this charitable event, were unable to attend their spring formal or prom. They are accepting new or gently used prom dresses for this great event from January 2 until February 17 at all Ocean County Library branches.

Before you donate, ensure that it meets the following criteria:

• They only need short and long styles within the last five years

• Ideally donate dry cleaned dresses ready for attending Prom.

• All dresses must be clean and in good condition (ie. no rips, tears or stains)

• No accessories, shoes, purses, and bridesmaids dresses.

photo of the week Around the JerSey Shore

Veolia Environmental Donation Presented To MATES

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!

TOMS RIVER – Veolia recently awarded the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES), led by Dr. John Wnek, in Stafford with a $20,000

contribution to fund retrieval of derelict crab pots in the Barnegat Bay that are abandoned, lost during storms, accidental-

–Photo courtesy Veolia

Left to Right: Broden Connolly; Kailey Miller; Dr. John Wnek; Alison Carroll; Jim Mastrokalos, Veolia; Grace Leavitt; Angelo Amato (MATES - See Page 16)

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

How Colds, The Flu & Covid 19 Affects Hearing

It’s been well over 2 years, and the Covid 19 variants are still wreaking havoc in our area. For the most part, the new variants just present with “cold-like” symptoms but the rate of infection spread is typically higher than the common cold. Unfortunately, once you start to exhibit symptoms such as a sore throat, headache, sinus pressure, post nasal drip, etc., you already have Covid 19 and more than likely you have spread the germs to others. Many individuals are taking in home rapid tests and are commonly “negative” for a few days before the result is positive. In my opinion, this is reason enough to frequently wash your hands, don a mask (when in large in group events), and get vaccinated. Unless you physician recommends otherwise, vaccinated individuals typically experience a significant reduction of Covid 19 symptoms and the recovery time is generally less.

Upper respiratory viruses often create fluid buildup in the middle ear, leading to congestion, pain, muffled sound, and secondary infections. The flu virus has been known to affect the auditory nerve,

which can cause permanent hearing loss. Similar to the flu, COVID-19 has shown an alarming ability to attack the hearing and vestibular systems, although the exact reason is still under investigation. Patients with long-haul COVID are at increased risk. Luckily, serious hearing damage from viral infections is rare, though the temporary effects are uncomfortable — stuffiness, dizziness, tinnitus, and ear infections could put a damper on your future holiday plans.

If you have experienced hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo during a bout of COVID 19 and these symptoms are continuing to “linger” I would contact your hearing healthcare professional for a complete hearing and dizziness evaluation. Protect your hearing by supporting your health!

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.gardenstatehearing.com.

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

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

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

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.

MATES

ly cut by passing boats or break for other reasons. Veolia’s environmental donation will not only help to clean the Bay but also constrain the number of marine organisms that become caught or entangled in the commercial and recreational traps such as marine crabs, turtles and fish.

Between 2015 and 2019, MATES, under the coordination of The Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey with partners including Stockton University and the local fishing community recovered over 2,100 derelict crab pots. However, due to the pandemic, recovery of the crab pots ceased for the last few years, and with this funding, MATES will be able to restart the program. The derelict crab pots collected will be responsibly disposed through a recycling program.

Veolia’s funding will also support the manufacture and local distribution of bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) that are used in the funnels of commercial-style crab pots to reduce the capture of non-targeted species such as finfish and diamondback terrapins.

A subsidiary of Veolia group, Veolia North America (VNA) offers a full spectrum of water, waste and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. VNA helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, VNA has over 10,000 employees working at more than 400 locations across the continent.

Accepting the Veolia donation, presented by Jim Mastrokalos, Sr. Director Operations is Dr. John Wnek, Director of MATES and Alison Carroll, Principal of MATES along with MATES students who will be working on the project.

Strand Theater Receives 2022 Best Of Lakewood Award

LAKEWOOD – The Lakewood Award Program has named the Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, the 2022 Best of Lakewood in the category of Performing Arts Theater.

Each year, the Lakewood Award Program identifies companies believed to have achieved exceptional marketing success in its local community and business category.

The Lakewood Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Lakewood area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

Officials of the Lakewood Award Program said, “These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Lakewood area a great place to live, work and play.”

Amy A. Freeman, executive board president, said, “I am very proud to share and announce that The Strand Theater has been selected as the Winner for the 2022 Best of Lakewood Awards in the category of Performing Arts Theater.”

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2022 Lakewood Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Lakewood Award Program and data provided by third parties.

For more information, visit the Lakewood Award Program at recognitionlocalbiz. com or PublicRelations@recognition localbiz.com.

Do I Need To Challenge An Ordinance?

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

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.

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Pets For Sale For Rent

Notice

Misc.

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)

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-855-634-0529. (t/n)

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

Birdbrain, or an extinct bird

Claim with confidence

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

Rhine siren

Europe’s Bay of __

Chant

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

Remove with difficulty

*Top performer who’s hopelessly off course?

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