2023-01-14 - The Berkeley Times

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY

– John P. Kelly was surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, staff, and elected officials from the state and local levels as he was sworn in for his 10 th term on the Board of Ocean County Commissioners.

His oath of office was

True Vine Shelters Growing Homeless Population

Officials Want Utility Rates To Stay Flat

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – Utility bills are something every homeowner has to pay. That’s why local officials are asking for a rate moratorium that would prevent any future increases.

The State Board of Public Utilities is responsible for approving price increases. The Resolution approved by the Township Council said that the BPU approved double-digit rate hikes for four gas providers that became effective in October of 2022.

For New Jersey Nat-

ural Gas, their latest rate increase was unconscionable for seniors, Mayor Carmen Amato said. It had the effect of sticker shock when someone sees their bill for the first time after the increase.

The rate increases pay for the expanding services “and of course outrageous salaries for their administration,” Amato said. They are supporting a bill that would halt increases.

Councilman Thomas Grosse asked how this would work, considering it is government

(Rates - See Page 7)

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY -

There’s a line of people to get in before the shelter officially opens. A bus stop on

Route 9 brings people in, and sometimes, they get picked up by a staff member before spending the night.

TrueVine ministry

is located in a strip mall, at 340 Route 9 in Bayville. In the evenings, it opens its doors to the homeless population.

They started as a church in a community center in 2017, Pastor Rhetta Jackson said. The Code Blue (Shelters - See Page 4)

Ocean County Commissioners Sworn In For New Terms

administered during the recently held reorganization meeting of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.

Joining Kelly were his children Jimmy and Dawn Marie who stood by his side holding the Bible. He served as the Board’s Director in 2022 and has been

a member of the Board since 1993.

Kelly said he looked forward to working with his fellow Commissioners and the Ocean County staff to provide the best programs and services for County residents.

“It’s a privilege to have been re-elected to this seat on the Board of

Commissioners. I look forward to a New Year providing services for our residents and making sure Ocean County remains affordable,” he added.

Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines was sworn in for her third three-year term on the Board by former state Assem -

blyman Jack Ciattarelli and accompanied by her nephew Grant Chedester and his wife Darlene.

“To my colleagues on the Board – Jack, Joe, Bobbi Jo and Gary – I look forward to working with all of you in the New Year. Together we will continue (Terms - See Page 5)

County Asked For Parking Help

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – Officials asked the county for help with parking issues on a road in South Seaside Park.

Some roads are county roads so the county government are the only ones who can make changes to it.

Berkeley Business Administrator John Camera said that the parking on 14 th Avenue in South Seaside Park is residents only. The Township Council asked the county to enforce the residents-only

designation as well.

The area has a lot of parking issues, especially in the summer, he said. Residents who live there find that they have nowhere to park.

Some of the homes only have stones in their yard, and there’s no specific driveway. That causes drivers to park along the entire length of the property. Sometimes this blocks them in, sometimes this blocks them out.

The South Seaside Park section of the town (Parking - See Page 6)

─Photo by Chris Lundy

There are separate sleeping areas for men and women.

Shelters:

Continued From Page 1

portion of it began last year. Code Blue is the state program that allows temporary shelters for homeless in the winter.

“My husband and I’s vision is we want the whole person healed,” she said.

There are 22 beds every night regardless of the temperature from November through March. If they fill up, they will call Toms River or Lakewood. Men and women are in separate rooms.

Some are regulars that come every night, she said. Some lost their jobs because of COVID. There’s a senior couple who just can’t afford to find a place to live in Ocean County on Social Security.

While the homeless are there, they get visited by people who can offer job training or services of that nature. Each person is evaluated to see what they need. As a drug and alcohol counselor, Jackson said that some of them are dealing with mental illness and addiction.

“Every case is different. If we don’t treat the whole person, they will wind up back here,” she said. “We can’t just provide a bed.”

The first thing that has to be addressed is their physical needs: shelter and food. Then, they can find out what comes next.

Since they are one of the most southern areas in the county to have Code

Blue, they get a lot of folks from as far as Little Egg Harbor or Manahawkin. That’s not to say other churches don’t want to have a Code Blue in those areas, but they are facing challenges.

“Our desire is to have a year-round shelter. Ocean County will not allow that, so we follow the state of emergency regulations,” she said.

Ocean is the only county in the state without a homeless shelter. Many of the people who care for the homeless have said that a small fee of $5 on every real estate transaction would pay for it. Burlington County does this, for example. The County Commissioners have said that they don’t want to charge that. The Atlantic City Rescue Mission sued Ocean County in 2011, seeking reimbursement for millions of dollars it spent taking care people coming there from Ocean.

Jackson has said that she has come to five different mayors around the county who have told her they are not in support of a year-round shelter.

A year round shelter would also protect people from the summer heat that can be just as deadly as the winter cold, she said.

“This is what a church is supposed to do. That’s what Jesus did when he walked the Earth. We’re doing what God wants us to do,” she said.

If You Need Help

If you need a roof over your head in the winter, call 732-608-7706 or 848-

251-2546.

If You Can Help

True Vine is in need of volunteers as well as cleaning supplies, toiletries and other needs. Call 732-910-3155 if you’d

like to donate time or money.

“Fulfill has been very generous,” the pastor said. They provide pre-cooked meals since there is no cooking on the premises.

─Photo by Chris Lundy

Pastor Rhetta Jackson operates the Code Blue shelter at TrueVine.

to provide good government for our residents,” Haines said after being administered the oath of office.

Haines added, “every New Year provides us with an opportunity to look back and reflect and to look ahead - to grow and to improve on what we already have. It also gives us the chance to be stronger and better than the year before.”

Commissioner Joseph H. Vicari, the longest serving Commissioner in the state with more than 40 years on the Board was named Director of the Board this year and Commissioner Gary Quinn was named Deputy Director.

Vicari stressed the importance of producing results for County residents and that by the Board working together as a team they will provide services and programs for residents while also providing the fiscally conservative policies of the Board.

“Whether it’s our Road Department, our Office of Senior Services, our Veterans Services Bureau, our Department of Parks and Recreation, Transportation, Public Safety, we deliver results. We provide assistance to our residents that we can measure,” Vicari added. He noted, “we set our goals high. We want to hear from our constituents, we want to know what they like and don’t like.”

Vicari said that while this year’s budget preparation is just under way, he anticipates the county’s property tax rate to decrease for the seventh consecutive year.

“We will continue to meet the needs of our residents in the New Year,” Vicari said. He quoted one of his favorite presidents, Dwight D. Eisenhower, stating, “if a political party does not have its foundation in the determination to advance a cause that is right and that is moral, then it is not a political party; it is merely a conspiracy to seize power.”

Deputy Director Quinn echoed the sentiments of his colleagues on the Board as did Commissioner Barbara Jo Crea.

Quinn said, “I want to extend my appreciation to the Ocean County staff. From our Administrator to the rank and file, the men and women that work for Ocean County are the ones who implement our programs and make certain we can advance the mission of our County government and provide the best possible service.”

Crea also extended her thanks to the staff of the county, specifically noting the departments she serves as board liaison.

“We cannot provide the important services we do without the dedication and hard work of our department directors and the staff,” she said. “With our support and their efforts, the County will continue to be a great place to live, work and retire.”

─Photos courtesy Ocean County Ocean County Commissioners Virginia E. Haines and John P. Kelly hold up their certificates while standing next to colleagues and officials noting the results of their reelection.

Parking:

Continued From Page 1

gets its name because it’s literally south of Seaside Park. There are a lot of restaurants in the area, plus beaches and a marina. It’s also north of Island Beach State Park, and when that spot has its fill of cars for the day, the gates are closed and people wind up finding places to park in front of houses.

People tend to leave the beaches (either White Sands or Island Beach State Park) in the late afternoon, but then that’s also when people start coming to the half dozen bars and restaurants in that small area.

Parking in that area has become a regular issue. One suggestion was building curbs and charging residents for their cost. One

suggestion was enforcing the parking for residents only. One suggestion was making the roads one-way only, and striping the sides with diagonal parking spaces.

A resident recently asked if the town evaluates parking before letting a company like a bar operate there. Officials responded that the business owner pays for the traffic study, but the town is not responsible for doing their own study. The onus is on the developer. Also, when approving a business, the town can’t judge it based on what other businesses are in the area. They have to judge it based on the merits of the business alone.

In related news, the township will be receiving bids from companies looking to reconstruct the 21st and 22nd Avenue beach walkways.

Investigation: Cops Justified In Shooting Attacker

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office determined that an officer who shot a knife-wielding man was justified in his use of force.

The incident happened on August 1, 2021. Stephen M. Carroccia, who was 36 at the time, was at his Stanford Drive home in the Silver Ridge Park East community. A relative called 911, telling police he had been behaving erratically, wandering around neighbors’ yards.

Three Berkeley officers arrived, and they were warned by dispatch that he had “pulled a knife out of a pile of laundry in the past.”

Police reported the events of that morning, and the prosecutor’s office did independent interviews with three neighbors, the woman who called 911, and the man who was shot. The officers were wearing body cameras.

The three officers met with the relative who was sitting on a front porch. Carroccia came out of the door “noticeably agitated.” He questioned why police were there and demanded to know who called 911. The relative told officers that Carroccia had physically assaulted her in the past and worried about the situation escalating.

The officers tried to de-escalate the situation, but it was unsuccessful. Carroccia flinched at one of

the officers as if he was going to attack, but only yelled in his face.

Officer 1 was between Carroccia and the relative, with Carroccia in the doorway of the home. He then brought out a 16” kitchen knife and aimed it at the officer’s neck and head. The officer pushed him away and ordered him to drop the knife.

Carroccia lunged again and the officer used his taser. At the same time, a different officer fired three shots into his upper body.

The three officers all performed first aid before the Berkeley Township First Aid Squad arrived to take him to a hospital.

There were no other injuries.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said his office concluded that the use of force was legally justified. Further, it was not necessary to present this matter to the Grand Jury because there were no material facts in dispute regarding the lawfulness of the use of force. The Attorney General’s Office agreed.

Carroccia was indicted for Attempted Murder, Possession of Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons. He has been held in the Ocean County Jail since his arrest. Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.

─Photo by Chris Lundy Most South Seaside Park homes don’t have driveways, which contributes to parking issues.

monitoring a private business (a utility company).

Amato said it would change the law.

In 2021, New Jersey Natural Gas asked for a 25% rate increase. At the time, Amato noted it was the third double-digit increase in six years.

According to New Jersey Natural Gas, they had invested nearly $850 million in improvements that were helping customers but were not reflected in the current rate.

That rate adjustment, which came through in 2022, was meant to cover a number of improvements, including ongoing infrastructure replacement. A green hydrogen fuel project was developed to reduce emissions. Also, a training facility was built to train operators and provide mandatory qualifications for staff. Safety and field simulations are part of that process, which also trains third party contractors and local emergency personnel.

Included in this increase is rate recovery for the Southern Reliability Link. More than 85% of the natural gas supply used to serve customers in Monmouth, Ocean and Burlington counties is delivered through a single feed at the northern end of NJNG’s system, a utility spokesman said. Any significant supply disruption on this line could negatively impact a majority of NJNG’s nearly 560,000 customers. SRL directly mitigates this risk by accessing a second interstate supply source that interconnects with

the southern end of NJNG’s system.

This was a controversial pipeline that some local officials and environmentalists fought against. They were concerned about leaks, construction through protected areas, and the eventual cost that would come back to residents in the form of rate increases.

A bill in the state legislature right now is S-3354, which would exempt natural gas and electric bills from sales tax until March 31, 2023. That bill states “New Jersey finds itself in the midst of a worsening affordability crisis. Inflation has made it harder to afford basic goods and services while disruptions brought on by the war in Ukraine have sent global energy costs soaring. Locally, this had led to an increase in residential energy costs with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities recently approving double-digit rate increases for the State’s four largest gas providers. These rate hikes range anywhere from 15 to 25 percent and are expected to increase the average household’s energy bill by an average of $300 annually. With many experts anticipating another harsh winter ahead, it is imperative for the State to help ease this financial burden. By exempting the purchase of natural gas and electrical services from the sales and use tax for the duration of the winter season, residents will be able to find some measure of relief in the face of rising costs.”

Any customer having difficulty paying their natural gas bill is encouraged to visit njng.com/energyassistance to learn about assistance programs.

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

President & Publisher Stew Swann Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff News Editor Chris Lundy Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller Production Manager Allison Gradzki Graphic Artist Adriana Starcic

Distribution Manager Laura Hoban Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano Layout Designer Sara Zorns

S potlight o n g overnment

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

Bipartisan Legislation Will Establish Information Literacy Education

evaluate, and effectively use the needed information. Information literacy includes, but is not limited to, digital, visual, media, textual, and technological literacy.

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (S588) establishing the requirement of K-12 instruction on information literacy under the implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. The signing of this bipartisan legislation reaffirms the Governor’s commitment to leading the nation in public education while preparing students for lifelong learning by equipping them with the skills they need to accurately assess information.

The bill requires the New Jersey Department of Education to develop New Jersey Student Learning Standards in “information literacy,” which is defined as a set of skills that enables an individual to recognize when information is needed and to locate,

“Our democracy remains under sustained attack through the proliferation of disinformation that is eroding the role of truth in our political and civic discourse,” said Governor Murphy. “It is our responsibility to ensure our nation’s future leaders are equipped with the tools necessary to identify fact from fiction. I am proud to sign legislation that is critical to the success of New Jersey’s students and essential to the preservation of our democracy.”

Primary sponsors of the bill include Senators Michael Testa and Shirley Turner, and Assemblymembers Daniel Benson, Pamela Lampitt, and Mila Jasey.

The bill requires the Commissioner of the Department of Education to convene a committee, including certified school library media specialists

and teaching staff members, to assist in developing the information literacy standards. The standards will be reviewed by experts as they are developed. This will provide an opportunity for collaboration among teachers and school library media specialists to advance information literacy in the K-12 learning standards. The proposed information literacy standards will also be subject to public input prior to their adoption by the State Board of Education.

“Information literacy is more important now than ever before, especially with the growing prevalence of social media and online news,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education. “Students for generations will be well-served by this legislation, which sets into statute the requirement for schools to provide instruction on information literacy.” Each school district will incorporate instruction on information literacy in an appropriate place in the curriculum of students in grades kindergarten through 12 as part of the district’s implementation of the New Jersey

Student Learning Standards. The guidelines will include, at a minimum, the following:

• the research process and how information is created and produced;

• critical thinking and using information resources;

• research methods, including the difference between primary and secondary sources;

• the difference between facts, points of view, and opinions;

• accessing peer-reviewed print and digital library resources;

• the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information; and

• the ethical production of information.

“Teaching children about information literacy will help them to weigh the flood of news, opinion, and social media they are exposed to both online and off,” said Senator Michael Testa (R-1st). “This law isn’t about teaching kids that any specific idea is true or false, rather it’s about helping them learn how to research, evaluate, and understand the information they are presented for themselves.”

$500M Loan To Modernize Water Infrastructure

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) celebrated the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement of a $500 million loan to the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank to modernize wastewater and drinking water systems serving over 9 million people throughout New Jersey. This is the first loan issued through the State Infrastructure Financing Authority Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (SWIFIA) program, which provides loans exclusively to state infrastructure financing authority borrowers, commonly known as state revolving fund programs. The program was created by Congress in 2018 under the bipartisan America’s Water Infrastructure Act.

“Rebuilding New Jersey’s aging water and wastewater infrastructure and ex-

panding access to clean, safe water while creating good paying jobs is exactly the type of smart investment our communities and environment need,” said Sen. Bob Menendez. “I’m proud to have fought for many of the provisions in the bipartisan America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, which created SWIFIA, and will benefit millions of New Jersey families up and down the state with essential funding for state revolving fund programs. I thank the Biden Administration for recognizing this critical opportunity and choosing New Jersey as the first state in the country to receive a SWIFIA loan, which will ultimately have positive life-changing impacts for communities throughout the Garden State.”

“This historic infusion of federal funds will help New Jersey implement vital water infrastructure projects,” said Sen. Cory Booker. “I have championed programs to ensure every American has access to safe, clean drinking water. I am excited the EPA is issuing its first SWIFIA loan to New Jersey. This funding will create hundreds of jobs and

advance water infrastructure projects to address contaminants in drinking water, install water filtration systems, and replace lead pipes across our state.”

Thanks to EPA’s SWIFIA loan and funding from the New Jersey State Revolving Fund, over 90 communities across the Garden State will be able to implement critical water infrastructure projects - remediating contaminated groundwater, replacing lead service lines, and installing filtration systems to protect drinking water from PFAS contamination. These infrastructure investments will help communities maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, manage flooding, and improve climate resiliency. Projects that will receive SWIFIA funding are located throughout the state, including in 36 smaller communities and 39 disadvantaged communities.

“From critical resilience projects to the replacement of lead service lines, New Jersey remains at the forefront of innovative water infrastructure solutions,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. “The EPA’s SWIFIA loan will further solidify New Jersey’s status as a national model for water infrastructure, which serves as the foundation

for healthy communities. In addition to helping our state secure safe, healthy, and efficient wastewater and drinking water systems for all New Jerseyans, the EPA’s support will also help generate good-paying jobs in our expanding water workforce.”

“Improving New Jersey’s water infrastructure is a team effort, and we are grateful to our partners at U.S. EPA and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank for their work to close the State’s latest WIFIA loan,” said New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection, Shawn M. LaTourette. “This loan will support the Murphy Administration’s continuing efforts to modernize water infrastructure in communities across the Garden State–ensuring the highest standards of protection for public health and the environment, as we create good-paying engineering, construction, and other jobs for New Jersey families.”

The SWIFIA program is housed within EPA’s WIFIA program. SWIFIA loans allow state infrastructure finance authorities to offer additional low-cost financing to communities and accelerate implementation of important water infrastructure projects.

Senator Robert Menendez

From The Desk Of The Governor Phil Murphy

Job Announcement - SLEO Class II

BEACHWOOD – Beachwood Police Department is now hiring for the position of SLEO Class II Officer.

Minimum Requirements - Applicants must comply with the following basic qualification standards:

• Applicants must possess Certification from the NJ Police Training Commission for the Basic Course for Special law enforcement officer Class II

• Must be a citizen of the United States

• Must be a resident of New Jersey and poses a valid NJ driver’s license

• Must be at least 18 years of age

• Must have a High School Diploma or Equivalent certificate

• Must be able to read, write and speak the English Language well and intelligently

• Must be of good moral character, and have not been convicted of any criminal offense

• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation, psychological testing, drug screening, and an oral interview.

Job Description/General Duties: Class II Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLEO II) are authorized to exercise full police powers and duties to those of a permanent, regularly appointed full-time police officer. They will perform all duties and maintain same authority as regular, full-time police officers but as a part-time member of the Police Department.

About Our Department: The Beachwood Police Department consists of 20 full time sworn officers and up to 2 SLEO Class II officers. Our year-round population is just over 11,000. We have

approximately 10,000 calls for service a year. We are a two-time NJSACOP Accredited Agency. We are hiring up to 2 SLEO II officers and specifically interested in the immediate hire of anyone already academy trained that meets our hiring criteria.

Hiring Process:

Background Investigation/Process

Administration Interview

Brough Appointment

Formal Training, if applicable

Field Training

Direct questions regarding this position to Lieutenant Daniel Altman at daltman@beachwoodpolice.com.

C ommunity n ew S

Holiday City At Berkeley EMS

BERKELEY – Thank you for your yearly donations. The time for our annual fund drive is coming up again. In March you will be receiving a request for a donation. Times are difficult for many of us but if you can, please consider us in your gift giving. We also appreciate your letters and notes letting us know that we were able to help you or your family when you called 911. We are so grateful for your generosity. Please don’t feel slighted by the necessity of having to send your letter addressed to “Current Resident.” Although the envelope will be addressed to Current Resident instead of you personally, we hope that understand the cost of keeping up with changing mailing addresses would eat up too much of the donations you send. It would

take lots of money and people-hours to check that everyone still currently lives at all 11,000-plus addresses.

Holiday City at Berkeley EMS Squad is a not-for-profit, volunteer organization, serving over 11,000 homes, responding to emergency calls from lift assistance to heart attacks and diabetic events. Composed of CPR certified, First Responders and EMTs we provide FREE quality emergency medical services and basic life support, in the Holiday Cities; Berkeley, Carefree, South, West, also Silver Ridge East and parts of Silver Ridge West.

All the volunteer squads need more volunteers. Come to 100 Port Royal and volunteer for an interesting job where the greatest rewards are not financial. We cover an area that includes almost 11,000 homes. Without volunteers there is no free EMS.

Come down and ask about working with us, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. Want to do something meaningful? Board and want some action? Join HCBEMS at 100 Port Royal Drive, 732-240-4999. Get education, a uniform, time on an ambulance, and a chance to be useful and needed.

Love For Pittie Valentines Bash

BERKELEY – The Pittie Project will be hosting their Love for Pittie Valentines Bash on February 5 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Yesterday’s Restaurant. Join for fun, food, raffles, 50/50s and more.Ticket price includes four complimentary raffle tickets, hot lunch buffet, DJ music, beer, wine and soft drinks! Reserve a table for parties of eight to 10 people. Purchases tickets at thepittie.com/events/love-for-pittievalentines-bash.

Tibetan Singing Bowls

BERKELEY – Learn about the health benefits of meditation and the history of Tibetan singing bowls. Relax and unwind while playing a singing bowl. Class will be held on January 14 from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Berkeley Branch Library. Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Paws For Reading

BERKELEY – Practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Program will be held on January 17 from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Berkeley Branch Library. Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

ommunity n ew S

2023 Ocean Gate Board Of Education Members

OCEAN GATE – Introducing the 2023 Ocean Gate Board of Education! Congratulations to Mr. Gottesman on his re-election to the Ocean Gate Board of Education, and congratulations to the

re-elected Board of Education President, Richard Casey, and Vice-President, Mr. Passeri. They thank Ms. George-Kopp and Mr. Fleming for their continued service as well!

Students Learn About Astronomical Units

BERKELEY – It was all “sun” and games in Ms. Ringel’s class at Berkeley Township Elementary School. They drew the distance between the planets from the sun in astronomical units. Then they played a racing game, running to each planet, reinforcing the names, orders, and relative distances between the planets. They were so surprised how close together the inner planets are, while the outer planets are so big and far apart!

─Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools

Fulfill Meal Distribution At Recreation Center

BERKELEY – Mayor Carmen Amato and Berkeley Township Recreation, in conjunction with Fulfill, remind residents that anyone in need of food, for any reason, is

welcome to come to the Recreation Center on Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. No registration required. The Recreation Center is located at 630 Atlantic City Boulevard, Route 9.

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

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.

─Photo courtesy Ocean Gate School

Discover Your Ocean County Parks - Jakes

Branch County Park

BEACHWOOD – “The Gateway to the Pines,” Jakes Branch County Park offers both active and passive recreation opportunities. The Jakes Branch Nature Center highlights the beauty, history and natural surroundings of the Pine Barrens through informational exhibits, live animals and environmental programs. Breathtaking views of the surrounding Pine Barrens Forest can be taken in from the observation deck perched five-stories atop the nature center. Jakes Branch County Park also offers families the opportunity to picnic, play sports, visit the playground, walk the discovery playtrail or hike and bike our eight plus miles of nature trails.

The nature center staff offers recreation and environmental education programs, both free-of-charge and for a nominal fee, through our quarterly Parks and Recre -

ation Program Guide/Newsletter. Group programs are offered free-of-charge to groups including: schools, scouts, clubs, churches, and civic organizations located within Ocean County. Arrangements can be made in advance by contacting the nature center.

Facilities: Accessible nature center and restrooms, hiking and walking trails, interpretive nature trails, bike trail, discovery play trail, cross-country skiing, open play field, softball fields, baseball fields, multiuse fields, tennis and pickleball courts, basketball courts, playgrounds

Our picnic area can accommodate up to 75 people and is available for a nominal fee. Reservations must be made a minimum of three weeks prior to your requested date. For the Pavilion Reservation & Rules Form call 732-506-9090.

Discover Your Ocean County ParksCloverdale Farm County Park

BARNEGAT – Cloverdale Farm County Park was purchased from Katherine Collins in 2004, who operated the cranberry bogs and tree farm on the property for over 50 years with her husband William. The property has been continuously run as a cranberry farm since the late 1800s. Perhaps the most attractive aspect of the park is its natural beauty. Besides cranberries, the bogs are home to wildflowers, birds, and a host of other flora and fauna. This provides an opportunity for photographers and nature enthusiasts in any season. The 1.4-mile self-guided nature

trail meanders through the farm into undisturbed woodlands that offer an escape from everyday life.

The Visitors Center opened in May of 2015, and contains exhibits that highlight the natural beauty and historical significance of the park. To schedule a group education program, please call the Visitors Center at 609-607-1861.

Facilities: Visitors Center, restrooms, self-guided nature trail, fishing, bird watching, photography, hiking and walking trails, cross country skiing, environmental education and picnic area.

Discover Your Ocean County Parks -

Barnegat

Branch Trail

BARNEGAT – On October 15, 2007 the Barnegat Branch Trail was officially opened to the public. This “rail-to-trail” project follows the abandoned Barnegat Branch Division of the Central Railroad of New Jersey. The trail will be constructed in several phases, and will stretch 15.6 miles from Barnegat to Toms River once completed.

In your travels on the BBT, you’ll encounter many information signs about

Points of Interest or Historical Reference.

As always trail users are urged to be safe and stay aware of their surroundings. Please adhere to closures as this ensures safety of everyone and enables our contractor to complete the work in a timely manner.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Parks Department directly at 732-506-9090.

Berkeley Lady Senior Group Meeting

BERKELEY – Looking to meet new friends and enjoy some coffee, cake and social activity? Come join the Berkeley Lady Senior group. They meet on the 1st and 4th

Thursday of the month at 12 p.m. at The Berkeley Recreation Center on Route 9 in Bayville. Any questions please contact me at cdemand@comcast.net or 732-269-0646.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

• Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

By:

4 Ways Hearing & Vision Work Together

Hearing actually enhances sight, According to a UCLA study, both senses work as a team to help you perceive and participate in the world around you. Study participants ran through a series of trials to correctly identify the direction in which a display of dots moved. Hearing the direction in which the dots were collectively traveling enhanced participants’ ability to see the direction of the movement.

Visually challenged seniors are more likely to experience hearing loss, A study published in the medical journal JAMA Ophthalmology uncovered links between age-related vision and hearing problems. Researchers found that even after considering age, the two conditions are somehow linked and “have a cumulative effect on function and well-being, significantly affecting both physical and mental domains.”

Vision and hearing loss accompany cognitive decline; Research shows that either condition is connected to reduced brain functioning over time. One study found that participants with the most profound vision impairment had the lowest average scores on cognition tests. And hearing-challenged seniors on average

may experience significantly reduced cognitive function at least three years before their normal-hearing counterparts. Healthy eyes and ears help you keep your balance. It’s pretty obvious that seeing your best helps you stay upright, but many people may not realize that the inner ear also plays an important role in maintaining balance. Conversely, untreated hearing loss could nearly triple your risk of a fall, per a study from Johns Hopkins. We all know that eyes and ears play a huge role in experiencing life’s adventures. Seeing and hearing the people, places, and moments that matter create wonderful, lasting memories. What fewer people know is that sight and hearing are intertwined. Here are four reasons to make regular checkups for hearing and vision an important part of your wellness plan:

Hearing and vision work together to help you live your best life, so remember to keep them both healthy. Start with a hearing checkup by contacting us today! 732-818-3610 (Toms River & Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer any hearing care questions you may have. Visit us at www.gardenstate hearing.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!

Hospice Volunteers Needed

OCEAN COUNTY – Compassionate Care Hospice/Amedisys needs volunteers interested in walking along side another. Requirements: compassion and a loving heart! There is training for you and you will become part of a team of professionals who

walk this special journey with another. You will be able to give a patient companionship or a family member respite. If you are interested please call Kathleen O’Connell at 914-275-5766 or Kathleen.oconnell@ cchnet.net.

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

Presented

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

How To Properly Take Gabapentin And Restore Lost Nutrients

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The focus of the blog today is on the number one selling anti-convulsant drug in America, and it’s known chemically as gabapentin. One popular brand name for gabapentin is Neurontin.

Some people take this prescription medicine even though they do not suffer from epilepsy because it seems to help other conditions like pain management, neuropathy or insomnia.

Some off-label uses for gabapentin include anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and possibly even hot flashes.

Gabapentin is a favorite among prescribers because it offers many advantages over traditional anticonvulsants, and sedative-hypnotics. The dosage can be easily changed and titrated upward since it has a wide variety of strengths. Gabapentin may be taken without regard to meals. Do NOT stop gabapentin without a proper taper and physician supervision.

If you have trouble swallowing the capsules, you can empty the contents of the capsule and mix it into applesauce, yogurt, pudding, or grape jelly, really whatever you like! Do not do this if your formula is long-acting or sustained-release.

Knowing what nutrients your drug is stealing (ie the drug mugger effect) can help you solve side effects and that’s my primary goal today. I wrote a whole book to help people on this topic entitled, Drug Muggers which is available by book sellers and Amazon.

Gabapentin is known to reduce or deplete the following nutrients:

• Calcium which leads to bone brittleness

• Vitamin A which leads to visual deficit

• Copper and zinc which leads to hypothyroidism

• B complex which leads to neuropathy

• Vitamin D which leads to immune challenges

Please note the following caution nowhere am I suggesting that you stop your gabapentin. The list of nutrients below and their related deficiency symptoms may lead you to think that the medication is somehow bad for you and that is NOT what I am saying. I am just informing you of the nutrient depletions so that you can supplement properly, and feel better while you take your medication. It’s really for educational purposes, and not intended as advice.

You should have a conversation with your practitioner about what vitamin and mineral doses are right for you, as well as if you should even supplement or not. As for supplementation, if you choose to do that, you should start only one formula at a time. Never begin numerous items at once because there are too many variables and if you are intolerant to something, or reactive you won’t be able to tell which supplement caused the problem. I have a much longer version of this article, along with more cautions. That is posted at my website, suzycohen.com

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

& Reasonable Accommodations For Breastfeeding Mothers

Christopher R. Shea Esq.

By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) amended the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) to include pregnancy, including medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery, as well as breastfeeding, as protected classifications under the law. The PWFA:

• Prohibits employers from treating pregnant or breastfeeding employees less favorably than other employees;

• Requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation upon the request of employees and based on the advice of a doctor, unless the accommodation poses an undue hardship; and

• Examples of pregnancy-related accommodations may include permitting increased breaks for increased water intake, bathroom use, or rest; providing assistance with manual labor; restructuring jobs; modifying work schedules; and temporarily transferring employees to less strenuous work.

• Prohibits employers from penalizing employees who request such an accommodation. Unlike other NJLAD accommodation claims, the PWFA contains its own “analytic structure” to determine a claim for failure to accommodate. Under the PWFA, an employee must show (1) that she was pregnant or breastfeeding; (2) that she made a request for a reasonable accommodation; and (3) that the employer failed to provide a reasonable accommodation.

Critically, employers are required to make such accommodations when an employee requests them, however, once the request is made based on the advice of a physician, the employer in most cases must provide the requested accommodations. With a physician’s note, the only way an employer can avoid having to provide the accommodations is if the

employer can show that the accommodations would impose an “undue hardship” on its business operations. This is typically a very high burden under the law, and is not easy for employers to meet. Some of the factors in this “undue burden” analysis are the overall size of the business; the size of the budget; the nature and costs of the accommodation; and whether the employee can still perform the essential functions of her job.

Notably however the Supreme Court recently stated that unlike the undue hardship defense in other NJLAD accommodation actions; an employee’s inability to perform an essential function of her job is merely a factor to be considered when assessing undue hardship in PWFA cases. As such, the Supreme Court has determined that PWFA cases are the only category of cases where a jury should determine the question of undue hardship.

In summary the PWFA law goes beyond the normal protections extended to disabled employees. In the context of disability laws, such as the NJLAD and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, employers should be cautious in their treatment of pregnant or breastfeeding employees’ special needs and should consider broad any and all forms of accommodations presented. This is particularly true, in the post, covid era where telework has been recognized as a reasonable accommodation by the judicial system and the equal opportunity employment commission.

If you believe you are a victim of employment discrimination based on pregnancy or breastfeeding, contact the Employment Lawyers at R.C. Shea & Associates at 732505-1212, or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.

Trust, Respect, Compassion & Caring

3rd Generation Family Owned & Operated Since 1940 ♦ Affordable Cremations, Burials & Entombments

270 Atlantic City Blvd. ♦ Bayville, NJ 732.269.3100

Anthony P. Mastapeter – Owner NJ Lic. No. 3365 Marc A. Mastapeter – Manager NJ Lic. No. 4873

www.mastapetermemorialhome.com

BAYVILLE – Do you make the meanest pot of chili this side of Ocean County? Start gathering your ingredients and get ready for the Living Water Annual Family Chili Cook-off. Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place will be awarded for the Best Chili!

Come out for dinner and a celebration of their 40 Days of Prayer, you are invited to bring your special chili and

enter the Cook-Off. No need to share your family’s secret recipe, but please bring enough chili to share.

Don’t cook? Just come and sample all the chili while you enjoy some downtime with the family. No registration, just come! Don’t miss it! Invite a friend! The event will take place on February 9 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 333 Route 9 Unit B15, Bayville.

Around the JerSey Shore

Ocean County Parks Accepting Christmas Trees For Recycling

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County residents are being encouraged to make recycling their Christmas trees part of their holiday cleanup.

“For more than 20 years, the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation has collected Christmas trees at a number of our parks throughout the County,” said Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, who serves as Chairwoman to the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. “With so many park locations around Ocean County to choose from, it is easy for our residents to access a nearby park where live trees can be dropped off after celebrating the holiday.”

Last year, more than 1,400 trees were collected at the Ocean County Park sites, most of which went to the Ocean County Recycling Centers to be grinded into wood chips.

Wood chips are offered to residents, and are used for County landscaping projects or things like slope stabilization at Ocean County Natural Lands sites and trail work throughout the Ocean County Park system. In the past, the trees also have been used for beach replenishment projects.

“This program not only helps out our residents, but it also allows the County to use the recycled trees for County projects,” Haines said.

Christmas trees can be dropped off at the following Ocean County park locations from now through January 31:

• Cattus Island County Park, 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard, Toms River Township

• Cloverdale Farm County Park, 34 Cloverdale Road, Barnegat Township

• Wells Mills County Park, 905 Route 532, Ocean Township

• Ocean County Park, 659 Ocean Avenue, Lakewood Township

• Beaver Dam County Park, 3430 Bridge Avenue, Point Pleasant

• Jakes Branch County Park, 1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood

• Mill Creek County Park, 11 Chel-

sea Avenue, Berkeley Township

• Enos Pond County Park, 330 East Lacey Road, Forked River

• Robert J. Miller Airpark, 901 Route 530, Berkeley Township

• Freedom Fields County Park, 1160 Route 539, Little Egg Harbor Township

• Patriots County Park, 485 Bowman Road, Jackson Township

• Stanley H.”Tip” Seaman County Park, 120 Lakeside Drive, Tuckerton

• A. Paul King County Park, 2 W. Bay Avenue, Stafford Township

• Ocean County Golf Course at Atlantis, 261 Country Club Boulevard, Little Egg Harbor Township

• Ocean County Golf Course at Forge Pond, 301 Chambers Bridge Avenue, Brick Township

In addition, Ocean County’s two regional Recycling Centers accept Christmas trees year round during regular business hours (7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday), as well as glitter-free wrapping paper and clean and dry cardboard boxes.

“Our recycling centers allow for residents to recycle a lot of the festive wrapping paper and boxes that would otherwise get thrown away,” said Ocean County Commissioner Barbara Jo Crea, liaison to the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management. “Not only can trees be reused in a new form, but wrapping paper and cardboard boxes can also be reused.”

The Ocean County Southern Recycling Center is located at 379 Haywood Road, Manahawkin. The Ocean County Northern Recycling Center is located at 535 Oberlin Ave. South, Lakewood.

“Ocean County makes its recycling programs accessible and convenient so all of our residents have the opportunity to use them,” said the Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners John P. Kelly. “Our residents have embraced recycling since it was first implemented in the mid-1980s. It’s great to incorporate those efforts into the holiday season and throughout the year.”

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

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

Meetings are in person at their facility and can also be attended via live stream, by visiting qtreatment.com/ family-awareness and clicking the link provided. They take place on the last Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Around the JerSey Shore

Our National Symbol – The Bald Eagle

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

Considered a ‘sea eagle’ they reside and hunt along large lakes and rivers. The conspicuous white feathers of its head are where the name ‘bald’ came from. The female bald eagle is larger than the male in size. Adult females will reach a length of approximately 43 inches with a wingspan of eight feet. Adult males reach a length of about 36 inches with a six-and-a-half-foot wingspan. They will hunt fish out of the water using their talons (nails), but will also prey on other birds, snakes, turtles, crabs, and small mammals. They will also consume carrion

As far back as 1782, the bald eagle has been the United States’ national symbol, where at that time their numbers in the hundreds of thousands. It was due to human activities that their numbers declined over the next two centuries. Since they were a disturbance to livestock, our state and federal governments offered bounties to hunt them. Due to the devastating loss our government enacted the Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940 making it illegal to kill bald eagles. In the period of 1917-1952,

Alaskan bounty hunters had killed more than 100,000 eagles. This protection act does not regulate Alaska.

Despite this Act, the birds’ numbers continued to decline, mostly because DDT, a pesticide used in agriculture after World War II, came into use. Accumulating in the tissues of the birds, the shells of the eggs were thin and weak and easily broken. Fewer young could survive. The United States banned DDT in 1972. By 1978 our federal government declared the bald eagle endangered. All but a few northern states considered the bird endangered. The late 1980s saw the replenishment in numbers in the wild and reclassified their status to threatened in 1995. The U.S. removed the bald eagle in 2007 from list of endangered and threatened species.

Research for this article was gathered from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.

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 includes harm inflicted upon any animal, are punishable under the law.

AS THE LEADING RESOURCE FOR SENIOR VETERANS

the

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, BlueC-

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.

laws Director of Events & Operations. “It’s a true family, and we’re looking forward to another successful hiring season.”

─Photo courtesy BlueClaws

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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

Pets For Sale For Rent

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

Items For Sale

Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

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)

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)

Services Services Services

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

Joint Base Training Noise Moderate For January

By Alyssa Riccardi

LAKEHURST – As the new year begins with a bang, those aren’t fireworks you’re hearing anymore. It’s the soldiers training at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

Every month, JBMDL releases their “Noise Level Calendar” so residents know when to expect mild or severe noise. This is to deter calls to local 911 dispatchers. The calendar is labeled with three different

levels of noise: slight noise, moderate noise and abundant noise.

For the month of January, expect to hear moderate noise. Key days include: January 16 through 22; and January 27 through 30. For the rest of the month, days are scheduled for low noise. No high noise is expected. Noise levels are subject to change without notice due to training requirements and weather, JBMDL said.

Planetarium Holds 50th Anniversary Show For Pink Floyd Album

TOMS RIVER – Fifty years after its conception, Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon is still considered the most recognizable album in rock history. Spending a record-breaking 741 weeks on the US top albums charts, the release cemented Pink Floyd’s reputation as the

premier rock band of a generation. What better way to celebrate the album’s 50th anniversary than to pair it with laser lights! After all, it’s the quintessential soundtrack to laser shows! Show will be on January 27 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Robert J. Novins Planetarium.

HANDS FOR ALL A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC. A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 309 Hooper Ave. • Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

photo of the week

Ocean

OCEAN COUNTY – Regularly Scheduled Board Meetings are held at Commissioner Board Meeting Room #119 First Floor of the Administration Building 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River on Wednesdays (unless otherwise indicated) at 4 p.m. Policy meetings shall be held immediately following the Regular Meetings of the Board of Commissioners, (if circumstances warrant such meeting and time permits) in Room 304, Third

Floor, Administration Building 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River.

Commissioner Meetings Regular Dates: January 4, Organization - 3:30 p.m.; January 18; February 1; February 15; March 1; March 15; April 5; April 19; May 3; May 17; June 7; June 21; July 6 (Thursday); July 19; August 2; August 16; September 6; September 20; October 4; October 18; November 1; November 15; December 6; December 20.

Rita English, a resident of South Plainfield, was in Brick Township last week and captured these Bufflehead Ducks taking off along the Metedeconk River. Amazing and beautiful! If you would like to see your pictures in our Photo of the Week feature, email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com - you may win a prize!

Where one may be taken to be reprimanded

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Using some initiative can make a positive difference in the week to come. You might dream or believe anything you are told. Develop constructive strategies and take practical steps to overcome any family problems.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Loyalty is more than skin deep. Dig deep and you might find that a close friend or cherished partner is a true treasure. You may feel pressured to keep up your end of a bargain as the week begins to unfold.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gratitude is a key ingredient for contentment. Enjoy the things that you already have rather than hoping for things you don’t have. Wait until late in the week to make major purchases or decisions about investments.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Postpone taking on extra obligations or commitments until later in the week. Right now, your efforts could be subject to misunderstandings or cause disruptions. Someone may give you a good reason to mistrust their intentions.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Look for the silver lining in every cloud of controversy. You might not agree on key issues but you can be tolerant of someone else’s point of view. Wait until late in the week to launch fresh initiatives or a new project.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Uphold high standards. Using substandard materials or cutting corners could ruin a project this week. Use a discriminating eye to help you achieve the highest level of quality. Being empathetic is a valuable gift.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Consider who you are dealing with. Consider giving good friends more leeway than business contacts in the upcoming week. Uplift your spirits with a brisk walk outdoors, hitting the gym, or playing sports with friends.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Hit the ground running this week. Your kindness and understanding will likely be needed if a loved one is feeling stressed in the week ahead. If any key vulnerabilities are a concern, mastermind a solution.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): If someone is coming on too strong, try to take it in stride. Focus on creative projects in the week ahead but do not ignore job-related obligations. Got paperwork to do? Get it done and enjoy the relief.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A partner may have high expectations so do your best to deliver. Don’t let dreams and wishful thinking curtail your progress this week. Once you’ve made a firm decision, go full-speed ahead or you might be stuck in neutral.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Preparation and planning can prevent a poor performance. Get organized before you begin a new project in the week ahead. Be sure to observe social cues, consider adding more warmth to your approach.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Walk a balance beam in the week ahead. You can be generous with your time and talents without being extravagant or going to extremes. Don’t let misunderstandings fester this week; clear the air as soon as possible.

MISO PERFECTLY PAIRS WITH SWEET ORANGE AND TENDER SALMON

By America’s Test Kitchen

Miso is a thick paste made from fermented soybeans. Miso and its relatives have been essential ingredients in Japanese, Chinese and Korean cuisines for thousands of years, adding savory umami taste to everything from soups to sauces to pickles. The first step in making miso is preparing a (friendly!) mold called koji (“KO-gee”). The koji is then mixed with cooked, mashed soybeans; salt; and sometimes water. That mixture sits for anywhere from a few weeks to a few years! Over time, the koji starts to break down the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the soybeans. It converts the soybeans’ proteins into amino acids, including glutamic acid, which give miso its trademark savory umami taste. At the same time, the koji turns the carbohydrates in the soybeans into simple sugars, which add some sweetness to the miso. According to the Japan Miso Promotion Board, there are 1,300 different types of miso! The first step in making miso is preparing a (friendly!) mold called koji (“KO-gee”). The koji is then mixed with cooked, mashed soybeans; salt; and sometimes water. That mixture sits for anywhere from a few weeks to a few years! Over time, the koji starts to break down the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the soybeans. It converts the soybeans’ proteins into amino acids, including glutamic acid, which give miso its trademark savory umami taste. At the same time, the koji turns the carbohydrates in the soybeans into simple sugars, which add some sweetness to the miso. According to the Japan Miso Promotion Board, there

are 1,300 different types of miso!

SALMON WITH MISO-ORANGE SAUCE Serves 4

1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest plus 1/4 cup orange juice, zested and squeezed from 2 oranges

3 tablespoons white miso

1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar

1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar

1/4 teaspoon cornstarch

Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

4 (6- to 8-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets

1. Add orange zest and juice, miso, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, and cayenne (if using) to a small saucepan. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.

2. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, sprinkle salt and pepper in an even layer. Place salmon fillets, skin side down, in the skillet. Wash your hands.

3. Cook salmon over medium heat, without moving salmon, until fat begins to puddle around fillets and skin begins to brown, 6 to 8 minutes.

4. Gently slide spatula under fish to loosen skin from skillet, then use tongs to flip fish. Cook, without moving fillets, until the center of each fillet registers 125 degrees on instant-read thermometer, 6 to 8 minutes.

5. Bring miso mixture in saucepan to a simmer (small bubbles should break often across the surface of the sauce) over medium-high heat. Simmer, whisking occasionally, until thickened, about 1 minute. Turn off heat. Spoon glaze evenly over salmon. 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 14 - JAN 20

Jeraldine Saunders

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.