2023-02-04 - The Manchester Times

Community News

Pages 10-16

Dr. Izzy Sound News

Page 20

Therapy Program Brings Music To The Ears Of Students And Educators

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

It is often said that music can bring back emotional memories, change a person’s mood and can bring joy to listeners. Because of this it is very useful for therapy.

The Township School District offers a special Music Therapy program at the Regional Day School. Each week, Hannah Zacharias of Mosaic Music Therapy visits students for fun, engaging and beneficial music therapy sessions.

“Music Therapy has had a positively profound effect on our students,” Regional Day School Principal Lisa Michallis said. “Although our

Town Leaders Argue Over Costly Appointments

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – A councilwoman questioned why important jobs in town were being rushed into place without proper vetting.

Councilwoman Michele Zolezi asked why several resolutions on the list for the Town Council meeting were not included on her agenda. These resolutions were to appoint important – and costly - jobs like township attorney, affordable housing attorney, Open Public Records Act attorney, public defender, two alternate public defenders, and engineering services for water and sewer and engineering services.

“All these other agenda items under ‘appointments,’ those are not on the agenda. When were they put on the agenda?” the councilwoman asked.

teachers are always exposing students to rhythms, basic handheld instruments and various genres of music, the addition of Ms. Hannah’s techniques

(Music - See Page 4)

Classifieds Page 26

For Local Residents, Ciba’s Scars Run Deep

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – Matthew Kelly

made a quick stop in the pouring rain before he headed into Toms River North High School to attend a community meeting on a proposed settlement regarding the Ciba-Geigy superfund site.

Born and raised in Toms River, Kelly was on familiar turf as both a graduate and former teacher at the high school. Unfortunately, with some memories still haunting him, Kelly decided to momentar-

ily pause by the flagpole at the school’s entranceway.

“There’s a list of students that have passed away while they were students here,” shared Kelly. “I stopped and read my cousin’s name. My uncle’s daughter died when she was 16 and a student here. My dad died of pancreatic cancer.”

Kelly said both his father and uncle worked at Ciba-Geigy back when it was Toms River Chemical. When Kelly heard about the plan for the (Residents - See Page 5)

It was not determined who put the items on the agenda.

Township Clerk Sabina Martin confi rmed those agenda items were only added that day, hours before the meeting.

“That’s a problem. It’s ridiculous. There are hundreds of pages here and although we did this the last time (January 3 reorganization meeting) and it was like a growing pain, typically the Council gets these and they review them,” Zolezi explained. She added, “typically we get these agendas with all these items attached which you may or may not see on the (Township) website. I have the original agenda. It is completely disrespectful and unacceptable.

“We typically have an entire weekend to review this. We all work full time and although we are extremely dedicated, we all have a responsibility to the taxpayers of this town and a fiduciary responsibility to the taxpayers of this town for everyone to have access to review all these documents,” Councilwoman Zolezi said. “For this to come in at the last minute is unacceptable and I will make a motion that we table this to the original agenda that we were given.”

With the late notice, she couldn’t see how any of the members of council notified

(Leaders - See Page 8)

-Photos courtesy Manchester Schools Hannah Zacharias of Mosaic Music Therapy visits Regional Day School students for fun, engaging and beneficial music therapy sessions every Tuesday.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan The former Ciba-Geigy property is out of sight, but not out of mind for local residents.

Music:

Continued From Page 1 brings the students joy and confidence in a different way.”

The Music Therapy program began in 2021 and has been proven to increase social, cognitive, communication, fi ne and gross motor skills as well as improve the mental and physical help of individuals with special needs. It is fun, engaging, stimulates the brain and brings people together.

The students at Regional Day School love their Music Therapy according to Michallis. She noted that the school is proud to bring this experience to their students.

She added that Music Therapy is not only promoting music and movement, but it also promotes language and exposes students to different cultures and customs. Some classes are even able to write music and perform for the staff and their families.

Zacharias visits the school every week. There are 61 students in the program. Each student participates twice a month. The school has a rotating schedule and about 30 participate each week. The program also continues during the extended school year program that runs during July and August.

“I attend the school on Tuesdays, and from what I have heard so far, students and staff seem to greatly enjoy the program. I work for the private practice that is Mosaic Music Therapy where we specialize in neuro-rehabilitation and developmental services,” she told The Manchester Times.

Zacharias said, “we are based in Sea Girt, though we outsource to other areas/clientele

in the community such as assisted living facilities, pediatric hospitals, and individual clients who are unable to attend our facility in person.”

The Regional Day School is a division of the Manchester Township School District. It is a public school for students ages three to twenty-one with moderate to significant disabilities. Students from Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties attend the school.

Special education teacher Kimberly Peel said, “music therapy gives all students an outlet to express themselves. My students always enjoy when Miss Hannah comes into our class. It gives them 45 minutes to give their brains a break and to have fun while having the chance to sing and play with all different types of instruments. RDS is very lucky to have this part of our schedule.”

Allison McCann, a preschool disabilities teacher remarked, “Ms. Hannah brings a calm yet engaging energy to our students and connects with them on an individual basis. Music therapy helps them to feel connected to music, singing and exposes them to different instruments. She encourages them to touch her guitar while playing to feel the vibrations and move their bodies freely based on their developmental abilities. We are thankful for music therapy at Regional Day School.”

Special Education teacher Michelle DeSantis noted that the program “has had a positive impact on my class. Students are always left with a smile on their face after having the opportunity to explore instruments and listen to live music.”

“Students in the Intellectual Disabilities program have been able to gain many new skills through Music Therapy sessions. Students enjoy being introduced to new instruments, learning skills like following rhythm and patterns in music, and collaborating with their peers while singing and playing along to their favorite songs,” special education teacher Angela Koletis added.

Zacharias said that when she was offered a position at Mosaic Music Therapy, she was told that a school had inquired about receiving services from the practice. Mosaic was looking for not only another therapist to take on new clients for the practice, but an individual who would be interested in facilitating services at the Regional Day School.

“I enjoy working with music therapy in groups because it is a great way of using music to strengthen social interactions/ communication and promote growth, which is why I was eager to accept the responsibility of bringing music to these amazing students,” Zacharias said.

Zacharias began coordinating with the school’s principal, Lisa Michalis, to formulate a music therapy schedule back in September 2021. “The school was kind enough to provide some musical instruments and equipment they had previously stored and through multiple adjustments regarding session length, settings, participants, and staff assistance, the program was eventually transformed into what it is now.”

She said, in terms of training, “music therapists are required to obtain their bachelor’s degree from an accredited music therapy

program approved by the American Music Therapy Association. Program curriculums include various classes on music therapy such as improvisation, functional music therapy, multicultural music therapy, music therapy orientations, as well as general music classes including music theory, piano, voice, and guitar techniques.

“Throughout their education, music therapy students are assigned to practicum sites to begin applying and practicing the skills they had learned in their other classes. They then complete a six-month internship where they gain experience in the field operating under a supervisor who provides them with feedback and guidance during this time,” Zacharias added.

She noted that some individuals choose to pursue a master’s degree to gain more education and to open up more job opportunities, though it is not a requirement at this time.

“Following our internship, we then must pass a national certification exam to become a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MTBC). This gives us the certification to begin practicing professionally in our field. Many states are also now implementing music therapy licensure to allow for better access to music therapy in healthcare facilities, educational facilities, etc.,” she said. The therapist said, “it also helps to establish a state-based protection program to ensure that music therapy is provided by individuals who have met the educational and training qualifications. Many parents and teachers have expressed their gratitude (Music - See Page 17)

Residents:

Continued

From Page 1

superfund site, his fi rst thought was he’d stay far away from it. Kelly then decided to join in the public discussion opposing the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)’s proposed settlement. He wasn’t alone.

Save Barnegat Bay sponsored the public forum in response to the NJDEP’s announcement of a proposed settlement with the site’s current landowner, BASF. The state agency generally allots 30 days for comments on what are known as National Resource Damages (NRD) matters. That date was extended to sixty days after pressure from local community leaders.

Britta Forsberg, Executive Director of Save Barnegat Bay, opened the presentation with some disturbing facts. The EPA reports that sixty percent of the contaminated groundwater plume remains, with some underneath the communities of Cardinal Drive and Oak Ridge Parkway neighborhoods. “We are concerned about potential threats to future development and contamination there,” said Forsberg. “The risk of having passive recreation on a listed EPA Superfund site is real.”

BASF plans to preserve approximately 1,000 acres of the site and implement ecological or restoration projects. The public would have access to the site for educational opportunities and passive recreation.

The current proposal does not include plans to tell the story of how a renowned pharmaceutical company earned its ill-fated

designation as a superfund site.

A Brief History Lesson

J. Mark Mutter serves as the Toms River historian and is also a past mayor and township clerk. He said that when the Toms River Chemical Company came to town in 1952, Dover Township’s population was just 7,000 as compared to 100,000 people who now live in Toms River.

Many surmise the Switzerland-based company’s move from its Cincinnati operations to a rural and wooded area in the Jersey pines came with a purpose. How better than to hide what actually went on behind the dense forest.

When Mutter was the township clerk, he found a file on Toms River Chemical that contained a single sheet of paper from 1964.

“That fragile one sheet was a Dover Township resolution and agreement, granting the company a right of way to construct and maintain an outfall discharge pipeline,” Mutter said. “Extending from the plant’s headquarters at the western end of the township, through the township, under the township, under the Bay, under Ortley Beach, and out into the ocean at the eastern end of our town.”

A collective gasp went through the audience of approximately 100 people.

Mutter said he spoke with L. Manuel Hirshblond, who signed on as the Toms River clerk in 1967. After all, it certainly seemed odd that the file with the resolution had no memos or reports with it.

“He told me back then that Toms River Chemical ran Toms River,” recalled Mutter.

“That’s one of the reasons why I think we’re here. I guess my friend Manny was correct.”

Not only was Toms River Chemical the largest employer, its employees were also involved in civic affairs and politics. The company did good things – like supporting the construction of what was then Community Hospital.

The legacy that passed from Toms River Chemical and onto to Ciba-Geigy overshadows the idea that either company acted in a spirit of benevolence.

A teenager in the 1970s, Mutter remembered days of swimming at the beach with friends and family. The water was often a murky gray color, and it was impossible to see your feet below on the ocean floor at low tide. The pipeline was visible several hundred feet out into the ocean.

The turning point was in 1984 when the pipeline burst under Bay Avenue and the rupture exposed the company’s operations to a wide audience worldwide.

“Years of controversy led to investigation, litigation and the end of production in 1996,” Mutter said. “In 2000, when I was the mayor, I publicly spoke about Ciba Geigy’s corporate and social responsibility to Toms River.”

Although operations at the plant had ceased, decades of illegal dumping remained. Mutter implored Ciba to donate the cleaned up property to the township for open space preservation and continue its clean up of the contaminated soil and the aquifer below.

Several members of volunteer organizations with impressive backgrounds weighed

in with their knowledge, including Peter Hibbard, the president of Ocean County Citizens for Clean Water.

Hibbard said there was no environmental oversight when Toms River Chemical fi rst came to the town. The disposal of toxic chemicals went directly into recreational waters for several years.

“We learned they were disposing of solid waste near the Manchester town line,” said Hibbard. “But nobody knew what was going in the ground.”

Previous employees of the company said the barrels of waste dumped at that location may still be there.

“Originally, the company’s liquid waste was discharged directly into the Toms River,” Hibbard continued. “Because the color of the wastewater matched the color of the sea of water in the river.”

Some suggest the whole set of circumstances amounts to big business literally getting away with murder.

BASF Enters The Picture

BASF ultimately became owners of the land and promptly filed a tax appeal, saying the property was damaged. They were awarded a $17.3 million abatement that fell on Toms River taxpayers – many who were already scarred by the disregard for clean water and soil from the company back in the woods.

By 2019, BASF decided the same “worthless” piece of property was good enough to construct the largest solar farm in New Jersey.

(Residents - See Page 17)

Leaders:

Continued From Page 1

would have been able to properly review these appointments. “I specifically asked the clerk to please not allow what happened last time to happen because it is not fair to our professionals and it is not fair to our support staff. I don’t think this is an unfair request, I really don’t.”

“I’m not saying these aren’t good professionals, all I’m saying is that we take the proper time to look at it,” Zolezi added. Martin apologized saying “we were scrambling trying to get all these items as quickly as we possibly could.”

“This will give us time to review it. That’s all,” Zolezi said.

Mayor Robert Arace said that “in the condensed timeline and in consideration of all the necessary professionals we need to run the town it seemed more responsible to put them into permanent placement now than to have those in temporary status as there are various projects throughout the town that require the professionals in the town by moving in the fastest way to provide those professionals.”

The mayor added that the council president and other members of council did discuss the appointments listed on the amended agenda.

Zolezi asked, “are you telling me that only certain council people were privy to this information? Because that is a problem. With all due respect we are all council people

here. We are all elected officials and while I absolutely respect your position all I am simply asking for is for us all to have the proper time to review this.”

“We should all be notified,” Zolezi added and when Martin said that “this was not intentional and sometimes this is the way things go” the councilwoman responded, “this isn’t the way things go in Manchester.”

“I’m not trying to give you a hard time but please realize we represent the town and when our residents ask if we had the chance to look at it, we need to be able to agree that these are our professionals,” she added.

Zolezi made a motion for these appointments to be put off so everyone could have the time to make an educated decision. In the meantime, the people currently doing those jobs would have their contracts temporarily extended. No one agreed and the appointments stayed on the agenda. Zolezi abstained from the vote.

ney Jean Cipriani of Rothstein, Mandell, Strohm, Halm & Cipriani as affordable housing attorney, another for Cipriani’s appointment as OPRA attorney, attorney Mathew Sage as public defender and Justin Lamb and Brian Rumpf as alternate public defenders in addition to Lauren R. Staiger as townsip attorney, Remington & Vernick Engineers for Engineering Services for sewer and water and the fi rm of Morgan Engineering as township engineer.

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES

JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES

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There were only three members of council present. Council Vice President James Vaccaro ran the meeting since Council President Roxanne Conniff was absent due to illness. There’s one spot vacant due to retirement. The third was new Councilman Joseph Hankins. Hankins and Conniff ran alongside Arace, winning a majority of the government during November’s election. Vaccaro endorsed Arace last year.

Arace’s team was endorsed by county GOP leader George Gilmore, while Zolezi and the previous mayor were not part of that team. Staiger and Cipriani used to be a members of Gilmore’s fi rm before he was charged with tax evasion. He had stepped away from his practice, and leading the Republicans, and also his membership of the Ocean County Board of Elections until President Trump gave him clemency. He is now back on the Board of Elections, along with Sage, who is a Democrat who ran for office in the past in Toms River. Lamb is a Toms River Councilman and Rumpf is an Assemblyman and former mayor of Little Egg Harbor.

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“I will be abstaining based on principal. I have not had the opportunity to look over each and every one of these so with that being said there are some professionals that in my opinion, are willfully deficient in what they provide compared to other ones that are available. If I had, had the opportunity, I would have spoken about that,” Zolezi added.

The resolutions that were added to the agenda included appointments of attor-

There were also appointments that were not challenged by Zolezi. These included: Chris Kimbiz, Taylor Schandall, and Michael Sullivan to fi ll vacant positions of full time police officers, Joel Baldwin and Mark Rossman to fill the position of Special Law Enforcement Class 3 Officer in the township police department, Teri Giercyk, who took over as township clerk on Feb. 1, as registrar of Vital Statistics, Councilman Vaccaro as a Class III member of the Township Planning Board, Joseph J. Faccone of Samuel Klien and Company as township auditor and Brian Rudisky to the position of deputy emergency management coordinator.

Army Corps Performing Dredging Operation On e Manasquan Inlet

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) announced that the US Army Corps of Engineers will begin a significant dredging operation on the Manasquan Inlet to ensure the channel remains safe for marine traffic.

“The Army Corps will conduct significant dredging of the Manasquan Inlet…in response to repeated concerns

brought to me by local anglers to ensure the channel is safe for boat traffic and to mitigate any potential hazards like the large sandbar that developed last summer,” said Smith.

The imminent dredging project is the result of the Army Corps’ regular monitoring of the Inlet - including a recent survey conducted on January 10 th - that Smith requested in August when a dramatic build-up of sand threatened to bring the busy fishing and boating season to a grinding halt.

Smith said that once the vessel arrives, the Corps will predominantly

work in the Shark River Inlet - while dredging one to two loads of sand in the Manasquan Inlet each day - before shifting fully to the Manasquan Inlet for five days in early February.

“Ensuring the safety of our local fishing and boating community is of paramount importance,” said Smith. “I am grateful for the Army Corp’s response and commitment to keep the waterway clear for our local recreational and commercial vessels as well as their dedicated follow through over the past few months.”

In August, Smith asked the Corps to conduct an emergency survey of the Manasquan Inlet after meeting with leaders in the local fishing industry who raised concerns over a large and

potentially dangerous sandbar that was developing in the waterway.

While the sonar survey of the Inlet showed the channel remained safe for boat traffic at the time, Smith requested the Corps come back every few weeks to repeat the survey out of an abundance of caution.

The dredging will be completed by the Army Corps’ MURDEN vessel - a 156foot by 35-foot split-hull hopper dredge with a draft of five feet that is designed for shallow inlets and rivers along the Atlantic coast.

“Especially with the temperate weather we expect over the next few weeks, the Army Corps’ dredging comes not a moment too soon,” Smith said.

Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez: Lawmakers Push Back Against Biden Administration’s Proposed Asylum Transit Ban

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.-14), alongside Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA), Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX-35), and Rep. Raúl Grijalva (DAZ-07), led a bicameral group of nearly 80 lawmakers urging President Joe Biden to reverse his administration’s expansion of the failed border policy known as Title 42 and to abandon the proposed asylum “transit ban” rule.” The lawmakers also encouraged the President and his administration to work with Congress to ensure they develop safe, humane, and orderly border policies that enforce our immigration laws and uphold the right to asylum under domestic and international law.

“The administration’s announced border enforcement actions circumvent [domestic and international] law by not only expanding Title 42 beyond what is required by any court but by further implementing policies to deter and penalize people exercising their legal right to seek asylum at the border,” wrote the bicameral group of lawmakers to President Biden. “…We are therefore distressed by the deeply inconsistent choice to expand restrictions on asylum seekers after your administration determined it was no longer necessary for public health. Title 42 circumvents domestic law and international law. Human rights groups have extensively documented more than 10,000 violent attacks – including kidnappings, serious assaults, and deaths – against individuals who were expelled to or blocked in Mexico due to Title 42 since the beginning of your administra-

tion, with a disproportionate impact on Black, Brown, LGBTQ+, and Indigenous migrants.”

Sens. Booker and Menendez and Reps. Ocasio-Cortez and Casar hosted a press conference outside the Senate steps to detail their request to President Biden.

“We are further concerned by the administration’s announcement that it will be issuing a proposed rulemaking in the coming days that would require asylum seekers to fi rst apply for asylum in a transit country instead of allowing them to seek their legal right to asylum at our southern border. This, in effect, is a transit ban. The courts rightly rejected the Trump administration’s attempt to categorically end asylum when he similarly required asylum seekers to seek asylum in transit countries,” added the lawmakers.

“Specifically, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals found that the Trump-Era Third Country Transit ban violated well-settled U.S. asylum laws that prohibit turning people away unless they have ‘firmly resettled’ in a transit country, especially not if conditions in the transit country are not safe… At the time of this ruling, countries across the Western Hemisphere were unable to meet such requirements. There does not appear to be evidence to show that country conditions in transit countries have improved since the relevant appellate decision was rendered as to justify a new Third Country Transit bar. As the administration well knows, current conditions in Mexico – the primary transit country – cannot ensure safety for the families seeking refuge in the United States.”

“It is unconscionable that asylum

seekers have no option but to sleep in the streets of El Paso, in overcrowded shelters in Juarez, or in tents in Reynosa, but new asylum restrictions against migrants will not solve this problem. We believe that your administration can and must continue to expand legal pathways for migrants and refugees into the United States – without further dismantling the right to seek asylum at our border. This right is a pillar of the post-war international order to which the United States has committed itself. We are ready to work with you to ensure that we can have a safe, humane, and orderly border that upholds the right to asylum,” concluded the lawmakers.

Joining Sens. Booker, Menendez, Luján, and Padilla in signing the letter in the Senate are Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Peter Welch (D-VT). Joining Reps. Ocasio-Cortez, Casar, and Grijalva in signing the letter in the House are Reps. Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Juan Vargas (D-CA52), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.-13), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.-16), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-At-Large), Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.-07), Hank

Johnson (D-GA-04), Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.-09), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA-29), Judy Chu (D-CA28), Lou Correa (D-CA-46), Cori Bush (D-MO-01), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.-06), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), Adam Smith (D-WA-09), Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05), Shri Thanedar (D-MI13), Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Becca Balint (D-VT-At-Large), Grace Napolitano (DCA-31), Mark Takano (D-CA-39), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.-06), Robert Garcia (DCA-42), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-03), Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-N.M.-03), Norma Torres (D-CA-35), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Rob Menendez (D-N.J.-08), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Donald Payne Jr. (D-N.J.-10), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Adam Schiff (D-CA-30), Ted Lieu (D-CA-36), Jill Tokuda (D-HI02), Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.-15), Linda Sanchez (D-CA-38), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-03), Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12), Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), Katie Porter (D-CA-47), and Summer Lee (D-PA-12).

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February Programs For Adults At Library

MANCHESTER – Did you know that the Manchester Library offers free programs for adults every month? They have something for every interest! Here is a list of the programs for February:

In the Driver’s Seat – Steering Finances for Caregivers and Survivors. February 6 at 2 p.m. Learn more about the responsibilities of caring for and protecting another person’s finances. Presented by M&T Bank.

African-American Contributions to Jazz – February 11 at 2 p.m. Celebrate Black History Month with a concert by the Florian Schantz Jazz Combo.

Preventing Medicare Fraud - Don’t be a Victim – February 13 at 10 a.m. Find out how to protect yourself against Medicare fraud, waste and abuse. The presenter is Charles Clarkson, Esq., from Senior Medicare Patrol who will also answer your questions. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Manchester Branch.

per month on the third Friday. Coloring is a great method of stress relief for adults! Spend a relaxing afternoon creating art, listening to soothing music and relaxing with like-minded adults at the library! Coloring sheets and simple crafts are provided along with crayons, markers, and pens. Alternatively, you can bring your own coloring projects and coloring tools. For even more de-stressing, we offer aromatherapy and therapy animals when they are available.

From Click to Cart – February 21 at 10 a.m. Online grocery shopping overwhelming? Worried about shopping for food in the snow? Get the simple basics on what your favorite grocery stores offer online and get the convenience of filling your cart from the comfort of your home.

Please

Matinee Movie – February 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. The Manchester Branch will be showing a recent feature film in commemoration of Black History Month. Contact the library for specific details.

How to Sleep When You Can’t Sleep: Holistic and Natural Ways to Overcome Insomnia – February 16 at 2 p.m. A certified nutritionist will teach you how to fall asleep naturally and holistically. The Friends of the Manchester Branch Library are paying for this program.

Calming Coloring – February 20 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. This meets regularly once

Make an Ice Cream Cone Bird Feeder –February 22 at 2 p.m. February is National Bird Feeding Month. Help your feathered friends make it through the winter by creating cheap and easy bird feeders from grocery store items. We will be using bird seed, ice cream cones, oat cereal, peanut butter and string.

Registration in advance is required for all these programs. To sign up or obtain more information, call 732-657-7600 or go online to the library’s Calendar of Events at theoceancountylibrary.org.

Registration for the Manchester Shore Memory Café goes through the sponsoring organization instead of through the library. The Manchester Branch of the Ocean County Library is located at 21 Colonial Drive in Manchester Township.

It’s Time For Comfort

WHITING – What means comfort better than SOUP? The Whiting United Methodist Church wants to help with that! We are again collecting cans of Soup for the local food banks for our annual Souper Bowl. Collections of canned soup, protein, vegetables or stews can be dropped off at our church now through February 9. All donations will be blessed on SuperBowl February 13.

Maybe you need some comfort too? We can also help there. Join us every

Wednesday in March beginning on March 1 at 5 p.m. for our Lenten Soup Suppers with devotions. The community is invited to attend this annual free event. We will be taking a free will offering. Our congregation is providing their homemade soups and deserts. And you will find comforting fellowship when you join us!

We are located at 55 Lacey Road in Whiting. Our office is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

2023 Power In e Pines

Air Force Base Open House

LAKEHURT – The 2023 Power in the Pines Air & Space Open House will be hosted at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst from May 20 to 21. This event is free

WHITING – Fernwood Women’s club will be sponsoring a program for Women’s History Month on March 10 at 7 p.m. called The Women Spies of WWII. This is an “in- period” costume presentation. All are

and open to the public. Check back for more details.

The USAF F-16 Viper Demonstration will headline the event along with other performers.

welcome. Program to be held at 1 Falmouth Avenue, Whiting. An RSVP is required in order to prepare refreshments and seating. Call Beverly at 973-652-8310 or Kathy at 732-261-8893 to reserve a seat.

“ e Women Spies Of WWII”

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Crestwood Village Six Movie Night

WHITING – On February 10, “Ticket to Paradise” will be shown. This is a romantic comedy about the sweet surprise of second chances. Academy Award winners George Clooney and Julia Roberts star as a divorced couple who race to Bali, Indonesia to stop their lovestruck daughter from marrying a seaweed farmer. The movie is rated PG-13 and runs 1 hours and 44 minutes and shown closed-captioned for the hearing impaired. Extra Bonus Features will be shown immediately after the film.

Doors opens at 5 p.m. and the movie starts

Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg Announces Dean’s List

MANCHESTER – Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg congratulates the more than 1,870 students who were named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List.

To qualify for Dean’s List, a student must earn a grade point average of 3.5

at 6 p.m. Come early to sit, chat and enjoy light refreshments that will be served until 5:45 p.m. The movie will be shown at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting/Manchester off of Route 530. Feel free to bring your own chair or cushion, if the provided chairs do not suit you, however, please do not block others’ views. All are welcome for the cost of $3.00 which includes your refreshments. Feel free to bring your own snacks. Non-residents of Crestwood Village Six are always welcome. Any questions call Arlene at 732-408-5147. or higher (based on 4.0) during the semester.

Mia Perez, a PT-Early Childhood (PK4) major, of Manchester Township Gabrielle Wetzel, a Spec Ed(PK-12)/ EChild(PK-4) major, of Whiting

School District’s Strategic Planning Community Event

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township School District is creating a plan for our future. We need you to be an active participant! The strategic planning event that is planned for March 16, 5:30 p.m. at MTHS is designed to

provide parents, families and the community with the opportunity to share their opinions on priority areas of focus that drive the future of the Manchester Township School District. RSVP at manchestertwp.org/news.

Crestwood Village 1 Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 will be hosting a dance on March 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. Music by DJ Louie. Set-ups included; BYOB and anything you would like to eat at your table.

Doors open at 5:45 p.m. and close 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10, 412 at the door. On sale at Crestwood Village 1 Auditorium on Tuesdays mornings from 9 to 11 a.m. Tables can be reserved when tickets are purchased in blocks of eight. No refunds unless dance is cancelled.

Recreation Department Now Hiring

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Recreation Department is now accepting applications for summer seasonal employment for the following positions; lake supervisors, badge sellers, beach attendants, lifeguards, camp counselors

and bus drivers. Visit to apply: primepoint.net/Recruitment/#/MCHTWP/ home.

You must create an account first and then apply for the position. Do not apply on Facebook.

Annual Valentine’s Dance

For Special Needs Students

MANCHESTER – The Valentine’s Dance for the school district’s special needs students is being held on February 11, from 12 to 2 p.m. at Ridgeway Elementary School. Celebrate with an afternoon of music, dancing and food hosted by the Manchester

Township School District in partnership with our school staff, parent and community organizations.

We hope that you can join us! RSVP by February 3, here: bit.ly/ValentinesDanceRSVP.

Check out Micromedia Publications’ website, jerseyshoreonline.com

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.

Winter Reading And Writing Fun Workshop

MANCHESTER – The fi rst grade classes at Ridgeway Elementary School hosted a Warm Winter Reading and Writing Fun Workshop.

Parents and family members were invited to visit to participate in the various stations that the classrooms set up to review the student’s reading and writing skills. They spelled in “snow,” played hide and seek snowman with trick words, completed the Hot Cocoa Reading challenge and much more.

Crestwood Village 1 Casino Bus Trip

WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 will be hosting a Casino Bus Trip to Harrah’s Atlantic City on February 23. Bus departs at 10 a.m. at Friendship Hall. Arrives at Harrah’s at 11:15 a.m.; Leaves

Harrah’s at 6:30 p.m.; Arrives at Friendship Hall at 7:45 p.m.

Tickets on sale at the Crestwood Village 1 Auditorium, 92 Fairway Lane, on Tuesday’s from 9 to 11 a.m. No refunds unless trip is cancelled.

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

–Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

C OMMUNITY N EWS

A Celebration Of Students

MANCHESTER – Each month, the Board of Education and School District Administration recognize and celebrate the achievements of students from each of the District’s schools! The January recognitions included: Girl Scouts Angelina Taylor, Mia Caruso, Molly Pease and Isabel Finn Dimeo were celebrated for earning their Silver Award, along with 55 other girls from Ocean and Monmouth County. Only 10% of girls that seek this award actually meet all of the requirements!

From the elementary level they celebrated Tevon Gayle from Ridgeway Elementary who is a Star Student! Tevon moved to the United States from Jamaica and is working so hard to adapt to school in America. He is growing and excelling at Ridgeway Elementary both socially and academically. They celebrated Joseph Murray who is a part of the fifth grade Gifted and Talented Program at MTES. Joseph is recognized for his hard work on his Passion Project about American History and Geography as well as for developing a Jeopardy game around the topics for his classmates. They also celebrated Blake Cortez of Whiting Elementary. The culmination of Blake’s hard work and ingenuity on his Passion Project resulted in the creation of a robot that speaks, responds and identifies color on your command through code.

From the Regional Day School they celebrated Daniel Sarana for always showing kindness to his classmates and for being very respectful towards staff.

From Manchester Township Middle School they celebrated Collin Nolan. Collin is a part of the Junior Volunteer program at All Fur One Pet Rescue. Once a month, he donates his time to help care for the resident cats who are up for adoption as well as learn about volunteering, fostering, and animal welfare. Collin is also developing an app that would help people decide which cat to adopt.

They also celebrated Manchester Middle School Athletes of the Month Makayla Lawson and Cole Wilson. Cole is on the wrestling team and Makayla is on the cheerleading team. Cole and Makayla work just as hard in the classroom as they do in the athletic arena and serve as an excellent example to our younger students/athletes.

From Manchester Township High School they celebrated Olivia Fiedler, (Grade 11) Juliana Cackowski (Grade 11), & Riley Reardon (Grade 12). When recent news broke of police rescuing 180 animals from an unfit home in Brick, these three students jumped to action and created the “Pet Rescue Mission Relief Drive” service project to benefit local animal shelters who were inundated with this huge influx of new animals, including Northern Ocean County Animal Shelter. Students collected two large flat beds and several trunks full of donations. In addition to the usual donations of blankets, food, and supplies, the students also collected crates, pet carriers and unique supplies like heating pads and kitten formula.

They also celebrated Manchester Township High School’s Athletes of the Month Andrew Perez and Devyn Quigley. Andrew is the MTHS Wrestling Captain currently holding a 15-1 on the season and a GPA of 99.2. Andrew is a member of the Jazz Band and the Percussion Leader for the Concert Band. Furthermore, he is the Assistant Editor of the student newspaper The Talon. Andrew will be continuing his academic & wrestling career at Ursinus University, majoring in Health & Exercise Physiology. Devyn is a member of the National Honor Society and the MTHS Girls Basketball team averaging 40 ppg, 12 rpg, and 5 spg. She recently joined the 1,000-point club and broke the WOBM Christmas Classic Single Game scoring record with 47 pts. vs. Pt. Boro. She has also broken the Tournament Scoring record with 128 points in 3 games.

– Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Emergency Response Team Train For SWAT Scenarios

New Pastor At Whiting Assembly Of God

WHITING – On December 18, 2022, Whiting Assembly of God elected Reverend Todd Huff and his wife Stephanie to pastor our church, beginning officially on January 22. Pastor Todd replaces our pastor of 12 years, Reverend David Charlesworth, who retired in October 2022.

Pastor Todd has been associated with First Assembly of God in Freehold for 23 years, and has been their Children’s Minister for 18 years. His strengths are preaching and counseling. He also plays several instruments and enjoys mastering new technology. His wife of 21 years, Stephanie teaches preschool children in Neptune Township for the past 24 years as well having ministered side by side with Pastor Todd.

We are all looking forward to 2023 as a year of expansion and new beginnings. We continue to meet for Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. and Wednesday Prayer and Praise at 2 p.m. Dr. Sandra Dennis

GERALDINE OLIVERIE, MGR. LIC #3833 MICHAEL HENNICKE, DIR. LIC #3966

–Photo courtesy Manchester Division of Emergency Services MANCHESTER – On January 23, members of the Manchester Emergency Response Team (ERT) trained on moving and lifting injured offi cers in a SWAT team scenario. Manchester ERT are deployed to render medical support of SWAT and law enforcement operations. Members have additional specialty training in casualty care, movements, and trauma care.

– Photo courtesy Whiting Assembly of God will reopen her Bible Study on February 7 at 1:30 p.m.

Manchester HS Senior Selected For Elite All Shore Chorus

MANCHESTER – Congratulations to Manchester Township High School Senior Aaliyah Douglas who was chosen to perform in the All Shore Chorus, a select group of students from choirs in Ocean and Monmouth Counties!

The All Shore Chorus, established in 1962, brings together the best high school choir singers from Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The organization strives to challenge our students by performing academic pieces that prepare them for singing beyond high school.

Aaliyah was among many students who complete in a rigorous audition process. Since selected, she will attend ten rehearsals throughout the month of January ahead of the annual performance. This year’s performance will be February 4 at Monmouth Regional High School. The concert is open to the public. Congratulations Aaliyah!

Crestwood Village 3 Residents Club Dinner Event

MANCHESTER – Crestwood Village 3 Residents Club will hold an Italian dinner event on February 18 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Cost is $15 per person. BYOB. Included: pasta, meatballs, salad, bread, dessert, coffee, tea, soda and water. Tickets on sale at Unity Hall on Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. No refunds unless cancelled. For any questions, call 732-993-7100.

So ball League Seeking New Players

MANCHESTER – Manchester Senior Softball League is looking for softball players who would be interested in joining the league for the 2023 season to play Recreational Softball. Games are played Monday and Wednesday mornings, May through August. For additional information contact Fred Bohinski @ 848-261-1884.

Manchester Recreation’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt

MANCHESTER – Manchester’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be on April 2. The event will start at 10 a.m. and is a free event for children ages 2 to 10 and preregistration is required. Please register at: parksrec. egov.basgov.com/manchesternj.

Preregistration is required. The deadline to register is March 27.

2ft Sub (Italian, American or Chicken)

Tray Bu alo Wings

1 Italian Assortment Platter (Mini Plain Rice Balls, Fried Ravioli, Zucchini Sticks, Mozzarella Sticks & Pigs in a Blanket )

A Little Bit of Italy Around the Corner

Jackson Square Plaza

(between Bartley Rd. & Harmony Rd.) 180 N. County Line Road, Jackson P: 732-942-1151 • P: 732-942-1152

STORE HOURS

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm • Sun 8am-4pm

Antipasto

Cold Antipasto

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

CHIMNEYS • GUTTERS

ROOFING • MASONRY

Busy Bee

$39 CHIMNEY CLEANING – $85 GUTTER CLEANING

732-240-0488

Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Place Of Death, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory

Universal Preschool Parent Academy Successful

MANCHESTER – The January Universal Preschool Parent Academy was a big success, officials said. The evening started by offering a preschool registration event for the 2023-24 school year 30 minutes prior to the session. This will be held before each monthly Parent Academy.

The event then moved on to this month’s topic which was Age Appropriate Interventions to Manage Children’s Behavior. There was a strong attendance where Morgan Cassella, the Preschool Intervention and Referral Specialist, presented and Jessica Brosnan, the Community and Parent Liaison, facilitated the meeting.

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certified Copies Of Death Certificates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

Registration for the school district’s free Universal Preschool Program is always rolling and currently open for the 2023-24 school year but spots are fi lling up quickly. Parents/guardians can register online through the district website at manchester-

– Photo

twp.org/preschool and/or attend a monthly registration event.

The next registration event is February 22 at 5:30 p.m. at MTES followed by the Parent Academy Meeting. The February Parent Academy topic is “Ways to Raise a Reader.”

courtesy Manchester Schools

Residents:

Continued From Page 5

“BASF is receiving conservatively $500,000 a year as a result of this lease agreement,” shared Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill. “With three five year extensions, BASF will conservatively make another $20 million over the length of that lease.”

BASF will also be permitted to market an additional 250 acres of land for a profit under the terms of the proposed settlement agreement. Hill believes that the property should be deeded to Toms River and preserved as compensation for the damage done to the town.

The Proposed Settlement

The six page document comes with some statements related to the hazardous substances dumped during the manufacture of dyes, pigments, resins, epoxy additives and other possible contaminants.

Authorities feel certain the clean up isn’t nearly done and called on the DEP to ensure that history does not repeat itself.

“The town has never been invited to participate in settlement discussions,” said Hill. “This is a case of David versus Goliath; and it’s time for the DEP to side with David, not Goliath.”

Hibbard suggested that approving the superfund site for recreational purposes would be analogous to Love Canal, where taxpayers could be burdened with the expense of harm caused by contamination.

“This land is not pristine, and it’s con-

Music:

Continued From Page 4

and satisfaction for the program.”

“I have been told many students are now more verbal during classes, including those who experience difficulty in communication. Teachers have noticed an increase in attention and self-esteem with older students, and more impulse control in younger students,” she said.

She added that parents have reported an increase in motivation to participate in music, as well as other classroom discussions and activities. “I have also received great feedback from our end-of-the-year performance showcase that the students participate in.

“Many parents and teachers love seeing the students succeed musically and exhibit confidence in their abilities. Music therapy involves the use of music and music techniques to achieve social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual goals that help guide an individual towards success,” Zacharias said.

“Though many are not aware of its benefits, it is continuing to acquire more recognition and we hope that knowledge of the career keeps growing,” she added.

Michallis added, “we are very fortunate to have this very valuable program through the support of our Superintendent of Schools, Central Office Personnel and Board of Education. We look forward to our Spring Showcase.”

taminated,” Hibbard reiterated. “The open space plan and the environmental facility proposed would be a desirable use of land as long as it had not been contaminated by the Superfund concerns.”

Christine Girtain, a Toms River high school science teacher and director, holds the impressive title as New Jersey’s State Teacher of the Year. She shared her thoughts on the proposal, as a lifelong resident and mother of school aged children.

Girtain recalled the year she was a sixth grader and Ciba Geigy sponsored a poster competition for kids to portray something on endangered species. Her teacher, Shelia McVeigh, suggested the kids should draw themselves since Ciba-Geigy was endangering their lives.

As far as the idea of an Environmental Center on the property, Girtain agreed with the other presenters. However, she added that if it came to be, it needed to be more

than a history of the Pine Barrens. “The kids need to know the history and the pollution that’s there,” said Girtain. “They need to know the names of the people that died from that.”

A future workforce could be trained on that land according to Girtain – with studies that address issues like clean water, sustainability and soil health. Top of the line labs could be set up to give tomorrow’s scientists the best set of tools.

CHRISTOPHER T. LILLO, D.M.D.

Sound News

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

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

Wondering About OTCs? We Can Help

Last fall, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration published fi nal rules establishing a new class of hearing devices — those available over the counter (OTC). Though specific to the United States, the new category may understandably spark questions for anybody seeking hearing care. What does it mean for you? More than ever, it’s important to seek hearing help from a trained hearing care professional. Hearing loss is complex, and self-treating could worsen an existing problem. Working with a highly trained provider can help you make safe, effective decisions for your ear health.

OTC Hearing Aids Are for Adults

Only The new class of FDA-regulated hearing instruments will be approved only for those 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. They will not be available for children and might not align with one’s actual hearing loss, which could be greater than perceived. The majority of the company’s offering OTCs do not require a hearing test so basically, you’re fitting yourself with a non-prescriptive hearing instrument!

The Right Fit Plays a Big Role To maximize comfort and functionality, hearing aids must be custom fitted to each individual and programmed to support their listening lifestyle.

Hearing professionals are especially skilled in helping ensure the right fit now and in the future as your hearing needs change.

You May Need Other Support Hearing loss can go hand in hand with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or balance issues and is also associated with serious conditions such as dementia. A comprehensive hearing evaluation may help uncover additional medical needs that self-treating would likely not detect.

Self-Treatment Bypasses Critical Diagnostics

It takes a trained professional to get to the bottom of hearing loss, which can have causes ranging from earwax buildup to head trauma, noise exposure, infection, disease, or even some medications. Self-treating without the benefit of a diagnostic evaluation can mean missing key answers.

In a world of choices, deciding the right approach for your hearing wellness can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone. We’re here to help with the personalized advice and care you deserve. So don’t wait. Call to schedule your appointment today! Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with solutions for your hearing care needs. Please visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

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!

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

6 Tips For Healthy Postpartum Care

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The postpartum period can be overwhelming and challenging if it’s your first child, but it can also be a special time for bonding with your new baby. With the sudden drop in progesterone hormone after childbirth, the blues can occur and this can take a toll in the first few weeks. If depression occurs, it can be a difficult situation, but it is important to prioritize your own well-being so you can ultimately give more to your new family.

Here are 6 tips to help a new mom navigate postpartum depression:

1. Bond with your baby. This is a special time for you to get to know your new little one. Spend time cuddling, talking to, and looking at your baby. This will also help to build a strong attachment between the two of you.

2. Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. They can help with things like cooking, cleaning, and taking care of the baby. You may also want to consider hiring a postpartum doula to help with breastfeeding and baby care.

3. Join a support group or play group with other moms. You are not alone in this journey, and connecting with other new moms can be a great way to fi nd support, advice, and friendship. You can find support groups online or in your local community.

4. Consider therapy or counseling. It is normal to have a range of emotions during the postpartum period, but if you

find yourself struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, seeking therapy or counseling can be a helpful.

5. Take time for self-care. Make time to do things that you enjoy and make you feel good. This can be anything from reading a book, walking, or having a bath.

6. Keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to process your emotions and reflect on your experiences. You can also look back on it later and see how far you’ve come.

Being a new mom is a wonderful and rewarding experience but can also be challenging especially in the first few weeks when you’re missing so much sleep! If you are having trouble with breastfeeding, let your baby set the pace and keep yourself hydrated. I have more tips on postpartum depression and breastfeeding in the longer, more detailed version of this article which is posted on my website. To read that version, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my free weekly email.

In summary, be patient with yourself and your baby. Your baby is new to the world, just like you are new to being a parent. Be patient and understanding with yourself and your baby. You will both make mistakes, but you will also make progress. You are going through a lot right now and it is okay to take a break when you need it. With time, you will find your footing and will be able to navigate the postpartum period with ease.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com)

©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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• Get the help you need without having to sacrifice your career, drop out of school, or miss out on important obligations

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• Live full-time inside the facility, with medication management & monitoring

• Have a more structured daily life, with the entire day planned out for you by professionals

It’s all about you. Angelic Health provides healthcare in your home, managing the complexity and challenges of medical, mental healthcare and psychosocial needs. Our professional and experienced clinical sta supports both patient and family.

www.Angelic.health

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Timothy McDonald Chosen 2023 Library Commission Chair

Paul

a new

five year term as Ocean County Library Commissioner, becoming the Ocean County Library’s longest serving Library Commissioner, with 39 years of dedicated service.

Henry J. Mancini, Christopher J. Mullins, Bonnie R. Peterson, and Ruthanne Scaturro round out the 2023 Library Commission membership.

“I am incredibly honored to be named Chair of the fi nest library system in the State of New Jersey,” McDonald said. “Our 21 county-wide branches and reading centers offer a host of programs, ranging from music, to book talks, to craft classes and everything in between.”

Mc Donald added that evolving digital technology adds a valuable new dimension to books, videos, and compact discs. “With apps such as Libby, Hoopla, and Freegal Music, you can read, watch, or listen to an ever-growing list of titles, music and videos,” he said.

An Ocean County resident since 1985, Mr. McDonald lives with his wife, Laura, in Lacey Township, where he serves as Mayor and holds a seat on the Township Committee. He is semi-retired from his 33year career in the financial service industry.

Ocean County Library Director Susan Quinn, along with administrators and staff, wish to extend special thanks to past Chair Ruthanne Scaturro and to past Vice Chair Christopher Mullins for their service to the organization from 2020 through 2022, and for their exemplary leadership during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic period.

Enjoy A BlueClaws Game While Supporting An Important Cause!

LAKEWOOD – The Jersey Shore BlueClaws welcomes Family Promise of the Jersey Shore to ShoreTown Ballpark on the afternoon of April 30. Enjoy a BlueClaws game while supporting an important cause! For each ticket purchased, a portion of the proceeds will go back to Family Promise of the Jersey Shore! For tickets call 609-9943317 or email fpsocstaff@gmail.com.

TOMS RIVER – Timothy McDonald was named Chair of the Ocean County Library Commission for 2023 at the Commission’s January 17 Reorganization Meeting.

Wolleon was chosen to serve as Vice Chair, and Susan Hutler as liaison to the Ocean County Library Foundation. Mrs. Hutler was also reappointed to

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

New Gun Carry Permit Law Now In Effect

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

The rules on robocalls and robotexts:

• FCC rules limit many types of robocalls, though some calls are permissible if prior consent is given.

• Rules differ between landline and wireless phones; however, calls and text messages have the same protection under FCC rules.

• Wireless and landline home phones are protected against telemarketing robocalls made without prior written consent from the recipient.

• An existing commercial relationship does not constitute permission to be robocalled or texted.

• Consent to be called or texted cannot be a condition of a sale or other commercial transaction.

• Consumers can take back their permission to be called or texted in any reasonable way. A calling company cannot require someone to fill out a form and mail it in as the only way to revoke consent.

• All non-emergency robocalls, both telemarketing and informational, require a consumer’s permission to be made to a wireless phone. These calls can include political, polling, and other non-telemarketing robocalls.

• Telemarketers and robocallers are allowed to call a wrong number only once before updating their lists. This most commonly comes up when someone who consented to be called or texted gave up that

number, which was reassigned to someone else. Callers have resources available to them to help them know ahead of time if a number’s “owner” has changed.

• Urgent calls or texts specifically for health or fraud alerts may be allowed without prior consent. They must be free, and consumers can say “stop” at any time.

• Phone companies face no legal barriers to offering consumers the use of technologies that block robocalls to any phone. The FCC encourages companies to offer this resource.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• To block telemarketing calls, register your number on the Do Not Call list - which protects both landline and wireless phone numbers: www. donotcall.gov,

• Ask your phone company to offer robocall-blocking technology.

• If you use robocall-blocking technology already, it often helps to let that company know which numbers are producing unwanted calls so they can help block those calls for you and others.

• Tell unwanted callers that you do not consent to the call, make a record of the caller’s number and when you made your request not to be called, and let the FCC know if the caller does not comply with your request.

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

That’s right! Celebration. While there are many who complain about the groundhog, what they may not understand is how necessary they are. The services they perform benefit humans, farmers, gardeners, and even other species.

Can their burrows cause problems? Yes. A burrow located under protective fences used to keep other pests out, now allows access. In fields where tractors are used, can cause the ground to collapse under the weight of tractors. In rare cases burrows can affect the foundation of building. In comparison to the advantages of having groundhogs, those risks are minimal. The most obvious benefits would be that they are responsible for aerating the soil. The same soil that contributes to the growth of plants. Soil that is unturned becomes limited in oxygen, making the roots hard to breathe.

Groundhogs burrowing helps to mix the organic matter that accumulates on top of the soil. Within that mix are carbohydrates which helps to feed organisms like worms and mites. Other nutrients such as phosphorus, iron and calcium will leach from the top of the soil as rainwater sends them deeper into the ground. The groundhog digs its burrow, and this process delivers these nutrients deeper. As a result, this provides food for microorganisms, bringing minerals to the surface for plants to reuse them. It’s a process that is necessary.

The burrows of groundhogs are more than holes in the underground. While the groundhog gets the negative reputation, the reality is that other species will share these burrows, which are a network of rooms where animals such as rabbits, raccoons and skunks can occupy. Depending upon where you live, other larger creatures such as snakes, otters, foxes, will take over a burrow after a groundhog has moved out. These animals are natural predators who will prey on agricultural pests.

So, when you see a groundhog, maybe you

Berkeley Lady Seniors Trips

BERKELEY – Berkeley Lady seniors are going to Woodloch Resort in the Poconos May 15 for their spring getaway. They have the best food and entertainment and lodging on the lake. The price is double $836 each, single $985 or a triple for $688. They leave from Pine Beach. A $l00 deposit will hold your room.

On October 14, they are sailing to Bermuda from Bayonne on Royal Carribean’s Liberty of the Sea. They have a wonderful group of people that they travel with and hope you’d like to join. A balcony cabin is $1,670; an Oceanview is $1,508; and inside cabin is only $1,250. For two. A deposit for the cruise is $500. For more information or flyers, call Marge at 239 272-6857. This summer, they will be going to Surfl ight Theater and Hunterdon Hills Playhouse.

In Celebration Of … e Groundhog AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

will look upon them as an important resource and appreciate them for all the benefits they bring to many!

Information for this article from was gathered

through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/or

federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which includes harm inflicted upon any animal, are punishable by law.

For Rent

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

Real Estate

Lakewood 55+ Covington Village - Newer construction, gorgeous 2BR/2BA Condo 1165 sqft, hdwd floors; CAC; Washer/Dryer; balcony, pool, gym/amenities; billiard/card/theater rooms; parking; $2,700/Taxes; $416/HOA; ONLY $239,000; 201 390-7377/Julianne_ matskin@yahoo.com (11)

Bus Trips

Philadelphia Flower Show - Bus

Trip Saturday, March 11. $88 includes admission and bus fare. Toms River departure. Call Bill, Morano Tours, 732-278-2059 (9)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL-

RY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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)

Junk or Wrecked Cars and Trucks

Wanted - Cash paid. 732-6577251, Steve. Thanks. (8)

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. (9)

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)

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)

Ca$h Paid For Old 45 RPM

Records. - R&B, doo wop, soul, early rock & roll, and rockabilly preferred. Call between 8AM and 8PM 909-938-4623. (3)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items For Sale

Perfect Beige LaZBoy - Reclining loveseat with console and cupholders. 18 months old. Paid $1,200, asking $600 OBO. You transport. 404-513-8897. (9)

For Sale Total Gym XLS - Excellent condition. Asking $600. Also GoPlus Treadmill 21x52. Asking $200. Call 908-591-4384. (8)

Custom Crafted Stained Glass Shower Doors - Fits 60"L bathtub slides on steel frame. Asking $375 OBO. Call 732-9293475 Lv. Msg. (8)

Help Wanted

Animal Lovers - Volunteers needed to help feed homeless cats 1 or 2 days weekly. Call 732-3672932, leave message. (8)

Male Health Aide - Needed occassionally for senior male assisting with daily routine. $25 hourly. Call 732-319-6358. (10)

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)

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

Hair Salon - Part time salon assistant, part time nail technician. No nights or weekends. Must have license and experience. Please call 862-324-5914. (7)

Home Organizer Wanted - Empty packing boxes, organize closets etc. Must be personable, competent. $20 per hour. Time is flexible. References required. Victoria 508-680-6088. (10)

Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus. Filing/Answering Phones/Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

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)

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

Services

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (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)

ESTATE CLEANOUTS -

Properties, Houses, Attics, Garages, Sheds, Storage Units, ect. Handyman Disposal provided 901a Dumpster Service LLC. Licensed, Insured, call or text Jim 609-335-0330. (27)

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)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums from a NJ State Certified Teacher of instrumental music, in your home! Call 732-350-4427 for more information. (11)

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)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267-475-7962. (10)

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)

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)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

Services Services Services

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

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)

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)

A+CLEANING SERVICE - Homes, Offices, Air BNB, Shopping, Thorough, Reliable, References, Senior Villages, Free Estimates. Call Barbara 732-948-4730. (8)

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)

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)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale

• Items For Sale

• Items Wanted

• Help Wanted

• Services

• For Rent

• Real Estate

• Other

2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows:

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 = $

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

Total = $

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

5. MAIL TO : PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388. Or visit jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (Ads will run the Saturday of that week)

If you have any questions, please call Ali at 732-657-7344 ext. 203.

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

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Sports Sta Needed For Ocean County Parks

OCEAN COUNTY – Are you looking for a fun summer Job? Do you like being outside and being active? The Ocean County Parks & Recreation Department has the perfect

job for you! We are looking for friendly, motivated, sports-minded individuals to help instruct our sports programs to both children and adults throughout our Ocean

County Parks System. This is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys working with the public and might be looking for some experience teaching or coaching.

Competitive salary, starting at $17.50 an hour. If you are interested or have any questions, contact Victoria at 732-506-9090 ext. 5951 or email vwagner@co.ocean.nj.us.

F UN & G AMES S UDOKU

Jumble:

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

2 Italian port on the Adriatic

3 Garments with hooks

4 Part of a swearing-in ceremony

5 Community with barn raisings

6 Suitable for hosta

7 Turn to stone

8 Four Corners state 9 Javier’s “Being the Ricardos” role

10 Flat panel TV type

11 Ride (on)

12 Card worth four points in evaluating a bridge hand 13 “Bingo!”

33 Be in debt

34 Zoom alternative

38 Tit for __

39 __ shed

41 “Super heroes must eat oats” for the Great Lakes, e.g. 42 __ favor

45 “Let me repeat ... “

48 Bronze, iron, et al.

49 Fire pit residue

50 Chaps

53 Super Bowl LV city

55 The “A” in many degrees

56 Fatty tuna, at a sushi bar

57 Personnel list

58 Spine component

59 “Twilight” vampire Cullen 60 Wetlands plant

61 Sack

62 “It’s the end of an __”

63 Label

SOLUTIONS

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ZESTY HOUSE REJECT NIBBLE – “CHUTE” THE BREEZE

(c)2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

OHI To Host 20th Anniversary Emerald Gala Fundraiser

HOWELL – Ocean Health Initiatives, Inc.

(OHI) is set to host its annual Winter Fundraiser in celebration of its 20th year providing the highest quality healthcare to its patients, regardless of their background or economic status.

OHI is a federally qualified health center with locations in Ocean and Monmouth counties that provides primary care services to all people who come through our doors, but especially those who cannot afford to seek healthcare elsewhere. In support of our cause and in celebration of twenty years of operation, they will host their annual Winter Fundraiser and Casino Night on February 10 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club, 20 Shore Oaks Drive, Farmingdale.

For the past two decades, OHI has been a staple in our community and has been in constant pursuit of its mission to cultivate happier and healthier lives for all. But their work is never done and OHI seeks to continue providing primary and preventative medicine for many years and generations to come. For us to do this, we need your help. Therefore, we have organized a variety of opportunities in culmination of this year’s glamorous Winter

Fundraiser to contribute. These include the purchase of sponsorships and the donation of items that will be available for auction on this special evening. With your support, OHI can acquire better medical equipment, improve its community outreach and educational materials, increase its vaccination capacity, and heighten health awareness in our community.

The theme for this year’s fundraiser is The Emerald Gala and will include a delicious dinner, plenty of dancing, a silent auction, casino games, and a 50/50 raffle. The cost per ticket is $250. Sponsorships, donations, and 50/50 tickets are all available for purchase and are 100% tax deductible, excluding the cost of dinner.

They are so excited to celebrate such an impressive milestone with you and hope to see you in green on February 10. For further information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities, contact Nicole Jones at njones@ohinj.org.

Alternatively, you can visit their fundraiser website at ohinj.org/annual-fundraiser

The deadline for sponsorships and ad journals is February 3. Send all ad files to njones@ ohinj.org.

Shakespeare’s Comedy

h Night” Coming To CDC eatre

CRANFORD – “Better a witty fool, than a foolish wit.” “If music be the food of love, play on” and “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon ‘em.” are just a few of the familiar lines from William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.

A talented cast is preparing to present one of the Bard’s finest comedies at CDC Theatre in Cranford for seven shows running from February 10th to the 25th and is being directed by Susan Speidel. Ms., Speidel currently serves on the faculty of the Kean University Theatre Conservatory and is a lecturer for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University. Holding a range of academic degrees, she has studied acting and directing at HB Studios in New York City and at the Globe Theater in London. She served for 20 years as Director of Education for the Tony-Award winning Paper Mill Playhouse and has directed more than 50 plays and musicals. “A woman, disguised as a man, falls in love with her boss, only to be pursued by the woman her boss is determined to marry. Confused?” asked Ms. Speidel recently, “You’re not alone, but Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s

witty look at gender confusion, invites us to put convention aside, stretch the boundaries of “acceptable” attraction, and that, in the end, love is love is love is love. The play is filled with relatable characters contending with mistaken identities, unrelenting desire, hilarious pranks, and unrequited love – not to mention cross-dressing, duels, and deception – all offered up with a generous dash of merriment!”

Twelfth Night combines love, confusion, mistaken identities and joyful discovery all while telling a story of fickle fortune, mourning, love and reunion. Set in the free-wheeling, mirror-ball world of the 1970s, the celebratory nature of Shakespeare’s play is heightened with a series of Top-Ten hits that enhance the production and move the action forward with a disco beat. Shipwrecked twins, gender-bending romance and a bumper crop of fools, from the wise to the ridiculous, guarantee a full-blown evening’s entertainment.

CDC Theatre is celebrating its 104th season in Cranford, NJ at 78 Winans Ave. For best ticket selection and prices, visit cdctheatre. org for additional information.

AAUW Northern Ocean County Meeting

OCEAN COUNTY – American Association of University Women (AAUW Northern Ocean County Branch) is having a Zoom meeting on February 13. After a short business meeting from 6 to 7 p.m., at 7 p.m. the Summit College Club Branch will present

our speaker, Edwina Sessons, on What Inclusion Really Means. Ms. Sessons is the AAUW NJ Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). For the Zoom Link, contact Program Director Beth Maher at bethmahe@gmail.com.

“Twel

You’ve heard the expression “wow, it must have been a full moon tonight.” Recently, Ocean County resident Lauren Miller captured a breathtaking full moon in all of its glory. Note the artsy tree branches in the shot. Want to see your photos in our papers? Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Ocean Ride Customers Are Target Of New Scam

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN

COUNTY

– County officials are warning residents who use Ocean Ride that there are scammers calling them to get personal information.

“We want our residents, especially our seniors, to be aware of scam calls that are claiming to be Ocean Ride employees looking for account information,” said Ocean County Commissioner Gary Quinn, who serves as liaison to the program. “It is important for everyone to remember to never give out personal information at the request of the caller.”

Ocean Ride staff will never call about payment of an overdue account, officials said. Additionally, you should never give out credit

card numbers, bank account info or Social Security numbers to anyone over the phone. If someone is calling you asking for this information, they are most likely taking you for a ride – and not in a good way.

“Unfortunately scammers have developed sophisticated systems that look as if a call is coming from Ocean County when it is not,” said Commissioner Director Joseph H. Vicari. “If the call does not sound legitimate, trust your instincts and reach out to Ocean Ride directly to verify.”

If you have questions about your billing, you can call Ocean Ride directly at 732-736-8989, ext. 1. For more information, visit co.ocean. nj.us/oc/transportation.

Social Security’s Top 5 Data Privacy Resources

NEW JERSEY – It is important that you stay safe online. When we collect your personal information, we are committed to protecting your privacy. Please review these data privacy resources:

• A great online resource is ssa.gov/myaccount. You can visit this page to open a secure my Social Security account, keep track of your earnings record, and identify any suspicious activity.

A great online resource is ssa.gov/Our Privacy Program page at ssa.gov/privacy is a central resource to learn about our Privacy Compliance Program, submit a Privacy Act request, and review our privacy policies and reports.

A great online resource is ssa.gov/ In our blog post, 10 Ways to Protect Your Personal Information, we cover steps you and your loved ones can take to protect personal data.

You can check out this blog at blog.ssa. gov/10-ways-to-protect-your-personal-information.

A great online resource is ssa.gov/Our fact sheet, How You Can Help Us Protect Your Social Security Number and Keep Your Information Safe, provides details to safeguard your private information. You can access this fact sheet at ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10220.pdf.

A great online resource is ssa.gov/Our Guard Your Card infographic at ssa.gov/ssnumber/ assets/EN-05-10553.pdf helps you and your loved ones understand when you need to show your physical Social Security card – and when you do not.

We encourage you to help protect your vital information. Please share these resources with your loved ones.

George S. Hassler, Owner & Director, NJ Lic. No. 3193 Brian T. Hassler, Manager, NJ Lic. No. 4054

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Ocean County Airport Project Lands On Schedule

By Bob Vosseller OCEAN COUNTY – An apron

rehabilitation project at the airport in Berkeley Township is complete and will provide a smoother and safer area for airplanes to prepare for take-off, and to store following landing.

Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari said, “the last apron repair was done more than 15 years ago and over time we began to see significant surface cracking.” Vicari serves as liaison to the airport.

“Due to the aging of the surface, it was important for us to make these improvements to the apron to improve safety for the pilots and to assure the area was well maintained for the planes,” Vicari added.

The $3,514,399 project that was fi nished after six months in December 2022 consisted of approximately 95,000 square yards of bituminous pavement, and included full depth crack repairs, paving, drainage repairs and pavement markings.

Phases one, two and four funded 100 percent by the Federal Aviation Administration. Phase three required contribution of $16,667 by Ocean County.

Vicari said, “the apron area is adjacent to our t-hangars and terminal building at the airport and it needs to be well maintained. Corporate jets and personal aircraft use this area frequently and with a lot of use comes wear and tear. With the various weights of the planes, there can be safety issues created when taxiing over cracks.”

Cocaine Dealer Pleads Guilty

By Chris Lundy OCEAN COUNTY – A Manalapan

man caught in a four-month investigation pleaded guilty to dealing cocaine, police said.

At his March 24 sentencing, Mark Kelber, 45, is facing a ten-year term.

His arrest came as part of “Operation Checkmate,” in which police from a number of agencies tracked down suspects in three networks that brought more than three kilograms of cocaine every week into Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties, police said. Kelber was one of 24 people arrested.

Police made a court-authorized search of his home on October 26, 2021, where they seized approximately 265 grams of cocaine and $24,325.

“We take great pride in our airport and invest in making certain everything is up to date. The apron rehabilitation project was broken into four phases including one for design and three for construction. All construction phases were awarded to contractor CJ Hesse,” Vicari added.

About $42 million has been invested in various improvement projects since 1991 at the Ocean County Airport with about $32 million coming from FAA grants and New Jersey Department of Transportation funding.

“The airport is relied upon during emergencies and also helps with the County’s economic development. By partnering with the state and federal government we have secured a good portion of the funds needed to keep the airport safe and kept in good condition,” Vicari said.

–Photo Provided By Ocean County Director of the Ocean County Planning Department Anthony Agliata, at left, reviews with the Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari, the completed apron rehabilitation project at the Ocean County Airport.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

JCP&L Inspectors In Helicopters To Hover Over Homes

The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759

Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net

Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

Photo

–

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY – Helicopters will be seen overhead for the next few weeks as power company staff check out power lines.

Jersey Central Power & Light said that for about six weeks, Chesapeake Bay Helicopters will be checking out 500kv and 230kv lines.

“A comprehensive visual inspection is a

slow,

inspection

inspector

board the helicopter gets a thorough look from top to bottom of each structure, associated hardware, and conductors of the transmission line(s). The helicopter will be moving very slowly along each of the transmission lines and will often be seen hovering while carrying out these inspections,” they said.

Ms. New Jersey Senior America Pageant 2023

ATLANTIC CITY – Ladies who are 60 and over, this is your chance to show that you are talented, well-informed, and willing to be of service to your community. Ms. New Jersey Senior America, Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization, was established to send this message of the value of all senior Americans to the whole community. Our mission is to produce pageants to showcase talented, productive and active senior women, and to provide services to the entire community. In addition, we take pride in supporting children in the performing arts and those with special needs.

The Ms. New Jersey Senior America Pageant 2023 is seeking senior ladies to participate in the annual event, which will be held at Harrah’s Resort Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, on June 1 at 1 p.m. in the Concert Venue Theater. There are four

Judging Categories: Philosophy of Life, Evening Gown, Talent Presentation, and Private Judges’ Interview. Contestants must also be US citizens. The winner will receive cash prizes, a bouquet of roses, and an all-expenses paid trip to participate in the National Pageant for the title of Ms. Senior America 2023.

Every participant in the Ms. New Jersey Senior America Pageant 2023 becomes a member of the New Jersey Cameo Club, a subsidiary of the Pageant. The Club travels throughout the Garden State along with their reigning Queen, and performs in various venues. They share their vitality and love of life with all they meet, and ignite others to a greater desire for life.

If interested, contact Mrs. Terry Meade, Director of Pageants, for an application packet at 908-216-8534; or email her: tbm5201@aol.com.

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

OCEAN COUNTY – Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.

courtesy JCP&L

structure-by-structure, span-by-span

where the

on

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Ful ll Appoints Janelle Garcia New Vice President Of Community Impact

NEPTUNE – Fulfill, a leader in alleviating hunger and building food security in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, has named Janelle Garcia as its new Vice President of Community Impact.

In her new role, Garcia will take the lead on continuing to build a strong pantry network and a collective impact approach via strategic direction of the teams that directly serve Fulfill’s neighbors and network: culinary, garden education, network engagement and resource connections.

Joining Fulfill from the University of Florida where she served as the Associate Director of student health promotion services, Garcia has worked extensively in the community health sector at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital – St. Petersburg, FL (JHACH) providing leadership in health program planning, evaluation, data analytics and grant writing.

Garcia was also responsible for opening three high school-based food pantries in Pinellas County, FL and successfully establishing emergency food assistance for JHACH patients while co-creating a food prescription program.

Garcia holds a BS in Biomedical Science from the University of South Florida, a MS in Applied Physiology & Kinesiology – Human Performance from the University of Florida and a PhD in Health and Human Performance – Health Education and Behavior from the University of Florida.

– Photo courtesy Fulfill

“I am thrilled about being a part of the Fulfi ll team,” said Garcia. “I look forward to putting my nonprofit health and wellness programming experience to work for the communities Fulfi ll serves and utilizing the work I’ve done in food security implementation to make a lasting impact.”

Fulfi ll President and CEO Triada Stampas is looking forward to what Garcia will bring to the table. “We understand there is more to the picture than just food distribution and work tirelessly to provide other crucial community services including culinary training, SNAP enrollment assistance, job search and career planning resources and assistance with healthcare enrollment. In Janelle, we have found a community impact expert with the leadership and program development experience to continue to positively infl uence the communities we serve.”

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC: Treating Everything Below The Knee

Dr. Scott Amoss, DPM, CWS is a lot more than a “foot doctor,” as people often mistake podiatrists for. In reality, “we provide comprehensive lower extremity care,” he said. So yes, if your foot hurts, Dr. Amoss will be happy to help. However, that barely scratches the surface of all the conditions he sees and the treatments he provides.

Dr. Amoss (pronounced like “famous Amoss”) grew up in nearby Ocean Township and has been connected to the Jersey Shore community and greater New Jersey area his entire life. Originally, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Rutgers and spent a few years in the chemical industry. However, that feeling of wanting to make a difference in people’s lives that drives all physicians caught hold of Dr. Amoss. He liked podiatry in particular because of its ability to help people really quickly. “You can immediately have a positive impact on someone’s life. They come in pain, and can leave virtually pain free.” Scott Amoss became Doctor Scott Amoss when he graduated fourth in his class with numerous honors from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in 2000. He then completed a two year residency focusing on orthopedic, vascular, plastic, and reconstructive surgery, in

addition to training in internal and emergency medicine, dermatology, and radiology.

After that, Dr. Amoss knew it was time to go out on his own, so he opened Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists in Whiting.

17 years later, the practice is going strong and recently opened a new location in Toms River to be closer to Community Medical Center, where he’s a surgeon on staff. Critically, this new foothold also allows him, as a specialist in diabetic foot care, to help the growing diabetic community in the area.

While expanding served a logistically necessary purpose, Advanced Foot & Ankle has never lost its personal touch. You’ll never just be passed off to whichever doctor is on the clock that day, because Dr. Amoss is proud to be a solo practitioner. “The patients see me and only me,” he said.

“It’s good continuity of care.”

His tight-knit support staff of seven ensures that you get the streamlined care you deserve.

That’s crucial in the field of Podiatry because, after all, things can get serious when it comes to Diabetes and foot complications. Luckily, Dr. Amoss is an Amputation Prevention Specialist as well as a Certified Wound Specialist. Less serious conditions like hammertoes, ingrown nails, bunions, and athlete’s foot can be treated in the office,

often during your initial visit! “We’re very conservative,”

Dr. Amoss assures future patients.

“I’m surgically trained but I only like to perform surgery when all other conservative means have been exhausted.

It’s going to be painless.” He makes that possible by developing treatment plans for each specific patient.

Rest assured, Advanced Foot & Ankle is fully equipped to do so as soon as you come in. Both offices have digital X-rays so they can almost instantly see what’s going on and review it with the patient. They also have a diagnostic ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue conditions, as well as a laser for treatment of pain and neuropathy, a painful nerve condition caused by diabetes and other issues. They even offer MicroVas therapy, which gives much needed relief to patients with high levels of diabetic neuropathy, as well as vascular or PAD testing.

In addition to the most cutting edge podiatric technology, Advanced Foot & Ankle has professional-grade consumer products you need for immediate relief. They offer a great selection of diabetic shoes, for example, as well as custom-made orthotics which provide arch support and help correct the imbalance in patients’ feet. Advanced Foot & Ankle accepts most insurance plans. (Medicare covers one pair of diabetic shoes per year!)

By having strategically-located offices, an experienced and focused staff, and tons of treatment methods and equipment at his disposal, Dr. Amoss is able to easily achieve his goal of getting you fast comfort and relief. When it comes to diseases like melanoma, for example, speed is absolutely critical. The most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma has an especially poor prognosis on the foot because it often goes unnoticed for a long time. Dr. Amoss diagnosed several of these cases last year, which probably saved those patients’ lives.

But sometimes conditions aren’t as complicated as much as some of the larger podiatrist offices try to let on. Dr. Amoss remembers one recent patient who came in after being with one such practice. “These eight doctors had exhausted all treatment options for this individual in pain,” he said. After years of getting the runaround, they told him there was nothing they could do. The patient came limping into Advanced Foot & Ankle with what Dr. Amoss diagnosed in a matter of minutes as a simple corn on the tip of his toe. “We gave him

a customized foot pad which helped him tremendously, and by the next day he came in to thank us and tell us how much better he was doing,” Dr. Amoss said. “He couldn’t believe he waited and wasted several years with this other group of doctors.”

At Advanced Foot & Ankle, you’ll get fast and customized treatment from a doctor you can trust. Give them a call today at 732-350-0100 and their very accommodating staff will be able to make an appointment for you with Dr. Amoss right away. And as the “urgent care of the lower extremity,” emergency appointments are also available. Advanced Foot & Ankle is located at 400 Lacey Road in Whiting (in the Stop and Shop Shopping Center) and 601 Route 37 West, Suite 300 in Toms River (in front of the Ocean Eye Institute). Or check out their website AdvFootandAnkle.com for more information.

One of Advanced Foot & Ankle locations is 601 Route 37 West, Suite 300 in Toms River (in front of the Ocean Eye Institute)

One of Advanced Foot & Ankle locations is 601 Route 37 West, 400 Lacey Road in Whiting (in the Stop and Shop Shopping Center)

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of feb 4 - feb 10

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may receive a daily dose of confidence.. during the week ahead. You may be encouraged by people who appreciate your skills and uplift your spirits but do the math yourself so you are not too willing to take risks.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Your rebellious streak may manifest itself in the next week and you might be tempted to call in sick or to take a break from normal routines. It wouldn’t be constructive to ignore the rules or fail to learn from mistakes.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You might feel an urge to spend rashly as the week unfolds. A loved one or partner might demonstrate powerful leadership abilities but could fan the flames of buying the more expensive product or being otherwise extravagant.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Your enthusiasms may be stirred by something you are passionate about and you might feel a duty to act as a crusader to right wrongs and defend high moral ground. Be careful not to go to unnecessary extremes.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Go ahead, howl at the moon. You may feel more restless than usual to make changes in the week ahead, and you may want to resist any attempts to be controlled. Certain things may be coming to their culmination.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Starting with a clean slate might be appropriate in more than one area. Something significant might soon change -- be ready to adapt and adjust in the upcoming week. It might also be smart to reconsider how you spend your money.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The higher the stakes, the faster someone may pedal. But in their rush to get ahead, they may make promises they cannot keep or overestimate their abilities. Use your sound business judgement in the upcoming week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You could find yourself at a crossroads in the coming week. If someone does not react as expected or unforeseen obstacles are revealed, choose between sticking to a plan or adapting to a changing landscape.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your leadership skills could be in demand as the week goes by. A problem could be caused by having too many irons in the fire or spending too much time on hobbies. Count your blessings and listen to sound advice.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): People could change their minds or be overoptimistic in the beginning of the week. Be cautious about signing contracts or listening to gossip. Take the time to provide respect and support for hardworking friends or family.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Adapt or pass? You may need to decide soon. In the upcoming week, you may need to think about how to fit into a new group. You might develop new understandings of the results of changes or consequences of your actions.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t go overboard with your spending in the week ahead -- better to adhere to your budget. A loving partner may have some insightful financial advice that you should take to heart before you dive into any investment.

LETTUCE BELONGS IN MORE THAN JUST SALAD!

By America’s Test Kitchen

SIZZLING BEEF LETTUCE WRAPS

(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.

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