2023-02-18 - The Jackson Times

Love Was In The Air At Rova Farms

Public Wants Transparency In Private School Settlement

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Resi-

dents wanted details of a land swap plan and cost figures of a nearly 10-year-old lawsuit, saying that the town leaders have not been transparent.

Resident Ray Cattonar said that the public needs to be given more notice concerning items on the agenda during a recent Township Council meeting. He began a line of questioning that began with the power struggle over choosing members on an open space committee and led to the settlement.

Ladislav

By

Bob

Vosseller

“We usually get two-

or three-days’ notice and we get to see the agenda and we’ve seen a lot of juggling over the last few council meetings. It seems to me that the council wants more authority for transparency it is a great idea to have nine independent residents,” the resident said referencing an Open Space Land Committee that had been proposed but had been voted down. Cattonar added, “I’d like to be a volunteer on that committee being a long-time resident of the township. The mayor typically picks out the (School - See Page 13)

history in the community holds special meaning to many.

one September weekend leading to romance at Rova Farms.

serve as a

JACKSON – While the Rova Farms property

recreational spot in the township, its long

Theresa Vaughan of California recalled how her parents came together

“My parents met there on Labor Day weekend 1961. My father, Ladislav

Viska, who was from the Czech Republic when it was communist, was 31 at the time even though he had told me he was (Love - See Page 4)

Master Plan Will Address Town’s Zoning

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Town

ship officials have started the process for creating a master plan which is a thorough examination of every parcel of land.

Generally speaking, master plans will determine what kind of construction is allowed, what businesses are allowed, and what den-

-

sity of homes is acceptable.

The Township Council said at a recent meeting that an appropriation, not to exceed $250,000, was set aside for the preparation of a master plan revision.

Councilman Nino Borrelli remarked, “I’m glad funding is finally being appropriated for our town’s master plan.

It’s long overdue and I look forward to see what transpires with it with a careful focus on protecting as best as possible, Jackson’s beautiful environment and unique abundance of natural resources.”

“I think our fellow residents want nothing less. A town should be responsible for crafting its land use (regula -

tions), not outside entities,” the councilman added.

Resident Eleanor Hannum spoke to the council about the issue asking, “how long, approximately will it take?”

“Approximately, a year,” Council President Martin Flemming answered. “How will communi-

Planning Board Redoes Meeting To Set Things Right

cation to the public as these proceedings go on, happen? I believe the residents of this town deserve clear and transparent communication at all times,” she added. “As we are watching this town get carved up, and the last master plan from my understanding was done by one individual (Zoning - See Page 17)

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Some

times when a mistake happens, you get a redo to make a necessary correction and that is what happened recently when members of the Township Planning Board sat down to reset an unfortunate oversight.

While the Board had their reorganization

-

meeting early last month, they had to reappoint their professional staff and reaffirm several items to correct what their attorney, Robert Shea, described as something that hasn’t been compliant since 2021. Among those present at the session were (Meeting - See Page 18)

─Photos courtesy the Viska Family

Viska and Lorraine Stankiewicz started their romance at Rova Farms.

Love: Continued From Page 1

28,” she said.

Her father had escaped from Czechoslovakia when he was 18 with a friend. He had 10 sisters and brothers and managed to bring nine of them to the U.S. He ended up in New York where he worked as a mechanic. His daughter said, “a nice older couple took him in and taught him how to fix cars. He stayed with them and he had a little room in the back of their house. He learned English from them and from reading comic books.”

Vaughan added, “my mother Lorraine Stankiewicz, from Brooklyn, was 23. She and her friends Dolores and Irene wanted to do something for summer. They left Brooklyn and headed to Rova Farms.”

“They wanted to feel like they really did something. My mother, who was extremely shy, was in the water and my father asked her to swim across the lake together. At the end of the day, my father asked if he could drive them home,” Vaughan recalled.

“My mom recalls the swim very, very, well. Because she didn’t have her glasses on she really didn’t see him that well. She asked Dolores and Irene if he was cute. He had a very thick accent. My mom is Polish and she knew the language,” Vaughan said. Her mother’s aunts made her speak Polish when she was with them. Vaughan added the couple “didn’t realize how much traffic there would be on the Holland/Lincoln Tunnel. There was a lot of traffic so by the time he dropped them off it was very late.”

“He could not stay at her house so he asked where he could stay for the night and she told him the YMCA,” Vaughan added.

The area YMCA is exactly where Ladislav Viska was able to bunk for the evening. Vaughan said, “the next day, on the way to pick her up for a first date, he put his left arm out the window to make a left turn and his gold watch was taken right off his arm.”

It didn’t take long for the romance to blossom and on May 5, 1962 they married at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Brooklyn, NY. They were married for 56 years, their daughter said.

“After my parents married in 1962 their first apartment was in New Jersey. Then my dad wanted to move to California, so they packed up and moved there. My mom hated it and missed her sister, Mona and her friends and New York. They moved back to Connecticut, to be by her sister. Less than four months after moving to there, my dad packed them up again and moved them to California.

“We’ve gone to Czechoslovakia twice. Now I’d be corrected as it is the Czech Republic. My father passed away four years ago and my mom still cries a lot. They were a wonderful couple and great parents,” she said.

“My mother has good days and bad days,” Vaughan said. She noted that her mother is a bit sad these days as she misses her father.

“I was eating lunch at my mom’s and she started to cry as this was the first time in her life she’s ever lived alone,” she said.

“My twin brother Thomas made us all necklaces and a beautiful glass heart with his ashes in it,” she said. “She wears his ashes every day. She went from her dad’s home into moving in with my dad after they married.

“My father was a good man and took great care of her. He did everything for her. I’ve seen it in past pictures and growing up seeing them together. They loved each other very much. When I was younger, I used to think ‘oh how gross’ when he

came up behind her and slapped her butt. After growing up and still seeing him doing it was hilarious,” Vaughan said.

The couple was married for 56 years. “He did everything for her. She’s never pumped gas, washed her car and cooked well. He was a much better cook than my mom, a lot better,” Vaughan said. She added that her father may have died four years ago “but it feels like yesterday. I was with him holding his hand. We both cry a lot still. Their favorite thing to do was dance. They used to love to polka. We used to go to a lot of Polish picnics and almost every Friday night they went to the Phoenix Club.

“If my dad turned on Czech music they would polka around the house. When I was younger, I would always get embarrassed about that,” Vaughan added.

“When we were younger, we did get to see where they first met at Rova Farms as well as their first apartment. We were younger when they took us,

so at the time it didn’t mean as much. Later it did. I always asked her to tell me the story. Now I am so lucky I got to see it and now that my father passed away, I think of it all the time.”

Vaughan said she also has a brother Greg who is 58. She and her brother Thomas will be 55 in April. She has two adult children. Her son Lukas and her daughter Mikayla.

“I am truly lucky we moved them from Arizona back to California in a senior community called Seal Beach. Both my brothers moved in so she has them in walking distance.”

“My dad was so good with us when we were babies, my mom said all the time daddy did everything. Even after working long hours, he’d come home if we crying or couldn’t sleep, he would walk up and down the hall way singing Czech songs,” she added.

Vaughan noted that her parents “set an awesome example about marriage and working things through.”

─Photos courtesy the Viska Family

The Viska family draw their lineage back to a fateful day at Rova Farms.

Sadness And Anger At Vigil Held For Adriana Kuch

By Chris Lundy

again in our lifetime.”

BERKELEY

– A vigil in memory of Adriana Kuch was attended by dozens of people who want to make sure what happened to her never happens to anyone else.

Adriana, 14, committed suicide after being attacked in school and then bullied on social media because her attackers shared the video of it online.

Close friends of the family gathered on the stage at Veterans Park and brought flowers. Many of the people gathered released balloons with messages written to her. Students drew posters with statements like “Say her name,” “Rest in paradise,” and “Forever in our hearts; always on our mind.” But they also said things like “Stop the cover-ups at Central Regional” and “Rest easy Adriana. Justice will be served.”

There was more than sadness at this vigil, there was anger, calling for the officials in the district to be fired: Assistant Superintendent Doug Corbett, High School Principal Irene Marousis, and chief academic officer (who is the anti-bullying coordinator) Thomas Gallahue. Superintendent Triantafillos Parlapanides resigned the next day. A friend of the family started a cheer “What do we want? (Justice!) Who do we want it for? (Adriana!) When do we want it? (Now!)”

Several elected officials were also in attendance. Councilman James Byrnes addressed the crowd asking everyone to pray that “something like this never happens

He also thanked the students for coming forward and standing up for what they believed in. “If you never stepped up, it would’ve been swept under a rug.” Nearby schools held programs to talk about bullying, social media, and suicide.

The police department and the prosecutor’s office couldn’t comment on the case because it involves juveniles. Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer stopped by a rally held in front of the school the week after her death.

“I’m heartbroken for this family and the loss of this young girl,” Billhimer said in an email to this newspaper. “She had her whole life ahead of her. It’s a tragic situation for all involved. Anytime something like this happens, we all need to ask ourselves if we are doing enough to address the mental health needs of our youth. It’s important for kids to know that every situation in life is temporary. Nothing is worth taking your own life. Things will get better. Parents, teachers, administrators, friends and family – there is someone out there that cares about you. Please ask for help before you make a decision that you can’t come back from. Your life is too precious.”

Fundraiser For The Family

No one is ever prepared when tragedy hits. That’s certainly the case with the Kuch family.

“Adriana was a wonderful and brave

daughter who touched the lives of those around her. We are all devastated by her loss and were not prepared for the high cost of the expenses to come,” said her aunt, Sami Nye, who started the GoFundMe that can be found at gofund.me/028f8bac

“We want to give Adriana the memorial she deserves to honor her memory. I am currently asking for donations to help cover the cost of Adriana’s funeral as well as other legal expenses as we seek justice for her,” she said.

GoFundMe reached out to this newspaper to confirm that the fundraiser has been verified and that the money is going to the family.

As of this writing, the fundraiser has reached $30,000.

If You Need Help

Depression and feelings of hopelessness are more prevalent than anyone would like to admit. You are not alone. This is a time to reach out to each other and be there for one another. There are a number of resources available for help.

“Ocean’s Harbor House does work with many teens and families and provides shelter, support and services for youth in our region,” said Tricia Bradly, director of programs. “We don’t focus on suicide specifically but we do counsel many youth who have been involved in bullying incidents. Following up on this tragedy we will be reaching out to Central Regional High

School to make them aware of our shelter and counseling services so that in the future they have another resource available to their students.”

The State of New Jersey has created a new helpline. By dialing or texting 988, you can receive help for yourself or someone you love in a mental health crisis.

The National Suicide Prevention hotline is 1-800-273-TALK.

2nd Floor is for young people to discuss both everyday and serious problems. Calling (888) 222-2228 will put you in touch with professional staff and trained volunteers with non-judgmental responses. They are there to assist callers with any topic including: bullying, family problems or divorce, sex and sexuality, problems with friends / peer pressure, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, self harm, substance abuse, school stress, family abuse, dating violence, and living with a disability.

Contact of Ocean and Monmouth Counties has two phone numbers to call: 732240-6100 or 609-693-5834.

“We are here for anyone who is in trouble, lonely, depressed, and suicidal or someone who just needs a person to listen to them,” they said. They don’t offer advice or try to solve another person’s problems, but they offer a safe space for callers to talk about their problems. When appropriate, they can make referrals to other community services that are available to the caller.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

E ditorial

Pause Off Shore Wind Projects To Ensure Whale Safety

What is killing the whales? There have been at least nine whale deaths along the Jersey shore recently and local politicians and environmentalists feel their deaths are tied to offshore wind projects.

It does seem extremely odd that over the past several months that there have been repeated instances of dead whales washing up on New Jersey’s shoreline in close proximity of nearby offshore wind development. It is also happening at some New York beaches as well. Could it be the cause or just some strange coincidence?

There is a proposal by Congressman Chris Smith backed up by a dozen shore area mayors and some environmental groups to put a pause to such activities until we learn more.

Paul Kanitra, the mayor of Point Pleasant Beach, is among the mayors who have envi-

Remembering

Adriana Kuch

I join our entire community and all of New Jersey in sharing great sorrow for the tragic loss of Adriana Kuch.

In unthinkable moments of grief like these, it’s difficult to convey the words that bring comfort. But as these are the darkest of days for Adriana’s family and friends, it’s important to remember the light that she brought into their world.

From so many accounts of those closest to her, we have learned of her happy and strong personality and her love of all animals and nature, her helping children with special needs, and how she liked jogging with her brothers or walks in the woods. What was loved about her is already missed about her by those closest to her - and that must always be remembered

about her.

ronmental concerns about the mysterious string of whale deaths that has left officials and the public speechless.

On average, the Jersey Shore coast and in the tri-state area, there are one, two, or possibly three whale deaths a year but since the offshore wind energy development started conducting sonar testing in December, nine whale deaths occurred.

“That seems a lot more than a coincidence to us,” Kanitra said in an interview on “America’s Newsroom.”

The Biden administration and federal scientists are blaming the deaths on blunt trauma, related to boat strikes but whales use echo sonar location to navigate and it isn’t a stretch to have concerns about the sonar use messing with that ability which might actually be causing the boat strikes.

As Mayor Kanitra and some environmentalists have said, “it’s too much to be a coincidence.”

There is obviously a great deal of rightful anguish and emotion with Adriana’s passing, from her family, friends and within our community at large.

I commend the students who had peacefully protested against harassment, intimidation and bullying in our schools. Working with our police department, we will continue to have a strong presence in our schools, so students, parents and staff have a safe and secure learning environment.

I have spoken to our prosecutor, board members, administrators, teachers, parents and students about this tragic incident. Together, zero-tolerance policies will be implemented, and programs will be launched immediately to address these challenges.

It is critical that as leaders, as administrators, as teachers, as

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

The Jackson Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or

reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

Given the usual speed of government, this call for action by Congressman Smith seems right on the mark and prudent in order to act on the side of caution until a full scientific review can be made as to whether there is a connection to offshore wind projects and the deaths of the whales.

It is important get to the truth and as was said constantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to follow the science, so it seems like a smart idea to take a pause for the moment while a scientific based probe into their deaths takes place. Is the sonar work actually the cause? Let’s find out.

Doing so may ultimately save whales and other aspects of the environment. Smith’s request to suspend all work on such projects noted a time factor of “until such time that ecological safety can be assured.” I think we can afford to wait until this is done.

Likewise, it is gratifying to see our lawmakers

Letters To The Editor

parents and as a community as a whole, we unify and take this moment and try to learn and understand from it, so we can avoid future tragedies.

Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr. Berkeley

Teen’s Suicide Shows A Broken System

Been sitting on my feelings and emotions for several days as emotions have boiled over around me regarding the death of Adriana Kuch.

If you’ve heard the news reports about the 14-year-old who died by suicide after she was attacked at a New Jersey school, and who had been bullied relentlessly - that’s my town. That’s the high school my daughter graduated from.

I don’t need to add my opinions on how the school has handled this, because it was mishandled.

My opinion on why it was mishandled: Because the state’s Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying law is an utter disaster. It does not address what is happening to kids in any meaningful way. It gives school districts cover to say “We followed the law.” That is all it does.

New Jersey’s HIB law tries to quantify bullying as being directed at “a protected class” - weight, LGBTQIA, people of color - and further tries to quantify it based on how the victim reacts. Did a straight A student have their grades plummet? Did they stop coming to school? Did they have to get counseling?

The reality is kids get bullied across a whole spectrum. Did you get a bad haircut? Are you poor? Are you wearing handme-downs and not the expensive Air Jordans? Do you have freckles, a big nose, are you short, are you tall? Are you a boy who loves theater, loves to cook, loves fashion? Are you a girl who loves to hunt, wants to play football, loves activities we ascribe to boys?

I’ve shared my personal experience with being bullied in the past. I was the new kid in a very, very small town in Pennsylvania.

My black, curly hair, contrasted with my more pale Irish skin drew comments from adults who said “it must be a wig,” and kids picked up on it ... I was called “Wiggy” by classmates. School and grades came easily for me, and that only added to the hate and the bullying. My hair was pulled in class. I was pinched. I was kicked and punched and chased regularly on the playground ... and it continued until my dad was picking me up from school one day and the two boys who were the ringleaders tried to physically attack me. That was what forced the school district to address it.

My grades never slipped. I never stopped going to school (even though I wanted to, even when I was miserable).

Under New Jersey’s HIB law, what happened to me would have been brushed away as not a problem.

THAT is a problem. And it is happening in school districts

in Trenton address another issue that involves animals. There is legislation addressing animals who are suffering on factory farms. Mother pigs are artificially impregnated and confined to cages - known as gestation crates - that nearly immobilize them. Baby calves used in the veal industry are locked in similar cages, called veal crates. These crates are so small that the animals can’t even turn around. New Jersey could make history in a positive manner though the passage of legislation that would help these abused animals by passing Senate bill S-1298 and Assembly bill A-1970. These bills that deserve our support, would ban the extreme confinement of mother pigs and baby calves in the Garden State.

Bob Vosseller Assistant News Editor

across the state. Reports of bullying incidents are taken in isolation instead of being addressed, and the resulting accumulation of trauma is having disastrous results. You have the bullies attacking - because they believe they can, because they have gotten away with it all along.

For those who are the targets, despondency sets in, because you are completely powerless to stop the bullying - because the HIB law does nothing to force action by the schools to really take action to protect those who are being bullied. There were absolutely failures in what happened at Central and those need to be addressed, but the real issue is rooted in the very fabric of our society.

We have adults who bully others daily. How many videos have we seen of adults getting in people’s faces and screaming at them on the streets and in stores?

How many times do we see truly vile, hateful comments on social media mocking how someone looks, how they dress, what they eat, how they worship. We have an absolute unwillingness to learn about other people, and a knee-jerk nasty response to someone who doesn’t conform to our view of what should be.

The kids see our terrible example and they learn from us. They think it’s OK to just be hateful, to say whatever mean thing comes to mind, because they see adults do it - in the streets, in the stores, and on social media. And we as adults are completely unwilling to look in the mirror and see how the actions we take are teaching

our children to continue that culture of meanness.

We have people lying about what social emotional learning is - teaching children that people are different, teaching them to have empathy for others, and teaching them how to handle anger and frustration and disagreements CONSTRUCTIVELY - and trying to strip it from our schools, all while saying hateful, generalized comments about other people every day instead of taking people as individuals and learning about them.

This is what fuels the bullying culture every day.

We need to stop with the “just suck it up, we all went through bullying” mentality because we’ve NORMALIZED abusive behavior.

We have to stop normalizing being hateful and abusive to other people. Period.

We need school districts all across the country to have real policies that address these issues from the start and nip the bullying in the bud -rather than brushing it off as a child being oversensitive, or telling a child they are a tattletale. Parents have to stop with the “my kid would never” because EVERY child is capable of it.

We need to support the kids who stand up for others being bullied, rather than punishing those kids. (Yes, this happens.)

We need real conversations about our society.

No one is willing to have them.

Karen B. Bayville

New Jersey Must Act Quickly On Security Issues

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

The recent revelations of Chinese surveillance balloons have brought even more focus on national security issues. Whether you believe the one that traversed our country this month was a serious spying effort or a test of how America would respond, it should help people recognize that there are countries “playing the long game” to overtake the United States not only militarily, but economically and otherwise.

While China isn’t the only one, its efforts have been many, varied and particularly noticeable. Before the spy balloon floated without challenge over our most sensitive nuclear weapons facilities, China had been pouring money into American universities, infiltrating businesses and stealing intellectual property and technology, and deploying spyware like Tik Tok into our society. Chinese spies have been discovered in the employ of a U.S. Senator and in an intimate personal relationship with a member of the U.S. House Intelligence Committee.

More recently, reports have noted that Chinese-affiliated companies have been buying American real estate, particularly agricultural land, and land near military facilities. A congressman has also raised questions about Chinese-related ownership of at least two American schools with Army and Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs.

Although national security is the job of the federal government, it’s also the responsibility of state governments to do their part. I’ve been working on how New Jersey can protect itself, and by extension our country, from hostile foreign powers.

As a member of the Assembly Agriculture and Food Security Committee, I’m concerned about the fact that investing in foreign farmlands is part of China’s “One Belt One Road” plan, which calls for more direct control of its food supply chain. China’s foreign farmland ownership exponentially exploded between 2010 and 2020, from $81 million to $1.8 billion.

Therefore, I introduced a bill (A5120) to ban foreign governments and persons from owning farmland in our state.

Nine other states already restrict foreign ownership of agricultural land, and at least eight others are considering similar bans. Americans should own our valuable farmland to ensure our food security.

On the issue of land purchases, we also have to be wary of possible threats to critical infrastructure. I’m reviewing laws passed in other states designed to protect such facilities to see if they would work in New Jersey.

Almost two years ago, Texas enacted the Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act in response to a cyber attack on its Colonial Pipeline which transports natural gas, Russian attacks on the software used by the city of Austin, and coordinated strikes in 2019 against operations in several Texas cities. Under that law, “critical infrastructure” includes the power grid, computer networks, water treatment or chemical facilities and communication systems.

The law bans businesses and government officials from making infrastructure agreements with certain foreign countries, or allowing them to control, direct, or have remote access to any of the state’s main systems.

An example of inadvertent risk is the case of Sun Guangxin, a member of the Chinese Communist Party and a former officer in the Chinese military, who bought 130,000 acres in southwest Texas near an Air Force base to develop a wind farm. This gives his company access to the state’s power grid, which includes possibly compromising energy information as well as the potential to manipulate or attack the state’s energy supply.

Power distribution systems are, of course, particularly important since an interruption in power could destroy food supplies, affect emergency and medical services, and cause more harm to our small businesses. A former chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission said that because electrical substations house transformers that transfer power across regions, they may be the most vulnerable elements in the country’s electrical grid.

At least nine substations have been attacked

recently in North Carolina, Washington state and Oregon, cutting power to tens of thousands of people. We should act before such dangerous attacks come to our state.

I’m cosponsoring a bill (A2480) to require electric public utilities that control an electric distribution substation to have a plan to harden the substation against attacks. An electric company would have to submit a plan to the state Board of Public Utilities for approval. I’m also working on legislation to increase penalties for attacking

a substation.

One of the first things people ask when something goes wrong is why nobody had properly prepared for it, or tried to prevent it. This is especially true when the government that is funded by our tax dollars lets us down. The Legislature must act quickly to protect New Jersey residents from known threats.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 13 other towns in the State Assembly.

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Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption

JACKSON – Calling All Cats

is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Vision is looking for his forever home. He is a wonderful kitty who loves getting pets. He gets along great with the other cats. He is so handsome, and all

around a good boy.

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then find homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages. While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes

To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfinder.com

─Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

Summer Camp 2023

JACKSON – Program dates: July 3 to August 18, Monday through Friday (no camp July 4).

Camp location: Jackson Memorial High School.

Registration will not be accepted after camp begins. Children must be registered to be engaged in any activity. There is not a nurse on site during camp. Registration fee is for the entire 7-weeks.

Children will be grouped as follows:

• K & 1st graders

• 2nd & 3rd graders

• 4th & 5th graders

• 6th, 7th & 8th graders (grade currently enrolled in)

Camp Only: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• 1st child $500

• 2nd child $475

• 3rd child $450

With Morning Care: 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• 1st child $575

• 2nd child $550

• 3rd child $525

With After Care: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• 1st child $600

• 2nd child $575

• 3rd child $550

Full Day: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• 1st child $675

• 2nd child $650

• 3rd child $625

Trip information: trips are optional; trips are subject to availability; trip fees are not included in registration fee; no trip refunds - if child does not attend, disciplinary action, suspension or withdrawn from camp; trips are non-transferable; once camp begins trip sign ups can only be done at camp, if they are open. Payment must be made at the time of registration

Refund information: $10 fee per refund/deducted from refund; no refunds after program begins; if the township cancels a trip a full refund will be issued; refunds are done by voucher and take approximately 4 to 6 weeks; $5 credit card fee is non -refundable; refunds cannot go back onto your credit card; if you are notified that your child has to quarantine due to COVID, and was scheduled for a trip, you will be offered a credit or a refund for the trip(s) only

Register beginning march 1 at: register.communitypass.net/Jackson . There is a $5 fee per transaction when paying online with a credit card - $25 additional fee for non-residents. After June 20, a $50 late registration fee per family.

Chit, Chat & Chew: How To Stay Safe At Home

JACKSON – Join the Jackson Elks for coffee, light breakfast and discussion about:

What are the options for in-home care?

Fall prevention and home safety

Medical care at home

Proper nutrition for health

Open to all seniors! Event will take place on February 21 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Jackson Elks Lodge #2744, 1059E Veterans Highway, Jackson. RSVP by emailing vschubert@assistinghands.com or call 732-965-8209.

JACKSON TOWNSHIP RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Phone: 732-928-1260

Fax: 732-928-1950

Website: www.jacksontwp.net

95 West Veterans Highway

C ommunity n E w S

Jackson Recreation Summer Camp Job Fair

JACKSON – Make a difference in the life of a child while having the time of your life! Jackson Recreation is now hiring for their 2023 summer camp. The job fair will be on March 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jackson Senior Center, 45 Don Connor Boulevard.

Nights of weekends! They are seeking staff candidates for the following positions:

• Camp Counselors

• Camp Leaders

• Camp Head Leaders

• Bus Drivers

• Monitors

The minimum age to apply for any position is 14 years old. Applicants who are 18 and older and are hired will be required to complete a background check.

Learn all about the summer camp job opportunities available this year. Call 732928-1260 for more information.

Winter Hike In Jackson

JACKSON – Join the Jackson Pathfinders for a winter hike through the forest on February 18 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The moderate hike will be on a three-mile loop trail on preserved Ocean County land adjacent to Patriots Park in Jackson.

Chris Claus, Ocean County Park Chief Naturalist, will lead the hike and talk about the natural features and wildlife along the way. Participants should dress for the weather and wear sturdy

Children will be grouped as follows: K & 1st graders

2nd & 3rd graders

4th & 5th graders

6th, 7th & 8th graders (grade currently enrolled in)

Summer CAMP 2023

TRIP INFO

PROGRAM DATES:

JULY 3 - AUGUST 18

MONDAY-FRIDAY (NO CAMP 7/4)

CAMP LOCATION

JACKSON MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

shoes. Registration for the hike is free. To register, email jacksonpathfinders@ gmail.com and provide the name(s) of participants and a phone number.

The Jackson Pathfinders are volunteers who establish and maintain trails in Jackson for walking, hiking, bicycling, and other recreational uses. The group, which is sponsored by the Township of Jackson, meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Jackson Municipal building.

Registration will not be accepted after camp begins Children must be registered to be engaged in any activity. There IS NOT a nurse on site during camp.

Registration fee is for the entire 7 weeks

• Trips are optional

• Trips are subject to availability

• Trip fees are NOT included in registration fee

• No Trip Refunds - if child does not attend, disciplinary action, suspension or withdrawn from camp

• Trips are non-transferable

• Once Camp begins trip sign ups can ONLY be done at camp, if they are open. Payment must be made at the time of registration

REFUNDED INFO

• $10 fee per refund/deducted from refund

• No refunds after program begins

• If the Township cancels a trip, a full refund will be issued

• Refunds are done by voucher and take approximately 4-6 weeks

• $5 credit card fee is non-refundable

• Refunds CANNOT go back onto your credit card

• If you are notified that your child has to quarantine due to Covid, and was scheduled for a trip, you will be offered a credit or a refund for the trip(s) only

BEGINNING MARCH 1ST, REGISTER AT: http://register.communitypass.net/jackson

There is a $5 fee per transaction when paying online with a credit card - $25 additional fee for non-residents

After June 20, 2023 - $50 late registration fee per family

Volunteer Fire Company Seeking New Members

JACKSON – The Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 is looking for new members from the community. Call 732-378-9566 for more information, or email volunteer@jacksonstation55.com. Besides helping your community, here are a few benefits that are provided!

• Uniform Allowance

• Gym

• LOSAP (retirement plan)

• Annual Physical

• NJ State Firemen’s Association Benefits

• Use of the banquet Hall

• Dress uniform

• Station uniform

• Free Training

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and must have a valid State of New Jersey driver’s license. You will be required to pass a background check as well as a complete medical evaluation. Applicants must also:

Be willing to attend the Fire Academy within one year of joining at no cost to the member Be willing to attend meetings, drills, and work nights that take place every Wednesday night starting at 7 p.m. Residency Restrictions: Applicants must live within five miles of 113 N. New Prospect Road or 200 Kierych Memorial Drive.

2023 Spray Park Dates

JACKSON – Weekends only - May 27 through June 18. Open 7-days a week beginning June 19 until September 4. Closed for the season on September 5. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The park will be on sensor mode, you must

walk in front of the red fire hydrant for it to turn on. To review spray park rules and regulations visit: jacksontwpnj.net/DocumentCenter/ View/220/Spray-Park-Rules-and-Regulations-PDF.

3010 Ridgeway Road

• Manchester, NJ 08759

www.andersoncampbellmanchester.com

732.657.5700

p oli CE B lott E r

Alleged Drunk Driver Crashes Into Manchester Home

By Alyssa Riccardi MANCHESTER – A Toms River man

the result of being intoxicated, police said.

The incident occurred around 9:50 a.m. on February 8 in the area of

Route 571, near the border of Jackson Township.

According to police, 48-year-old Scott Skweres of Toms River was

driving east of on Route 571 in a 2006 Lincoln Town Car when he swerved off the roadway onto the eastbound shoulder and hit a mailbox and a utility pole. He then traveled across Route 571, left the roadway and struck the house.

An eyewitness told police that the car was seen swerving in and out of the lane of travel moments before the crash occurred.

Skweres sustained minor injuries. He refused further medical attention after being evaluated by EMTs from the Manchester Division of Emergency Services, police said.

After investigating the crash, authorities suspect Skweres of driving while intoxicated. He was subsequently arrested and transported to Manchester Police Headquarters where he was processed and released pending court.

Route 571 between Route 547 and Whitecomb Avenue in Jackson Township were closed in both directions while repairs were being made, police said.

Assisting at the scene were EMTs and firefighters from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Services, firefighters from the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department, and the Manchester Township Building Inspector.

The investigation into this crash is still ongoing. This crash is being investigated by Ptl. Michael O’Hara of the department’s Traffic Safety section and K-9 Officer Steven Wendruff. Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.

Wally Day Parade And Party

JACKSON – Jackson Police Department would like to invite everyone to attend “Wally Day” on February 18 at 11:30 a.m.

This parade is in honor of Wally Jamison on his 100th birthday with an after-party at the Jackson VFW to follow.

Parade will start from Jackson Justice Complex, down Bennetts Mills Road, ending at 54 Magnolia Drive. After: parade events begin at 12 p.m. Enjoy live music, food and beverages. For more information, contact mbasso@ jacksontwpnj.net.

Fun & Games

has been arrested after crashing into a mailbox, utility pole and house as

School

: Continued From Page 1

committee members and then obviously runs it through the council. That seems like the process that has been done but I’m curious because you said you wanted more authority from council. Maybe you can describe what you are talking about.”

Council President Martin Flemming explained, “we asked for a conversation about how members would be appointed and nobody ever got back to us. That is the only reason it is not on there.”

“Once we have the conversation and figure out how to man it, it will happen. It is just as important to me as it is to you,” Flemming added.

Cattonar said he came out to the night’s meeting for that specific subject. “It is a first reading and it is not even on the agenda. The land swap deal (of Leesville Drive) I was hoping would be on the agenda. It wasn’t as of this afternoon on the township website.”

Flemming said “the administration has been working on it since the fall and I saw it for the first time on Thursday. On Friday, I did my due diligence. I got opinions from three different attorneys to allay the concerns that I had. That was Friday afternoon. Monday was a holiday (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day). We gave it everything we could. I had two days.”

“I’d like to see a site plan, of where the property is specifically located,” the resident asked.

Flemming said as this was now public record, that information would be available.

Susan Cooper lives in that area and said, “we do appreciate this (the land swap) and we know there was a lot of time and effort made and it really brought the residents of that area together.”

“I just hope going forward, all the communication can be open with residents, developers with the council, the mayor because obviously we sit here and we see the tension and the non-communication and it’s hard for the residents. It’s a new year and I hope everyone can just be kind to each other, communicate and look at the great things that can happen,” she added.

Sheldon Hofstein inquired about the financial settlement concerning “Oris Bais Yaakov High School for Girls, why doesn’t the council give us what the final settlement was?”

The agreement concluded a long-standing legal challenge involving the building of a private religious school that will award a monetary settlement and grant approval for the construction of the school on Cross Street.

The council did not discuss the matter prior to its approval during a December Council meeting.

The all-girls school was rejected by the Jackson

Zoning Board for having multiple safety violations, setbacks, traffic, and other reasons.

Hofstein, who was a member of the Zoning Board at the time and he was among those members who voted to deny the application nearly a decade ago asked the council once again, what the settlement figure was.

“You people approved it (the settlement). Any numbers on that?” Hofstein asked. He had previously posed this question during the meeting where the settlement had been voted on but was told by

Township Attorney Gregory McGuckin that those numbers weren’t yet available for disclosure and he did not know them at the time.

“According to what we read in social media and the newspapers the figure was $1,350,000 does that sound right?”

“That sounds correct,” Flemming responded.

“That is the number that the township or your insurance company is giving to the school?” Hofstein clarified.

“Correct,” Flemming repeated.

Hofstein said that usually in these cases, “the attorneys for the plaintiffs are paid by the loser, which would be the town, how much are the attorneys getting.”

“That is inclusive of all the attorney fees,” McGuckin said noting that it was included in the settlement total.

“How much was our own attorney paid extra for his expert work?” Hofstein asked.

“The insurance company paid it so I don’t know the answer,” Flemming replied.

Sound News

4 Reasons To Choose

Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Better hearing should be as easy, accessible, and carefree as possible. So if you haven’t experienced rechargeable hearing devices, here are four reasons to give them a try:

CONVENIENCE No more frequent battery changes. Just store your devices in their charger overnight, and enjoy allday hearing power when you wake up.

STREAMING Using Bluetooth and streaming audio can drain hearing aid batteries more quickly, but a simple recharge puts you back in business.

SAFETY With the rechargeable battery sealed inside your device, there’s no worry about disposable hearing aid batteries getting into kids’ or pets’ hands, paws, or mouths.

SUSTAINABILITY Rechargeables may

go through a battery 1-2 yrs— give or take — compared to 100 or so disposable batteries with traditional devices. Much less waste!

RELIABILITY Traditional hearing aids that use disposable batteries (312, 10, 13, 675) are subject to moisture buildup which can destroy the hearing aid circuit. Rechargeable hearing aids have a “sealed” battery door thus moisture issues are dramatically reduced.

Call us for a closer look at rechargeable technology 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).

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Impressive Benefits Of Exotic Jackfruit

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Jackfruit is a tropical fruit commonly found in South America, India, Africa, and Asia. It is a superfood based on its incredible vitamin and mineral profile consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, riboflavin, magnesium, manganese, copper, calcium, and potassium as well as fiber, protein, and phytochemicals!

Jackfruit, like many other fruits, is a powerful antioxidant. It is used quite frequently due to its antimicrobial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic qualities.

The ‘meat’ of the fruit is eaten, but it can also be used topically. Extracts of jackfruit and jackfruit seeds are very high in vitamins C and A. Which reminds me, I have just created a brand new face cream using jackfruit extract. I call it a “sleep mask” and it’s essentially a night cream that heals your skin while you sleep. Gives new meaning to the term beauty sleep! More details are at my website.

Jackfruit extract -when applied to the skin- will improve skin tone and reduce wrinkle formation due to its antioxidant power and collagen formation. It’s been studied for crow’s feet wrinkle reduction. People have used jackfruit to improve scalp health too. When the fruit is applied directly to the scalp and allowed to soak in for about 30 minutes (then rinsed off) it seems to help scalp problems. I would recommend you do your applications prior to a shower because things get sticky!

People eat jackfruit because it is good and it’s sustainable. Some people say it tastes like something between pineapple and mango. When cooked as a vegan meat alternative, it takes on the flavor of the spices you use, just like tofu. Jackfruit contains antioxidants that support and boost immune system health and functioning. It also increases white blood cell production. The calcium and magnesium in Jackfruit are great for bone health and muscle cramps. Eating Jackfruit may help with aches and pains.

Skincare is my interest because I’ve used this extract in one of my formulas. It’s amazing to think you can transform your skin while you sleep but I believe you can. Jackfruit contains vitamin C and antioxidants, which are anti-aging. Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, which you already know helps firm the skin and keep it looking supple and elastic. Not only that but vitamins A and C also help to repair wounds and aid in sun damage and UVA/UVB rays. This means that inflammation in the skin is reduced, and wrinkles are less likely to form.

What is “Sleeping with Jack” sleep mask? This is my custom face cream formula and I’ve named it “Sleeping with Jack” because it contains jackfruit extract. You apply it at night before bedtime just like any other night cream. It smells fantastic and promotes nighttime repair and renewal to give you soft, wrinkle-free radiant skin. I have more information at suzycohen.com.

(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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around thE JErSEy ShorE

30 th NJ Polar Bear Plunge Set To Return To Seaside Heights

By Bob Vosseller

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – The borough ocean front will once again serve as the entry point for thousands of Polar Bear Plungers who will enter the chilly surf for a good cause, Special Olympics New Jersey.

The 30 th annual benefit event will return to Seaside Heights on February 25. It will also mark the early start of a number of “spring” activities on the boardwalk.

Between the thousands of plungers and tens of thousands of spectators, the boardwalk venues end up hosting a number of after plunge winter parties.

The annual Polar Bear Plunge is one of the largest of its kind in the state and nation. The event raises on average around $2 million for Special Olympics, in partnership with state Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and Law Enforcement Torch Run.

This year, organizers have set a goal of raising $2,150,000. Even before the event had been formally approved, teams had already begun to organize and more than $640,782 has been pledged.

All money raised benefit thousands of athletes across the state through programming and activities. The plunge will take place on the beach between Blaine and Sumner avenues, directly in front of the Spicy Cantina located at 500 Boardwalk.

Street closures in the area will be in effect until early afternoon and at 1 p.m., those who raised the plunge minimum will make their way into the ocean. Activities will run from 10:00 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For information about how to donate to the fundraiser, support a plunge team or to become a plunger, e-mail pbpinfo@sonj.org.

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

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

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

─File Photos By Bob Vosseller

Thousands of Polar Bear Plungers and tens of thousands of spectators will descend on the boardwalk and oceanfront beach of Seaside Heights on February 25 for the annual Polar Bear Plunge to benefit the Special Olympics of New Jersey.

Court Orders Sanctions: Lakewood Banquet Hall To Pay $12,000 In

Attorney

Fees

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

On January 30, 2023, the Superior Court of New Jersey entered an order mandating that the Defendant in a contentious case pay attorney fees to the Plaintiff in the amount of $12,000. The case itself involves the roughly 40,000 square foot Lake Terrace banquet hall in Lakewood, New Jersey, which to date, has operated allegedly without the requisite land use approvals. Specifically, the Complaint alleged the property was approved as a school with an accessory assembly hall in 2005 and received a Certificate of Occupancy for same in 2007. Plaintiff alleges that the school has since ceased operation, and morphed into one of the largest banquet halls in Lakewood despite failing to obtain any further land use approvals. The fee award comes as a result of R.C. Shea and Associate’s successful Motion to Enforce the Court’s prior Order of February 3, 2021. The Court, in its February 3, 2021 Order, imposed restrictions on the use of the Lake Terrace property. The restrictions included: limiting events to a maximum of 700 patrons, prohibiting outdoor events, and mandating that all parking for events be limited to Lake Terrace’s own parking lot.

Zoning:

Continued From Page 1

who was on the planning board at that time and there was absolutely no transparency at all over 10 years ago.”

She noted that under state guidelines there would be an advisory

Vincent J. DelRiccio, Esq.

As per the allegations, throughout the months of May and June of 2022, Lake Terrace held roughly eleven (11) events in violation of one or more provisions of the February 3, 2021 Order. The Plaintiff stated that during the largest of these events, held on June 9, 2020, chairs, speakers, and a wedding tent were erected on Plaintiff’s property by the organizers of a wedding taking place at Lake Terrace. Allegedly, when asked to vacate the premises, the wedding was moved into the street, completely blocking access to Plaintiff’s adjacent businesses.

R.C. Shea and Associates, on behalf of the Plaintiff, filed a Motion to Enforce the February 3, 2021 Order. The Court found that the Lake Terrace owner and operator had committed “repeated” and “bad faith” violations of the February 3, 2021 Court Order. The Lake Terrace Defendants were ordered to pay both $5,000 sanction to the Court, and $12,000 in attorney fees to Plaintiff’s counsel.

If you are facing disruptions to your business as a result of a neighbor’s potential misuse of their property, please give the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call for a consultation.

committee formed that would include residents of the town who are not in any “capacity of our government.” Flemming said the “Master Plan is driven by the Planning Board and they will start creating the committee and the people they want on it and that is where it will derive from. I am hoping the is public involved and there will be public forums.”

Ocean County Parks Announces New Trail App

OCEAN COUNTY – “Don’t hike alone...take your phone!” Introducing the Trail Tracker App to help you pinpoint your location on the trails of Ocean County. Follow the link to download: bit.ly/OceanCountyTrailTracker.

NOTE: This web app was created to

assist park visitors. It is currently in a beta test and may not completely, accurately depict information. To better improve this app and user experience, let Ocean County Parks & Recreation know your feedback here: OCParks@ co.ocean.nj.us.

Meeting: Continued From Page 1

Board Chairman Tzvi Herman, Vice Chair

Michele Campbell, Council liaison Council President Martin Flemming, Mayoral Designee Ken Bressi, Business Administrator

Terence Wall and members Shimshi Heller, alternate II, Joseph Sullivan and Jeff Riker.

“This is a jurisdictional issue. We found defects in the OPMA (Open Public Meetings Act) reorganization procedures and policies that we have to comply with to adopt a quasi-judicial authority from the state. What that means is that, if we move forward, without being OPMA compliant, we would lack any jurisdiction to hear any matters moving forward,” Shea said.

He further explained how the situation came about. “This was not the Board’s fault. This was a legal concern of an issue that was fully within the purview of the Board attorney and unfortunately, we are not complaint since 2021.”

Shea said the purpose of the meeting was to retroactively go back to the 2022 minutes to make “us compliant going forward. We are holding this reorg meeting as a special meeting. The only way to comply with this is to have this special meeting. The regular

meetings of 2023 were void because technically, the reorganization meeting never really happened due to the OPMA violation.”

Shea said this wasn’t just a discretionary act by the Board. “We are simply adopting the minutes as a Board and adopting the decisions and testimony that took place.”

The Board’s former attorney, Sean Gertner, was said to have missed a step in the required procedures. It was noted by members of the Board that Gertner is now a judge.

Shea responded to Board questions saying, “putting it gently, he overlooked this as a legal issue and unfortunately, all the meetings that took place prior to 2023 technically were not compliant with the OPMA. As to the resolutions that were passed, there is a 45-day period in which the general public and any objectors have a right to file a prerogative writ.”

“All the meetings that took place prior are technically protected under the 45-day rule,” Shea added. “We are going to readopt the minutes as the first method of protection against any prior violations.”

The Board moved to unanimously approve the minutes. Herman also proposed the adoption of minutes of the December 12, 2022 executive meeting and approval of minutes from the January 23, 2023 regular meeting which was also passed.

The Board added some additional meetings

to their calendar to do some catch up work and also moved to reconfirm the reorganization and appointment of professionals.

Shea told The Jackson Times after the meeting, “we have to publish the calendar of the dates of meetings and the public is put on notice to come. That was never done and that invalidates the meeting itself. That is what never happened going back three years.”

That however wasn’t the only error made. “The annual calendar has to be published and if it is not on the calendar it has to be a special meeting. For a special meeting to occur it has to be published in the newspapers 48 hours in advance,” he stated.

When asked if the abrupt cease of publication of the Tri-Town News which rebranded itself as The Jackson Sun weeks prior and was running legals in the publication had anything to do with the issue, Shea replied, “that is one of the reasons. That is one element of it and that element goes back to the prior year.”

“Everything is connected and when one thing goes wrong the dominos fall. The reorganization meeting whether it is regular or special, you have to vote on the calendar at the meeting. You can’t do it prior because of public policy behind it. You might have new members so they have to vote on it there,” Shea said.

“You have to put notice of that calendar

within seven days of the reorganization meeting itself. If you go back all the way to 2021, most of those (required) elements, weren’t hit. I forget if they did one thing right in 2022 but what happens is that even if you do one of those things wrong it invalidates the whole meeting,” the attorney added.

“If a public body doesn’t adopt the authority of quasi jurisdiction, because they are basically judges, if they don’t do that, they are basically an Elks Club and they hang out and hear stuff. If they don’t adopt the authority that the state is willing to give them any applications that are heard after that are voidable,” Shea said. With the Board now adopting the authority to hear the applications, the situation is now “retroactive. I went as far back as 2021 when I believe Sean (Gertner) came on. After a year or so it doesn’t really matter because you are now only dealing with the prior year,” Shea said. The attorney explained, “once the resolution is published and adopted, you have 45 days to challenge and the public is on notice as part of the 45-day rule which protects the applicants and the decisions.”

Shea said he has not spoken to Gertner about this matter. “He is a judge now so technically he can’t have anything to do with his prior legal matters. He has to be neutral at this point but it happened under his watch and no one is infallible.”

CLASSIFIEDS

Items For Sale Real Estate

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Personals

Male 70s - Partially homebound looking for woman for companionship. I am onest, of good character and trustworthy. 732-930-6183. (10)

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 (10)

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. (10)

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. (13)

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)

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

Kitchen/Dining Room Table - Oak, 60" x 40", 8 chairs and leaf. Like new $400. 201-755-8933. (9)

Pets

MISSING - Black and tabby female cat lost at 733 Old Burnt Tavern Road, Brick. Call 732-840-1434. (10)

Help Wanted

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)

Part Time Bus Driver - 55+ Community in Brick looking for a CDL licensed driver for 22 passenger bus. 2-3 weekly morning trips to local stores & restaurants. For full details call 732-458-3400. (10)

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)

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

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 &

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)

Services Services Services

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

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)

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

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

•

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.

Services

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

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

Assembly Man I’ll Put Anything Together - At your home plus minor handyman service. 40 year certified mechanic. Free estimates. Flexible schedule. 973-459-8831. (13)

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)

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:

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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.

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around thE JErSEy ShorE

County Allocating $25M Federal American Rescue Plan Funds

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY – A public hearing to explain how the county is going to use $25 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds will be held on February 7 at 11 a.m. in Room 119 of the Ocean County Administration Building, Hooper Avenue, Toms River.

The spending plan is expected to be approved during the next meeting of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, which takes place on February 15 at 4 p.m. in the same building.

The American Rescue Plan was passed during the previous session of Congress and it was designed to assist populations hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The county is implementing the Housing Insecurities and Homelessness Services project which will provide temporary housing, fiscal aid, and other services to those at risk of homelessness. Some of the aid could take the form of such things as temporary rental assistance, security deposits, rental application fees, or moving expenses.

Another change will be the Eviction, Foreclosure, and Homelessness Prevention Legal Services Program. This is geared to help seniors who are at risk of foreclosures stay in their homes.

The county’s Aging and Disability Resource Center program will be expanded, offering more help to disabled seniors and young adults.

A Benefits Navigator will be created so that residents can find what they need easier.

Other funds will be assigned to mental and behavioral health. A lot of people are suffering the loss of loved ones and there are increases in suicide and drug overdose incidents. Grief and trauma programs will be put into place.

“The County understands that addressing mental health issues calls for specialized skills,” according to the draft funding plan. “As such, the intelligent selection of professional partners offering behavioral health

United

care expertise, case management, and links to services is paramount.”

A program called On Point will aim to divert people experiencing mental illness from entering the criminal justice system.

“With so many people, including children and teenagers, now suffering with negative mental and behavioral health impacts, and others struggling to get back on their feet financially, a large percentage of the funds will go to updated initiatives and expansion of current services to help our residents,” said Ocean County Commissioner Gary Quinn, who serves as a liaison to the Ocean County Finance Department along with Commissioner John P. Kelly. “After a thorough review of how the funds can be used, it was determined these are areas along with assisting our municipalities, that needed our response.

“While Ocean County has many social services and human services programs available for our citizens, this will add an additional layer of help to those residents that need it,” said Commissioner Quinn. “Clearly, the pandemic highlighted many areas of concern that need to be addressed further.”

Other Plans

The plan also includes funds for the boroughs of Ship Bottom and Beach Haven for needed infrastructure upgrade projects and for the towns along the northern barrier island from Berkeley Township to Point Pleasant Beach to cover the local costs for a needed beach renourishment project.

“Ocean County will continue to carefully review the priorities affecting our residents,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari. “This proposed plan is the first step in allocating the federal funds we anticipate receiving.”

The draft plan is available for review on the Ocean County government website at co.ocean.nj.us

Way Of Monmouth

DEAL – United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties’ 2023 Annual Tee-Off Driving Change for Our Community will be on May 8 at Hollywood Golf Club 510 Roseld Avenue in Deal.

Check-in begins at 10:30 a.m. Please pre-register. Shotgun start is at 12:30

And

Ocean Counties’ 2023 Annual Tee-Off

p.m. Questions? Contact Bill Kelly at bkelly@uwmoc.org or 848-206-2036.

Thank you for your support and helping to advance our mission to bridge the gaps to education, financial stability and health for every person in our community.

God Bless America! The American Flag flies over the Barnegat Bay in Long Beach Island. This photo was taken by Jo Lucas. It’s an amazing shot. Whether you are a

pro or someone with a smartphone, we want your pix for our Photo of the Week! Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you could win a prize!

Ocean County Nail Salon Fined For Disability Discrimination

By Alyssa Riccardi

damages to the individual complainant.

POINT

PLEASANT

– A local nail salon has to pay $1,000 in damages after allegedly refusing nail services to wheelchair users, officials said.

According to state officials, a settlement was reached with USA Nails Inc. of Point Pleasant after a report alleged they were discriminating against persons with mobility impairments and those using a wheelchair.

The settlement states that USA Nails Inc. agreed to adopt and post in a conspicuous place a non-discrimination policy, to train current and future employees on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as to pay $1,000 in

“Disability discrimination violates the ADA and cannot be tolerated,” U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said. “This agreement ensures that customers will not be turned away from receiving nail services simply because they happen to have a disability.”

Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may file a complaint with the U.S Attorney’s Office at justice.gov/usao-nj/ civil-rights-enforcement/complaint Additional information about the ADA can be found at ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free information line at 800-514-0301 and 800-514-0383.

Sting’s “My Songs” Tour Returns To Hard Rock

ATLANTIC CITY – The Cherrytree Music Company and Live Nation have confirmed that Sting will perform a special My Songs concert at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City on September 3. Tickets are now on sale.

Sting’s My Songs concert is an exuberant and dynamic show featuring his most beloved songs, written throughout the 17-time Grammy Award winner’s illustrious career both with The Police and as a solo artist. Following a sold out six-night residency at the London Palladium, My Songs was hailed “a masterclass” by The Times; “Sting re -

mains an undeniably skilled performer with a gold-plated back catalogue.” A musical journey taking in hits like ‘Fields of Gold,’ ‘Shape of my Heart,’ ‘Roxanne’ and ‘Demolition Man,’ the concert was described as “a rare treat” by The Telegraph and saw Sting praised as “near peerless” by The Guardian with “sublime pop alchemy.” Fans can also expect to hear ‘Englishman In New York,’ ‘Every Breath You Take,’ ‘Message In A Bottle’ and many more. Tickets are available at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com , Ticketmaster.com and 800-745-3000.

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

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

23 Brief “If you ask me (and even if you didn’t)” 24 Current

40 Chest of drawers

41 Valiant

42 Sound like a pig

43 Press coverage

44 *Folds?

46 Must-haves

48 Shares again, on Twitter

49 Energy Star certifying org.

50 Tammy Duckworth’s title, briefly

51 “Oh, admit defeat already!,” and advice that was followed to form the answers to the starred clues

57 Shoyu __: noodle dish

60 Fallon’s predecessor

61 Tire swing holder

62 Peabody, e.g.

63 Shoots the breeze

64 Continent with 11 time zones

65 Insurance spokeslizard

66 Root word?

67 “To Kill a Mockingbird” star

Down

1 Pre-release software version

2 Asgard god

3 Leaf blower

4 Buffalo

5 Intro to physics?

6 Fringe benefit

7 Frozen drink

8 Nurture

9 “Schitt’s Creek” co-creator 10 “__ we done here?”

11 Lancelot or Mix-aLot 12 Vital 15 Really stinky 21 Unrealistically common affliction in soap

(c)2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

27 Baby birds?

28 Sagittarius symbol

29 Mum

30 Stockpiles

31 Beast of burden in many fables

32 Support for a proposal?

33 Hi-__ graphics

36 Tres __ cake: dairysoaked dessert

39 Sea plea, briefly 40 Took care of 42 Really hot

45 In a fitting way

47 Set up

50 Smidge

51 Weightlifting move

52 Reverse

53 “Eso Beso” singer

54 Sprinkler attachment

55 “Awesome, dude!”

56 Pipe problem

57 Tattered cloth

58 Blow away

59 Big name in laptops and lipstick

Crossword Puzzle S

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of feb 18 - feb 24

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You might feel a real yearning to be pampered and to look forward to enjoyable pastimes and social activities. Set aside time for some self-care. Later, you may be in the mood to cuddle up with someone who tickles your fancy.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You could feel you are living out a fantasy if a romantic partner or a loved one indicates that you are especially attractive. Never succumb to an urge to act on your worst instincts; nip these in the bud as the week unfolds.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Think on your feet. You might be quicker on the uptake than usual for the next few days. Since you can work rapidly and accurately, this may be a good time to take the lead on projects that need attention to detail.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : Once a clear picture is in your mind, you can enthusiastically work toward manifesting it in the real world. You’ll eventually get there if you stay with it, even if you take baby steps. Start the week off with an energetic attitude.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Turn ordinary concepts into something more valuable. This is a week when you may find a new interest or study that can become your personal philosopher’s stone. Don’t let a past problem make you reluctant to try something new.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It is a good idea to read the fine print and analyze things before you make a financial commitment. You may be too interested in getting a good deal and ignore basic problems. Quick thinking is a great asset on any job.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Just wishing upon a star is seldom enough. You may be wrapped up in romantic fantasies now, but later in the week, you might find the real thing. Peer pressure may persuade you to alter or adjust your business habits.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Romantic feelings may arise, but you must remain realistic. Sometimes people appear more talented and honest than they are. You could be hesitant about giving a family member another chance at making amends.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) : Weigh your choices. Keep on track by listening to your heart and understanding the difference between right and wrong. Your week will go better if you concentrate on fulfilling your promises and commitments.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may look for ways to whittle down the demands on your wallet in the upcoming week. Pay off some debts and cash in any perks from your credit cards. A loved one might inspire you to be more creative.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Life goes on. Ponder recent events and put them into proper perspective so you can move forward. Follow the rules even if other people want you to bend them. Investing in the best quality can give longer-lasting satisfaction.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Focus on learning to love yourself unconditionally while holding yourself accountable. Today could mark the start of several weeks when you can display creativity and actively make your ideals a reality.

By America’s Test Kitchen

Making these candied jalapeños is as easy as heating the sliced fresh chiles in a seasoned simple syrup and then letting them cool. Yet for such a seemingly basic recipe with so few ingredients and steps, the end product is extraordinarily versatile. The key to their versatility (and to the success of this recipe) proved to be in the balance of flavors and textures.

Ample sweetness — from 3/4 cup of sugar — helped keep the potent heat of the chiles in check. Fruity, tart cider vinegar complemented the vegetal flavor of the fresh chiles and balanced the sugar’s sweetness, and a generous amount of salt accentuated all the flavors. Whole coriander seeds contributed vibrant pops of complexity and a welcome textural contrast. Finally, using both red and green jalapeños not only provided a pretty contrast between emerald green and ruby red but also ensured a balanced, assertive level of heat, since the ripened red variety tends to be spicier than the green.

CANDIED JALAPEÑOS

Serves 12; makes about 1 cup

4 green jalapeño chiles, stemmed and sliced ¼ inch thick (about 1 cup)

4 red jalapeño chiles, stemmed and sliced ¼ inch thick (about 1 cup)

3/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1/4 cup water

2 teaspoons table salt

1 teaspoon coriander seeds

1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)

1. Combine all ingredients (including turmeric, if using) in a small saucepan and bring to boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until jalapeños just soften, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely, about 1 hour.

2. Using a fork or tongs, transfer jalapeños to an 8-ounce jar. Pour syrup over jalapeños to fill the jar, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Affix jar lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. (Candied jalapeños can be refrigerated for up to one month.)

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

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.

YOU’LL WANT THESE JEWELS OF SWEET HEAT ON EVERYTHING YOU EAT