2023-02-18 - The Toms River Times

TOMS RIVER The

Local Artists, Musicians And Filmmakers Showcased

Local Mayors Demand More From Ciba Settlement

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER

– The

Ocean County Mayors’ Association said that a settlement between the state and the owners of the Ciba Geigy property doesn’t go far enough to help with the health, economic, or environmental impacts of the site.

Toms River officials said that the current owner, BASF, escaped from paying any monetary penalties because the State Department of Environmental Protection surrendered any claims for statutory

The musical group Sleeping in the Sun provided their unique soundtrack-style

latest TV Party 2020 event held

American Legion Post 351

16

By Bob Vosseller SEASIDE

– Bringing art, music, fun and food to the area was the aim of the fourth TV Party 2020 event that was recently

THIS

held at the borough’s American Legion Post 351.

The event was sponsored by Roaming Dingo Productions in cooperation with American

MONTH

Legion Post 351 and Navy Lakehurst Historical Society.

The collaborative effort is an ongoing local Ocean County celebration of art, music and

IN HISTORY:

film, showcasing local talent, subjects and people. The latest event highlighted music by two musical groups, Johnny Nameless and (Artists - See Page 4)

Presidential Elections Of The 20 th Century

By J. Mark Mutter

In last month’s column of This Month In History, it was reported that our town’s public records were completely re-organized, beginning in 2006, into a singular computerized database where documents spanning several centuries are now warehoused in a

state of the art Records Center.

They’re old records kept not just for the sake of keeping old records. Public records are the people’s records and they are invaluable for everyday needs - building, environmental, and land use records, and more.

As luck would have it,

as part of our organization of 10,000-plus containers of documents, we stumbled upon a lot of town history, too. With Presidents’ Day coming up, here’s part two of the story of how old lost and forgotten election records and presidential history came together in Toms River.

An Old Dirty Basement

During the course of years of work in finding, indexing, and organizing literally hundreds of thousands of separate files in old cardboard boxes that seemed to be - and were - everywhere, we were led to the basement of

Town Hall. The building is an old residence in our downtown village built in 1902 and was purchased by the then Township Committee in 1949 to house the municipal government as our town was rapidly growing in the middle of the last century.

(History - See Page 6)

natural resource damages.

The mayors are asking for a number of concessions, including the creation of a depository at the Ocean County library system (hard copy and digital) for documents about the condition of the site, with all permits relating to discharges, reports of work completed on landfills, and monitoring info regarding the Toms River and nearby wetlands.

They also want BASF to publish monitoring

(Ciba - See Page 6)

Sadness And Anger At Vigil Held For Adriana Kuch

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY – A vigil in memory of Adriana

Kuch was attended by dozens of people who want to make sure what

─Photo courtesy Kuch family Adriana Kuch passed away February 3. happened to her never happens to anyone else. Adriana, 14, committed suicide after being attacked in school and (Adriana - See Page 5)

-Photo By Bob Vosseller

sound during the

at the

in Seaside Heights.

Artists:

Continued From Page 1

Sleeping in the Sun.

There were intermittent screenings of local films in progress and shorts, including segments from Roaming Dingo Productions local series Jersey Shore Veteran Stories and Titans of Toms River.

The event also served as a fundraiser for Jersey Shore Veteran Stories, a series that seeks to preserve local veteran legacies along with the rich history of the Jersey Shore.

Jennifer Suwak, who served as event coordinator and head of Roaming Dingo Productions, noted that TV Party 2020 provides “a great opportunity to socialize with local musicians, artists and filmmakers and to see the creative side of Ocean County.”

Also present was Stephen Abruzzese who was photographing and recording the performances of the evening and handling the screening presentations during breaks.

“The Jersey Shore Veteran Stories began with Frank Parese, a WWII veteran we met at our first TV Party 2020 event on December 29, 2019, in Seaside Heights. Johnny Nameless played with artist Susu Pianchupattana at the time,” Suwak said. “We interviewed Frank several times and went to see where he grew up in Paterson, New Jersey.

“We finished the 20-minute short documentary in the summer of 2020 and had it screened at several film festivals, including the Southside Film Festival in Bethlehem,

Pennsylvania where it won the audience award for “Best Short Film,” she added.

“Frank was so happy when they announced it. Since then, we have made another short documentary about WWII veteran and philatelist Phil Schreiber who now lives in Highland Park. He is an amazing guy with so many interests, and so much knowledge. He turned us into philatelists because he makes it so exciting - the history and all of the events that have had postal covers,” Suwak said.

Suwak said, “we are currently in production of a third episode, which we hope to have finished and screen in the next couple months, and we hope to continue to make more episodes highlighting the lives of vets in our area.”

The name TV Party 2020 comes from the TV Party that came out of New York City in the late 70s and early 80s that showcased local artists and mostly but not all punk bands. Those events were hosted by Debbie Harry from the popular New Age band Blondie.

“It was really a great way for artists of all kinds to meet and showcase their work,” Suwak added.

Johnny Nameless is a local band out of Seaside Heights that had played in the region for years. Sleeping in the Sun is a group of friends from Toms River who have been jamming since about 2019, she added. Suwak said Sleeping in the Sun played that night for the first time at TV Party 2020. Both bands have made movie scores for their films, including Jersey Shore Veteran Stories.

“We hope that events like TV Party 2020

can continue and showcase local art in the region. We would like to livestream the events, get local sponsors, and provide complete local entertainment with local artists, local food and local brands,” she said.

“We plan on making and showcasing more Veteran Stories as we have quite a large population of aging veterans who need their story told before it’s too late and it’s lost forever,” Suwak said.

TV Party 2020 events include music, film screenings, additional micro-film interviews and highlights of Ocean County throughout the evening. There is also music and art for sale, a cash bar, and free food items available. The cost of admission is a $10 donation.

For information about future TV Party 2020 events, email roamingdingoproductions@gmail.com or call 732-552-9699.

─Photo By Bob Vosseller

The artwork of Susu Pianchupattana is seen on display during the fourth TV Party 2020 event at the American Legion Post 351 in Seaside Heights

Adriana

Continued

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 again in our lifetime.” 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

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: 732-240-6100 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.

─Photo by Chris Lundy Friends who knew her comforted each other at the vigil.

Ciba: Continued From Page 1

information on the status of the Toms River from the border of Manchester to the Barnegat Bay, and to continue to monitor it for the next three years. Additionally, they want a public information plan in place so that residents know what’s happening with the remediation, while also giving the public opportunities to become involved.

Ciba-Geigy opened in 1952 and closed in 1990. It manufactured dyes and other chemicals, dumping the waste into the river and the ground. Many people attribute the area’s cancer cluster to its operation. It became an Environmental Protection Agency Superfund Site in 1983. The settlement with the State DEP will not impact the situation with the federal EPA.

The former Ciba land is 1,255 acres between Route 37 and Oak Ridge Parkway, west of the Garden State Parkway. According to a settlement

announced on December 5 by the DEP, about 1,000 acres would be preserved. Of this, approximately 790 acres will be maintained as open space and will include restoration projects. The remaining 210 acres will be set aside for pollinator habitat and solar energy production. There would be trails, a boardwalk, and an environmental education center. The project could break ground as soon as spring of 2023 and be open to the public in phases over the next five years. The portion that won’t be part of the preservation

project is about 255 acres that are currently zoned as light industrial with an entrance onto Route 37.

German company BASF assumed responsibility for the site in 2010 through corporate acquisitions. When BASF acquired Ciba, the property was undergoing remediation efforts such as excavation and capping of contaminated areas and the pumping and treatment of contaminated groundwater, the DEP said.

Public Interaction

The DEP will be hosting a public meeting about the settlement in Toms River High School North’s auditorium at 6 p.m. on March 13.

Comments about the settlement may be submitted electronically at onrr@dep.nj.gov. Comments will be accepted until April 5.

There is a way to comment on the settlement on the DEP’s site as well. The proposed settlement agreement between BASF and the DEP can be found here: nj.gov/dep/nrr/settlements/index.html

For more information on the site and the EPA’s remediation process, visit cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/SiteProfiles/index.cfm?fuseaction=second. cleanup&id=0200078#Status

History:

Continued From Page 1

That old basement: cold, dark, damp, dirty, dreary. It was, simply, nasty. But we tackled the project there and included what we found - early to mid-20th century records - in our inventory.

As we worked through the basement, what a find we were to make! What luck! Tucked away in an old, rusty file cabinet were decades of the clerk’s office hand written Dover Township (our town name until 2006) election returns in presidential elections.

The records were un-official, on large paper sheets, probably recorded on election nights when the numbers from the various voting districts were called in by telephone or physically delivered to Town Hall. The results were probably entered by the municipal clerk at the time - as the office then was a one-man operation. Theodore Fischer was the clerk from 1914 to 1947. He was the village barber when he first took office and is the longest serving clerk in town history. When he died, still in office, the mayor, the chairman of the township committee - Colin Applegate - resigned from that position and took his place. He served until 1967. The hand written tally sheets sometimes had minor differences with the later officially certified results. For example, in the 1964 election, the official results gave one candidate four more votes than the handwritten clerk’s sheet.

Here’s what those irreplaceable records tell us.

Our Records And Presidential History

In the four times that he ran for president, Dover Township was not kind to Franklin D. Roosevelt. He lost here every time that he ran. While he won New Jersey each time, here’s how FDR fared in our town:

In 1932, he lost to President Herbert Hoover, the Republican, 1,266 to 902.

(History - See Page 9)

S potlight o n g overnment

Police – Mental Health Collaboration To Expand With $10 Million Investment

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy announced that his upcoming budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024 will include $10 million in funding to expand the ARRIVE Together program to the entire state, creating the first statewide law enforcement and mental health co-responder collaboration in the country.

Governor Murphy, joined by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, also announced the upcoming expansion of the program, which connects mental health professionals with law enforcement officers to more effectively respond to mental-health-crisis calls, set to take place this year. Utilizing $2 million in funds set aside by the Governor and state lawmakers in the current FY2023 state budget, over two dozen municipalities in 10 different counties will be joining ARRIVE Together starting in May 2023.

“The ARRIVE Together program is a game changer, and I am incredibly pleased by the success the program has had during its pilot stages in connecting those experiencing behavioral health crises with a certified mental health professional,” said Governor Murphy. “This proposed investment and the expansion of the program will help our efforts to enhance law enforcement’s servicing of neighborhoods and will strengthen the bonds between our officers and the communities they serve. Attorney General Platkin, Colonel Callahan, and I will continue to work with our state’s law enforcement and mental health professionals to ensure these crises are de-escalated safely, fairly, and efficiently to protect individuals in mental distress.”

“ARRIVE Together began as a State Police pilot program, and through partnerships forged between law enforcement and mental health providers we are building it into a statewide program,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “It has been a transformative and powerful model, consistently de-escalating situations that could have had far worse outcomes for everyone involved. With the support and vision of Governor Murphy, I am committed to continuing to grow this program and improve services for our most vulnerable residents.”

That imminent expansion will bring the total number of law enforcement agencies

involved in the initiative to over thirty. In most jurisdictions, mental health professionals will accompany plainclothes officers in unmarked police vehicles to respond to 9-1-1 calls for service relating to mental or behavioral health crises, although each county may employ a slightly different framework of interaction between the mental health and law enforcement responders. Nine different health care providers around the state have signed on to dedicate their resources to work with police on this effort, which is designed to form relationships between individuals needing help and law enforcement and mental health professionals, in order to de-escalate situations and transition away from law enforcement relying on emergency rooms or use of force.

“The deployment of mental health professionals, in concert with New Jersey State Troopers, has provided vital services to those in mental distress at the time where it is needed the most,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “We have taken the program to the forefront as an investment into the well-being of the citizens we are sworn to serve. Just as emergency medical services are summoned to a scene to serve as a higher level of patient care, the State Police recognizes that the trusted partners of the ARRIVE Together Program have the ability to mitigate crisis, reduce the risk of physical harm, and potentially bridge the gap into continued compassionate care for citizens struggling with mental health issues. We celebrate the expansion of this indispensable plan of action and look forward to joining new law enforcement partners as they join in this altruistic project.”

The teams of law enforcement officers paired with mental health screeners have made over 300 contacts with residents suffering from mental health disorders or co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders. During those interactions, there have been no injuries, and no response by an ARRIVE Together team has escalated into an arrest. Responding officers have only used force for involuntary transports of individuals ordered by the mental health professionals who co-responded.

Police officers from the following local municipalities and agencies will soon be participating in the program: Beachwood, Berkeley, Ocean Gate and Pine Beach.

“We are pleased to see the steady growth of the ARRIVE Together program in New Jersey, as an increasing number of munic -

ipal police departments are collaborating with mental health providers,” said Thomas Dellane, president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

“While this program is only in its infancy, it has enormous potential. ARRIVE Together has already demonstrated itself as a vital tool for law enforcement, as we

respond to incidents involving individuals suffering from mental or behavioral struggles. We salute Attorney General Matthew Platkin’s commitment to this initiative, as well as the State Police and local police departments that are already involved. We look forward to its steady expansion across New Jersey.”

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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 Toms River 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

That’s 58 percent to 42 percent. In that election, Roosevelt, up to that time, had scored the largest victory in presidential history - capturing 42 of the then 48 states.

In 1936, Roosevelt lost to Kansas Governor Alf Landon, 1,536 to 1,214. It was his best year in Dover Township with 44 percent. FDR carried 46 of the 48 states that year.

In 1940, running for an unprecedented third term, Roosevelt lost to Republican businessman Wendell Wilkie 2,017 to 1,150, a 64 to 36 margin. Wilkie won eight states.

In 1944, FDR lost again: 1,814 votes for New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey to the then war-time president’s 1,021, again, 64 to 36 percent. Dewey carried 12 states.

In 1948, President Harry Truman, who had succeeded to the presidency upon Roosevelt’s death, ran for the Democrats and was clobbered by Dewey in the Dover vote, 2,175 to 683. That’s 76 to 24 percent. Dewey also carried New Jersey that year, but lost the election.

Dover Township liked “Ike” - the retired General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who, in 1952 carried the town with 3,238 votes against the Democratic candidate, Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson, 1,224 votes.

Four years later, Eisenhower, the Republican, again carried the township: 3,938 to 1,489, or 73 to 27 percent. There were nine election districts and Eisenhower carried them all. (Today, there are 63 election districts in Toms River.)

In 1960, Eisenhower’s Vice President, Richard M. Nixon, ran against Massachusetts Senator John F. Kennedy. There were ten election districts and Nixon, the Republican, carried all of them. While Nixon narrowly lost New Jersey, in Dover Township he captured 61 percent of the vote – 4,528 to 2,905 according to Clerk Applegate’s handwritten sheet. The official tally would give Nixon another 180 votes and Kennedy 101, but the final, certified percentage margin stayed the same. The additional votes in the official tally were probably what were then known as “absentee ballots” which were not listed in Applegate’s paper sheet.

Despite the local vote here, Kennedy was elected and with his assassination in 1963, Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson became President. In the 1964 election, it was Johnson against Republican Senator Barry Goldwater of Arizona. President Johnson did something in our town’s history that a Democrat had never done before in the 20th century: he carried Dover Township. The clerk’s tally sheet recorded 6,035 votes for Johnson and 4,302 for Goldwater. The President won 11 of the 12 districts - losing in only one beachfront election district.

As time marched forward, the only other Democrat to carry the township in the 20th century was President Bill Clinton when he ran for re-election in 1996 and by then our election records were no longer maintained in handwritten, paper form. Records not only have informative value, they also have intrinsic value. This means that a document itself, separate from its content, has value too: its physical qualities, its format, and the condition that it’s in. That’s why documents such as the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are safely secured in temperature and humidity controlled, impenetrable glass cases in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. With this in mind, our presidential election records here in Toms River were preserved in glass casing for future generations.

Bringing History To Life

An old basement, lost records, hard work, and some luck - it all makes presidential history come alive in Toms River! Happy Presidents’ Day!

SOURCES: Dover Township Presidential Election Results 1932-1964; New Jersey Legislative Manual; Wikipedia COMING UP: What else was discovered in the Town Hall basement?

J. Mark Mutter is the retired Clerk of Dover and Toms River Townships. He was elected to the Dover Township Committee for three terms and served as Mayor in 1993 and 2000. He chaired the township’s 225-year anniversary committee in 1992, its 250-year anniversary committee in 2017, and its 200-year anniversary committee of the bi-centennial of the United States Constitution in 1987. He is writing a book on the history of Toms River.

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MAR. 9 PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW AT THE CONVENTION CENTER $149/pp

Includes Lunch On The iconic Moshulu.

MAR.19 IRISH CABARET STARRING ANDY COONEY @ HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE $136/pp

Hampton, NJ. 2pm dinner show.

MAR.30 MOSES AT SIGHT & SOUND THEATRE LANCASTER, PA $144/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple & Center Orch Seat.

MAR.30 MY MOTHER’S ITALIAN, MY FATHERS IS JEWISH I’M IN THERAPY $99/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play, $15 Food Voucher, and Show.

APR. 4 MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET AT HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE $125/pp

Includes Lunch Before Show.

APR.11 FOUR BY FOUR AT WIND CREEK CASINO BETHLEHEM, PA $99/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play & Show.

APR.27 THE KENNY ROGERS BAND PRESENTS THOUGH THE YEARS FT.DON GATLIN TROPICANA $99/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play, $15 Food Voucher, Show Ticket.

APR. 27 MOSES AT SIGHT & SOUND THEATRE LANCASTER, PA $144/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple & Center Orch Seat.

MAY 23-27 5 DAY GREAT SMOKEY MOUNTAINS ADVENTURE $1098/pp Dbl. Occ.

Package Includes 2 Nights stay Dolly Parton Resort, 1 night in each direction,2 Live Shows, 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners, Step on Guide, Moonshine Distillery Tour, Hollywood Car Museum and more.

MAY 24 FUNNY GIRL MUSICAL STARING LEA MICHELE AS FANNY BRICE $254/pp

Includes Orchestra Seat & Lunch.

MAY 24 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL $224/pp

Includes Orchestra Seat & Lunch.

MAY 30-31 2 DAY TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLI & FOUR SEASONS @ RESORTS WORLD CATSKILLS $232/pp Dbl.Occ. Join us at the Resorts Catskills Resort in the Beautiful Catskill mountain region for one night and see A Tribute To Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Package Includes Day 1-$25 Slot Play & $20 Food Voucher. DAY 2-$25 Slot Play, Lunch and Show Ticket.

MAY 31 MJ THE MICHEAL JACKSON MUSICAL $226/pp

Includes Orchestra Seat & Lunch.

MAY 31 SWEENEY TODD STARING JOSH GROBAN $224/pp

Includes Orchestra Seat & Lunch.

JUNE 4-6 3 DAY 1000 ISLAND & BOLDT CASTLE $739/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 2 Nights Lodging at 1000 Island Hotel, Boldt Castle, Boat Tour 2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners, Antique Boat Musuem, Local Winery for Tasting.

JUNE 11-14 4 DAY NIAGARA FALLS & SAFARI $939/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 3 nights stay at the 5 star Hilton Fallsview Hotel with a Falls View Room, 3 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners, Step on Guided Tours, Safari, Hornblower ‘’ride to the falls” & more

JUNE 21 CAMELOT AT THE LINCOLN CENTER $295/pp

Includes Orchestra Seat & Lunch.

JUNE 25-28 4 DAY CAPE COD & MARTHA’S VINEYARD $817/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 3 Nights Lodging Fairfield Inn & Suites, Step on Guide Tours, Martha’s Vineyard, 3 Dinners, 3 Breakfasts. Whale Watching Cruise and more.

JULY 5-13 8 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE $2016/pp Dbl.Occ. Departs from New York City on the beautiful Carnival Venezia. Includes: Roundtrip Transportation,Mid ship Balcony, All Gratuities, Port fees, Travel Insurance. $50 cabin credit.

AUG. 28-30 3 DAY LAKE GEORGE & SARATOGA SPRINGS $659/pp Dbl.Occ.

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Residents Honored For Their Service

TOMS RIVER – At Toms River

Fire Department’s monthly corporate meeting, they had two very special presentations.

They announced and welcomed a very special young man into the department as an Honorary Member Nikko Heinzman. Time after time Nikko goes above and beyond to donate to the agency. They thank you for all that you have done for us in the recent past,

and welcome.

They had yet another milestone event. Past President Ronald Weingroff received a proclamation from the Toms River Township Mayor and Council for 50 years of dedicated volunteer service to the Toms River Fire Department and Township of Toms River. They thank you for everything you have done for the department and the lives you have touched over the years.

Naya Darnowski Of Toms River Named To Kutztown University Softball Team

TOMS RIVER – Kutztown University will have 20 student-athletes representing its softball program for the 2023 season, including Naya Darnowski of Toms River

For just the second time in program history and the first since the 2014 season, the Kutztown University softball team enters

this season as defending Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference champions. The 2023 season could turn out to be another historic one for KU, looking to repeat as conference champions and be the PSACs first repeat champ since California (Pa.) won back-toback titles in 2014 and 2015.

Wonders Of The Seasonal Sky

TOMS RIVER – Join the live Planetarium presenter at Robert J. Novins Planetarium for an in-depth tour of our current sky over New Jersey! This ever-changing program explores the season’s constellations, bright stars, visible planets, deep sky objects, and celestial highlights.

Constellation mythology and recent events are

also included. Prepare to ask questions and even answer them as our presenter creates an informal atmosphere for your enjoyment of the current seasonal sky.

Recommended for ages 12 and over. The next showing will be on February 18 from 7 to 8 p.m.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Fire Department

All South Jersey Junior High Band Welcomes Several District Musicians

TOMS RIVER – Auditions were held for the Region III All South Jersey Junior High Band. Intermediate East seventh grader and euphonium player Abigail Rubino auditioned and was accepted. As were Intermediate North’s Abigail Schenck and Angela

Tobin, for the bass clarinet and flute, respectively.

These newly-inducted All South Jersey musicians will perform in concert March 5 at Fernwood Middle School in Egg Harbor. Congratulations to the young musical standouts!

Just Believe Inc First Annual 5K Run And 1K Run

TOMS RIVER – Become a race sponsor and lace up those sneakers for a great cause to raise funds for Just Believe Inc first Transitional home called Larry’s’ Home which will help veterans transition back into society.

The event will take place at Winding River Park, 147 Oak Ridge Parkway, Toms River, on May 13 at 8 a.m. Call Linda for Registration and sponsorship information at 732-569-0643.

A LITTLE EXTRA PROTECTION

Our bodies are created with many different means of protecting our eyes from everyday harm. Lenses, eyelids, lashes, and tears are all very efficient at their jobs. However, those who spend a great deal of time in environments with large amounts of intense sunlight, sand, dust, and wind may find their bodies taking more extreme measures to keep their sight safe. Pterygia are growths, often triangular in shape, that originate when eyes require more protection. In most cases, growths can be stopped by limiting eyes’ exposure to irritants. Generally, pterygia are not dangerous, but in rare cases they can continue to grow across the eye, blocking sight or alter the shape of the cornea.

For minor cases, treatment usually involves eye drops or ointment to treat inflammation. Thick or larger pterygium can make it feel like you have a foreign object in your eye. You may not be able to continue wearing contacts when you have a pterygium due to discomfort. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Those who are more likely to develop pterygia, such as surfers, farmers, and welders, can reduce their risk by consistently wearing proper eye protection.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020 www.oceancountyeye.com

BRICK (732) 477-6981

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

The Tea Room is open

Wednesday-Sunday 11am-4pm

Gift Shoppe: Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm

Bed & Breakfast: Open daily 24 hours mathishouse600main.com

732-818-7580

Veolia Commemorates Wear Red Day In Honor Of Heart Health Month

TOMS RIVER – Veolia recognized American Heart Association’s National Wear Red Day on February 3, welcoming RWJ Barnabas/Community Hospital’s Anemona Anghel-Filip, MD who spoke to the company’s office staff and field crews about important aspects of lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. Accompanying Dr. Anghel to Veolia were internal medicine resident doctors Song Peng Ang, MD and Amanda Chajkowski, MD who completed blood pressure and EKG screenings for Veolia employees. Assisting Veolia in organizing the event were Kristine Field, Director of Community Outreach and Laura Cino, Director Cardiology

Consultants.

While National Wear Red Day is commemorated on the first Friday in February, the American Heart Association designates the entire month of February as heart month in an effort to raise awareness about heart disease and how to prevent it.

Anemona Anghel-Filip, MD concentrates in preventive cardiology, heart failure and cardio-oncology. She graduated from Sackler School of Medicine Tel Aviv University, The American Branch, New York, NY and has board certifications in cardiovascular disease, echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, endovascular and vascular medicine.

─Photo courtesy Veolia

$500K Donation To Benefit Health Sciences Education At Ocean County College

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County College Foundation recently accepted a $500,000 donation from the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad to establish the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Public Health Scholarship Fund. The donation will be used to support the college’s health sciences programs.

“The Ocean County College Foundation is honored to receive such a generous gift from the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad,” said Ken Malagiere, executive director of the Ocean County College Foundation. “This expendable fund will be dedicated to scholarships in nursing and the health sciences as well as support public health programming for Ocean County College students, and our broader community.

“This major gift is an example of the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad’s commitment to healthcare and public health, a testament to its years of service to the Ocean County community, and a recognition of the important role Ocean County College plays in preparing our students to serve that community in the future,” added Malagiere.

“The Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad proudly provided prehospital emergency medical services along the Barrier Island sections

of both Brick and Toms River Townships for 70 years,” the organization said in a statement. “Founded in 1952, dedicated volunteers staffed ambulances and treated medical emergencies without charge to the public. In honor of those dedicated volunteers who gave of themselves and in celebration of their service to the community, Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad offers financial support to those pursuing studies in the Public Health/Sciences Fields.”

The Ocean County College Foundation, a private non-profit organization, is dedicated to the growth and development of Ocean County College through scholarships, endowments, and capital and special projects. Originally established to provide scholarships to students attending Ocean County College, the Foundation has expanded its outreach to partner with community leaders in business, industry, education, and government to reach a common goal to provide quality, affordable education for our students and to prepare them for successful careers while making a positive impact in our community.

For more information about the Ocean County College Foundation, visit go.ocean.edu/foundation or call 732-255-0492.

─Photo courtesy Ocean County College

Dr. Izzy’s

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).

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

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

Dear

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.

OUTPATIENT REHAB:

• Have the ability to live at home or live in a sober home with the ability to see your friends and family

• 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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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.

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.

Downtown Toms River Irish Festival

TOMS RIVER – Join the Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee as they host the 2nd annual Downtown Toms River Irish Festival on March 4 from 12 to 6 p.m.

There will be live music from The Eamon Ryan Band, St. Patrick’s Day festivities and your chance to win awesome B985 swag/ prizes! More information can be found by visiting ocstpatricksdayparade.com.

Students, Staff Join Forces To Beautify High School East

TOMS RIVER – High School East Principal Erin Anders made an executive decision recently. She was committed to beautifying the building, and it was decided: “Lower W” was getting a makeover. A fresh coat of paint and, eventually, some new artistic hallway wall designs are really going to go a long way toward making the

school feel rejuvenated, she figured. Anders sought out student and staff volunteers, and certainly wasn’t opposed to getting her own hands dirty. The beautification project officially started, with time spent priming the walls.

“It already looks amazing,” said HSE teacher Allison Goodwin.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

CLASSIFIEDS

Items For Sale 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)

Personals

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

Services

Services Services Services

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

Bus Trips

Help Wanted

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

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

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

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)

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)

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)

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.

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:

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.

Raider Pantry Opens With Assist From Aidan Inteso Foundation

TOMS RIVER – February 1 marked the opening of High School East’s Raider Pantry, a place students can go when they need food, clothing, or everyday supplies.

Aside from being an indispensable place for students in need, the pantry’s 2023 opening was especially meaningful thanks to financial support from the Aidan Inteso Memorial Foundation. The nonprofit’s namesake is a former HSE student and hockey player who tragically passed away a few years ago. A benefit hockey game, A Game for Aidan, is held annually in his honor, and the foundation has carried on his legacy at East and throughout the community.

So much so that the school felt it appropriate and necessary to show the Aidan Inteso Memorial Foundation its gratitude for their support of the pantry, and to further acknowledge the ongoing impact that Aidan has within the school. A plaque was presented to Aidan’s family, which reads, “In Appreciation to the Aidan M. Inteso Memorial Foundation for Their Generous Donations that

have made The Raider Pantry Possible.” The plaque features a photo of Aidan holding his hockey stick, and reads, “In Loving Memory of Aidan Inteso, Class of 2020.”

The plaque will serve as a marker for the Raider Pantry, a reminder of the goodwill he engendered for a space with the same mission.

The foundation’s donation, in fact, will not simply go toward stocking the shelves. High School East’s 18-21-year-old cohort of students receiving special services take on the responsibility of purchasing items for and stocking the pantry. Their trips to ShopRite and other outlets, for example, teach them the life skills of itemizing, budgeting, and interpersonal communication.

“The support of the Aidan Inteso Memorial Foundation for the Raider Pantry will, like Aidan himself, touch the lives of many people directly and indirectly,” said Principal Erin Anders. Anders was joined by East Ambassadors, hockey players, students, and staff, and Aidan’s family for the grand-opening celebration.

─Photo courtesy Allison Goodwin

photo of the week

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!

Psychic Fair

TOMS RIVER – Clear your calendar! Psychic Fair presented by the H.C.B. First Aid Auxiliary will be on April 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Holiday City West Clubhouse, 45 Cabrillo Boulevard, Toms River.

Tickets are $50 for 30-minute sessions (by appointment only). Appointments book up fast so schedule early. Money raised will be donated to the HCB First Aid Squad. For appointment, contact Madeline Wesolowski at 732-797-0686 or Madweso@comcast.net. Please leave message. She will get back to you.

Wanda: A spiritual reader from a long ancestral background of psychics. Reading Tarot for 15+ years. She deals in herbal medicines and spiritual healing.

Joe Hicks: Joe is a medium. As far as he can remember he has heard and seen things others don’t. When he spoke to his parents about it, they would brush it aside. He realized that not everyone saw what he could see. For years he only helped friends, but then it became more apparent that he had this gift and should be helping others. He says what he has is truly a blessing.

Margaret Steele: Is a medium, Angel card

readings and automatic handwriting to contact your personal ones in Heaven. Certified Reiki Master, who also uses crystals to perform healing sessions on people & animals.

Tori: Has lot of experience. She does spiritual healing, card reading and Reike.

Carol Hellings: Is a professional psychic reader. She has been practicing for many years. She is a certified astrologer and published on Palmistry. She appeared on TV, radio, and taught classes in psychic development.

Carolyn: Has decades of experience. She feels like she was born with the gift of intuition.

Marian: Has been a working as a gifted psychic/medium for over 30 years in northern New Jersey and loves guiding people through their difficulties, concerns or challenges. She is straightforward and direct when revealing the messages through visions, symbols, and words. She has read many TV reality people.

Future events to be held:

• July 15 - Psychic Fair

• August 13 - Mystery Theater

• October 21 - Psychic Fair

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

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.

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

By America’s Test Kitchen

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

EAT

(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.)

(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.

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.