2023-03-04 - The Southern Ocean Times

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Local Youth Educates At State Agricultural Convention

By Stephanie Faughnan

ATLANTIC CITY – New Jersey

State Agricultural leaders learned the benefits of promoting 4-H Clubs from an Ocean County student ambassador at their convention last month.

Nora Hansen, 17, a Barnegat Township High School senior, offered some keen insight regarding her experiences in the last nine years as a member of the Ocean County 4-H program.

“When I was only eight years old, I stepped onto a horse farm in my town and fell in love with the animal,” said Nora to the room filled with approximately 125 participants. “The idea of keeping and

Skate Park Debated In Beach Haven

By Stephanie Faughnan

Pages 8-11

(Youth - See Page 4)

Page 14

18

Protesters Ask For Answers To Whale Deaths

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY –

“Save the Whales” has been a slogan since at least the 1970s, and now in 2023 it’s still being used by people concerned that offshore wind projects are leading to the deaths of these animals.

There have been several dead whales that have washed up on the shore in recent weeks, which makes animal lovers wonder if the number of whale deaths is actually higher. Could there be other dead whales that didn’t wash up? They also have been asking,

if something is killing these large, strong animals, what is happening to the rest of the creatures deep in the ocean?

Leslie Mangold, a retired Central Regional High School teacher, spoke with Trisha DeVoe, a naturalist on the Miss Belmar Whale

Watching boat, to see what they can put together to spark awareness. Word spread through social media and resulted in a huge crowd on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk.

“We know something’s wrong. We don’t know what it is. We need to

be asking questions,” DeVoe said.

It wasn’t just these two women who helped bring attention to it. That was Valentine, a whale that got her name because she washed up in Manasquan on February 13, DeVoe said.

(Whale - See Page 21)

BEACH

HAVEN

– A resolution concerning a proposed skateboard park in the municipality could fi nally come up for a vote by the governing body later this month.

It might all depend on whether or not a proposed site plan is in place by then.

Councilwoman Jaime Baumiller said discussions about the project began a year ago when the Council received a petition requesting a skate park. Over 200 signatures were presented by students who attended the Beach Haven School.

The top three concerns under consideration are the location of the skate park, its design, and its funding. Once those items have been determined, the Council will need to decide how to manage the park and whether there will be supervised or unsupervised hours of operation.

The Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) will most likely have certain requirements concerning the establishment of the skate board park. JIF handles the borough’s risk management and claims process with regard to incidents on local government property.

According to Baumiller, funding for the skatepark was initially to be paid for by donations alone. However, residents have objected to the government

(Skate Park - See Page 5)

Berkeley Pushes For “Adriana’s Law” To Protect Kids

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – Responding to a cyberbullying attack that contributed to the suicide of a local teen, elected officials are pushing for a law that would make it a crime to share images or videos of an attack on a minor.

The law would be named “Adriana’s Law” for Adriana Kuch who took her life after she was assaulted by four girls at Central Regional High School. One of the attackers took a video of the incident and shared it. Many kids at the school saw the video and, after her death, it was viewed by many more

(Law - See Page 7)

–Photo courtesy Wendy Hansen (Above) Nora Hansen gave a speech at New Jersey State Agricultural Convention.

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan (Left) Nora Hansen and Jenna Marcy after their Adopt-A-Street Presentation to Barnegat Township Committee.

Youth:

Continued From Page 1

caring for livestock fascinated me from a very young age.”

As part of her equestrian journey, Nora said she moved on to join the Cross Street Riders 4-H Club and ultimately became part of the Horse Science team for Ocean County 4-H. She not only competed in events like the Horse Bowl, Hippology, and Horse

Judging; Nora also became immersed in Veterinary Science, Animal Science, and photography projects.

Nora’s exposure to caring for animals undoubtedly helped her map out a plan for the future as she prepares to graduate high school in June. An extremely focused and determined young woman, Nora intends to pursue a career in veterinary medicine – and she’s thinking big.

The future should fi nd a young Dr. Han-

sen in either a zoo or wildlife preserve, continuing to make a difference. Nora’s got her heart set on treating exotic species and large animals like lions, tigers, and bears.

Amelia Valente, Senior Program Director of the 4-H Program of the Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, explained why Nora was selected to speak before the state’s agricultural leaders.

“Each county sends a teen ambassador down to the convention,” explained Valente.

“They host a display table and talk to dignitaries about their program.”

Nora and Alex Morgan of Jackson earned the honors of attending the convention. When the New Jersey 4-H chair asked if any of the leaders could think of someone to present, Valente knew she had the perfect candidate.

Not only does Nora have a go-getter attitude, in Valente’s opinion, but she also shines as a product of the 4-H program. She exudes confidence, is radiant, and seems comfortable talking in front of the other kids and the general public.

“When many people think of agriculture, they think of sheep, cows, and goats,” Valente shared. “These are parts of traditional farming and important and needed in our state.”

However, Nora also proved she was invested in the collaborative side of farming practices and how important environmental efforts are to agriculturalists. As a member of the Ecology Club and the founder of Barnegat’s Adopt-a-Street program, Nora demonstrated her commitment to the environment.

“Though it may not be obvious to most, there is a direct correlation between environmentalism and agriculture,” said Nora to the group of agricultural leaders. “Environmentalists and agriculturalists do not always get along, but I am here to share why it is important for all of us to collaborate together - to help our Earth.”

By way of example, Nora said that she recently teamed up with “Save Barnegat Bay” to help keep our waters clean and protect our ecosystems by fighting back against unsafe fishing practices.

Additionally, Nora has developed a passion for soil, composting, and vermiculture, which is the artificial rearing or cultivation of worms. The teen reminded the agriculturists that it was crucial to the environment to ensure compostable items weren’t wasted by being sent to landfills.

Valente said Nora’s presentation made a significant impact on the group that was impressed by how the teenager married the two subjects. The feedback is not surprising to those who know Nora in her hometown.

The summer before she entered Barnegat High School, Nora and her friend Jenna Marcy appeared at a meeting before the governing body. The two girls worked with then-Dunfee School Counselor Michele Cucinotta to present a targeted environmental program.

At just 13 years old, Nora was already on the way to demonstrating her skills as a gifted speaker who could convince adults to do the right thing as far as the environment.

She and Jenna did an audio-visual exhibition on the merits of volunteer clean-up of local streets. The Adopt-A-Street proposal was put into effect in 2019 and continues to thrive.

Like many graduating seniors, the next year of Nora’s life may well be in the hands of college admissions officials. She’s already received acceptance letters from TCNJ, UCONN, Susquehanna, Delaware Valley University, and Rowan Universities. Good things often come to those who wait, as Nora hopes to hear from her fi rst choice of Duke University with positive news soon.

Skate Park:

Continued

From Page 1

agreeing to pay for other recreational activities such as pickleball and tennis and not the proposed skateboard park,

“I’m proposing that Beach Haven pays for Phase I of the skate park,” said Baumiller. “If possible, Phase II would be paid for by donations.”

Officials originally considered three separate locations, including Taylor Avenue, Walsh Field, and behind the old police station. The size requirements made a big difference in coming up with Walsh Field as the proposed site.

“In order for a park to be insured, you have to have a five-foot buffer between the park and the fence,” Baumiller said. “There’s just not enough room back there at Taylor, and there’s also a visibility concern.”

The police chief and the Department of Public Works supervisor nixed using the area by the old police station. Cable and other utilities could create a problem.

Walsh Field is approximately 211,000 square feet and is located at 300 Pearl Street. The skate park would take up 2.7 percent of the space in the park and is marked for placement next to the tennis courts.

Baumiller emphasized that the proposal calls for the construction of what she termed a “tiny” skate park with 5,000 square feet planned for Phase I of the project.

“It’s not a destination skate park where there are competitions,” Baumiller said.

“They are 30,000 to 40,000 square feet.” Plans are for multi-generations of families to utilize the park once Phase II construction is completed. Smaller children will be able to gain their footing on one end, with more challenging areas located on the other side.

Insurance regulations include the need for fencing and signage. Participants would need to wear helmets and pads.

The governing body previously passed an ordinance allotting $325,000 to the project. Hopes are that any balance will come from volunteer donations.

“I think that kids that skate board have a mission, and they’re going to come in here to enjoy doing this,” shared Mayor Nancy Taggart Davis. “It’s going to be fun watching them. We need to support the athletic endeavors of both the children and older people in town.”

Members of the Council raised questions regarding the cost of construction. Some expressed concerns that the skate park could bring problems to the area as allegedly experienced in other areas.

Several people spoke during the public portion of the town council meeting. Most shared their excitement about the proposal, while some thought it was a dangerous idea.

Sharon Ryan, a Pearl Street resident, said she did a Google search and found that many skateparks had shut down in recent years. She said many of the articles she came across related the park closures to illegal drug and alcohol use.

“I don’t believe it would be our (Beach Haven) kids at fault here,” Ryan said.

“Several of the articles said the kids came from of town, and they basically took over the parks.”

Mark Morton, 53, said he and his family are seasonal Beach Haven residents. He offered his support for the project, saying he has two daughters who skateboarded. Morton also enjoys skateboarding and said he sees it as a family event.

“I think it’s great to stay positive about this because we can come up with a million negative things to say,” shared John O’Hara of Pennsylvania Avenue. “But we can solve those things, and I’m so happy the Council has taken the time to hear us and support us.”

The enthusiasm for the proposal came from residents of other towns on Long

Beach Island. Rather than attracting trouble, some saw the skate park as a means of keeping kids away from it.

One speaker pointed out that before the public commentary began, the fi rst three rows of the meeting were filled with Beach Haven elementary school kids who hoped the skate park would become a reality.

“Unfortunately, a lot of them had to leave for sports commitments,” Dan Allen said, “Or, they just got plain tired of budget discussions.”

Surfi ng, skating, and fishing are what this community wants to do,” summed up Ship Bottom resident John Coen. “You’re giving something that reflects the culture that has been here..and making an investment in the community.”

PHOTO WEEK OF

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

When The Media Descended On Central Regional

This editorial might come off as strange since I’m the news editor of this publication. I read every single word in all seven newspapers we publish every week. Part of my job is to make sure that our stories are held to a certain standard.

Without naming names, due to professional courtesy, almost all of the stories I read about the Adriana Kuch tragedy had glaring errors, obvious bias, and even a lack of basic knowledge of how the world works.

I’m not going to use this platform to defend or condemn any member of the public or the school district. This is all going to be an insider’s look at how things went wrong in the media coverage.

If it bleeds, it leads: This is an unfortunate part of journalism. It’s a mantra you learn early in your

Jackson Residents Deserve Better

The open public meetings act in NJ was designed to create public access to the meetings of large government bodies at the state and local levels. NJSA10:4-6et seq section “Electronic notice requires governments to provide advance notice available to the public via electronic transmission of at least 48 hours, giving the time, date, location and to the

education for this field. A bus crash is going to be on the front page, but a story about a kid doing something nice might be page 3.

That’s why so many reporters descended on Berkeley. Like sharks, they smelled blood in the water. This kind of ambulance chasing gives the rest of us a bad name. These reporters wouldn’t be able to find Berkeley on a map. And they won’t come back ever again, unless something bad happens, of course.

They might say they’re doing a good thing by shining a light on wrongdoing. But they’re not going to stay around for what happens next. They’ll have moved on to the next tragedy by then. For them, and the rest of their readers, Berkeley will be the place where this horrible thing happened and nothing more.

Bias: Most of the writers had already made their minds up by the time they arrived on

extent known, the Agenda of any regular, special or rescheduled meeting which notice shall accurately state whether formal action may or may not be taken at such meeting.”

Jackson Township Council President Marty Flemming has been posting amending agendas well within the minimum 48 hour notice requirement. We have discovered that over half of the Jackson Council meetings over the last 2+ years have

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The Southern Ocean 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 veri�ication. 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

scene. In print, you can tell by their choice of words. On TV, you can tell by their tone of voice. They weren’t here to inform the public, they were here to condemn and play hero.

We’re human. We can’t turn our emotions off, especially about a very emotional topic. But we’re also supposed to step back from the issue and challenge our own convictions.

There was a lot of information going around, but these reporters selected which parts fit their narrative. They edited video interviews to make some people seem good and some people seem bad.

In reality, no one is a hero or a villain – not in this situation or in any other.

Being naive: I feel like a lot of these reporters need to get out of the newsroom and live life. They had no idea how the world really works. They don’t know what really happens in a

school - in every school across America. Do they think online bullying is new? Do they think that violence doesn’t happen in every high school, every week of the year?

The reporters repeated rumors on Facebook assuming they were true. How can someone trained in the media have a complete lack of media literacy? There was a tornado of accusations – about the school, the family, the kids involved –and some of the reporters just took them as fact.

When the news of this tragedy first hit, the district stayed silent because it involved kids and an active investigation. Reporters said they were hiding things. Then, the superintendent tells his version of everything (which was the wrong thing to do), and reporters blasted him for sharing information about kids and an active investigation. You can’t have it both ways.

During the press conference,

Letters To The Editor

violated the 48 hour notice requirement. The majority of the amended agenda violations were posted the day of the Council meeting with some posted days after. This certainly makes it impossible for residents to determine what is going to be voted on prior to and during Council meetings.

a one-month timespan. This should not come as a surprise to us who live in New Jersey. I have lived in NJ 70 years. Living in Brick these past 50 years have shown me what chemical pollution has done to our planet Earth.

the reporters were literally shouting “what are you hiding?!” They know that the official isn’t going to suddenly open up. They shouted that for show. They were just playing up for their own cameras.

Preying on kids: The teens being interviewed were literally children. I watched as they were being paraded around, cameras shoved in their faces, told they were important, and then discarded.

One of the few rules these reporters actually managed to follow was to get names for the children speaking. This is a case that they shouldn’t have. A 14-year-old talking about cutting themselves because they’ve been bullied should not have their name in the paper for everyone to see. What do you think is going to happen to these kids when their bullies read this? Or when a future employer Googles their name? I admire these kids’ bravery, and society shouldn’t

Donate To The NRA

In these times, when our freedoms are being taken from us right and left, it is important to support one of the only organizations that is fighting for us.

condemn mental illness, but that’s what’s going to happen.

Lack of compassion : Ultimately, all of these criticisms come back to one point: compassion. This was a horrible situation – that’s one thing everyone agrees on. However, when you craft a story, you have to have a goal in mind. What good will come of it?

Most of the articles I read didn’t care about the people involved. You could tell by the way they played up the violence of it. They loved the salacious details. They just wanted the clicks.

The reporters can say that they did all these things because they care about the children, but in reality they were just preying on a bad situation and making it worse.

Chris Lundy News Editor

New York Attorney General Letitia James filed the lawsuit against them alleging “financial misconduct” that added up to a loss of more than $64 million over a three-year period.

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 re�lect 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.

This issue was ignored when brought up at the December Council meeting and again at the February 14th council meeting. Council President Marty Flemming’s response “they will take it into consideration” is not good enough. Each violation could be subject to a $100 fine.

Raymond Cattonar Jackson

Water Pollution Is Killing The Whales

I am responding to your article in the Brick Times about the … dead whales that have washed up on the New YorkNew Jersey coastline within

One-third of our oceans are polluted and one-third of our land is polluted. It doesn’t make any difference if you live in New Jersey or California or Maine or Florida. All of our land on this planet is polluted.

Scientists have been telling us decades now that man is destroying himself by polluting the very air we breathe, causing diseases and sickness to ourselves and our families. We must stop this offshore wind development project, such as wind turbines that Governor Murphy wants to build. This does not help the environment. This causes harm to the endangered whales and the other sea creatures.

Rudy Ziadie Brick

That’s why they want to take down the National Rifle Association. They don’t want us to have our freedoms.

The attorney general in New York is suing them. They are spreading a story that (the NRA) is crooked. They want to shut them down!

The Democrats are claiming the NRA did fraud, giving money to family members instead of using it for legislation, and other stuff. Well, you know what they say – it takes one to know one!

The NRA is under attack from the outside because the left knows that it’s strong. That’s why you should donate to the NRA. Your money will go toward helping 2nd Amendment policies. It will make sure pro-2A senators and congressmen are in office making decisions for us!

Of courses this is a political attack. The NRA said it was a “baseless premeditated attack on our organization and the Second Amendment freedoms it fights to defend... we not only will not shrink from this fight – we will confront it and prevail.”

The lawsuit tried to dissolve the NRA but luckily it was blocked this time. They’ll be back again and they’ll keep trying to dissolve it time and time again.

NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre has said that the NRA’s legal troubles have cost the organization $100 million.

That’s why we need to donate to the NRA in order to keep them in the fight for us. We need to give them the strength and money to fight for us.

Steve Alben Manchester

Bill Would Require Schools To Report All Assaults Resulting In Injury To Police

blywoman DiAnne Gove (R-9 th) intend to introduce legislation that would require school officials to immediately report to the police any assault that results in the injury of a student.

of the incident and to put us in a more informed position to determine if amending existing state law is necessary and appropriate.

TRENTON – In response to incidents involving the tragic death of Central Regional High School student Adriana Kuch, Senator Christopher Connors, Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, and Assem-

The 9th District delegation issued the following remarks:

“Immediately following the death of Adriana Kuch, our delegation reached out to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office to gain a better understanding

“After careful consideration, our delegation is drafting new legislation that would require school officials to immediately report to the police any assault that results in the injury of a student. Amending state law would provide consistency, meaning that an incident of assault would no longer be dealt with as a matter of a school’s individual policy.

“Our legislation would apply to assaults

resulting in injury that occurs on school grounds or school facilities.

“Those who wish to cause harm to their fellow students should not be able to view schools as sanctuaries to commit acts of violence. Any assault resulting in injury on school property should be treated the same as an assault that occurs anywhere else.

“Importantly, we want to convey our heartfelt sympathies to family, friends, and fellow schoolmates of Adriana Kuch and to the community as a whole which has had to endure this terrible tragedy.”

Senators Oppose GOP Plan For 30% Sales Tax

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), joined a group of Democratic colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution opposing the plan led by Congressional Republicans to impose a nationwide sales tax on all goods and services, which would increase prices for hardworking families by 30 percent.

Law:

Continued From Page 1 people around the world.

At the Township Council meeting, Council President John Bacchione asked for a moment of silence to remember her.

Mayor Carmen Amato said that he’s spoken to a number of residents in the past few weeks regarding Adriana. He wants an anti-bullying law named after her that would create legal consequences for people who share video or images of an assault on a minor, since sharing the attack is an attack in and of itself. He was emotional in his statements and had to pause to collect himself.

“I’ve spoken numerous times to the prosecutor and elected officials, students and educators,” he said. “We must do everything we can to prevent something like this from ever happening again.”

A resolution the council passed said the state’s “Anti-Bullying Law” is well meaning, but it hasn’t prevented harassment, intimidation or bullying in schools. There is a lack of repercussions for those sharing and sending videos via

Instead of this misguided tax increase, the resolution calls for supporting a tax cut that will help working families and grow the middle class while opposing cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid, or cuts to pay or benefits for servicemembers, veterans, or law enforcement.

“As New Jerseyans - and Americans all over the nation - are struggling to make ends meet while the economic recovery continues to take hold, the last thing we need is to create an additional tax burden that will further raise costs and squeeze

the technology that teens have.

The resolution was sent to leaders in Trenton. Amato is hoping to soon be one of them, as he is running for state senate this year.

The issue has led to a lot of strong emotions. In addition to sadness, there has been a lot of rage directed at the staff of Central Regional. Employees have received death threats.

Councilman Thomas Grosse, who is a retired Toms River police officer and whose wife teaches at Central, said that the school district has been painted unfairly by the public and the media.

“There’s no more bullying there than any other district,” he said. “Were there mistakes? Of course.”

A lot of the public had been asking where the police were when Adriana was getting attacked, knowing that there are officers stationed in the school.

“They can’t always be everywhere,” he said. “It’s no fault of the police department.” He said there have been numerous times that the police stopped bad things from happening at the school that you never hear about.

the pocketbooks of hard-working families,” said Sen. Menendez. “This Senate resolution sends a clear message that Senate Democrats from all over the country are standing united in rejecting the misguided approach by House Republicans. Any legislation that cuts vital programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security or raises taxes to the middle class is dead on arrival in the Senate.”

The Senators’ resolution opposes the House Republican proposal to impose a 30 percent sales tax on all goods and services, which would raise prices for hardworking families and seniors. The resolution also supports the passage of a

Police Chief Kevin Santucci said there’s been a misconception that the police weren’t around. They’ve had officers in schools for about a decade and always respond if they are called.

Some residents had questions about whether the council has a liaison to the school districts so they would be kept abreast of situations.

Santucci said the public and even elected officials are not told about issues happening if it involves a juvenile or if it’s an active investigation.

Amato said the majority of the council had been on a board of education and is kept abreast of situations as much as they can legally.

One resident said that she’s bullied by her neighbors in her own senior com-

responsible tax cut to benefit hardworking families and grow the middle class, while ensuring that the ultra-wealthy and billion-dollar corporations pay their fair share.

Alongside Sen. Menendez in cosponsoring the resolution are Sens. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.).

munity.

One parent said that her son was assaulted by a group of students while he was sleeping during the elementary school’s trip to Stokes State Forest several years ago. This same parent noted that sometimes the issue is handled before it gets to the upper administration. For example, there had been a busing issue that was handled within the transportation department and the superintendent and board of education likely never got informed of it.

Councilman James Byrnes shared a horror story of what happened in a district he used to work in that is in another county. “This (expletive deleted) is going on in schools all over New Jersey and we’re going to end it here.”

Senator Robert Menendez

9th Legislative District

Senator Christopher Connors

Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf

Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove

NEED

Garden Club Celebrates Presidents’ Day

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SURF CITY – The Garden Club of LBI’s Youth Garden Club met on February 15 at the Surf City Library to make flower arrangements to take home in honor of President’s Day.

President’s Day was established in 1971 as the third Monday in February and combined the February 12 and February 22 birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and George Washington respectively. This year would have been George Washington’s 291st birthday.

The young floral designers chose red or blue mugs and created patriotic arrangements choosing white chrysanthemums, white carnations, baby’s breath and red

sweet William. Each of these flowers was popular in the United States during Lincoln’s presidency. The unique designs were then topped off with red white and blue pinwheels. To go home, patriotic shutter glasses added to the fun!

The group was led by Garden Club Youth chair Jeannette Michelson and co-chair Ginny Scarlatelli, along with Garden Club members Paula Cofone and Pauline Gertzen.

The next meeting of the Youth Garden Club is on March 15 at 3:30 p.m. at the Surf City Library and will feature a St. Patrick’s Day theme. Admission is free.

Presentation: ‘Americans: A Divided People, Part Two’

SURF CITY – The Ocean County Long Beach Island Branch is pleased to present the second half of a two-part program, “Americans, A Divided People – The Policies, Politicians, and People Who Have Kept Us Together,” 10 a.m. March 11.

John Imperiale, Deputy Mayor of Harvey Cedars, will illustrate how differences of opinion keep our democratic republic strong, vital, and an example for the rest of the world.

Part Two will focus on the coexistence of industrial and agrarian cultures, challenges

posed by immigration, and the impacts of two World Wars, the Great Depression, civil rights, gender (LGBTQ+) rights, women’s rights, and indigenous rights.

A question-and-answer period will follow the program.

Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events to attend this free program, sponsored by Friends of the Island Library. For more information, visit the LBI Branch, 217 South Central Avenue, Surf City, or call 609-494-2480.

Silvio M. Silvi Neil D. Honschke Ralph F. Fedele

– Photo courtesy Garden Club of LBI

Barnegat Schools Celebrate Random Acts Of Kindness Week

BARNEGAT – Barnegat Township School District (BTSD) is embracing love and kindness by giving back to the community and bringing happiness to all. Eager to begin, students didn’t wait for February 13 to start their acts, in fact, some began in January!

Students and staff members at the Robert L. Horbelt Intermediate School started their acts of kindness early this year, with each student receiving five paper hearts. These hearts represent random acts of kindness the students were expected to perform. As students did so, they documented what the act was on the heart and then handed them over to school counselors and homeroom teachers so the hearts could be displayed in hallways and on bulletin boards throughout the school. The goal was to complete 100 random acts by Valentine’s Day - and students crushed that goal. Many of the Barnegat students across the schools did similar projects, all with the goal of spreading more love and positivity across the district. The efforts for Random Acts of Kindness Week were headed by Carolyn Johnson, Ed.S., District Supervisor of Guidance, who saw that students across the district got to do the same challenge as Horbelt using stars, hearts, and more.

“Our students are here in our schools to learn important academic skills and cultivate their creativity, but it is equally important that we teach them about being good people.” said Johnson. “If even just one of these kids learns how much these small acts of goodness can do for others, I’ll be proud, but based on how many students have been participating, our future is looking bright!”

Preschool students at the Lillian M. Dunfee Elementary School shared some smiles by decorating Wawa coffee cup sleeves that were given to the Barnegat Township store on West Bay Avenue. The coffee sleeves decorated by

– Photo courtesy Barnegat School District

the young artists were available at the coffee counter to spread some joy to early morning coffee goers on February 17, Random Acts of Kindness Day.

In another act of kindness, Cecil S. Collins Elementary School students have partnered with Kids for Peace for their “Coins for Our Earth Campaign” which raises money to help clean our oceans. The fundraising started this week and will finish at the end of the month. This campaign aims to teach students that kindness can connect people on a global scale. For every $10 raised, 1 pound of trash is removed from the oceans.

“We hope to teach our students that all acts of kindness, no matter how big or how small, can have a positive impact,” said Dr. Brian Latwis, BTSD Superintendent. “In Barnegat, we believe that it is not only important to talk about being kind, but it is equally as important to model kindness. We want to instill in our students that when they choose to act with kindness, it will inspire those around them to do the same, creating a rippling effect of positivity.”

‘New Jersey’s Troubadour’ Valerie Vaughn To Perform

TUCKERTON – Enjoy original acoustic music that brings dramatic dimension to New Jersey folklore. The Ocean County Library Tuckerton Branch is pleased to present Valerie Vaughn, “New Jersey’s Troubadour,” 6:30 p.m. March 20.

Valerie has performed throughout New Jersey in a distinguished career. Her evocative songs earned the Ocean County Commission’s Special Award, and also the Pine Barrens Festival Award for preserving “the culture, heritage, and natural beauty” of the Pinelands. She has appeared at the Kennedy Center

in Washington, D.C., in televised specials, shared the stage with the legendary Pete Seeger, and thrilled audiences in England with her musical tales.

In addition to performances and dialogues posted on her YouTube channel, Valerie is also featured on the Tuckerton Seaport website and offers courses at the Jersey Shore Folklife Center.

Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events for this free program. For more information, visit the Tuckerton Branch, 380 Bay Avenue, or call 609-296-1470.

BILLY

GARDEN STATE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

CELL 609-661-5470

Ocean County Native Serves With U.S. Navy Helicopter Squadron

By Alysa Riccardi

FORKED RIVER – Chief Petty Officer

Caitlyn Ellingham, a native of Forked River, is serving with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, operating out of San Diego, California.

Their mission is to conduct sea control operations in open-ocean and coastal environments, which includes hunting for submarines, searching for surface targets over the horizon and conducting search and rescue operations.

Ellingham graduated from Lacey Township High School in 2013 and joined the Navy nine years ago.

“I joined because my best friend’s brother-in-law said he could see me in the Navy, so I went to a recruiter and a week later I enlisted. I didn’t go to any other branch, just the Navy,” Ellingham said.

TAX ACCOUNTANT

Manchester Accounting Services – Whiting, NJ 08759

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

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's Degree

Tax preparation experience: 5-7 years

CPA preferred

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Primarily responsible for preparation of 1040 tax returns

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

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

• Tax planning

• Respond to inquiries from the IRS and other tax authorities

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

• Research and consultation on various tax matters

• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

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

PREFERRED SKILLS INCLUDE:

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

• Personable and quick-witted

Please submit resumes including salary requirements –INFO@ManchesterAccountingServices.com

No calls please. EOE

Potential candidates will be contacted to interview.

Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal, Full-time

Salary: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour based on experience

Benefits: Flexible schedule

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

“My mom was a teen mom. Her being so young and raising me, showed me that I can do anything I set my mind to. She taught me to be self-reliant. Any time I think something is hard in the Navy, I think of her and it helps me overcome adversity,” he added. Ellingham serves with the helicopter squadron that flies the U.S. Navy’s MH60R Seahawk helicopters. The MH-60R is a “twin-engine helicopter used for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, drug interdiction, anti-ship warfare, cargo lift, and special operations.”

2023 declares 50 years of women flying in the U.S. Navy. In 1973, the fi rst eight women began flight school in Pensacola; one year later six of them, known as “The First Six,” earned their “Wings of Gold.” Since then, the Navy has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally. “Our women aviators project power from the sea in every type of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aircraft. Our Nation and our Navy is stronger because of their service,” the U.S. Navy stated.

“Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday,

Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

“There are a lot of things the Navy does in the background that people don’t realize we do,” Ellingham said. “The extent of what we do to protect the country is really unknown to most civilians.”

Ellingham explained that her proudest Navy accomplishment is making the rank of chief petty officer in a short time.

“I want the sailors I leave behind to continue my legacy,” she said. “I have met my best friends in my life through the Navy and have become independent because of the Navy. The military has made me the person I am. I don’t know an adult life outside of the Navy because I joined when I was 19. I like being a part of something bigger than myself.”

“I would like to thank my mom. I wouldn’t be here without her. She sent me care packages and supported me throughout my deployments. I would also like to thank my family for their support,” she said.

Schiverea Of Barnegat Earns NFHCA

Academic Honors

BARNEGAT – Shannon Schiverea of Barnegat was one of 15 field hockey student-athletes placed on the NFHCA National Academic Squad while majoring in Forensic Science.

The NFHCA National Academic Squad

program, sponsored by OPA Winning Teams, honors undergraduate collegiate student-athletes like Schiverea who have achieved a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher through the fi rst semester of the current academic year.

–Photo by Lt. Cmdr Ryan Murtha

Wrestling Team Wins Championship

–Photo courtesy Southern Regional MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to the Southern Regional Wrestling team on winning the NJSIAA State Group V Championship by defeating Phillipsburg 41-14 on February 12 at Jersey Mike’s Arena- Rutgers University. Congratulations to the wrestlers, coaches, parents, alumni and fans. This is the 5th State Title in school history.

Lily Spagnola Inducted Into Cedar Crest College Delphi Society

BARNEGAT – Cedar Crest College is happy to announce Lily Spagnola of Barnegat was inducted into the Delphi Society for the Fall 2022 semester in recognition of outstanding academic achievements.

Delphi is the College’s honor society for undergraduate students. Students who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.8 at the end of their junior or senior year are recognized as members.

Upcoming CERT Meeting

WARETOWN – Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), will meet March 8 at the Waretown Fire Academy 7 p.m., 200

Vomunteer Way. Get free training that will help you, your family, and your community! Call Kris: 856-397-0453.

Dualdiagnosisisalargepartoftherecoveryjourneyfor some individuals. Mental health issues and addiction areoftenverydeeplyconnected. Treatingtheunderlyingcauseofbothconditionssimultaneously, inintegratedtreatmentprograms,isthebestapproach.

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

• Have more affordable addiction treatment & care options

INPATIENT REHAB:

• Have full access to doctors, nurses, and medical staff 24 hours a day

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

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

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

4 Ways Hearing & Vision Work Together

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

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

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

function at least three years before their normal-hearing counterparts.

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

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

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

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Take Thyroid Medicine? Don’t Do These 5 Things!

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The treatment of thyroid disease has a long and rich history that spans a century. Natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medicine is made from the thyroid glands of pigs, termed porcine. It was first developed in the late 1800s which was a good thing because, at the time, doctors were transplanting thyroid glands from animals into humans via surgery, which in and of itself was dangerous!

The advent of pills - even those extracted from pig glands - grew in popularity for good reason until the 1950s when synthetic (T4 drugs) became available. Today, both synthetic thyroid hormones and natural NDT drugs remain popular today, however, I have 5 important warnings for you if you take any type of thyroid medication. They are as follows:

1. Don’t Drink Coffee with Your Medicine. Coffee contains compounds called tannins that can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormone in the gut. The tannins bind to the medication like metabolic ‘glue’ and prevent it from being absorbed properly so it doesn’t do its job or obtain proper blood levels. If you take thyroid medication, wait at least 60 minutes after taking your medication before drinking coffee.

2. Don’t Take Calcium Supplements with Your Medicine. Calcium can interfere with the absorption of all thyroid medications whether they are T4 drugs like Synthroid® or NDT drugs like Armour®. If you need to take calcium supplements for other health reasons like a parathyroid condition, osteoporosis, or hypocalcemia, take your medication 3 to 4 hours after

your medicine.

3. Don’t Eat Yogurt with Your Thyroid Medicine. Just like calcium supplements, eating calcium-rich foods right after you take your thyroid medication will interfere with absorption. So don’t take your pill and then eat a bowl of yogurt, a bowl of cereal, or drink a glass of milk! Wait about 3 - 4 hours after you take your medication.

4. Don’t Drink Green Juice with Your Medicine. Some people like to take their thyroid medication, then drink a green juice smoothie. This is almost always going to be a problem! Some examples of goitrogenic foods to eat in moderation include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as well as soy products. Consuming goitrogens in moderation is fine, but don’t overdo it. Goitrogens may contribute to hypothyroidism as well as autoimmune Hashimoto’s flare-ups. This, and much more, is discussed in my book called Thyroid Healthy available on Amazon.

5. Don’t Take Thyroid Medication at Night. Thyroid medication is stimulating. This means that it will speed up your metabolism, burn fat, increase energy levels, and improve hair and nail growth. The best time to take thyroid medication is in the morning when energy is welcome. Take it on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating.

If this topic interests you, I have a longer version of this article posted at my website, as well as some free thyroid ebooks and magazines which I can send as a gift for you to download. To learn more or receive those, visit my website, 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.

How To Fight A Charge For A Prescription Drug DUI

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

Most people know that DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence,” however, many people don’t realize that you can still be convicted of a DUI while being under the influence of legally prescribed drugs. This misperception comes from the fact that many people believe that a DUI is only based on a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). This is actually not true.

In order to receive a DUI charge, the driver must be both: (1) operating/driving a vehicle; and (2) intoxicated or “under the influence.”

According to NJ law, “under the influence” applies to more than alcohol or illegal drugs; it is also applicable to any substance that can cause impairment in a driver, including prescribed or over-the-counter medications. These requirements lead to two different types of DUI charges: “per se” and “impairment.”

Per Se is a Latin term meaning “in itself” or “by itself.” Consequently, a per se violation of law means that the act itself is inherently illegal, without requiring proof of any surrounding circumstances. Thus, a per se DUI occurs if a driver’s BAC is .08% or higher, without needing any further evidence or proof of impairment.

When an individual has no BAC reading, the police must determine whether the driver is mentally and/or physically impaired. In order to do so, the police will typically request that a driver perform a field sobriety test (FST). The FST is designed to assess balance, coordination, and the ability of the driver to divide his attention to more than one task.

Robert C. Shea Esq.

The FST encompasses three (or more) separate tests that include the horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN), the walk-and-turn, and the one-leg stand test. Over the course of time, these tests have been scientifically proven to validate the impairment of individuals “under the influence” of alcohol or drugs.

However, the FST does not distinguish between whether a driver is under the influence of illegal drugs or prescription medications. The FST simply determines whether you are mentally and/or physically impaired, and the source of the impairment is not taken into consideration. Therefore, even if the drug/ medication you are legally prescribed has resulted in your impairment, you could still be charged with a DUI.

Defenses to impairment DUI charges normally focus on providing innocuous explanations for observations the arresting officer attributed to intoxication. For example, providing evidence of physical disabilities to explain poor FST performance. Or, an appearance of intoxication because of nervousness or mental distress. These defenses, and others, considerably help in the plea-bargaining process, and can be considered mitigating circumstance justifying lenient penalties.

If you, or a loved one, are currently suffering through such a situation, the Law Office of R. C. Shea & Associates can provide the legal knowledge and experience required to defend you against such DUI charges, and seek the outcome that has the least adverse impact on your life.

Real Estate

Lakewood 55+ Covington VillageNewer 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; pet friendly, close to beaches, shopping and all major highways; 201 390-7377/Julianne_matskin@yahoo.com (15)

Estate Sale

ESTATE/GARAGE SALE - Toms

River, 230 Cabrillo Blvd. 08757, HC West. Dir: 37 to Bimini. LR, DR, BR furniture, antiques, vintage items, collectibles, clocks, lamps, radios, cameras, china, crystal, glassware, toys, Disney, books, CD’s, DVD’s, VHS, tools, holiday. Too much to list. Cash Only Sat. 3/11/23 9-4. Sun. 3/12/23 9-2. (13)

Super Clean, Beautiful - Greenbriar Blue Moon Estate Sale, Friday, March 17 & 18 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1806 Sweetbay. 609-338-2532. A fun treasure hunt awaits! (12)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

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)

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)

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

Full time Administrative Assistant - Wanted for Adult Community in Whiting. Hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon-Fri. No benefits offered. Must be proficient in Word and Excel. Knowledge of TOPS condo software a plus, but will train. Please fax resume to 732-350-2838. (14)

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

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITE -

Free 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 609-335-0330 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)

Male Companion/Caregiver - To assist you with all your needs except hygiene. All daily routines. Also, companion and helper for those on hospice care. $22/hour. 732-664-2833. (14)

PET SITTER My Home - Reasonable rates. MUST meet pet prior and pet MUST have current inoculations. Call 201-519-4659. (25)

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. (15)

Certified Home Health Aides - Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

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

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (46)

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

Donate your car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business. Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation. Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by! Call 1-833-885-0359. (t/n)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605. (t/n)

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

Services Services Services

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

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

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

Get DIRECTV for $64.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-877-557-1213. (t/n)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-791-2033 or visit dorranceinfo.com/micro. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales •

Auto For Sale • Items For Sale

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks. THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-216-3176. Email: cr@ exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (14)

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

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

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

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

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

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.

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.

F & G AMES S UDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

31 Creme Egg candymaker

35 Hearty holiday drink

36 *Body-lifting exercises

37 Spigot

40 Ambushed

41 Corn Belt tower

42 Storybook brutes

45 Tracks down

47 *Veers from the straight and narrow 51 Pet rabbit’s home

52 Wallop 53 Feel crummy

54 Carpenter’s clamp

55 Source of milk for pecorino cheese

56 Dieting advice, and what the answers to the starred clues literally do 60 Time zone word: Abbr.

61 Dined at a bistro, say 62 Nerd 63 That lady

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

33 Construct 34 Bun, e.g. 36 Wine barrel 37 Giggled self-consciously 38 Smart __: knowit-all 39 Swanky 40 Like disappointing coffee 41 McMuffin meat option 42 Think too much (about) 43 Old-__ forest

44 Ebb

46 Rather smart

48 Cook in some olive oil, say

49 Tugs at a fishing line

50 Choir section

54 November honorees

56 Pic taker

57 Shade on a color wheel

58 Plead

59 Big __ Country

CROSSWORD PUZZLE S UDOKU

Whale: Continued From Page 1

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association said this whale’s death might have been caused by getting hit by a boat. NOAA has said that there’s no direct link to the wind turbines being built off New Jersey’s shore. As climate changes, animals move to places where they can survive better. In this case, the whales’ prey has moved closer to shore, which means that the whales will follow them, and be closer to humans. They said 40% of the whales have had evidence of boat strikes or entanglement.

DeVoe and other concerned citizens spoke, as did Cindy Zipf of Clean Ocean Action, Bonnie Brady of the Center for Sustainable Fisheries, Point Beach Mayor Paul Kanitra, Seaside Park Mayor John Peterson, and Congressmen Jefferson Van Drew (R-2nd) and Chris Smith (R-4th).

The whale population has been growing, and the waters are more clean than they’ve been, DeVoe said. “How can we go backwards now?”

Recently, a letter was signed by 30 mayors all along the coast calling for an immediate

moratorium on all offshore wind activity pending a thorough investigation by federal and state authorities. The officials represent the communities of Atlantic Highlands, Avon by the Sea, Barnegat Light, Bay Head, Beach Haven, Berkley, Brick, Brielle, Brigantine, Deal, Harvey Cedars, Linwood, Little Egg Harbor, Long Beach Township, Mantoloking, Margate City, North Wildwood, Ocean City, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach, Sea Girt, Seaside Park, Ship Bottom, Spring Lake, Stafford, Stone Harbor, Toms River, Ventnor City, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest.

According to the letter, they are concerned that the acoustic surveys used in the windmill process could damage their senses which would hurt their feeding and migration.

The environmentalist have strange bedfellows in conservative politicians, at least with this topic. Some right wing commentators have posted conspiracy theories that the scientific community is covering up whale deaths to advance windmills. This has led to some marine mammal groups receiving threats, according to a Time article published the day before Valentine’s Day.

Township Seeking Volunteers For Senior Board

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – Little Egg Harbor

Township is in need of volunteers for the Senior Citizens Advisory Board. Residents interested in volunteering can send a letter of interest

and resume to Little Egg Harbor Township, Attention: Mayor and Committee Members, 665 Radio Road, Little Egg Harbor Township, NJ, 08087 or email to clerk@leht.com.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

A peaceful sunshine along the Barnegat Bay in Ocean County, captured by Olivia Bauso and shared with us on our Jersey Shore Online Public Forum on Facebook. Want to see your photos in this space? Email them to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

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

Boys Indoor Track Team Wins Championship

Boys Bowling Team Win Sectional Championship

MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to the Southern Regional Boys Bowling team on winning the 2022-2023 NJSIAA South Jersey Group IV Sectional Championship on February 11.

Special congratulations to Southern Regional Bowler Alex Henbest on qualifying for the NJSIAA Individual Championships. This is the second sectional title in school history under Coach Salvatore. The Rams also won the title in the 2019-2020 season. Congratulations to the bowlers, Coach Salvatore, parents, alumni, and fans.

Rebirth Radio Program

–Photo courtesy Southern Regional MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to the Southern Regional Boys Indoor Track team on winning the NJSIAA SJ Group IV Sectional Championship on February 12 at the Bennett Indoor Athletic Complex in Toms River. Congratulations to the athletes, coaches, parents, alumni, and fans.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of mar 4 - mar 10

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Try not to lose focus; When it comes to navigating your life, a positive outlook and sincerity may be your best tools. This could be a wonderful time to be generous with your praise and thoughtful with your advice.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : You may find your aspirations grow stronger as the week unfolds. Hone your skills with diligent practice even if you are your own harshest critic. You should be well rewarded for every job done to the best of your ability.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Trust in friends and loved ones to listen when you discuss your goals and issues. This might not be the time to obtain a firm promise, but you may gain the support and understanding of others.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : An argument could cause hurt feelings. A key relationship may settle down and become less challenging if you work to avoid confrontations and remain patient. Try not to read too much into an innocent gesture.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): When you are enthusiastic about innovative ideas, there may be a tendency to make broad over-generalizations. You might want to avoid making promises that are well meant but could be hard to fulfill. The wisest people may offer the best counsel.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Making your mark in the material world could seem like a game to you. You may find yourself growing more ambitious. Using your charm and your common sense, you could develop successful strategies to reach your goals.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If your committed relationship needs a little extra attention, offer it. If single, you could have the desire to tell someone about your feelings. Embrace your braver side and put yourself out there.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It’s always best for you to be sincere about what you do and do not say. It could be especially important when you are performing a job. Your coworkers might be depending on you to hold up your end of the bargain.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Good vibes may lead to victory, so allow yourself to get caught up in the rhythm of a project. You may remain upbeat and recharge your inner batteries by enjoying some indoor entertainment or a nature walk in the park.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : Turn the kudos you can earn into cash. You could fill a quota or reach a milestone by being dedicated and persistent. There could still be time to perform favors and charitable deeds for loved ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Applying restraint and humility could put you on top if you face criticism from your boss or someone else. You can combat negativity by admitting mistakes and being committed to putting your best self on display. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You might want more than you can afford currently or feel you must be competitive. Remain contented with what you may already have. Trying to keep up with affluent trends may put you in a deficit and leave a dent in your wallet.

THIS CHEESY BEAN BAKE IS FAMILY-FRIENDLY

By America’s Test Kitchen

CHEESY BEAN AND TOMATO BAKE

(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.