TOMS RIVER – With the topic of bullying
receiving a strong focus these days, a township firefighter - and now author - has just released his first children’s book, “Sprinkles the Fire Dog” which will provide a lesson to young readers.
The story itself however has been kicking around for quite some time and Frank Viscuso partnered with Canon and JPS Graphics to
TRENTON – The state’s School Ethics Commission dismissed charges by formal resolution last month filed against a member of the Freehold Regional Board of Education and a Howell Township school board member.
Former Howell Deputy Mayor Pamela “Pam”
Richmond lodged charges against Marc Parisi, a Freehold Regional school board member, and Ira Thor, who serves on the Howell Township Board of Education. Richmond, who represented herself, filed the complaint in early November 2022. The eight-page decision rendered by the School Ethics Commission included a summary of the
documents submitted in the matter. The basis for the allegations focuses on social media posts purportedly made in violation of New Jersey’s Code of Ethics for School Board Members. Richmond identified Parisi and Thor as “two of the five founders” of a political activist group
(Members - See Page 3)
Toms
“Sprinkles the Fire Dog.” produce and print the motivational children’s book. It was printed using Canon’s varioPRINT iX-series.
The plot of the book centers around a puppy who dreams of one day becoming a fire dog and must overcome physical limitations and his own self-doubt to turn those dreams into a reality.
Viscuso spoke with The Toms River Times about his passion for
author,
raising awareness. “I actually started writing when I became the training officer for the Kearny Fire Department. I did some public relations articles and I also worked on policies and procedures but it wasn’t creative writing.
“That is kind of where it started. I write about stuff that I am passionate about. In regards to bullying, when I think about being bullied as a kid, I don’t think I was
bullied any more or any less than the average person,” Viscuso said. “Bullying is unwanted aggressive behavior, mostly among school children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. I naturally had an inferiority complex and because I had that, the perceived power imbalance was always there. So, if someone talked down to me, or was rude, it wasn’t a physical type
of bullying - it was a feeling like I just didn’t belong,” he added. The writer said, “that plus being an over thinker just led to some stress and anxiety. I often tell people I was a prisoner in my own mind when I was younger. Basically, I was the character in the book, Sprinkles the Fire Dog. I had a lot of that going on in my life that I felt I was undersized, didn’t belong and (Book - See Page 2)
By Alyssa RiccardiHOWELL – With a mission to stop further development, Monmouth County along with the Township of Howell has announced the preservation of the Linney farm. Located on Five Points Road in Howell, the 25.9-acre parcel sits north of Route 33 near the border of Freehold.
On February 23, Howell Township partnered with the County and State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) and contributed just under $100,000 for the preservation. The purchase restricts any further development and ensures that the land will be permanently devoted to agricultural use.
“We are happy to be part of these transactions and to preserve farmland within the Township. The Farmers Advisory Committee (FAC) and Preservation Task Force are always working with the County and State to find and help preserve farmland,” said Matthew Howard, Director of
(Farmland - See Page 2)
Continued From Page 1 didn’t fit in.”
“I wrote Sprinkles more than 20 years ago. I was just home one day and it was one of the fi rst stories I had ever written. Since then, I’ve had 10 books published. This is my fi rst children’s book. It was just the story that popped into my head and I wrote it. The fi rst draft was not very good and I
guess I sensed that so I didn’t really try to do anything with it,” Viscuso said.
“I ended up becoming an author in the fi re service. I’ve done promotional books and several leadership and team development books and with that you meet people along your journey. I met an artist who is also a fi refighter called Paul Combs. He is a tremendous artist.”
“After getting to know him and working with him on another project I said ‘would you
ever be interested in illustrating a children’s book’ because he is incredibly talented. Then I shared the story with him,” he added. The story of Sprinkles concerns “this little puppy from a big city wants to become a fire dog but his biggest challenge isn’t just his self-doubt but the corner mutts who bully him and what attracted Paul is that he said, ‘I have corner mutts in my life too. The ones that sit on the corner and bark and make you feel like you can’t ever accomplish
anything,’” Viscuso said.
“He said ‘some of my corner mutts are in my own head. It is my own self doubt and limiting beliefs.’ He actually illustrated the character who was this little dog and he brought it to life. We went to our publisher who we both had gone to before and partnering with Canon and the right team can help you accomplish your dream.”
Viscuso said the partnership had worked “and will continue to work as we have more projects coming out. It worked for Paul who was very particular. When he illustrates his cartoons the quality and color pop off the page just as they do off his computer. It is an absolutely stunning book.
“For years I’ve gone to schools to speak, the schools my boys go to and given classes on fi re safety especially during fi re prevention week. I would always read a story to them as well. One year I went in and read them Sprinkles, six years before it was actually a book, it was just a manuscript and I said to my wife recently that I need to go back and show them the actual book and how they can work to take something creative and make it real,” he added.
One of Viscuso’s three boys came to his school during a “Dress As Your Favorite Book Character Day” event, “and my youngest surprised me by dressing as Sprinkles the Fire Dog.”
Continued From Page 1
Community Development and Land Use Officer of Howell Township.
Over the past 10 years, Howell has lost over 150 farms. With the constant development of warehouses and complexes, the open space and farmland in Howell continue to decrease. With residents voicing their concerns, the town and county are taking action with their own Farmland Preservation Plan. The acquisition of Linney farm is part of a major plan to maintain and protect farmland not only in Howell but throughout the County. “Monmouth County is committed to its agricultural roots and this is an example of that commitment,” said Thomas A. Arnone, Director of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners. “The farm is an important connector to other conservation lands in Howell and Freehold townships. The Linney family also owns the preserved Lynwick Gardens property down the street. There are now over 15,730 acres of preserved farmland in the county.”
To learn more about the County’s farmland preservation efforts and its agricultural economy, you can view the latest Monmouth County Farmland Preservation Plan at visitmonmouth.com.
In Howell Township, members of the FAC and the Preservation Task Force will be holding an Open Public Meeting to present the Comprehensive Farmland Preservation Plan Element to Howell Township’s Master Plan. The meeting will be held on March 23 at 6:30 p.m. and will discuss preserving natural resources, open space and agricultural foundation.
For more information, visit twp.howell. nj.us/286/Farmers-Advisory-Committee or email howellfac@twp.howell.nj.us.
Continued From Page 1
called “Howell NJ First.” The group’s Facebook page has over 3,400 followers and states that it is a community organization of “residents putting Howell First and ahead of personal and political agendas.”
In October 2022, Richmond said she visited the Howell NJ First page and noted “they have publically (sic) endorsed political candidates.” She viewed the endorsements as a violation of the law that prohibits school board members from surrendering their “independent judgment to special interest or partisan political groups…or to use the schools for personal gain or for the gain of friends.”
The complaint further alleged Parisi and Thor disregarded the section of the school ethics code regarding making decisions related to students regardless of their “ability, race, creed, sex, or social standing.” Richmond claimed both individuals breached their obligation to “make no personal promises nor take any private action that may compromise” their respective boards.
Both Parisi and Thor acknowledged their participation in the Howell NJ First group, which they emphasized was separate and apart from their roles as school board members. Notably, the political candidate endorsement posts bore the group’s name rather than the identity of either individual charged with violating the ethics code. “There is absolutely no evidence that either Respondent Parisi and/or Respondent
Thor personally or individually endorsed certain candidates running for Howell Council,” wrote the Commission in its decision. “Instead, the evidence submitted by Complainant uncontrovertibly affi rms that ‘Howell NJ First’ endorsed certain candidates.”
The Commission further stated that the perception that the endorsements came from either school board member in their official capacities was therefore negated.
“Ms. Richmond has been on a malicious crusade against me since 2021,” said Parisi. “She has wasted taxpayer money sending (Open Public Records Act) requests for information about me as a Board Member.”
“Most troubling, she tried to get me fi red from my job as a state worker by fi ling a complaint with the NJ Dept of Labor that I unlawfully obtained personal information about her on state and federal databases, then shared this information on social media,” Parisi continued. “A thorough investigation revealed I had never accessed her information, and the complaint was closed as unsubstantiated.”
Parisi pointed out that the school ethics complaint also cost taxpayers more money even though it was ultimately dismissed. He said he did not forfeit his personal freedoms of speech or association when he became a Board member.
“It should concern every American when an elected official tries to silence private citizens in the manner Ms. Richmond has gone after me and others,” added Parisi. Richmond additionally accused Thor
separately of charges “he repeatedly bullied, insulted, disrespected and disparaged her on multiple social media posts.”
To support her allegations, Richmond said Thor posted that she was “a vile, disgusting, despicable piece of human fi lth and said that if [she] was on fi re on the side of the road, he would not even pee on [her] to put out the fl ames.”
Thor said his comments had nothing to do with his position on the Howell Township School Board. He cited his First Amendment rights to publicly speak out against Richmond, saying the two disagree on both a personal and political basis.
“Even if Respondent Thor’s comments on social media about Complainant were patently offensive, insolent and unabashedly crude, and contrary to proper civility and decorum,” wrote the Commission, “there is no evidence from which a reasonable member of the public could perceive his comments as being in his official capacity or on behalf of the Board.”
Thor emphasized that he is a lifelong Republican and, therefore, a member of the same political party as Richmond. He said he had never even had a conversation with Richmond until he supported another council candidate in last year’s Republican primary.
According to Thor, he became especially alarmed when his and another board member’s home addresses suddenly appeared on a public forum that he believed to be run by Richmond and others.
“It is my First Amendment right to speak
out against bullies,” said Thor. “I will always defend myself or others against people, especially those who are in influential positions, who mistreat others, and use social media as a means to infl ict harm. This type of behavior needs to stop.”
Parisi and Thor were represented by separate legal counsel to respond to the allegation, who asked for a dismissal of the complaints against them. Both individuals requested Richmond be imposed with sanctions, saying her complaint was a “frivolous fi ling” made in bad faith.
The School Ethics Commission found Richmond had not provided sufficient credible evidence to support her ethical code charges against either Parisi or Thor. No sanctions were imposed upon Richmond as the Commission found her complaint was not frivolous.
Attorneys’ fees for both Parisi and Thor were afforded by their respective districts.
“People need to realize that when they make a complaint because of a personal or political vendetta, they are selfi shly hurting the people of their own community by wasting taxpayer dollars,” said Thor. “In a time where the state is taking funds from our district due to the S-2 legislation, actions like this hurt our children and families.”
S-2 is a law that changed how schools are funded, and it pulled millions of dollars in state aid away from some local districts. Richmond responded to a request for comment, but unfortunately, no connection was made prior to this story going to press.
It’s impossible that photos of magnificent, beautiful whales lying dead on beaches couldn’t elicit strong emotional reactions from those who view them. Stories that carry sadness and anger are far more likely to be shared with others, and everyone can agree that no one wants tragedies like this to happen: the whales need to be helped at all costs. But it is extremely important we don’t allow our emotional reactions to dictate our decisions. We should separate feelings from facts.
In much of the coverage
I’ve read, there’s mention of some environmental groups who are demanding an immediate halt of off-
Shouldn’t
In the recent craziness surrounding the state’s new sex education policy, some parents are deciding to take matters into their own hands. This is one of those things you should leave to the professionals.
The parents want to be the ones to tell their children about sensitive materials. I can get behind this in theory. But there’s a difference between theory and reality. The reality is, they won’t really do it. They’ll say they want to have these conversations, but they really won’t. The kids will make it to adulthood without
shore wind development, and other environmental groups who support the development with no stops because there’s no evidence of it causing the deaths. What I haven’t read a lot of is about the quantity of groups on both sides.
I find it incredibly admirable to see journalists give both sides of an issue an equal voice to present neutral coverage without bias, especially for political and community issues. With scientific issues however, facts must be proven. Although it hurts to see this issue happening right on our own shores, I believe most could agree that the majority of people reading on the current topic aren’t professionally trained biologists, bioacousticians
or whale experts. Neither are the journalists. Politicians and the fossil fuel industry bank on this, because public misunderstanding leads to doubting the facts.
While I have no doubt that the few environmental groups who are against the off shore development have the best of intentions and already do so much for the whales, it’s important to note the quantity of environmental groups who ARE for the offshore wind development with no stops: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Mammal Commission, Clean Water Action, Environment New Jersey, The Sierra Club, New Jersey Audubon are just some…and many of
these organizations link to their open letter of support of ongoing development, with proof and explanation of why the surveying isn’t harmful, on their websites or social media. There has been NO proof by the opposing side that the surveys hurt the whales, and all the proof that there are already known killers to whales (climate change, vessel strikes, plastic and entanglement). Research shows that seismic blasting, which goes kilometers into the ocean floor, kills marine life - that’s used by the Navy and oil boats. What’s being used right now for the wind development uses geophysical survey (all sonar, no air gun, only goes a few hundred meters), is emitted in short
pulses, and isn’t even audible by some marine species. Science isn’t a popularity contest or mere difference of opinion: science is based on evidence. To support a viewpoint with no evidence due to how badly we want to not kill anymore whales is deeply misguided and dangerous. Whale deaths have been on the rise for 7 years. Why would certain politicians, who are the greatest recipients of oil and gas companies’ lobbying expenditures, only start caring about the whales exactly when the offshore development started? The rise in whale deaths has been going on since 2016. As just another whale-lover whose not a scientist and invested in this ongoing
issue, I wholeheartedly believe readers expressing their pleas of stopping the development have the best of intentions. Clean energy is not something the public should be driven against. Deploying low-carbon energy sources like offshore wind combats global warming: a proven threat to whales. What would be really sad is allowing more harm to whales and other marine life due to emotional reactions, misinformation, and believing politicians who are using environmentalism for their personal gain over scientists who genuinely care.
Sara Zorns Layout Designerever knowing things because the parents don’t want their kids to know about sex.
Well guess what? Sexual assault happens to young kids, and if you don’t teach your kids that certain touching is bad they might never know. The world is a scary place and parents trying to protect children from this scary place are just helping them become victims. The parents decided thought they knew more than the teachers.
Everyone in the world who has ever gotten “the talk” knows just how awkward and bad it is. Parents don’t know what to say and they don’t tell you everything you really need to know. Some people never even get “the talk.”
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Imagine if everything you ever learned about sex came from your parents? It’s a hilarious thought but that’s exactly what’s going on all around us. Because the politicians and parents are too scared to have icky conversations or acknowledge that gay people exist, generations of kids are going to grow up without knowing anything more than the basics of sex ed. Does the average parent know about all of the sexually transmitted diseases? How they represent? How to treat them? Do they know how to teach children about sexual violence and bad relationships? Maybe, but are they going to teach them anything other than abstinence? Do they know enough about biology to be able to tell their kids what’s really happening in their bodies? What are they going to do if their child feels different than others? If the parent is against schools even acknowledging that there’s such a thing as homosexuality than they probably will treat their gay kid horribly. Their gay kid will probably keep it a secret, and move out the first chance they get.
Parents shouldn’t protect their kids so much that they become soft and stupid. These same parents are going to be the ones complaining that kids
aren’t tough enough.
Melanie Dwyer Toms River
I just wanted to thank you for your most recent editorial (“When The Media Descended On Central Regional” on March 4) about the vicious public attack (fueled by the media) on Central Regional. The reputation of that school has been unfairly damaged by what many would consider INCREDIBLY irresponsible reporting and journalism.
After this recent string of events, I am now very hesitant to believe just about ANYTHING I read online or through the local news outlets. It was a breath of fresh air to finally read something that MADE SENSE and that acknowledges the fact that there is a LOT missing from the original story. It is heavily one sided and completely void of many facts, much background, and a ton of details. Your article may never be able to repair the damage that has been done to that school district but I thank you for the article and its intent nonetheless.
Are generation gaps naturally divisive, or are they nurtured to achieve a more nefarious goal?
There are seven living generations in America. I’ve come to the conclusion that naming of generations has meaning and seems to be subtly demeaning for each subsequent generation. The Greatest speaks for itself having vaulted the USA to the world’s first super power, its status unchallenged.
Next comes the Silent generation forever in the shadows but having reaped the most benefit America has enjoyed. They were followed by the Baby Boomers who broke the mold becoming the original radicals challenging the establishment, and sparked the sexual revolution. For all their differences these generations all maintained an America first mentality and work ethic.
Then come the X,Y,Z generations as though in a countdown to chaos. The Gen Xers came in under the shadow of the Boomers yet still maintained the patriot fervor and work ethic even as the China factor emerged. Next are the Y/Millennials, the original entitled “me generation,” many of whom have adopted the mentality the world somehow owes them a living without
sacrifice. The Zers are the first lost generation, with the last in the alphabet status, without a catchy name they seem mired in hopelessness with studies showing 75% of them feeling they have been handed a raw deal, the last vestige of American exceptionalism, as globalism looms. Lastly are the Alphas, yet to come of age but are being indoctrinated and primed to adopt the New World Order of so called Democratic Socialism as if such a thing can even exist.
Seven generations living in a precarious harmony. Liberty has been the common thread yet is in mortal danger. The New World Order has gained much power during this era, with deceitful definitions of safety and freedom through equity and claims of promoting the “general welfare.”
Power derived through division of the populace has been the method of socialism through the ages, always resulting in violence and death of the innocent.
247 years ago America made a 5,000 year leap away from the oligarchies toward individual liberty. We must resolve our differences to reignite the brush fires of freedom as one Greatest Generation, resolute in saving our American culture and in turn humanity.
James M Spickard Little Egg HarborRobert
W.Singer
30th Legislative DistrictTRENTON – New Jersey lawmakers representing Monmouth and Ocean counties weighed in on the budget unveiled by Gov. Phil Murphy calling for reinvestment to directly benefit all residents as a recession looms.
Murphy highlighted a budget surplus
of more than $10 billion during his annual state budget message, nearly double from the previous year.
“It is not common for a governor to have billions at his disposal, much less two years in a row,” said Sen. Robert Singer (R-30th). “Governor Murphy had the opportunity last year to ease many residents’ economic concerns by giving that money back to the people. Instead, he has chosen to double-down on a deeply flawed ANCHOR program, which many residents have yet to see any relief.”
Residents are still waiting to receive ANCHOR checks from the budget passed in July. The deadline was initially Dec. 31, but after below expected participation the deadline was extended to Jan. 31 and again to Feb. 28.
“This tremendous surplus should be used prudently,” said Assemblyman Sean Kean (R-30 th). “With inflation and increasing costs for gas, health insurance, and supplies, there are many school districts that could greatly benefit from this surplus.”
Assemblyman Ned Thomson (R-30th) also said that this trend of multibillion-dollar surpluses may be a sign of a bigger issue,
citing the over collection of taxes as the likely culprit.
“While the Governor touts this surplus as a sign of a strong foundation, it is unfortunately a sign of over-taxation,” Thomson continued. “Recent studies show that a staggering majority of businesses believe New Jersey is somewhat or entirely unaffordable. The resulting mass exodus of residents and businesses is a drain on our state’s prosperity and talent. Governor Murphy must prioritize the residents and businesses of New Jersey with this budget surplus and provide the long overdue relief they have been pleading for.”
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy and Acting Education Commissioner Angelica Allen-McMillan highlighted the $20.5 billion in the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget proposal to support New Jersey schools. This funding will help grow New Jersey’s education workforce, support academic recovery, increase the availability of college-level courses in high schools, and advance the Governor’s goal of reaching universal pre-K.
The proposed budget will provide historic levels of School Aid, with an increase in $1 billion over the prior year for a total of $20.5 billion in school funding. This amount includes pre-K funding, pension and benefits funding for school staff, and an increase in $832 million in total K-12 formula aid. District allocations of state aid are available on the DOE’s School Finance webpage.
“My Administration remains committed to providing students throughout our state with the world-class education they deserve,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Ensuring equitable access to high-quality education not only prepares our children for successful futures – it benefits us in the here and now. Investments in education represent investments in working families, school communities, and so much more. This year’s budget proposal demonstrates our ongoing
commitment to working towards fully funding our schools, expanding pre-K throughout the state, growing our educator workforce, and promoting the success of our students.”
The FY 2024 budget proposal marks the sixth year of the seven-year phase-in to fully funding New Jersey’s school funding formula, established under P.L. 2018, c. 67 (S-2). New Jersey’s school funding formula is designed to address inequities and meet the needs of growing districts. By adding $832 million in K-12 formula aid, the Governor is proposing to maintain the phase-in as planned for FY2024.
In addition, the Governor proposes $20 million in Stabilization Aid to help districts that are experiencing a reduction in State aid or are otherwise facing a budgetary imbalance.
The FY2024 budget includes an increase of nearly $110 million in pre-K funding compared to the prior year, for a total of $1.1 billion. The increased funding includes $40 million to expand high-quality full-day programs into new districts and support other preschool expansion needs, such as workforce development.
Since Governor Murphy took office, high-quality preschool programs have been introduced to over 160 school districts, opening seats for more than 12,000 additional children. Recent federal funding announced by the Administration also included $120 million in preschool facilities funding to help expand preschool infra-
structure throughout the state.
In concert with the launch of the New Jersey Partnership for Student Success last year – which will continue to recruit coaches and mentors to accelerate student learning in FY2024 – the Governor is announcing additional funding for the recently-announced high-impact tutoring and RAPID learning acceleration professional development initiatives.
The Administration has already committed over $20 million in State and federal funding for these programs. The Governor is now proposing an additional $10 million in ARP State Fiscal Recovery Funds for the tutoring program and a continued commitment of $2 million for professional development in the FY2024 budget.
In addition, the Governor’s budget proposal includes $1 million for the expansion of Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in New Jersey, as well as $500,000 for wraparound supports and additional class offerings for students in Dual Enrollment (DE) courses in New Jersey, which will allow our students to take more college-level courses in high school to better prepare them for higher education.
The expansion of these courses will be targeted to help students from low-income communities by increasing their opportunities to gain college credit in high school –making a higher education more accessible to students who may not have previously felt college was within their reach. These targeted expansions are based on recommendations from the Wealth Disparity Task Force.
As part of the Administration’s ongoing efforts to address the shortage of educators in New Jersey – an issue currently seen around the nation – the Governor also proposes over $20 million in new investments and other supports to help ensure our state has the trained and dedicated workforce necessary
to provide top-quality education to public school students.
This includes $10 million in stipends to support student teachers while they work and study, and $5 million to waive certification fees in an effort to help bring more qualified and diverse individuals into the education profession.
An additional $2 million will go towards a Culture and Climate Innovation Grant opportunity to help districts support educator quality of life, while $1 million will go towards a public awareness campaign to help encourage interest in teaching and raise the profile of the education profession. $1 million in funding will aim to develop local partnerships to help train paraprofessionals and offer tuition assistance to those seeking to become teachers.
Similarly, the budget proposal includes $800,000 for a teacher apprenticeship program and maintains funding for the Men of Color Hope Achievers program and the Minority Teacher Development program to help support a diverse educator workforce.
Municipal aid and school aid funding combined represent more than 42% of the entire FY2024 budget proposal. This funding will not only help schools keep up with rising costs, but will ultimately help keep property taxes from significantly increasing.
Additional highlights include: $80 million for capital maintenance and emergent needs in traditional school districts and charter schools; $250 million for Schools Development Authority projects, drawing from the $1.9 billion appropriated to Schools Development Authority (SDA) from the Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund last year; $3 million to implement a community schools pilot program; and a continuation of $420 million in funding to support Extraordinary Special Education aid that helps defray the cost of educating students in special education classes.
HOWELL – Meet other chamber members, network with local businesses, share what’s happening with your business and any upcoming events/promotions.
Join the Howell Chamber of Commerce at their next Breakfast Bonanza Networking event on March 14 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Big City Bagels, Route 9, Aldrich Road, Howell. Cost to attend is $7 for members, $14 for
not yet members, whether you eat or not (cash only). Includes coffee/tea and a bagel with butter or cream cheese. If you wish to order a different item, you will have a $6 credit (the additional $1 is gratuity for staff ) and you pay the restaurant the difference over $6. Not yet members are welcome to attend up to two Chamber meetings/events.
HOWELL – Join in and welcoming the 2023 Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad #1 Cadet Corps. Executive Board:
President: Samantha Ngo
Vice president: Isabella Novera
Secretary: Henry Dong
Treasurer: Shawn McCarthy
Congratulations to the Cadet Officers! The Cadet Corp. is made up of young men
and women from the ages of 14 to 17 that have the urge to answer the call for help. They offer all in-house training, including CPR. Cadets are also given opportunities to attend EMT class to further their education. If you, or anyone you know, has interest in an exciting hobby in the world of EMS, stop by their building for an application or visit their website at: htfars.org and click on “CADETS.”
HOWELL – The clinic is open to both girls and boys and will provide drills to improve footwork, speed and agility, and position-specific skills. Players will have the opportunity to participate in one-on-one drills and team games to enhance communication, teamwork, skills and promote
healthy competition. This clinic is for the payers looking to take their game to the next level while having fun. Please have all players wear cleats and bring their own water bottle with their name on it. Please go to the field in the back of the building. Register at howellpal.org.
HOWELL – Howell Middle Schools North players present: Shrek The Musical. Show dates are March 17 at 7 p.m. and March 18 at 5 p.m. Tickets are $10; children under 3 are
free. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. For tickets or more information, contact Christina Grego CGrego@howell. k12.nj.us.
RAMTOWN – Ramtown Fire Company’s 7th annual Golf Outing will be on May 1 at Pebble Creek Golf Course in Colts Neck. Registration starts at 7:30
a.m. Breakfast and lunch included with lots of door prizes. $130 per person. Call 732-458-0222 for more information.
HOWELL – Kylie Gudewitz, Howell High School’s fi rst girl to wrestle boys varsity, won 1st place in girls Shore Conference, 1st
Place in girls Regions, and took 3rd place in the NJ girls State Finals. She went 17-1 in the girls division. She is only a freshman!
HOWELL – Howell Middle School South presents: High School Musical On Stage! Show dates are March 31 at 7 p.m. and April 1 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at HMSS.BOOKTX.com.
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HOWELL – The Howell Department of Public Works has announced the spring 2023 Brush Collection Schedule.
Brush collection will begin April 10, weather permitting. Place all brush curbside no later than May 15. After this date, one fi nal collection will be made per zone, until all sections of the Township have been completed.
Only brush/tree trimmings will be collected. No leaves. Leaves can be brought to the Township Recycling Center located at 278 Old Tavern Road. The Recycling Center is open 7 days a week, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
(except holidays)
Please adhere to the following guidelines: Stacked against curb with all butt ends facing the same direction.
Maximum size: 6” in diameter and 8’ in length. No stumps.
Maximum volume: equal to one pickup truck load. Additional brush can be dropped off at the Recycling Center. No leaves.
For more information, contact the Department of Public Works, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 732-938-4500 ext. 2450 or visit twp.howell.nj.us.
HOWELL – The Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad #1 are calling all golfers, whether you’ve never played before or can qualify for the PGA.
The HTFARS#1 is proud to announce that they are hosting their 3rd Annual Golfi ng. They will be at a new location on April 21 at the Pebble Creek Golf Club in Colts Neck. Past years’ events were a huge success. This year they are hoping for the same
HOWELL – Join a Park System Naturalist for these laid-back morning bird walks on May 23 at 9 a.m. at the Manasquan Reservoir.
We’ll meander through the parks for about an hour and a half to see what birds we can fi nd. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy these walks. A limited
outcome so if you are going to, register fast! They take and welcome all players. It’s a great event for an even better cause.
If you have interest in playing, donations or sponsorships towards the event, feel free to reach out. For any questions or inquires reach out to Htfarsgolfouting@gmail.com or 732-378-9344. Don’t forget about the BBQ afterwards which will be held at the course!
HOWELL – Clinic will stress individual self-improvement drills, competitions, and games!
Clinic will be taught by Coach Ribon, Middle School North Field Hockey Coach and Coach Johnson, Middle School South Field
number of binoculars will be available to borrow if needed.
Participants should expect to be walking a few miles (2 to 4) on sometimes uneven or muddy terrain. We will go even with light rain or snow so please come dressed for the weather with appropriate footwear. Meet in the Visitor Center parking area.
Hockey Coach. If you have any questions, reach out to Coach Johnson at sjohnson@ howell.k12.nj.us
Girls will need to bring sneakers/cleats, shin guards, mouth guard, stick and goggles. Register online at howellpal.com.
HOWELL – The Township of Howell presents Easter In The Park on March 25 at Oak Glen Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Come enjoy a family fun event featuring egg hunts, music, games, food, face painting, petting zoo and a special guest
appearance from the Easter Bunny! Egg hunt times are as followed:
• Ages 5 & under – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Ages 6 to 7 – 12:30 p.m.
• Ages 8 to 10 – 1 p.m.
FRHSD scholarship applications will be completed online using the FRHSD Scholarship
Application Platform. Please note that all scholarship applications must be completed online. The deadline for scholarship applications is March 31, at 3 pm. Visit frhsd.com to apply!
– The Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Team Challenge event for all six Freehold Regional High School District schools. The purpose of the Team Challenge is to provide local high school students with hands-on experience in team building, creative problem solving and dealing with the ethical decision-making process within the context of real-world business problems. Using the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics framework from Santa Clara University, teams from the high schools explored business issues that have complex ethical implications.
The Chamber also offers participating students the chance to apply for a $500
scholarship. This year’s recipients are Brielle Bravaco from Colts Neck High School and Sayuri Shree from Freehold High School. Both young ladies were recognized at a small reception on February 22, 2023. Congratulations!
MANALAPAN – Three juniors from Manalapan High School participated in the Monmouth County School Partnership for Wellness Symposium Student Panel at Brookdale Community College on February 23. Ava Gabinelli, Grace DeFendis, and Marc Stefanelli were asked to sit on the panel which discussed the importance of mental health and wellness through a student lens.
Each student is an active member of
their school community. Ava Gabinelli started Athletes Supporting Strong Minds, a mental health club for athletes that Supervisor of Extracurricular Activities
Beth English facilitates. Grace DeFendis works with school counselor Vanessa Sica on the “Begin Your Bloom” group, which focuses on communication without judgment and spreading kindness. Marc Stefanelli serves as a Shore Conference Student Ambassador.
NEPTUNE – Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center recently celebrated the opening of a new, specialized Pulmonary Hypertension Center. The outpatient center, the only of its kind in Monmouth and Ocean counties, provides patients with comprehensive services to diagnose and treat the disease.
Pulmonary hypertension is a serious, underdiagnosed disease caused by a variety of conditions. It is a type of high blood pressure present in the lungs and typically impacts older adults. Symptoms include shortness of breath and difficulty being active, chest pain, feeling faint or complete fainting, as well as heart failure symptoms, such as swelling in the ankles and legs.
The center is led by Jesus Almendral, M.D., FACC, medical director, Advanced Heart Failure Program; Eric Costanzo, D.O., pulmonologist and critical care specialist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, and Shore Pulmonary Associates. “Early diagnosis and treatment is important, as symptoms can become more serious and life-threatening,” said Dr. Almendral. “This complex disease can also involve heart failure, weakening the heart muscle and leading to heart rhythm disorders. Early treatment can appreciably improve symptoms, enhance quality of life and reduce risk of other cardiovascular illnesses.”
The Pulmonary Hypertension Center’s multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, pulmonologists, rheumatologists, dietitians, pharmacists, specialized nurses, rehabilitation professionals, diagnostic imaging techs and other medical professionals collaborate to provide patients with appropriate therapy with medications as well as interventional and surgical treatments. “This team approach allows us to accurately diagnose the cause and severity of the disease so that we can
customize an effective plan of care for our patients,” said Dr. Costanzo. “This includes pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation to improve the efficiency of the heart and lungs as well as guided support for patients to make lifestyle changes, like adding proper nutrition to their diet to better manage their well-being.”
“The new center opens with a focus on providing a convenient, centralized location for our patients, where they can see multiple specialists in one visit,” said Vito Buccellato, MPA, LNHA, president and chief hospital executive, Jersey Shore University Medical Center. “Located in our Amdur Pavilion, it is easily accessible through its outpatient entrance with available valet parking and a short walk to the center. This is a great new service for our community.”
For many years, the academic medical center has been one of the leading cardiovascular service providers in the state, performing thousands of diagnostic, interventional and surgical procedures annually. Jersey Shore University Medical Center provides the only open and minimally invasive heart surgery program in Monmouth and Ocean counties, as well as cardiac technology and treatment options unavailable anywhere else in the region.
“We continue to add advanced technologies, convenient amenities and clinical experts to our extensive range of healthcare services at Jersey Shore,” said Kenneth N. Sable, M.D., MBA, FACEP, regional president, Southern Market, Hackensack Meridian Health. “The new center is another great example of how we are meeting the needs of our community.”
For more information about the Pulmonary Hypertension Center, visit hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/Services/ Heart-Care/Pulmonary-Hypertension or to make an appointment, call 732-7764660.
ASBURY PARK – A local man was indicted for bludgeoning his girlfriend’s poodle to death, the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office reported.
Nicholas C. Winter, 36, was charged with third-degree Animal Cruelty Resulting in Death. He faces up to five years in state prison.
On June 4, 2022, the Asbury Park Police responded to a Locust Drive home after a woman there said her boyfriend had killed
her dog. The 12-year-old dog, Bentley, was found dead. Another dog, 14-year-old Sophia, was missing but was found in the area several hours later.
Text messages from Winter to the girlfriend threatened harm to her dogs while she was at work. The necropsy on Bentley revealed the cause of death to be blunt force trauma to the head, neck, and body, police said.
Cha rges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.
Just look at that face! Photographer Nicholas Marraro captured this beautiful seal off the coast of the Jersey Shore at Sandy Hook. For more of his great pics, follow him on Instagram @nickmarraro. Want to see your photos in this space? Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!
HOWELL – The Southard Grange is participating in a program offering free hot meals to go every Friday from 2 to
prepared by local
ply, fi rst come, fi rst serve. This will run all year, so if you need it, please take advantage of it. Southard Grange #218 located at 4860 US-9S Howell.
It never ceases to amaze me how people with complicated life situations do not have a Last Will and Testament to make things easier on their families when they pass away.
Case in point, mother and father own a house and reside in the house with their daughter. Daughter has long term medical and psychological issues and cannot live on her own. Parents have one other child, their son, who does not live with his parents. Mother and father both die without preparing Wills. According to daughter, it was the parents’ intention that when both parents passed away the daughter would have the right to live in the house for the rest of her life.
Of course, her brother, the other surviving heir, claims not to be aware of their parents’ intentions and expects the house to be sold so he can receive his share of the estate. Daughter is now upset over the fact that she will have to vacate the house and use her proceeds from the sale of the house to fi nd another place to live.
So now brother and sister are at odds with each other. Sister believing, she should have the right to live in the house for the rest of her life and brother looking for his share of the parents’ estate.
All this could’ve been avoided had the parents prepared Wills that would have
stated their intentions as to the house. When a person passes away without a Will, the estate must be distributed pursuant to the New Jersey laws of intestacy which are a series of laws that specify how assets are to be distributed if there is no Will. In this case, the brother and sister would each have inherited one-half of the estate upon the death of the second parent to pass away. Without a Will that could have shown what the parents real intentions were, legally brother has the right to demand that the house be sold so he can receive his one-half interest in the estate. Had the parents made Wills, they could have stated their intentions as to how the house was to be handled. They could have left the house to the daughter; they could have left the house equally to the two children with the daughter having the right to reside in the house; or they could have left the estate equally to the two children and the daughter would have to fi nd another place to live after the house was sold. The moral of this story is that everyone should have a Will. More importantly, you should have Will especially where you have a complicated situation such as the intention to leave the house to one child. Contact R.C. Shea & Associates for all your Estate Planning needs.
TOMS RIVER – Francine Pannella, LPN, owner of Dementia Living Solutions has announced the scheduling of two Information sessions to share details about “Movement Music & Memories”, a new community-based fitness and enrichment program designed for people living at home with dementia and their care partners.
The information sessions are free and will be held on March 23 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. and on March 25 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the day care center space at Visiting Homecare Service of Ocean County building located at 105 Sunset Avenue Toms River. They ask attendees to use rear parking lot and far left entrance.
Details about the classes, literature, refreshments, and resources will be offered during the sessions. Classes will be offered 2 afternoons per week and Saturday morn-
ings starting in April.
Movement Music & Memories, created in 2011 is a one-hour session of focused movement to carefully chosen music that provides fun and interactive physical and cognitive stimulation using theme based multi-sensory activities, singing, reminiscence and games designed to spark connection to self. Safe, carefully designed movement improves overall fitness by increasing circulation, range of motion and flexibility. Strict adherence to internationally recognized dementia best practices.
The goal? To share the benefits of music driven movement, human connection, stimulate body and brain and provide a fun and joyful experience for all.
For more information visit dementialivingsolutions.com or email fran@dementialivingsolutions.com.
Recently, I was asked what the best-selling memory herb is.
The truth is that there are many herbs and supplements marketed for memory and cognitive function, and it can be difficult to determine which one is the best-selling.
So, my answer is it’s the one that people can remember the name of: Lion’s mane!
Known botanically as Hericium erinaceus, it has gained a lot of attention and has been clinically studied in recent years as a dietary supplement due to its potential cognitive benefits, so it’s definitely a strong contender for the title of “best-selling herb for memory.”
Did you know that lion’s mane mushrooms got their name because they look like a lion’s mane? That’s right, these shaggy mushrooms have long, flowing tendrils that resemble a lion’s mane. So the next time you see a lion’s mane mushroom, you can imagine a lion wearing a stylish hairpiece made of mushrooms!
Several studies have shown that lion’s mane extract may improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration. For example, a 2010 study found that lion’s mane extract improved cognitive function in elderly Japanese men and women. More recently, a 2019 study found that lion’s mane extract improved cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The neuroprotective properties come from the compounds called erinacines and hericenones that can stimulate the growth and regeneration of nerve cells in the brain, and protect them from damage. Some studies have shown that lion’s mane extract may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress,
Solutions.”
both of which can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
As for mood improvement, a 2013 paper outlined how lion’s mane extract reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, at least in menopausal women who were the study participants.
Some people who have Alzheimer’s also take a popular medication called Namenda® and you may wonder if lion’s mane interacts with it. The way the herb works and the drug works are completely different so I’d say it’s probably fine but definitely ask your physician to be sure.
While not on the topic of brain health, one other useful potential benefit of lion’s mane right about now is its ability to boost the immune system! Animal studies have shown that lion’s mane extract can increase the activity of natural killer cells and macrophages. This action helps your body fight off infections and diseases.
Lion’s mane is a medicinal mushroom that is sold as a dietary supplement and it is even in my own Memory Script which is patented. The mushroom is also eaten as a food, similar to portobello and shiitake mushrooms - you can cook with it!
Lions mane has undoubtedly gained a lot of attention in the health and wellness community. As a reminder, lifestyle factors such as regular exercise and healthy eating habits play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive health. So, if you want to improve your memory, don’t forget to exercise your brain along with your body! I’ve written a longer version of this article in case you’re interested and I have more information at suzycohen.com
INC.
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
Across
1 School of thought
4 1972 Kentucky Derby winner __ Ridge
8 Landlocked African country
12 Sense of balance
15 Half of a folkrock duo
16 *Orson Welles’ role in “The Third Man”
32 Crest container
34 “Bus Stop” playwright
35 Dollar bill, e.g. ... and what the ends of the answers to starred clues have in common
38 Curly top
40 Landlocked Asian country
41 “Elephant Boy” boy 45 Jigsaw unit
47 Color printer refills 49 “What’s shakin’?”
50 *”Pogo” cartoonist 52 Finds the right words, say 54 Step into character 55 It may need massaging
56 Crouch down 57 Word with ice or cookie
59 *”Damn Yankees!” star 63 Wetland birds 64 Pushing to the limit
65 “Put a tiger in your tank” brand
66 Babe in the woods
67 LP successors
Down
1 “More or less” suffix
2 Desktop item
3 “The Big Sleep” private eye
4 Most populous Arabian Peninsula city
5 Pandora’s boxful
6 Sundial seven
7 PIN point
8 End of a soldier’s URL
9 Jaw-dropping 10 Cough drop 11 Absurd
13 WWII light machine gun
14 Class ring number 15 Acting fitfully
20 Talk smack about 22 Deli order 23 Pitiless
(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.
24 Boot stud
25 Legendary Hollywood hot dog restaurant
28 French summer
31 “Snowy” bird
33 Black shade
36 Houston NBA team
37 “Try me”
38 Cochise followers
39 Instagram overlays
42 Like some lions
43 Rifle handle
44 Good times
46 Brain scan inits.
48 Costume spangle
50 Fritter away
51 They may be drawn
53 Country duo Brooks & __
56 Bandleader Artie
58 Rock producer Brian
60 DOJ division
61 Bikini half
62 Some NFL linemen
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)
Save ad - Male 68 relocating Bayville, enjoy karaoke seeks female 45/young 70s. 580-484-5184. albertgilberti33@gmail.com. (13)
Storage Space - Long term non-commercial use. Jackson, Manchester or surrounding area. Electric a plus, 732-278-5098. (15)
Vive Scooter For Sale - Call Ruby at 732-763-0668. $500. (13)
Brass Chandelier - $40/obo, very good condition. Shoulder therapy ice machine, $125/obo. Cash only. Will meet in Toms River to ck. Call 732-854-2750. (13)
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)
Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (13)
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
Cash Paid LP Records - 33/45's, reel to reel's. Fast response, we answer the phone 732-829-5908, 24/7, Eddie. (41)
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)
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)
Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Part-time Custodian/Maintenance for 55+ community - MondayFriday mornings 8 a.m.-noon. Experience as custodian or in a similar role preferred. Familiar with basic handyman practices. Attention to detail and conscientiousness. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Follow written work orders as directed. Apply in confidence to Tom 732-552-3634. (12)
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 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)
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)
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)
Property/Management - Brick repair, brick restoration, mulch, stone, Spring/Fall cleanups, pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (14)
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
to Read Your
Book!
Publish
CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.
1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:
• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales • Auto For Sale
•
2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.
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 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 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)
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)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
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:
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)
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.
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.
TOMS RIVER – Below is a list of upcoming trips hosted by Bill Morano Tours. Some dates and prices are subject to change. Includes deluxe motorcoach transportation. Overnight tour prices include hotels and are per person double occupancy. Toms River Departures. Free parking available. Call for a free brochure at 732-278-2059. For more information, visit moranotours.net
Day Trips:
March 11 – Philadelphia Flower Show “Garden Electric” – $88. Show returns indoors at the convention center. Includes admission.
April 30 – Wind Creek Casino Bethlehem, PA – $44. Guests receive $25 to $30 slot play.
May 6 – Amish Country Lancaster, PA – $85. Includes Shady Maple lunch, plus visit Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop and Kitchen Kettle Village.
June 7 – Day in Cape May, NJ – $99. Includes lunch at Lobster House and Historic District Trolley Tour.
June 28, July 9 – Sight & Sound Theater “Moses” – $137. Main floor seats. Includes buffet lunch at Shady Maple.
July 22 – New York Yankees vs. K.C. Royals – $133. Good seats.
Multi-Day Trips:
May 20 to 26 – Seven-day Kentucky and Nashville’s “Music City” – $1,079. Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, General Jackson lunch and Show Cruise, Guided tour of Historic Lexington, KY and Horse Racing Park. Also, Noah’s “Ark Encounter,” Bourbon Distillery Tour and Tasing. Plus, West Virginia, “The Mountain State” Gandy Dancer Dinner Show. Includes 11 meals too! Good package.
Great Price!
June 18 to 21 – Four-day Cape Code and Martha’s Vineyard – $789.
July 11 to 13 – Three-day Finger Lakes, NY – $675.
September 17 to 20 – Four-day Coastal Maine – $749. Old Orchard Beach (three nights), Portland, Casco Bay Cruise, Kennebunkport.
NEW JERSEY – The University of Maine recognized 3,010 students for achieving Dean’s List honors in the fall 2022 semester. Of the students who made the Dean’s List, 1,983 are from Maine, 957 are from 45 other states and 70 are from 25 countries other than the U.S.
To be eligible for the Full-time Dean’s List, a student must have completed 12 or more calculable credits in the semester and have earned a 3.50 or higher semester GPA. Students who have part-time status during both the fall and spring semesters of a given academic year are eligible for Part-time Dean’s List. They must have completed 12 or more calculable credits over both terms and have
earned a combined GPA in those terms of 3.50 or higher.
Monmouth County:
Freehold – Tristan McMerty
Howell – Ryan Corzo
Little Silver – Brooke Arend
Manasquan – Riley Brennan
Oakhurst – Sofia Rivera
Ocean – Garrett Laffler
Ocean County:
Brick – Julia Coombs, John Costanza, John Meyer
Manahawkin – Charles Rulon
Toms River – Pierce Varneke
Whiting – Derrick Gonzalez
HOWELL – Meet Howell Township Mayor Theresa Berger and Council Members Evelyn O’Donnell, Susan Fischer, Fred Gasior and Ian Nadel during a Chamber of Commerce event.
Cost to attend is $5 for Howell Chamber members, $10 for not yet members plus the
cost of lunch (you pay the restaurant for your meal). RSVP so they can advise the restaurant of a head count. Email the chamber to RSVP at info@howellchamber.com.
Meet The Mayor and Council on March 17 at 12 p.m. at The Chapter House 1454 Route 9 South, Howell.
These magnificent creatures, approximately 182 species in New Jersey, 145 of those species are found in Sussex County. There are more dragonflies in our state than any other in the United States. You would find them from April through October, skimming the water, zigzagging over ponds and streams. The month of June has the most daylight, so it is the best month for seeing them. Dragonflies pose no threat to humans.
The early stage of their life begins, where they will spend a year or more, under water. Once they leave the water, they will molt early in the day making them more vulnerable to predators - frogs, birds, insects such as wasps, ants - until their wings dry. Once that occurs, their speed and zigzag flight pattern makes them more challenging for predators to catch. As often happens in nature, where groups of a species group together, dragonflies tend to emerge from the water in large numbers, at the same time. This synchronization is deliberate and supports the hypothesis that, living in a large group or cluster, individuals may be less likely to become victims to being attacked or threatened. The lifespan of the dragonfly is a
few weeks to months.
Food sources for dragonflies are mosquitoes, a wide variety of insects, butterflies, and will even prey upon other dragonflies. Where forested areas with streams are present, you might encounter a smaller number of species. Farm fields and open areas where an abundance of insects are found, you would also find dragonflies.
In recent years with more people enjoying outdoor activities, in particular bird watching, butterflies and dragonflies have been added to the list of those curious about other species. There is a term known as ‘odonata’ that was coined from the Greek which focuses and studies dragonflies and damselflies and is one of the most popular insect groups.
Dragonflies were the technological inspiration to create the drone, as well as artificial visual systems.
The information for this article was gathered through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.
It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/or federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which includes harm inflicted upon any animal, are punishable by law.
NEW GRETNA – A Spring Craft and Antique Show will be held March 25 with a rain date of April 1 at Veterans United Military Memorial Museum, 5576 RT 9, New Gretna.
They will have more than 30. There will
be two food trucks. Parking is free at the wine bottle.
For more information, please call or text to 609-513-6454.
Please tell your family and friends! Hope to see you!
HOWELL – The Mackenzie Blair Foundation is hosting a Designer Bag Bingo and Tricky Tray on April 21 at Southard Fire House, 4611 Route 9, Howell. Doors will open at 5 p.m. and the games will begin at 7 p.m. They will be a cash only event so please make sure that you bring
your money.
Tickets will be $35 and will include your admission and a sheet of bingo (three games per sheet) for 10 games of bingo. Visit thembfoundation.org for more information or contact mackenzieblairfoundation@gmail.com.
“There’s always some kind of support available,” for patients struggling with pain, Dr. Sarah Choxi told me in a recent discussion. If you, like many of Garden State Medical Center’s new patients, have been told by other doctors that nothing could be done to alleviate your suffering, it’s time to think again. When you combine the vast treatment options available at GSMC with Dr. Choxi and the rest of their pain management specialists (including founder Dr. Dharam Mann), that negativity simply doesn’t stand a chance.
After all, her interest in helping people has driven her throughout her education and career. She decided to specialize in anesthesiology and interventional pain management because she saw how much those fields could change lives. “It was a way to help patients improve quality of life,” said Dr. Choxi. “It can be really difficult for people when they have pain to go through their normal day by day activities. So it was really important to me as a medical student, later on as a resident, and now as an attending to be able to restore their function and have very independent lives.” People who have conditions that can’t be solved or are difficult to solve deserve the ability to be happy and pain-free.
Formerly at the University of Chicago, Dr. Choxi was drawn to GSMC’s same focus, as well as the innovative tools it has to make it happen. “It’s a very multi-dimensional perspective on managing pain,” she said. Their solutions include medication management, injections, spinal cord stimulators, and countless others that have been proven safe and effective. Oftentimes a combination of techniques works best. “Patients aren’t cookie cutter. They’re very
unique and individual. So I think you need to have a plan in place that caters to their specific needs.”
Garden State Medical Center has always been on the cutting edge, so it’s only natural for them to have so much under their umbrella. If Dr. Choxi thinks you need to see a rheumatologist, don’t start looking at next month’s calendar; you can see one of her rheumatologist colleagues in-house in a matter of days. She’ll probably even share her notes with them on their state-of-the-art electronic database, which will also help you to stay informed about your own care.
Being in-the-know about the options available to you is an important part of the culture at GSMC. Dr. Choxi remembers one patient in particular who was desperate for answers. She had heel surgery and, although it had physically healed, she was still feeling a ton of pain. Unfortunately, the surgeon had been dismissive, telling her that there was no reason for her to be feeling discomfort. “She felt a little pushed around by him and sort of just pushed out the door,” Dr. Choxi remembered her saying. When she saw the patient, she told her, “No matter what, we’ll figure this out together.” Dr. Choxi gave her options: five to be exact.
The patient decided to go with an injection called a sympathetic nerve block, and just like that she achieved 90 percent relief. It was a life-changing difference, giving her the ability to ex-
a couple hours and enjoy herself. Previously, anything longer than ten minutes used to be unbearable. “I’m finally able to just enjoy the weather outside,” the patient told her. “I’m so glad that you could give me options and I know that I can trust you.”
perience basic joys again in ways lots of people take for granted. Recently she went to a flea market with her husband and could actually just walk around for
Trust in a doctor gives patients the courage to pursue the treatment they feel most comfortable with. Luckily, after Dr. Choxi gives you the most effective and safest options, she’s happy let you
make the ultimate choice. Unfamiliar with how some of these methods work? She’ll happily go over everything with you at length and answer any questions. In addition, GSMC has models in every room to help patients visualize what doctors are describing. There are even televisions in all the offices with videos that give patients a full rundown of procedures and illustrations on how they’re performed.
It’s all because Dr. Choxi’s patients “know that they’re
going to get the care they deserve”. To get started, call 1-888-376-2661 today to schedule an appointment, or feel free to visit gsmedicalcenter.org to learn more on the procedures Garden State Medical Center provides. Dr. Choxi currently practices at 780 Route 37 West, Suite 110 and 1314 Hooper Avenue, Building B, Suite 101 in Toms River; 1100 Route 70, Entrance A in Whiting; 1608 Route 88, Suite 102 in Brick; and 100 Route 36, Suite #1K in West Long Branch.
By Jeraldine Saunders
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Try your best to avoid an awkward situation in the week ahead. Keep your promises with a positive attitude to overcome any small misunderstandings. Returning a gift might make someone feel unappreciated, so be tactful.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Express your enthusiasm for work or play, for something unique or for anything that piques your interest. In the upcoming week, you may receive instant attention for inventiveness and your efforts to act independently.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “Hope for the best but prepare for the worst” might be your motto in the week ahead. This is a week when you may resolve to find ways to remain solvent and secure while reviewing your financial future.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Read and listen with curiosity in mind, as knowledge is a gift. You may use your spare time to delve into subjects such as geography or travel. The more you learn, the happier you may be as this week unfolds.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Your better instincts may gain the upper hand as this week unfolds. When you feel the holiday spirit, you are more likely to help a friend or act on a charitable impulse. An ambitious project may consume your waking hours.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In the upcoming week, you might realize that following the same old routines could be slow-moving. It might be time to change a few of your habits or try something new. Consider reassessing and revising your goals.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Expand your horizons and digest new knowledge gathered from simple, everyday events. Plan some exciting excursions or activities for the week ahead so that your loved ones feel they’re getting ample attention.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You may think you prefer to hang out with familiar people in well-known places. However, you might become more enthused if you try something new and different. Break out of your comfort zone in the week to come.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): It may be a good week to expand your horizons. Search for information or courses on things you’ve always found interesting. Enjoy the process of learning how things work and try something new.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): This is the traditional week to make some resolutions and find wise solutions. You could profit from applying last-minute, end-of-year tax strategies. Consider making some sensible and dynamic changes to your lifestyle.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Being successful in an undertaking may take risk. You might find more than you bargained for while playing on the internet or exploring new territory. Your leadership abilities might receive notice in the upcoming week.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Get straight to the point. In the upcoming week, vagueness or a lack of commitment could create confusion. However, you don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, so try to tread a fine line. (For
WHOLLY AMERICAN
