2023-04-08 - The Berkeley Times

Relay For Life, Other Fundraisers Return

Town Borrows $2M For Purchases

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY

– The town is borrowing $2,061,914 to pay for vehicles, lifesaving equipment, and other capital projects.

A recent ordinance appropriates $2,170,437 and issues $2,061,914 in bonds. The difference in these two numbers is the $108,523 that the town has to put up as a down payment (5%). When a town appropriates money, they are setting it aside for a purpose. If the cost goes down, then they’ll have money left over to put toward something else. If the cost goes up, they would have to pass an amendment to pay the extra.

This ordinance doesn’t include the interest rate of the bond. Usually towns pay them off over a couple decades. If a lower interest rate is made available years later, they will try to take advantage of that. Municipal finances often put things in terms of the number of years they are considered useful. This is based on Local Bond Law. A vehicle might only have a useful life for five years. This means that after this time, the cost of maintaining it exceeds the cost of buying new. Surplus items are then auctioned off to the public. It is considered good financial planning (Town - See Page 6)

Last year’s Relay For Life raised about $42,000.

By

Chris Lundy

BERKELEY

– The Relay for Life held at Veterans Park will be returning on August 12 and 13.

The relay raises money for cancer research and support of families. It got its start

in 1985, when Dr. Gordon Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, raising money to help the American Cancer Society. The walk was about 83.6 miles and he raised

$27,000. The next year, the Relay for Life was born. It has continually been an overnight event since then. No one walks for 24 hours straight, though. They take turns, and that’s why it’s (Relay - See Page 4)

VIETNAM VETS HONORED ON 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEACE ACCORDS

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT – The community came together once again on March 29 to honor Vietnam veterans - this time, on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Paris Peace Accords. The date is officially known as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

Sale Of School Parking Lot Declined

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY

– As

of right now, the Central Regional School District is not going to be selling the Middle School’s overflow parking lot, officials said.

For the event’s organizer, Barnegat resident Thy Cavagnaro, showing gratitude to Vietnam veterans is a deeply personal matter. Thy said she was just a young girl when her family escaped the fall of Saigon and was welcomed to the United States (Vets - See Page 5)

As overflow parking, this is not used most days. Events are usually held at the neighboring high school so most people park there.

This is at the very least being paused right now as the district conducts their superintendent search, Business Administrator Kevin O’Shea said.

At a recent Board of

Education meeting, a bid to purchase the land by Radix Capital, LLC was rejected. “CRSD is not moving forward with the sale of the land and the proposed project,” interim Superintendent Douglas Corbett said in an interview after the meeting. “The lot is being used for overflow parking. The proposed plan was for commercial usage. The bid was reviewed by the Board Attorney, Mr. Dasti, and based on his input the BOE felt it was in the best interest not to

(Parking - See Page 6)

$1995

Includes: arrangement conference, removal from place of death, alternative container Batesville ccbmdfc, transfer to crematory, crematory fee

“We are dedicated to exceeding expectations and delivering a standard of service that is 100% guaranteed.”

─Photo courtesy Roxanne Stephens

─Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Barnegat students played and sang patriotic songs.

Relay:

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a relay.

This year’s theme is “Relay Around the World,” said organizer Robyn Griffith. This event is commonly referred to as the Berkeley-Lacey walk. It can be found by visiting Cancer. org . Click “Relay For Life” toward the bottom of the page, and then click “Join A Relay.”

As usual, the relay will start on Saturday with a Survivors Luncheon at noon followed by opening ceremony held around 2 p.m.

Anyone interested in becoming part of the planning committee can come to the meetings on the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Berkeley Recreation Building, 630 Atlantic City Boulevard (Route 9).

Last year was feared to be the last Berkeley-Lacey relay, the event’s leaders said at the time. It is a huge undertaking and COVID-19 made gatherings of cancer survivors and caretakers a dangerous idea. However, there was clearly desire from locals because the event raised about $42,000, more than twice their initial goal.

Other Charities

There are simple ways that you can help in your community.

Pop tops from aluminum cans (soda, beer, etc.) are being collected by Griffith to help support the Ronald McDonald House Charities in the fight against pediatric cancer.

The same aluminum cans from the pop tops are being collected to support Relay for Life “Cans For A Cure,” Griffith said. These cans will be recycled and monies made will be donated to Relay to help support patient programs.

“With the “Cans For A Cure” fundraiser, I am personally trying to raise $10,000 or more. If I do I will be shaving my head at the Relay event,” she said. “In order for me to save the hair I need to raise $15,000 or more (All in the name of charity.)”

Additionally, she is also collecting clear and white bottle tops from water bottles and similar containers. Those are then turned in and melted to help make prostheses.

Griffith is known locally for helping the WJRZ holiday fundraiser which collects food, toys, and other supplies just before Thanksgiving. They can be seen filling a huge Pepsi tractor trailer in front of the ShopRite on Fischer Boulevard in Toms River. Last year, the radio station collected tons of donations and money for Fulfill, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Jersey Shore Animal Center.

Anyone needing more information about these charities can contact Griffith at rnofgnt@yahoo.com.

─Photo courtesy Robyn Griffith Robyn Griffith is collecting recyclables for fundraisers.

Letters: Continued From Page 1

as refugees.

Clad in a traditional Vietnamese dress, she spoke about the incredible support she and her family received from Americans who opened their homes and helped them integrate into society. Meanwhile, Thy also took the opportunity to address the mistreatment of Vietnam veterans. She recognized the trauma the returning soldiers endured, being forced to fight in a war they didn’t want to be in and being ostracized when they came home.

“You survived the majority of your lives for many, many decades by not talking about the war nor your participation in it,” said Thy. “To hide and bury that part of your history deep down inside you. You’ve been through hell and back, lived a nightmare, and are still living it at times – for people like me.”

A hush swept over the room as many attendees’ eyes seemed to drift back to their times overseas. The moment was not lost on Major General Clark Martin, a Vietnam veteran with 100 combat missions flown over Vietnam.

“There were actually as many veterans in this room that I stood with in line in Bangkok for five hours waiting to get on a DCF to fly back home from Southeast Asia,” recalled Martin. “That airplane held 286 of us.”

Martin shared details of his service, saying he enlisted rather than waiting for his

number to come up in the draft. He saw military duty as his patriotic duty, while others volunteered to fight, hoping to have more control over where and when, and how they served. Some saw the military as a means of economic security or a way out of bad situations. Those drafted were pulled away from their lives – something Martin said today’s youth could not begin to imagine.

Some would give the ultimate sacrifice never to return home to loved ones. Those who made it back faced ridicule, heckling, and were even spit upon.

“The US war in Vietnam triggered the most tenacious anti-war movement in US history,” Martin said. “Seems to me when I left in 1967, I was a patriot. When I returned in 1968, I was a criminal. And, I’m sure that’s what happened to a lot more people.”

Thy and her husband Jim began a local campaign of thanking Vietnam vets that included the erection of a memorial monument in the downtown area in 2018. One of the couple’s goals is to involve local students in the annual events so that the legacy of gratitude can continue for years to come.

As part of the event’s opening ceremony, the flag was presented and displayed by the Barnegat High School Navy ROTC Color Guard, while the pledge of allegiance was led by Vincent Lorenzo, a fifth-grade student who had been the event’s keynote speaker the previous year.

Students from the Russell O. Brackman Middle School Chorus sang the National Anthem, while a local group named the Waterview Singers delivered “God Bless America.”

When the Armed Forces Medley was played by the Barnegat High School Marching Band, representatives from each branch of the military stood with pride.

The event was graced by the presence of local and state officials, including Assemblywoman Diane Gove, Barnegat Mayor Pasquale “Pat” Pipi, the entire Township Committee, Stafford Mayor Greg Myhre, and the members of the Stafford town council, some of whom also delivered speeches.

Hannah Cronen, a junior at Barnegat High

School, distinguished herself by playing “Taps” on the bugle, honoring both the living and fallen veterans who served their country with time and sacrifice. The slow and mournful notes acted as a deeply meaningful tribute.

American Legion Post 232, VFW Post 10092, the Barnegat Township Committee, Barnegat Schools and the Cavagnaros co-sponsored the event, which included refreshments supplied courtesy of Wawa and Barnegat BD Bakery classes.

─Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Veterans were invited as special guests.

www.TallwoodsCareCenter.com

Town: Continued From Page 1

to bond for items that have five or more years of useful life.

The following purchases will eventually be made: Five outfitted police vehicles, totaling $442,814. These have an average period of usefulness equal to five years.

Equipment for the Division of Emergency Medical Services (the paid ambulance squad run by the police), including an automated external defibrillator (AED), chest compression device, ambulance remount (when they take the back of an ambulance and put it on a new chassis), power load systems and laptops, for a total of $324,983. This equipment would also have a usefulness equal to five years.

A street sweeper for the Division of Streets and Roads, with an estimated cost of $314,490, and an average period of usefulness of 15 years.

A robo garbage truck and a rear loader/ garbage truck with a plow for the Divi -

Parking:

Continued From Page 1

move forward.”

The minimum asking price in the bid was $1.5 million, O’Shea said.

“We had three or four groups inquire about the project but ultimately only received the one bid,” he said. “The bid was rejected because the way it was proposed was essentially not able to be accepted. Our attorney reviewed everything and ultimately the way it was proposed (it) would not have been approved by the NJ

sion of Sanitation and Recycling, with an estimated cost of $670,911 and an average period of usefulness of 10 years. Equipment for the Bayville, Manitou, and Pinewald volunteer fire companies at an estimated cost of $286,201 and an average period of usefulness of five years.

Equipment for the volunteer first aid companies, including Bayville, Silver Ridge, Tri-Boro, Holiday Heights, and Holiday City at Berkeley, with an estimated cost of $131,038 and an average period of usefulness of five years. Engineering, legal fees and other soft costs adding up to $100,000

New Chief Financial Officer

In related news, the township hired Christine Manolio to be the chief financial officer. In this role, she will be overseeing all the budgetary portions of the town’s day-to-day operations. She used to be the CFO for Toms River.

At the end of last year, Fred Ebenau retired as Berkeley’s CFO.

An ordinance from February listed the CFO salary range as between $60 and $80 per hour.

Department of Education.”

It is unknown how this construction would have changed traffic in the area as that would be worked out during the planning stages of whatever was proposed.

The land is close to the Garden State Parkway, which is favorable for commuters.

A few years ago, a single-family home at the corner by the High School’s parking lot entrance was torn town and a 7-Eleven was built in its place. This led to concerns by neighbors of additional traffic and garbage overflow from a commercial building moving in to a residential area.

Meeting To Be Held About Cable Companies

BERKELEY – There will be a public hearing regarding the franchise agreements for Cablevision (Optimum) and Comcast (Xfinity) cable companies at the Berkeley Township Municipal Building, 627 Pinewald-Keswick

Road, Bayville, on Monday, April 17 at 5 p.m.

This will be immediately followed by the Township Council meeting.

The public is invited and official action will be taken at both meetings.

D.A.R.E Car Show

BERKELEY – D.A.R.E Car Show will be on June 3 (rain date June 4) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Veteran’s Park, 489 Forest Hills Parkway, Bayville.

Donation of $10. Enjoy trophies, raffles, DJ, food and giveaways. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. For more information, contact Biff at 848-221-4515.

Free Grief Share Meetings

BAYVLLE – Free Grief Share Meetings are every Tuesday at 7 p.m. All materials and workbooks are free. They offer support, encouragement

and hope to those who have suffered a loss. Meetings held at Emmanuel Community Church 331 Wheaton Avenue, Bayville.

New Data Shows Increase Of Children With Autism

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In response to new data showing an increase in the prevalence of autism in children throughout the United States, Reps. Chris Smith (R-4th) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Autism Caucus, issued a joint call for increased awareness and expanded access to care, education and support services for families touched by autism.

The new data - released by the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC)

- revealed that 1 in 36 children have autism spectrum disorder, marking a significant increase from previous estimates of 1 in 44 children across the country.

“Autism is on the rise across the United States - and my home state of New Jersey has the third highest rate of autism in the nation,” said Smith, who has authored four major laws to combat and treat autism, including the Autism CARES Act of 2019, which provides $1.8 billion to fund research, early

detection and treatment for children and adults with autism through 2024.

“While much progress has been made to support the autism community, we must do better to ensure those affected by autism have access to the education and services they need to live healthy, independent lives - especially and including as they ‘age-out’ of schoolbased programs and become adults,” Smith said.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, and as a member of

the House Appropriations Committee, I have been committed to increasing funding for autism research and programs that serve people with autism and their caregivers,” said Cuellar. “The new autism prevalence numbers released by the CDC indicate there is still much work to be done.”

“I look forward to continuing to work with my caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Chris Smith, and my colleagues in the House to deliver crucial investments in autism research,” Cuellar added.

Senator Questions Incentives That Drive Up Cost Of Prescriptions

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, during a hearing questioned witnesses about the impact pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) have on the prescription drug supply chain and how their warped incentive structure drives up prices for patients and consumers. PMBs are entities that manage prescription drug benefits and pharmacy networks on behalf of health plans, employers, and other payers.

“Pharmacy benefit managers are key players in alleviating a patient’s financial burden at the pharmacy counter as they frequently set patient out-of-pocket costs based on a drug’s list price. The higher the list price, the more the patient pays, an obvious burden,” said Sen. Menendez. “Less obvious, but equally concerning, is that PBMs benefit significantly from high list prices and have no incentive to choose lower-priced drugs to drive down patient cost. PBMs extract rebates from

manufacturers based on list price in exchange for a manufacturer’s drug receiving formulary placement. Those rebates are passed on to plans and employers, but almost never to patients.”

Jonathan Levitt, a Founding Partner of Frier Levitt Attorneys at Law located in Pine Brook, NJ, served as a witness during the committee hearing. He agreed with the Senator that it would be better for patients if the prescription drug supply chain was de-linked from the list price and if PBMS and other supply chain entities were paid flat fees for the services they provide.

Sen. Menendez emphasized how PBMs prefer prescription drugs with a higher list price versus those with a lower list price, as appears to be the case for Humira biosimilar drugs introduced into the market to treat rheumatoid arthritis, because they can obtain larger rebates. PBMs do this even though the patient would pay significantly less if they selected the drug with the lower list price.

“The Pharmacy Care Management Association

which represents the PBMs, includes research on their website that states, “High list prices hurt patients who must pay these prices. If list prices were lower, out-of-pocket payments based on list prices would be lower and more affordable,” added the Senator. “If PBMs themselves acknowledge lower list prices would help patients at the pharmacy counter, why would they still place preference on higher list price products when a drug company has given them a better option for patients?”

The Senator highlighted his concern about how mergers and acquisitions in recent years have resulted in CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx now controlling approximately 80 percent of all U.S. prescription drug claims. “This level of concentration gives these PBMs market power over data, drug coverage, and contracting. The hyper-consolidation, with little to no regulatory oversight, creates inappropriate negotiating leverage that discourages

competition and makes it difficult to achieve transparency, affordability, and timely access for patients,” concluded the Senator.

Sen. Menendez has long advocated for creating a more affordable health care system for every New Jerseyan and Americans all across the country. Last year, he played a pivotal role in passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped the price of insulin to $35 a month for seniors on Medicare, and he authored a smoothing provision that also capped Medicare beneficiaries’ out-of-pocket costs at $2,000 a year. Each year, that will benefit about 46,000 New Jersey Medicare beneficiaries who would otherwise have out-of-pocket costs above the cap, according to estimates from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Because of Sen. Menendez’ leadership, for the first time, all 1.2 million New Jerseyans with Medicare Part D will have the peace of mind of knowing their pharmacy costs are capped.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

This letter is intended for all Howell residents and those in surrounding towns. Once again, we’re faced with a massive warehouse construction set in the middle of a country road. Because Howell still runs its planning board meetings via Zoom, and because some residents may not have social media or find it difficult to log on to Zoom meetings, many may not be aware of the newest proposal, so let me introduce you to Victory Road, in the southern portion of Howell and the newest area of attack.

It’s a one mile stretch that runs between Rt. 547 (Squankum Road) and Maxim Southard Road. It still personifies the rural, country setting that originally caused it to be referred to as “living in the sticks.” Horses, goats, ducks, alpacas, chickens and countless family pets share the area with all types of wildlife such as

State Should Pay For Private School Busing

I applaud the Jackson Township Town Council and Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

Warehouses Taking Over Our Towns

foxes, barred owls, geese, deer and the occasional coyote. Our approximately 24-foot wide road isn’t a straight run - there’s a sharp S curve that greatly reduces traffic speed, and several more slight curves, especially near the RR tracks, which currently host an active train run. In the winter, it’s easy to see the NJNG liquified natural gas tank that’s on Rt. 547, and in the summer, overhanging trees form a canopy along the S curve. Water pools and gathers at the eastern end of our road, where it’s not unusual to see ducks and Canadian geese swimming in a field that floods after heavy rains. Bear Creek runs behind the houses to the NE. It is a water aquifer which runs into the Manasquan Reservoir water system. There are several streams and culverts that run under the road due to the high water table. Essentially, it’s remained rural and minimally inhabited for decades.

Now that you have an idea

of what Victory Road is like, this letter is to inform each and every resident of Howell and other towns of the newest warehouse proposal. Maybe you’re not aware, maybe you feel it won’t affect you, maybe you even feel that progress and developments have a right to move forward. There are people who believe “Why bother trying to stop it? They’ll do what they want anyway.” But we can’t live with that defeatist attitude. As much as we may love our little back road, we understand our feelings have little to do with an approval or denial, so let’s forget the sentimentality and present some facts: Our road was built with minimal traffic flow in mind. We are concerned about surface wear when it was paved and graded only for minimal traffic, not trucks weighing thousands of pounds whose routes will inevitably cause damage and necessary repair work (the cost of which will be passed on to all

Howell taxpayers). We are concerned that the heavy machinery, destruction of land and construction of a mega warehouse will have an effect on the NJNG liquified natural gas tank. We are concerned about our property values. We are concerned about the effect that the constant flow of tractor trailers will have on our air quality, noise quality and our overall quality of life. We are concerned about the safety of our children when the school buses stop to pick up students or leave them at their homes. Cars traveling on Rt. 547 will be greatly impacted by trucks attempting to turn from Victory. We all have ground wells as our water supply, so we’re concerned about runoff or debris that will leach into our water. If this proposal is passed, it will force residents to hook up to the municipal water supply, which will incur water and sewer financial hardships. And we are more concerned that our planning board may

approve these plans without due consideration to the residents, whose concerns, besides being valid and actual, should be tantamount and come before any developer.

The lawyers and professionals hired by the warehouse developers seem to believe this project will be minimally invasive…at least, that’s the impression we get. Lawyers costing upwards of $10,000 are simply out of our financial reach. But there are several Victory Road residents with prior and personal experience to address some of our concerns: among them is a former tractor trailer driver whose lifelong experience says that no tractor trailer can safely and easily maneuver turning into and off of Victory Road from the proposed site. We also have an engineer who has pointed out the obvious paving issues, which could potentially cost Howell thousands upon thousands of dollars in repairs once the summer heat softens the blacktop

and creates damage by the heavy vehicles. We all hear a train that intersects Victory and travels several times a week, which will create traffic issues when trucks have to stop. But mostly, we have residents who love the area, love the country atmosphere and are willing to fight to stop this warehouse from moving forward.

The weather’s turning nice….take a ride down into Burlington County or Rt. 537 near Great Adventure, and see how the Garden State is turning into Warehouse Central. We are so sorry to know of the other approved warehouses such as the ones on Fairfield Road or Randolph Road. Not one resident wanted them! It’s time for the powers that be in Howell take notice and help the residents retain our rurality and quality of life.

Diane Lindstrom Howell

for proposing that the State of New Jersey fund private school transportation.

I believe that with the rise in private schools and the number of students attending them the expense of transpor-

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

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

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

tation will be very costly to not only the Jackson public school district, but will also be a burden on the taxpayers. This archaic state mandate (NJSA18A:39-1) which mandates public school districts must provide transportation for students attending private schools does not take into consideration the number of students attending these schools. A prime example is the consistent failure of the Lakewood public school district budget. The money taken from the public school budget for private school transportation impacts the education of the students attending the public schools and our taxes.

I suggest that the residents of Jackson Township support Assemblyman Alex Sauicke’s Bill (A4461) that

would allow Jackson, Howell, Toms River, Brick and Manchester school districts to form a three-year, nonpublic student transportation pilot program to tackle escalating busing costs with state funds.

I also suggest Jackson Township Town Council and the surrounding town councils (Toms River, Howell, Brick and Manchester) petition the state of N.J. to fully fund transportation and special needs services for private schools. This State funding will not only ease the burden on taxpayers, but may also lower the number of private schools approved and built in each town. The state takes in millions from sports betting and now from taxes on the sale of legal recreational cannabis. This cost of private

school transportation should not be the burden of the public school districts and the taxpayers.

Frank Resola

Jackson

Why Build Up Downtown Toms River?

At a recent Township Council meeting, a gentleman said that the public was never given the chance to talk about what they want to see in the downtown area. He is right, because if the public was asked, they definitely would not have said “two big apartment towers.”

The mayor and council made this decision for us.

They think that this will bring new business to the

downtown area. But why would that matter to the rest of us? There’s maybe 10 very rich property owners in downtown Toms River that will be made richer by this. That’s the reason the mayor and council is doing this. They want to help their rich friends. It won’t affect the rest of us one bit.

If these huge apartment towers get built, the town’s school district will swell with kids. It will raise our school taxes during a time when the school is losing state aid because of bad decisions in Trenton.

Tell the mayor and council that the millionaires who own downtown Toms River are not more important than the rest of us.

Carly Smith Toms River

Ocean Gate Police Now Hiring

OCEAN GATE – The Ocean Gate Police Department is accepting resumes/applications for the position of Special Law Enforcement Officer (SLEO) II. SLEOs may eventually be considered for full-time employment when there is a vacancy. Applicants MUST be New Jersey

PTC Certified and possess a current, waiverable SLEO II certification from an approved police academy. Minimum qualifications include:

• Must be a citizen of the United States;

• Must be a resident of the State of New Jersey;

• Must be at least 18 years of age;

• Must be able to read, write and speak the English language well and intelligently;

• Must be sound in body and of good health and be able to perform the physical functions of the duties assigned;

• Must be of good moral character and shall not have been convicted of any crime or offense involving moral turpitude or dishonesty that would make him/her unfit to perform the duties of a police officer;

• A minimum of a high school diploma or a GED equivalent;

• Must possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license in good standing.

Potential applicants will be required to submit to the following selection process:

• Application;

• Verification of qualifying credentials;

• Verification of a non-disqualifying criminal history;

• Verification of at least three personal references;

• A review of the applicant’s driving history;

• A review of the applicant’s prior law enforcement experience;

• A review of the applicant’s prior work history;

• A review of the applicant’s current and past credit history;

• Oral interview.

Following a conditional offer of employment, applicants are required to submit to: Physical examination; Drug screening; Psychological/psychiatric examination.

Successful applicants if hired will then undergo a 6-week Field Training Program. The Borough of Ocean Gate is an equal-opportunity employer.

Qualified applicants can drop off a resume and cover letter in person at Police Headquarters to our Administrative Assistant, Susan Russo during the hours of 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday or resumes can be emailed to Oceangatepdrecruiter@gmail.com.

Victorian Tea Raises Funds For The Restoration Of The BTHS Museum

BERKELEY – Ladies and gentlemen ... the 2nd Annual, “Weekend Before Mother’s Day Tea” is almost here. Please join for a wonderful afternoon of friendship, food, and fun!

Whether you are 5 or 55, the “Weekend Before Mother’s Day Victorian Tea,” is the perfect opportunity to escort your wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, or favorite person to a funfilled, food-filled afternoon. If you attended last year, then you know, no one goes away hungry or without having made great memories.

Join for delicious finger sandwiches, petite desserts and of course scones, while sipping your favorite tea from fine porcelain teacups!

Beautiful hats and costume dress are encour-

aged, but not necessary! The most precious gift we can give to anyone is our time. Spend this day with friends and family.

The Berkeley Township Historical Society’s 2nd Annual Weekend Before Mother’s Day Victorian Tea will be on May 6 at 1 p.m. at the Bayville Volunteer Fire House, 645 Atlantic City Boulevard, Bayville.

Cost: $25 per person, $10 for children 12 & under. Checks made payable to BTHS: c/o Karen Ricotta 543 Eastern Boulevard, Bayville, NJ 08721.

All proceeds go toward the restoration of the Berkeley Township Historical Society Museum. Let’s put a new coat of paint on the “Old Girl.”

EASTER CATERING PACKAGES

Easter Dinner Package #1 (Feeds 8-10) $269.00

12” Antipasta Tray

1/2 Tray Penne Vodka, Baked Ziti or Lasagna

1/2 Tray Mixed Vegetables

1/2 Tray Roasted or Mashed Potatoes

1/2 Tray Spiral Ham, Chicken Parm, Francaise or Marsala

Easter Dinner Package #2 (Feeds 16-20)

Beachwood Community Garden

(732) 506-4346 • 510 US-9, BAYVILLE, NJ 08721

BERKELEY

─Photo

It’s

Staff Supports Epilepsy Awareness Day

Grounds For Sculpture Trip

TOMS RIVER – The Holiday City South Garden Club is hosting a trip to Grounds for Sculpture on June 11 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a full day exploring this beautiful 42-acre park with over 300 contemporary and impressionist art sculptures along the DE River. Lunch on your own at Van Gogh Cafe or Rats Restaurant (reservation advised). Cost is $80 per person for admission and transportation. Tickets on now through May 3. Leave a message to make reservations or inquiries at 732-341-4518 with Carroll or via email: cbaszkowski@aol. com, or visit the HCS Clubhouse on 139 Santiago Drive, Toms River on Fridays 9:30 to 11 a.m. to purchase tickets.

BERKELEY – On March 27, the staff at Berkeley Township Elementary School wore purple in support of Epilepsy Awareness Day.

─Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools

What is a “Mom & Pop” Business?

A small, independent, family owned, controlled and operated business. It has a small amount of business volume. It is not franchised.

“ Open for business in a single location.”

So if your “Mom or Pop” need the services of rehabilitation and nursing services, it just makes sense to go to a “Mom & Pop.”

Here is a picture of a true “Mom & Pop” business: 1579

Central Regional Art Academy

BERKELEY – The Art Academy students in Drawing & Painting 2 are making their first oil paintings. They are working hard and doing an amazing job!

Car Show And Anti-Bullying Walk

BERKELEY – The Berkeley DARE program will host a car show on June 3 at Veterans Park, 489 Forest Hills Parkway, Bayville. Rain date is June 4.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. An

anti-bullying walk will be at 9 a.m. The show is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features trophies, raffles, DJ, food, and giveaways. For more information, contact MBaranyay@BTPDNJ.org.

Central Regional Middle School Presents: Aladdin Jr.

BERKELEY – Central Regional Middle School Drama club presents: Aladdin Jr. from April 28 and 29 at 6:30 p.m. and April 30 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Email emoore@centralreg.k12. nj.us or call 732-269-1100 ext. 3551 for more information.

─Photo courtesy Central Regional

Pine Beach Students Are Teachers For A Day

PINE BEACH – Noe and Alex, 5th grade ESL students at Pine Beach Elementary, approached Supervisor Catherine Mellon and asked if they could become the school’s Spanish teachers for a day. Intrigued by the idea, Mrs. Mellon told them to put together a lesson plan and present it to her.

The boys worked together over the weekend, created a Google Slide presentation, and presented it to Principal Tricia Tutzauer and Supervisor Mellon the following week.

With the help of Principal Tutzauer,

the students finalized their lesson plan and were “hired” to teach Spanish the following week!

The students taught their lesson dressed as teachers - complete with teacher ID badges from Principal Tutzauer.

It was a great experience for these two students and they were so excited to be given the opportunity to share their hard work!

Noe said to his ESL teacher Mrs. Delahunt, “I’m so happy, I feel like this is all a dream.”

Crestwood Village 3 Residents Club Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 3 Residents Club will hold a “Hats Off To You” dance on May 20 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Wear your favorite hat and enjoy the music of DJ Johnny’s Magic Moments.

Cost is $10 per person. BYOB. Included: coffee, tea, soda, water, chips and dessert. Tickets on sale at Unity Hall on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. No refunds unless cancelled. For any questions, call 732-993-7100.

2nd Annual Spring Flower Sale

TOMS RIVER – The Holiday City South Garden Club is holding their 2nd Annual Spring Flower Sale - hanging baskets and herb perennials - on May 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Just in time for Mother’s Day! Look for the big tent!

Leave a message to make reservations or inquiries at 732-341-4518 with Carroll or via email: cbaszkowski@aol.com, or visit the HCS Clubhouse on 139 Santiago Drive, Toms River on Fridays 9:30 to 11 a.m. to purchase tickets.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Sound News

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

Hearing Aids And Water

By now, you’ve probably heard that there are waterproof hearing aids. This is true, and they’re an amazing technological advancement, but most devices are only water resistant. This is made possible by a moisture-repellent nano-coating. It’s helpful but not impenetrable. Here are some tips to protect your tech from water damage: Want more advice on how to protect your investment in better hearing? Call us today — we’re HEAR to help! This may seem like a lot of things to keep in mind while wearing and caring for your devices, but the precautions are worth it. Over time, exposure to moisture can corrode the delicate electronics and shorten their lifespan. By doing what you can to keep them dry, you’ll save on repairs, replacements, and premature upgrades.

Avoid Moisture Altogether Remember to take your devices out of your ears before showering, hitting the pool, or getting into the hot tub. Be sure to store them in their own secure case rather than in a pocket or purse. The safest risk is the one you don’t take.

Wipe Them Down Wiping your devices daily with a clean, dry cloth helps clear moisture and debris. Audiowipes can be purchased from your hearing healthcare professional which is even a better option than using a dry cloth. This is especially important during the colder months when condensation is more likely to form.

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

Use Hearing Aid Covers These can help protect your devices from water splashes, sweat, humidity, dust, and dirt.

Try a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifier

This small appliance not only dries and sanitizes your devices as you sleep but can also double as their regular storage container. Hearing aids should be dried every night. Many rechargeable hearing aids incorporate a dehumidifier built into the charging unit. Keep a Hat on Hand You never know when an unexpected rain shower might crash your outdoor fun. Having a spare hat can help keep the rain off you as well as your hearing aids.

Act Quickly If the worst happens and your hearing aids get soaked, thoroughly dry them and call your audiologist — don’t put them in a bag of rice!

This may seem like a lot of things to keep in mind while wearing and caring for your devices, but the precautions are worth it. Over time, exposure to moisture can corrode the delicate electronics and shorten their lifespan. By doing what you can to keep them dry, you’ll save on repairs, replacements, and premature upgrades.

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer all of your hearing care questions. They can be reached at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Become A Mah Jongg Master

BERKELEY – Mah Jongg, the table game of strategy from China, has a large following in Ocean County. Would you like to become a player? You can learn at the Ocean County Library Berkeley Branch, 1 p.m. each Thursday, April 6 through May 25. No experience is needed to attend Intro to Mah Jongg. Watch demonstrations by experienced players, become familiar with rules

and terminology, and join the games as your skills develop and your confidence grows. Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events to attend this free program. One registration ensures a seat at each weekly session.

For more information, visit the Berkeley Branch, 30 Station Road, Bayville, or call 732-269-2144.

Cape May Bus Trip

TOMS RIVER – The Holiday City South Garden Club is hosting a Cape May Bus Trip on May 2 from 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Come enjoy a tour of the beautiful Victorian Southern Mansion and visit the Museum of Fine Arts and Pop Culture, shop and lunch on your own at Washington Mall. Cost is $73 per person for admissions and

transportation. Tickets on sale now until April 17.

Leave a message to make reservations or inquiries at 732-341-4518 with Carroll or via email: cbaszkowski@aol.com, or visit the HCS Clubhouse on 139 Santiago Drive, Toms River on Fridays 9:30 to 11 a.m. to purchase tickets.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Can Vitamin C Replace Statins? Potential Benefits For Cardiovascular Health

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid plays a vital role in various physiological processes in the human body. We can’t make it ourselves. We have to eat it or take dietary supplements.

As you know, vitamin C functions as an antioxidant, protecting our body against oxidative stress caused by free radicals which destroy cells. This leads to chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and faster aging (due to a breakdown in collagen).

A deficiency of vitamin C can cause numerous problems to occur, mainly because of the lack of collagen production which C facilitates. Low collagen will cause more wrinkles as well as fatigue, endothelial dysfunction, anemia, frequent infections, anxiety, depression, and tender, bleeding gums.

Low collagen causes vasoconstriction which increases blood pressure. The collagen that C helps you produce ensures a more elastic blood vessel, and that’s what you want. Without enough collagen, the vessels are not as bendy and it’s this loss of elasticity (and resulting oxidative stress) that increases your risk for hypertension.

Several studies have shown that vitamin C supplementation can lead to a significant reduction in blood pressure in people with hypertension. For example, a meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials found that vitamin C supplementation led to a modest but statistically significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Some studies suggest that vitamin C may have a modest beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. You can certainly take it with

a statin drug if your practitioner likes the idea because there’s no bad interaction. The C enhances the effect of the statin’s cholesterol-reducing power. But to answer the question, “Can vitamin C replace statins” the answer is no. It definitely doesn’t reduce cholesterol like the pharmaceutics, but it will contribute to better cardiovascular health if you maintain adequate levels.

People like to supplement with vitamin C. The truth is that synthetic ascorbic acid will give you vitamin C - it’s made in a laboratory and derived from corn usually. It’s not bad, it’s just that some people think that all those supplements are made by squeezing oranges, and that’s just not true. There are some 100% natural vitamin C brands that are produced by extracting the nutrient from actual fruits like cherries, lemons, oranges, and grapefruits which is what I do.

Here’s a fun fact about blood pressure: Did you know that giraffes have incredibly high blood pressure, it’s around 280/180 mmHg, which is more than twice the average human blood pressure!

This is because giraffes have really long necks, so their hearts have to work extra hard to pump blood all the way up to their heads. But they’re generally healthy and rarely experience cardiovascular problems since their blood vessels are very elastic so they don’t rupture or tear.

Ask your physician about it if you take certain medications like antibiotics like tetracycline or erythromycin. High doses of vitamin C may interfere with the effectiveness of chemotherapy. I have a more comprehensive version of this article.

To read that, please 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.

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

Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

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A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 309 Hooper Ave. • Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

around the JerSey Shore

Black Bears – Who, What, Where And When safety risk.

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

In North America, the black bear can be found in most of our fifty states. Black bears can sprint up to 35 mph and climb 100 feet up a tree within 30 seconds. Males weigh approximately 150 to 500 pounds, females between 90 and 350 pounds. Black bears live in large ranges, not territories, sharing space with other bears of both sexes, but not at the same time. A male and female during breeding season would be sharing a range, providing them with shelter, food, and mates.

Bears have remarkable senses of hearing and smell, preferring natural foods, such as various nuts (considered hard mast), berries and fruits (considered soft mast). Hibernators, winter food sources would be hard mast as the most critical due to the denser source of calories. They have a voracious appetite. Females will be emerging with cubs.

The best way to deter bears from entering neighborhoods is to be diligent in securing your trash with a cover. If you have a garage, keep your trash inside until the day of pick-up. Black bears becoming successful in obtaining unnatural food sources in neighboring areas occupied by people, may lose their fear of people, becoming a public

Always be aware of your surrounding outdoors, no matter what the season or where you live. Mother bears with cubs are not looking to encounter people, but encounters may happen. The mother will direct her cubs to climb a tree. Should you encounter a mother bear, stay calm, allow plenty of room, even it means changing your planned movement. Leave the area quietly.

Black bears generally, not always, display defensive behavior towards people when they feel threatened. Their ears and head may be held low, eyes directed on you. Should you encounter one, don’t encourage a bear’s prey drive. NEVER RUN. Stand your ground until the bear leaves - then walk away. Do not PLAY DEAD. If attacked, fight, kick, punch, throw rocks, whatever you can find. Educate yourself, as every encounter is different.

I gathered the information for this article using multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife, are punishable by law.

New Jersey Natural Gas Wants You To Be A Partner In Safety

WALL – April marks the 14th annual National Safe Digging Month, and New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) reminds New Jersey residents to keep themselves and their communities safe by calling 811 prior to the start of any digging project.

“With spring here, and home and business owners eager to start their outdoor projects, New Jersey Natural Gas reminds everyone to call 811 before they start any digging, no matter the size of the project” said John Wyckoff, vice president of energy delivery at New Jersey Natural Gas. “The leading cause of pipeline incidents is third-party damage, which can put people and homes at risk. It is critical for our customers and community members to be aware anyone doing work can keep themselves and their communities safe by simply calling 811 – not only is it free, it’s also the law.”

Failing to call 811 often results in careless digging, disrupting vital services, property and environmental damage, repair costs, fines and even injuries. According to the Common Ground Alliance, every nine minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone decided to dig without first calling 811.

Dialing 811 will connect you to New Jersey One Call, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of your intent to dig. Professional locators

will then visit the dig site to mark the approximate locations of underground utilities with flags, paint or both. Yellow indicates a natural gas line.

During National Safe Digging Month, and throughout the year, NJNG encourages homeowners to take the following steps before digging:

• Always call 811 at least three, but not more than 10, business days prior to the start of digging, regardless of the depth of the dig or your familiarity with the property.

• Before digging, confirm the markout has taken place. Yellow indicates the presence of underground natural gas lines.

• Respect all markings. Take a photo of the markout because inclement weather may wash away painted markings. Maintain the marks until no longer necessary and move the location of your project if it is near utility line markings.

• Dig with care and respect the tolerance zone –remember to always use hand tools to dig within two feet on either side of any marked facility and exposing the facility prior to using mechanized equipment.

For more information about 811 and safe digging practices, visit nj1-call.org or the My Safety section of njng.com.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Court Denies Reconsideration:

Temporary Restraints To Remain On Lakewood Banquet Hall

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

On March 17, 2023, Judge Hodgson, of the Superior Court of New Jersey entered an order denying the Defendants’ in a contentious case request for the Court to reconsider three of its prior orders. The case itself involves the roughly 40,000 square foot Lake Terrace banquet hall in Lakewood, New Jersey, which to date, has operated allegedly without the requisite land use approvals. Specifically, the Complaint alleged the property was approved as a school with an accessory assembly hall in 2005 and received a Certificate of Occupancy for same in 2007. Plaintiff alleges that the school has since ceased operation and morphed into one of the largest banquet halls in Lakewood despite failing to obtain any further land use approvals. The order comes as a result of R.C. Shea and Associate’s successful opposition to Defendants’ Motion to Reconsider the prior Order of February 3, 2021, the Order of August 10, 2022, and the Order of August 26, 2022.

The Court, in its February 3, 2021 Order, imposed restrictions on the use of the Lake Terrace property. The restrictions included: limiting events to a maximum of 700 patrons, prohibiting outdoor events, and mandating that all parking for events be limited to Lake Terrace’s own parking

lot. These restrictions were reinforced and elaborated upon in the August 10, 2022 and August 26, 2022 Orders, which specified that no parking for Lake Terrace events should take place in other property owners’ parking lots, nor should it take place on the street.

The Court heard Oral Argument on the matter on March 17, 2023. R.C. Shea & Associates, on behalf of Plaintiffs, argued that the Court, under Judge Ford, had previously heard, considered, and properly ruled on all of the substantive issues which Defendants brought forth in their Motion for Reconsideration. Judge Hodgson agreed with Plaintiffs position and refused to reconsider the substantive restraints issued by Judge Ford in the prior orders.

If you are facing disruptions to your business as a result of a neighbor’s potential misuse of their property, please give the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call for a consultation. (732) 505-1212.

South Toms River Recreation 2023 Farmers’ Market

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – The Borough of South Toms River Recreation 2023 Farmers’ Market is now accepting vendor applications. The market will be held on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 11 to October 26, located on the waterfront: 134 NJ-166 Mathis Plaza.

They are excited to be preparing for the 2023 Borough of South Toms River Recreation Mathis Plaza Farmers’ Market. They hope that your small business will join in creating a thriving market at this excellent location.

What kind of vendors are we looking to partner with?

• Produce

• Flowers/Plants

• Handcrafts

• Baked Goods

• Coffee

Specialty foods and beverages for home consumption

Commercial beverage sampling and local business advertising are welcome. (All health department certification is the responsibility of the vendor.)

Full Season: May 11 to October 27 (24 weeks paid in full before the start of the season) - $550. Payment plans available.

Partial Season (6 weeks or more) - $35 per week to be paid the first of each month. Must submit dates with paid application.

Drop In Vendor - $55 per day on a space available basis.

Request your 2023 vendor application by emailing strrecreationfarmersmarket@gmail.com or filling out this form forms.gle/pYGGaf4un2aNdXBr5.

Vincent J. DelRiccio, Esq.

Carmona ~ Bolen Home for

around the JerSey Shore

Ocean County Library Named Finalist For National Title

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Library is

one of 30 institutions selected as a finalist for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service.

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$1900

Package includes: Removal from hospital or facility within 25 miles of funeral home, all funeral home service fees, and required cremation container MCDDT-01.

Package excludes residential removal fee and Crematory charges.

Serving

Package includes: 2-Hr Memorial Visitation (during regular business hours) a complimentary select Urn, removal from Hospital or Facility with-in 25 miles of Funeral Home, all Funeral Home service fees, required cremation container MCDDT-01. Package excludes residential removal fee and Crematory charges.

The award is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. Over the past 25 years, institutions that have provided excellence service to their communities have been honored.

“It is an honor for Ocean County Library to be named a finalist for the prestigious National Medal and a testament to the dedication of our library staff to create innovative programs, services, and community partnerships to meet the needs of Ocean County residents of all ages,” Library Director Susan Quinn said. “One in 32 children in Ocean County are on the autism spectrum and the need for creative library services to serve this population became evident to us through our interactions with families and community partners. Ocean County Library embraces our ongoing role and responsibility to adapt to our community’s needs to fulfill our mission of Connecting People, Building Community, Transforming Lives. We are thankful to our staff, patrons, community members, Ocean County Library Commission, Ocean County Board of Commissioners, and local and state government officials for always supporting and championing Ocean County

Library.”

“To have been nominated for this award was an honor in and of itself, but to be named one of 30 finalists is humbling and something to truly be appreciated. Ocean County Library strives to create an atmosphere where every person is welcome, respected, and appreciated,” said Sara Siegler, Assistant Director and Project Manager for OCL’s Sensory Spaces. “The creation of our Sensory Spaces, one-of-a-kind experiences for our communities within our library system, has brought meaningful and lasting relationships. The Sensory Spaces are particularly helpful to people with varying degrees of sensory processing disorders, and we are proud to have been the first New Jersey public library to open a space such as this.”

“So many museums and libraries across the country are committed to providing programs that are vital to the health and growth of engaged communities. We are very proud to announce the 30 finalists for this year’s IMLS National Medal,” IMLS Director Crosby Kemper said. “These institutions represent the best of what museums and libraries do for their communities.”

Winners of the National Medal will be announced in late May. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during an in-person National Medals Ceremony this summer.

Cape May Bus Trip

TOMS RIVER – The Holiday City South Garden Club is hosting a Cape May Bus Trip on May 2 from 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Come enjoy a tour of the beautiful Victorian Southern Mansion and visit the Museum of Fine Arts and Pop Culture, shop and lunch on your own at Washington Mall. Cost is $73 per person for admissions and

Send

transportation. Tickets on sale now until April 17.

Leave a message to make reservations or inquiries at 732-341-4518 with Carroll or via email: cbaszkowski@aol.com, or visit the HCS Clubhouse on 139 Santiago Drive, Toms River on Fridays 9:30 to 11 a.m. to purchase tickets.

Just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches

For Rent

Floating Dock Slip For Rent This Season - Private home in Baywood area in Brick 25 feet $990 Call 732-477-3053. (17)

Personals

Partner Wanted - To open thrift store. Also need garage rental for storage. Leave message and number for call back 732-678-6786. (17)

Senior Male - From Essex County wants to meet people from that area to discuss the good old days. Harry 732-269-1206. (17)

For Sale

For Sale - $3000 or Best Offer: Two Grave Plots At Ocean County Memorial Park Toms River. Location: Garden Of Remembrance Grave 277 and 278 (Singles). Number Of Spaces: 2. We hold the deed, and this sale will be conducted at the Memorial Park's office in Toms River. All paperwork will be signed over to new owner's name immediately. If interested, please call 201-400-9433 leave message, all calls will be answered within an hour. (16)

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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (17)

Wanted Storage Space - Long term non-commercial use. Jackson, Manchester or surrounding area. Electric a plus, 732-278-5098. (16)

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)

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)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

Jersey Child Care is hiring! We care for children from six weeks through 12 years old. Full and Parttime shifts available. Please call us for details! 732-262-3600. (18)

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

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)

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)

Property/Management - Brick repair, brick restoration, mulch, stone, Spring/Fall cleanups, pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (14)

Services Services Services

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

Prepare

Male Care Assistant/Caregiver

Assistance - With all of your needs excluding hygiene. All daily routines including; Meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, safety monitoring, transportation, errands, Etc. Also assisting individuals with mild to moderate dementia and those on palliative and hospice care. 732-664-2833. (18)

ESTATE CLEANOUTS -

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)

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)

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:

$14.13

Send resume to: mgritschke@mail.ocvts.org. (t/n)

Services

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (19)

DIRECTV. New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (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 732-3504427 for more information. (21)

C.B.J. ROOFING - Covering the jersey shore since 1984. All work guaranteed. We will beat ANY legitimate estimate. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (20)

Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, A family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477. (t/n)

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

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)

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)

MASONARY REPAIR - Sidewalks, steps, driveways, pavers.

For free estimate call 732-5896798, 848-210-2716. (20)

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)

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)

AAA Handyman - Carpentry, Painting, Flooring, Doors, Windows, Trim, Plumbing, Electrical, Masonry, Tile. Affordable, Reliable. New And Repairs. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030. (16)

Computer problems? We can fix computers, printers, WiFi, networks, and more. njcomputerfix.com. CALL Chris at 732-575-3450. Located in Jackson. (16)

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)

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

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

Calculate Price As Follows:

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

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

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

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

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

6. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

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

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

around the JerSey Shore

Tasty Competition During STRE Cupcake Wars

TOMS RIVER – South Toms River Elementary held its first annual Cupcake Wars as part of the school’s PBSIS (Positive Behavior Support in Schools) family fun night initiative. It was a sweet success and will continue for years to come!

Thirty students and their families participated in the initiative and their creativity did not go unnoticed. Cupcake themes ranged from Dr. Seuss, Starbucks, mermaids, under the sea, spring/Easter, Disney, ice cream, popcorn, and more!

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Aside from each student and family receiving a certificate of dedication, five main awards were presented to students who scored the highest in the judging categories of most delicious, best presentation, people’s choice, most creative, and best decoration(s).

A special thank you to the judging committee composed of BOE member Anna Polozzo, STRPD Chief Kosh, STRPD Officer Wray Burritt, Gigi Esparza, Joe Jubert, and STRE teacher representatives John Phander and Jen Gallagher.

Ocean County Shrine Ladies Club - Bunco Party

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County Shrine

Ladies Club Bunco Party to support the Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia will be on April 23 at Holiday City Berkeley, Clubhouse #2, 631 Jamaica Boulevard, Toms River.

Doors open at 12 p.m.; game begins at 1 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and are

nonrefundable. Includes sandwich, chips, dessert and water. Gift basket raffle and 50/50.

Call for tickets: Rosemarie LoPresti at 732228-7617. Make checks payable to: OCSLC. Mail to: Rosemarie LoPresti, 35 Charlen Road, Toms River, NJ 08755. All tickets must be purchased by April 14.

Flower Power Garden Party Dance

TOMS RIVER – The Holiday City South Garden Club is hosting a Flower Power Garden Party Dance on May 6 from 6:30 to 10 p.m., BYOB, live music of the 60s and early 70s with the a.k.a Band. Come join for a groovy night of peace and love under the big event tent and don’t forget to wear some

flowers in your hair! Cost is $20 per person. Leave a message to make reservations or inquiries at 732-341-4518 with Carroll or via email: cbaszkowski@aol.com, or visit the HCS Clubhouse on 139 Santiago Drive, Toms River on Fridays 9:30 to 11 a.m. to purchase tickets.

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

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270 Atlantic City Blvd. ♦ Bayville, NJ 732.269.3100

Anthony P. Mastapeter – Owner NJ Lic. No. 3365

Marc A. Mastapeter – Manager NJ Lic. No. 4873

www.mastapetermemorialhome.com

HCB First Aid Auxiliary Seeking Volunteers

TOMS RIVER – HCB First Aid Auxiliary is in need of volunteers: They need volunteers to work with us (men and women). Open to the public not just HCB.

The job of the HCB First Aid Auxiliary is to work to raise money for the HCB First Aid Squad. The squad members are volunteers that spend many hours a week going on calls to help people in need of medical help. “Our job as an auxiliary is to raise money

so they can accomplish this.”

They usually meet once a month on a Monday at 3 p.m. at the First Aid Squad on Port Royal Drive. Their meetings only last about an hour. They organize fundraisers to raise money for the squad such as Psychic Fairs, Gift Auctions etc. If you want to keep busy, give us a try. They are a friendly group. All are welcome. If interested please call Linda Maddalena at 732505-6795.

MERLIN INDUSTRIES LINERS & SAFETY COVERS

Photographer Peter J. Magoulas took this photo at the Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township. Talk about being at the right place at the

right time! Want to see your photos in this space? Email them to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

Across 1 Technique providing percussion with a string note

9 Character in “The Iliad” but not “The Odyssey”?

3 Big letters in security services

4 Is far from a good sport

5 Perennial #1 NCAA football team since 2008

6 Even slightly 7 Fifth-cen. pope called “The Great”

8 Monkey’s do partner?

9 As well

10 Long way to go?

11 Look here!

12 Depressions

13 __ Jamison, one of two NBA players with 20,000+ points who’s not in the Hall of Fame

14 “From your mouth to God’s ears”

20 Rears

30 Synagogue text

32 Performs surgery on, in a way

33 Cambridgeshire cathedral city

34 Like a sure thing

35 Company founded in 1939 as Auto Avio Costruzioni

36 Key of Beethoven’s Violin Concerto

38 Submission to a radio station, briefly

39 Garden guardians

40 Will of “Blue Bloods”

43 Ice cream alternative, casually

44 Moved between banks, maybe

47 Berserk

48 Refuse

2

22 Feel bad about 24 Succeeded in 27 1992 Mamet drama 29 Three-time WNBA MVP

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

50 Amps (up)

53 Once-big storage unit that’s now quite small

54 Farm female

Crossword Puzzle

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of apr 8 - apr 14

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): When your bills are paid, you may feel free to make extravagant purchases, but it might be best to save up for items of higher quality. Capitalize on your good reputation to make forward progress but be careful not to overstep others’ boundaries.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Enjoy an active social life while simultaneously focusing on achieving your fiscal dreams. You can find others may want to bring you back to reality so it would be best to keep large scale dreams or plans close to your chest for now.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Ideas that may have seemed feasible a few days ago could have more complications than expected. You might have more on your plate: look at plans with a more discerning eye. Taking a step back can help you reflect and find the best route.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): An optimistic and enthusiastic mood can make anything seem possible. Review all the minute details with a partner or loved one and plan things carefully. This is not the time to trust in luck if you hope that important matters will succeed.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Appearances count so give your look a second glance. When you find yourself with a financial surplus, you could feel an impulse to spend. If you make a less sensible financial decision, think through a way you’ll be able to quickly recover.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Whenever you speak from the heart, you cannot go wrong. You might have insights to share that no one else has considered. Be sensitive to the opinions of other people

even if they seem much too demanding or pessimistic.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Extra sympathy and understanding may be needed to keep things running smoothly. Do not forget to offer encouragement and to explain your plans in detail. Offering unconditional love and consistent displays of affection can help turn the tide.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Strategize ways you can turn your good reputation into greater financial rewards. If you are willing to work hard, you can impress people with your integrity and may find making money can be a rewarding pastime.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep your ear to the ground. Someone might give you valuable input on how to enhance your public image or ideas to use to upgrade your reputation. Other people may inadvertently reveal their strategies and confidential information.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Address potential security issues that could impact your finances so you are not vulnerable to unwanted intrusions. This is not the time to borrow on credit or go on a spending spree that can create extra financial obligations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Use more gentle methods instead of force. Inquiring minds are curious and want to know more. You may feel it necessary to ask more probing questions, but someone could feel you are asking for intel that is none of your business.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Any unintentional evasiveness or refusal to be pinned down could be counterintuitive when business tactics are being discussed. You may spread yourself too thin when you would be better off spreading your enthusiasm on thick.

RAW ASPARAGUS MAKES A LASTING IMPRESSION IN THIS SPRING SALAD

By America’s Test Kitchen

ASPARAGUS SALAD WITH GRAPES, GOAT CHEESE AND ALMONDS

Serves 4 to 6

Note: Parmesan can be substituted for the Pecorino Romano. Grate the cheese for the pesto with a rasp-style grater or use the small holes of a box grater; shave the cheese for the salad with a vegetable peeler. For easier slicing, select large asparagus spears, about 1/2-inch thick.

For the pesto:

2 cups fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 2 teaspoons juice

1 garlic clove, minced Salt and pepper

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the salad: 2 pounds asparagus, trimmed 6 ounces grapes, thinly sliced (1 cup) 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled (1 cup)

3/4 cup almonds, toasted and chopped

Salt and pepper

1. FOR THE PESTO: Process mint, basil, Pecorino, lemon zest and juice, garlic, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor until finely chopped, about 20 seconds, scraping down bowl as needed. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in oil until combined and season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. FOR THE SALAD: Cut asparagus tips from stalks into 3/4-inch-long pieces. Slice asparagus stalks 1/8 inch thick on bias into approximate 2-inch lengths. Add asparagus tips and stalks, grapes, goat cheese, and almonds to pesto and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve.

(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) 2023 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.