2023-04-08 - The Southern Ocean Times

By Andrey Nalbantov

OCEAN COUNTY –

As a powerful language model, ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize schoolwork by providing students with instant access to information, personalized assistance, and innovative learning tools.

Vietnam Vets Honored On 50 th Anniversary Of Peace Accords

Barnegat Plans Pre-K Expansion

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.

For the event’s organizer, Barnegat resident Thy Cavagnaro, showing gratitude to Vietnam veterans is a deeply personal mat-

ter. Thy said she was just a young girl when her family escaped the fall of Saigon and was welcomed to the United States 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,

e Pros And Cons Of Students Using AI To Write Papers

While ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for students, there is a risk of over-reliance on technology and a lack of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The previous two paragraphs reflected both sides of the ChatGPT coin, but they

also had another role in this article. Those two paragraphs were written by ChatGPT itself, when asked how it might affect education in both positive and negative manners.

Released at the end of November, the chatbot created and founded

by Sam Altman took the world by storm. By January the web app had reached a total of 100 million users, and according to a UBS study, it currently is the fastest-growing consumer app in history. Even though ChatGPT seemingly possess-

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

(Vets - See Page 4)

es all sorts of useful features, it also raises questions that are directly intertwined with the school system here in the United States.

For example: What can ChatGPT offer to our educational system, and are there any (Students - See Page 16)

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT – A planned expansion of the local school district’s state-funded preschool program is designed to allow for increased enrollment at the Lillian M. Dunfee School.

According to Superintendent Dr. Brian Latwis, a waitlist of approximately sixty students currently exists for the upcoming school year. The Department of Education’s approval of the district’s plans to convert existing space into two additional classrooms would make room for thirty new students.

“Construction costs are built into this year and next year’s Pre-K funding budgets,” said Barnegat School District Business Administrator Steve Brennan. “The work will be done internally to maximize in-house expertise and reduce costs.”

The local school board also asked the Department of Education to approve alterations to Dunfee’s Pre-K ADA lavatory. Under the grant program, approval of a “school facilities project” would receive a maximum of 40 percent funding from the state. Barnegat began receiving state-funding for the preschool program in January 2019 and initially used classrooms throughout the district’s six schools.

All Pre-K students were moved to the Dunfee after Barnegat Schools reconfigured in September 2020.

The increase in demand for preschool enrollment appears to be related to more people moving into

(Expansion - See Page 5)

–Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Preschool students planted a tree last year on the Dunfee playground that will grow with them.

–Photos by Stephanie Faughnan (Above) Veterans were invited as special guests. (Top left) The Barnegat High School Navy ROTC Color Guard presented the flag to open the ceremony. (Bottom left) Barnegat students played and sang patriotic songs.

Expansion:

Continued From Page 1

the community. State-funding numbers for the program consider enrollment numbers, meaning a surge in student population will increase funding.

This month, Barnegat Board of Education members authorized Brennan to submit documentation to the Department of Education to support the allocation of $4,521,371 for Dunfee’s Pre-K program.

District leaders have noticed some trends since the inception of the preschool program as students move on to other grades. This has allowed for the adaption of programs and alleviated fluctuations, particularly in special ed and more sensitive educational areas.

Public preschool programs have been shown to provide numerous benefits for young children in New Jersey and throughout the country. For example, the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) reports that children who attend high-quality preschool programs are more likely to succeed in their studies and enjoy learning new concepts.

Throughout the state, 234 public school districts receive state aid for their Pre-K programs, with 16 right in Ocean County. Other local districts have consulted with Barnegat school leaders to learn more about their approach to working with young learners.

Dunfee School Principal Jennifer Froehlich said that Barnegat was one of only two Ocean County school districts to receive a four-star quality rating from Grow NJ Kids; Bayville was the other. Grow NJ Kids acts as the

state’s quality rating improvement system and is charged with raising the quality of childcare and early learning across the state.

“This is the first time the (Grow NJ Kids) program was opened since COVID,” said Froehlich. “They said the highest score we could get was a four because of COVID restrictions.”

The National Institute for Early Education Research (NEAR) visited the Dunfee School in conjunction with their organization’s goals. The group conducts academic research to influence policy for high-quality preschool programs. Teachers do not know in advance if their classrooms have been selected for three-hour observations by the group. NEAR also provides an independent report to the Department of Education regarding future preschool expansion.

“Mr. Brennan and I were very proud that the Department of Education asked us to join some of their meetings,” Froehlich shared.

“This was because we were recognized as one of the leading programs in the county.”

A recent survey sent out to parents requesting feedback brought in a total of 83 responses. More than 85 percent of those who answered said they were very satisfied with the program and felt their children were prepared for kindergarten. In addition, parents reported seeing progress in social skills, academics, and language.

“It’s been amazing for my son,” wrote one parent. “He has learned so much and wakes up every day and can’t wait to get to school.”

District leaders expect the additional classroom space to become available for the 2023-2024 school year.

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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 fi nancial 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 fi nancial 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-

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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

2023 Congressional Art Competition Announced

From The Desk Of Congressman Jefferson Van Drew

Highschool Congressional Art Competition.

our South Jersey youth create and I wish all of our students the best of luck in the competition.”

Northfield, NJ office.

Submission Requirements:

WASHINGTON, DC

Congressman Van Drew (R-2nd) announced the 2023

“I am thrilled to announce to all of our highschoolers in New Jersey’s Second District that the 2023 Congressional Art Competition is now accepting submissions,” said Congressman Van Drew. “I look forward to seeing all the talented artwork

The First Place winner’s artwork will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, DC. The Second Place winner’s artwork will be displayed in Congressman Van Drew’s Washington, DC office. The Third Place winner’s artwork will be displayed in Congressman Van Drew’s

WHO: All highschoolers residing in New Jersey’s Second Congressional District.

WHEN: Deadline for submissions is April 28, 2023, at 4 p.m.

WHERE: Submissions must be delivered to the Northfield District Office at 1001 Tilton Road, Suite 101, Northfield, New Jersey 08225.

Senator Questions Incentives at Drive Up Cost Of Prescriptions

Capitol Comments

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 fi nancial 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-ofpocket 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 prod-

ucts 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 cre-

ating 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-ofpocket 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.

OFF WITH THE MAKEUP

Whether it’s the end of a long work day or a fun night out, most make-up wearers are guilty of sometimes going to sleep without taking off their makeup. Unfortunately, doing so frequently can lead to problems, especially when it comes to eye makeup (specifically mascara). When not removed before bed, tiny amounts of mascara can build up under the eyelids and create concretions, masses of solid materials that can erode the cornea and cause a good deal of pain. Mascara is also known for harboring bacteria, which can cause a multitude of issues from irritation to loss of vision. So, even if you don’t wash your whole face at night, at least remove your eye makeup before bed.

In severe instances, regularly leaving mascara on overnight can cause eyelid cysts. Comprehensive eye exams are important to determine if you need correction to see well and to maintain eye health. While some eye diseases have obvious symptoms such as red eyes, light sensitivity, or flashing lights, many serious, vision-threatening problems have no warning signs. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Failing to remove eyeliner before going to sleep can cause eye damage by rubbing off on your pillowcase and entering your eyes.

Senator Robert Menendez

EASTER CATERING PACKAGES

New Police O cers Sworn In

– Photo courtesy Ship Bottom Police Department above and beyond the call for service.

SHIP BOTTOM – At a recent council meeting, the Ship Bottom Police Department held their Departmental Awards Ceremony for 2022 and swore in their newest Officer!

Welcome the newest Officer, Jacob Stuerze. Patrolman Stuerze comes to us as a transfer from New Jersey Human Services Police. He is a 2021 graduate from the Camden County Police Academy where he received the Captain Thomas J McDonnell Award for demonstrating the highest overall achievement and core values that exemplify the standard goals of the Law Enforcement profession.

Patrolman Christopher Ford received the Officer of the Year award. Ptl. Ford has been with us since 2021 and has excelled in every aspect of the job since then.

Patrolman Mathew Chester received the Meritorious Service award. Ptl. Chester also joined us in 2021 and has consistently gone

Sergeant Kyle Jones received the “Sergeant Scott Barr” Life Saving Award. Thanks to Sgt. Jones’ quick response and application of his training, a life was saved and the victim has since made a full recovery. For those who don’t know who Retired Sgt. Scott Barr is…. in 2019 he, without regard for his own well-being, got out of his vehicle on the Parkway to assist a disabled motorist when he was struck by a passing vehicle leaving him with a long road to recovery for his selfless act of kindness. It’s only right we name our Life Saving Award in his honor.

Patrolman Alessio Rea received the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Award for leading the Ship Bottom Police Department in DWI arrests since he was hired in 2021. There’s no doubt that Ptl. Rea’s proactiveness in DWI enforcement has saved lives.

Skippere es’ Card & Game Party

WARETOWN – The Skipperettes’ Card & Game Party and Beachcombers’ Gift Basket Raffle will be on May 18 from 12 to 4 p.m. at the Skippers’ Cove Beach Club, 5 Bluebeard Way, Waretown.

Admission of $10 includes dessert bar, refreshments and chance to win door prize valued at $100. Contact Mary Mirabello at 732-614-8955 for tickets. Advance ticket purchase is recommended as attendance

is limited to 90 seats on a fi rst come basis. The Beachcomber’s Senior Citizens’ Club sponsors the basket raffle and will sell raffle tickets at the event. Bring your favorite card/board games or Mahjong, Dominoes, Rummikub, etc. (sorry, no bingo). If you’re not with a group, we can get you to a game table! Proceeds benefit Skipperettes college scholarships and Beachcombers’ charities.

Blood Drive

STAFFORD – Stafford EMS is sponsoring another Blood Drive hosted by Vitalant on April 20 from 1:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Squad break room, 365 E.

Bay Avenue.

Come donate blood and save a life that day! Make an appointment by contacting Joe Giberson at 609-548-6996.

Learn About U.S. Coast Guard Origins

TUCKERTON – Ocean County maritime experts Gretchen F. Coyle and Deborah C. Whitcraft will discuss New Jersey’s vital role in the formation of the U.S. Coast Guard at the Tuckerton Library Association’s annual Open House, 7 p.m. April 19 at the Ocean County Library Tuckerton Branch.

The Beach Haven notables will describe events and individuals that influenced the founding of the U.S. Lifesaving Service, forerunner of the Coast Guard, including a shipwreck off New Jersey’s coast and the urgent recommendations of a local doctor, William Newell.

Gretchen Coyle served as President of the Long Beach Island Historical Association and the Tuckerton Seaport Board of Trustees. She con-

– Photo courtesy Ocean County Library tributes columns to the Asbury Park Press, and volunteers at the New Jersey Maritime Museum. Former Beach Haven Mayor Deborah Whitcraft founded the New Jersey Maritime Museum, which is visited by thousands each year and has been a consistent winner of magazine popularity polls in its 16 years of existence. Prior to that time, she was the proprietor of Black Whale Pleasure and Fishing Boats. Their nonfiction account of the 1934 disaster on the passenger liner Morro Castle off Asbury Park, Inferno at Sea, is available at the Ocean County Library.

Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/events to attend this free program. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information visit the Tuckerton Branch, 380 Bay Avenue, or call 609-296-1470.

15th Long Beach Island Wedding Road Show & Party Planning Tour

MANAHAWKIN – There is no other event planning experience like it! Grab your family and friends this spring to tour, taste, an experience LBI! Multi-venue self-guided tour on April 23 at 9 a.m. For more information call 609-4947211. Check in Location: The Mainland.

Showcase Venues: Showcase venues are stops along the road show with vendors, tours, food, and more!

1.Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club

2.Brant Beach Yacht Club

3.Sea Shell Resort & Beach Club

4.Terrace Tavern

Tour Only Locations: Make a quick stop and explore!

1.Daddy O

2.The Gables

3.Hotel LBI – Closes at 3pm

4.LBIF

5.Station 117

6.Surf City Yacht Club

7.Tuckers Tavern

PAUL ORLANDO ffl dealer/owner

USED FIRE ARMS WANTED! ALL TYPES: COLLECTIBLES, MILITARY, ETC. Call 609-597-4646 OR 917-681-6809

63 east bay ave, manahawkin, nj 08050 new/used/military » buy/sell/trade pkfirearmsnammo.com

Local Pets Available For Adoption

LACEY – The Associated Humane Society shelter at the Popcorn Park Zoo has pets available for adoption.

Dante is such a happy puppy! He’s just 1 and a 1/2 years old and he’s a border collie/rottie mix that needs a fresh start in life. Dante was turned in due to his family just not having the time to devote to him. The poor guy is quite scared and unsure while in his kennel but don’t let that fool you... he’s an absolute ham when he comes out and gets to know you!

Dante is energetic, happy, bubbly, and he

never met anyone he didn’t like. He needs some training as far as playing goes as he can be a little bit grabby, but he definitely doesn’t mean any harm. He’s otherwise well-behaved, housebroken, good on a leash and he loves a good game of fetch. Dante grew up with kids and he seems happy to meet other dogs. He’ll be ecstatic to enter your life!

Call 609-693-1900, visit ahscares.org/ forked-river-adoptables/ or email: office@ ahsppz.org for an adoption application.

– Photo courtesy AHS

Creature Creation Project Captures Creativity

BARNEGAT – Barnegat Township School District art students are blending their imaginations and abilities to bring “monsters” to life.

The Creature Creation Project bridges grade levels as an example of the district’s “One Barnegat” approach. Students from Barnegat High School and Robert L. Horbelt Intermediate School teamed up for the artistic adventure, with the younger students drawing monsters, and the older students sculpting or sketching the same creatures.

The idea was inspired by the Monster Project, an international collaboration between artists and elementary schools to encourage children’s creativity.

For the BTSD version, 5th-graders in Maria Altomare’s class started by dreaming up creatures. The students were asked to draw their creatures and write a descriptive paragraph about them, outlining their personalities, characteristics and habitats – all the facts the high school art students needed to bring these imaginary creatures to life.

Once the 5th-graders handed off their creations, Barnegat High School advanced ceramic and drawing students in the classes taught by Astin Williams and Nina Polcino took the pieces to the next level. Creating sculptures and more refi ned drawings, the high school students elaborated on the 5th-graders’ ideas, infusing their own

Photo courtesy Barnegat School District touches to each creature. But the project didn’t stop there. Recording arts students then composed original soundtracks to match each creature, making the project even more of a sensory experience.

“At the end of the day, by doing this project, I want my students to see that art is fluid; art is versatile; art is interpretive,” said Williams. “The Creature Creation project has become more than just an assignment for us. It has become an immersive experience that we have connected with.”

The students from both schools came together for a special breakfast at the high school on March 28 to see the results of their collaboration. The projects were displayed from concept to reality as part of the high school’s art gallery. The high school art students got to meet the 5th-graders who inspired their work, and all the students will be recognized at the Board of Education meeting as the district continues celebrating Youth Art Month.

“To know that this project was inspired in part by our ‘One Barnegat’ slogan is just incredible,” said Superintendent Dr. Brian Latwis. “I’m always so proud of all of our students, but I’m constantly blown away by their continued creativity. We have the best teachers and staff who are always fi nding new ways to motivate and inspire our students, and this collaborative effort is a shining example of that.”

Li le Egg Harbor Township Library Fundraiser

9 p.m. and a portion of each bill will be donated to the Friends. Pick up a participation coupon at the library or bring this ad. For information contact the Little Egg Harbor Library 609-294-1197.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – Dine-In To Donate at The Grapevine Restaurant, 364 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, on May 10 sponsored by the Friends of the Little Egg Harbor Library. Join the Friends from 12 to

National Library Week

LACEY – At the March 2 Township Meeting, Chris Seminatore of the Ocean County Library- Lacey Branch was presented with a proclamation by Mayor Tim McDonald proclaiming April 23 to 29, 2023 as National Library Week.

The Ocean County Library- Lacey Branch provides the opportunity for everyone to pursue their passions and engage in lifelong learning.

During National Library Week the Township Committee encourages all residents to visit the local library to explore the wealth of resources available.

For more information on the Ocean County Library- Lacey Branch and a schedule of events, visit theoceancounty library.org.

Fired Up Car Show

STAFFORD – The Stafford Township Volunteer Fire Company is bringing back it’s Fired Up Car Show on August 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Come out and see dozens of antique cars in the parking lot on Stafford Avenue. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from our Ladies Auxiliary. For more information or to register contact Rico by email. Firedupcarshow@gmail.com.

Adopt-a-Tree Program

STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to announce that the 2023 Adopt-a-Tree Program has begun and runs through September 15. Visit staff ordnj.gov/418/Adopt-A-Tree to download the brochure and order form. Contact Rachel Giolitto at 609-597-1000 ext. 8509 or email rgiolitto@staffordnj. gov for complete details.

– Photo courtesy Lacey Township

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H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH • Dr. Izzy’s

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.garden statehearing.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!

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.”

DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Students: Continued From Page 1 potential positives and negatives that can be encountered?

“There are defi nitely some potential benefits and some risks with AI,” said Mary Cammarata, the Supervisor for ELA, Social Studies, and Fine & Performing Arts 5-12 from the Barnegat Township School District. “[The] potential benefits include opportunities to save time for both staff and students by creating outlines, and developing distractor answer choices for multiple-choice questions… while risks include students relying on technology to fully write responses and no longer using their critical thinking skills.”

Jim Barbiere, the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Human Responses at the Barnegat Township School District, believes that this enormously powerful tool can have staggering potential effects. Though, he adds that just like any other tool, this one will be as effective as the user’s ability to wield it.

“For instance, an AI bot could be used to undermine the student’s writing process if students use the tool to cheat and write their essays for them,” said Barbiere. “Alternatively, it could be used to strengthen the student’s writing process by offering different perspectives or providing text [for students] to then edit and revise themselves.”

Barbiere also believes that ChatGPT has a number of great uses that can be acquired by skilled teachers. He considers that the AI Bot can serve as a tool that can rapidly gather background information on certain topics. Furthermore, he says that teachers can prompt the AI to provide material for a variety of different levels, to differentiate instruction and meet the needs of all students.

“With AI, teachers are only limited by the constraints of their pedagogy and imagination,” said Barbiere.

Critics have said that there should be rules

Stealing:

Continued From Page 4 officials said.

Campbell surrendered herself to Ocean Township Police Headquarters on March 28 and was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.

On March 31, Garaizar surrendered himself to Ocean Township Police Headquarters, and was likewise served with the charge via summons pending an upcoming fi rst appearance in Ocean County Superior

regarding using ChatGPT in schools.

According to Barbiere, technology outpaces the ability to legislate it, so in order to give a better explanation, he chose to use the music industry as an example.

“In the 1980s sampling technology got ahead of copyright law so artists were able to sample copyrighted music for free until laws were written to prevent that,” said Barbiere. “So the lesson is [that] we don’t yet know what rules should be implemented regarding AI, other than the basic ground rules of not using it to cause harm… only after a new technology has become prevalent, only then will its full implication be understood.”

When it comes to a potential ban on the AI Bot in school systems, Cammarata believes that this is an uphill battle. She said that students should learn that this is a useful tool, and that teachers should carry the responsibility to ensure their students understand what it means to be ethical in regard to anything they submit.

As for some of the changes that ChatGPT can cause in the future for educational systems, Cammarata foresees that there will be a shift in the thinking about the type of writing assigned to students. She says that she has told her teachers to stop giving “Google-able” type assignments.

“The field of Social Studies has changed the most in some ways because now students can look up any information they want on their phones or Chromebooks,” said Cammarata. “Now students should learn to be practicing historians.”

She ties in her observations with a quote from “What Is Learned in College History Classes?” by Sam Wineburg, Mark Smith, and Joel Breakstone: “The study of history should be a mind-altering encounter that leaves one forever unable to consider the social world without asking questions about where a claim comes from, who is making it, and how time and place shape human behavior.”

Court.

Ocean County First Assistant Prosecutor Michael T. Nolan, Jr., and Ocean Township Police Chief Michal Rogalski acknowledge the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad as well as the Ocean Township Police Department for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.

The charges referenced are merely accusations and the public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Presentation At Gi ordtown School Museum

Somes will discuss Commercial Fishing on the Mullica River and Shipping to Nearby City Markets...A Lifestyle Long Gone.

TUCKERTON – On April 8 from 2 to 4 p.m., presentation at Giffordtown School Museum, 35 Leitz Boulevard, West Tuckerton. Horace

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

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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:

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.

F & 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”?

34 Total area?

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

Down

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

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

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!

Women’s Club At e Sur ight eater

STAFFORD – Join the Stafford Township Women’s Club at The Surflight Theater, 2 p.m. June 1 to see the musical “Steel Pier.” All are welcome. Tickets are $38 each, payable to Stafford Township Women’s Club (STWC). Tickets will be

provided the day of the show, at 1:30 p.m., in the lobby of the theater. Dinner at a local restaurant is planned immediately following the show; Each person pays separately. Call Laury Hamilton at 732407-2244 for reservations.

Photographer Peter J. Magoulas took this photo at the Manasquan Reservoir in

C

Pushcart Players’ Cuentos de Árbol

BARNEGAT – The Ocean County Library Barnegat Branch is pleased to host the New Jersey Theater Alliance’s Pushcart Players presentation, Cuentos de Árbol, at 1 p.m. April 1.

Cuentos de Árbol is designed for youngsters aged 3 to 12, bringing Spanish heritage to life, and engaging families and individuals for whom English is a second language.

At the center of a story is a tree that has sheltered, shielded and nurtured countless passers-by over many years. The tree’s caretaker, Arbolita, shares its stories with Tomás, a storyteller seeking new tales for his collection.

The tales include “The Garden of the Golden Oranges,” “Brothers Who Were Both Wise and Foolish,” “Juan Bobo (Silly John),” and “Caperucita Roja (Little Red Riding Hood),” with a spirited fi nale to send viewers home with “dancing feet, clapping hands and happy hearts.”

This event is part of the New Jersey Theater Alliance 2023 Stages Festival, made possible by support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey;

Oceanfi rst Foundation; Fund for the New Jersey Blind; New Jersey Manufacturers; and Customers Bank. See more about the Festival at njtheatrealliance.org/stages.

The Stages Festival, New Jersey’s largest theater festival for all ages, takes place annually in March, April and May, with more than 70 live and virtual performances, workshops, classes, and events designed to encourage interest in professional theaters through affordability, accessibility, and fun.

Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events to attend this free program. For more information, visit the OCL Barnegat Branch, 12 Burr Street, or call 609-6983331. See the full schedule of the Stages Festival at njtheatrealliance.org/stages.

Lacey Beach Patrol Now Hiring

LACEY – The Lacey Township Beach Patrol currently guards multiple beaches. They lifeguard open water facilities at Bamber Lake Beach, Lake Barnegat Beach, and Cedar Creek Beach that are used for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding. Lake Barnegat is also home to a unique experience called Wibit, which is an infl atable obstacle course floating in the lake.

Lifeguard Qualifications/Skills:

• Knowledge and ability to evaluate water conditions at our beaches to determine any potential dangers or hazards

• Swimming proficiency and comfort in all types of water conditions

• Ability to judge and evaluate evolving dynamics of individuals participating in aquatic activities to immediately assess their capabilities and threats to their safety

• Knowledge of on-site protocols, operational procedures, and safety policies

Education, Experience, and Licensing

Requirements:

• Certified Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certificate, or equivalent (includes CPR &First Aid)

Stop by the Lacey Recreation Department for an application or contact 609693-1100 ext. 2203.

Town Wide Yard Sale

STAFFORD – Have you been cleaning up, cleaning out and decluttering over the winter? Are you ready to make some extra cash for all that extra treasure? Then it’s time to sign up for the Spring Town Wide Yard Sale!

Stafford Recreation is excited to announce that they are adding a Spring Town Wide Yard Sale in addition to their September

event! Mark your calendars for May 6 and 7 from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Visit staffordnj.gov/409/Town-Wide-YardSale to sign up. Deadline to register is April 21. Note, the second Town Wide Yard Sale will take place September 9 & 10. Registration forms will be posted in early summer 2023. Questions? Call Deb at 609-597-1000 ext.8583.

– Photo courtesy Ocean County Library

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

(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.

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