2023-04-15 - The Jackson Times

Women’s History Program Revitalized Chamber Of Commerce Presents

Council Demands State Fund Schools Properly

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – May

or Michael Reina and members of the Township Council weren’t shy in expressing their displeasure at state aid cuts to the Jackson School District.

When the governor released his 2023 budget recently, several school districts, including Jackson and Toms River in Ocean County, saw some deeper cuts than expected.

Jackson administrators and Board of

-

Education members were already bracing for the expected $2.5 million cut; instead were slammed with a $6.2 million cut.

During a recent Township Council meeting, Mayor Reina said, “Council President (Martin) Flemming and I met with the Board of Education last week to discuss the shortfalls of Trenton. There is money being given to other school districts that are plus millions

(Fund - See Page 6)

School Counselor Honored By State Association

Education Day, Cheer Team Recognized

By

Vosseller

tificate from Mayor Michael Reina. “I want to acknowledge the Jackson Liberty High School competition this year 2023 accomplishments. Eight-time local champions, four local grand champions, next (Cheer - See

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – School

Superintendent Nicole Pormilli often notes at School Board meetings that the staff of the school district are

─Photo courtesy Jackson Schools McAuliffe Middle School Secretary Robin Linke has been awarded the Ocean County Educational Support Professional (ESP) from the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). She is among the winners that will be featured in the April edition of the NJEA magazine. talented, innovative and dedicated. Administrators shared that two of their members are also award winners. McAuliffe Middle (Honored - See Page 8)

─Photos By Bob Vosseller A woman plays the piano as part of the entertainment of a recent Jackson Chamber of Commerce event that spotlighted

Bob

JACKSON – The Mayor and Council recognized education and the Jackson Liberty High School Lions Cheer Squad during a recent Council session. Each member of the team received a cer-

─Photo By Bob Vosseller

The Lions received a proclamation for their successful season which featured a number of tournament wins.

Page 5)

Women: Continued From Page 1

member Samara O’Neill to spearhead a women’s initiative to focus on and support the successful strong women of our community. We had an invite-only event at The Edge Restaurant. About 30 people participated and provided feedback on what they would like to see at future events,” Canderozzi said.

He said, “it has grown to a four-person committee - Samara O’Neill of Porter Plus Realty, Bernadette Seda of Lakeland Bank, Sarah Cascarina of Creative Financial Group and Tina Clark of Santander Bank. They have just celebrated a successful first event of 2023.”

“Among the three speakers was historian Victoria Kunz, wife of Jackson Police Chief Matthew Kunz, who discussed women in history and the history of Jackson Township,” Canderozzi added.

“I am thrilled to have co-chaired this new initiative, EmpowHER Networking Group,” Seda said, noting that her fellow co-chairs are Tina Clark, Samara O’Neill, and Sarah Cascarina.

Seda added, “we aim to provide a space of support, mentorship, collaboration, and shared experiences. We wanted to give a platform to elevate the female voice, whether leading in their industry or just starting the journey.”

“In attendance were 55-plus successful professionals. The event’s win is attributed to putting ourselves in the position of our audience. We sought to attract how we wanted to be impacted by the content, and thus

our topic was born – celebrating women’s inner and outer wellness,” Seda said.

“We placed ourselves in the details, the beautiful venue – Mathis House, the food we chose, and the speakers. We utilized our Jackson Chamber online social media and personal pages to promote as well as the deep relationships we have within our Jackson community and beyond,” she added.

Seda noted the success of the event “is a reflection of our initiative, EmpowHer Networking Group, and the dedication of my fellow co-chairs who, in our own right, are successful women blazing our path within our industries.”

O’Neill said, “our EmpowHer initiative hit home with so many women the ability to network and build each other up from a place of encouragement and growth is something we all need a little more of. We need to focus on the positive in today’s times. Too many people feel that they need to bring someone down to build themselves up or look away from someone who is struggling or just starting.”

“That’s not the way. We need to build each other up, cheer for each other, encourage one another and let people know they are not alone and if they are feeling alone, they don’t need to be anymore. I love my fellow co-chairs and the differences and energy that we bring to the table because we all feel it, that collaboration and shared experience from young, seasoned and the like, extends to the professionals that join us,” she added. EmpowHer, fueled by the Chamber, plans on hosting quarterly events. The next is planned sometime in June.

“We saw a dip in membership during

COVID due to COVID protocols and of course a lack of events. With many businesses shifting to work from home models, we tried to identify those workers and invite them to be a part of our business community,” Canderozzi added.

Canderozzi said the Chamber has been making progress through a number of changes such as partnering with EmpowHer, adding an online renewal and new registration for members, having online registration and payment for events and creating a community calendar “that will support all Jackson events as a one-stop for what’s happening in Jackson.”

He added that the Chamber has also established a partnership with Jackson TV (JTV) a

“hashed out with myself, Samara, and Ethan Noble - the head of JTV. With their help we are building videos for business spotlights, new member intro, and special events.”

“The students are gaining internship-like experience adding to their resume and the Chamber has committed additional scholarship funds available to JTV students,” Canderozzi said..

Upcoming Chamber events include networking breakfasts that are held at 8 a.m. at Bubbakoo’s on Countyline Road on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Their next big event will be the second annual golf outing on June 12. For information about that visit jacksonchamber.wildapricot. org/event-5127908.

-Photo By Bob Vosseller

Victoria Kunz, left, was one of the speakers at the recent Jackson Chamber of Commerce event. Joining her is Lakewood Police Detective Sgt. Jeanette Shimonovich.

level national champions.”

The mayor noted numerous tournament champion victories before the presentation was made. “Outstanding, well done. Congratulations on a phenomenal job. Don’t stop - this is just another step in your future,” he added.

“I want to congratulate the Lions Cheer Squad for their team spirit and their coaches as well,” Councilman Nino Borrelli said.

Councilman Scott Sargent also congratulated the cheer squad on their “good job this year.”

“Congratulations to our cheerleaders. It is great to see them make Jackson proud with their accomplishments and congratulations to their coaches,” Council Vice President Steven Chisholm added.

Education and Sharing Day (April 2) was also commemorated, and Council President Martin Flemming read the proclamation. The day was established by the United States Congress in honor of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.

It calls for increased focus on education, and recognizes the lifelong efforts of the Rebbe for education. Since 1978, Education and Sharing Day, USA, has been proclaimed by the president each year on the Rebbe’s birthday on the Jewish calendar, 11 Nissan, which is four days before Passover and thus generally can fall between March 21 and April 21.

The Rebbe was an advocate for children and spoke about the need for each child to be given an education that would offer them the opportunities to succeed. He also spoke about the need

for education to focus not only on academic achievements but also on character building. His emissaries established a network of several thousand Jewish schools and educational centers in the United States and worldwide. The Rebbe often argued that the most important part of

a child’s education is instilling in him or her awareness of a supreme being and a law higher than mankind’s or “fear or love of a force greater than man.”

The President issues an annual proclamation which along with local proclamations calls

on citizens to follow the example set by the Rebbe and focus on education and betterment of society.

─Photo By Bob Vosseller Jackson Council President Martin Flemming at left presents Rabbi Shmuel Naparstek of Chabad of Jackson the proclamation for Education and Sharing Day during a recent Jackson Council meeting.

Per tradition, Rabbi Shmuel Naparstek of Chabad of Jackson accepted the proclamation from the Mayor and Council.

and millions of dollars.”

Councilman Nino Borrelli noted in his report that he had joined Mayor Reina and their former council colleague Alex Sauickie, now a 12th Legislative District assemblyman, “in encouraging Governor Murphy to reverse the public school funding cuts which will

have a devasting impact on tax payers with school programs and services in Jackson.”

“We lost $6.2 million in aid in our town alone...It is obvious that Republican areas in our state like ours are taking the brunt of these unfair school funding cuts. I urge our fellow residents to call the Governor’s office at 609-292-6000 or e-mail the governor on the State of New Jersey governor’s website to urge him and his administration to stop playing partisan politics and reverse these

cuts backing up his rhetoric to make a stronger and fairer New Jersey,” Borrelli added.

“A bright spot was recently announced through a court rule that the State of New Jersey now has to consider transportation costs when calculating state education funding for school districts. Bussing is a big and growing issue in Jackson and this would greatly help.

It would be nice but I’ll believe it when I see it,” the councilman added.

Borrelli said, “ultimately our state won’t

turn the corner until our public school funding formula is fixed.”

Council Vice President Steven Chisholm said “a lot of people have a tendency to not pay attention to what is going on in Trenton. The (income) taxes we send out, those dollars go to Trenton. Some of them come back to local towns; many of those are getting redistributed to other towns.”

“It is not going back to our citizens and not aiding our children. We have been cut almost $19 million over the course of about four years. If that is the case, how is it that we can’t find that money in King Philip’s budget? Since he has taken office (a short or long five and half years depending how you look at it), he has raised his budget almost $15 billion, that’s billion with a B, dollars,” Chisholm added.

The councilman said the governor, “can’t find $19 million to give us back our tax dollars? He has not found any shortages of places to spend or waste that money. That is a 43% increase. If you had a $250 billion budget maybe $15 wouldn’t be that much. That is a dramatic increase. This is what we’re stuck with. Mr. Murphy didn’t think it was all that much when he released $25 million to bail out more of his Goldman Sachs buddies in the Silicon Valley Bank which is belly up due to mismanagement.”

“You need to be on the phone with your legislators and your governor and demand better from them,” Chisholm added.

“To step on what Councilman Chisholm said, CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) money is still sitting in the coffers somewhere that they refuse to release,” Mayor Reina added.

The CARES Act established the Coronavirus Relief Fund and appropriated $150 billion to the fund.

Under the law, the fund is to be used to make payments for specified uses to states and certain local governments; the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories (consisting of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands); and Tribal governments.

Mayor Reina said, “I don’t know why the NJEA (New Jersey Education Association) is not stepping forward as every child deserves a proper education and should be funded the same. Level the playing field, governor, and make sure all of our children get a proper education.”

Tornado Reminds Us To Be Prepared

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

JACKSON - What a shock it was for a tornado to hit Jackson. Like many others, I was away from home at the time, coincidentally at a benefit at one of Jackson’s fire companies, and had to make a difficult trip back to ensure my family was safe. The same firefighting personnel I was with went right to work and spent hours operating in tough conditions to keep people safe.

The tornado was classified by the National Weather Service (NWS) as an EF2, meaning it had winds reaching up to 130 miles per hour. At least one report said over 9,000 residents lost power. Crosswicks, Upper Freehold, Howell, Sea Girt, Cinnaminson and Mays Landing were also hit by tornadoes the same day.

As a Jackson resident, the familiar names of neighborhoods and roads directly hit by the tornado make this incident especially chilling. The tornado touched down

near Patterson Road, and continued across homes on Stonehenge Court and along West Commodore Boulevard, according to the NWS and state and local agencies.

It apparently strengthened to EF2 intensity as it proceeded to a new large warehouse development, which it partially collapsed. It then traveled across Diamond Road and back along West Commodore Road, and into the homes around Indiero Lane and Oaktree Lane. That area saw the most extensive tree, pole and power line damage, with hundreds of trees and poles downed or snapped.

The tornado appeared to weaken south of West Commodore, and its path ended before reaching the Land O Pines Mobile Home Park.

I applaud the fast and effective response from township, county and state authorities. But this dangerous incident is a reminder to be as prepared as possible for another one. To do that, I’m working on new state laws that will help in future storm events.

Shortly after Hurricane Ian hit Florida

last year – and just before the 10th anniversary of Superstorm Sandy’s landfall, the state’s worst natural disaster – I introduced a storm-related bill package. These three bills would help state residents and businesses prepare for weather events and recover from them.

After Sandy hit our state, about 30,000 residents were displaced from their homes in Ocean County, more than in any other New Jersey county. Statewide, as many as 82,000 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and 2.6 million residents lost power, with a third of them going without electricity for at least a week.

That’s why I want to incentivize taxpayers to install whole-house backup generators at their primary residence well in advance of any significant outage. My bill (A-4732) provides a state income tax deduction for the costs of buying and installing a backup generator.

This can literally save lives by providing power needed to preserve important medication and run or recharge necessary medical devices. For those who have to refrigerate insulin, or have apnea monitors – sometimes needed for infants – or oxygen delivery devices, for example, a

backup generator should be considered a priority.

Another bill I introduced (A-333) would address steep household costs due to a loss of power. It would require electric companies to reimburse residential or commercial customers who have outages lasting more than 48 hours for the cost of spoiled food, prescription medicine, or perishable goods. Residents could receive up to $540 and businesses could recoup as much as $10,700.

The third bill (A-4731) would enable public utilities and cable, internet and cell phone companies to operate more efficiently during and after emergencies by using drones to assess and maintain critical infrastructure. The state would have to adopt rules, in accordance with federal laws and regulations, permitting the use of unmanned aircraft for this purpose.

Getting this bill package passed ahead of the next serious weather event is crucial to our security, safety and resilience. We need to be prepared for strong storms and, as we now know, even a tornado.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 13 other towns in the State Assembly.

Congressman Slams American Company For Selling DNA Collection Kits To China

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At a congressional hearing, Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th), Chairman of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), called on the United States and international community to immediately step up efforts to combat the Chinese Communist Party’s genocide against the people of Tibet and hold its enablers to account, including and especially American company Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Chaired by Smith, the March 28th hearing included compelling testimony from Richard Gere - the renowned actor and Golden Globe winner who serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the International Campaign for Tibet - as well as the Sikyong, or head, of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile.

“All of us need to do a better job exposing and reversing - or at least mitigating - the ugly, hate-filled campaign by the Chinese Communist Party to erase an entire people - the people of Tibet,” said Smith, who has chaired over 85 congressional hearings and markups on China’s egregious human rights abuses.

“Biometric data - DNA and iris scans - of over a million Tibetans have been harvested and stored by the CCP,” said

Smith. “Blood samples were drawn even from children in kindergarten.”

“And you know what is even more shocking?” continued Smith.

“It is the role of an American company, Thermo Fisher Scientific in this genetic data collection and genetic surveillance program,” said Smith, who sent a bipartisan letter with his fellow CECC Co-Chairs to the company’s President and CEO Marc Casper in December 2022 asking him why DNA kits and DNA sequencer replacement parts were still being sold directly by his company to police in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) for use and abuse in collecting biometric data.

According to the Wall Street Journal , Thermo Fisher announced it would stop selling or servicing genetic sequencers in February 2019 “as consistent with Thermo Fisher’s values, ethics code and policies,” but a 2021 New York Times investigation revealed police were still purchasing their equipment.

In his testimony, Gere pointed to reports that found China’s police may have gathered between 920,000 to 1,200,000 DNA samples in the TAR over the past six years, including by taking blood from children as young as five without their parents’ consent.

“China’s surveillance no longer halts at the Tibetan border,” said Gere. “The CCPs techno-authoritarianism and fear tactics extend to Tibetan communities abroad. This oppression is being perpetrated behind a digital iron curtain to hide reality on the ground. The development of these systems of repression, reaching all the way around the world, reflects the lengths the CCP will go to dismantle the Tibetan civilization.”

The Sikyong testified that “to speed up assimilation, large-scale forced relocation of Tibetans from their traditional homeland to Chinese territories and within Tibet, mass transfer of Tibetan youths to China for labor and incentivized migration of Han Chinese into Tibet are being carried out. Moreover, Tibetan children across Tibet are not only being coerced into colonial boarding schools but transferred to areas across China on a massive scale.”

According to a 2021 report by Tibet Action International, 80 percent of children in the TAR are educated in a massive system of colonial boarding schools, separated from their families and culture as part of the CCP’s forced assimilation of ethnic and religious minority groups.

And a 2022 State Department report

found the CCP also effectively placed Tibetan Buddhism under central government control and subjected Tibetan women to “coerced abortion or forced sterilization.”

Smith’s hearing - entitled “Preserving Tibet: Combating Cultural Erasure, Forced Assimilation and Transnational Repression” - also included expert testimony from Lhadon Tethong, Director of the Tibet Action Institute, and Tenzin Dorjee, Senior Research and Strategist at the Tibet Action Group.

“China is committing genocide in Tibet,” said Tethong, “and has been working for decades to change history, to distort and obscure the present situation on the ground so as to erase Tibet from the world stage, both in the past and in the present.”

“The US, and the West in general, has conceded so much ground to China in the last three decades and moved the equilibrium so far toward Beijing’s baseline,” said Dorjee. “It is time to liberate ourselves from the tragically misguided notion that sweeping human rights under the rug would somehow make China more likely to cooperate on issues of geopolitical interest.”

Honored: Continued From Page 1

School Secretary Robin Linke recently learned that she has been awarded the Ocean County Educational Support Professional (ESP) from the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA).

McAuliffe Principal Debra Phillips said Linke “will be featured with other winners

across the state in the April edition of the NJEA magazine.”

The school district also received some good news about another staff member Jean Ciner, a school counselor from Jackson Memorial High School and “this year’s Counselor of the Year for Ocean County.”

Dana Karas, who serves as the Professional Recognition Chair of NJ School Counselor Association (NJSCA), contacted the administration to let them know about Ciner.

“NJSCA honored school counselors from the different counties within the State of New Jersey at the annual Counselor of the County Awards Program. School counselors are nominated by their colleagues and are selected by their own county’s School Counselor Associations for this award,” Karas said.

She explained that the award honors the professionals who devote their careers to serving as advocates – and often lifesavers

– for the nation’s students.

Karas said “candidates are selected for the Counselor of the County Award at their county-level school counselor associations. They are selected because of their ability to deliver an effective school counseling program which focuses on academic development, career counseling, and personal/ social support.”

“They further distinguish themselves by proving to be leaders of systemic change, advocates for students, and collaborative professionals who seek the success of the ‘whole’ student in school and in life. For more specific information about the NJSCA, visit: njsca.org

Meals On Wheels Program Recognized

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON –

Mayor

Michael Reina

honored the Meals on Wheels of Ocean County program with a proclamation during a recent Township Council meeting.

The mayor read the proclamation noting the history of the program dating back to March of 1972 under President Richard Nixon that amended the “older Americans Act of 1965 to include a national nutrition program for individuals 60 years old and older.”

“For over five decades this landmark law has helped community-based organizations like Meals on Wheels and is still the only federal program designed specifically to meet the nutritional and social needs of older adults,” the mayor said in his proclamation.

The program combats malnutrition and social isolation, enable independence and improve health for years to come. He noted such programs in Ocean County have served communities for 48 years.

The mayor added, “employees from Meals on Wheels of Ocean County are the backbone of the program and not only deliver delicious meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities who are at significant risk of hunger and isolation but also show caring and concern to their welfare.”

He said their helps prevent unnecessary falls, hospitalizations, loneliness and premature institutionalizations “and deserves recognition in the central services they have provided especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, inclement weather and other emergencies.”

The proclamation also noted that the senior population in Ocean County is “increasing substantially and actions are needed to support Meals on Wheels in Ocean County from federal and state and local funding. Donations and raising awareness to ensure these vital services can continue to be delivered for years to come,” the mayor added.

Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption

JACKSON – Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Sweet Coco came into the rescue very pregnant. She had all of her babies and they went off to their forever homes so now it’s her turn! She’s super sweet and loves to be pet. She doesn’t mind other cats and toler-

ates dogs. She is spayed, up to date on all medical and microchipped.

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then find homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages. While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes

To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfinder. com.

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

─Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

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C ommunity n ew S

Summer Camp 2023

JACKSON – Program dates: July 3 to August 18, Monday through Friday (no camp July 4).

Camp location: Jackson Memorial High School.

Vosseller

Send

Manager Laura Hoban Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano

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Designer Sara Zorns

news@jerseyshoreonline.com

Registration will not be accepted after camp begins. Children must be registered to be engaged in any activity. There is not a nurse on site during camp. Registration fee is for the entire 7-weeks.

Children will be grouped as follows:

• K & 1st graders

• 2nd & 3rd graders

• 4th & 5th graders

• 6th, 7th & 8th graders (grade currently enrolled in)

Camp Only: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• 1st child $500

• 2nd child $475

• 3rd child $450

With Morning Care: 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• 1st child $575

• 2nd child $550

• 3rd child $525

With After Care: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• 1st child $600

• 2nd child $575

• 3rd child $550

Full Day: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• 1st child $675

• 2nd child $650

• 3rd child $625

Trip information: trips are optional; trips are subject to availability; trip fees are not included in registration fee; no trip refundsif child does not attend, disciplinary action, suspension or withdrawn from camp; trips are non-transferable; once camp begins trip sign ups can only be done at camp, if they are open. Payment must be made at the time of registration

Refund information: $10 fee per refund/ deducted from refund; no refunds after program begins; if the township cancels a trip a full refund will be issued; refunds are done by voucher and take approximately 4 to 6 weeks; $5 credit card fee is non -refundable; refunds cannot go back onto your credit card; if you are notified that your child has to quarantine due to COVID, and was scheduled for a trip, you will be offered a credit or a refund for the trip(s) only Register beginning march 1 at: register. communitypass.net/Jackson. There is a $5 fee per transaction when paying online with a credit card - $25 additional fee for non-residents. After June 20, a $50 late registration fee per family.

Made In Ocean County

NEW EGYPT – Join on May 20 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the New Egypt Flea Market. Come and shop Ocean County’s Best of the Best! Dozens of local vendors and handmade makers with products made in Ocean County for sale.

Art, home décor, baked goods, jewelry gifts, soaps, candles, produce food trucks & more! There is something for everyone at this free event. Shop local & shop made in Ocean. Leashed pets are welcome too.

If you are interested in attending as a vendor, apply via the online application at newegyptfleamarket.com. To apply for this event as a vendor, you must be a resident of Ocean County.

Bubbles 4 Autism At Regional Day School

JACKSON – Manchester’s Regional Day School took part in an international effort to raise awareness of autism and its spectrum of disorders by blowing bubbles as a part of Bubbles 4 Autism.

The entire school took the beautiful day as a great opportunity to take some time out and gather together to enjoy the experience!

April is Autism Awareness Month making Bubbles 4 Autism a welcome initiative that continues to support and spread awareness and acceptance. Bubbles can be symbols of joy, hope, and laughter, which bring people together and makes playing with bubbles a welcome great activity for all children and kids at heart!

Westlake Veterans Club 2nd Annual Golf Outing

JACKSON – Join the Westlake Veterans Club for their 2nd Annual Golf Outing on September 18 at the Westlake Golf and Country Club, 1 Pine Lake Circle, Jackson for a day of golf and to support fundraising to provide a service dog for a needy veteran as well as other veteran as -

sistance in the greater Ocean County area. Become a sponsor, register for a foursome, or register as a single player. There are multiple ways to support, and give back to the community. To learn more or to register charitygolftoday.com/westlakeveterans.

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

─Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

A Look Back Through History

New Egypt Historical Society President Stacey Reed is seen reading The New Egypt Press as she joins fellow members of the organization during a recent Wednesday afternoon at the group’s museum on Evergreen Road. Members

gather on most Wednesdays to look over artifacts and other materials like the archives of The New Egypt Press - a weekly newspaper that served Plumsted Township and some surrounding communities for generations.

Book Donation Drop-Off

JACKSON – Jackson Friends of the Library is hosting a book donation drop-off on April 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jackson Branch meeting room. Accepting

Send

books, DVDs, CDs. Staff will be on hand to help you. Profits from the sale of donated materials will benefit programs at the Jackson Branch,

─Photo courtesy New Egypt Historical Society

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

Medicare Advantage Plans May Be A Disadvantage!

The carnival barking celebrities are relentless on television. They attempt to persuade you to call to check your zip code with a promise of getting money put back into your monthly social security check when you sign up for the XYZ Medicare Advantage Plan.

Extra benefits are touted over and above regular Medicare at no cost to you. The problem is the taxpayer price tag is enormous and quality of benefits is putrid.

A couple decades ago, Federal legislation was passed to improve quality of health care and lower the cost through Medicare Advantage plans. Insurance companies are required to report financial data to State regulators. Today, it is estimated close to fifty percent of Medicare eligible policyholders have signed up for a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan.

An investigative article was published in the October 22nd, 2022 The New York Times. It was reported that nine out of ten MA providers were found to have committed and been accused of fraud. These private sector MA alternatives were supposed to be better than regular Medicare. They are not.

The MA companies inflated profits and received more money from the Federal government by reporting many patients more sick (increased number of diagnosis codes) with these over-diagnoses garnering higher payments. The Federal government spends as much on MA payouts as in funding the Army and Navy.

The $12-25 billion in overpayments are enough to cover hearing and vision for all individuals over the age of 65.

Federal expenditures for MA total more than budgeted for NASA, CHIP (children’s insurance), U.S. Customs & Border Protection, FBI, EPA, and the Federal prison system.

MA limits choice of physicians, specialists, and hospitals within a smaller network for coverage and payment. Additionally, policyholders must jump through hoops to acquire required care for their anomaly. Annual profit per enrollee for MA insurer is close to $2300. The MA program looks to pay out less money, restrict access to care, and gives providers a lower reimbursement.

For hearing aid benefits, an MA plan utilizes a third-party administrator. This company lowers the rate of reimbursement to audiologists to the bare minimum. This administrative company receives money from the Federal government through your Medicare payment and

your co- pay of $700 to $1000 per device, issues the hearing aids to the audiologist for your fitting, and 60-90 days later mails a service reimbursement of about 14% from the entire amount they collected. My own investigative inquiries with MA plans and administrative contractors, the actual dollar amount they pay is LESS THAN what is paid by medical assistance (MEDICAID) for the same service given to the indigent.

The MA model of providing hearing aids to policyholders encourages audiologists to get that handicapped patient in and out of their office quickly and sacrifices required care, counseling, aural rehabilitation, and computerized adjustments for patient success. “Best practices” are thrown out the door because dispensing audiologists cannot afford to spend the same amount of time for the 3rd party patient. The MA plan doesn’t typically have all manufacturers available and limits choice of product to be considered in patient fitting. Often it is a basic level hearing aid fitted with minimal care. From a business perspective, it is a churn and burn model emphasizing quantity versus quality.

Hearing handicapped patients are sacrificed. Dispensing audiologists are forced to severely reduce service and time to patients. In the MA model, policyholders are forced to lower their expectations because this is a race to the bottom mentality where the patient is neglected in product and continuity of continuing service.

Out of the delayed and low reimbursement (below the medical assistance fee schedule), to dispensing audiologists, they must pay taxes, rent, utilities, office costs, and attempt to make a profit to cover a salary. The patient may have 1-3 visits included during the first year of service. After this time period is up, the provider is permitted to charge $60 to $125 to $225 for every single office appointment lasting about fifteen minutes. The MA policyholder/patient may think they are getting a deal in hearing benefits. However, they will pay even more in the long run or avoid seeking the required hearing care due to the future cost. Your Medicare ADVANTAGE plan may ultimately place you at a DISADVANTAGE.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with informative information about your hearing care needs. Please visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

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!

The Power Of Lemon Juice: 7 Ways It Improves Your Health

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Lemon juice is a natural and versatile ingredient that offers numerous health benefits. In my article today, we will explore some of the many benefits of lemon juice. Most people enjoy a squeeze of lemon in their water and while refreshing, that only provides 1-2 mg of vitamin C. Lemons are thought to be a cross between the sour orange and a citron - two fruits brought to Europe from other countries. Here are 7 ways it helps you feel better:

1. Boosts immune system: Lemon juice is a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps to stimulate the production of more white blood cells to help you fight off infections and diseases.

2. Aids digestion: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which helps to stimulate the production of more digestive juices in your stomach. This can mitigate indigestion, bloating, and other digestive issues which in turn will improve hydration and energy.

3. Hydrates the body: Lemon juice is a natural diuretic, which means that it helps to increase urine production and flush out toxins from the body. Even though it’s a weak effect, it can help you prevent dehydration.

4. Helps to alkalize the body: Alkaline minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. By alkalizing the body, lemon juice is thought to help prevent the development of acid reflux, heartburn, and other digestive problems. That said,

lemon is sometimes a trigger for people with esophagitis and heartburn.

5. Supports weight loss: Lemon juice contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness. It can also help to improve metabolism and increase fat burning, making it an effective aid for weight loss. This will directly improve energy.

6. Improves heart health: Lemon juice is a good source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke, and improve energy.

7. Boosts energy levels: Lemon juice has a direct effect on energy levels. It supplies your body with a natural source of electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These electrolytes can help to replenish energy levels and prevent fatigue.

In addition to these health benefits, there are many other uses for lemon juice. For example, it can be used as a natural household cleaner, a natural skin brightener, and a natural insect repellent.

Overall, lemon juice is a natural and versatile ingredient that offers numerous health benefits and can be used in a variety of different ways. I love to make Agave Lemonade in the summer. That recipe is at my website under the “recipes” tab. Anyway, by incorporating lemon juice into your diet and daily routine, you can enjoy its many benefits and improve your overall health and well-being.

DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Around the JerSey Shore

Deborah Heart and Lung Center Hosting Women’s Health EXPO

OCEAN COUNTY – “Because YOU Matter,” Deborah Heart and Lung Center is hosting a Women’s Health EXPO on April 29 at the Toms River Clarion on Route 37 West from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This day, focused on YOU, features a full array of health, wellness, and fun activities. A wide range of complimentary health screenings – provided by Deborah’s expert medical team – will be available, including blood pressure, pulse oximetry, body fat analysis, sleep apnea, and peripheral artery disease. As well, physicians and health professionals from Deborah will be on hand to discuss test results, chat about any ongoing health concerns, and share information about nutrition, health, and wellness.

The specialists from Deborah will be joined by a variety of regional healthcare providers offering additional screenings and community services, including:

• Garden State Hearing & Balance Center

• Ivy Rehab

• Mental Mediator

• Ocean County Health Department

• Ocean County Office of Senior Services

• Premier Dermatology Clinic

• Priceless Photo Video

• State of New Jersey Unclaimed Property

• The Eye Professionals of Burlington County

• The Navigator Exchange Program at Center for Family Services

• Wells Fargo Advisors

EXPO participants will be able to shop almost two dozen vendors offering the latest crafts, cosmetics, jewelry, and home goods, as well as enjoying a chair or arm/hand massage from therapists at the New Jersey School of Massage.

The first 200 visitors will receive a swag bag and giveaways, and all participants will have an opportunity to win a designer handbag.

“It is vitally important that we gather women together to focus on themselves,” said Renee Bullock-Palmer, MD, Director of Deborah’s Women’s Heart Center. “Women often put themselves last on the list, but we want them to take some time out for themselves, pause and take stock of their physical and emotional health. We are so excited to bring this opportunity to Toms River.”

The Women’s Health EXPO is being supported by Event Sponsor Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson. Additional sponsorship support is being provided by Liberty Bell Bank and OceanFirst Foundation, with support from partners Arista Care Whiting & Manchester, Bayada Home Health Care, Hampton Behavioral Health Center, and NJ School of Massage.

Deborah’s Women’s Health EXPO is April 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Toms River Clarion, 815 Route 37 West, Toms River. Admission is free. For more information, call 609-893-3372.

Spring Ahead – Ready. . . Set. . . Go!

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

With spring arriving, we begin thinking about growth and changes outside our doors. The rejuvenation of trees, plants, foods, nesting sites, the birthing of many species – a spectacular time. The dormancy leaves us, for now. Here are some things to think about in preparation of the new season.

Safeguarding your home/storage units/garage: Fix those vulnerable places where wildlife can enter your house – animals are already looking for nesting places. Gutter cleaning, attics, roof repair, installing a chimney cap, closing open gaps around outdoor/indoor pipes, are all great ways to be proactive.

Planting trees/shrubs: Adding/replacing to help birds, squirrels, and raccoons. Remember, if they have somewhere natural to nest, they will be less likely choose your home. Flowers to assist bees and butterflies. When planting trees, choose sites away from your house as squirrels may use them as access points into your home. Tree/shrubs maintenance: Trim tree branches and shrubs near your house, as the overgrowth may give potential access to your home.

Cleanup: Those areas where debris is accumulated, making it less attractive to animals to nest in,

as well as rodents, insects, who are drawn to them. Windows: Windows can look like the outside to birds when the reflections of trees, shrubs, for example, appear on your window. As a result, some birds don’t realize the danger and fly into them, often resulting in death. Literally, billions of birds die annually from window strikes. How can you help prevent these? Close curtains/blinds as often as possible. If you are using bird feeders/ baths, place them 3 feet from the window. Further away allows birds to accelerate if they choose to fly towards a window. Hanging chimes that make noise when the wind hits them. Applying bird decals, white tape, or opaque film on the outside glass of windows. These type items are specifically designed for this purpose and should be available at garden centers.

Starting this process now will be something you’ll be thankful for later.

Remember - wear protective clothing/gloves when clearing spaces.

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

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Buying And Selling A Boat Are Fertile Grounds For Scammers

By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

If you are considering buying or selling a boat, then you should be aware that the market is full of bogus buyers and sellers. When it comes to buying or selling a boat, if anything seems unusual then proceed with caution. While fraudulent transactions apply to both purchase and sales, this article will focus on the seller’s side of the transaction.

If selling your boat is not difficult enough, these days the last thing you need is to encounter someone, somewhere, trying to trick you at least once, if not two or more times as you try to complete the boat-selling process. Because fraud comes in all shapes and sizes, it is not possible for us to focus on one type of transaction, so we will concentrate on the most common red flags. Obvious poor punctuation and grammar. These scammers crank out a thousands of their “inquiries” every day and many of them have a poor grasp of the English language. Also, pay attention to their use of multiple phone numbers (and/or multiple email addresses) from the same individual. Everything the alleged buyer asked about was thoroughly detailed in your listing. Some of these scammers operate through robo or computerized forms of communication like e-mail or texting. So, if the potential purchaser is asking you for information that is already in your listing then this should raise a red flag and you should proceed with extreme caution. Enlisting a third party to pick up the boat without the buyer ever having inspected it. Boats are not cheap. No credible buyer will purchase a boat sight unseen. A credible purchaser will at least obtain a boat survey, which is similar to a home inspection. In addition, most honest buyers will be present when the boat is picked-up, rather than sending an agent to do take possession of your boat.

$6,450

The offer to pay by cashier’s check and pick up the boat after it had been cashed. This seems like a reasonable show of good faith, but scammers have become very good at printing fake checks so realistic that banks initially accept them. It isn’t until days or even weeks later that the scam becomes apparent, and then the bank can pull those funds right back out of your account. Check with your bank to confirm its policy regarding final acceptance of funds.

Paypal or Venmo variation of payment. The phony buyer will ask for your PayPal ID in order to send you a payment, possibly for substantially more than the purchase price. Shortly after that, you will receive a fake confirmation from PayPal with your user ID for more than the agreed purchase price, and the buyer will contact you asking you to forward the extra money to a shipper. Again, you’ll lose whatever money you’ve sent.

An unwillingness to provide basic proof of identity such as a photo of their driver’s license. If they are who they say they are then there should be no issue with providing proof of their identity. Automobile dealerships will obtain proof of your identify when you try to purchase one of their vehicles. Strangers routinely share this basic information when they are involved in motor vehicle collisions, so it should not be sacred during the purchase of a boat or a car.

R.C. Shea & Associates is a full-service Law Firm. We are located at 244 Main Street, Toms River. Visit our website at www. rcshea.com.

Bulk Pick Up

JACKSON – Reminder to all Jackson

Township residents - bulk pick has begun!

Have your items curbside no later than 7 a.m. Monday of your scheduled pick-up.

Bulk collection schedule for all other zones is as follows:

• Zone 2 on April 17

• Zone 3 on May 1

• Zone 4 on May 15

• Zone 5 on May 29

• Zone 6 on June 12

• Zone 7 on June 26

• Zone 8 on July 10

They do not accept electronics, cardboard boxes, construction debris, hazardous waste, plastic bags, paint, etc. No garbage bags will be picked up! If you have any questions regarding bulk collection, call Public Works at 732-928-1311.

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!

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

Around the JerSey Shore

Ocean County College Hosts Holocaust Remembrance Week Events

TOMS RIVER – The Center for Holocaust, Genocide, and Human Rights Education at Ocean County College will sponsor a week of special events from April 17 to April 20 in observance of Yom HaShoah and the Holocaust Days of Remembrance. All events will be held in the Technology Building (#25) Lecture Hall on the Ocean County College main campus in Toms River.

April 17

• Not Like Sheep to Slaughter: Jewish Resistance During the Holocaust (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. and 5 to 6:15 p.m. Despite starvation, dehumanization and the “Final Solution,” many Jews in the ghettos

and camps throughout Europe participated in resistance efforts, be it spiritual and cultural, armed fighting, rescue activities, producing false documents, or joining partisan groups engaged in guerilla warfare and sabotage against the Germans.

April 18 • I Was a Hidden Child: The Maud Dahme Story; 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Our guest speaker is New Jersey resident Maud Peper Dahme. As a 6-year-old child living in the Netherlands, she and her 4-year-old sister were hidden from the Nazis. Ms. Dahme will discuss her experiences as well as her book and film, “The Hidden Child.” Prayer service to follow.

• Their Fate Shall Be Our Fate: The Righteous Among Nations (Dr. Justin Pfeifer); 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Whether smuggling and hiding Jews, providing false documents, taking in Jewish children, there were non-Jews from all denominations and walks of life who stand in stark contrast to the indifference that prevailed at the time and who risked their lives to save Jews.

April 19

• And Our Deeds Shall Live Forever: Uprisings in Ghettos and Camps (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Forcibly evacuated from their homes all across Europe to isolated crowded ghettos and eventually to extermi-

nation camps, Jews maintained their religious and cultural practices, educated their children, smuggled in food and weapons, participated in uprisings, and maintained and hid documentary records of the atrocities they endured.

• Creativity as Witness and Resistance: Art and Poetry by the Children at Terezin Camp (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 2 to 3:15 p.m. Theresienstadt, or Terezin, established as a ghetto and transit camp in 1941, was built by the Nazis as a “model” Jewish settlement camp for propaganda purposes. Despite congestion, hunger, and forced labor, educational and cultural activities abounded. This presentation will (OCC - See Page 20)

For Rent

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

Misc.

Comics Cards Show - Sunday, April 16 10 a.m. Elks Toms River Amvets. Writers, Costume, groovy toys, Anime, Mansa, crafts. Admission $5. 609-242-7756. (18)

Garage Sale

Garage Sale April 14-15 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 211 6th Avenue, Ortley Beach. New items, tools, collectables, antique, jewerly, silverware, clothing, trees, ALL MUST GO. (18)

Items For Sale

Dining Room Set - Like new, other items. 732-350-0190. (18)

68 International Step Van - Four speed, six cylinder, aluminum, clean, 110,000 miles. All guages work. $5K, Bob 732-774-9000. (18)

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. (21)

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)

OCVTS Part Time Administrative Assistant - Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $14.13 p/hour. 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

Home Health Care Aide - Needed for sweet elderly woman. Light transfer a must. Dressing. Simple meal prep. Holiday City. 609-349-0937. (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)

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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)

Garden Advisory: Experienced (Master) Gardener - Assists homeowners with garden planning & design, plant care advice, plant selection & replacement recommendations, container gardens, soil testing. 732-232-8144. (21)

Housecleaning, Painting, Shopping, - Laundry, window cleaning, also we do typing services and run errends for you and also help paperwork. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (21)

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

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)

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)

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)

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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:

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

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

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

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

VISIT

OCC: Continued From Page 18

discuss the art and poetry by the children interned there.

April 20

• Forests of Valor: Jewish Partisan Fighters (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 9 to 10:15 a.m. 20,000-30,000 young underground freedom fighters who escaped the ghettos and work camps fled to the hidden forests of Poland, Lithuania, and Belarus. They blew up thousands of Nazi supply trains, destroyed power plants and other military and strategic targets, and carried out complicated smuggling and rescue missions.

• Sisters in Resistance: Women Partisans

During the Holocaust (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 12 to 1:15 p.m. Although often known for their support roles in Partisan groups –performing camp duties and providing medical care - young women also fought alongside men. Others braved danger and death as couriers; sometimes disguised as non-Jews, they transported documents, papers, money, and ultimately ammunition and weapons across borders and into ghettos. This lecture will highlight some of those courageous women.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig, director of the Center for Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights Education at Ocean County College, at 732255-0400 ext. 2368 or abotein-furrevig@ ocean.edu.

Safety Reminder: “U Drive. U Text. U Pay”

TRENTON – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) today announced the launch of a high visibility enforcement effort to mitigate the menace of distracted driving. Between April 1 and the 30th, law enforcement officers will work together to enforce laws prohibiting texting and distracted driving.

In observance of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, HTS also announced a new iteration of its highly successful “Memorial” public awareness campaign. The new campaign will serve as a remembrance of all the victims of distracted driving and of the roadside memorials created to honor them.

“Public safety is my number one priority, and that includes safe passage on New Jersey roadways,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Our efforts to reduce distracted driving go hand in hand with the Murphy Administration’s focus on the safety and security of all New Jerseyans. Distracted driving kills – it is that simple. And the initiative announced today couples education with enforcement - educating residents about the dangers of distracted driving and stepping up our enforcement of laws that prohibit it.”

Distracted driving has long been a leading cause of crashes in New Jersey. Data shows that driver inattention accounted for 49 percent of all crashes recorded in the State from 2017 through 2021 and 915 fatalities during that period. Nearly 23 percent of crashes involving a distracted driver resulted in one or more injuries.

During the month of April, police departments in New Jersey will be participating in the annual “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” distracted driving enforcement campaign. During the campaign, law enforcement agencies in New Jersey will join their national partners in a targeted crackdown on drivers who engage in conduct that takes their focus off the road, such as texting or talking on the phone.

“There is no excuse for texting while driving; you are risking your life and the lives of others,” said NJDOT Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “Each driver has a responsibility to all users of the road system to drive safely, and we will continue to do everything in our power to educate drivers on what can happen when they choose to drive

distracted.”

“During Distracted Driving Awareness month, motorists can expect to see increased police presence along New Jersey roads stopping anyone who is texting and driving,” said New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan. “The reason for this increased presence is to help deter and prevent one of the greatest causes of loss of life on our roadways, distracted driving.”

“Combatting distracted driving is always a top priority for HTS, but during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the Division has the opportunity to expand upon its critically important safety messaging and couple that with the ability to help law enforcement increase their efforts along our State’s roads,” said HTS Director Michael J. Rizol Jr.

It is illegal in New Jersey to operate a motor vehicle while using a handheld electronic device. Violating this law subjects motorists to fines of $200 to $400 for a first offense which could increase to $800 with the addition of three insurance points in subsequent violations.

To assist with New Jersey’s “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” enforcement efforts, HTS has provided 157 law enforcement agencies throughout the State with grants totaling $1,168,230 that pay for saturation patrols during the monthlong campaign.

In 2022, the distracted driving crackdown yielded more than 8,000 citations in New Jersey for cell phone use or texting, and almost 4,000 for careless driving.

It also marks the launch of the “Memorial 2.0” public awareness campaign that builds on the success of the original Impaired Driving Memorial campaign. The campaign, which ran from November 23, 2022, through January 1, 2023, generated more than 131 million impressions and was featured on billboards throughout the State, as well as through social media, radio, and streaming audio.

The Memorial 2.0 campaign features updated images to reinforce important safety messaging regarding the dangers and consequences of distracted driving.

For more information on the Division of Highway Traffic Safety or to see more of the “Memorial” campaign, visit njsaferoads.com.

photo of the week

“All Aboard The River Lady!” The iconic genuine paddle-wheel boat, which is set to start its 34 th season, was spotted along the Barnegat Bay near the freshly painted & renovated Barnegat Lighthouse. Photographer

United Way Golf Outing

WALL TOWNSHIP – United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties’ (UWMOC) 2023 Annual Tee-Off presented by Hackensack Meridian Health will be held on May 8 at Hollywood Golf Club in Deal. Registration opens at 10:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The fundraiser will benefit UWMOC’s mission to bridge the gaps to education, financial stability and health for every person in our community.

“I am proud to be a part of this event to benefit an organization that does such important work,” said Luke Bollerman of Bollerman Companies, Chair of the Annual Tee-Off Committee. “United Way has important initiatives throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties, and this event furthers those efforts, expands vital projects and delivers the resources our community needs.”

United Way invites local companies to showcase their business with a sponsorship for the historically sold-out golf outing. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and start at $350. Sponsors and golfers are encouraged to register early in order to guarantee their spot in one of the premier golf outings in our region.

In addition to becoming a sponsor, companies and individuals can support the 2023 Annual Tee-Off by donating silent auction items or purchasing raffle tickets for the chance to win 13 gift cards to exclusive restaurants in Monmouth and Ocean counties with a total value of $2,200. Raffle tickets are $100 each and only 100 will be sold.

For more information about supporting the 2023 Annual Tee-Off, visit uwmoc. org/annual-tee-off.

Spring Roadside Cleanup

JACKSON – Jackson Township Clean Communities presents Roadside Cleanup on April 22 at 9 a.m. at Jackson Senior Center, 45 Don Connor Boulevard.

Organizations will receive a $500 mini-grant. Space is limited to the first 25

registered organizations. This event is rain or shine.

For more information or to register, email ksevcenko@jacksontwpnj.net or call 732928-1260. Open to Jackson based nonprofit organizations.

Matt Baron was in the right place at the right time and captured this magnificent picture. Have a photo of your own to share with the world? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

40 One with a need for speed

41 Bread spread

42 Bro’s sib

43 Mexican state south of Veracruz

44 Local political gathering

47 “Acid”

48 Capricorn critter

49 Poker variety

51 Chosen groups 54 Watched 55 File format for digital books

59 Upscale restaurant’s offering

62 Christian on a label

63 “Marriage Story”

actor Alan 64 “We didn’t do it”

65 Tall tale

66 Itchy red area

1 Lavish party

2 Film segment

3 Many a Zeiss product

4 Shine

5 Toy retailer __ Schwarz

6 Meditation word

7 __ mater

8 Piggy in a crib

31 Hot rod attachment

32 Management bigwigs

33 Highly coveted violin

35 Right that isn’t right, e.g.

39 Paleo __

40 Tortellini topper

42 Five-armed ocean creature

43 When a football may be snapped

45 Springfield bar

46 Old Testament prophet

50 Exorcist’s target

51 Jacuzzi effect

52 Kylo Ren’s mother

53 Composer Stravinsky

54 Criteria: Abbr.

56 Best of the Beatles, once

57 Word on U.S. coins

58 At it

60 __ carte

61 Omaha-to-St. Paul dir.

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of apr 15 - apr 21

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You can look on the bright side even on the darkest day. Your optimistic and cheerful outlook can help make even anxious people feel relaxed. You will be delighted if you open the door wide when opportunity knocks.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): It can be easy to express your deep love and affection. You may experience an intense need to have someone by your side. A difficult situation could be sidestepped if you remain discreet and avoid emotional reactions to criticism.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You might be happier if everything is bigger and better, and when everyone benefits. You could be prompted to perform altruistic acts or to upgrade your goals. Ask trusted friends for advice if you want problems solved easily.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Step up to the plate. When it is your turn at bat, apply enthusiasm and you could knock the ball out of the park. Show maturity by forgiving those who may have made mistakes and by generously helping out your friends.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Show off your initiative, competitive prowess and leadership abilities during the coming week. If you dwell on past mistakes, you could hesitate to act on an opportunity. Join in with fun activities and actively widen your horizons.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Put any thoughts of business on the back burner for now. A romantic companion may start a conversation by sharing their passions or fantasies. Your goals and dreams may develop into a grand design that can bring you closer together.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You can get ahead faster if you put past conflicts behind you and focus on forgiveness and work toward a mutually satisfactory compromise. Ask for clarification if you are confused by assignments or need more time to grasp the details.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Your fairy-tale wishes might be fulfilled. A partner may awaken your feelings and invite you to join them on some romantic adventures. You can capture and use creative ideas or write down your intriguing thoughts for later use.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You may find it challenging to remain still if it seems like there is too much time and energy on your hands. Occupy yourself with constructive projects that offer physical activity and scope for your wide-ranging interests.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You could end up feeling too solitary if you are a lone wolf. Attend community events or family gatherings to find other pack members. This might be a good day to concentrate on togetherness and share your feelings.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Nobody is perfect, even you. Do not expect a partner or loved one to live up to standards that even you may not be able to meet. Aim for the best and highest without criticizing those who may not reach their goal. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Do not let an opportunity to possibly make a profit pass you by. You might find that luck is on your side when you need it. It may take courage to demonstrate negotiating skills, but you can be up for the challenge.

LEMON-OLIVE OIL TART

By America’s Test Kitchen

While most lemon tart recipes feature butter in both the crust and the filling, in this recipe we use extra-virgin olive oil to take some of the fuss out of your prep work. Simply mix flour, sugar and salt with the oil and a little water until a soft dough forms; crumble it into the tart pan; press it into the sides and bottom; and bake it right away. There’s no rolling or chilling required! Using olive oil in the filling as well allows the lemons’ acidity to shine through, allowing you to use a bit less juice than you’d need to enjoy the bright flavor if you had used butter instead. You also won’t lose any of the firmness or sliceability you’d expect in a tart, because the filling gets plenty of structure from the protein in the eggs.

LEMON-OLIVE OIL TART

Serves 8

Notes : Use a fresh, high-quality extra-virgin olive oil here. Make sure that all your metal equipment — saucepan, strainer and whisk — is nonreactive, or the filling may have a metallic flavor.

For the crust :

1 1/2 cups (7 1/2 ounces) all-purpose flour

5 tablespoons (2 1/4 ounces) sugar

1/2 teaspoon table salt

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons water

For the filling :

1 cup (7 ounces) sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon table salt

3 large eggs plus 3 large yolks

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest plus 1/2 cup juice (3 lemons)

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the crust :

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Whisk flour, sugar, and salt together in a bowl. Add oil and water and stir until uniform dough forms. Using your hands, crumble three-quarters of dough over the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan that has a removable bottom. Press dough to an even thickness in the bottom of the pan.

3. Crumble remaining dough and scatter evenly around the edge of the pan, then press crumbled dough into fluted sides of the pan. Press dough to even thickness.

4. Place pan on rimmed baking sheet and bake until crust is deep golden brown and firm to touch, 30 to 35 minutes, rotating pan halfway through baking.

For the filling :

1. About 5 minutes before the crust is finished baking, whisk sugar, flour, and salt in a medium saucepan until combined. Whisk in eggs and yolks until no streaks of egg remain. Whisk in lemon zest and juice.

2. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly and scraping corners of the saucepan, until mixture thickens slightly and registers 160 degrees, 5 to 8 minutes.

3. Off heat, whisk in oil until incorporated. Strain curd through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl. Pour curd into warm tart shell.

4. Bake until filling is set and barely jiggles when pan is shaken, 8 to 12 minutes. Let tart cool completely on a wire rack, at least 2 hours. Remove the outer metal ring of the tart pan. Slide a thin metal spatula between tart and pan bottom, then carefully slide tart onto serving platter. Cut tart into wedges, wiping the knife clean between cuts if necessary, and serve. (Leftovers can be wrapped loosely in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to three days.)

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

(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.