2023-05-06 - The Toms River Times

Teen Entrepreneurs Impress Judges In ‘Sink or Swim’ Competition

Town Borrowing To Buy School Land

By Chris Lundy

Team Stylish Safety of Manchester High School (in alphabetical order: Madison Cubbison, Mackenzie Davis, Katelynn Grupposo, and Layla Petillon) earned $3,000 as the top prize winner in the Sink or Swim competition. Their creation was jewelry that could contact authorities in an emergency.

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER - Local teens took a deep dive into showcasing their entrepreneurial

skills at Ocean County College’s third annual “Sink or Swim” competition. Hosted by the college’s Entrepreneur Club, participants pre -

sented and sold their innovative ideas to a panel of judges inspired by the hit TV show “Shark Tank.”

As the event’s master

of ceremonies, Professor Chris D. Bottomley introduced the aspiring business moguls as they hit the center stage

(Teen - See Page 5)

Council Bonds $14M On 2 nd Try

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – A

bond ordinance borrowing money for road repair, vehicles and more passed at a recent Township Council meeting even though it failed the first time around.

The total money being spent is $14,700,510, which includes the town’s down payment. The ordinance borrows

$13,999,000 to pay for:

$7,819,000 for road paving, township-wide drainage, bulkheads, the 2023 Roadway Elevation Project as well as the Downtown Toms River Loop Road Project.

$4,385,000 for vehicles including dump trucks, a street sweeper, mower, roll-off truck, wheel loader, a tandem, pickups, 10 police cars, an

ambulance, and other equipment and computers.

$1,795,000 for improvements to various municipal offices and parking lots.

The first time this bond ordinance came up for a vote, Councilmen Justin Lamb and Daniel Rodrick voted against it. Councilmen Matthew Lotano, Kev-

in Geoghegan, Joshua Kopp, and James Quinlisk voted for it. Councilman David Ciccozzi was absent. Township Attorney Anthony Merlino said “Bond votes require a super majority,” which would have been five ‘yes’ votes. Because of that, there were not enough votes to pass.

Although all seven members of the Town-

ship Council are Republicans, there is a split. Lamb and Rodrick often vote together, and the other five often vote together.

The point of contention in this bond is that some of the money is going toward the “downtown loop.” Lamb and Rodrick are against building up the downtown, but the (Council - See Page 23)

TOMS RIVER –

In an effort to prevent more losses to the school district, the Township Council will be borrowing money to buy 16.6 acres near Silver Bay Elementary School.

The Toms River Regional School District has been hampered by a funding formula which has taken away state aid every year since 2018. For the 2023-2024 school year, they had been anticipating a loss of aid in the amount of $2,688,937. Instead, they received a surprise cut of $14,421,851.

A bill passed that allowed the district to get 66% of that cut reinstated but it still means there was a hole to fill.

Superintendent Michael

Citta asked the Township Council to buy land owned by the district next to Silver Bay Elementary School for open space. The land is located at 100 Silver Bay Road. On the tax map, it is Block 233.24, Lot 36, and a portion of Block 233.24, Lot 38.

The township is paying a down payment of $215,000 on the bond. The township will borrow $4,285,000 and pay off the principal and interest with open space funds. The township has an open space tax of 1.5 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. Therefore, the money for this purchase won’t be coming from municipal taxes.

“They’re solid for 20232024,” Mayor Maurice (Land - See Page 6)

25 Homeless Permanently Housed This Winter

By Chris Lundy

TOMS

RIVER – Just

Believe Inc. shared their statistics for the 2022-2023 season when they care for the homeless during the winter months, including

─Photo courtesy Just Believe Cots are set up in the Code Blue overnight shelter at Riverwood Park in Toms River. helping 25 of them find permanent housing. Just Believe is a nonprofit that runs the Code Blue shelter in Riverwood Park, which (Homeless - See Page 4)

charges.

- Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Homeless:

Continued From Page 1

opens its doors on nights when temperatures approach freezing. They were open 81 nights, according to CEO Paul Hulse. Although the park is in Toms River, the unhoused population comes from all over Ocean County.

They had 147 different people stay for a total of 1,620 nights. But it’s not just about shelter for one night, it’s about finding out what issues they are having so that they can be referred to organizations that help. For example, there were 75 referrals for various services. There were 35 people who applied for Section 8 vouchers. Eleven people found temporary housing. A rental car was secured

for one guest.

Ten people entered a facility for substance abuse or mental health. Three went to a sober living home. Five people relocated out of state. Six found gainful employment. Nine people were denied access due to behavior or needing a higher level of care; they were instead provided emergency housing elsewhere.

Hulse thanked Fulfill, A Need We Feed, and a number of local restaurants for providing meals. In addition to the big stuff like food and housing, there were also smaller things that helped people feel good, like getting haircuts or going bowling. Showers were provided by the YMCA.

About 2,500 hours were spent by volunteers, he said.

This marks “six years of Code Blue success in Ocean County,” Hulse said. These fig-

ures represent only five months of the year. “Imagine what we could do if we were open all year long?”

Nonprofit organizations and faith-based groups house the homeless because Ocean County leaders don’t want to run a shelter.

Fundraiser For Housing

Just Believe’s first annual 5K and 1K fun run will be held at Winding River Park, 147 Oak Ridge Parkway, Toms River, on May 13 at 8 a.m.

Proceeds will go to raise funds for a transitional housing project called Larry’s’ Home which will help veterans transition back into society.

Call Linda for registration and sponsorship information at 732-569-0643.

For more information, visit JustBelieveInc. org.

Field Of Dreams Summertime Dream Cruise Nights

TOMS RIVER – Join this summer for Summertime Dream Cruise nights once a month as we get ready for our big car show in October!

Summertime Dream Cruise nights are free to attend and open to everyone.

The park will be open for children to play, and there will be food, music,

raffles, giveaways, and so much more. Located at 1505 N. Bay Avenue Toms River.

2023 dates:

June 11, 5 to 8 p.m. (Rain date June 25)

July 9, 5 to 8 p.m. (Rain date July 23)

August 13, 5 to 8 p.m. (Rain date August 27):

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!

Teen:

Continued From Page 1

to demonstrate their design skills and creativity. The competitors also presented business plans as they advocated for funding and support of their projects.

A total of nine teams participated in the competition, which included students from Jackson Memorial High School, Manchester Township High School, Point Pleasant High School, and Toms River High School North. Each brought their own unique ideas and approaches to the table.

Several projects focused on using mobile apps or online platforms to support products related to health, well-being, and safety. Others aimed to address fashion-related issues, targeting either individuals in need or catering to those with significant disposable income.

After pitching their innovative designs, students faced the added pressure of quickly answering tough questions posed by four judges sitting in the front row. The powerhouse panel of judges featured Jim Mahlmann, the Director of Net Centra; Lori Pepenella, the CEO of the Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce; Ocean County College Law Professor and community leader Mark J. Mutter; and Katie Calabrese, the Director of Membership & Education at the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship.

Monetary awards to the teams of winners came courtesy of the Ocean County College Foundation.

In the end, one of the Manchester High School teams earned $3,000 as the top prize winner in

the Sink or Swim competition. Team Stylish Safety members Madison Cubbison, Mackenzie Davis, Katelynn Grupposo, and Layla Petillon said their product design would help reduce the number of people who felt unsafe.

“Our company is a jewelry brand with a lot more to it,” shared the team members. “We are looking for $150,000 in exchange for 10 percent equity of our company’s profits.”

The Stylish Safety Team said they planned to initially roll out rings, earrings, and hairpins that would come equipped with a discreet button mechanism. With a push of a button, users would have the ability to connect with to Stylish Safety app to alert designated authorities.

An added plus to the design would be the use of eco-friendly materials. The developers intend to work with manufacturers that recycle each metal and plastic used in their jewelry.

The judges wanted to know if there was really a need for the product and how consumers would activate it when they began using it.

The team emphasized the safety concerns faced by women, citing alarming statistics about sex trafficking, abductions, and kidnappings. Their innovative product provided safety features and was fashionable, making it an attractive option for their target market.

Natalie Raspciewicz and Alexa Sousa of Toms River High School North captured the $2,000 second-place award in the Sink or Swim competition. Dubbed Team Locked and Secured, Natalie and Alexa also focused on safety concerns.

“Oftentimes, as girls, we are told to always watch our backs and make sure to check what’s behind us,” shared Natalie. “But we

easily forget about what’s in front of us via our drinks.”

Team Locked and Secure said they came up with an idea that would allow users to conceal a test strip to determine whether someone had spiked their drinks. A locket would discreetly hide two test strips to doubly ensure the results were accurate.

As Alexa presented the prototype on stage, she told the judges they were looking for $100,000 in funding.

Once again, the judges sought answers to some questions that immediately struck them. Mutter suggested their product might require FDA approval; Pepenella pointed out the company could be held accountable if the results yielded false negatives.

“We are planning on running multiple trials before we go to market,” Alexa said. “We will also keep statistics and make sure the product works accurately.”

Team Huggle from Manchester High School secured third place and a $1,000 prize for their efforts. Their product was designed to help people who would benefit from getting a good hug – rather than giving one.

The Huggle body pillow features Velcro around each of its tips that fasten to the user’s body.

“We started this company to help solve problems such as people not being relaxed or feeling comfortable when sleeping,” shared Matthew Perez, Huggle CEO. “The arms of the pillow provide pressure to the body similar to a weighted blanket.”

After their pitch, Mahlmann asked Team Huggle if they knew a similar product was already on the market. The team said existing

body pillows served as their inspiration but didn’t have the same effect as they didn’t focus on hugging the user.

Team members also addressed using disclaimers to ensure the product didn’t adversely impact younger children.

“I want to commend your thoughts on the disclaimers,” said Calabrese. “They do make newborn products with Velcro on them, and it’s on the parents to ensure that it’s safe for the child.”

Despite not reaching the top three, Point Pleasant High School’s Team Pop Punk Rock Café still had a standout performer. Joe Mazzaro took the stage with a guitar in hand and delivered a compelling pitch for his team’s concept of a coffee café with a rock theme. His impressive presentation earned him the title of Most Valuable Player and the reward of three free college credits at Ocean County College. Bottomley delivered the event’s final pitch, highlighting the merits of Ocean County College as a stepping stone for those embarking on post-secondary education. Supporting statistics reveal that a significant number of the college’s graduates successfully complete their two-year degrees and advance to prestigious four-year institutions such as Kean, Rutgers, and Stockton.

The program organizers emphasized that every future commences with an idea that possesses the potential to transform the world.

“Innovation is something we take very seriously here,” summed up Dr. Jon Larson, President of Ocean County College. “It’s right in our college mission statement – to be the boldest, most innovative, and entrepreneurial student-centered college in the nation.”

Land: Continued From Page 1

“Mo” Hill said of the district. “But we’re going to have to work with Trenton for a school funding formula that’s equitable for all towns.”

Township Business Administrator Louis Amoruso said that according to NJ 18A:20-6, the district would have to sell off land to the highest bidder. That would likely be a developer. Selling it to the town instead dodged this bullet.

Township Engineer Robert Chankalian said it’s prime developable land with all utility connections. It’s in the R-90 residential zone, which means buildable lots are 9,000 square feet. In order to build a home, the lot has to have a width of 75 feet and a depth of 120 feet. Using these parameters, a developer could build a new neighborhood

with 49 homes. If presented to the Planning Board, which approves developments, there would be very few issues to stand in the way.

Based on this, Henry J. Mancini and Associates appraised the land as being worth $4,150,000.

The council passed an ordinance on first reading to buy the land for an amount not to exceed $4.4 million. Then they passed another ordinance on first reading to bond $4.5 million. The extra $100,000 is for soft costs. The second reading of those ordinances will have public comment and will be at a future Township Council meeting. Ordinances always have two readings – one to introduce, and a later one for the public to talk about.

Councilman Justin Lamb abstained from these ordinances, likely because his wife Ashley Lamb is on the Board of Education. The rest of the Township Council voted for it.

─Screenshot by Chris Lundy

The lines separating properties for houses were drawn by township officials.

Bill Would Ban Sale And Possession Of Gun Silencers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a founding member of the Senate Gun Violence Prevention Caucus, and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12) reintroduced the Help Empower Americans to Respond (HEAR) Act – bicameral federal gun safety legislation to ban the importation, sale, manufacturing, transfer and possession of gun silencers or suppressors.

“Gun silencers are devices designed for a very specific purpose – to suppress the sound of gunfire from unsuspecting victims and reduce the chances they can run, hide, take cover, and call the police during an active shooter situation,” said Sen. Menendez. “It is well past time that we pass the HEAR Act, legislation that would prevent armed assailants from using deadly devices that only make incidents of gun violence all the more dangerous.”

“Silencers are not tools of self-defense, they are tools of murder. They have no legal application, which is why law enforcement officials around the country have called for their elimination,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “The HEAR Act will save lives and is part of the common sense approach to firearms legislation that has widespread support among voters on both sides of the aisle.”

Sen. Menendez first introduced the HEAR Act in 2019 following the deadly Virginia Beach mass shooting, in which a gunman attached a suppressor to a

.45-caliber handgun before opening fire in a local government office building where he killed 12 people and injured four more.

In addition to prohibiting gun silencers, the HEAR Act would:

• Authorize a buyback program for silencers using Byrne JAG grants;

• Provide individuals with a 90-day grace period after the date of enactment for individuals to comply with the ban;

• Provide limited exceptions for certain current and former law enforcement personnel, for certain Atomic Energy personnel and purpose, and for certain authorized testing or experimentation.

Violence Policy Center, Newtown Action Alliance, March For Our Lives, and Everytown support the bill.

“The Violence Policy Center applauds the introduction of the HEAR Act to ban silencers. Silencers are military-bred accessories that make it easier for criminals to take innocent lives and threaten law enforcement,” said Kristen Rand, States Government Affairs Director. “Manufacturers brag that silencers can make guns ‘whisper quiet’ while increasing shooters’ accuracy and ability to fire rounds more quickly. These characteristics only make silencers more attractive to mass shooters and terrorists. The Violence Policy Center documented the dangers of silencers in our 2019 study, Silencers: A Threat to Public Safety.”

“Common-sense regulations on firearm silencers and mufflers is a simple,

straightforward step in encouraging responsible gun ownership,” said Elena Perez, Senior Policy Associate at March For Our Lives. “These devices drastically reduce the noise of shots fired, making it challenging to identify where the gunfire is coming from, a potentially fatal mistake in mass shootings. With gun violence increasing in severity across the country, why make already deadly weapons even deadlier?”

A gun silencer, which is also known as a suppressor, is attached to the barrel of a firearm in order to “limit the sound, muzzle flash and kickback” of a gun. Silencers pose a great danger to law enforcement officers and the public since they make it more difficult to detect the location of an active shooter. They diminish the effectiveness of gunshot detection technology deployed in many municipalities that rely on audio sensors to record the sound, time and location of loud noises. Gun silencers have been used in gun violence related incidents over the last decade:

• In Monterey Park, California, on January 21, 2023, an armed assailant with a semi-automatic weapon modified with a homemade suppressor killed 11 people and injured nine others.

• In Virginia Beach, Virginia, on May 31, 2019, a gunman armed with a .45-caliber handgun fitted with a suppressor killed 12 people in a government building. One individual who survived the shooting reported hearing what sounded like a nail gun.

• In Jacksonville, Florida, in December 2017, police arrested a man for planning to “shoot up” an Islamic Center. He was charged with possessing a silencer not registered to him that he purchased from an undercover detective.

• In southern California, in February 2013, a former Los Angeles police officer killed four people, and wounded three others over the course of nine days. As police investigated, they wondered why nearby residents were not reporting the shots. It turned out that, in an effort to conceal his murders, the shooter was using a silencer, which distorts the sound of gunfire and masks the muzzle flash of a gun.

• In Toledo, Ohio, in January 2011, a man fatally shot his coworker as he sat eating his breakfast in his office. No one at the office heard the gunshot and the victim’s co-workers originally assumed he had died of a heart attack. Police later surmised that the killer had used a silencer. Gun silencers are among the fastest-growing segments of the gun industry. While several states, including New Jersey, outlaw gun silencers, these devices are currently permitted under federal law, but must be registered. According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, there are currently over 900,000 silencers registered under the National Firearms Act. A nationwide ban on silencers would ensure the devices are not trafficked into states where bans are in place.

Congressman Questions Safety Of Wind Turbines

WASHINGTON, D.C. - A top Biden Administration official stonewalled Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) at a congressional hearing on offshore wind when pressed with studies that call into question the safety and survivability of more than 3,400 offshore wind turbines slated for the Jersey Shore.

“Can these offshore wind turbineseach the size of the Chrysler building in New York City - sustain a category 2 or 3 hurricane?” asked Smith, who raised concerns about the massive offshore wind turbines in letters to the Biden Administration in January and has yet to receive a response.

“I am happy to have our folks get back to you,” said Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Director Liz Klein.

Smith, who represents several military installations in his congressional district, also raised the concern that military and civilian vessels may be “significantly put at risk by radar malfunction caused by ocean wind turbines,” citing a 2020

BOEM analysis that concluded “future offshore wind energy installations on the Atlantic coast may impact land-based radar systems…”

“Is that true? Is there a possibility that some 3,400 wind turbines proposed to be deployed off our coast could make navigation less safe?” asked Smith, who also cited a 2022 study that “wind turbine generator mitigation techniques have not been substantially investigated, implemented, matured, or deployed.”

“Again no answer from Director Klein on the specific question,” Smith said. “Have the mitigation techniques been investigated, implemented, matured, or deployed?”

“We have worked very closely with our partners at the Department of Defense all throughout the process as we identify sites for offshore wind,” said Klein, who offered no specifics.

The BOEM Director’s comments came just one week after Bloomberg reported that the Pentagon has deemed several areas off the East Coast as “highly

problematic” for the development of offshore wind, due to proximity to military operations.

Government Response To Radar

The U.S. Department of Energy has already studied the impact of wind turbines on radar in 2014 and again in 2023. They have released plans for how to reduce the problem, including: Designing the wind farm layout to minimize the impacted area of radar coverage or to allow for maximum radar coverage within the project, such as by increasing the spacing between turbines within the project Terrain masking, or placing turbines on the opposite side of elevated terrain in relation to the radar so they will be blocked from view

Relocating proposed turbines or reducing their height so that they fall outside the radar line of sight

Eliminating proposed turbines located in areas that result in high radar interference impacts.

Siting alone may not eliminate impacts or reduce them to an acceptable level. In these cases, other mitigation techniques, including the deployment of new radar-related software upgrades and/or hardware, can also reduce potential wind energy impacts on radar operations. Examples include:

Adding infill radars in or around the wind project to maintain existing radar coverage

Modifying the existing radar system software’s constant false alarm rates, clutter maps, or other filtering and/or preliminary tracking routines

Upgrading the hardware or software of the affected radar to implement advanced filtering techniques that can remove interference from turbines.

In most cases, siting and other mitigations have resolved conflicts and allowed wind projects to co-exist effectively with radar missions.

For more information, visit windexchange.energy.gov/projects/radar-interference-review-process

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

National Day Of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer was held on May 4. It is always held on the first Thursday of May and was designated by the United States Congress, when people are asked “to turn to God in prayer and meditation.” The president is required by law to sign a proclamation each year, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day.

The modern law formalizing its annual observance was enacted in 1952 as part of the public reaction to the threats perceived in the Korean War, although earlier days of fasting and prayer had been established by the Second Continental Congress from 1775 until 1783, and by President John Adams in 1798 and 1799. While he served as governor of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson established a day

of prayer and thanksgiving. One could say that if there was ever time for the world to take pause and to say a prayer for a better future for everyone, now may well be that time. We have a lot to pray about given environmental threats, frequent mass shootings, the ongoing war in the Ukraine, Chinese spy balloons, a journalist unjustly charged for spying in Russia and the list goes on.

We are facing social and political division that has many people talking at each other instead of to each other. Social discourse is at an all-time low and the words “compromise” and “respect” appear to be lost on many.

There is a feeling of uncertainty in the world right now and at the very least, this event brings people together for a short while to reflect and hope for a better tomor-

row. It doesn’t matter what religion you observe to take part in the National Day of Prayer. Americans of many religions assemble in prayer in front of courthouses, as well as in houses of worship.

Luncheons, picnics, and music performances revolving around praying for the nation are also popular observances. We often see social media requests for prayers for a person experiencing health problems or a personal crisis. There isn’t a quota involved of getting enough prayers to get God to listen, it is more a matter of empathy and often it makes the person praying feel like they are doing something positive for a person in need. Who’s to say they aren’t?

Those who choose not to observe a faith can also reflect on life as well on this day. The constitution-

ality of the National Day of Prayer was unsuccessfully challenged in court by the Freedom from Religion Foundation after their attempt was unanimously dismissed by a panel of a federal appellate court in April 2011.

The Alliance Defense Fund (now known as the Alliance Defending Freedom) provided the defense for observance of the National Day of Prayer. We often forget that not all nations allow their citizens to have the kind of religious freedom that America enjoys. For example, after their long journey to escape severe religious persecution in Communist China, over 60 members of the Shenzhen Holy Reformed Church - known as the “Mayflower Church” - are free at last to practice their faith as they have come to

Letters To The Editor

S-2 was passed in 2018 and aimed to deal with the inequities caused by the school funding formula; BUT it did not tackle the formula itself. NJ constitutionally requires a “thorough and efficient”

(“T & E”) education for

ALL students. There is an “Adequacy Budget” set by the State. S-2’s stated purpose was to ensure “adequate” funding by directing appropriate funding accordingly. On the contrary, it negatively affected districts like Brick that were under adequacy to start. State aid to these negatively affected

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

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

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

S-2 districts has been reduced at an exorbitant rate which far outpaces what the District can replenish annually and put back.

Brick Schools is substantially under adequacy by $23 million. Brick Schools has an efficient Cost-Per-Pupil of $15,500, yet has had State Aid reduced by -49% under S-2. As Brick further falls below adequacy, it would take Brick over 7 years to catch up to other districts. Class sizes will continue to increase with Brick averaging around 30 in elementary classes with some as high as 34. In addition, staff will be reduced and programs will be cut to balance a budget (required by law). These are lost opportunities for our students.

Brick Schools is efficient and effective; with one of the lowest cost-perpupil and administrative

the United States.

These persecuted Chinese Christians arrived recently and are now allowed to practice their faith after having spent several years in diplomatic limbo facing potential refoulement to China while seeking to escape the oppression of the Chinese Communist Party.

Were they returned to China, they would be jailed and severely persecuted. We also see how certain extremist religious institutions prohibit educational opportunities for their female followers and extend their religious law into the workings of their nation’s government. Misusing religion to enforce oppression in any form is something that must be challenged as it is contrary to what a religion should be all about. Not many communities observe the National Day

of Prayer or recognize it with a proclamation but one long standing community that does, is Plumsted Township that is located literally in the center of New Jersey.

Plumsted, often referred to by the name of its downtown district of New Egypt is on the cusp of Burlington and Monmouth counties but is based in Ocean County. The late Ronald Dancer, a long-time mayor of that community and Assemblyman, wrote the township proclamation for the special day back in 1992.

Each year Plumsted invites people of all denominations to come forward and pray at the township municipal complex on Evergreen Road.

Bob Vosseller Assistant News Editor

costs in the state. Our students are held to the same standards and deserve the same opportunities as other students in the state. We are forced to do more with less with the same expectations. Who would oppose ALL students across the state being within a reasonable range of their required “T & E” education?

$12 billion will be distributed by the State, inequitably, to NJ school districts. Residents have been paying twice for schools – property taxes for their local schools and income taxes for other schools. The State believes that our community’s “Local Fair Share” is not high enough and that we should pay more. What about the “State’s Fair Share?!” Brick’s money is going to Trenton and it’s not coming back! We are simply running out of

time. The time is now for all of us to come together and advocate for our efficient and effective school district that has been punished by the S-2 formula for inadequacy!

Thomas G. Farrell, M.B.A., Ed.D. Superintendent,

Brick Township School District

Why Do Famous People Get Their Own Day?

Supposedly our previous Governor, Republican Chris Christie, has seen Bruce Springsteen live in concert over 130 times. This is obsession, plain and simple and it’s an embarrassment to our state. But now (not to be outdone), Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat, has decided to declare September 23rd “Bruce Springsteen Day”

and that’s even worse. When Christie attended so many shows he basically humiliated himself as not many knew about it, but Murphy has humiliated the entire state by his action.

If we’re going to give musicians born in Jersey such an honor, how about singers Frank Sinatra or Dionne Warwick? Both were ignored while a rest stop on the Parkway was named after Jon Bon Jovi last year. But seriously, a “Day” should be to honor those who’ve actually contributed something to Jersey. There are many worthy policemen or fireman who’ve done more for people in this state than Bruce ever has or ever will; more than any singer ever can! These are they who deserve our recognition.

Chet Jelinski Whiting

S-2: A Formula For Inadequacy

Garden State Philharmonic Presents “Bach To The Beatles”

TOMS RIVER – The Garden State Philharmonic, under the direction of Conductor Diane Wittry, will perform “Bach to the Beatles,” a concert showcasing the influence of famous classical music pieces on modern day rock ‘n’ roll songs, on June 3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Grunin Center for the Arts at Ocean County College. Monmouth University Professor Kenneth Womack, a Beatles author and historian, will deliver an opening presentation at 7 p.m. and will be available for a book-signing after the show.

Attendees will hear how Johann Sebastian Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 influenced the Beatles piece “Penny Lane” and enjoy the famous saxophone melody by Serge Prokofiev in the Romance of the Lieutenant Kije Suite, which was used by rock artist Sting in his song “Russians.” The solo movement of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 was used by Eric Carmen in “All by Myself” and the chord progressions of Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata were presented backwards in the Beatles song “Because.” A highlight of the concert will be the New Jersey premiere of a Beatles Fantasy Concerto by Maxime Goulet and Eric Jones Cadieux, which will feature violin soloist Nicholas Pappone. Guest pianist Craig Ketter will also be performing with the Philharmonic for the

evening.

“I am honored to be joining the Garden State Philharmonic for the ‘Bach to the Beatles’ concert,” said Womack, who also serves as the organization’s president. “I look forward to exploring the many ways in which the sounds of Bach, Beethoven, and other great composers continue to influence our culture even centuries later. A splendid time is guaranteed for all!”

The Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts is located at 1 College Drive, Toms River. Tickets for “Bach to the Beatles” are available at ci.ovationtix. com/35873.

Dr. Kenneth Womack, Professor of English and Popular Music at Monmouth University, is the author or editor of more than 40 books, including a multivolume study devoted to the life and work of Beatles producer George Martin, and the bestselling books Solid State: The Story of Abbey Road and the End of the Beatles and John Lennon, 1980: The Last Days in the Life. He is the Music Culture columnist for Salon and host of the web magazine’s “Everything Fab Four” podcast. His latest project is the authorized biography and archive of Beatles road manager Mal Evans, due out in November 2023.

For more information on the Garden State Philharmonic, visit: gardenstatephilharmonic.org.

Celebrate International Horseshoe Crab Day

TOMS RIVER – Did you know? Fossil discoveries have recorded horseshoe crabs appearing as early as 450 million years ago. Though the remaining four species of horseshoe crabs living today have evolved from those earlier ancestors into unique species, their overall adaptations and physiology has remained mostly unchanged. Join at the Cooper Environmental Center on June 20

from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as they celebrate these magnificent creatures and learn more about them with crafts, lectures, stories and live encounters. No registration required.

• 11 a.m. – Horseshoe Crab Story Time

• 11:30 a.m. – Live Horseshoe Crab Encounter

• 1 p.m. – Our Living Fossils: The Atlantic Horseshoe Crab Presentation

• 2 p.m. – Live Horseshoe Crab encounter

Ocean Health Initiatives Receives 100% HRSA Site Visit Score

NEW JERSEY – Ocean Health Initiatives, a nonprofit community health center in Ocean and Monmouth County, is supremely proud to announce that after a long, challenging process, they have received the rare distinction of a 100% score on our most recent HRSA site visit!

The site visit is an opportunity for health centers to demonstrate their compliance with a wide gambit of federal regulations. Generally occurring every three years, health centers are judged on an array of topics that include both administrative and clinical policies and practices. Receiving a perfect score is an incredible feat given the magnitude of things covered and

the attention to detail that takes place during the site visit. To make such an achievement come to fruition required meticulous preparation.

The CEO of the organization, Theresa Berger, says, “it’s an outstanding feat. The team worked tirelessly for ten weeks to prepare all of our documents, review all of our policies and practices, and identify ways to ensure that we met the requirements of the site visit. Though it was very grueling at times, the OHI team demonstrated its impressive capacity for collaboration and camaraderie. Despite the tragic loss of our CFO, Chris Ollemar, all of his hard work before the visit proved to be some of his best. He was an angel on my shoulder and a guiding light for the organization.”

While OHI is celebrating this amazing result, we humbly recognize that this is more than simply a test score; and it is a reflection of the hard work we do to deliver the highest quality care to our patients.

OCC Ranked Among Best Online Community Colleges In NJ

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College is excited to announce that the college has been named in the 2023 Best Online Community Colleges in New Jersey by leading higher education researcher OnlineU.

To be considered in the rankings, community colleges must offer primarily associate degrees and certificate programs, have a main campus location within the state, and offer five or more fully online associate degrees. Rankings are compiled annually using OnlineU’s proprietary ranking process, which compares colleges across the country in various categories using impactful data, public information, and reviews from over 13,000 online students. Ocean County College offers more than 150 online courses that give individuals of all ages the opportunity to earn their degree. “In the e-Learning Department, our mission is to pro-

vide our students with rewarding educational experiences that are enriched by technology, innovation, and effective design,” said Dr. Eileen Garcia, OCC’s vice president of E-Learning and Learning Enterprises. “We strive to deliver high-quality asynchronous courses which are engaging and meet the needs of students from all walks of life, with a commitment to excellence that extends from the local community to the international stage. Our goal is to empower all students with the tools and guidance they need to succeed and to help them achieve their academic and professional aspirations.”

In their assessment of Ocean County College, OnlineU noted the college’s ease of enrollment and affordability, as well as the ability for OCC students to study at their own pace. Additional information about the standings is available at onlineu.com.

POOLOPENINGS.COM

MERLIN

LINERS & SAFETY COVERS

Since starting Ahoward Construction, we’ve been committed to providing service of the highest quality. Our mission at Ahoward Construction is simple: to provide high-quality services in a timely manner. Our team caters to each project’s specific needs to ensure excellence. We have expertise on building decks, pavers and roofs. We will work one on one with our customers to try and find a price that works for the both of us. We strive to keep our customers satisfied. Call for a FREE ESTIMATE!

─Photo courtesy Ocean County College

Barnegat Bay Blitz In Toms River

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Department of Public Works, NJ Department of Environmental Protection and Veolia teamed together during this year’s Barnegat Bay

The Pineland Symphonic Band Starts Its 2023 Season

TOMS RIVER – The Pineland Symphonic Band will be performing its first concert of the season on May 10, 7 p.m. at the Ocean County Library, Washington Street, Toms River. The band is a non-profit community band of volunteer musicians that’s been performing locally for close to 40 years and is currently directed by retired Toms River High School South Band Director, Mr. Jack Milkovitz. Last year the band presented numerous concerts at local churches, adult communities and the Ocean County Library in Toms River. The band is comprised of both amateur and professional musicians with diverse backgrounds - from a National Guard Black Hawk helicopter pilot to former music teachers as well as

Government

musicians who played in high school, college and have now resumed practicing and performing because of their love of music.

The Pineland Symphonic Band always welcomes new members to join in the fun! If you play percussion, trumpet, trombone, saxophone, flute, baritone, tuba, French horn, bassoon, oboe or clarinet contact Jeff Heilbrun at jeffheilbrun@comcast.net for more information about joining the band. Also see their Facebook page and website at pinelandsymphonicband.org

Rehearsals take place weekly on Fridays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Manchester.

Blitz on April 21, cleaning the Silver Ridge Woods area to keep the Township lands and waterways clean. In total, 1.58 tons of garbage was collected at this one site.

─Photo courtesy Veolia

Ocean County Artists Guild’s Sunday Portrait Workshop

ISLAND HEIGHTS – Join the Ocean County Artists Guild’s (Drop In) Sunday Portrait Workshop. Meeting every Sunday except the first Sunday of the month and holidays. Class is $10 for members, $20 for non-members. One year membership is $50. OCAG is at 22 Chestnut Avenue Island Heights.

Class consists of one long 20-minute pose repeated with breaks in between. Models may have light costume and staging with varying themes from 2 to 4 p.m. Use side entrance on Ocean Avenue. Learn a new skill or revisit an old one. Artist’s models also sought, paying $30/hr. Find out more at ocartistsguild.org.

A Starry Night Art Auction & Reception

ISLAND HEIGHTS – Eat, drink & bid!

Join the fun at “A Starry Night Art Auction & Reception” on June 8 to benefit Ocean’s Harbor House. They are a local non-profit organization celebrating 35 years of service in providing shelter, support and services for homeless and vulnerable youth throughout the region.

This festive and celebratory event will be held outdoors at the John F. Peto Studio in Island Heights with art displayed throughout the beautiful grounds. The art is created by the kids as part of the art therapy pro -

NEWLY

gram. Guests can bid on the kid’s art plus art donated by local artists. Honorees are Judi and Stephan Leone, prominent members of the shore region. Executive Chef Mike Jurusz of AGB in Seaside Park is graciously providing a palette of savory delights and libations. Plus, guests will be treated to musical performances provided by the Zzak G. AOK Performance Group.

For more information on sponsorships and tickets visit events.readysetauction.com/ oceansharborhouse/starrynight2023.

Vinyl •

CALL

─Photo courtesy Lee Stacy

Gnarodiversity Event Benefits

Autism Programs At HSE, Intermediate South

TOMS RIVER – The skateboarding and autism communities of Toms River and the greater Ocean County area came together for a fun-filled day of skateboarding April 22 at High School East.

The event was called Gnarodiversity, an effort to raise funds for the autism education programs and skateboard clubs of High School East and Intermediate South, and to introduce skateboarding to local kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and others who may simply have never

gotten on a board before.

It was a beautiful day for the all-ages “TR Skates for Autism”-themed event, and many folks throughout the community attended. Skateboards and helmets were available for all, and everyone had the opportunity to skate with help from experienced volunteers - and may did, including HSE staff and parents. There was also music, vendors, merch, food, sidewalk chalk for kiddos, and more. A good time for a great cause.

Junior Police Camp

TOMS RIVER – The Junior Police Camp is a way for the department to give back to the community and give the children an inside look at the police department and law enforcement as a whole.

Campers get to ride in police cars, utilize specialized police equipment, learn self-defense tactics, and physical agility. They also have exposure to the motorcycle unit, EMS ambulance, ESU team, fire

suppression vehicles, obstacle course as well as a field trip to the Ortley Beach Lifeguard station.

Camp runs from July 10 to 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Must be a Toms River resident. Only applicants currently in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade will be considered. For more information, visit us at trpolice. org and tomsriverpolicefoundation.org. Don’t miss out, apply today!

─Photo courtesy Allison Goodwin

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

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

condensation is more likely to form.

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

Try a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifier

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

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

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

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

Finding Relief: 10 Ways To Treat Hot Flashes

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause, affecting up to 75% of women. The frequency and severity of hot flashes can vary widely among women, with some experiencing only a few per year and others experiencing several per day. Some women, including myself, never even get one!

Your risk for them increases with family history, smoking, obesity, adrenal conditions, stress, and the use of certain medications.

Hormones are the mainstay. I think a common mistake women make is taking hormones equivalent to those produced by a 20-year-old woman when they are 60 years old, for example. I don’t think ‘industrial size’ hormone doses should be given to older women! I’ll share more about bioidentical hormones and HRT later on in this article.

Here are the 10 best things you can take to relieve hot flashes:

1. Black cohosh: This herb has been used for centuries. Black cohosh may work by acting on serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to regulate body temperature.

2. Red clover: Red clover is a plant that contains phytoestrogens, compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Some studies have suggested that red clover may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

3. Sage: This herbal option may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes due to it’s cooling effect on the body.

4. Evening primrose oil: This oil contains a fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid

(GLA). Some studies have suggested that taking evening primrose oil supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

5. Flaxseed: It contains lignans, which may help balance hormone levels and reduce hot flashes. Flaxseed can be added to a variety of foods or consumed in supplement form.

6. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant and taking vitamin E supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in some women.

7. B complex: Methylated B vitamins play a role in hormone regulation and may help reduce stress, which can trigger hot flashes.

8. Ginseng: Ginseng is an herb that has been traditionally used for menopause symptoms, including hot flashes. Some studies have suggested that ginseng may reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

9. Maca root: Maca is a plant th at grows in the Andes Mountains and has been used traditionally for hormone balancing.

10. Bioidentical hormones are a type of HRT, and in my opinion, are the best option for hot flashes because they are hormones that are chemically identical to those produced naturally in your body. This option requires a prescription from a hormone expert. Bioidentical hormones are available in many dosage forms including creams and pills.

Everything I’ve listed has pros and cons so make sure you experiment and talk to a doctor about your options. If you like this topic, I have a longer version of this article posted on my website, suzycohen.com.

Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

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

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

Statistics show that nearly 50 percent of all nursing homes are short staffed. The staff people who do work in these facilities are underpaid, overworked, and all too often overburdened, which in turn leads to elder neglect and abuse. Even more alarming is the prediction that the problem will only worsen in the near future. More than 91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients. A Health and Human Services Department report found patients in understaffed nursing homes were more likely to suffer from a variety of problems, such as bed sores, malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, pneumonia, and serious blood born infections. It’s a serious concern that will only increase with time, given that the population of people aged 85 or older is expected to

double to 8.9 million by the year 2030.

Signs of abuse and neglect may be (but are not limited to) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unexplained injuries, frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse call the trial attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

DeRome Sets New Single-Game Scoring Mark For HSS Lax

TOMS RIVER – In an A-South matchup vs Central Regional High School April 15, High School South lacrosse player Brady DeRome broke the single-game goal record for his school. Brady’s final line: an incredible eight goals and two assists.

This performance surpassed the three-way tie

of seven goals in one game, an accomplishment shared by Dillon Dudash (class of ‘07), Kyle Jernack (‘12), and Cooper Guzzi (‘17).

This also ties the school record for single-game points, as DeRome joins South’s Declan Mullin (‘18) as the only boys lacrosse players to ever notch 10 points in one game. Way to go Brady!

AREAS

• Total shoulder arthroplasty (Anatomic and Reverse)

• ACL/PCL reconstruction

• Complex knee ligamentous reconstruction

• Knee cartilage preservation surgery (OATs/MACI/HTO Meniscal Transplant)

• Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair Shoulder instability (Arthroscopic and open)

• Hip Arthroscopy

• Ankle Arthroscopy

• Robotic total knee arthroplasty MD &

Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine

FELLOWSHIP: New England Baptist Hospital

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

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Presents Annual

Spring Flea Market 2023

Friday May 5, 2023 • 9am – 3 pm

Saturday May 6, 2023 • 9am – 3 pm

• Plant & Garden Sales

• Breakfast & Lunch Menu

• Homemade Baked Goods

Live Entertainment on Saturday at Noon - (Indoor/Outdoor Rain or Shine event). Vendor Tables Available: Contact: JoeYacubovich@gmail.com for additional information. All proceeds to benefit new Church building.

1937 Church Road • Toms River, NJ 08753

C ommunity n ew S

Trout Release At Riverwood A Joint Effort

TOMS RIVER – Intermediate South and High School East students came together in the name of science.

Specifically, trout release day, which took place at Riverwood Park. The event was the culmination of a collaborative project among Intermediate South students and Jon Hoffman’s environmental science students at HSE. Middle school students learned the importance of dissolved oxygen in aquatic life as they helped HSE students titrate the dissolved oxygen levels of the water.

After the release, there was even time for students to enjoy everything else the park has to offer.

“All of the fish swam away, and as far as we know are living their best life in the water,” according to Intermediate South teacher Susan George-Horn. Sounds like a win, win, swim.

Pallets Of Air Purifiers Arrive At Silver Bay, Pine Beach, Early Learning Center

TOMS RIVER – The New Jersey Department of Health, in partnership with the NJDOE and others, made K-12 schools throughout the state eligible to receive high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifying units and filters. Assistant Superintendent Jim Ricotta applied on behalf of district schools, but was unsure of the status of his applications.

However, pallets of new, state-of-the-art air purifiers recently arrived at Silver Bay Elementary School, Pine Beach Elementary School, and the Early Learning Center.

The goal of the program is to provide layered

protection from respiratory illnesses and address other airborne irritants such as dust, mold, pollen, etc., and the NJDOH is prioritizing placement of its HEPA purifiers in spaces frequented by medically-fragile students. Silver Bay, for example, which hosts the district’s signature programs for students with special needs, already has their new filters up and running.

More of these units will be received and set up throughout the district in the following weeks.

“This is a fantastic, practical, and useful initiative that I’m glad we were able to take advantage of on behalf of our students and staff,” Ricotta said.

─Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Estate Sale

ESTATE SALE – Old furniture, collectibles, all gotta go. 732-267-6232. (22)

Items For Sale

All 4 appliances - Range, refridgerator, washing machine, dryer; all in working order. $300 for all. 732-569-3174. (21)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEW -

ELRY 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)

Junk or Wrecked Cars and Trucks Wanted - Cash paid. 732-6577251, Steve. Thanks. (22)

Ca$h Paid For Old 45 RPM Records. - R&B, doo wop, soul, early rock & roll, and rockabilly preferred. Call between 8AM and 8PM 909-938-4623. (20)

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)

Don't pawn your coins - Call me first. I pay more. Old coins, currency. Will cash in your change. Chris 848-210-7372. (23)

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)

Cash Paid! - For LP Records, reel to reels, 45/33. Travel to you or meet. We pick-up the phone, Eddie 732-829-5908. (20)

Help Wanted

Home Health Care Aide - Needed for sweet elderly woman. Light transfer a must. Dressing. Simple meal prep. Holiday City. 609-349-0937. (21)

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

Weekend Receptionist - Magnolia Gardens Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill weekend receptionist position. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (22)

LBI NJ Sober live-in companion - 5 week days. Compensation 1750., R&B near ocean. Drive to therapy, check meds & no access to substances. References. swpubrel@icloud.com . (21)

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)

Certified Aides - Full time, Per Diem, Weekends, Magnolia Gardens Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill nursing, and medical aide positions. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (22)

Full/Part Time Dietary Aid - Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill positions for Full time and part time, Dietary aids. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (22)

MEDICAL BILLING - 35 years of experience. Directly connected to Medicare. Call Cindy Office:848-238-7997 email: cindytmp2@gmail. (24)

Housing Office - Looking for an Administrative Assistant to work up to 30 hours a week. No Benefits offered. Must be proficient in Word and have excellent computer knowledge. Position requires answering phones, scheduling and typing. Must be detail oriented, organized and can work independently. Provide a resume with 2 references. FAX to 732-269-7709 or email to arlene@ berkeleytwphousing.org. (21)

Services

Property/Maintenance/Masonry - Brick restoration, brick repointing, concrete repairs, step repairs, grass cutting, cleanups. mulch. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (23)

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)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)

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)

Services

Build • Repair • Replace - Affordable • Expert Workmanship. Carpentry, windows, doors, trim, tile, bathrooms, kitchens, masonry, flooring, decks, advanced building. 609-384-9030. (21)

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)

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)

A+ CLEANING SERVICEHomes, Offices, AIR BnB, Summer Rentals, Expert in Senior Villages. Reliable, references. Free Estimates. Call Barbara 732-948-4730. (20)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

VFW Post 100092 - Barnegat, NJ 08005. Coffee - donuts every Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Meeting 2nd Thursday1800-2000 hours each month. Looking for new members, call 609-698-4120. (21)

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)

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 -

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)

MASONARY REPAIR - Sidewalks, steps, driveways, pavers. For free estimate call 732-5896798, 848-210-2716. (20)

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

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)

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)

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Council: Continued From Page 1

other five are for it.

The second time around, Rodrick suggested splitting the ordinance so that he could vote in favor of things like police cars, but still vote against the downtown work. Lamb seconded his motion.

Township Attorney Gregory McGuckin said that the ordinance, by law, can’t be split. So, the only thing the opposition could do was table it, which means to hold off on the vote until another meeting. Rodrick and Lamb tried to table it, but the rest of the council disagreed. Ultimately, the bond ordinance passed, which means that the town will be borrowing the money for the above projects and purchases.

Lamb said that his opposition to the downtown project isn’t a campaign stunt, since he’s not running for anything this year.

Rodrick, who is running for mayor in the June primary election, said he’s heard a “tremendous amount of discontent” about the high rises planned for downtown Toms River.

The downtown redevelopment will include several large, new projects. The most controversial is 285 apart -

ments in two towers that will have restaurants, retail, and a banquet hall/ wedding venue. The complex will also have parking available.

However, the downtown loop part of the bond is not connected to this, Lotano said. It will fix roads downtown and help provide a safe evacuation route. This work will happen before the planned apartment buildings come in. The federal government provided $5.6 million toward this project, but the town has to pay $1.5 million as part of their share. That’s the amount that’s in the bond for this project.

Lotano said that he’s talked to people who are not happy with Lamb and Rodrick voting against roadwork throughout their own districts.

“We pay taxes for services. The bond ordinance provides the ability to provide those services,” he said. “The rest is just a political stunt.”

Towns traditionally have a certain amount of debt as they purchase items. Local Bond Law states that anything being bought with borrowed money must have at least five years’ worth of use. Towns pay off the debt annually, sometimes getting better bond rates years later. The philosophy behind it is that while it may cost more with interest in the long run, the annual payments are able to be made more easily.

Silver Ridge Westerly Seeking Vendors For Craft Fair

TOMS RIVER – Silver Ridge Westerly is currently seeking crafters, vendors, flea marketers, and food trucks for their Vendor/Craft Fair on October 14 (rain

date October 15) at Silver Ridge Westerly Parking Lot, 39 Millbrook Drive, Toms River. For more information call: Cookie at 201-394-3583.

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

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

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. Toms River, NJ 08753

732-505-4477

www.rosegardennj.com

photo of the week

“I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream!” That includes this squirrel who was enjoying a cone of what appeared to be vanilla at Lake Horicon in Lakehurst. Photographer Denise May-

nard was in the right place at the right time to get this shot. If you would like to have your shore-related snaps featured, email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

21st Annual Step Up For The Arc Walk

LAKEWOOD – The Arc, Ocean County Chapter will host the 21st Annual Step Up for The Arc Walk on May 13 at ShoreTown Ballpark, home of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Step Up for The Arc is an inclusive community event to raise awareness and acceptance for people with disabilities. The day will kick-off at 10 a.m. with registration, inclusive games, arts and crafts, live performances and refreshments. Around 11 a.m. the one-mile walk celebration will commence followed by the after-party at 12 p.m.

This year’s 21st Annual Walk hopes to raise $75,000 for The Arc, Ocean County Chapter’s programs and services providing housing, employment, job training, transportation, recreation, family support, and clinical support services to 1,000 individuals with disabilities. This event is free to attend and participants are encouraged to register online to fundraise $50 for this year’s commemorative Step Up for The Arc t-shirt. Register and donate online at arcocean.org or mail your donation to: The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – WALK, 393 Mantoloking Road, Brick NJ 08723. For more event details, call 732-978-1414.

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword p uzzle

be “in the house” during a tearjerker

Down

1 Annual shot target

2 Knock (on)

3 “Here __ again!”

4 Submerged

5 Joint above the ankle

6 Cheeky talk

7 Tells, as a story

ger Games”

33 Golf tournament kickoff

36 Paper purchases

38 Disgraced energy firm

39 Period of work

41 Range below

28-Across

43 Half a bikini

46 Only “V” Monopoly avenue not named for a state

49 __ Joe’s

51 Peace agreement

52 Song from the past 54 Chin-up muscle, briefly

56 Vampire tooth

57 Not of sound mind

59 “007” James

60 Kind of jet

63 “Huh!?”

64 Regret

workplace

31 Stanley of “The Hun-

SolutionS

65 The old college __ 66 Giggle sound

Crossword

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of MAY 6 - MAY 12

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your faith in your own infallibility may be high and you could be tempted to act rashly or to take unnecessary risks. Control any possible urges to change your spending habits or to make impulsive purchases for now.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : This could be a week when you could feel compelled to turn over a new leaf. Your outlook may shift as you embrace independence and objectivity. Someone new in your life might persuade you to make radical changes.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Remain poised to cope with temporary slowdowns or mystifying red tape. When pressing obligations interfere with your romantic ideas, you may yearn for moments of solitude; try not to run away or hide from the facts.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : It can be tough to settle back into a comfortable routine when loved ones are enthusiastic about making major improvements. You may be eager to experiment with a new set of goals or to delve into unusual subjects.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Excursions to local venues and attractions could put you in the public eye. Focus on ways to be fully authentic; this gives others permission to do the same. Enjoy unique experiences or making valuable connections this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Vague answers and evasive maneuvers are seldom the most constructive choice, but you may feel challenged to present your opinions in

a more straight-up way. If overwhelmed by negativity, do some nurturing self-care.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): An extravagance could be good for you. You may become fixated on buying something that is better than average and refuse to worry about the price. You and a partner or loved one may agree on some updates.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your ability to manage unexpected changes may be enhanced. However, you might tend to overthink plans or to be particular about the details. Hold off on making decisions that affect your family for the time being.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) : Self-discipline does not mean you must deny yourself simple pleasures. It may mean remaining dependable and industrious even when you are tempted to play hooky. Address any family issues with tender, loving care.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may find your powers of observation can be accentuated. It could be easy to see what must be done and craft an astute and practical schedule. Your generosity of spirit may be best expressed within your family.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may engage in a quest for change and self-improvement. Rearrange the furniture for a new look or accept adjustments in family schedules with good grace. You should watch your finances carefully at this time.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Doubts and concerns may plague you off and on so you might need to examine the facts thoroughly. Spend a few extra dollars to get something that is both long lasting and a cut above all the others.

THIS RESTAURANT-WORTHY SALMON DISH COMES TOGETHER IN LESS THAN AN HOUR

By America’s Test Kitchen

SALMON PICCATA

Serves 4

Note: To ensure uniform pieces of fish, we prefer to purchase a whole center-cut salmon fillet and cut it into four equal pieces. For skinless salmon, we refer to the side opposite where the skin used to be, which is typically more pink in color and more rounded, as the flesh side.

1 (2-pound) center-cut skinless salmon fillet, about 1 1/2 inches thick

1 teaspoon table salt, divided

1 teaspoon pepper, divided

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

3 garlic cloves, sliced thin

2 teaspoons all-purpose flour

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup water

2 tablespoons capers, rinsed

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon juice

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

1. Cut salmon crosswise into 4 equal fillets. Pat salmon dry with paper towels and sprinkle all over with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

2. Heat oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add salmon flesh side down. Cover and cook until browned on bottom and registering 125 degrees (for medium-rare), about 5 minutes, or 135 degrees (for medium), about 7 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and transfer salmon, browned side up, to platter or individual plates.

3. Return skillet to medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 15 seconds. Whisk in wine, water, capers, lemon zest and juice, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Bring to boil and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Off heat, whisk in butter, 1 piece at a time, until combined. Stir in dill. Spoon sauce over salmon. Serve.

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2023 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY

TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.