2023-05-20 - The Jackson Times

Library’s Sensory Space Provides Calming Atmosphere

School Cuts 64 Positions Due To Budget

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – The Township School District will see the loss of 64 positions through its tentative $165,790,499 budget for the 2023-24 school year adopted during a special Board of Education meeting.

Business Administrator Michelle Richardson explained, “this year’s budget contains a general fund tax levy increase of 2% which is the cap that the state allows.” This will translate into a $2 increase for the owner of the average home assessed at $330,688. The tentative

school rate is $1.4203 per $100 of assessed home value.

The loss in staff is in addition to the 151.5 staff reduction already realized in the last five years - bringing the total loss to 215 positions.

“That is a reduction across all staffing. We reduced yet again, our school budgets and put on pause any Tier 1 capital improvement projects unless they are related to safety. We’ve reduced much needed upgrades to our technology department. Due to the reduction

(School - See Page 8)

Township Hires

its

(Inset): Librarian assistant Alec

By Bob Vosseller

part of the Jackson Library’s Sensory Space. will now offer a special environment for patrons who have developmental disabilities.

Similar to the one in

the Toms River library, sensory spaces provide a calm, relaxing atmosphere designed to relieve stress and

anxiety. The equipment in both spaces is visually stimulating and tactile, soothing and (Library - See Page 4)

Local WWII Hero

Honored In Biography

By Mark Bator

New Police Officer

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – The most recent Township Council meeting started off with the swearing in of a lifelong township resident as the newest member of the Jackson Police Department.

Police Chief Matthew

signed to help kids with special needs learn sports of soccer and basketball.”

TOMS

RIVER

- The extraordinary life and times of an under-appreciated World War II hero was the subject of a question-and-answer session with author Steven M. Gillon at the George P. Vanderveer American Legion Post 129. Gillon, a history professor at the Uni -

versity of Oklahoma, entertained those in attendance and provided insight regarding his latest book, “Len Lomell: D-Day Hero.”

In addition to Lomell’s wife, Renee, many of those in attendance had known Lomell personally. So, in addition to the information imparted by the author,

numerous friends and acquaintances of the local hero took the opportunity to share their recollections at the well-attended event. Lomell had been a member of American Legion Post 129 and had run his law practice in Toms River, as well. Lomell was drafted (Hero - See Page 5)

D. Kunz introduced Charles “CJ” Hanson to the governing body and public and Township Clerk Mary Moss swore him in.

The chief noted that the new hire had been very active within the community. “He was a mentoring buddy for Challenger Sports which is a Jackson Township program de -

Hanson attended high school in Holmdel and graduated in 2019 and received multiple varsity letters in the sports of lacrosse and football and was captain of both teams. “He was a mentor for Heroes and Cool Kids, volunteering his time to help less fortunate individuals. He graduated high school with academic honors, numerous awards of achievement and was offered numerous athletic scholarships,” the chief said.

(Police - See Page 9)

JACKSON – An underutilized computer lab on the township library’s second floor

─Photos by Bob Vosseller

The Jackson Township branch of the Ocean County Library recently officially cut the ribbon on

new Sensory Space area located on the second floor of the library.

McQuade demonstrates the sequin boards which are

─Photo by Mark Bator On display were personal photos, including these of Len Lomell and his wife, Renee, as they appeared during WWII.

Library

:

Continued From Page 1

Ocean County Library (OCL) administration and staff have been keenly aware of the increase in the number of patrons who have developmental disabilities, sensory processing disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dementia, and other issues, and therefore are increasing the services that are being offered to that population, as well as to their caregivers.

The cost of Jackson’s Sensory Space was around $35,000. This cost was not covered by any federal, state or county grant. Some additional equipment arrived recently.

According to library spokesperson Sherri Taliercio, “they are welcoming spaces to all members of our community. The rooms are similar, but not identical which is beneficial to visitors because while there is a feeling of familiarity and consistency between the spaces, there will also be a few different pieces of equipment to explore.”

“How the rooms are used and scheduling are similar between the spaces and can be found on the Ocean County Library website. The Jackson Sensory Space is a bit larger than the Toms River Sensory Space. The new Stafford Branch that will be built will also include a Sensory Space,” Taliercio added.

“We have some newer pieces of equipment,” librarian assistant Alec McQuade said. “We had a soft launch after January and our grand opening ceremony was early

April.”

Since that time however, the room has continued to evolve.

“We added two wall panels which is our musical touch wall which is an electronic wall panel that follows the hand with different lights and sounds. We have different sound effects and color effects,” he said.

He said to the right of those walls is a thermochromic wall panel called Magic Hands

“that takes the heat transfer from your hand and leaves an imprint and as it goes back to room temperature it fades back to black.”

“We also have these gel floor tiles that are liquid in tiles that when you stand on them the gel swishes around and you get a nice liquid effect from that and they make nice little stepping stones. We moved the block mat closer to the wall to make it less of a loud central point to the room,” he added.

A fiber optic waterfall is a central spot in the Sensory Space room. That features heat with color changing fiber optic lights. “There is a mirror on top so you can sit and have a nice simulation of your reflection and color changing lights and a little tactile simulation,” McQuade said.

Another new addition added after its official opening are squeeze cushions. McQuade explained, “they are chairs that are designed for pressure. Kids like to call them the hug chairs. They kind of squeeze you from the side.”

There are also sequin boards which have a two-tone effect “you can go up and down or side to side and we also have some color changing lamps and a wave projector that has sound effects. The most commonly used

right now is different birds and crickets.” Movies are screened as special events.

McQuade said, “one thing we are doing now is that we have a shelf that holds a laptop and we have a screen that has constant looping videos that offers different relaxing things, ocean waves, nature, things like that.”

Since it has opened McQuade said he’s seen, “a decent mix of age groups. Mostly we get younger audiences, kids ranging

from toddlers to those 10 to 12.”

“Peak times typically in the week are early afternoon/late morning. Weekends are early afternoon. Evenings tend to be slower. Friday seems to be our busiest day,” he added. There is an eight-person limit and time spent in the Sensory Space is limited to a half hour and is available on a first come, first served basis. Hours of operation can be found at the OCL website or by calling the Jackson Library at 732-928-4400, ext. 3823.

The Jackson Library Sensory Space features a fiber optic waterfall is a central spot in the Sensory Space room. That features heat with color changing fiber optic lights.

- Photo by Bob Vosseller

Hero: Continued From Page 1

into the U.S. Army in 1942, and had become an Army Ranger. As part of his involvement in WWII, Lomell’s squad was tasked with taking the German stronghold at Point du Hoc as part of the D-Day invasion. He is credited with being the one soldier who made D-Day a victory. Lomell’s exploits, many of which had not previously been known to the author, are contained in the book.

As Gillon explained to the audience, he had met Lomell while doing a television show on the History Channel.

“I was just mesmerized by his story and incredibly impressed by him,” Gillon said of Lomell. “I know that most of his friends and people who knew him called him ‘Bud.’ To me, he was Mister Lomell. I was also struck by how modest he was, how down to Earth he was. He was just like a regular guy. He never wanted to be the center of attention.”

The idea for the book was hatched during the COVID-19 pandemic, and during the question-and-answer session, the author revealed how the book truly came to fruition.

Just as he had done with the previous 11 books he has written, Gillon did hours of fact-checking and interviews in preparation for the task.

“What happened is,” Gillon explained to his audience, “in the very beginning, I did a lot of background research before I even reached out to the family. I wanted to make sure the story held together.”

Gillon explained that historical materials

about Lomell were often hard to come by, including at the Library of Congress.

“In this case there were very few of those types of documents,” Gillon said. “And what you do as an author, is you gather up as much information as you can.”

But the most noteworthy assistance came from the Lomell family themselves when the late war hero’s wife had a small gathering, which included Gillon, at her home.

“And I think it was that time, after that meeting,” Gillon related, “Renee asked me to stay behind. She went into the back room where she stored lots of [Lomell’s] memorabilia. She brought out a big black folder, and she explained to me what it was.”

Inside the folder was a 186-page letter that Lomell had written to his grandchildren in 1980 that documented his life.

“As a historian, it doesn’t get any better,” explained Gillon. “He essentially did a lot of the work for me.”

The biography recounts the heroic actions of Lomell, whose exploits, while impressive, have not been woven into the fabric of the American zeitgeist in the same fashion as such iconic figures as General George S. Patton, or Audie Murphy. From his inauspicious beginnings as a World War II draftee, the selfless bravery and resourcefulness of Lomell are accurately recounted by Gillon, who vividly painted the scene for those in attendance at the lecture.

“I just think it’s great that we have someone who’s written a nationally published book,” said Toms River Mayor Maurice B. Hill, who was also in attendance at the event. “And it’s available now to people, to read about his his-

tory, and how important [Lomell] was in changing the outcome of World War Two.”

Many audience members had known Lomell, either through his membership at the American Legion Hall, through his law practice, or simply as an involved community member, and took turns sharing their stories with the author. While he did not do so publicly during the event, Hill also knew Lomell personally, as well.

“I actually met him downtown,” Hill explained, “at a number of events, Memorial Day events. He was our Grand Marshall, and he was always a very humble guy. I

used to see him at the Ocean County Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day celebrations they had.

The mayor and the town council of Toms River are even working to have a new VA outpatient clinic being built off Hooper Avenue named in Lomell’s honor, with resolutions already in place.

“[Lomell was] one of the pillars of the town,” said Hill. “He’s done a lot for the community.”

Preliminary indications are that the measure will pass and that Lomell’s name will be adopted for the clinic.

─Photo by Mark Bator

A number of audience members related their personal stories and recollections about the WWII hero.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

My Mental Health Is Bad, How About Yours?

Mental health is probably the most important kind of health care. It trickles down to everything else. If you are depressed, for example, you won’t want to take care of the rest of your body. It all starts at the top.

I suffer from anxiety and depression. I have for decades but only did something about it a few years ago.

I wish I had taken it seriously when it started in high school. I couldn’t always focus, and my moods went from super happy to super sad. I didn’t really think anything of it because I just described a basic teenager.

By the time I got to Montclair State University, I was telling my teachers that I might have to leave early because I can’t sit through classes. “It’s not

Offshore Wind Ensures A Future For Our Shores

If we want to sustain our beachfront backyards, we need to start investing in our environment. Clean energy is coming to the shore and we can’t afford to miss it. Ocean Wind 1 will be the

you, it’s me,” I said. Remember that Far Side cartoon where the kid asks if he can be excused because his brain was full? That was me. After about a half an hour, I couldn’t handle any more stimuli. I was pressing my fingernails into my arm to try to keep my mind from wandering.

You would think that would be a warning sign, but no... I thought I was too tough for that. I had created a bunch of crutches to get by instead of dealing with the problem in my head head-on.

About 5 years ago, I finally gave in and started taking a happy pill every day. I didn’t even have to go to a psychiatrist – my own general practitioner was able to prescribe.

The first pill took the edge off, but didn’t solve the problem. So, we upped the

dosage. That was ok but it didn’t get the job done. So, we tried a different med. That pill worked even better but I still had some freak-outs for no reason. Finally, the pill I’m on now is pretty good. There are still bad days but I think I’m mostly in the groove with it. I share these trials and errors because I want you to know that simply taking a pill isn’t going to solve everything. You’re still going to have to adjust it, and put the work in. But it’s work worth doing.

Now that I’m on the mend, I can’t believe how long I let myself suffer. I could have been happier for 25 years. A quarter century of “just getting by.” I’m kicking myself now. Why did I wait?

I’ve never been at the point where I was going to hurt myself or others

so, to me, I didn’t think I really needed help. I didn’t realize that all this time I really was hurting myself. And I could have been a better husband and friend during those years if I was able to crawl out of my cave long enough to do so. And worst of all, having a toddler while dealing with extreme mood swings was bad. Real bad. There’s a connotation to being “crazy,” obviously. No one wants to be called that – or to think of yourself as that. But we’re all a little nuts, honestly.

I’ve never been to a therapist. I check in at the GP every so often, fill out a questionnaire, and I’m done. What I’ve said to people is “My life is great, but my brain doesn’t let me enjoy it.”

Our brains are full of

Letters To The Editor

chemicals and electrical impulses. Sometimes, your wiring will be off. That’s nothing to be ashamed of. If you need a cup of coffee to get your head on straight in the morning, why not also take meds?

What’s the difference between taking a pill for a migraine and taking a pill for depression? They both make your head pain go away.

Part of the problem was that I’ve always been so independent that I would never ask for help. I kept thinking “I can handle this. I can fix this.” And I would ignore the evidence that I couldn’t.

I never played a sport in my life, how could I be macho? It turns out that it’s ingrained in us. Men especially are told never to ask for help. Americans got their start by literally

fighting for independence. That self-sufficiency is in our DNA. Add to it that Jersey strength and damn, we will fight like crazy and never back down. Never get help. Never admit weakness.

The strongest thing you can do is admit a weakness. It takes amazing bravery to swallow your pride and ask for help.

May is Mental Health Month, where caregivers are trying to eliminate the stigma that keeps people from getting the help they need. So, if I can admit my mental health issues to our tens of thousands of readers, I encourage you to tell the people you love and to tell your doctor. Don’t wait for 25 years like I did.

Chris Lundy News Editor

first offshore wind project in New Jersey and stands to represent a pivotal moment in fighting climate change as a society. I firmly believe that our communities, coastline, and wildlife can only benefit from supporting and utilizing clean energy.

With the looming threat of climate change, our environment requires more support

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

The Jackson 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 editor’s discretion.

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.

than ever. The future of our coastline faces an increased risk of flooding, diminishing marine life, and extreme weather. Many argue that we aren’t prepared to take on clean energy, and that we need more time to prepare for such an immense change in New Jersey. I would argue that we aren’t prepared for the consequences of our inaction. We cannot afford to sit idly by and wait for climate change to take our shores. According to the Barnegat Bay Partnership, New Jersey is “experiencing one of the highest rates of sea-level rise in the US” (Climate Change Impacts on the Barnegat Bay, 2020). Rising sea levels and warmer waters can prove disastrous for our local ecosystems, and we are not prepared for the damage. With Ocean Wind 1, we are fortunate enough to be at the forefront of the fight for our environment.

I urge New Jersey residents

to do their own research and take the time to learn about Orsted and offshore wind. We have already seen the effects of climate change on the Jersey Shore, and I strongly urge our communities to take action now by supporting Ocean Wind 1.

Sources: us.orsted.com/renewable-energy-solutions/offshore-wind barnegatbaypartnership. org/protect/threats-to-barnegat-bay/climate-change/ Climate change impacts on Barnegat Bay: barnegatbaypartnership.org/protect/ threats-to-barnegat-bay/ climate-change/

“Our Offshore Wind Projects in the U.S.” Offshore Wind Energy & Our Wind Projects in the U.S. | Ørsted, us.orsted.com/renewable-energy-solutions/offshore-wind

Ashley Larsen Toms River

Paramount Home Buyer Regrets Decision

My problems as a homeowner continue at Paramount Escapes Ocean Breeze in Barnegat. As one of the 31 homeowners who experienced a significant delay in the construction of my new home due to Paramount’s failure to comply with Affordable Housing regulations, I thought my problems with Paramount were over. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

Fifteen months after I had selected the lot and model home I wanted, I discovered that my house would have both front steps and steps into the garage. None of the model homes have these steps, and it was too late for me to do anything to change it.

Fast forward another seven months to closing. I discovered that the cement

entryway steps were uneven in height, narrow in width and lacked handrails. I also learned that the garage steps extended so far into the garage that I could not park my car on that side. My two-car garage is in reality a one-car garage, unless I decide to buy a Mini Cooper.

Paramount flatly refused to work out a compromise with me on the front steps. All they offered to do was bring the steps up to code by making the risers of equal height. It’s no surprise that I didn’t accept Paramount’s offer. There is no point in ripping out the steps a second time in order to achieve a safer result with a wider footprint and handrails.

I now regret that I didn’t get my deposit back from Paramount last summer and walk away when I had the chance to do so.

Dorothy Quail Barnegat

The Cliff That Never Should Have Been

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

“Fiscal cliff.”

We’ve heard that phrase before, and now we’ve heard it again. Frustratingly, it means our government has let us down, allowing conditions to fester until we’re at the brink of a financial emergency.

It’s outrageous.

By now, there’s probably no parent of students and no school staff member in Jackson who doesn’t know what I’m talking about already. What the state’s school funding formula has done to Jackson is appalling, and unfortunately it’s not over yet.

Watching the final school budget presentation by Superintendent Nicole Pormilli is both saddening and maddening at the same time. (Go watch it on the school board’s website under “Budget and Financial Information.”) She clearly and painstakingly explains what the state law known as Senate

bill 2 (S-2) has wrought, and the efforts she and others have been forced to make to minimize the harm.

“We have reached the fiscal cliff, and after six years, we have lost so much and yet we still have to lose more,” she said. She explained that Jackson was only saved from the fiscal cliff last year by federal Covid-related funds and a grant called stabilization aid.

Unfortunately, Jackson’s state aid was cut yet again this year for the sixth straight time, creating a “budget crisis” now in the superintendent’s words. Still another cut is expected next year.

Ms. Pormilli reported that the $18 million the state has cut over six years is fully one-third of total aid, and is three times the amount that might be justified by lower student enrollment. Yet Jackson schools have been fiscally responsible, ranking 14th lowest in cost per student out of 92 K-12 districts, she noted.

All of this is not for lack of trying to get Trenton to understand why S-2 must be

replaced by a reasonable state funding law. I testified before the Assembly Budget Committee on its harmful financial impact on school districts like Jackson. I also suggested specific school budget items, such as transportation and special education, that the state could help fund to offset formula-based cuts that still appear to be on the way.

Unfortunately, that seems to have fallen on deaf ears. Now we’re seeing neighboring school districts like Freehold Regional announce they are cutting courtesy busing to close the financial gap caused by these S-2 cuts.

Along with Ms. Pormilli, I also met with Gov. Murphy’s staff to explain the real-world effects of the funding law he signed. They listened and were professional throughout, but gave us no indication things could change.

Wanting to get a message more directly to the governor, I also sent him a letter reviewing the facts we shared with his staff, and pointing to legislative proposals I’ve introduced to end or mitigate the effects of S-2. I’ve proposed a range of options, from fully eliminating all state school aid

cuts this year, to significantly increasing stabilization aid and restoring “education rescue grants,” to smaller ways to alleviate cuts such as allowing schools to transfer capital reserve account funds to the general fund for current expenses.

As I told the governor, I’m ready to speak with anyone at any time to try to find some common ground on solutions to school funding issues. As we all know, this is not some wonky policy issue, it’s something that directly affects our kids, as well as our friends and neighbors who help educate them.

While we continue to work the problem, though, we can also appreciate the bright side of things in the Jackson schools. From school board members to administrators to teachers, the people I’ve spoken with give me great confidence that they will do everything they can to preserve the quality of education that your children and mine receive, and I received, in Jackson. Cliffs belong in the wilderness, not in our schools’ finances.

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

New Law Responds To Attacks Against Doctors, Nurses

From The Desk Of The Governor Phil Murphy

TRENTON – In response to increased attacks on health care workers in recent years, Governor Phil Murphy signed the ‘Health Care Heroes Violence Prevention Act’ to make it a criminal offense to intentionally threaten health care professionals or volunteers in an effort to intimidate them or interfere with their work. The act also establishes additional penalties against individuals who assault health care workers or volunteers.

Under the bill (A-3199), a person who knowingly and willfully makes, delivers, or sends a threat against health care workers covered by the act is guilty of a disorderly persons offense, which is punishable by imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine of up to $1,000. For individuals convicted of assault against the covered workers, this act allows them to be sentenced to an anger management course of up to 12 months and community service of up to 30 days.

“If there’s one thing the COVID-19 pandemic made abundantly clear,

it is the essential role health care workers play in our society,” said Governor Murphy. “Growing threats and attacks against these courageous heroes are unacceptable. We owe health care workers, including volunteers and employees in health care settings, our gratitude and respect. This law will provide greater protections for health care workers in our state to help deter both physical and verbal acts of violence against these professionals.”

“Protecting health care workers is essential to maintaining a strong and viable workforce and ensuring public health,” said Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “Their tireless commitment to improving health care delivery and saving lives should be without the additional worry of their physical and mental well-being.”

The act applies to health care professionals, as well as any volunteer or employee of a health care professional or health care facility, while in the course of performing their official duties. Health care facilities and certain physicians will be required to display a written notice to notify the public that it is a crime to assault health care workers and volunteers, and is subject to a fine,

imprisonment, or both.

Sponsors of the bill include Senator Troy Singleton and Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald, as well as Senator Fred Madden and Assembly members Shavonda Sumter, Sadaf Jaffer, Lisa Swain, and Daniel Benson.

“Over the last three years, our nurses, doctors and health care professionals were on the frontline of the COVID pandemic – often putting their own health at risk,” said Senator Singleton. “Sadly, this figurative battlefield turned literal, with people physically assaulting these essential workers. This is simply unacceptable. This law will send a clear message that our health care workers must be treated with the respect, decency and civility they deserve.”

“We could not have gone through the past several years without the dedication of our frontline healthcare workers. They are truly heroes in this pandemic. Unfortunately, these frontline healthcare heroes have reported a dramatic increase in violent acts since 2020,” said Assembly Majority Leader Greenwald. “These repeated acts of violence against our health care heroes are simply unacceptable. This law will strengthen protections for these frontline workers by enhancing penalties and awareness about violence in the workplace.”

“The law provides important new protections for health care workers. These healthcare workers provide critical services for their patients,” said Cathleen Bennett, President & CEO of the New Jersey Hospital Association. “Unfortunately, instead of showing appreciation and patience to healthcare workers, there has been an increase in workers being treated poorly. When that leads to violence, we must act to protect healthcare workers. With the enactment of this measure, Gov. Murphy, Senator Singleton and Majority Leader Greenwald send a strong message that the tireless efforts of healthcare workers are appreciated and valued.”

“Health care workers are five times more likely to be assaulted than any other workforce, adding to the many reasons healthcare workers are migrating out of the profession,” said Debbie White, HPAE President. “We applaud the Legislature and the Governor’s office for the passing of this bill into law – the Health Care Heroes Violence Prevention Act. It’s a step forward in taking reasonable measures to minimize our risks. It’s time to treat workplace violence in healthcare settings with the seriousness this crisis warrants. If our hospitals and nursing homes are unsafe for workers, they are unsafe for our patients too.”

School:

Continued From Page 1

in staff, we will see class sizes increase,” Superintendent Nicole Pormilli said. The dire financial position was created by the bill commonly referred to as S-2. This transferred state aid away from some districts like Jackson and gave it to other districts. Local school officials have been

fighting this change but have been unsuccessful in overturning it.

Pormilli said that revenue cuts like this “are impossible to have without an impact on a school district. We’ve been meeting with our Ocean County School Superintendent multiple times to review, line by line, our budget.”

The S-2 formula was to be based on a school district’s pupil population but “our state aid cuts far exceed our enrollment

decreases,” Pormilli added. Decreases in enrollment are leveling a bit.

Less Extracurriculars

Pormilli also reported, “there will be a reduction in extracurricular activities. We will be eliminating transportation for offsite practices. There will be reductions of assistant coaches in many of our sports. We took this approach so we could keep the majority of our athletic program.”

Ice hockey and gymnastics will see a reduction based on participation levels and expenses. “Even with all these cuts we are still not in a place where we have balanced our budget,” Pormilli added.

District Needs Loan

The spending plan has put the district in the position of having to take out a $10 million loan to balance its budget. “We can’t cut anymore. We have lost way too much over six years. Cutting any more unravels the school district. We cannot raise the revenue any other way,” Pormilli said.

Board of Education President Guiseppi Palmeri said, “even with this loan we had to make hard decisions for the 2023-24 school year by cutting over $5 million from our budget. These decisions never come lightly and they hurt every time.”

Palmeri told the superintendent, “I know this was not easy. I know what you and your staff put together is the best possible outcome of a very terrible situation.”

In March the district learned that instead of losing an expected $2.5 million in aid, it would be hit with a $6.2 million reduction. Bills passed in the legislature in response to the budget emergency brought that figure to $2.1 million.

“We have other aid that has kept us afloat,” the superintendent said. She noted stabilization aid and ESSER Covid-19 fund. “That has helped us over the last two years to not hit this fiscal cliff, earlier however those funds have now dried up and we find ourselves in this scenario.”

No Surplus Left

Pormilli added, “year after year we have chipped away at our surplus. We have now expended all of that surplus. There is no more surplus to use and we have a constant rise of required expenditures that are outside the district’s control.”

“The majority of what we spend our money on is what we should be spending our money on - which is our students The second largest expenditures are for salaries. We have a lot of staff and we need to pay for their salaries and their increments in their contracts and for health benefits,” she explained.

Officer:

Continued From Page 1

Chief Kunz added, “CJ chose to attend Rutgers University in New Brunswick where he was awarded a student athlete scholarship as an offensive lineman for the Rutgers football team. While attending Rutgers, CJ achieved the accomplishment of academic all-American three times and the distinction of being a big 10 distinguished scholar.”

“He graduated with honors in 2022 with a degree in criminal justice and two minors - one in sociology and a second in psychology. He joined the Ocean County Police Academy in 2023 and will be graduating in June. He will be the third-generation police officer following the footsteps of his grandfather and father,” the chief added.

“From one Scarlet Knight to another, I expect great things from you. You are going to make this work out well because we had to give up three round picks and a lot of cash to get you here,” the chief joked regarding a NFL draft and the large height and build of Hanson who retained his grid iron stature.

Chief Kunz thanked the mayor and the council for their support of the police department and approving new hires when needed.

In other business, Councilman Nino Borrelli noted the upcoming Township Memorial Day Parade on May 29 that will assemble at the Holman Elementary School. It will start at 10 a.m. and proceed down Manhattan Street heading toward Johnson Park where other activities including a memorial service will take place.

For more information contact Jackson Police officer Mike Basso by calling 609-994-6468 or e-mailing him at mbasso@jacksontwpnj.net.

“This is where we honor veterans and those who were lost in their service. We had beautiful weather last year and we hope it is a good weather day this year,” he added.

Councilwoman Jennifer Kuhn reported on the Jake’s Got This softball fundraiser held recently at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws stadium in Lakewood that involved members of the township police and fire departments swinging it out on the ball field. “It was a great, great afternoon of fun with the kids and for a great cause.”

She also noted a video by township firefighters concerning fire safety with bonfires.

“Prayers go out to all the family members from the shooting in Texas. It is unbelievable. It takes a coward to do that and I hope justice will be

served,” Councilman Scott Sargent said. Council President Martin Flemming was questioned about the sale of his home by a resident and if he intended to stay in Jackson and continue his term.

Flemming said that while he did sell his family home, “we still own properties in town. I’m going to stay as long as I can, yes.”

Photo by Bob Vosseller Chief Matthew D. Kunz, at left in uniform, joins new officer Charles Hanson, a Jackson resident who is being sworn in by Township Clerk Mary Moss as a family member holds the Bible during a recent Jackson Township Council meeting.

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.

Introducing Handsome Bradley. He came into the rescue with his sister Spice. He is a very playful and loving and he loves to play with both the humans and kitties in his foster home! His absolute favorite toy is the wand toys, he will spend hours chasing after it! Bradley has a very funny personality and is bound to put

a smile on your face! At the end of the day he loves cuddling up next to his foster mom in bed and get lots of scratches! He is neutered, 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

─Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

Assemblyman Sauickie Announces Motor Vehicle Services In Jackson

JACKSON – Responding to a community request, Assemblyman Alex Sauickie has arranged for the state Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to send a mobile unit to Jackson so that local residents can have convenient access to services they may need.

Sauickie (R-Ocean) said it was “truly a team effort” to make the arrangement.

“This was made possible only by the cooperative spirit of several fine people,” Sauickie said. “We contacted the MVC and got a great response, along with the requirements for hosting the mobile unit. The county library in Jackson seemed to fit the bill, so we first got approval from Ocean County Commissioner Director Joseph Vicari, who oversees the library system. We then worked with the library

staff and MVC personnel to finalize the plan. I’m very grateful for all the help from everyone involved,” Sauickie said.

Sauickie noted the idea is one of many he has received from people he has met.

“Elected officeholders have a reputation for doing a lot of talking, but listening is much more valuable,” Sauickie said. “I had the pleasure of meeting with Chaplains Yisroel Bursztyn and Yaakov Wenger, and in one of those meetings they suggested bringing the mobile unit to Jackson. I thank them and so many others for their ideas on how to help people.”

The mobile unit will be in the library parking lot on eight dates this year: May 24, July 7, August 1 and 30, September 6, October 2 and 31, and November 6. Hours will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Charitable Knitters Seek Yarn Donations

JACKSON – Your unused yarn can be transformed into something special for someone in need. The Knit-Chat-Chain volunteers of the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch seek donations of yarn, from the beginning of June to the end of August.

Knit-Chat-Chain volunteers use the yarn to make items which are donated for dis-

tribution to disadvantaged people in Ocean County and neighboring communities. New members are welcome. Meetings alternate on Mondays at 10 a.m. or 6:30 p.m.

Donations of new four-ply worsted yarn in all colors can be brought to the Branch throughout summer. To find out more, visit the Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, or call 732-928-4400.

Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Place Of Death, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory

Located at:

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst 732-657-7868

www.DeGraFFFuneralHome.Com

& Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

Theatre Guild: “And The Show Did Go On”

JACKSON – Members of The Four Seasons at South Knolls Theatre Guild had the biggest smiles on their faces for three consecutive nights at they received standing ovations for their theatrical production, “Broadway Meets Pop.”

It was a sellout to very happy audiences who were treated to a collection of song, dance and of course comedy skits that brought the house down.

This show, which was originally scheduled three years ago, was delayed due to the pandemic, but this fun-loving group knew their time had come. Weekly rehearsals drew this Guild together to perform their numbers to perfection. You could see how their audi-

ence was amazed that their neighbors and friends had such hidden talent. “Broadway Meets Pop” was written and directed by residents Rose Ciaburri & Maria Esposito Besignano. Resident Frank Ricucci was the technical director and Ben Leibowitz was the narrator.

Numbers included selections from Broadway and TV shows, including “Cabaret,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall,” “West Side Story,” and “Hair” just to name a few. The show was performed on the rainiest weekend in April, but that didn’t deter the audience from arriving on time. As they say, “And a fun time was had by all.”

─Photo courtesy Four Seasons at South Knolls

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.

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

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Dark Side Of Medicine: 10 Outrageous And Horrific Treatments

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Today, I will explore the dark and disturbing history of medical treatments. While these methods may seem shocking and gruesome by today’s standards, they were once considered cutting-edge solutions.

As we delve into the past, it’s important to appreciate the progress we’ve made in medicine. Additionally, I’ll briefly speculate on current treatments we do today, that may be viewed as primitive in the future. It’s scary to think about it.

Tight now let’s explore 10 fascinating and bizarre historical remedies and reflect on medicine’s hall of shame:

Bloodletting: Bloodletting, a widespread medical treatment in ancient and medieval times, aimed to restore balance by draining blood to rectify an imbalance of the four “humors.” Despite its popularity, bloodletting often led to infection and death.

Trepanation: Trepanation involved drilling holes into the skull to release evil spirits or pressure, with the intent of treating conditions like headaches and epilepsy. This risky procedure persisted until the 18th century.

Mercury as a Cure-All: Mercury was once considered a universal remedy for various ailments, including syphilis and toothaches. However, its toxic nature caused severe side effects and contributed to neurological damage, as seen in hatters during the 19th century.

Tobacco Smoke Enemas: In the 18th century, tobacco smoke enemas were used to treat respiratory issues and even revive drowning victims. This practice, based on the belief that tobacco smoke could warm the body and stimulate respiration, proved ineffective and dangerous.

Lobotomies: Lobotomy, a procedure that severed connections in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, gained popularity in the 20th century as a treatment for severe mental illnesses. Despite its initial promise, it often resulted in severe side effects and has since fallen out of favor.

Animal-Dung Ointments: In ancient Egypt, animal dung was believed to possess healing properties and was used to treat various ailments. However, this unsanitary practice introduced harmful bacteria and worsened infections!

Mummy Powder: Powdered mummies were used as a medical treatment in the belief that they possessed curative properties. This practice, which persisted for centuries, was not only ineffective but also contributed to the destruction of historical artifacts.

Hemiglossectomy for Stuttering: During the 18th and 19th centuries, doctors believed that stuttering resulted from an unusually thick or long tongue. Hemiglossectomy, the removal of a portion of the tongue, was thought to cure the condition but often led to severe complications.

Strychnine as a Stimulant: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, strychnine, a highly toxic alkaloid, was used as a stimulant and performance-enhancing substance. However, its poisonous effects posed significant risks to health.

Cocaine as a Miracle Cure: Cocaine was once hailed as a miracle cure for various ailments and was widely used in medicine and everyday products. However, its addictive and dangerous nature eventually led to its decline and regulation. While we can’t predict the future, some current medical practices might be considered primitive in years to come. Chemotherapy’s non-selective nature, electroconvulsive therapy’s side effects, organ transplantation’s risks, and the necessity of amputations may one day be replaced by more targeted and advanced alternatives. We can only hope!

Reflecting on the past, it’s evident that our understanding of health and medicine has come a long way. These historical treatments serve as a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the importance of evolving our therapies so that they are less invasive and more effective.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Consider A Caregiver Agreement

By: Marc S. Galella, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

A Caregiver Agreement is a written contract entered into between a person needing care and a person providing care. Usually, the Caregiver Agreement is between an adult child and a parent, a relative or a friend. Through the use of a Caregiver Agreement, the disabled or elderly person can transfer money to family members as compensation rather than as a gift.

A properly prepared Agreement specifically lists what services the child is to provide to the parent and at what price. The Agreement must be in writing and entered into before the compensated services are rendered. Since the caregiver child is getting “paid” they must report the income for tax purposes. In some cases, the parent may be able to deduct the payments as a medical expense.

The advantages of having a Caregiver Agreement include establishing clear caregiver compensation, providing a practical housing arrangement and assisting a Medicaid plan.

Family members overwhelmingly provide the care for elderly and disabled loved ones at home. Although it’s a labor of love, taking care of ailing loved ones also has a market value, meaning that caretakers can be paid as a way to protect assets. It’s only fair that the child who is caring for the parent should be paid for the services. When a caregiver’s compensation is memorialized in a legal document, allegations by other siblings are minimized because the contract spells out the details. Further, to protect family relationships, it’s recommended that all family members agree with the Arrangement even if they are not parties to the agreement.

By having a Caregiver Agreement the parent may be able to avoid a nursing facility by providing for the parent to be able to remain in the parent’s home or the home of the caregiver instead of a nursing facility.

A Caregiver Agreement can also be part of a Medicaid plan. As long as the Agreement is correctly drafted, and both parties abide by its terms, funds payable to the caregiver under the Agreement will accelerate Medicaid eligibility. Since payments are made for the services rendered, they should not be treated as gifts. This will thwart Medicaid penalties as a result of giving money directly to the caregiver child. Since caregiver agreements transfer money over a period of time, they are better entered into sooner rather than later.

The child should consider the following points if the child feels uncomfortable about taking money to care for the parent:

• A third party caregiver would get paid for caring and giving room and board to the parent;

• If the parent were to apply for Medicaid, money that the child could have been paid for legitimately caring for their parent will instead be paid to the nursing home as part of a Medicaid spend down.

A proper Caregiver Agreement can be a valuable elder-law planning tool in the right circumstances. Contact R.C. Shea & Associates (732-505-1212) to see if a Caregiver Agreement makes sense for you.

Marc S. Galella Esq.

The Osprey Of New Jersey – From Endangered To Comeback

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

The osprey, a raptor (bird of prey) is also known as the fish hawk, and their abundance could be spotted along the Jersey coast. With a six-foot wingspan, they soar in the skies plucking fish from the local waters. When DDT pesticides came into use, their diet of fish exposed to pesticide resulted in stunted osprey reproduction. Their eggshells were thinner, causing a decline in their numbers.

The New Jersey endangered species list reported there were less than 50 nests in the state by 1974. DDT use was banned,

and the osprey numbers started to slowly increase. Tree lines were replaced by development. The work of conservation groups erecting platforms encouraged osprey nesting in the marshy habitats. There were over 200 healthy pairs nesting there by the mid-1980s.

More than 800 platforms exist in our state with approximately 75% of osprey nests utilizing these man-made structures. The diligent efforts by The Nature Conservancy and other conservation groups, the osprey numbers in our state are thriving. In 2022, it was estimated by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey,

that approximately 733 pairs nested in our state during that time. This number is an increase of 45 new nests from the prior year 2021. While there was a total of 206 pairs that failed to produce young, there were 720 young produced from the 555 known-outcome nests throughout the state.

Weather has had an adverse impact on the nests; however, productivity has been well above what is needed to sustain the population. We can attribute the comeback of the osprey largely to conservation groups, in particular The Nature Conservancy, who, before nesting begins, repairs/replaces approximately 30 osprey platforms in southern New Jersey.

This consistent upkeep of nests is vital to the ospreys and their continued success in breeding. We owe a special thanks to The Nature Conservancy for their continued efforts in helping the osprey. Visit youtu. be/wEVbPGAWuGE for a live osprey stream.

I gathered the information for this article from 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 is punishable by law.

Real Estate

Toms River House For SaleSarasota 2 Bed 1 Bath, Brand new appliances, brand new paint, brand new carpets throughout. Open house Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun, May 11th -June 4th, 521 Jamaica Blvd. Holiday City 08757; or call 732-569-3174. (24)

Yard Sale

YARD SALE 10 Glen Rd Howell NJ, Saturday May 20, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rain date May 21. (23)

Estate Sale

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

Garage Sale

Annual Community Garage Sale - At Greenbriar I, Burnt Tavern Road, Brick on Saturday, June 3 (rain date Sunday, June 4) from 9-3. Over 60 families will be holding sales. Follow the balloons for the streets participating. Call 732-840-9496 with questions. (23)

Garage Sale 492 St. Thomas Dr., Toms River - Holiday City/Berkeley - Fri, Sat and Sun - May 19, 20, and 21, 2023 (R/S). 908-230-3822. All items must sell! From BricA-Brac to clothing to books and sporting goods. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m./3 days/Don't miss this! (23)

Auto For Sale

2004 Kia Amanti - Great condition. New tune up and fuel injectors. 33,500 miles. $3,200. (23)

Items For Sale

For Sale - Large cocco brown couch $250; Two twin beds white headboard/footboard $200; Black with six drawers, $300. Please call Mary 732-475-7770. (23)

Beautiful Furniture - Dinette set $150; kitchenette set $25; wardrobe closet $20; couch, loveseat and tables $100. All excellent condition. 413-626-6956. (24)

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. (26)

Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-abrac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

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)

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)

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)

(t/n)

Help Wanted

FULL TIME LAYOUT DESIGNER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

- Micromedia Publications is looking for an innovative and creative individual to join our production team. Duties will include layout of newspapers and support for our general manager, production manager and graphic artist. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign preferred but will train. Strong communication, typography skills and time management are a must. Please e-mail resume to Jason at jallentoff@jerseyshoreonline.com (t/n)

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

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 Individ

Services Services Services Services

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. (26)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

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

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

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267-475-7962. (22)

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)

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

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

Classifieds can be placed on our website jerseyshoreonline.com

1. Please use a seperate sheet of paper and attach this form. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad (counts as 1 word).

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:

2. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

*In order to qualify for discounts, the

Total = $

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

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

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

Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388.

R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)

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)

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)

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)

5. PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR BILLING ADDRESS (THIS IS REQUIRED) ADDRESS

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

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

photo of thE wEEk

The countdown to Memorial Day continues. Local resident Ryan J. Drewes captured this amazing sunset in Mantoloking recently. Want to share your pix

with our readers? What about a chance to see the Jersey Shore BlueClaws on us? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!

Clothing Drive For Special Needs Children

JACKSON – Let your spring cleaning make an impact! Jackson Elks is running a clothing drive for special needs children, now through May 31. Your clothing donations will not only benefit special needs children, but will also be given to homeless children and

people in need. They will pick up! Simply leave a message at 732-363-4101 or email JacksonElks2744@gmail.com to arrange pick-up or drop off. Shoes are accepted, please place in a separate bag.

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!

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword p uzzle

a player-for-player deal

44 Busy-bee link

45 “Trés __”

47 GPS info

48 *Sheriff Woody’s sidekick

52 “Silas Marner” child

53 Plaza de toros cry

54 Lily pad squatter

57 Sap

59 Erode, with “away”

62 Team’s lack, in a clichŽ

63 Scot’s swimming spot

64 *Spoken language, in semiotics

68 Tennis great who wrote “Days of Grace”

69 First lady not married to a president?

70 1996 slasher film

71 “To __ not ... “

72 Lunch bread

73 Pasta unit

Down

1 Workout aftermath

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

34 Towel material

38 Ruth on a diamond

39 “Sure, probably”

40 Andalusian vegetable soup served cold

41 Bell-shaped lily

43 Ignoring, with “to”

46 Org. with Jets and Flyers

49 Instrument laid flat during play

50 Many a freshman

51 Like 70-Across

55 “Paper Moon” Oscar winner

56 Tot’s sassy demand ... or a hint to the start of the answers to starred clues

58 River of Flanders

60 YWCA part: Abbr.

61 1997 Mattel acquisition

63 Chem class part

65 Climbing greenery

66 “Wow!”

67 Sellout letters

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of MAY 20 - MAY 26

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): An enthusiastic new friend might encourage you to overspend or take unnecessary risks. You could be at odds with someone who may want to take advantage of your honesty or sincerity. Putting on airs can lead to misunderstandings, so remain true to yourself.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Try to keep your attentions focused on purposeful plans. It can be important to surround yourself with positive, encouraging people. Keep an eye on your finances and avoid making large investments or major purchases for now.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may feel overly sensitive to criticism and could be easily upset by instability. This is not a suitable time to take on new ventures or projects. Take this time to focus on your mental health and find small ways to relieve some of your pressures.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take your time regarding your finances. If you are in too much of a hurry to make a purchase, you could have regrets later. Be skeptical about possibly risky investments and you will be able to skate past thin fiscal ice.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Boundaries could be put into place and should be respected. Someone may poke holes in possible plans or red tape could prevent you from achieving your objectives. You may find that getting your way might not always lead to contentment.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Let facts be your friend. Obtaining a straight answer from companions may be as difficult as herding cats. You may need to practice more patience and understanding when interacting with ill-tempered people.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Impulsive people may pressure you into making changes to your career, finances or personal life. You may be tempted to take advantage of someone’s loyalty but remember that impulse decisions could lead to issues later on.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Try to find a place to burrow away far from possible noise and distractions. You may need a quiet space to fix problems or address deficiencies. Someone might agree with you on the surface but could be fixated on their own agenda.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): During an internal game of tug of war, either side could end up falling into the mud. You might wrestle with your conscience about trying something new and stimulating when it could be wiser to stick to what is tried and true.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Pump up your persistence and you can prevent getting detoured by possible controversies. This may not be a good time to question the rules or to ignore your responsibilities. Stick to what you know and avoid experimenting for now.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may be willing to focus on all work and no play. Your ambitions may be at a high point, perhaps because you feel the crunch of having more expenses than income. Follow any rules to avoid possible disapproval.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Having a good relationship with the people you meet could be like petting porcupines. You may need leather gauntlets rather than kid gloves to manage some relationship issues. Maintain a low profile and avoid arguments for now.

HOMEMADE PUDDING IS THE PERFECT WAY TO END YOUR MEAL

By America’s Test Kitchen

SMALL - BATCH CREAMY CHOCOLATE PUDDING

Serves 2

3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon espresso powder

3 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon Dutch-processed cocoa

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/4 teaspoon table salt

3 tablespoons heavy cream

1 large egg yolk

3/4 cup whole milk

1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 2 pieces

1 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped fine

1. Stir together vanilla and espresso powder in a bowl; set aside. Whisk sugar, cocoa, cornstarch and salt together

in a large saucepan. Whisk in cream and yolk until fully incorporated, making sure to scrape the corners of the saucepan. Whisk in milk until incorporated.

2. Place saucepan over medium heat; cook, whisking constantly, until mixture is thickened and bubbling over the entire surface, 4 to 6 minutes. Cook 30 seconds longer, remove from heat, add butter and chocolate, and whisk until melted and fully incorporated. Whisk in vanilla mixture.

3. Pour pudding through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl. Press lightly greased parchment paper against the surface of the pudding and place in the refrigerator to cool, at least 1 1/2 hours or up to two days. Whisk pudding briefly and serve.

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

(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