2023-06-24 - The Toms River Times

Pride Month Festival Returns For Fifth Year District Enrolling More Multilingual Learners

By Chris Lundy

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – June

is Pride month in New Jersey and among the events held around the state was the township’s 5 th Annual LGBTQ+ Pride Festival on Washington Street which had a large turnout.

Numerous vendors set up tables along the road, which was shut down for the event.

Some vendors were organizations that distributed information and promoted communication about issues.

Some were hoping to collaborate in order to benefit the community’s evolving Downtown district.

It also served to ad-

vance the mission of fostering a welcoming and comfortable environment for members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community

in the shore area “and our neighboring counties,” according to a statement from Toms River Pride on the Exit (Pride - See Page 5)

County Creating Homelessness Trust Fund

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY – After many years of criticism over the way Ocean County handles homelessness, the leaders are creating a trust fund that will pay for temporary housing and other services.

The county will charge a $5 fee on certain documents fi led or recorded with the County Clerk’s Office. In 2022, there were more than 130,000 documents, officials said. The fee is

expected to go into effect Sept. 1.

“Based on the number of documents recorded over the last three years, the fund could raise anywhere from $275,000 to $390, 000,” Commissioner Barbara Jo Crea said. “These funds are raised annually and will be used to support ongoing homelessness and housing instability programs along with the Code Blue program.”

Code Blue is a state law that opens shelters when the temperature ap-

proaches freezing. All of the shelters are run by volunteers, church groups, and nonprofits.

The money will stay in Ocean County, officials said.

“We can use the funds raised by the Homelessness Trust Fund with more flexibility to provide rental assistance vouchers, supportive services and prevention services,” Crea said.

The money also can be used for the

TOMS RIVER

– The number of multilingual students is set to nearly double between this school year and the next, and teachers are learning how to teach a diverse population.

Adrienne Gold, director of secondary curriculum and ESL coordinator, said during a recent Board of Education meeting that certain teachers will be certified as ESL (English as a Second Language) to meet the growing demand.

During the current school year, there are 400 multilingual students. Next year, there are at least 355 who are joining, she said. Of the new ones, about 200 are new to the country, and have “interrupted formal education.”

Gold and Rachel Cicala, the director of elementary curriculum, have been working

(Learners - See Page 5)

Temporary Cell Tower In Unpopular Spot

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – Local residents have a lot of hang-ups about a cellular tower installed recently. The tower is in the area of Route 35 and the pickleball courts at 6th Avenue. Ortley Beach res-

(Cell Tower - See Page 8) (Trust Fund - See Page 4)

DIRECT CREMATION $1995

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

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

idents have said it’s unsightly and the generator gives off a lot of noise.

Photos By Bob Vosseller

(Above) Musical groups were part of this year’s Pride Day festivities held in Downtown Toms River. (Below) A good-sized crowd is seen enjoying some great weather.

Photo by Bob Vosseller Neighbors are upset about the location of this cell phone tower.

Trust Fund:

Continued From Page 1 acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation of housing projects or units within housing projects that supply permanent affordable housing for homeless persons or families, including those at risk of homelessness.

“Per the Homelessness Trust Fund guidelines, the funds cannot be used by the County to build a homeless shelter,” Crea said. “They will be used to provide support services.”

The county will also create a task force to oversee the fund and serve as an advisory board to the commissioners.

“We are seeing increases in the under employed and families are having a difficult time making ends meet and keeping a roof over their head,” Commissioner Gary Quinn said. “We need to do more and this is one of the tools we have available to us to create a permanent funding source that can be used to help our residents.”

The funds can be used to interact with people coming in for shelter during Code Blue and get them the resources they need, he said.

“Nineteen percent of Ocean County households struggle with factors of housing insecurity,” Quinn said. “The creation of the Homelessness Trust Fund is in response to the changes we have seen in getting assistance to those who need it.”

The public hearing on the fund is scheduled for the July 6 Commissioner Board meeting held at 4 p.m. in Room #119 on the fi rst floor of the Administration Building located at 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River.

Advocates for the homeless welcomed the creation of the fund. Pastor Sue Jones of the Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition said it is a very positive step, not only in how to treat people in need, but it shows a change in how the homeless are being viewed. The fact that the county government is making this decision speaks volumes.

This will provide a continual source of funding that will help people in need immediately as opposed to something like a grant that’s not sustainable, she said.

There’s a stigma out there about homelessness; some people think all homeless people are mentally ill or addicts. The truth is that there are many different reasons that people end up in this situation, she said.

The majority of people calling their help line are not on the streets but one step away, she said. These are people whose landlords are giving them the boot illegally, for example. There’s also a large number of seniors,

particularly women, whose spouse has died and without two Social Security checks a month, they can’t make ends meet.

The major cause of homelessness is the lack of truly affordable housing, and the lack of good-paying jobs with benefits, she said.

The people on the streets are the visible sign of homelessness, but there are many more that the average person doesn’t see, she said.

The trust fund is not the total solution to the problem, she said, because homelessness is a complex issue that requires a complex response.

“We don’t expect the county to do it all,” she said. “We continue to be working with the county and municipalities to see how we can do this job better.”

When the county creates the task force to oversee the fund, she urged them to seat members who are well-versed with the plight of the homeless here and have a track record of making a difference.

Past Controversy

In previous interviews, county leaders have said they didn’t want to create the trust fund. They compared the $5 fee on documents to a tax levied on residents. It is unclear what led to this change.

Up until now, the county’s dealt with the homelessness problem by putting them up in motels when available. Being a shore community, that means only half the year.

The Asbury Park Press reported recently that the county had to pay out $1.5 million to the estate of a homeless woman who they placed in a motel and was murdered. Alecia Perreault, 29, was just 89 pounds and disabled from rheumatoid arthritis, and had begged to be moved from a motel she said was too dangerous.

Ocean County is one of the only counties in New Jersey that doesn’t operate its own homeless shelter. This leaves nonprofits and houses of worship to open overnight-only shelters.

Advocates for the homeless sued the county to try to force them to open a shelter back in 2011. On a separate occasion, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission sued because Atlantic City was spending millions helping homeless people from Ocean County.

Nonprofit leaders have said that mayors have told them that they don’t want any shelter in their town. Some towns have been outright aggressive against the homeless. Lakewood’s government, for example, literally bulldozed a homeless encampment. They also removed trees from public areas to prevent homeless from sleeping under them.

Tour Catt us Island By Bike

TOMS RIVER – Cattus Island has a small amount of bikes to loan out for use within the park. The bicycles are free to use. 26-inch adult bikes and 20-inch children’s bikes and helmets are available. Helmets are required. You may borrow a bike for two hours,

seven days a week between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Bicycles may not be taken out of the park. No baby/toddler seats are permitted. A member of the group must provide a driver’s license for the staff to hold until the bike is returned.

Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

Pride:

Continued From Page 1

82 Studio Theater home page. There were food vendors, shopping and various activities. ASL interpreters were present during all mainstage performances. Toms River Pride partnered with the Virtual Queer Library for a book drive during the day.

Some attendees noticed a religious group that attempted to drown out a speaker during the opening of ceremonies. The protestors were told by police to cease use of their bullhorn.

This wasn’t the first time a religious group came on the scene to heckle attendees at this event. The incident quickly passed and attendees were able to enjoy the rest of the day as intended.

Many that were present carried the rain-

Learners:

Continued From Page 1

with Georgian Court University to train teachers to oversee a cohort of multilingual learners in district. They would be at South Toms River Elementary, Washington Street Elementary, Intermediate South and High School South, which are the schools closest to where the kids live.

A cohort, according to GCU’s website, means a group of students who learn together as peers as they progress through their education.

The training would be supported by the federal funding from the American Rescue

bow flags and wore rainbow attire including capes.

Pride Month originated in June in observance of the Stonewall Uprising, which was an important turning point in the struggle for LGBTQ+ equality. The incident involves members of the New York City Police Department who raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar, during the morning of June 28, 1969. While raids were common, patrons fought back which resulted in several days of violent altercations in areas of Greenwich Village.

The situation sparked the observance of Gay Pride Day on the last Sunday of June. Later it evolved to include various events in June such as pride parades, parties, concerts, workshops and lectures throughout the nation and even internationally.

Within the Garden State, according to the Movement Advance Project (MAP), around

Plan, Gold said.

This program will also prevent staff reductions that are being forced by the state cutting aid, she said.

The district would also reach out to neighboring schools who may be in similar situation to see if they want to join in the training.

Manchester Superintendent John Berenato said that last year, there were 103 multilingual students, and 157 as of June 1 of this year.

“In Manchester, we have already completed a cohort for our teachers in partnership with Georgian Court University,” he said. “We offer a SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol) in-house which equips non-

4.1 percent of the population - roughly 343,000 individuals - identify as LGBTQ.

The MAP tracks legislation targets. This year marks a large increase in legislation targeting LGBTQ rights, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. According to the ACLU, around 500 pieces of legislation across the country have been filed in their respective state legislatures in 2023.

For example, there are bills in the state Assembly that address LGBTQ issues. One would permit parents who object to curriculum or learning activities in public school to receive a voucher from their school district for their child to attend a nonpublic school while the other would bar transgender students from competing in girls’ or women’s sports at public or nonpublic schools and colleges. These bills have yet to be heard in their respective committees.

ELL (English Language Learners)-certified teachers with strategies and supports that they can use in the classroom with students who speak a second language.”

“We are adding additional ELL teachers to provide support, as well. We added K-2 at Manchester Township Elementary School to do our best to have our students at their home school. And, we also started Babbel (language software) as a team this year. We support ELLs through six levels of proficiency, based on how well the student understands and can produce the language. Part of the challenge is considering the level of instruction necessary to move students across the continuum of learning English,” he said.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

e DitoRiAL

Should Towns Ban New Gas Stations?

It seems there’s a gas station every mile or so on major roads, unless, of course, you’re running near empty. Then, you can’t find any.

Do we really need so many? Maybe at rush hour. And sure, the tourist traffic.

I can’t help but think we’re making a mistake in letting them be built all over the place. With the rise of electric cars, will gas stations be a fossil?

When a gas station closes down, it sits there forever. That’s because there’s really nothing else that property can be anymore. Those tanks can leak, poisoning the ground and eventually drifting into the aquifer. There’s also petroleum runoff from vehicles driving on them.

Every single gas station you see on the road today will likely be there forever. Think about that. Every single one.

The land is too small for a redeveloper to buy it, knock it down, and build something different on it. And even if they did, they’d have to install monitoring wells and get inspections and soil sampling. It would be too costly. There’s nothing they can build on that small lot to earn that much money back.

Letters To The Editor

Towns should not allow any new gas stations to be built, knowing that one day, decades from now, it will be an environmental mini-disaster and an eyesore.

However, maybe this electric car thing will be a fad.

An April 11, 2023 article in The New York Times said that 5.8% of vehicles bought last year were electric. That’s nowhere near the White House’s plan to have half of new car sales be electric by 2030.

Still, a lot of car companies are following that trend and making electric options.

A lot can change. The control of the federal government and its rules. Manufacturers might invent something different than gas or electric engines 20 years from now.

But one thing that won’t change is the gas station itself. That’ll be there for the rest of your life...and it will be there long after you and I are gone.

Town officials have the ability to choose what businesses go where. They need to give more thought to where gas stations get built, because once they are, they are here to stay.

Chris Lundy News Editor

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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 veri�ication. 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

Criminals Get Legally Bought Guns

One of the biggest arguments for the widespread protection of gun rights is “If you make owning a gun criminal, only criminals will have guns.” But no one asks where these guns are coming from in the first place. Where are criminals getting them? Every single firearm was legally purchased at some point.

There are a ton of statistics out there about where criminals are getting their guns. You’ll hear people say “Most criminals get their guns illegally, so tougher gun enforcement laws won’t change that.”

This ignores the fact that every gun was purchased legally...the first time. Gun manufacturers aren’t just selling guns out of the back of their factory to gang members. They make legal sales to stores. Stores make legal sales to people. Most of those people are law-abiding citizens and no one has to worry about them.

But then, something happens. That law abiding citizen sells the gun at a gun show or on the internet to someone who then uses it in a crime.

But if you look at the stats further, those 43% of criminals who bought the guns on the black market? Those black market guns were all legally bought at stores before they made it to the black market.

According to federal statistics (nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/ public-mass-shootings-database-amasses-details-halfcentury-us-mass-shootings), 77% of mass shootings in the past half century were done with legally-purchased guns. Again, this stat fails because 100% of these guns were bought legally the first time. The only way to stop illegal purchases of guns is to stop the legal purchases of guns as well. It always starts with a legal sale.

This is unrealistic because America will never give up its love affair with guns, but the point I’m making is to stop selling machine guns. If you stopped selling machine guns at stores, then eventually they won’t make it down to the criminal on the street.

People say “I need a gun to protect myself from criminals who have guns.” It doesn’t start with criminals. It starts with legal purchases every time.

“I was shocked to learn from our residents that the Freehold Regional High School district will be eliminating bus routes for students who live within a 2.5 mile radius of the schools due to the loss of approximately $6 million of state aid. I know our State leaders, Senator O’Scanlon, Assemblywoman Flynn and Assemblyman Scharfenberger have been tireless advocates for restoring state aid to schools that suffered severe losses here in Monmouth County.

It is my understanding that these requests have fallen on the deaf ears of the Acting Commissioner of Education, who has openly refused to address these funding cuts, almost as if it is above her pay grade and not within her authority. But, in reality, the Department should prioritize this issue, especially since there is an answer to this funding shortfall - the Governor can restore all state aid cuts by including those funds in the 2024 FY State Budget.

To date, the Governor and the Acting Commissioner of Education have refused to do so despite calls by our state elected officials to address this funding gap immediately.

suffer while the State funds nonessential projects like a $45 million pilot program for electric school buses when it fails to address the essential components of a student’s education? There is a simple solution to this problem. Governor Murphy, will you help the children of Marlboro now?”

Juned Qazi Marlboro Council President

TR Schools: Don’t Use Long Term Money For Current Expenses

Editor’s note: This letter is in response to the school’s plan to sell land next to Silver Bay Elementary to the township for open space.

Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect 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.

According to Fox News ( foxnews.com/us/where-docriminals-get-guns), legally purchased guns get into other people’s hands illegally by one of three ways. The first is a private transaction at a gun show or some other person-to-person situation. The second is when someone buys a gun legally as part of a criminal scheme to sell it to someone who later uses it for crime. The third is theft.

A 2016 survey released in 2019 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) found that some 43% of criminals had bought their firearms on the black market, 6 percent acquired them via theft, and 0.8 percent purchased a weapon from a gun show. Fox News quotes this survey but doesn’t include the fact that the survey supported Red Flag laws and other regulations like gun safes.

Any gun you own right now will eventually wind up in someone else’s hands. What will they do with it?

Chris Trawley Brick

Governor Needs To Reinstate School Funding

On behalf of the Marlboro Township Council, Council President Juned Qazi issued the following statement demanding that Governor Murphy and the Acting Commissioner of Education Allen-McMillan immediately restore state aid funding to the Freehold Regional High School District to avoid having students being forced to walk to school along busy and treacherous roadways which are not suitable for pedestrian use.

On behalf of Marlboro families and children, we implore the Governor to restore our state aid so that the students of Marlboro may travel safely to school in the upcoming school year. The mysterious state aid formula was prepared prior to the pandemic, when no one could have imagined the challenges schools are now facing due to learning loss, mental health costs, and never mind the astronomical increases in transportation costs – bussing costs alone have increased for schools over past year by 30%.

Why has the Department of Education left this to the towns to address? We cannot address those increases in costs within the budgetary cap limits imposed upon school districts and municipalities.

What is most frustrating is that the State has billions in reserves that can address this funding shortfall – why are the kids of Marlboro left to

The TR Regional School District should not use long term money for current expenses, specifically to sell land which is part of school property to TR Township and use the proceeds for current expenses. A small part over each of 5 to 10 years may be allowable, or all could be spent in one year for a significant purchase intended for use over many years, maybe, such as audio-visual learning (alone or along with other regional schools) to teach students and review with teachers giving very important support, but as I said, not for current expenses. My undergraduate and/ or graduate degrees were in Political Science, Psychology, Management, and Finance including budgeting along with considerable experience in many of those areas especially budgeting and digital information.

Two or three decades ago New Jersey used long-term bond money to pay budgeted current expenses to get voter approval by meeting the budget; some people have never forgotten that violation. Maybe the governor and legislature knew no better.

Walter “Mac” McInerney Toms River

Take notice, that the undersigned shall expose for sale, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.6, at public sale/auction a Jeep Patriot , 2008 , VIN/ Hull Identification Number 1J8FT28W08D750324

on June 23rd , 2023, 8:00pm at 24 Harpers Ferry Road, Toms River, NJ 08753 which came into possession of Michael Smit through abandonment or failure of owner’s to claim same. The motor vehicle may be examined at: 24 Harpers Ferry Road, Toms River, NJ 08753 .

Cell Tower: Continued From Page 1

The tower is expected to provide additional cell service during the busy summer months in an area that sometimes has spotty reception.

Anthony Colucci, president of the Ortley Beach Voters and Taxpayers Association, said that it had previously been on a nearby condominium. However, Verizon was difficult to work with so the condo association didn’t want to have it back.

He came to a Township Council meeting to ask why that location was chosen.

Township Business Administrator Louis Amoruso said “We didn’t get to choose. We were approached by Verizon.”

It might be unsightly, but it makes the town safer, he said. The township wasn’t involved in the situation last year.

Colucci said that the owners of the nearby

water tower was also approached but didn’t want the cell attachment either. The best location would have been the Ocean County Utilities property instead.

During this Council meeting, they authorized a license agreement with Cellco Partnership, doing business as Verizon Wireless, for the temporary use of the property, located at 1931 Railway Avenue, during summer months. Councilmen Daniel Rodrick and Justin Lamb voted against it but the rest approved it.

Colucci asked if the contract would be renewable. And if so, who has the option of renewing?

Amoruso said that this location was an emergency situation and it is only for this summer.

Council President Matthew Lotano said that Jersey Central Power and Light is installing a line, and then the generator will be turned off.

PERIORBITAL CELLULITIS

Cellulitis is a dangerous bacterial skin condition. When it appears in the form of “peri- orbital” (affecting the area around the eyes) cellulitis, it can infect the eyes as well as the skin around them. Periorbital cellulitis can begin with something as simple as a bug bite or a small cut, and it may even travel to the eyes from a sinus infection. People who have suffered methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are also much more susceptible to the condition. Once the eyes are infected, they become red and the eyelids swell, making it difficult to see. Fortunately, the condition is usually painless and easily curable with oral antibiotics. It can be prevented by keeping wounds, hands, and fingernails clean.

Periorbital cellulitis must be treated immediately to prevent serious complications. Periorbital cellulitis almost always improves with treatment. In rare cases, the infection spreads into the eye socket, resulting in orbital cellulitis. For your eye health, please schedule an appointment with SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Periorbital cellulitis is more common in children than in adults.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622

Smash-And-Grab Car Burglaries On The Rise In Toms River

By Alyssa Riccardi

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Police Department is warning residents not to leave valuable items inside their car due to an increase in smash-and-grab car burglaries in the area.

On Friday, Toms River Police posted an alert on their Facebook page regarding a group known as the “Felony Lane Gang,” who have been targeting vehicles in parking areas of public parks, gyms and recreation areas across the state.

Authorities have stated a list of things to be aware of when it comes to this group: They are often driving rental cars with out-of-state plates.

They are seeking purses in the car hoping to fi nd bank checks, debit cards, and driver licenses. They then forge and pass the checks at various banks using the stolen IDs.

They will drop off one person in the lot on foot who will utilize a spring loaded center punch to pop the vehicle side windows. The drop vehicle will often remain close by and in an over watch position in case law enforcement arrives.

They are very fast, usually in and out of a parking lot in only a few minutes.

They have been known in the past to be armed, so if people see this activity should report it and not approach these people.

BRICK (732) 477-6981

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020 www.oceancountyeye.com

This group originates from Florida and drives-up the eastern seaboard to commit these burglaries.

“Do not leave valuables in your vehicles, especially in plain sight,” Toms River Police said.

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES

JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES

SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

President & Publisher

Stew Swann Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff

News Editor

Chris Lundy

Production Manager Allison Gradzki

Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller

Graphic Artist Adriana Miranda

Distribution Manager Laura Hoban

Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano

Layout Designer Julia Wilkens

Local Pets Available For Adoption

AUG. 1-2 2 DAY ONE NIGHT WITH DONNY OSMOND $397/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 1 night stay, 1 Dinner, 1 Breakfast, Show and More.

AUG. 8-9 2 DAY BARBARA & FRANK THE CONCERT THAT NEVER WAS AT RESORTS

CATSKILLS CASINO $232/pp Dbl.Occ.

Day 1 $25 Slot Play, $20 Food Voucher. Day 2 $25 Slot Play, $15 Food Voucher, Private Lunch Buffet & Show.

AUG. 19 YANKEE VS. RED SOX’S $189/pp

Includes Main Level covered seating, Hot Dog & Drink.

AUG. 20-26 7 DAY MACKINAW ISLAND & DETROIT MUSIC CITY TOUR $1749/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 6 Nights Stay, Meals & More.

AUG. 28-30 3 DAY LAKE GEORGE & SARATOGA SPRINGS $659/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 2 nights lodging at the Hampton Inn & Suites, Lake George, Saratoga Race Museum, Step on Guided Tour, 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners, Tiki Show, Boat cruise on Lake George & more

SEPT. 4-7 4 DAY NEWPORT & BLOCK ISLAND $1179/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 3 Nights Stay, Meals & More.

SEPT. 5 A DAY IN CAPE MAY $139/pp

Includes 3 hour Whale Watching Cruise, Lunch at Lobster Show & Free time in town.

SEPT. 11-17 7 DAY MYRTLE BEACH $1399/pp. Dbl.Occ.

Includes 4 nights at Avista Ocean front Resort with your condo facing the beach and More

SEPT. 21 MOSES AT SIGHT & SOUND $144/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Center Orch Seat.

SEPT. 27 A DAY IN AMISH LANCASTER $84/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Visit to Jake’s Trading Post, Kitchen Kettle Village.

SEPT. 28 THE SPINNERS AT TROPICANA $107/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play, $15 Food Voucher and Show.

OCT. 1-3 3 DAY HAMPTONS RICH & FAMOUS TOUR $679/pp Dbl. Occ

Includes 2 Nights Stay, Meals & More.

OCT. 16-20 5 DAY MAINE FALL FOLIAGE ADVENTURE $1052/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 4 nights stay, 2 nights in Bar Harbor, Meals & More.

OCT. 25-27 3 DAY SALEM HAUNTED HAPPENINGS ADVENTURE $728/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes 2 Nights Stay, Meals and Lizzie Borden House Tour.

OCT. 26 SWEET CAROLINE MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO NEIL DIAMOND AT CAESARS CASINO $105/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play, $20 Food Credit and Show.

NOV. 1-6 6 DAY ARUBA $2849/pp Dbl. Occ.

Includes Riu Palace all inclusive resort, Air Fare, Bus Transportation.

NOV. 8 THE FIRST NOEL AT AMERICAN MUSIC THEATRE $153/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple before show, Center Orch Seat.

NOV. 14 MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS AT SIGHT & SOUND $156/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple before show, Center Orch Seat.

NOV. 17 HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT LONGWOOD GARDENS $125/pp

Includes Lunch.

TOMS RIVER – Pets like this one is available at the Toms River Animal Shelter. Meet Sky, she’s looking for a new best friend! She’s a super sweet, calm tempered girl who loves to play. She is 8 years old, enjoys walks, treats, and just being by your side.

She’d do best in a home with older children,

if any. She sometimes doesn’t realize how big she is and can jump.

She’s just a happy girl with a contagious smile. Come see for yourself! She’s been at the shelter for about 10 months.

For more information, call 732-341-1000 or visit tomsrivertownship.com/155/Animal-Control-Services

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

NOV. 18 A PLAYHOUSE CHRISTMAS AT HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE $136/pp

Includes a Plated lunch & Show.

NOV. 28 RADIO CITY HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR FEATURING THE ROCKETTES $224/pp

Includes Lunch before show, Center Orch Seat & Free time to visit Rockefeller Center.

NOV. 30 DOO WOP CHRISTMAS AT TROPICANA CASINO $103/pp

Includes $25 Slot Play,$15 Food Voucher & Show.

JAN. 17-27,2024 10 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE NORWEGIAN GETAWAY FROM NEW YORK BALCONY CABINS $2447/pp Dbl.Occ.

Includes Premium Beverage Package,

Photo courtesy Toms River Animal Shelter

Toms River Police Welcome Special Guest

TOMS RIVER – This kid is cool! Meet Alex Mann, a 23-year-old who travels to police departments across the country to show his support for law enforcement, and to educate the fi rst responder community about interacting with individuals who have intellectual or developments disabilities

(IDD).

Toms River Police was his 364th police department! Alex himself is autistic, and he is determined to make positive strides within the fi rst responder community. Join in wishing Alex lots of success and safe travels as he continues his mission!

Second Annual Craft Vendor Show

TOMS RIVER – Just Believe Inc. will be hosting their Second Annual Craft Vendor Show on July 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First Assembly of God. They will have food for

purchase and wonderful crafts and vendors for you to observe and look at and purchase. Proceeds to benefit Larry’s home a sober living house for veterans.

Photo courtesy Toms River Police

Unified Sports Debuts In

Toms River

TOMS RIVER - At High School East, games of flag football, soccer, basketball, and kickball have taken place throughout the school year. This is business as usual, of course, except that these particular games have been fully inclusive, involving students receiving special services and general population students, managed and facilitated by student and staff mentors, with paraprofessionals and nurses on site. They’ve been among the most popular activities the school has hosted all year.

And, more to the point, these games have been under the umbrella of Unified Sports, an initiative of the Special

Olympics.

The district is, officially, a participant of Unifi ed Sports, and received a $9k grant from Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) to implement the program this year at East. Additional grants of $9k for both High School North and Intermediate South to host the program will follow next year. All of this is thanks primarily to Christian Kane, founder of the RWJBarnabas Toms River Field of Dreams, the inclusive complex which has served as the site for many Unified Sports games this year.

“This has been, is, and will continue to

(Sports - See Page 14)

AMR Pharmacy at 1195 Airport Road, Suite 9B, Lakewood, NJ 08701 HAS CLOSED.

If you were a patient of AMR Pharmacy, you have the right to obtain a copy of your patient record.

Patient records have been transferred to 576 Central Avenue, Suite 301, East Orange, NJ 07018. Please contact 973-678-5500 and reference AMR Pharmacy with any questions.

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Valid through June 30th, 2024.

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

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools General and special education students play kickball at the RWJBarnabas Toms River Field of Dreams.

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A-South Boys Golf Crown Goes To High School East

TOMS RIVER – High School East’s boys golf team completed a fantastic 14-1 season by winning the A-South title. The varsity team was led by Tommy Renkin, Bobby Calvo, Jack Zulin, Billy Laudien, Aaron Palmer, and senior Ryan Fortunato. Congrats to them, their teammates, and head coach Michael Nemeth on a fantastic season!

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, fi re

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!

Summer In The Streets Festival

TOMS RIVER – Downtown Toms River’s Summer in the Streets Festival will be on July 15 from 12 to 6 p.m. Enjoy food, drinks, music and fun! Come meet your Toms River Fire Department #1 fighters while they serve up some beverages and BBQ food!

Toms River Intermediate School East Grades

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Hall Of Fame Inventor, STEM Mentors Meet Students

TOMS RIVER – Fifth-grade students from Walnut Street Elementary School were recently given a chance to discover all the ways that curiosity can be their superpower.

The students traveled to the AT&T Labs and Innovation Museum in Middletown, where they participated in hands-on activities that explored the processes of design, prototyping, reverse engineering, and even patenting their inventions.

The field trip and site visit utilized curriculum from Camp Invention, the district’s STEM-based summer program, called Open Mic to learn about the modern-day microphone invented by National Inventors Hall of Fame member James West.

“This experience was designed to open students’ eyes to the inventing process and expose them to potential future careers in STEM fields,” said Walnut Street teacher Benjamin Kleiner.

During lunch, each group of students was able to meet with a leading engineer

in their respective fields. This opportunity was not lost on the students, and they picked these mentors’ brains on how to become famous inventors and engineers themselves.

As a special surprise, students had the opportunity to meet National Inventors Hall of Famer Dr. Victor Lawrence. A prolific inventor, Dr. Lawrence’s work is widely regarded as a primary reason for advances in speech, audio, and digital videos.

“We would not be able to enjoy things like Youtube, Netflix, or even video games without the contributions of this legendary innovator,” said Kleiner.

Partnering with Walnut Street in this effort was New Jersey Teacher of the Year and Camp Invention director Christine Girtain, as well as High School East teacher Dylan Langford, and student volunteers from TCNJ, Johns Hopkins, and Stevenson University. The leadership team from IEEE Region 1 helped funding this extraordinary opportunity for students.

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Sports:

Continued From Page 11 be an opportunity for children and students of all abilities to compete – to genuinely participate in athletics in ways that general population students do, through sanctioned events and against their peers and other schools,” said Kane. A High School North teacher full time, Kane is also the father of Gavin, who

experienced a traumatic brain injury at a young age and who inspired his father to create the Field of Dreams, which debuted in 2022 after years of relentless work and fundraising. Aligning the district with Unified Sports was the next step in Kane’s vision for an inclusive utopia, particularly when it comes to play.

“Team sports bring people together,” reads the Specials Olympics’ website.

“Special Olympics Unified Sports teams

do that, too and much more. About 1.4 million people worldwide take part in Unifi ed Sports, breaking down stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities in a really fun way.”

Count Toms River Regional Schools students among those 1.4 million. And this latest venture in genuine inclusivity through team sports has been, appropriately, a team effort.

High School East teacher and coach

Danielle Foran has played a critical role, hosting Unifi ed Sports practices every Friday since March. The school’s Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Colleen O’Donnell has partnered with Dr. Alex Stribing from Kean University to run a sports training program at the complex.

“This has been an all-hands-on-deck initiative,” said Superintendent Mike Citta, “from our administrative support, to Christian’s work obviously, to the many meetings among many dedicated teachers and coaches, to community partnerships and parental support. And it’s all in the interest of making sure every student, of every ability, has the same opportunity to compete. That’s a truly beautiful thing.”

OHI Summer Carnival Fundraiser

NEW JERSEY – Ladies and gentleman! Boys and girls! Come one, come all to Ocean Health Initiatives’ annual summer fundraiser at D’Jais Bar in Belmar where exciting times await!

On June 28, OHI is hosting a carnival themed fundraiser to continue its mission of providing high-quality primary and preventive care services to the residents of New Jersey, regardless of who they are or their ability to pay.

They’re kicking off the summer with a real extravaganza down by the shore that includes carnival games, virtual rides, and a rich selection of everyone’s favorite noshes and morsels from the boardwalk.

As always, there will be a live DJ to keep the vibes going all night long, as well as an open bar, a silent auction, and a 50/50 raffle.

With your generous support and donations, OHI intends to invest in better medical equipment, community outreach, educational materials, vaccinations, health awareness, and much, much more.

A wide range of sponsorship opportunities are available! Your participation of a tax-deductible sponsorship or donation will be used to increase OHI’s dedication and commitment to serving the population that is reached by our Health Centers and beyond.

Purchase tickets online at ohinj.square. site . Purchase sponsorships online at ohinj.square.site

Berkeley Lady Seniors Upcoming Trip

BERKELEY – The Berkeley Lady Seniors are going by bus to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse to see “Remember Me” staring Joyce DeWitt on July 26. Tickets are $110 for your diner, the show and the bus. They leave at 9 a.m. from Berkeley Recreation Center at 630 Route 9 in Bayville. For tickets call Marge at 239272-6857 or 732-341-0726.

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Hearing Aids And Water

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

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

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

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

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

Try a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifi er 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 732818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609978-8946 (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!

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Rise Of Peptides: Unveiling The $48 Billion Phenomenon In Therapeutics

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

According to a recent report, the global peptide therapeutics market is projected to reach a staggering $48 billion in just a couple more years. These tiny but mighty molecules hold great potential in treating a variety of health concerns. Practitioners should spend a few minutes researching peptides because they are the next big thing! Let me give you the basics.

I’ve studied peptides for about 4 years and learned a lot. People are buying them online even though they’re not researchers and physicians. How else do you think we’ve hit 48 billion of dollars in sales… it’s not because a few universities did a study on mice!

The world of peptides is relatively new, and their use as “supplements” isn’t yet established. Most peptides are administered by self-injection so if you are needle shy, these will never be an option. Individuals are acquiring and using peptides by buying them online and just YouTubing dosages, creating a “Wild West” scenario. I don’t recommend that.

Here are the most popular peptides to consider and before self-treating please consult your physician:

1. BPC-157 - This peptide is one I’ve mentioned before in other blogs now archived on my website. It’s derived from a naturally occurring protein found in the stomach called “body protection compound.” It can be taken either orally or injected subcutaneously. It has potential benefits for wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and tissue repair properties. Oral vs. injectable administration might be even more effective for stomach problems.

2. ARA 290 - ARA 290 is also known as “EMA401” or “cibinetide” and it is a synthetic peptide that has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. I’ve mentioned this before in my article on Small Fiber Neuropathy now archived at my website. It is derived from the Erythropoietin (EPO) protein, which is involved in red blood cell production. Research on ARA 290 has been primarily focused on neuropathic pain, diabetic neuropathy, and sarcoidosis. It can lead to headaches and hypercoagulability.

3. SYN-COLL - This is a patented, synthetic tripeptide designed similarly to human collagen. It’s used for skin elasticity, firmness, and a more youthful appearance. That’s why I put this peptide into Collagen Beauty Peptide Serum. It works both topically and by sub-Q injection.

4. Thymosin Alpha 1 - Thymosin Alpha-1 is a synthetic peptide that looks like the natural hormone you secrete from your own thymus gland. It modulates the activity of T-cells and other immune cells. I use it myself. It was quite popular during the pandemic and is thought to help with autoimmune conditions.

5. Thymosin Beta 4 (TB-500) - This one promotes the healing and repair of damaged tissues and is particularly useful for the regeneration of joint and tendon tissues. It stimulates collagen and other essential structural proteins.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the most popular peptides and that you can see why they are growing so quickly. If you’d like to read more about this, sign up for my free newsletter at suzycohen.com.

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

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Republican Group Holds Scholarship Breakfast

FORKED RIVER – The Ocean County Federation of Republican Women (OFCRW) held their Annual Scholarship Breakfast on June 10 at the Captain’s Inn in Forked River.

All scholarship applicants were required to submit their academic transcripts, a short essay and be sponsored by an Ocean County Republican Club member. After reviewing several applications and receiving recommendations from the OCFRW Scholarship Committee chaired by Vicki Heslin, OCFRW was proud to award four highly accomplished young women with scholarships to be used for their higher education.

The following women received $500 scholarships from OCFRW:

• Erin Beaudry, Toms River East

• Eleanor Curatolo, Forked River

• Arianna Ponce, Toms River East

• Katelyn Rizzo, Toms River North

“We are so excited to be able to provide support to these exceptional young women as they head off to college through our OCFRW scholarship,” said Chairwoman Noriko Kowalewski. “Each year the applicants raise the bar through their hard work and dedication. We look forward to seeing the incredible accomplishments these young women achieve in their future endeavors.”

In addition to the scholarship presentation, guest speaker Alexis Bailey, Vice President of Government Affairs for the New Jersey Business and Industry Association congratulated our scholarship recipients and shared remarks with the attendees.

Everyone Is Gett ing Ready For July 4th Fireworks On The Toms River

By Chris Lundy

BEACHWOOD – An event that brings at least 15,000 viewers is drawing near, and Ocean County residents are preparing for it now.

It’s called Beachwood Fireworks On The Toms River, because it’s organized by Beachwood volunteers and elected officials. It’s just a few weeks away. Councilman Gerald LaCrosse, who noted his job involves making sure the weather is good for that night, said that the fi reworks are planned for dusk on July 4.

Residents are likely making plans on where to meet or where to set up their chairs and blankets, but there’s something else they could do to help prepare as well.

Although local officials are heavily involved in the planning of the fireworks, it’s not paid for by tax dollars. Rather, it relies on donations.

Checks can be made out to Beachwood Fireworks On The Toms River, and mailed to the municipal building at 1600 Pinewald Road, Beachwood, NJ 08722.

Photo courtesy Ocean County Federation of Republican Women

Appealing a Zoning Officer’s Decision

By: Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

Did you know that you can appeal your local Township Zoning Officer’s decision if you are denied the approval or issuance of a permit? The Zoning Officer, also referred to as the administrative officer, is the enforcement arm of zoning, and is the “gate keeper” to any construction you would like to take place on your property.

Before any individual or legal entity can undertake a construction project, they are required to make a request, also known as an application, for a zoning permit. Some examples of such applications include the construction of new buildings, additions to existing structures, decks, fences, pools, patios, sheds, generators, driveways, commercial buildings, tenancies, and signage.

When an application is filed, the Zoning Officer is then responsible for deciding whether your request conforms to the local zoning ordinances. This “approval” must take place before any construction permits can be issued by the Township. Therefore, without a Zoning Officer’s approval, you are prevented from making any improvements you would like to make on your own property.

Ordinarily this is not an issue. However, when dealing with “gray areas” of local ordinances, Zoning Officers tend to deny an application simply because the ordinance is vague or uncertain. Further, when a local ordinance is unclear on a point, a Zoning Officer may establish their own policy in an arbitrary and subjective manner.

For instance, if you want to construct a

Robert C. Shea Esq.

deck on your property and the local ordinance does not properly defi ne exact parameters, the Zoning Officer might choose to apply a rule that makes it impractical to construct a deck in a reasonable manner. In such a situation, you would be forced to seek approval from the local Zoning Board, which is a much lengthier and labor-intensive process.

However, if a Zoning Officer denies your application in such a manner, N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70 allows you to challenge said determination within (20) days of the decision. This challenge then forces your Zoning Board to review the Zoning Officer’s decision and determine whether the administrative officer has improperly denied your application. In other words, if a Zoning Board rules in your favor, the Zoning Officer must abide by the Board’s interpretation, and you receive an approval for said permit. If you, or a loved one, have currently been denied a permit by your Township, the Law Office of R. C. Shea & Associates can provide the legal knowledge and experience required to appeal such a decision, and seek the outcome that allows you to construct what you want on your own property. Call us today, (732) 505-1212.

For Sale

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Yard Sale

Yard Sale Saturday June 24, 9

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Items For Sale

Pond and Waterfall Cascading Over Rocks - Great for yard. Pond size 7x11, 20 inches deep. 732-255-4619. (28)

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)

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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)

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Receptionist Part-time, Weekends Magnolia Gardens - Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill part-time and 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. (31)

Certified Aides Full time, Per Diem, Weekends Magnolia GardensFamily 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 732-5576500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (31)

Dietary Aides Full Time, Part Time, Weekends, Magnolia GardensFamily owned and operated Assisted living community looking for Dietary Aides. 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. (31)

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1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:

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

Part-Time Custodian For 55+ Community - Experience as a custodian or in a similar role is preferred. Familiar with basic handyman practices. Attention to detail and conscientiousness. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and follow written work orders as directed. Apply in confidence to 732-506-6616. (29)

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

Calculate Price As Follows:

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

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

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4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

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)

General Contractor Seeking Male/ Female Assistant - With DL and knowledge of general home improvements preferred but not required. Pay based on experience. Call Clark 732-850-5060. (28)

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Father, Son Share Passion For Firefighting

TOMS RIVER – To continue the next generation of volunteer firefighters in Toms River Fire District No.1, Andrew Goresh passed down his love of the fire service to his son, Daniel Goresh.

As a child, Daniel Goresh, 35, was fascinated with the fire service due to his dad’s involvement at East Dover Fire Company No. 4, one of four stations in Toms River.

“Even though I was young, any time I could go down to the fire house and help, I would,” said Dan.

When he was old enough to start the junior firefighter program at 16, Dan joined and has been involved in the volunteer fire service ever since.

Meanwhile, his dad, Andrew “Andy” Goresh, 68, had no prior experience or family members in the fire service, but he decided to give it a try in 1987. At the time, he was playing organized softball and his wife, Sharon, thought it was taking up too much of his spare time. Andy read a newspaper article that day about how badly volunteers were needed at local fire companies.

“I showed the article to her and said, ‘What about me doing this?’ and she said, ‘Why not? Anything would be better than all the time you spend with softball.’”

“If only she knew how much time volunteering would take,” said Andy.

Creating Lifelong Memories

Since joining East Dover, Andy’s experienced an incredible journey. Starting out on the executive side, he served as vice president and president of the fire company. Then he moved to the firematic side, serving as second lieutenant and rising through the ranks to chief in 2008 and again in 2019.

Currently, Andy serves as a one of the safety officers and now takes orders from Dan, who is captain.

“In a normal father-son relationship, the son is usually taking orders from the father,” said Dan, but despite the role-reversal, they cherish the experience of volunteering

together.

“My dad died when I was 9 years old, so I did not get to do much with him,” said Andy. “Doing anything with Dan is just a dream come true for me.”

A memory that sticks out to Andy is when Dan was a lieutenant and responded to a structure fire. He was first on the scene and called command. While at work, Andy could only listen to Dan for a while on the radio, and when a senior officer arrived, he still let Dan run the job.

“Afterwards, so many people from both our company and other town companies came up to me and complimented Dan on his composure and the way he ran the job,” said Andy.

In Dan’s 15 years in the fire service, he has served as driver operator and lieutenant. In addition to be being captain, Dan is an instructor with Toms River Fire Training Center, but his love of firefighting doesn’t stop there. Dan received a Dual Bachelor of Science in fire science at the University of New Haven in Connecticut. He concentrated in fire administration and fire investigation with a minor in criminal justice.

“I credit being a member of East Dover, along with my father and mentors, for guiding me to achieve this milestone,” said Dan, who currently works as the captain of emergency services at Rutgers University. “Knowing I could take my knowledge, skills and abilities, and put them towards being paid and making a career out of something I loved to do made it an easy decision.”

Andy could tell that firefighting was a career in the making for Dan.

“I have been able to see him grow so much, both as a person and a firefighter,” said Andy. “When I see him teach new members and spend time with them explaining concepts and tactics, it just amazes me his ability to get across complex material so easily.”

Similar to his son, Andy has seen many (Firefighting - See Page 24)

Firefighting: Continued From Page 22

junior fi refighters start at East Dover and become career fi refighters.

“I am proud of all of them that have gone onto great careers and hope to think I may have helped them in some small way to get where they are,” said Andy. “If you are looking to be a career fi refighter, the volunteer fi re company is the place to start.”

Training And Gear

Toms River Fire District No. 1 provides all its volunteers with top-tier training and gear.

“We are very fortunate in Toms River Township. Our Fire Commissioners provide our members with the best personal protective equipment, and we have a Fire Academy that is very highly regarded in the state of New Jersey,” said Andy.

In addition to regular trainings at East Dover’s station, volunteers take classes at Toms River Fire Academy and Ocean County Fire Academy at no charge. The equipment they use is continually evalu-

ated to ensure volunteer fi refighters are using tools that are both cost-effective and fi refighter friendly.

“The education you can pursue is only limited by the time you care to invest in your future,” said Andy.

He has worked in customer service most of his life, and says the volunteer fi re service is a large cross section of people from all levels of education and economic status.

“Nothing compares to the range of talent like a volunteer fi re company,” said Andy. “To utilize all these people and their separate abilities that they bring to the table is probably the most satisfying skill I have learned over the years. Like a great conductor that brings together many instruments to create a beautiful symphony, it is what anyone would hope to be able to achieve.”

If any community members are interested in fi refighting, Andy and Dan encourage them to give it a try.

“If you are looking to be a part of something bigger than yourself there is no better place,” said Dan.

To learn more about volunteering in Toms River Fire District No. 1 or sign up, visit TRfire.org

Photo courtesy Toms River Fire District Sometimes, both father and son respond to calls together.

PHoto oF tHe weeK

The Jersey Shore is known for its amazing views. Here’s one captured by local resident Marilyn Casson. Here we are at Bayside Park at sunset overlooking the Barnegat Bay. Stunning! Want to share your photos with the world? Does a prize sound good? Sure it does! Email your Jersey Shore pix to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may hear from us!

Cruisin’ Downtown

TOMS RIVER – Join The Downtown Toms River Business Improvement District and The Vintage Automobile Club of Ocean County for Cruisin’ Downtown sponsored by Celebrity Ford..

Enjoy a street lined with classic cars, live entertainment and a DJ. Downtown

restaurants and businesses will be open. Head downtown for a fun family friendly event. Parking is free after 5 p.m. in downtown.

Cruisin’ Downtown will be from 6 to 9 p.m. on the following dates: July 12; August 9.

TRFOD Night AT BlueClaws

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Field of Dreams Night at BlueClaws Stadium will be August 31 at 7:05 p.m. Tickets:

$5; or $20 with T-shirt. More information at rwjbhfieldofdreams.com/event/ trfod-night.

Blood Drive

TOMS RIVER – The Christ Episcopal Church is hosting a Blood Driver on July 6 from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. Appointments appreciated but not required.

Silvio M. Silvi Neil D. Honschke Ralph F. Fedele

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

F & G AMES S UDOKU

15 Order of magnitude?

35 Drunkenness

37 Cut off

38 Backs

39 Herb used in some Indigenous smudging rituals

40 Life styles? 41 Personal matter? 42 Parking space 44 Fortified, with “up” 46 Cool amount? 49 Sierra __

“Self-Portrait as a __ Player”

3 Just after 4 Mil. title

5 Troublemaker 6 Prize

7 LED component

8 Hilfiger rival

9 Pen name of journalist Elizabeth Cochrane Seaman

10 Sort

11 Element of some meditation exercises

12 Admired with quiet reverence, with “of”

13 Goes back out

27 Kids on a farm

28 Plant that sparked the Victorian craze “pteridomania”

29 Indoor rower, for short

30 “Smallville” role for Durance

31 “You okay there?”

32 Cone source

33 Pub trayful

36 Classic car

37 Coastal formations?

39 Appear to be

41 Cultivated

42 Refinery waste

Down 1 Start of a library conversation, maybe 2 Gentileschi’s

14 Crossword editor Harper in Hallmark’s “Crossword Mysteries” series 21 __ nous 23 Hashtag that went viral during a pop star’s legal battle 25 Ewe said it 26 Elevate

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

43 Cuban bar tender 45 Little dipper?

46 Nutmeg spice

47 Supermodel with a cosmetics line for women of color

48 W. Coast force

50 “When will u b here?”

52 Hoops stat

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of june 24 - june 30

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Natural talent can earn you praise but you may find yourself competing with people who have taken the time to practice until perfect. Sometimes the only way to improve is to fail and accept instruction or helpful criticism.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Your adaptability in the face of chaos can make you invaluable to friends. Plans may need to remain fluid and you should remain flexible if the group becomes unable to come to a consensus.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : It isn’t only what you say but also how you say it. Avoid making snap answers and think things over before you speak. Take the time to understand the impact your words might have and tailor your delivery.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Ideas may keep bubbling up even if you don’t have the time or resources to see them through. Note ideas to save for more productive times. One idea may fit perfectly with others to create a breakthrough moment.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): It may be time to let your loving and affectionate feelings roam free. Cheesy love songs on your playlist can make more sense if you are not too afraid to share. Hearts can be bigger than you think.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A charismatic smile and articulate speeches are not enough. People may enjoy the glamour but also expect results. Demonstrate to higher-ups that you are as good or even better than your reputation.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Accolades are nice, but they may not be a qualification

for the task at hand. You might find yourself competing in a whole new arena. Getting paid can require a different skill set than you usually use; let your abilities and talents shine.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : It can be up to you to bring your imagination to life. Whether it is an invitation, a new book or a few kind words, it cannot be real until you release it into the world. Unleash your creative talents and see what happens.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) : Breaking the sound barrier can disrupt the peace. It may be better to remain quiet about your intentions for now. There might be a chance to communicate with less friction in the near future.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): No matter how important your role might be, there is always a chance of events beyond your control popping up. Life will continue to go on regardless of whether your desk is clear or not. You can prevail over unexpected changes or upsets.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) : You may have been waiting for a signal to tell you when it is time to jump. Take the time to breathe if loved ones disrupt your plans. Keep sending out feelers until you have a clear understanding of how you should proceed.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Getting names wrong, pronouncing words incorrectly or dropping items at the worst possible time can be easily overlooked or forgiven. Don’t agonize over mistakes you made; your tribe will still love you even if you make an error.

THIS SUPER-SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE DELIVERS BIG ON SWEET, JUICY AND SPICY FLAVORS

By America’s Test Kitchen

AHI - CHILE TOSTADAS

(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.