2023-07-08 - The Jackson Times

Couple To Celebrate 70th Anniversary

very close to them. I spend a lot of time with them and my cousins are like my brothers and sisters, aunts are like moms and uncles are like dads.”

“It wasn’t uncommon for me to spend my entire summer with my cousins at their house. They had a home in upstate New York and so we would go to upstate New York. We’d spend a weekend or a week there,” Calaff said.

“We are very family oriented and I’ve been a big part of their life. I am one of four. My uncle actually gave me a way at my wedding because my dad passed away two months before the wedding,” she added.

Superintendent Search Underway

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – When

it comes to love stories, the one shared by Paul and Dolores Urcinole is a long one. The township couple will be celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary later this month. The Portobello Road couple will be blessed on July 16 during a noon mass at

No Tax Increase In Plumsted

St. Veronica’s Church in Howell.

“This is quite rare as you can imagine in today’s world. They are an inspiration for the constitution of marriage which seems some have lost faith in,” their niece Nancy Calaff told The Jackson Times She considers herself “almost like a daughter. I’ve spent my entire life

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED - Township officials unanimously approved the adoption of their 2023 municipal spending plan during their latest Committee meeting.

The budget features the same tax rate going forward in 2024. Committeeman Leonard Grilletto, who chaired the committee that went over the budget, said, “The total budget is $6,392,419 - very close to what we had in 2022.”

Paul is 95 years old and a Marine veteran and he described Dolores who is 91, as his rock. Calaff said, “they met when they were in high school. They grew up in West New York (New Jersey) and they have been together ever since. They moved to Jackson because there are a lot of retirement communities down there.”

“They are spending their golden years in

“There is a zero increase in the municipal tax rate which is .0316 per ($100 of assessed valuation). The average home in the township is valued at $281,177. Our ratable base went up, so the total tax bill based on the average home would be $8,028.59.” The budget is available on the township website at Plumsted.org.

“We were able to do a lot while keeping the tax rate

(Tax - See Page 4)

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED – The search is on for a new superintendent of schools in the township. Current Superintendent Michelle Halperin-Krain’s last day on the job is July 21.

Halperin-Krain joined the district in 2016 as Director of Literacy. She has served as superintendent for the last three years and will retire this month after 27 years in public education.

School Board President Susan Potter told The Jackson Times that “the superintendent search is underway. We are pleased to have received many

Council’s New Leader Criticized

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – A meeting of about 15 minutes long was enough time for new leadership to step up and for a few political barbs to be tossed between officials and a resident.

New Council President Steve Chisholm took charge of the panel during the latest meeting. He re-

places Martin Flemming. Flemming remains a member of the council but said he would be moving from the township and resigning from the council at some point in the future. The entire governing body is Republican, but there is a divide. He ran against Mayor Michael (Council - See Page 13)

Various scenes from the past of Paul and Dolores Urcinole of Jackson show the inseparable couple who will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on July 16 with a blessing during a noon mass at St. Veronica’s Church in Howell.

Photos courtesy Nancy Calaff

Screenshot by Bob Vosseller

Plumsted Superintendent Michelle Halperin-Krain will retire after 27 years as an educator, seven with the school district and three as superintendent, on July 21.

(Couple - See Page 5) (Superintendent - See Page 5)

Plumsted Township Deputy Mayor Herb Marinari, Attorney Jean Cipriani, Mayor Robert Bowen and Plumsted Township Committeeman Leonard Grilletto (who is holding up a copy of this year’s municipal budget overview) and Committeeman Dominick Cuozzo discussing this year’s budget.

stable,” Committeeman Dominick Cuozzo said. Mayor Robert Bowen had told The Jackson Times prior to the budget adoption that “our community recently approved a fire district referendum, 4 to 1, to increase the fire district tax by $121 for the average homeowner to provide essential funding our Plumsted EMS service. The committee will do its best to keep any tax increase

at a minimum despite inflationary pressures and our continued investments in infrastructure.”

Lennar Issues

Residents of the Lennar development were pleased to hear some progress concerning an issue that has been the subject of controversy for months at Committee meetings. Homeowners there can’t apply for certain senior programs such as ANCHOR and Senior Freeze, due to an agreement between the township and Len-

nar. This agreement allows Lennar to make payments to the town instead of paying taxes as the development grows.

Committeeman Grilletto announced, “we have some proposals that may alleviate some of their problems. Some from our financial advisor. We will invite in the next 60 days our professionals to come with people from Lennar and see if we can come up with a plan that we can work out that by December can give some relief to the people of Lennar and at the same

time would enable our surplus to help reduce taxes to everybody on the municipal level.”

Road Projects

The mayor also noted an application to the Department of Transportation for grant funds “which basically ranked every single one of our 110 municipal roads by quality going to the bottom and working the way up. Jenson Court and Maria Drive were on that list toward the bottom as our engineer felt they were good candidates for the criteria of the DOT grant program.”

Estimates are also being worked on for repairs to Hodgkins Drive and several other roads. “We are working on the list. We realize a lot of our roads are about the same age and are about to fail all at the same time but we are trying to do each year what our budget will allow us,” Mayor Bowen added.

The mayor explained a resolution the Committee is passing that supports having an Ocean County representative to serve on the NJ Board of Public Utilities. “We do speak on the rate increases and other things that effect the public however this would actually give us as a recommendation from Ocean County, our own representative on the BPU.”

OCC Course Opens The Door To Alternate Route To Teaching

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has partnered with Brookdale Community College to provide aspiring teachers with a pathway to K-12 teacher certification, offered through OCC’s Workforce and Professional Education department. Classes begin on July 14 and registration is open now.

Individuals with a bachelor’s degree or higher can take advantage of New Jersey’s Alternate Route to Teaching program to become a licensed teacher without having to complete traditional teacher training. OCC’s “Introduction to Teaching” course is the first step. The course is designed to provide candidates with the skills and strategies needed to become effective teachers, and delivers an overview of all aspects of teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management, child development, school law and ethics, assessments and more. The program is regulated and approved by the New Jersey Department of Education.

The course is composed of 30 hours of classroom instruction and 20 hours of clinical work, which includes classroom observations, substitute teaching, tutoring, and working in an after-school program. Upon completion, candidates receive a Verification of Program Completion and become eligible to move on to the next stage of the licensing process. The upcoming session will meet as follows:

July 14: 5 to 8 p.m.

July 15: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 16: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 21: 5 to 8 p.m.

July 22: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 23: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information and to register for the course, visit go.ocean.edu/teach or contact OCC’s Workforce & Professional Development office at 732-255-0409.

Superintendent: Continued From Page 1 applications for consideration.”

“An Ad-Hoc Committee will be formed whose main focus will be to explore and understand the ramifications of a feasibility study as well as district cost,” Potter added. During a May 10 Board of Education meeting Vice Board President Justin Burnett stated that the Plumsted Township Education Association (PTEA) and Plumsted Township Administrators Association (PTAA) would not be directly involved with the Ad Hoc Committee. They have, however, contributed to the process.

Burnett said during last month’s Board meeting, “we are looking for our new superintendent and that has been quite the effort right now. Between the personnel team we have reviewed 35 resumes. We are scheduling interviews which is adding five to seven more hours a week.”

“A big shout out to the personnel committee, the PTA and the PTES because they have been involved and it is very valuable insight when we send them redacted information because we have to keep confidentiality,” he added.

Couple:

Continued From Page 1

Jackson. They got married in Saint Joseph’s Church in West New York. They have one son, Paul Jr. and they have one granddaughter, Marisa who is 24,” Calaff said.

Paul entered the service at age 19 in 1948 and served in the Korean War from 1948 – 1952. “I know he worked on planes. We have pictures of him standing on the wing of a plane. I don’t think

“They gave us some really good questions to ask and we are going through the process. We are going to find someone to fill these very big shoes,” he said.

Later in the meeting he and the rest of the Board received some criticism by two district educators about not including the community in the search as well as the manner in which education agencies were allowed to be involved.

Potter told The Jackson Times, prior to the June meeting, “it is the sole responsibility of the Board of Education to hire a superintendent. Confidentiality is the utmost of importance to the Board of Education. However, we are receiving input from leaders of the administrative staff. When we have further information, we will gladly share it.”

Burnett said after the meeting, “we were advised by our legal staff and reached out to the New Jersey School Board Association. We redact everything. We are including them as much as we can.”

High School’s Future

Recent Board meetings have included discus-

he flew the planes but I know he was definitely involved in working on planes, maintaining them,” Calaff said.

Her uncle Paul married his high school sweetheart in 1952 and they made a home in West New York. “He worked as a truck driver and he was also a carpenter.”

“He did carpentry work on the side. She was the traditional stay at home mom and then she had a job with an encyclopedia company,” Calaff added.

sions about the future of the New Egypt High School and the vacant Primary School which currently serves as the Board of Education administration office. Both buildings are located on Evergreen Road.

Potter said that “as of May 31, the total district enrollment is 1,107 students. The New Egypt High School NEHS population is 313 students.”

Township voters approved a December 1997 referendum under which $16.5 million (equivalent to $30.1 million in 2022) would be borrowed to build new school facilities, while the existing middle school would be converted for use as a high school. Later that month, the Commissioner of Education approved the withdrawal, as the feasibility study prepared showed no negative financial impact to either district and would not substantially impact the racial makeup of the students enrolled at Allentown High School which is part of Upper Freehold Regional School District in Monmouth County.

The school opened its doors in September 1999 and admitted 100 9th-graders who would graduate in spring 2003, ending a sending/

Calaff said “we joke that they have a more active social life than we do. He still drives. They go to Atlantic City.” Her aunt Dolores “is very involved with the Red Hat Society and they are involved with a lot of the activities of the community like bingo. Aunt Dolores did a veteran’s speech at the Senior Center for Memorial Day. She gives a speech every year because her husband is a veteran, he’s a Marine.”

“They are very involved. They are at

receiving relationship that had existed for more than 50 years. Recent meetings of the Board have suggested the possibility of closing the high school.

The school was the 151st-ranked public high school in New Jersey out of 339 schools statewide in New Jersey Monthly Magazine’s September 2014 cover story on New Jersey’s “Top Public High Schools,” using a new ranking methodology.

Resident Bernard Bahnam asked the Board about the issue. “Have you gotten anywhere with the whole sending students/receiving students.”

Board member Kelly Morgan said, “I’ve been doing a lot of online research as to educate us as to what it would involve. I am diligently working on it and am trying to move forward in understanding the pros and cons as to what it would mean for us if we ever have to go down that road.”

Upcoming meetings of the Board are July 12, August 16, September 13, October 11, November 15, and December 13. Executive sessions are held at 6 p.m. and regular meetings follow at 7 p.m.

Winding Ways and they moved there in 1996. For their age it is amazing. I think that is why they have such longevity because they are still together and they spent a huge course of time together. I think there is something to be said about that,” their niece said.

Calhaff added, “they got through a whole lot together, the whole Covid thing and more. They are still very cognitively sharp.”

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

Based on a lot of what I’ve written here, especially about school issues, it may be surprising to hear that there is some good news for Jackson coming from Trenton lately. But there is.

Last week, I mentioned the huge numbers of legislative bills flying around the State House these days. I explained that there’s normally a rush to get a lot of bills to the governor before the Legislature takes a summer break after passing the new state budget. I wrote that I would look through the many bills and report back if I found any that would provide meaningful, structural property tax relief in the near term.

I didn’t exactly find such a bill among the 159 scheduled for an Assembly vote as I write this (I expect there will be even more), but I did come across one I like so much that I testified in favor of it in early June. It would put in place a framework that I believe will help school districts like Jackson’s, and could lead to actual progress

Some Good News For Jackson

on property tax relief.

We all know that Jackson is having a population boom of kids attending nonpublic schools. The state requires that Jackson provide transportation to these students, or payments to their parents for transportation costs. The problem for Jackson property tax payers is that the state only pays for part of the costs, so all Jackson residents have to make up the difference. That difference becomes very stressful financially as the number of students needing transportation grows so quickly. To be clear here, the issue isn’t the nonpublic school students, it’s the unfunded state mandate. If the state mandates it, the state should pay for it, not property tax payers.

The bill I’m referring to would create a program in which nonpublic schools could organize among themselves to provide transportation to their students. These organizations, called consortia (the plural of consortium), would be funded by the public school districts whose residents would be transported by the consortia.

The payments for each student would be of the same amount that a public school has to pay parents for transportation if it’s not provided by the school. That amount, for

what’s called “aid in-lieu-of transportation,” is currently set at $1,022.

At the end of the school year, each consortium would refund to participating public school districts a part of the per-student payment they had made for any student who didn’t receive transportation for the entire school year. If any contributed money is left over, the consortium would have to refund it to participating school districts in proportion to their contributions.

Having this structure in place would create opportunities. Jackson could leave the planning and operation of nonpublic student transportation to the schools those students attend. Also, the busing of these students could become more efficient because Jackson won’t have to transport students to several different schools. Perhaps this will lead to those potential refunds.

If this sounds familiar, you may be a regular reader of my columns. It’s strikingly similar to the bill I introduced that would create a pilot program structured much the same way. My bill would allow Jackson, along with Lakewood, Toms River Regional, Brick, Manchester and Howell, to benefit from such a consortium of area nonpublic schools. The similarities extend to requirements for a state oversight committee and independent audits.

While I support the other bill and look for-

ward to voting for it, I must note that it’s a step forward, but unfortunately not a full solution. A big difference between that bill and mine is that mine requires the state to finally step up and pay the full costs of its own transportation requirements. This would be a sure-fire benefit to Jackson property tax payers.

With so many bills scheduled for a vote, most legislators choose not to speak before the vote on any but the most important bills such as the state budget and others that are highly controversial. I plan to speak on this one, because it’s of great importance to Jackson that it move forward.

I also want to make a public statement to my colleagues about the need for the state to pay for its transportation mandate, and my commitment to work with anyone to advance that goal. I plan to introduce legislation to add state funding to the statewide consortium bill, and will work to get support for it. Despite its shortcomings, it’s great news that the statewide bill will get a bipartisan vote, putting us on the road to real school transportation reform.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 13 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex) and on Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.

Bill Would Reduce Cost Of Prescriptions

Capitol Comments

Senator Robert Menendez

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a senior member on the U.S. Senate Finance Committee which has jurisdiction over national health care policy, and Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) introduced the Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act – vitally important bipartisan legislation to tackle one of the biggest drivers of the high cost of prescription drugs, particularly for senior adults on Medicare. This builds on Sen. Menendez’s other legislative efforts to lower the cost of prescription drugs for patients at the pharmacy counter.

The Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act would ensure that patients can finally benefit from lower-cost products instead of being forced to pay for higher-priced drugs solely because of pricing gimmicks used by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), the drug pricing middlemen. This legislation

would clearly establish pricing “tiers” to separate lower-cost generic drugs and biosimilar products from name-brand drugs so that patients pay less out of pocket for truly lower-priced drugs, therefore incentivizing prices to drop for patients.

“I’m proud to be working with Sen. Lankford on this bipartisan solution, which takes on PBM discriminatory formulary practices that unfairly drive up the costs of prescription drugs for seniors on Medicare Part D,” said Menendez. “I am committed to lower costs for my constituents and Americans all across the country at the pharmacy counter, and this legislation is another step towards reforming PBMs so they cannot continue gaming the system on the backs of patients.”

The Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act requires: Medicare Part D to cover a generic or biosimilar if it costs less than its namebrand counterpart.

Generic drugs or biosimilars to be placed on a generic/biosimilar formulary pricing tier and name-brand drugs

to be placed on a brand tier, with the generic tier having a lower insurance cost-sharing requirement for patients than the name-brand tier. A new tier for specialty generics or biosimilars that would also have a lower insurance cost-sharing requirement for patients.

Sen. Menendez has long advocated for creating a more affordable health care system for every New Jerseyan and Americans across the country. Last year, he helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped the price of insulin at $35 a month for seniors on Medicare, and he authored aprovision that also capped Medicare beneficiaries’ out-of-pocket costs at $2,000 a year.

Earlier this month, Sen. Menendez, alongside Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Okla.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), led the introduction of the Patients Before Middlemen (PBM) Act to delink the compensation of PBMs from drug price and utilization in order to better align incentives that will help lower prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. At a recent Sen -

ate Finance Committee hearing, the Senator pressed the witnesses about the impacts vertical integration of PBMs, pricing transparency, and insurer consolidation have on health care consumers. In March, Sen. Menendez questioned witnesses during a Senate Finance Committee about the impact PBMs have on the prescription drug supply chain and how their warped incentive structure drives up prices for patients and consumers. The Senator emphasized how PBMs prefer prescription drugs with a higher list price versus those with a lower list price because they can obtain larger rebates. PBMs do this even though the patient would pay significantly less if they selected the drug with the lower list price.

This April, Sens. Wyden and Crapo released a legislative framework to address PBMs and issues with the prescription drug supply chain. This framework aims to modernize and enhance federal prescription drug programs, with the goal of reducing drug costs for patients and taxpayers. Sen. Menendez will work to include the PBM Act and the Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act in any drug pricing package that the Senate considers.

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 PJ! He came into the rescue with his siblings Mellow, Gidget and Oliver. He’s seriously so cute and friendly. He is very playful and his whole soft fuzzy body vibrates when he purrs! He loves playing with toys and running around with his siblings. He is up to date on age appropriate

Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

medical and will be ready for his forever home in a few weeks.

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 Petfi nder.com.

Back Deck Forestry

JACKSON – We start out the evening with “Fish and Whistle” a popular local bluegrass band. Then there’s a break for a short presentation by one of our FREC naturalist on a forestry topic. Finally, we round out the evening with light refreshments and another set from the band.

Come meet out at the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard,

Jackson, on July 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event will be outdoors on our deck except in inclement weather, when it will be moved inside to our display room. Limited to 40 toe-tapping persons.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 40 attendees. Registration is free. Register at eventbrite.com/o/forest-resource-education-center-31858983647?.

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!

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City Celebrates 5th Anniversary

ATLANTIC CITY – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City celebrated its Fifth Anniversary today as part of “Hard Rock Day” in Atlantic City. Hard Rock used the celebration to reinforce its ongoing commitment to its guests, team members and the Greater Atlantic City community. Community leaders, elected officials and Hard Rock executives came together to commemorate the Fifth Anniversary of the grand opening of the casino resort.

“From the outset, the power of the Hard Rock brand combined with the hard work of our 3,600 team members propelled Hard Rock Atlantic City to become the most successful casino on Atlantic City’s famed Boardwalk,” said George Goldhoff, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. “Together with our owners, the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and our partners, Jack Morris and Joe Jingoli and Michael Jingoli, we are celebrating our hugely successful fi rst five years by saying ‘thank you’ to our guests, our team members and the Greater Atlantic City community.”

A $500 million renovation prior to the grand opening was the fi rst of many capital investments in the casino resort, which sits on 17 acres along the Boardwalk at Tennessee Avenue and offers more than 2,000 guestrooms and suites. Goldhoff said Hard Rock suites were recently enhanced as part of a $45 million capital improvement program, which also included an expansion of the number of slot machines to more than 2,300, as well as improvements to its 150,000 square feet of meetings space, plus additional investments in its food and

Hard Rock Atlantic City is also spending another $30 million to attract top entertainment as part of this summer’s Fifth Anniversary Celebration, in order to cement its position as the leading entertainment venue in Atlantic City. Hard Rock’s summer entertainment lineup includes Kevin Hart, Keith Urban, Dan + Shay, Santana, Bill Burr, Sting, Machine Gun Kelly and many more top names coming to Hard Rock Live, a 5,500-seat performance hall. In August, Hard Rock is bringing the hit musical, Grease, for a limited time, to Sound Waves. Hard Rock Atlantic City is also investing heavily in Fifth Anniversary casino promotions, which are open to all casino guests. A $25,000 Sweepstakes and daily BMW 5 Series giveaway run from June 28 through July 2, when a $500,000 Summer Sweepstakes kicks off and continues through the months of July and August. In addition, Hard Rock is partnering with North Beach to present a world-class fi reworks display by Grucci on June 30.

In addition to its capital and entertainment investments, over the course of its fi rst five years, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City has donated a total of more than $1 million to dozens of community organizations in Greater Atlantic City. As part of the Fifth Anniversary Celebration, the casino resort today announced contributions totaling another $100,000 donated to five community organizations.

“While music is a part of Hard Rock’s DNA, philanthropy is a part of our soul,”

(Hard Rock- See Page 10)

Photo courtesy Hard Rock Hotel & Casino beverage facilities.

$6,450

Hard Rock: Continued From Page 9

said President Goldhoff. “Since opening in 2018, Hard Rock Atlantic City has made intentional efforts to keep our charitable giving local, ensuring the residents of Atlantic City are our number one beneficiary. Today, we are thrilled to announce yet another effort that will have an impact on our community. We will continue our commitment to addressing food insecurity by donating $100,000. That’s $20,000 to

each of five deserving charities who provide resources to some the most vulnerable and underserved members of our local community.”

Each of the five organizations received a check for $20,000 and included the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, Atlantic City Leaders in Training (LIT), Hope Exists Foundation, Jewish Family Services (JFS), and Veterans Haven South. For more information on Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.

St Elisabeth’s Chapel By The Sea Gift Auction Is Back

TOMS RIVER – St Elisabeth’s Chapel’s Gift Auction will be held on July 25 located at The Toms River Elks Club, 600 Washington Street, Toms River. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; drawings start

at 7:30 p.m.

Only advance ticket purchase; cost is $15. limit 200 people. Call 732-831-4483 or 732-830-1425 for tickets. No one under 18 will be admitted.

Learn To Play ‘Dungeons & Dragons’ At Library

TOMS RIVER – Ever wanted to learn to play “Dungeons & Dragons,” but didn’t know how to start? As part of our Adult Summer Reading Program theme, “All Together Now,” the Ocean County Library will present a “Dungeons & Dragons” crash course at six branches:

• Long Beach Island Branch, 217 South Central Avenue, Surf City, 609-494-2480, 6:30 p.m. July 12

• Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive, 732657-7600, 6:30 p.m. July 19

• Plumsted Branch,119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt, 609-758-7888, 6:30 p.m. July 24

• Lacey Branch,10 East Lacey Road, 609-693-

8566, 6:30 p.m. August 7

• Stafford Branch,129 N. Main Street, Manahawkin, 609-597-3381, 6:30 p.m. August 23

• Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, 732-349-6200, 6:30 p.m. August 28

The presentation will cover basics of the Fifth Edition. Learn how to fill out a character sheet, what each part means, and how to run a campaign as a Dungeon Master. This 90-minute program will help develop your gaming skills and get you started on a pastime full of fun and adventure.

Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events for this free program. For more information, visit or call any participating branch, or call 732-349-6200.

9th Annual Beef & Beer

JACKSON – The 9th Annual Beef & Beer will be on September 30t from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Co. #1 - Station 55.

Presale Tickets are $50, and include a t-shirt. Tickets the day of the event are $60. Reach out to any Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Co. #1 - Station 55 member to get tickets!

Nightingale Catering is back! They will be provided unlimited Beef. Unlimited Craft Beer will be provided by Icarus Brewing. Unlimited domestic beer. Hot Wing Challenge. Gift Auction. Mega 50/50 drawing. Come to an amazing event you won’t want to miss and support your volunteer firefighters.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

The Orca a/k/a Killer Whale

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

As one of the most powerful predators in the world, they are the largest dolphin. Having distinct black-and-white coloring, these animals weigh up to 11 tons with a length of up to 32 feet. Lifespan can be up to 90 years. These smart and social creatures communicate underwater using echolocation. Disruption to the ocean’s natural existence could influence communications and negatively alter their lives.

Hunting/Diet: Orcas usually frequent the cold, coastal waters, but are no strangers to the regions at the Equator. Their size and efficient hunting skills allow them access to a diverse diet of fish, seals, penguins, squid, and whales, to name a few. Their hunting is skillful.

Reproduction: With a 17-month pregnancy, the mother gives birth anywhere from three to 10 years. The young nurse for up to two years, then may leave the pod to make their own way. In some pods the juvenile will live with the family indefi nitely.

Captivity: SeaWorld became famous for its entertainment using orca. Many came from the wild, while other were bred at SeaWorld. So far, SeaWorld is responsible for the deaths of 174 orcas. As of March 10, 2023, there are still 62 orcas in captivity at

SeaWorld with the oldest, Ulises, who was captured on November 7, 1980. He was 3 years old. As of 2022, he is the oldest (46 years) male orca in captivity.

Orcas who died for the sake of ‘entertainment’ – a partial listing: Chappy, Jumbo, Zero, King, Caren, Freyja, Maggie, Oscar, Sarah, Shamu, Kandu, Kilroy, Orky, Nootka, Winston, Kona, Frankie, Canuck, Kandu, Shawn, Bjossa, Baby Shamu, Splash, Sumar, Ramu, Kandu, Sandy, Kalina, Kenau, Gudrun, Taima, Nyar, Winnie, Kahan, Kotar, Haida, Samoa, Katerina, Taku, Halyn, Nakai, Amaya, Tilikum, Kyara, Nakai, Skyla, Belen, Hoi Wai, Hyak, Chimo, Bingo, Juliet, Kt/Taku, Junior, Kandu V, Kanduke, Kasatka, Katy, Kayla, Keiko, Kim (Oum), Kim II, Kiska, Kohana, Kyara, Moby Doll, Namu, Neocia, Nepo, Samoa. Slana, Splash, Spooky, Taku, Unna, Vigga, Skana, Wanda, Winston, Yaka. There were multiple stillborn, days-old, euthanized, miscarriages, who were identified as ‘No Name.’ I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.

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.

Craft And Vendor Fair

JACKSON – Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Co. #1 Station 55 is looking for crafters and new merchandise vendors for the 14th Annual Craft and Vendor Fair on, Novem-

ber 5. This is an indoor event and 8ft tables are provided $50. Email sta55events@ gmail.com for more information with products you sell.

Jackson EMS Seeking Volunteers

JACKSON – Make a difference in your community! Jackson Township EMS is currently seeking volunteers. No experience needed. Must be 16 years or older. Free fi rst

aid training. Learn skills for life. Now hiring EMTs. Paid holidays. Healthcare benefits. Competitive pay. Flexible schedule. To apply, visit JTFAS.org.

Food Trucks & Fireworks

JACKSON – Township of Jackson is hosting Food Trucks & Fireworks on July 9 from 4 to 9 p.m. at Johnson Park, 200 Kierych Memorial Drive.

Live music by “Nine Deez Nite.” Enjoy food trucks, giveaways, NJ, and fi reworks at dusk. Free admission and free parking. For more information call 732-928-1260.

Firefi ghters Extinguish Major Blaze At Local UPS Facility

By Alyssa Riccardi

LAKEWOOD – Firefighters have extinguished a major fire that broke out at a UPS facility in Lakewood on June 28. According to police, the warehouse as well as six trailers at the UPS Customer Center caught on fire, possibly destroying hundreds of packages.

By around 8 p.m., Lakewood Police

Captain Gregory Staffordsmith confirmed that the fire was under control. However, Vassar Avenue was completely shut down due to the fire.

At this time, the fire is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office. Staffordsmith said that the cause and origin of the fire has not yet been determined.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

New Federal Rule Designed To Reduce Barriers To Healthcare

NEW JERSEY –Attorney General Matthew J. Plakin today led a multistate letter of support for a new rule aimed at expanding Medicaid and Affordable Care Act (ACA) eligibility to individuals receiving deferred action pursuant to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, which enables certain young people who arrived in the United States as children to avoid deportation and build lives in the country.

Established in 2012, DACA allows immigrants who came to the U.S. as children – commonly referred to as Dreamers – the opportunity to remain in the country if they meet certain criteria and renew their requests for deferred action every two years. Since its inception, DACA has protected from deportation and extended work authorization for approximately 825,000 individuals – including approximately 14,430 active DACA grantees in New Jersey.

The multi-state letter sent to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, and led by Attorney General Platkin, supports the proposed Biden Administration rule designed to ensure DACA recipients can obtain affordable health insurance, regardless of whether their employer provides coverage.

“Healthcare is a human right, regardless of your immigration status,” said Attorney General Platkin. “For the first time in 11 years, hundreds of thousands of ‘Dreamers’ across the nation could have access to the public healthcare they need and deserve. As we’ve said many times before, DACA recipients are our co-workers, friends, fellow students, and neighbors, and I am proud to support the Biden Administration’s efforts to protect their health and well-being. We will always fight to ensure that New Jersey remains a beacon of equal opportunity for all who wish to be part of America’s story.”

On April 13, HHS published a proposed rule that would expand access to healthcare coverage for DACA recipients – first and foremost, by amending the outdated definition of “lawfully present” for purposes of Medicaid and ACA coverage to include DACA recipients.

While DACA recipients may have access to employer-sponsored health insurance, they are ineligible for ACA, Medicaid, CHIP, and Marketplace coverage even though other, similarly situated immigrant groups qualify for some coverage options. The new rule

will correct this long-standing error and help Dreamers obtain a new lifeline of support.

The letter signed by 19 Attorneys General asserts that a substantial portion, 34 percent, of DACA recipients are uninsured, while others face significant gaps in coverage, high medical bills, and fear of seeking public services.

The letter also explains that the DACA population is aging and having children, further exacerbating these healthcare access and coverage issues. As of 2021, DACA recipients had more than 250,000 U.S.-born children, who depend on their parents for insurance coverage.

The new rule will mitigate these issues by expanding Medicaid and ACA eligibility to include qualified DACA recipients and allowing them to purchase affordable insurance coverage to cover themselves and their dependent children.

Access to health insurance improves public health, and this proposed expansion of healthcare coverage will benefit not just DACA recipients themselves but also the communities in which they live.

New Jersey has been a consistent and active supporter of DACA, particularly during the Trump Administration’s repeated, but ultimately failed, attempts to discontinue the policy.

The Trump Administration sought to end DACA in 2017 but was enjoined by several courts from doing so. Subsequently, Texas and seven other states filed a federal lawsuit in the Southern District of Texas arguing that DACA is illegal because its creation occurred without congressional action.

In May 2018, New Jersey intervened in the case, arguing that the Trump Administration was not adequately defending DACA. At the urging of New Jersey and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the Southern District of Texas declined to immediately end the policy but ultimately concluded that DACA was unlawful. The district judge stayed that injunction in significant part while the appeal in this case proceeded.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit upheld the Southern District of Texas’ ruling but sent the case back for further review and kept DACA in place for current recipients.

To view a timeline of litigation in this case, visit: maldef.org/2021/10/ texas-v-united-states-a-timeline-ofthe-fight-to-protect-daca.

Council

: Continued From Page 1

Reina last fall.

Council members Jennifer Kuhn and Scott Sargent voted against Flemming’s nominations for Chisholm to take over as council president and Councilman Nino Borrelli to become council vice president.

They said they were blindsided when Flemming made his announcement to step down from his leadership position.

Resident Sheldon Hofstein noted that during the last two meetings no new ordinances were introduced. “Has the majority of council decided that all the important issues have been solved?

Council President Chisholm do you have an agenda now that you are leading the council for improving the lives of Jackson residents?”

“This is not a campaign and my agenda is the people’s agenda. If you have a resolution or ordinance you would like to see introduced, I would love to speak to you afterwards,” Chisholm replied.

“That is passing the buck. You aren’t answering the question,” Hofstein responded.

Chisholm replied, “I thought I answered it.” Hofstein then asked Flemming when he planned to leave office.

Flemming said he would not be serving that long but could not give a time frame.

“If you are going to be leaving the council I think it is inappropriate for you to be making decisions that affect 58,000 residents and you should consider leaving sooner than later. When you resign I am sure everyone here will thank you for your service. Are you presently a resident of Jackson?” Hofstein asked.

He did say he and members of his family were living in the home that he had lived in and owned for 45 years and were currently leasing. He said he also owns other properties in Jackson.

Hofstein expressed that when the Council does get around to choosing a replacement he hoped it would be someone new “with new ideas and would move Jackson forward and not a former councilmember and a retread.”

Flemming told The Jackson Times a bit about his background in the community. “I became a firefighter in 1976 and still respond today. I was elected a Fire Commissioner in 1998, a position I held for 21 years. I was also the first chairman of the Joint Board of Fire Commissioners.”

“I was also a Board member of Jackson Little League for 15 years and Jackson First Aid for five years. I have been here (in Jackson) since March 1963, got married and raised my family here. All of my sons are active in the Volunteer Fire Company,” he added.

Flemming added, “counting three fire chiefs and three commissioners among them, my grandfather bought the Hardware Store in 1964 and I have worked there all my life.”

Food trucks and fireworks

Members of the council promoted the July 9 Food Truck and Fireworks event at John F. Johnson Junior Memorial Park, 260 Kierych Memorial Drive. The event kicks off at 4 p.m. with live music, a DJ and giveaways. Fireworks will be shot off at dusk. “There is free admission and parking,” Borrelli said.

For more information call the Jackson Recreation Department at 732-928-1200, ext. 1255.

Jackson School District Kindergarten Registration

JACKSON – Kindergarten registration in the Jackson School District has begun and the district is asking parents of children who will be entering kindergarten next year to make an appointment as soon as possible.

“It is incredibly important that parents begin now to complete our online regis-

tration process and call for their appointment so we can plan ahead for the next school year,’’ said district Coordinator of Communications Allison Erwin. “If you are a parent of a kindergarten student, we ask that you make every effort to register your child as soon as possible.’’ Kindergarten registration information

can be found on the district website at jacksonsd.org/kindergarten . There is an online form, and also supplemental forms that must be filled out prior to receiving an appointment. The forms are available for download and can also be picked up at any district elementary school.

Sound News

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

Hearing Aids And Water

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

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

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

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

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

Try a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifier This small appliance not only dries and sanitizes your devices as you sleep but can also double as their regular storage container. Hearing aids should be dried every night. Many rechargeable hearing aids incorporate a dehumidifier built into the charging unit.

Keep a Hat on Hand You never know when an unexpected rain shower might crash your outdoor fun. Having a spare hat can help keep the rain off you as well as your hearing aids.

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

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

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer all of your hearing care questions. They can be reached at 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!

Wildlife Habitat Evening

JACKSON – Forests seem so silent when we enter them but animals are here! They are hiding or waiting until we leave. Learn how to see and identify the signs of numerous mammals and reptiles. Learn more about all the animals that call the forest their home.

Come meet out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson, on July 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Pre-registration only, accepted on fi rst-come basis. Accepting 20 people per hike. Registration is free. All programs are held outdoors so dress for weather.

Westlake Veterans Club Annual Golf Outing

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

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

5 Ice Cube Recipes To Help You Lose Weight

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Drinking water instead of soda can be the fastest, simplest way to lose weight and improve health. Why?

We all need fresh water to dilute poisons in our body and filter toxins through our kidneys. When you become dehydrated with sugar-laden drinks, this filtration function gets harder. Blood sugar increases. Remember, water is essential to life because it keeps us hydrated. Having enough water on board can reduce the risk of migraines while improving energy.

Yet, despite the common sense aspect to drinking water and staying hydrated, some people insist on drinking tainted water that was perfectly good before some giant food company turned it into a liquid missile.

Drinking chemical liquids has become the norm. Millions of people worldwide choose to drink what I call “messed up water,” water that has been manufactured to contain lab-created dyes some of which trigger anxiety and asthma, various artificial sweeteners or preservatives, a few known carcinogens, as well as refi ned sugar.

I’m sure you’d be willing to at least offer your children a cleaner, healthier version of water if you knew how. So my intention today is to teach you how to make water prettier, tastier and fresher water with something cheap and easy like ice cubes.

I can show you how to make them me-

dicinal by infusing them with fruits or herbs. Then whenever you’re ready you can slowly tilt yourself in the direction of clean, pure water or fi zzy seltzer drinks. Changing from soda to water is easy if you want to. It’s just a choice, so try this:

Blueberries: Add three blueberries to each cube and freeze. When these melt in your water later on, you can eat them. Seltzer water is ideal. Blueberries enhance cognitive function, vision and cholesterol/triglyceride ratios.

Mint: Put a tiny sprig each ice cube. When it melts in your water it will add a minty zing and freshen your breath. Mint is great for energy and may improve digestion.

Strawberries: Use organic ones. Wash them and cut the stems, then slice thinly. Put a slice in each cube. Strawberries have 113 percent of the daily value of Vitamin C, plus a lot of manganese which makes your SOD (detoxification) enzyme work better.

Matcha: Brew some matcha green tea at half strength and then freeze it. These make beautiful green cubes and matcha infuses your water with EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which is a known cancer fighter and fat-burning compound.

Greens: Make superfood ice cubes out of your favorite brand of greens, I make mine at half-strength.

To receive more of my medicinal ice cube recipes, go to my website and sign up for my free newsletter at suzycohen. com.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Jewish Federation Launches Online Form To Report Th reats

NEW JERSEY – Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey announced it has partnered with more than 40 other Jewish Federations and the Secure Community Network (SCN), a safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America, to launch a new, standardized online form for the public to report threats, incidents, and suspicious activity related to Jewish organizations, facilities, or community members. The form is available on the Jewish Federation in the Heart of NJ website at jewishheartnj.org/report.

“This new online reporting form replaces our original form but can be reached through the same web link as before: jewishheartnj.org/report. It is one of the many ways Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey is continually improving and expanding on resources to protect the Jewish community,” said Amy Keller, Director of Security Initiatives. “Together with the Secure Community Network, we urge everyone to report anything suspicious or concerning so the appropriate action can be taken.”

Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey Security Initiatives support security needs at Jewish institutions in Monmouth and Greater Middlesex counties, NJ, through assessments and training, grant application and implementation support, communications and reporting resources, public advocacy, and incident intervention.

Information reported through the new incident reporting form is sent immediately to Federation security professionals and the 24-hour Duty Desk in SCN’s National Jewish Security Operations Command Center, where SCN’s intelligence analysts work with local Federation Security Initiatives using intelligence and information-sharing best practices to determine what people or facilities may be at risk, as well as what next steps to take. Credible threats are referred to local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and Jewish facility leaders as needed.

“Protecting safety and security in Jewish life is an ever-increasing Federation priority,” said Susan Antman, Executive Director of Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey. “Partnership among Federations across North America and SCN on tactics such as this new reporting form enables our highly connected communities to speed and strengthen individual and coordinated approaches to security threats, including communications with law enforcement, advocacy with elected officials, and the everyday practices of community members.”

“This is the fi rst nationally standardized incident reporting effort that ties together local Federation Security Initiatives and

SCN as a national partner, ensuring that wherever someone is, there can be timely, consistent, and accurate reporting of threats, incidents, and suspicious activity,” said SCN National Director and CEO Michael Masters. “This is critical to keeping the Jewish community safe. In a world where threats travel at the speed of social media, this effort enhances our ability to identify trends and incidents across communities and work with security professionals and law enforcement to address them. Through a coordinated, best practice approach to information sharing, this initiative will help us more effectively and efficiently address threats and issues before they turn to action.”

The new form can be used to report in-person assaults or threats; suspicious persons or activity; property damage or vandalism; threatening or suspicious phone calls, text messages, or social media; suspicious packages or letters; spam and phishing emails; anti-Semitic or threatening flyers; or other similar incidents of concern to the Jewish community. Reports may be made anonymously.

The effort will also allow Federation and partners to better aggregate and collect information, providing more comprehensive and reliable data to partners in the Jewish community and in law enforcement. This is especially important given findings that 1 in 3 law enforcement agencies in the United States – representing up to half of the Jewish community – did not report hate crimes data to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for 2021. The system was developed after careful analysis of the threat environment and a recognized need to ensure consistent, best practice incident reporting across the community, in line with national standards. The form was developed with input from key information-sharing, law enforcement, and public safety partners, as well as those in the nonprofit, academic, and private sectors. The form is designed to be compliant with federal reporting guidelines and constitutional requirements.

In an emergency, always call 9-1-1 first. If online reporting is not practical, follow established protocols to report suspicious activity:

• Contact local law enforcement and/or the relevant suspicious activity reporting authority

• Contact Jewish Federation in the Heart of NJ Security Initiatives at amyk@ jewishheartnj.org or by calling 732-5881817

• Contact the SCN Duty Desk at mailto:dutydesk@securecommunitynetwork.org or by calling 844-SCN-DESK.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

New Deputy Commissioner Named For Public Health Services

NEW JERSEY – Dr. Sejal Hathi, a former White House senior policy advisor, is joining the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) as Deputy Commissioner for Public Health Services, Commissioner Judith Persichilli announced.

Dr. Hathi will begin in her new role at NJDOH on July 3, replacing Dr. Meg Fisher, who has been serving as Acting Deputy Commissioner since September 2022 and will resume her role as Special Advisor to the Commissioner.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Hathi to the New Jersey Department of Health. Her experience will help guide our state as we continue to work to protect and improve public health on behalf of New Jersey residents,” said Commissioner Persichilli. “Her dedication and commitment to improving public health, maternal and child health, and health equity will help lead state policy for years ahead. We thank Dr. Fisher for stepping up and doing a tremendous job in filling the role of Acting Deputy Commissioner these past months.”

As the Deputy Commissioner for Public Health Services, Dr. Hathi will oversee the Divisions of Epidemiology, Environmental and Occupational Health; Family Health Services; HIV, STD and TB Services; Public Health Infrastructure, Laboratories and Emergency Preparedness; and the Offices of Local Public Health, Opioid Response and Policy, and Women’s Health.

As the White House’s Senior Policy Advisor for Public Health, Dr. Hathi led public health preparedness and response, medical supply chain, and climate health policy for the Domestic Policy Council. Dr. Hathi is also a board-certified internal medicine physician and previously served as assistant professor and joint faculty member at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health.

“I am deeply honored to join a department and an administration so fiercely dedicated to strengthening New Jersey’s

public health infrastructure and to ensuring equitable access to the services and opportunities that will make New Jersey stronger, fairer, and healthier for all,” Dr. Hathi said. “I look forward to tackling the challenges ahead as we rebuild in the wake of a once-in-a-century pandemic and accelerate progress on core public health priorities.”

Early in her career, Dr. Hathi founded and led two global social enterprises to advocate for women and girls, working over 10 years to support and mobilize more than 30,000 young women across six continents. In 2013, she was appointed as one of nine public health leaders to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s expert advisory group on women’s and children’s health, charged with evaluating and reporting global progress against maternal and child mortality.

More recently, Dr. Hathi served as the host and producer of Civic Rx, a podcast on health equity and social justice featuring long-form interviews with global leaders. She has served on numerous national boards related to public service and public health, and today maintains a role as a founding board member of Indiaspora. Dr. Hathi has spoken at TEDWomen, the World Health Assembly, and the United Nations, among other venues.

Dr. Hathi earned her M.D. and M.B.A. from Stanford University, where she studied as a Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow and a Harry S. Truman Scholar. She received a B.S. with honors in Molecular Biology from Yale University, where she was also a Global Health Fellow. She trained in internal medicine and primary care at Massachusetts General Hospital, during which time she also served on the faculty of Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Hathi currently resides in Princeton. Dr. Hathi is a delegate of the Academy of Achievement, a term member of the Council on Foreign Relations, and a member of the Yale University President’s Council on International Activities.

Composting: Black Garden Gold

JACKSON – Reap the rewards from composting at home. Reduce household waste, while creating wonderful, nutrient rich compost for your flowers and vegetables. Outdoor event, please dress accordingly.

Event will take place on July 19 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Ocean County Tree Nursery, 499 South Stump Tavern Road, Jackson. Free event. Opens to adults. For more information, visit oceancountyparks.org.

For Rent

Floating Dock Slip For Rent This Season - Private home in Baywood area in Brick 25 feet $990 Call 732-477-3053. (29)

Room For Rent - Female preferred.

LAKEWOOD/BRICK border area. $900 per month ++ Electric, [Negotiable] 1-848-326-7609. (29)

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)

Vintage Lighters wanted - One piece or entire collections. Looking for Zippo, Dunhill, Ronson, Cartier and European lighters. Email: vintageltr@aol.com or call Ira at 201-774-8482. (28)

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

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, turntables, musical instru-ments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (30)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Reggae, Blues, Jazz. Very Good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-4104. (30)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

Junk or Wrecked Cars and Trucks

Wanted - Cash paid. 732-6577251, Steve. Thanks. (29)

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)

Items For Sale

Rug 9x12, $25; - Golf club, $5 each; Pink golf bag, $35; End tables, $25; Large mirror, $25; Twin headboard, $35. 732-840-0022. (30)

Lands Exercise Bike New - Foldable. New $75. 732-849-2626. (30)

Advertise in the main sections of Micromedia’s weekly newspapers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Call 732-657-7344 ext. 206 for more information.

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Services Services Services Help Wanted

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)

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)

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)

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

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

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)

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

Do You Want Your Car To Look

Nice and Shine? - Call Lenny, Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (28)

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GARDEN COACH ASSISTS SEN-

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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)

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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.

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)

Are you bored? Looking for something to do? We are looking for the “Young at Heart”. Be part of the Merri-Makers Ambassador team! Start pay is $15 an hour with guaranteed tips, and a very flexible schedule. For more information contact Jessica at mmhiring@merrimakers.com or call 732-225-0009 (33)

Year round, P/T Assistant ManagerResponsible, reliable person for retail sales. Military experience helpful. Send resume to shorearmynavy@ gmail.com or call 732-597-0388 Must have appointment for interviews. (31)

Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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 = $

3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

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.

Total = $

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS – NO DISCOVER – info. below:

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

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

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

6. Please include your BIlling address and contact phone number (this is required)

Address

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publications)

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

Understanding Automobile Insurance In The Garden State

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

New Jersey offers two types of automobile insurance policies that may be purchased: a Standard Policy and a Basic Policy. A Standard Policy provides liability, uninsured motorist, and personal injury protection (medical) coverage. A Basic Policy only provides personal injury protection (medical) coverage limited. Protect yourself and choose the standard policy.

Liability Insurance insures you against claims made by others for the property damage or personal injury you caused while operating your vehicle. Liability Insurance protects you from paying money to someone from your own pocket. Your insurance coverage will pay any monetary damage that you are required to pay to someone else but only up to your insurance policy limits. Choose your liability policy limits wisely. Most people choose liability coverage of $100,000.00, but I recommend choosing at least $250,000.00 of liability insurance. The additional cost is usually nominal.

Personal Injury Protection coverage is also known as “PIP” or “No Fault” Insurance. The “No Fault” concept means that your automobile insurance will provide you with personal injury protection insurance (PIP) coverage regardless of fault. In other words, it does not matter who caused the car crash. As long as you were operating, using, or getting in /out of an

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

automobile at the time of the injury then you are covered. The “No-Fault” concept does not mean that the other driver is responsible for your medical bills. Protect yourself and choose the standard $250,000.00 in PIP Medical Expense Benefits.

Uninsured /Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) protects you against financially irresponsible drivers. Sometimes people operate their vehicles without insurance coverage or with only very little insurance coverage, like those who operate their vehicle with a Basic Policy which was discussed earlier. If you sustain property damage or bodily injury and the person responsible does not have enough insurance to cover your loss, then you can file a claim with your insurance company under your Uninsured /Underinsured Motorist Coverage. This coverage protects you and your family by providing additional insurance coverage for your loss, but only up to the policy limits that you choose. UM/UIM insurance coverage should never be less than your liability coverage. Most people choose liability coverage of $100,000.00, so your UM/UIM coverage should equal your liability coverage.

At R.C. Shea & Associates, our automobile insurance attorney, Michael J. Deem. Esq. is here to help you with your automobile insurance questions. Please give him a call.

Huckleberry Pogoda, who lives in Medford with his family, was visiting the Barnegat Lighthouse on Long Beach Island recently. He was very impressed with the new paint job and the restoration upgrades. Special thanks to Clarissa Pogoda for sharing this with us! Want to see your pix in this space? Wanna win a prize? Email your Jersey Shore pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may hear from us!

Floriography: The Victorian Language Of Flowers

TOMS RIVER – These days, social media and texts make it easy to let someone know how you feel about them. Back in the late 1800s, though, directly expressing your feelings was frowned upon.

So, what did those straight-laced Victorians do? They developed a “language” of combining flowers to let that special someone know how they were feeling…

whether it was love, compassion, jealousy, or even “I can’t stand the very thought of you!”

Learn to use flowers to express your emotions with this fun and informative presentation. Lecture will be held on July 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. at Cooper Environmental Center, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River. Fee is $5 per person. Open to ages 16 years and older.

Laser David Bowie At Robert J. Novins Planetarium

TOMS RIVER – Be a Rebel Rebel and put on your red shoes to dance the blues!

Enjoy the music of David Bowie, aka Ziggy Stardust set to dazzling laser lights. From Fame to Suffragette City, you’ll be singing

and clapping along.

Laser David Bowie At Robert J. Novins Planetarium will be on July 14 from 8:15 to 9:15 p.m. Purchase tickets at novinsplanetarium.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket#.

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

F & G AMES S UDOKU

Across

1 Swedish pop group with the 2021 album “Voyage”

5 Gels

9 Manhattan Project project, briefly

14 Moved smoothly

15 Country that outlawed alcohol in 1979

16 Home of the world’s tallest building

17 Throw hard

18 Disney title character from Hawaii

19 Like cellared wine

20 Group of apartments made of gingerbread?

23 Fall for 24 Convention giveaway

25 Card game with a Pixar version

28 Worship leader

31 Trio for Bergman

and Streep

35 Gang made up of very light eaters?

38 Keep hidden, perhaps

39 Skirt

40 Letter from ancient Troy

41 “Three Tall Women” playwright

42 __ chic

43 Logo designer’s dayto-day existence?

45 Like some jokes

47 “__ it obvious?”

48 Hard-to-prove skill

49 Soft ball

51 Toon spinner

53 Cute, furry problem for Captain Kirk?

59 Roadster since 1989

60 Part of a plot

61 Tarot’s swords, e.g.

63 Heavy metal bar 64 Crypto.com Arena statue honoree, familiarly 65 Corner

(c)2023

66 Brownish gray

67 Folk singer Axton

68 Simple cat toy

Down

1 2022 Australian Open winner Barty, familiarly

2 Bummed out

3 Jay or oriole

4 Surprise the director, maybe

5 “Wow, I am dumb!”

6 Empire State county

7 Puff stuff

8 Elitist

9 Rolls with the punches

10 Taps, say

11 Tony’s cousin

12 Tailless pet

13 Not insignificant

21 Complete a LEGO set

22 Synthesizer pioneer 25 Kabayaki fish

26 Bond player in the original “Casino Royale”

TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

27 Yamaha products

29 Pretentious

30 Heat setting?

32 “Three Billboards ...

“ actress Cornish

33 Sailing hazards

34 Quite expensive

36 Two-piece piece

37 Remnants in a crayon box

41 Sacred stand

43 Tesla, e.g.

44 Hush-hush

46 Pre-election event

50 Superhero who taps into the Speed Force

52 Hot

53 Mother of BeyoncŽ and Solange Knowles

54 Trattoria sauce

55 Unoriginal reply

56 DVD holder

57 Special glow

58 Management level

59 I.M. Pei’s alma mater

62 Score half

CROSSWORD PUZZLE S

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of july 8 - july 14

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may be feeling like you have dug yourself into a hole and could be expecting people to crowd around and fill it in. Listen to others and you can understand their true feelings. Try not to take people for granted.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : Now may be the time to start looking at broadening your horizons or finding a new place to spend your time. Networking with colleagues or reaching out to someone outside your normal circles could pay off later.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You might feel a relationship has put you in a tough spot, but pride could be holding you back from telling the truth. It may be time to put more effort into a side gig so you can cover your financial commitments.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): If you are feeling confused by your choices or actions right now, it’s time to sit down, reflect and do some self-inquiry. Figure out what you really, really want and need and go forward accordingly.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Everything comes down to doing the work to keep getting better. If you have talent but are feeling rusty you could be envious of others’ success. Instead of being discouraged, practice enough to restore your own mastery.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Words can sometimes prove to be tricky. What you meant could be mistranslated upon delivery. Common phrases for you may be foreign languages to others, rather than hope they understand, strive to be as clear as possible.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Judging

a book by its cover no matter how pretty or interesting cannot give you an accurate idea of the contents within. Be honest about your abilities and you can prove who you really are and what you have to offer.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You may be feeling like your identity is tied to your career, your partner or your fashion sense. You have always been more than that. The true, unvarnished, original person you are is waiting for her chance to shine.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) : You deserve unconditional love and may want to reflect it back on loved ones. If you find yourself in a squabble, remember that regardless of history, you might need to stay calm to reach a solution everyone can respect.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : You can be capable of all the necessary precisions but could end up distracted by your own emotions at times. Thorough research may help you to better understand the questions and help you find more meaningful answers.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Games of chance may have the same odds no matter how you play the game. The only way to improve your chances is to alter the timing. Try to be cautious about spending right now, you might need your rainy-day fund someday. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Well-intentioned commentary may feel like an attack right now. Listen to what they have to say and try not to take things personally. What they have to say could be the steps you need to take to reach your full potential.

CHEESY, SMOKY PLATE OF NACHOS WILL BRIGHTEN UP ANY COOKOUT

By America’s Test Kitchen

NACHOS

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.