2023-07-15 - The Southern Ocean Times

timeless talent portrayed at senior art exhibit

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER –

Ocean County government offices and the Toms River Art Community (TRAC) joined hands last month to curate the 2023 Ocean County Senior Art Exhibit, a remarkable event celebrating the artistic talents of local senior citizens.

The exhibition represented a collaborative effort between TRAC, the Ocean County Offices of Senior Services, and the Ocean County Tourism office. Every inch of space within the TRAC gallery showcased works from Ocean County artists over 60.

As the doors opened, the gallery buzzed with excitement, with both the artists and visitors stepping in to witness the display of breathtaking creations. The standing-room-only event led to some aminated discussion with

(Art - See Page 4)

Bee Queen Teaches Her Subjects About Pollinators

By

County’s First

Medical Cannabis Dispensary Opens

By Stephanie Faughnan

WARETOWN – Nearly three years ago the Township of Ocean defi ned the approved zone for retail sales of medical cannabis. It’s taken since then for Ocean County’s fi rst-ever medical marijuana dispensary to open for business.

Located at 501 U.S. 9 in Waretown, BLOC’s license only allows them to sell cannabis to those who are registered patients of the New Jersey Medicinal Cannabis Program.

GOP Leaders Endorse Democrat Prosecutor

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER –Breaking the mold of traditional partisan politics, the Ocean County Commissioners have asked Governor Phil Murphy to reappoint Bradley D. Billhimer to a second five-year term as the county’s prosecutor.

All five members of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners are prominent Republicans; Billhimer is a Democrat.

During a recent meeting, the Commissioners unanimously passed a resolution requesting Murphy to consider Billhimer’s reappointment. The resolution highlighted Billhimer’s commitment to justice and his efforts to address the evolving needs of Ocean County. It praised

(Dispensary - See Page 12) (Prosecutor - See Page 5)

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan BLOC opened as a medical cannabis dispensary in Waretown on July 5.

(Bee Queen - See Page 13)

Photos courtesy NJ Honey Queen Program 4-H students worked at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bee Yard to understand the struggles facing pollinators. Kaitlyn Culbert.

Chris Lundy CREAM RIDGE – The local student known as the Honey Bee Queen is being crowned with other titles and awards for her work in studying parasites that are impacting the bee populations.

Kaitlyn Culbert, a student in Toms River High School North, was presented the President’s Youth Environmental Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

(Above) Mary Prendergast’s sculpture of a warrior woman took more than four years to create. (Right) The Ocean County Senior Art Exhibit featured something interesting to see in every inch of the TRAC gallery.

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the artists who shared the inspirations leading to their work.

Among the participants was Mary Prendergast of Toms River, a professional artist who has been honing her craft for many years. Her captivating sculpture of a warrior woman caught the attention of visitors and judges alike. The piece mirrors Prendergast’s journey of resilience and determination, having overcome a life-threatening spider bite years ago.

“She’s a warrior who just needed a little rest,” Prendergast explained. “She’s been traveling and traveling, and now she just needed to take a break with her spear – and is just whittling away and making another feather.”

Prendergast’s dedication to her art was evident in the time she invested in creating the warrior sculpture made of oil-based clay and epoxied to a wooden base. It took Prendergast nearly four years to complete the piece, showcasing her patience and attention to detail.

The event featured several framed art pieces, including Leunish “Leon” Devero’s “Every Day is a New Beginning.” Devero, of Manchester, recently retired as a Linden High School art teacher.

Devero said his painting was intended to convey a powerful message, spotlighting a man gazing out at a serene morning scene.

“The open door shows that He lets you know that it’s a new beginning each day,” said Devero. “I wanted to show that it’s

up to all of us to take the incentive and do something great each day.”

TRAC’s president, Lisa Cifaretto, revealed that a total of 78 artists submitted their entries for consideration in the art show. The professional and non-professional participants competed in 11 distinct categories, including Acrylic Painting, Craft, Digital Art, Mixed Media, Oil Painting, Photography, Pastel, Print, Sculpture, Watercolor, and Works on Paper. This diverse range of artistic disciplines ensured a rich and varied display of talent throughout the event.

Before announcing the winners, Maria LaFace, Director of the Ocean County Office of Senior Services, spoke about her department’s role in the community.

“At Senior Services, we help people fi nd food every week,” said LaFace. “We help people who are struggling with homelessness and people who can’t pay for their prescriptions. It gets very heavy at times, but this is something to celebrate and to see older adults still being creative and contributing – thank you for bringing all this beauty to the county.”

Challenging the notion that artistic talents wane with age, Toms River resident Mary Petrosino received special recognition as the event’s oldest participant. At 96 years old, her artwork from six years ago was prominently displayed, showcasing that age imposes no limitations when crafting beautiful masterpieces.

“We just wanted you to know we love your art,” Cifaretto said to Petrosino. “We appreciate your love for art and it’s because of people like you that we keep doing this.”

Gladys Rivera was awarded fi rst place in Acrylic Painting in the Professional Division, while Robert Villar secured the top spot in the Non-Professional division for the same category. Second and third place recognition in the Professional Division went to Zenka Sommers and Margaret Greener, with Kami Simpson earning an honorable mention. Arthur Rone took second place in the Non-Professional division, followed by Veronica Pearce in third place, and honorable mention awarded to Susan Farbor.

The judges selected Samuel Sinelnikov as the blue ribbon recipient in the Professional Division’s Craft category, while Denise Fitzgerald emerged as the winner in the Non-Professional Division.

Robert Henne’s Digital artwork earned him fi rst place in the Professional Division of that category.

In the Mixed Media category, Jane Brida secured the fi rst place in the Professional Division, with Christine Sleckman and Carole Gernett awarded second and third places. Leon Devero claimed the top spot in the Non-Professional Division, with second place recognition awarded to Carol Bricnell.

Valerie Morone and Debbie Rooney emerged victorious in the Oil Painting category, securing the fi rst place in their respective divisions. Following Marone in the Professional Division were Mary Jo Austin and Thomas Nulton in second and third places. Alice Van Note earned honorable mention. In the Non-professional Division, second place was awarded to Renate Kupatt, third to Michelle Dilion, and

honorable mention to Ruth Bernarducci.

Debbie Gentile and Raymond Crouch showcased their remarkable photography skills, earning them the fi rst place in the Professional and Non-Professional divisions, respectively. Candace Ross received a red ribbon for her work in the Professional Division. In the Non-Professional Division, Haya Gray was awarded second place, Roy Winograd, third, and Tom Quattrocchi, an honorable mention.

Jo Lynn Tritto Jacobino and Charles Sulkowski claimed fi rst place ribbons in the Professional and Non-Professional divisions of the Pastel category. Margarete Noesner was selected as the second place winner for the Professional Division. Liz Quattrocchi and Patricia Mono Autore earned second and third place recognition in the Non-Professional Division.

Jo Guscott’s print artwork stood out in the Professional Division as the fi rst place winner, with no exhibitors noted in the Non-Professional Division.

In the Sculpture category, Mary Prendergast and Ilene Van Duyne’s works earned first place in their respective divisions. Following Prendergast in the Professional Division, Mark Dornan was awarded second place, and Victor Sevceuko, third place.

Clara Sue Beym and Janet Grossart triumphed in the Watercolor category, selected as blue ribbon winners in the Professional and Non-Professional divisions, respectively. Janice Nelson received a red ribbon in the Professional Division, as did Clint (Art - See Page 5)

Prosecutor:

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his establishment of various community outreach programs, including Ocean County Cares and the Escape the Vape Taskforce, as well as his initiatives to combat the opioid epidemic.

Billhimer’s work in strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the faith-based community was also commended. Additionally, the prosecutor’s focus on bias prevention and his collaboration with numerous organizations for public safety and education in Ocean County were recognized.

The resolution passed by the Ocean County Commissioners includes references to Billhimer’s commitment to school-aged children. He and his team have conducted over 145 presentations in more than 70 schools during the 2022-2023 academic year alone. Through these meetings, they have reached over 20,000 students, educating them about topics such as internet safety, social media, and bullying.

As the county’s top law enforcement officer, Billhimer has taken his role beyond prosecuting crimes. In a remarkable initiative, he organized a symposium for local

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Lehman in the Non-Professional Division. Donna Burton was awarded third place in the Non-Professional Division, with Judith

police officials to engage in a candid and accelerated discussion about perceived biases in law enforcement interactions. This proactive approach distinguished Billhimer as the sole county prosecutor to undertake such an endeavor.

“I know Brad has the support of local legislators, and we want to get the Governor to fast-track this,” said Commissioner Gary Quinn. “We don’t want to drag out his life or ours.”

Quinn acknowledged Billhimer’s presence in the rear of the meeting room, while offering further commentary on what he called the “phenomenal job” the prosecutor has done since his appointment in 2018.

Commissioner Jack Kelly said that he’d received a number of calls asking why a Republican board would support a Democrat appointment.

“What I’ve told every one of them, I’ll say here publicly,” Kelly shared. “Because Brad Billhimer has been a nonpartisan –not a bipartisan, but nonpartisan prosecutor who has done an outstanding job for the people of Ocean County. I support anybody who supports the people of Ocean County.”

The other three commissioners echoed similar sentiments regarding Billhimer’s service to the county.

Schimmel acknowledged with an honorable mention for her work.

Charles Wesley and Tracy Sette topped the Works on Paper category in the Professional and Non-Professional divisions, respectively. In the Non-Professional Division, Jamie

Billhimer’s ties to the community run deep as an Ocean County native who graduated from the Toms River school system. His commitment to the local area continued throughout his educational journey, as he pursued his undergraduate studies fi rst at Ocean County College before transferring to Richard Stockton College of New Jersey.

In 1994, he was selected to work in Washington, D.C. as an intern for former United States Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ).

After earning his JD from Widener University, Billhimer returned to his hometown to establish his legal career. He began by serving as a law clerk to the Honorable Barbara Ann Villano, J.S.C., in Ocean County, gaining valuable insights into the judicial system. He then went on to work in the private sector, ultimately establishing his own criminal defense law practice.

In addition to his law career, Billhimer has actively contributed to the bar activities and community organizations. He has served as an adjunct professor, sharing his professional expertise with students.

In 2018, Governor Murphy appointed Billhimer as the Ocean County Prosecutor, a position he assumed after being sworn in by the Honorable Marlene Lynch Ford,

Fox received second place, Grace Mataka, third place, and George Chaphain, honorable mention.

The first place winners from each category will have their artwork showcased at the state level as part of New Jersey’s annual

A.J.S.C.

New Jersey’s State Constitution intentionally designates a five-year term for county prosecutors, who are selected by the governor and approved by the state senate. This deliberate provision ensures that their tenure is not synchronized with the term of the governor who appointed them.

By setting a fi xed term, the Constitution aims to provide continuity and independence to county prosecutors, allowing them to carry out their duties without undue influence from political changes or shifts in gubernatorial administrations.

Only a handful of Ocean County prosecutors have remained in the position for more than five years.

Marlene Lynch Ford, held the position from 2007 to 2013. After her tenure, she received a judicial appointment to the Superior Court and recently retired as the Ocean County Assignment Judge.

Several years prior to Ford, Edward Turnbach served as the Ocean County Prosecutor from 1976 to 1987, making him the second most recent prosecutor to hold the position for more than one term. He was appointed as a Superior Court Judge in 1987, serving until his retirement from the bench in 2006.

Senior Citizen Art Show. Their exceptional creations will be displayed alongside the winning artworks from other counties across the state. In 2022, eighteen of New Jersey’s 21 counties participated in the statewide exhibit.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

Several of our nearby towns are having trouble defining what their “downtown” really is. Most of them are confi ned to the few major roads going through them. Route 9, 37, and 70 are the big state roads, and there are county roads that usually have a lot of big businesses, but they’re not really “downtown” because they are usually places you drive through to get where you really want to go.

The defi nition of “downtown” is vague, but usually it’s a collection of homes and small businesses that create local flavor. It’s a destination.

People visit Cape May or Red Bank but it’s too expensive to live there.

The “smart money” builds commercial properties first, and then

How To Make A Downtown Without Apartments

builds apartments over –or near – these commercial areas so that the businesses will have built-in customers. This smart money is really stupid. This isn’t how the world works anymore. You can order something from Amazon or a big box store and have it delivered that day.

Convenience is king, and you can’t get more convenient than never leaving your home. That’s why apartments over commercial establishments aren’t a slam dunk anymore.

What a downtown really needs is businesses next to more businesses.

Our leaders need to zone to create jobs. It’s no secret that the Parkway is packed in the morning as everyone goes to work – because everyone is working somewhere else.

Instead of having apartment buildings, build office space. Entice corporations to move their headquarters in. If you want to build up your town, you have to give your people jobs.

If you have 100 people working downtown, they will be spending more money than 100 people living downtown.

I’ve worked in enough offices to know that workers are dying to fi nd an excuse to take a break. A coffee shop on the first floor of an office complex will do way more business than an apartment complex. Why? Because workers will be stepping out to get coffee all day long. “Hey, boss, I’m going downstairs. You want something?”

If you’re home, you might not go to the elevator, go to the bottom floor, then go to

the corner shop. If you’re working, spending 20-30 minutes out of the office to run an errand is a lot more likely.

People don’t usually go out to lunch, or order lunch, when they’re home. But they do very often when they’re at work.

If you live over a restaurant, you’re going to have bugs and mice getting into your home. That won’t happen as much in an office complex because there aren’t pantries for vermin to infiltrate.

Entertainment is usually part of the “downtown” feel. Theaters, small concert venues and other things to do create jobs and a nightlife. When the office crowd leaves, the night shift comes in. They’re not competing for parking with the people who live there all

Letters To The Editor

Editor’s note: This letter is a response to the article

“Let’s Drive Away Bullying,” published June 17 in The Berkeley Times.

Bullying is very subjective, which makes it hard to pinpoint unless it’s obvious. Calling someone a

name? Eh. Saying unpleasant things to someone? Eh.

Both of those things require the “victims” to grow a thicker skin that will enable them to get through life much easier, otherwise you will go through life as a “victim” and never really reach your full potential.

So, what is real bullying?

I would say when someone

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The Southern Ocean 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

edit or reject letters.

The weekly deadline is 5 p.m.

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.

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is constantly harassed by someone or a group of people using harsh words. Hitting or pushing someone? No. That is battery. Making threats of bodily harm? No. Harassment? No. Stalking? No. Mounting an online campaign of harassment? No. All of those things are prohibited by law and the perpetrators of such crimes should be charged as such.

The problem with our schools, as we recently saw at (Central Regional High School), is that they do nothing about it and allow small situations to grow into bigger situations, and let’s be honest here, school administrations are the biggest bullies of all. Ask any parent who has complained what happens to them or their children, or simply wants proper services put in place to better educate them.

That people believe that they can “drive away bul-

the time.

Additionally, if you’re living in an apartment, you’re spending more than $1,600 a month on rent. You’re not going to be a consumer. You don’t have the money to support your local businesses.

Small businesses create wealth. Apartments only create wealth for one person – the owner of the building.

Due to a lawsuit many years ago, every town has to set aside a certain number of affordable housing units every time there’s a development. Towns are assessed using some convoluted formula and told how many units to set aside. Commercial development works into the equation, too. So, if there’s a huge office building, the town’s affordable housing number

would go up and those units would have to be placed somewhere.

That’s why towns need to have truly affordable units. The state’s definition of affordable is laughable, way more expensive than the poor can really afford. Therefore, towns should create one-bedroom homes.

Instead of filling a downtown area with a few businesses and tons of 3-bedroom apartments, consider this instead: Rows of small, accessible, locally-owned small businesses. Throw on a layer or two of offices. Then top it all off with a floor of one-bedroom apartments. That’s how you make a downtown.

Chris Lundy News Editor

lying” is ludicrous. That is never going to happen because it’s built into the human condition. Can we reduce it? Sure. Eradicate it? No.

The best defense is to raise your children to be good people, to be leaders, to do the right thing, to grow a thick skin, and learn to ignore the (expletive deleted) of the world. That’s how you get around bullying, not by playing the victim. Will even good kids do stupid things? Absolutely, but try another course in raising them instead of coddling and helicopter parenting, don’t accept trophies and awards that they didn’t earn, and stop living your life vicariously through your children. Let them live their own lives because they aren’t you and they will never be you and both they and the world will be a better place when they grow into their own selves

without constantly having to live up to the ridiculous expectations of parents who are bitter about not being who they wanted to be because their parents did to them what they are doing to their own kids.

Stanley C. Bayville

The Supreme Court Has A Legitimacy Crisis

Supreme Court decisions impact every facet of American life. Unfortunately, those decisions don’t reflect the will of the people.

Mitch McConnell’s rightwing majority Court gutted voting rights, opened the floodgates to unlimited corporate money in our elections, struck down gun safety laws, and limited

the government’s ability to protect our air and water. Since they overturned Roe v. Wade, abortion has been effectively banned (with extremely limited exceptions) in fourteen states. Nearly 1 in 3 Americans have lost access to abortion care.

This can’t go on. We need to move away from these types of extremely partisan rulings and restore the legitimacy of the Court by passing the Judiciary Act to expand and rebalance the bench.

Congress has changed the size of the Supreme Court seven times already in our nation’s history - and they must do it again to ensure that the justices protect our freedoms, not advance their own radical political agendas. It’s time for Congress to pass the Judiciary Act.

Pamela Talbot Toms River

Bill Would Help Federal Workers Fly With Pets

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Fly Pet Exception for Traveling Swiftly (PETS) Act, legislation that facilitates easier overseas transport of pets for all U.S. Government (USG) personnel when they are being assigned to a post abroad. Current law requires USG personnel, both military and civilian, to deploy via U.S.-flagged air carriers when traveling on commercial flights with funds

From The Desk Of The Governor Phil Murphy

LONG BRANCH – Governor Phil Murphy signed a series of bills to continue the fight to combat auto theft in New Jersey. The four bills strengthen the criminal penalties associated with auto theft, with a particular focus on persistent, repeat offenders and large-scale automobile trafficking networks.

“Every person should be able to feel safe and secure in the communities they call home. That is why over the past year we have taken serious steps to crack down on the troubling rise in auto thefts,” said Governor Murphy. “Today’s comprehensive bill signing is an additional step in the right direction. I am grateful to our legislative leaders for recognizing the seriousness of this issue and for taking swift action to bring these bills to my desk. Together, we will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to keep New Jerseyans safe.”

A4930/S3390 expands criminal penalties related to the illegal use of motor vehicle master keys. Motor vehicle master keys are key fobs or computer programs that have the ability to operate the locks or start a motor vehicle. Under the bill, individuals who knowingly possess one of these devices or programs for unlawful purposes or advertise these devices or programs knowing that such items are commonly used for unlawful purposes will be guilty of a fourth-degree crime. These provisions do not apply to law enforcement personnel, insurance organizations, or leasing business entities.

A4931/S2284 establishes the crimes of theft of a motor vehicle and receiving a stolen motor vehicle as separate statutory provisions resulting in either a second- or a third-degree crime, depending on the value of the car. Additionally, the bill pro-

provided by the federal government when they receive orders for a permanent change of station. This law sometimes causes unnecessary, burdensome, and costly logistical hurdles at transit stops, such as additional paperwork, vaccinations, and potential unforeseen days- or weeks-long quarantine for pets.

Since many U.S. airlines have sharply reduced pet transport services since 2020, USG personnel with pets are sometimes forced to deploy once with their families on a U.S. carrier and then again, at their own expense, with their pets on a foreign carrier. The Fly PETS Act would remove these burdensome requirements by allowing USG personnel to deploy via a foreign-flagged

carrier if they travel with a pet that no U.S.-flagged carrier will transport.

Senator Booker’s bill shows bicameral support for facilitating safe and swift pet transportation as Congress authorizes legislation for the Departments of State and Defense. A bipartisan version of the bill, H.R. 3384, was introduced by Representatives Dean Phillips (D-MN-03) and Mark Green (R-TN-07) in the House last month.

“USG personnel often experience unnecessary barriers when relocating or moving overseas with their families and pets on government orders,” said Sen. Booker.“These challenges add burdensome costs for diplomats and servicemembers and may dissuade some of our most qualified personnel from taking some overseas assignments.

The Fly PETS Act is common-sense legislation that will make it easier for all USG personnel to

Laws Toughened Against Auto Theft

vides for extended sentences for certain persistent motor vehicle offenders. If an individual has been convicted on two or more prior, separate occasions of carjacking theft, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, or receiving stolen property that is a motor vehicle, then that individual may be subject to an extended term of imprisonment upon request of the prosecutor.

A5034/S3006 expands the crime of “leader of auto theft trafficking network” by amending the definition of said “leader” to include persons who conspire with others as participants to engage for profit or to commit other criminal activity in a scheme or course of conduct to unlawfully take, dispose of, distribute, bring into, or transport motor vehicle or motor vehicle parts as stolen property. The bill also establishes that the “participant in auto theft network” will result in a third-degree crime.

A5189/S3777 eliminates the presumption of pretrial release for defendants charged with certain motor vehicle theft offenses if the defendant was arrested or convicted of a prior motor vehicle theft offense within the 90-day-period preceding the charge. Under the bill, the presumption of pretrial release would not apply to an eligible defendant charged with theft of or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle or receiving stolen property where the property involved is a motor vehicle if on one or more prior and separate occasions during the 90-day-period preceding the charge, the defendant was arrested for or convicted of theft of or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle; receiving stolen property where the property involved is a motor vehicle; or a crime under any statute of the United States, this State, or any other state that is substantially equivalent to any of the crimes listed above.

In the past year, the Murphy Administration has taken several steps to address the problem of auto thefts.

Earlier this year, the Governor signed S249/ A2210, making it more difficult for bad actors to

sell stolen catalytic converters to scrap yards and making it easier for law enforcement to identify, locate, and prosecute violators. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin also announced in April 2023 that 34 law enforcement agencies in 21 counties and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) will receive grant funding to acquire or expand automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology across the state, building on Governor Murphy’s 2022 $10 million investment in the technology to reduce violent crime and auto theft in New Jersey through the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) State Fiscal Recovery Fund.

Auto theft measures taken in the last year have proven to be successful, resulting in a 10 percent decrease in auto thefts from January through May of this year compared to that same period last

transport their pets, reducing the stress they and their families experience as they travel abroad to serve our country.”

“For servicemembers stationed overseas, pets provide comfort, stability, and a reminder of home,” said Rep. Phillips. “But overly complicated hurdles slow down diplomats and servicemembers and their pets from getting to their posts. This bill is a commonsense way to improve diplomacy, reduce costs, and remove bureaucratic hurdles so that American diplomats can travel swiftly and efficiently to their posts.”

The Fly PETS Act would also further U.S. foreign policy goals by helping to staff critical overseas assignments with the best USG personnel and will save U.S. taxpayer money by avoiding transit stops that require additional costs and unforeseen delays in travel time.

year, and a 10 percent decrease in auto thefts for the last four months of 2022 compared to those same months in 2021.

In the recently signed Fiscal Year 2024 budget, $2 million more was allocated to increase the investment in statewide pretrial services, which will expand social service offerings and on-ramps to programming support for people awaiting trial.

“Car thefts are a personal and sometimes violent attack on an innocent victim,” said Peter Andreyev, Executive Vice President, New Jersey State PBA. “The bills ... will allow law enforcement to target the leaders of these theft rings and make sure that repeat offenders are properly adjudicated. On behalf of the New Jersey State PBA, I would like to thank Governor Murphy and the bill sponsors for their support on this serious public safety issue.”

Stress can wreak havoc on both our mental and physical health. It can even damage our eyes. Stress causes our bodies to increase their adrenaline production, which creates pressure in the eyes and causes vision to blur, making it difficult to focus. Stress also makes our pupils dilate (it is part of the body’s fight or flight response). This lets more light in, improving our ability to see potential threats, but also increasing light sensitivity, which can be uncomfortable, sometimes even painful. Spasms or twitches in our eyelids are other signs that stress may be affecting our eye health, as is the tension in the muscles around the eyes and forehead.

If you have a consistent issue with your eyes, no matter what’s going on in your life, the problem is likely with your eyes instead of your stress level. Make sure to see an eye doctor if you have persistent eye trouble. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. If you are experiencing vision problems due to stress, the good news is they are almost always reversible. Better stress management will lead to better eye sight.

Police Captain Celebrates Retirement

STAFFORD – After 27 years of honorable service Stafford Township Police Department bids farewell to one of their all-time favorites, Captain James Vaughn.

Throughout his career, Captain Vaughn has served in various positions within the Stafford Township Police Department including Patrol, Traffic Safety, Com-

Photo courtesy Stafford Police munity Policing, climbing the ranks to his most recent role as Captain of the Services Division.

Captain Vaughn is also well-known for his many years of volunteering, coaching children for over 15 years in the Stafford Recreation Basketball League. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement Captain Vaughn, you will be missed by all!

Food And Supply Drive For Emmanuel Cancer Foundation

STAFFORD – The Stafford Township Woman’s Club is joining the NJ Federation of Women’s Clubs in supporting the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation.

They are sponsoring a “Food, Etc. Drive” on July 18 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. outside the Community Center on E. Bay Avenue in Manahawkin. Valerie Tiase will be there to accept your donations. Any STWC members are welcome to join her.

Any non-perishable food will be appreciat-

ed. Especially needed are: breakfast foods; oatmeal, cold cereal, pancake mix.

For the moms who spend the entire time in the hospital with their sick child, they are requesting: puzzle books, travel toothbrush and toothpaste, tissues, hard candies, snacks, granola bars... and anything else you think may help them pass the time.

You can bring your donations to our June General Meeting. You can also request that Valerie pick it up.

New Officer Sworn In

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certified Copies Of Death Certificates,

STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to congratulate Tyler Verge, who was sworn in as the Township’s newest Special Law Enforcement Offi cer Class I.

Photo courtesy Stafford Township

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Local Pets Available For Adoption

for adoption.

Gildan is the sweetest little guy of just 2 months old that came to the shelter with his whole family in search of a fresh start in life. Thank goodness they’re all safe and indoors now, after being born outside to a stray mom. All of Gildan’s siblings exercise a little caution when meeting new people but Gildan, well, he just can’t control himself.

As soon as you pet this little clown, he

Photo courtesy AHS basically figures he’s just going to let loose and trust you. He purrs up a storm and he simply can’t get enough attention! He’s a real goofball that is happy to play and snuggle, and he loves wrestling around his siblings too. Gildan would be happy to be adopted with one of them, or go to a home with another friendly kitten or cat to pal around with.

Call 609-693-1900, visit ahscares. org/forked-river-adoptables/ or email: office@ahsppz.org for an adoption application.

Historical Society Walking Tours

STAFFORD – What a beautiful night it was for the Stafford Historical Society’s first-ever walking tour of Mayetta!

Attendance was one of the biggest yet and member host Kathy could not have been more gracious inviting us into her little piece of paradise.

It was a fantastic night of history and friends both old and new, sharing stories and stepping back in time into this

magical oasis. It is obvious that Kathy is passionate and excited about preserving these pieces of Stafford Township history, their stories and her own adventures in restoring these beautiful old houses from the previous two centuries.

Mark your calendars for our next walking tour…Wednesday evening September 20. Time and location will be announced later in the summer.

LACEY – The Associated Humane Society shelter at the Popcorn Park Zoo has pets available

Photo courtesy Stafford Historical Society

C OMMUNITY N

Municipal Staff Celebrates Retirement

STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to congratulate Rick Barlet on his retirement! Rick has been the Township’s Plumbing Subcode Offi cial for more than 19 years. Thank you for your dedication to the Township and we wish you all the best!

Traveling Pickleball

OCEAN COUNTY – Have you been wanting to give this strange-sounding sport a try but didn’t know where? This beginner’s workshop will get you playing in no time. The parks department will be traveling to different locations to teach the game which is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. All equipment will be supplied. Please wear sneakers and bring a drink. Rain dates cannot be rescheduled.

Pickleball Courts 5 & 6, “Tip” Seaman County Park, Tuckerton: July 17 to 20 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Tennis Courts, Pearl Street & Ocean Avenue,

Beach Haven: July 24 to 27 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Pickleball Courts, Veterans Park, Tilton Boulevard off Veterans Boulevard, Berkeley: July 31 to August 3 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Pickleball Courts, Magee Avenue & The Bay Front, Lavallette: August 7 to 10 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Pickleball Courts 3 &, 4, Jakes Branch County Park, Beachwood: August 14 to 17 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Cost is $12 per person. Open to adults. To register, visit oceancountyparks.org or call 732-506-9090.

Town-Wide Yard Sale

STAFFORD – Time to clean out those closets, empty the attic and declutter the basement, the second town wide yard sale of the year is here! Yard sale will be September 9 and 10 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Complete the Registration Form and mail to: Stafford Recreation, 260 East Bay Avenue Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

Or email all information from the form to: dbudesa@staffordnj.gov. No telephone calls will be accepted for registration. Deadline for registration is August 25. No permit is necessary to join this yard sale.

Visit staffordnj.gov/409/Town-Wide-YardSale for further details and the registration form. Questions? Call 609-597-1000 ext. 8583.

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- Bonding

- Invisalign

- Porcelain Crowns

- Veneers

- Zoom In-Office Whitening

• Surgical Procedures

• Cosmetic Injections/Fillers

Dr. Edward Burg

Dr. Duncan Chapple

Dr. William Dennis

Dr. Anthony LoPresti

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Photo courtesy Stafford Township

Dispensary:

Continued From Page 1

When township officials fi rst approved the local law, they were the anomaly in Southern Ocean County. Neighboring towns on both sides specifically decided against any type of cannabis sales – despite the fact that a majority of voters were in favor of recreational marijuana.

Amidst financial struggles within the township’s schools, Board of Education members suggested the town might consider sharing revenue generated by potential cannabis businesses. Township officials reserved comment on the proposal – which is now a moot discussion.

Initially, under New Jersey state law, the municipality had the potential to collect a two percent share from all cannabis retail sales. However, as of July 1, 2022, the law underwent changes as far as medical marijuana. Consequently, the Township of Ocean will only receive revenue from the dispensary in the form of property taxes, the same as every other business.

Locals may recall the steel structure that stood in the Waretown Town Center for an extended period. The project was initially intended for another entity that decided to change locations. In August 2021, government authorities shared the news that they’d granted approval for the construction of a medical cannabis dispensary in the front of the plaza where ShopRite is the primary tenant.

People speculated about the delays in the mysterious construction that seemed to constantly stop and start again. Like most

projects, COVID and building supply issues were a factor. A year ago, BLOC hoped to open its doors in October of 2022.

Once construction delays concluded, the next issue was the usual red tape associated with any business requiring state approval. The new dispensary invited residents to see its facility before product was on location – to bring a sense of ease to the community.

“The Township of Ocean is happy to announce the opening of BLOC-Medical Cannabis Dispensary,” said Diane Ambrosio, Township Administrator. “As the fi rst medical cannabis dispensary in Ocean County, they have been able to assist many people in need of medical cannabis with drive-thru access. Patients will no longer need to drive an hour away to get their prescriptions filled.”

Within days of BLOC’s opening, Ocean County’s fi rst recreational cannabis shop held its grand opening in South Toms River. The same tax restrictions don’t apply when it comes to recreational sales, cultivators or manufacturers – South Toms River is receiving an annual fee plus 2% of its net profits, Mayor Oscar Cradle said.

Meanwhile, the Township of Ocean has made some changes since its fi rst cannabis ordinance. While there are no new laws in place concerning recreational sales, the town is accepting applications for other types of cannabis licensed businesses. There is a $10,000 registration fee for the fi rst year and then a $10,000 annual fee is required for cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and medical dispensaries.

Local Firefi ghters

STAFFORD – On June 28, members of the Stafford Township Fire Company participated in a training that focused on Pump Operations, Hose Handling, Draft Operations and Tower Ladder Operations. These are common drills that teach the members lifesaving skills needed in

Wednesday night at 7 p.m. and speak to one of the members.

Bee Queen:

Continued From Page 1

It was given to her by the EPA Chief of Staff, Olivia Glenn, at the Honey Harvest in honor of Pollinator Week at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bee Yard in Cream Ridge.

The Honey Harvest that she organized was a way to show other youth the importance of hive health. There were 18 teenaged 4-H members and their parents from six counties who attended, she said.

The 4-H members accompanied Chelsea Abegg from Rutgers to the bee lab to learn about different species and hives. They ended the day by extracting honey. They also got to look at pollinators under the microscope.

“I was honored to discuss my science research on Varroa mites and thymol-based essential oils with Secretary of Agriculture, Doug Fisher, Assemblyman Alex Sauickie, and Paul Hlubik from the Department of Agriculture,” she said. “Jeff Burd and Angela Juffey from NJ Beekeepers Association and Dr. Brian Schilling from Rutgers also accompanied me on the day’s events. Our State Apiarist, Meghan McConnell, and Ashley Kerr from the Farm Bureau also stopped by.”

Culbert and Abegg have another honey harvest for 4-H teens on August 16, which is National Honey Bee Day.

The honey bee population is threatened by climate change and Varroa mites, the leading killer of honey bees. Her ongoing study is to develop a way to predict Colony Collapse Disorder.

The recognition she’s been getting is twofold. Agriculturists appreciate both the scientific method she is using to solve a problem – the decline of hives –and the way she is teaching the public about the problem. She created the 4-H Busy Bees Beekeeping Club.

Recently, she had a 2,500-square-foot pollinator garden installed at Jake’s Branch County Park in Beachwood. It’s located on the plant discovery trail. Another is outside the nature center. Visitors can see it from inside.

Natalie Duddridge from CBS 2 NY visited the Jakes Branch hives.

“She suited up and accompanied me on a hive inspection,” Culbert said. “We were fortunate enough to find the queen on my first try. It was such an incredible opportunity to talk about and provide some insight into nature’s most important pollinator!”

She also did a live interview at NJ12 studios with Lauren Due about honey bees, the industry, native plants and more.

She’s also spending six weeks at the Research Science Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She will be one of the 100 students invited to MIT for a summer science and engineering program that combines course work with hands-on research.

She encourages interested people to follow her progress on Instagram at KT.Bees and youtube.com/channel/ UC1VTjvnWwdJQMSHG2H18FpA

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Improved Hearing For A Healthy Mind

Did you know that better hearing might be a key to better brain health? A growing body of research ties hearing loss to cognitive-decline problems such as dementia. So, let’s take a look at the connections and the importance of regular hearing care.

Both dementia and hearing loss are on the rise. An estimated 55 million people live with dementia, per the World Health Organization, which predicts the rate will reach 139 million in 2025. Hearing loss, estimated at over 1.5 billion youth and adults worldwide, could climb to over 2.5 billion people by 2050.

Older adults with more severe forms of hearing loss have a significantly higher risk of dementia, according to a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health-led study released this year. Researchers uncovered a 61% greater prevalence of dementia compared to those with normal hearing.

The study adds to ever-increasing reports on links between hearing loss and significant dementia risk. It stands apart from some other investigations by having relied not only on in-clinic data but also homebased information — including testing and interviews — comprising a more nationally representative population across a 65-plus

age group.

Like a rising number of studies, the findings also showed potential benefits of better hearing in curbing the dementia threat. According to the investigators, hearing aid use was associated with a 32% lower prevalence of dementia among those with moderate or severe hearing loss.

It’s not quite conclusive that hearing aids prevent or reverse dementia — future research will continue to probe the issue. But it looks promising. In an online report, the investigation’s lead author stated, “This study refines what we’ve observed about the link between hearing loss and dementia and builds support for public health action to improve hearing care access.”

What can you do? Staying sharp and engaged is easier than you think and starts with regular hearing screenings. Whether your hearing seems to be changing or it’s simply been a while since your last checkup, contact our caring team for an evaluation today!

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always here to answer your important hearing care questions. Please contact us today at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

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

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Exploring Ozempic And 8 Natural Alternatives For Weight Loss & Blood Sugar Balance

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

You may have been hearing a lot about a pharmaceutical drug called Ozempic and how it works for weight loss. Known generically as semaglutide, it’s prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes. This med belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and is given by subcutaneous injection.

GLP-1 is a hormone in everyone’s body that helps to regulate (specifically lower) blood sugar levels. By mimicking the action of GLP-1, semaglutide helps to increase insulin secretion which then reduces glucose production in your liver. In doing so, there is less glucose secreted by the liver, and this helps manage blood sugar levels in people who have type 2 diabetes.

I am glad that people are waking up to the idea of balancing blood sugar and insulin, and the more complex idea that cravings can be controlled by working on these mechanisms. I talked about this in my book called Diabetes Without Drugs and used my knowledge to formulate a dietary supplement called GlucoScript.

Prescriptions for Ozempic and other diabetes drugs have increased dramatically due to commercials and promotions about its value for weight loss. You can certainly talk to your physician about it.

Aside from medications, I recommend a ketogenic or keto-carnivore diet to help one reduce weight dramatically and quickly. The ketogenic diet will result in greater weight loss compared to the drugs. The trial I reviewed showed about a 10-pound reduction over 30 - 56 weeks for participants taking the drug. Compare that to a keto diet which might

©2023

give you a 20-pound weight loss over about 6 months to a year. Naturally, the weight loss achieved is contingent on how many cheats you have.

Now let’s talk about a few natural approaches that some people consider. Many of these herbs are in my GlucoScript which I sell at my vitamin shop.

1. Dietary Changes: A low-carb, no refined sugar diet can only help!

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise is a cornerstone of weight management.

3. Cinnamon: It’s not a substitute for blood sugar medication, however some studies suggest it helps. Sprinkle it!

4. Berberine: This herbal has been studied for its potential effects on lowering blood sugar levels and has strong evidence for its use.

5. Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Sometimes used for neuropathy, alpha-lipoic acid has also been studied for its benefit to blood sugar.

6. Banaba Leaf: Provides “corosolic acid” which may improve insulin sensitivity, helping you to use blood sugar more effectively. It blocks the absorption of some carbs in the gut leading to a reduction in blood sugar spikes after eating.

7. Holy Basil: Also known as Tulsi, it increases insulin secretion and improves insulin sensitivity. It reduces cortisol which is a stress hormone associated with weight gain.

8. Resveratrol: It improves insulin sensitivity and activates AMP-activated protein kinase an enzyme that scoops up glucose from the bloodstream.

For a longer version of this article, and more natural remedies that work well, as well as recipes, please visit my website suzycohen.com.

INC.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Should You Appoint Co-Executors In Your Will?

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

As I explain to people when discussing estate planning, one of the reasons you do a Last Will and Testament, and possibly the most important reason, is to provide for the orderly disposition of your assets at the time when you pass away.

A common question that is asked when I am preparing an estate plan is whether someone should appoint more than one person to be their executor. In almost all cases my answer is NO. I do not believe that someone should appoint more than one person to be the executor of their estate.

My reason for this is quite simple. If you appoint two persons to be your co-executors it would require that both of those persons agree on all decisions that need to be made in handling your estate and all documents related to your estate would need to be signed by both persons. In the best-case scenario this can be cumbersome. In many cases, the co-executors do not reside in the same town, which would require that the documents that need to be signed have to be mailed to obtain the necessary two signatures. Of course, this additional mailing would translate into additional costs for the estate.

The problem that we have encountered is what happens when the two co-executors cannot agree on how to settle the estate?

For example, suppose the estate has a house that needs to be sold and the co-executors cannot agree on the sales price. Having the co-executors fighting with each other is not the “orderly disposition of your assets.” If the two co-executors cannot agree on various decisions on behalf of the estate, the only recourse available would be for one of them to go to court and ask a judge to remove the other co-executor. In such a case, a judge will have to choose between the “good” co-executor and the “bad” co-executor. Unfortunately, in many of these cases each co-executor will try to present evidence to the court as to why the other co-executor is the “bad” co-executor. In many cases, the judge will conclude that if the two co-executors cannot agree then it is best to remove them both and appoint an independent person to act as the executor for the estate. (Legally this person would be referred to as an administrator CTA.)

Thus, you could wind up with a perfect stranger handling your estate because your two co-executors could not cooperate with each other. Accordingly, I always urge people not to appoint co-executors but rather to choose the individual they think is best capable of acting as the executor and then naming the other person as an alternate executor in the event the first person is incapable of acting.

Items For Sale

Thule Kayak Rack - Two Hullavators, $750 each. Two crossbars $150 each. 732-673-7072. (32)

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

Model Trains - Large collection of American Flyer and HO trains. Call 732-551-5028 - leave message. (32)

Maple Dining Table - With leaf and 6 chairs. 7'x39" with leaf. Good condition. $1,675. 732657-6166, 732-207-7414. (32)

Golf Clubs - Ladies right hand "Taylormade" with bag, $150. 732-232-5843. (31)

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

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)

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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)

Services Services Services Services

Absolute best home improvements!"Building the shore since 1984" Additions, carpentry, windows & doors, roofing & siding, painting & staining, flooring, kitchens & baths, finished basements, masonry, fencing, custom decks, fully insured, license #13VH11804800. $ave. Call Brien 732-850-5060. (28)

Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs. Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (26)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605. (t/n)

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Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

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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)

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Do You Want Your Car To Look

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

EXPERT WORKMANSHIP

- Carpentry • Decks • Doors

• Windows • Flooring • Vinyl Railings • Tile • New • Repairs Welcomed. Licensed, Insured. 609-384-9030. (32)

ESTATE CLEANOUTS -

Properties, Houses, Attics, Garages, Sheds, Storage Units, ect. Handyman Disposal provided 901a Dumpster Service LLC. Licensed, Insured, call or text Jim 609-335-0330. (27)

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GARDEN COACH

ASSISTS SEN-

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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)

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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)

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PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

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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.

SMALL! (20)

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)

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

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

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

F & G AMES S UDOKU

Across

1 Support that’s of-

ten rigged

5 Role, metaphorically

8 Pair sharing a <3 necklace, probably

12 Instruments in some Gershwin works

15 “I don’t mind __

/ Except as meals. / And the way they feels”: Nash

16 Tabula rasa

18 Joie de vivre

19 Susan who wrote, “The writer’s first job is not to have opinions but to tell the truth”

20 Sources of fleeting joy?

22 “Wrong hand, silly”

26 Active front?

27 Postulant

28 Grace period?

31 “Toodles!”

33 Tree on the Lebanese flag

34 Latin law

35 Place to get high and pass out?

37 Rx writers, often

38 Device that requires spin control

40 Inoculation fluids

41 Literary alter ego

42 Self-consoling sigh

44 Animal in Aboriginal cave paintings

46 Line on a handwriting test

50 One of two tarot card groups

51 Went viral

53 State whose road signs feature 8-Downs

54 Academic term

57 Nice parent

58 Dessert with a high point

59 Son of Hera 60 GRE org.

61 Like a fl y ball to the warning track

Down

1 Safari runners

2 Heterogenous union

3 One working with a dictator

4 Perfectly

5 Lacks options

6 Rose up on stage

7 Leaves in a pot

8 Symbol of 53-Across

9 Was awash in euphoria

10 Study aid

11 Three-part fig.

13 Bag

14 Eyelid issue

17 Make dough or bread

21 Earthenware vessel

23 Bags

24 Breeding grounds

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

25 Clipped

28 Wiped out

29 One having a cow?

30 Not well-done in the least

32 Derived from gold

35 Brandon __: Hilary Swank’s “Boys Don’t Cry” role

36 Tiny tech powering Iron Man and Black Panther’s suits

39 Tours of duty

41 Sweet

43 Fox holes

45 “Mine! Mine! Mine!” criers in “Finding Nemo”

47 Small pouches

48 Poetic contraction

49 Polished

52 Get set

53 Actress Thurman

55 Rowing implement?

56 Many times o’er

CROSSWORD PUZZLE S

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Little Greyson was out enjoying the beach, boardwalk and rides in Point Pleasant Beach for the very first time. The photo was sent in by Travis Verello. The whole family is now headed to Six Flags Great Adventure, courtesy of Jersey Shore Online. Want a chance to win tickets yourself? Email your summer pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get a message from us!

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of july 15 - july 21

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may be feeling like your every move is being watched or that rules are more stringent right now. You can receive favorable results if you continue to put your best foot forward and remain focused on your current projects.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : Remain optimistic and you can discover the hidden benefits. Numerous opportunities could be waiting for you and might help to create something worthwhile out of what may have once seemed like less useful materials.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may be feeling a need to compromise when it comes to disagreements in order to keep the peace. You could be feeling generous towards loved ones or friends. Try not to take good luck or forgiveness for granted if it comes your way.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Try to avoid getting wrapped up in a new romantic entanglement or a get rich quick venture for now. A less emotionally dependent friendship can help create a calming space even in the face of criticism.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : You may be bighearted enough to forgive and forget. Debts could be weighing heavily on your mind right now so it could be best to avoid major purchases until you have things more under control. Be careful to not get distracted.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Words can have more impact than you realize. Sharing wisdom and advice is a real responsibility, be sure you are 100% transparent. There could be someone suspicious of your motives right now

so do your best to reassure them when you can.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may be feeling more in tune recently when it comes to your social instincts and ability to create happiness for yourself and others. Be careful to avoid letting someone else alter your viewpoint with their own agenda.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A sense of purpose may accompany you wherever you go. Your friends or family might not share your passionate ambition and determination for success, but it does not mean they do not respect you and love your enthusiasm.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You cannot evade your obligations, but they do not need to be your only priority. There can be more to life than work; remain upbeat and optimistic. Don’t exaggerate your abilities just to impress someone.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Now may be the time to embrace new people and things. Your social circle could expand exponentially if you participate in community activities or group outings. Focus on innovative ideas and concepts rather than emotional intrigue.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may secretly be harboring romantic feelings for a coworker or friend. Try not to mistake friendly or work-based situations for romantic affection. Remain realistic and be sure you are focused on your job or duties.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Your mind is a tool that can be used any way you might need. Look for reliable information and hammer out some of the details you may need to refine. Try to avoid misunderstandings with your loved ones or coworkers.

MAKE THE MOST OF RIPE, JUICY TOMATOES IN THIS DELICIOUS DISH

By America’s Test Kitchen

TOMATO

SALAD WITH FETA AND CUMIN -YOGURT DRESSING

(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.