2023-07-29 - The Berkeley Times

Battle Of The Zones Game Continues Summer Fun

Grant Will Help Pay For Park Walkway

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – The creation of a walkway around Veterans Park took another step forward now that the township has received a grant from the State Department of Community Affairs for $81,000.

Earlier this year, township officials applied for $125,000. The award of $81,000 was recently reported.

Mayor Carmen Amato said that the township had applied for the grant for a few years but won it this year.

People walk along the roadways and that’s not as safe as if they had a designated trail. He estimated that 100,000 people or more visit the park every year.

By Chris Lundy

BEACHWOOD

–

The year is 2023. A quiet town has been ripped apart into factions battling a never-ending war for dominance.

The field: Birch & Surf Park. The combatants: The residents of the borough of Beachwood. The stakes: bragging rights for a year.

For the third year in a

row, a group of volunteers have organized a softball competition.

There are four teams: Zone A, B, C, and D. This is how Beachwood’s Public Works breaks up the garbage and recycling collection days.

On a Beachwood chat page in 2021, a resident bid everyone good night, but only to Zone

A, because that’s the only zone that matters. This being Jersey, that line did not go without people stepping up for their own zones. This escalated into a softball game to determine which zone ruled. Years later, and that comment is still the reason that people are coming together. The air was heavy

with humidity on the day of the tournament.

Dogs were welcome to sit on the sidelines. Sometimes, designated runners would go through the bases if a hitter wasn’t able to. This year also had a Home Run Derby.

When it came to the Battle of the Zones, the only shots fi red were in

(Game - See Page 5)

“We want to get people off the road,” he said. Part of the payment will come from the grant and some of it will be from the township’s bonding ordinance, where they borrow large sums of money to do various projects.

Councilman Angelo Guadagno said he was happy to hear about this coming to fruition. A few years back, he and other officials walked the park to figure out where the path would go. He said he would also like to see it have solar-powered lighting.

Councilman James Byrnes said that another town built a walkway that had sections donated to the military. He suggested that there could be areas dedicated to local police officers who have passed away.

(Grant - See Page 5)

Behind Every Face Is A Story In Newly Discovered Homeless Camp

By Stephanie Faughnan TOMS RIVER – A clandestine

homeless encamp-

has managed to defy discovery since last October, catching local authorities completely off guard.

The revelation came to light during a recent weekend summer sunset patrol by diligent members of the

Ocean County Air Support Squadron (OASS). From the vantage point of their small aircraft, volunteers took a double take as they gazed down upon the landscape below.

Amidst an area nestled near high tension wires, rows of tents and people moving about revealed a

hidden world that had successfully eluded scrutiny for eight months.

Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy oversees OASS, which serves as the county law enforcement agency’s air wing.

Utilizing their own aircraft, skilled pilots conduct surveillance over waterways,

DIRECT

roads, and wooded regions. Through the submission of photographs, any unusual discoveries are diligently documented.

Mastronardy credited the sharp-eyed team with discovering the hidden encampment, which had been alluded to in a social media

(Homeless - See Page 4)

$1995

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

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

Photo by Chris Lundy

Friendly rivals met up again for the Battle of the Zones.

ment

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

The many faces of the newly discovered homeless encampment.

Homeless:

Continued From Page 1

post that same day. Upon identifying the setup, Toms River Police were notified of the situation.

Local authorities dispatched a targeted group to the camp to engage with them and evaluate their situations. While some expressed resistance to what they perceived as outsider intervention, others hoped to find alternatives to their current living conditions.

In the wake of county officials taking proactive steps to create a homelessness trust fund and task force, the urgency for support became all the more evident.

Homelessness Advocacy

Setting up a community of tents to address shelter isn’t exactly a novel concept for Minister Steve Brigham of Destiny’s Bridge. At the start of the millennium, Brigham began by providing for the needy by offering food and essentials. However, an encounter with a man who asked Brigham for rent money resulted in a more comprehensive approach.

After providing the man with a tent and camping gear, Brigham settled him in Jackson. Two weeks later, the man expressed difficulties fi nding work and a lack of nearby food pantries. Responding to the man’s concerns, Brigham agreed to relocate him and later extended assistance to other homeless individuals he learned were in need.

So began the story of Lakewood’s Tent City, which was ultimately dismantled by authorities. Its occupants received some compensation as others moved on to Howell to another homeless community. Township officials in Howell promised to help them, and then sold that property to a developer, who kicked them off.

The most recently discovered homeless encampment set up by Brigham stands out due to the ages and health of many of its residents, who are living without the comfort

of conventional support systems.

In a social media post earlier this month, Brigham gave the fi rst names of nineteen individuals ranging from ages 28-78 with requests for clothing donations. He also told the story of someone who advocated for a homeless shelter within Ocean County a decade ago for others. Lynn fell upon hard times and came to the encampment as she had nowhere else to live.

Tragically, just two weeks after settling in the camp, Lynn called one of her newfound friends to say she wasn’t feeling well. The next call was from one of Lynn’s family members, informing them that she had passed away in the hospital due to a heart attack.

Brigham easily admits he has little faith in the government. He expressed his concerns regarding the risk of removing people from the tent community in a more recent social media post.

“This treatment of homeless seniors by local and county government is utterly inhumane and honestly, downright shameful,” Brigham said. “While resources are scarce, affordable housing is unavailable, and the wealthy are more concerned about their property values than human lives, the very least government officials ought to do is allow community organizations like ours to assist the poor without interference, in whatever way we are able.”

“It’s like putting a Band-Aid on the whole thing,” Brigham said when interviewed.

“Sure, people will get put up in a hotel for a couple of days or even a couple of weeks. But families don’t always get to stay together. And they can’t bring their animals with them. They’re back on the streets in no time.”

Among the team assembled for the first visit by Toms River Police were plain clothes officers, the Board of Social Services, social workers, and volunteer representatives from organizations such as Just Believe, Inc. Paul Hulse, is CEO of Just Believe, which runs

a Code Blue shelter in Toms River when temperatures drop below freezing points. Hulse said he thought there was a need for his group’s services after reading Brigham’s fi rst post.

“We are also privately funded through private grants from the state, county, and Toms River,” shared Hulse. “We also receive support from a number of private businesses.”

Hulse said his organization works with various non-profits to secure assistance. The list of affiliates includes mental health professionals, veteran groups, and affordable housing entities.

Who Are They?

Before word got out that authorities knew of the camp’s existence, Brigham had already agreed to allow this reporter to visit the camp. However, the scheduled appointment was moved up by a few days in a matter of minutes.

“I just got a call from people over at the camp,” Brigham shared. “The police were there with a bunch of people. They’re planning on coming back tomorrow.”

Brigham’s tone made it difficult to discern whether he was aggravated by the perceived invasion or even a bit worried - or perhaps a mix of both emotions. Nevertheless, the decision was an easy one and the appointment was scheduled for early the next morning.

Along the unpaved and twisty road through untamed nature, a sense of secrecy enveloped the surroundings. It was early morning and as the camp came into view, the only living creatures around were a playful flock of different colored chickens. Everyone else was tucked away in the tents lining two sides, creating a pathway winding through the heart of the camp.

“No roosters,” offered Brigham. “They make too much noise. The chickens are good for getting rid of the tics.”

Brigham fi rst pointed to some water jugs that he fills regularly and then sighed as he looked at the pile of black garbage bags. He commented on the inevitability of garbage and a throw away society.

The unmistakable upset in Brigham’s voice was palpable as he began moving from tent to tent to check on those he considered part of his ministry. He explained that they each had a chance to share their stories if they wished. Despite the option of anonymity, a surprising number willingly posed for quick portraits, unreservedly offering their full names to accompany their narratives.

Bill Honeker, 63, originally from Brick, emerged from his tent, ready to provide Brigham with the details of the previous day. His bare torso revealed a chiseled sixpack, only marred by a surgical scar from a liver transplant. Fred, a sweet boxer, stood faithfully next to his master.

Honeker said he rides his bicycle to the gym regularly to work out and then showers after he’s done there. Meanwhile, a great deal of Honeker’s Social Security benefits goes to paying for his medication.

“Between food and my medication, there’s nothing left to pay for rent,” shared Honeker.

A former dock builder and plumber, Honeker said he once owned his own home, a boat, and a truck. He lost it all after a bad breakup with a girl he was supposed to marry.

“They told us yesterday that they’re trying to get everybody out of here as soon as they can,” Honeker said. “They want to level everything out and get everyone in temporary placement.”

Honeker was visibly upset as he recalled the time he and Fred were separated when Honeker landed in a temporary shelter in Asbury Park.

“Steve helped me out and I got reunited with my dog,” Honeker said.

“I’ve been here since November.”

Originally from Beachwood, 55-yearold Victoria O’Connor suffered a brain aneurysm that left her paralyzed on her right side. She laughed when asked

(Homeless - See Page 14)

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

Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

Amidst an area nestled near high tension wires, rows of tents and people moving about revealed a hidden world of a homeless encampment.

Game: Continued From Page 1

the form of smack talk.

It was all fun and games. For example, a pitcher psyched out one batter to get a strike off him. The hitter nailed the second pitch and brought someone home. The hitter felt ambitious and tried to run for another base but got tagged by the pitcher. Then, they high-fived each other after the play.

A good play was congratulated no matter what team it was. If something bad happened, everyone laughed together.

In the fi rst Battle of the Zones, Zone C was victorious. In 2022, Zone B took the title. This year, Zone A rose to the top. Perhaps next year is Zone D’s turn.

Other Nearby Events

The Battle of the Zones is one of many family events taking place in Bayville, Beachwood, and Ocean Gate during the second half of summer.

Grant:

Continued From Page 1

New Clerk

In other news, Karen Stallings was appointed to the position of Township Clerk and Registrar of Vital Statistics for a three-year term ending June 30, 2026. She was promoted from her position as deputy clerk.

The Soulsational wellness festival will take place at Veterans Park in Bayville on July 29 starting at 11 a.m.

The open air market will have goods and services, food trucks, and more. It’s a family friendly event with activities for all. There is free admission with free music and demonstrations.

Monday evenings, also at Birch & Surf Park, are part of the weekly Community Family Nights from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

A limited amount of free t-shirts are available for kids. There’s also weekly bingo, crafts, prizes, games, a basketball challenge and more. For information, contact groma@comcast.net

Ocean Gate Day starts at 9 a.m. on August 12. It’s a free-to-attend festival with vendors around the area of Wildwood Pavilion. At noon, there is the famous Cardboard Boat Race where people build boats out of cardboard and tape and see how they fare in the river.

Stop by the race webpage at oceangatepolicedepartment.org/cardboard-boat-race

Former clerk Beverly Carle retired this year after 28 years of service, 21 of them as township clerk.

Generator And Elevator

The township awarded a contract to Scalfo Electric for $77,000 to install a generator at the Holiday City Community Center. It was one of two larger-ticket items at a recent Township Council meeting. The township will also be rehabilitating

to register for the boat race, or stop down at Ocean Gate PD to pick up a registration form.

The 7th annual Beachwood Community Day will be held at Birch & Surf Park on August 26 from 12 to 4 p.m. There will be vendors, giveaways, games, inflatables, pony rides, petting zoo, live music, food and more.

Summer Concerts

Wednesday, August 23, beginning at 5 p.m. at Veterans Park in Bayville, will be the annual “Night Out Against Crime and Night of Two Headliners,” Mayor Carmen Amato said. “The Berkeley Township Police Department will be on hand along with our township fi rst aid squads, township fi re departments and other public safety agencies to greet residents and show the different types of equipment that they utilize. All of these public safety agencies will have their vehicles and equipment on display, as well. Our DARE Program will also be there with games and prizes for the

the elevator in Town Hall for $133,786.

Amato said the elevator is from the 1970s.

Byrnes, who is a member of the State’s Elevator, Escalator And Moving Walkway Mechanics Licensing Board, helped negotiate this project.

Township Engineer John LeCompte said Byrnes’ help probably saved the township $100,000.

children to enjoy.”

The fi rst headliner will be at 6 p.m. Gerard Esposito celebrates the music from Broadway to Vegas, followed by Garden State Radio, a pop and rock band playing hits from the 80s, 90s and today. “This band will thrill the audience with the music from Pat Benatar to Katy Perry; from Michael Jackson to Journey and many more,” Amato said.

The final performances of the free summer concert series will be on Saturday, September 9 for Berkeley Township Community Pride Day. Community Pride Day runs from 2 - 9 p.m. and recognizes the original Founder’s Day and anniversary of the town. There will be a circle of vendors, crafters, and local service groups with tables selling food and showcasing their products and services.

At 5 p.m., the township will recognize the 22nd Anniversary of the September 11th attacks and will host a 9/11 Memorial and Remembrance Ceremony. All are encouraged to join the ceremony at the memorial near the stage.

The fi rst show will be Stiletto & the Saxman at 6 p.m. “This entertaining act delivers a great show singing hits of doo-wop, the Rat Pack, popular standards and more.” At 7:30 p.m., The Infernos Band will come on, described as “America’s #1 Show Band and the area’s premier live performance group singing four decades of music.”

Fireworks will close out the show at 9 p.m. Refreshments are always sold by local non-profit groups and organizations that use these concerts as their fundraisers.

Students Invest In Their Future

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY - Berkeley Township Elementary School students took

the Stock Market Challenge and won.

They were asked to invest $100,000 in imaginary money. Whoever beat the S&P

500 by the highest percentage would win. They beat it by 4 percent. The next team was 2.9 percent.

House Fire Claims Owner

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – A house fire, possibly caused by an electrical malfunction, led to the death of the owner.

Janet Conroy, 77, was found by fi refighters searching the house at 1 Miles Pond Road. The fi re broke out in the afternoon of July 20.

Investigators looking into the cause of the fi re said that an electrical issue in the dishwasher couldn’t be ruled out.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer acknowledged the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Berkeley Township Bureau of Fire Prevention, for their combined and cooperative efforts in connection with this fi re suppression and investigation.

V.F.W. Post 10185 News

By Past Post Commander James Egan

BERKELEY - The next meeting of Silver/ Holiday V.F.W. Post 10185 will be held on Thursday, August 3 at 1 p.m. at the Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse, 145 Westbrook Drive. We hold our meetings on the fi rst Thursday of every month. We meet in the daytime, so you do not have to drive at night.

To join our post, just bring a copy of your Discharge (DD-214) to our meeting and you will be signed up right away. You’ll receive a hardy welcome and refreshments before the meeting. You will also have a chance to talk with fellow veterans and make new friends.

Anyone needing transportation to our meetings can call Past Commander James

Egan at 732-341-4905 or one of the other Officers, and we will gladly pick you up and take you back home after the meeting. Remember if you hear of any Post member passing away or being in the hospital, call any officer and let him know.

Friday, August 4, The Vietnam Conflict began in 1964.

Monday, August 14, Japan surrendered in 1945.

The VFW would like you to drop your old and faded flags off at either H. C. S. Clubhouse (Main Building), S. R. P. W., S. R. P. N., S. R. P. E., S. R. P. Westerly, and Holiday City Berkeley Clubhouses. God bless America and God bless our troops.

Fly the flag every day, weather permitting.

Holiday Craft/Vendor Fair

TOMS RIVER – Save the date! November 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The American Legion Auxiliary located at 2025 Church

Road will be hosting their Annual Holiday Fair. Vendor space still available if interested contact Laurinda at 732-272-7552

Pictured is Paige Villano with the governing body. Not pictured is Mikayla Switaj.

Bill Would Give Farm Workers Overtime, Protections

Capitol Comments

Senator Robert Menendez

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both-D-N.J.) joined Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and other Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Fairness for Farm Workers Act. This legislation would update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fairer wages and compensation. The bill would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide overtime and additional minimum wage protections for farm workers.

“Farm workers play a vital role in driving our economy and keeping Americans fed, and as such, they deserve the fair wages and just compensation their hard work calls for,” said Sen. Menendez. “At a time when loud and angry voices insist on erasing the backbreaking work our domestic and agricultural workers do each and every day, legislation like the Fairness for

Farm Workers Act ensures those who fuel the American agricultural industry on fields across the country are protected and equitably compensated.”

“It is an injustice that the millions of farm workers feeding our nation lack basic protections afforded to nearly every other American worker,” said Sen. Booker. “I have seen firsthand their crucial contributions to our country, and know that too many work for low pay and in dangerous conditions because of a lack of federal protections. This legislation will ensure farm workers receive the fair wages and overtime pay they deserve by putting an end to their exclusion from our labor laws, ending decades of this discriminatory policy.”

The Fairness for Farm Workers Act would update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fair wages and compensation. 85 years ago, the Fair Labor Standards Act established federal standards for minimum wage and overtime pay but excluded millions of domestic and agricultural workers who were overwhelm-

ingly people of color. Although farm workers gained some minimum wage protections in 1966, exclusions on overtime pay persist. This bill would implement overtime pay over the course of four years and bring greater equity to the American agricultural industry. As of 2020, over a trillion dollars of America’s GDP and one in ten jobs are linked to agriculture.

Specifically, the Fairness for Farm Workers Act:

Requires time-and-a-half overtime pay for all agricultural workers, with additional compliance time for small farms.

Removes exemptions to overtime for agriculture generally and ends the exemptions for overtime and minimum wage requirements for certain small farms, hand harvest laborers, non-local minors, and range livestock production. Maintains the family farm exemption to these requirements.

Removes exemptions to overtime for workers employed in irrigation projects, livestock auctions incidental to farm work, small country grain elevators, certain sugar processing, certain types of intra-state transportation and preparation for transportation of fruits and vegetables,

cotton ginning, and cotton compressing.

The legislation is endorsed by over 130 organizations including United Farm Workers (UFW), NAACP, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Latino Justice PRLDEF, Farm Labor Organizing Committee, National Center for Law and Economic Justice, Legal Aid Justice Center, Hispanic Federation, Coalition on Human Needs, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries, National Organization for Women, Migrant Justice, Southern Poverty Law Center, and Equal Rights Advocates.

In May, Sens. Menendez and Booker, alongside several Senate colleagues, sent letters to nine companies that contracted with Packers Sanitation Services, Inc. (PSSI), which the Department of Labor found were unlawfully employing migrant child labor at these host companies’ facilities. In the letters, the senators ask each host company to detail the changes to their contractor monitoring and procurement processes they plan to implement or have made since the discovery of PSSI’s use of child labor to ensure this never happens again.

Access To Behavioral Health Care In K-12 Schools To Expand

ment for these services.

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – As part of his efforts to address youth mental health needs both at the state and national levels, Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill (A-3334) expanding expenses that New Jersey’s K-12 public schools may be reimbursed for in regards to behavioral health services that are provided to students and their families who are Medicaid recipients.

“It’s undeniable that many young people are facing mental health challenges right now and would benefit from the support of compassionate, trained professionals,” said Governor Murphy. “Through the work of my Administration, in collaboration with local, state, and national partners, we are taking decisive action to address the mental health needs of our youth. By ensuring schools will be reimbursed for the provision of behavioral health care services to students covered by Medicaid, this legislation will advance our ongoing efforts to expand affordability and access to the mental health support New Jersey children need.”

The Division of Medical Assis -

tance and Health Services (DMAHS) within the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) and its contracted managed care organizations will be responsible for reimbursing local education agencies for the provision of behavioral health services covered under Medicaid to students who are eligible Medicaid beneficiaries. This builds upon the impact of programs like the Special Education Medicaid Initiative (SEMI), in which public school districts are reimbursed a portion of the costs associated with providing health-related services to Medicaid-eligible students in their special education programs.

The covered services offered either in-person or via telehealth must be provided by either a licensed medical practitioner or local education agency approved as a Medicaid provider. Schools are allowed to submit a request for reimbursement through Medicaid if they are unable to be reimbursed through a legally liable third party.

With this authority, DHS will begin seeking federal approvals for this program. Once the program is approved over the course of the next few years, DMAHS, along with the New Jersey Departments of Education and Treasury, will assist schools in implementing a plan to submit Medicaid claims for reimburse -

“In the midst of a youth mental health crisis, ease of access to emotional, behavioral, and mental health supports and services are critical to youth wellbeing and parent peace of mind,” said Department of Children and Families Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer. “The ability to expand these services into schools through Medicaid reimbursement reduces barriers to students accessing support delivered by their district. Services provided through DCF’s Children’s System of Care have long been on the Medicaid platform, and expansion of that coverage to district-driven mental health services helps to enhance the existing continuum for students and their families.”

The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759 Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net

Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

How Many Hands Have Touched Your Food?

The inflation spreading through the country is hitting everyone really hard where it hurts the mostgroceries. I usually stick to store brands and I still get sticker shock. However, it’s not surprising.

Think, for a minute, about how many people are involved in getting food to your table.

Now let’s think about how much money each of those people are making.

Let’s start with something simple, like apples. Starting on the farm, I imagine that only the owners and a few supervisors are making a living wage. People getting their hands dirty might not be. A lot of them are probably undocumented or migrant workers. There are cases of children working in

farms and factories, even in the U.S., so I wouldn’t be surprised if something you ate in the last week was harvested by a 12-year-old. Not to mention the literal slave labor that takes place around the world.

The apples might be bagged up by the pound. The bags were created by someone, and the oil industry brings us the plastic. Someone also had to design the logo and lettering on the bag.

Food inspectors are probably (hopefully) involved at some point. I had a friend who used to work at a lab where she would take something like a potato chip and run it through tests to determine if the ingredient label was telling the truth.

Then, the apples have to be loaded on a truck and driven to a distribution center.

The distributor then sends it to your grocery store. That involves drivers. And mechanics. It also includes gas station workers and the entire oil industry (again). Then, a grocery store clerk puts them out on display for you to buy.

This doesn’t include all the people involved in logistics, inventory, and accounting –the behind the scenes stuff. Those apples went through dozens of hands before reaching your table (that’s why you should always wash your produce!).

How many dollars were spent? How many people were paid?

When you think of it that way, it’s amazing that apples are $2-3 a pound. The only way for everyone involved in the process to actually make money is to

sell a huge quantity of it.

And all of this for apples. Now, imagine if the apple is an ingredient in something, like cereal. Then, there are even more workers for each ingredient.

You might not know this, but a lot of grocery stores hire predominantly part time workers. That way, they don’t have to pay health insurance (because in this country, the only people who have health insurance are those with full time jobs).

Grocery stores also hire merchandisers. I did that job for a bit, when my daughter was a baby. We were a separate company, and would drive out to grocery stores all over New Jersey for a week or so at a time. We would take everything off the shelf, (sometimes) clean the shelf, (sometimes) check

Letters To The Editor

Letters To The Editor

energy options are being crammed down the throats of the American public.

The letter in your May 13, 2023 edition (“GOP Spread Lies About Offshore Wind To Protect Big Oil Companies”) from a long list made up mostly of never before heard from faceless supposedly organizations is an example of how many available

Accordingly, let’s examine just a could have the known reasons that encourage care and research into the proposed alternative pushed by this letter … offshore wind power.

The New Jersey coastline provides a major route for birds, fish and marine mammals for their semi-annual migrations.

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The Berkeley Time s 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.

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

We are aware that over 300 dead whales have been found in the New York bight in a fairly short period of time.

What effects have construction involving offshore wind had on those whales and dolphins? Little research has been done and cross checked on these biological events.

What about proofs received about other offshore wind projects around the work, and many on land too, that have shown that birds of many species do not fare well when they have to fly through huge blades of wind machines set several hundred feet above the water?

Then we have the economic costs of offshore wind. Due in no small part, the salt air environment above the ocean is no place for heavy duty equipment.

Those of you who have a shore property or keep a boat at the shore are well aware of the incredibly corrosive effects of salt

expiration dates, and stock the products in a new location. And the biggest scam was that if no grocery store hired us that week, we filed for unemployment for that time period!

Some companies have their delivery people do merchandising for their own products. Companies buy space on a shelf, sometimes entire sections, to display only their products.

Customers want low prices. Obviously. So the grocery store has to figure out the sweet spot to be able to pay for the product, their own employees, utilities and taxes and everything else while still making it cheap enough for you to buy.

When the prices of everything started going up, it was not a surprise to me. There are so many people involved

in making a pound of apples that I’m amazed they are so cheap. During those early times of COVID, the system broke down and we started to realize just how important the supply chain really is.

There are dozens of people involved in producing something as simple as produce – and most of them are not making a living wage. Some of these companies are starting to realize the value of their supply chain, so they are paying better salaries. While everyone else was up in arms about the increase in food costs, I shrugged my shoulders and said “It was good while it lasted.”

Chris Lundy News Editor

infused air and water. Those corrosive effects and the fact that when men work in and around the ocean, miles from shore, costs rise exponentially. Nowhere in that letter do the writers take those dramatically higher costs into account.

But you will get stuck, readers, you will get stuck. Right in the pocketbook just the way elitists normally stick it to you!

Other offshore wind projects have proved out the fact that offshore wind generates far more than electricity when there is sufficient wind but not too much.

What else could the offshore wind mills generate other than electricity?

Far larger electrical bills for the poor souls living around that particular offshore wind facility and that would mean customers of PSEG, Atlantic City Electric, Jersey Central and, possibly, Long Island since PSEG operates Long Island Power. If you

read the backs of your electricity bills you will see the rates per kilowatt hour broken out to show the costs of generating the electricity and the costs of transmitting the power to you. My latest PSEG bill shows the generation costs are $0.04 per kilowatt hour. That charge is a good deal less than charged by other utilities around the country. Why might that be, you might ask. The answer is simple. In PSEG territory over 85% of power is generated in nuclear generating plants and the rest are mostly natural gas fired plants of one type or another.

Now compare the generation costs for offshore wind with your current sources. Offshore wind averages $0.40 per KWh not the $0.04 that I am paying today. THAT’S 10 TIMES MORE!

Maybe offshore wind is too environmentally risky and too expensive to be considered at this time.

There are thousands of

other scientists who are not convinced that there are unusual environmental effects occurring at this time. Many point out that there are over 900 confirmed cycles that Earth is involved in at this time and none of those cycles suggest a quick end to our Earth. In fact, after Al Gore thumped his political drum years ago with dire threats of doom he called the risks “global warming” only to discover some years later that Earth is currently in a cooling cycle so the Worriers quickly checked out of “global warming” and climbed in bed with “climate change” instead. Remember that? But, heck, we’ve had climate change for millennia. Summer, fall, winter and spring.

We have enough to face at this time without throwing Trillions of Dollars at what just might be a phantom!

Capt. Lindsay Fuller Medford

2023 D.A.R.E. Program Role Models

BERKELEY – At a recent Township Council meeting, the Mayor and Council recognized the 2023 D.A.R.E. ProgramRole Models.

“The D.A.R.E. program is an important initiative that aims to educate and empower young individuals to make healthy choices. This program not only focuses on drug prevention but also addresses other issues such as bullying, violence, and decision-making,” Mayor Carmen Amato said.

“This year we had many students who excelled not only within the D.A.R.E program but overall, as a student and we decided to recognize these students as the D.A.R.E. Role Models for the 2023 School year,” said D.A.R.E. Officer Mikki Baranyay.

“The role models who were chosen, inspired and motivated others students through their actions and behavior in and out of the classroom,” said Chief Kevin Santucci.

They served as an example of what is possible, showing their peers a path to succeed and grow. These students possessed qualities such as integrity, compassion, and lead by example.

“Every one of these students has proved what it takes to be a great leader and someone their friends can look up to for advice and help when they are in need. The Township Council and I congratulate each and every one of them,” said Council President John Bacchione.

7th Annual Beachwood Community Day

BEACHWOOD – Join Mayor Roma for the 7th annual Beachwood Community Day at Birch & Surf Park on August 26 from 12 to 4 p.m.

Enjoy vendors, giveaways, games, inflatables, pony rides, petting zoo, live music, food and much more!

Nature Walks At Double Trouble

BAYVILLE – Join a park naturalist for a 1-to-2-mile nature walk on July 29 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m., July 30 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Ages 10 and up. Held sun or very light drizzle. Steady rain or thunder cancels.

No pets. Walk will start outside village restroom building.

Reservations not required – you can just show up. For additional information call 732-341-6662.

First Responders Participate In “Touch A Truck”

BERKELEY – On July 17, the ESY Program welcomed the men and women in uniform for their “Touch a Truck” event! The students had a great day learning all about our servicemen and servicewomen.

Photo courtesy Berkeley Township

Sentimental Cruisers Car Show

The History Of Cranberries In Ocean

BERKELEY – In three weeks, Double Trouble State Park village historian will be discussing the history of cranberries in Ocean County and Double Trouble village for the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County. Hear how the county went from being the number one grower of cran-

County

berries 150 years ago to having no significant commercial cranberry industry today. Event takes place on August 8 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, 1623 Whitesville Road, Toms River. Register at go.rutgers.edu/Cranberries. For questions, call 732-505-3671.

St. Stephen’s Annual Dignified Junque Flea Market

BERKELEY – Council President President John Bacchione and Mayor Carmen Amato stopped by the Sentimental Cruisers Car Show at Veterans Park. Despite the season-

Photo courtesy Berkeley Township

ally warm weather, it was a great turnout of residents and participants. Special thanks to Club President Bill Moglia for a job well done.

Memorial Garden For Pets

WHITING – Memorial Garden for Pets is now available for the cremains of your beloved pets at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180

Route 539, Whiting. Call the Church Office at 732-350-2121 on Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for details.

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Annual Dignified Junque Flea Market is coming on September 2 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Come and join to buy housewares, clothes, books and more, baked goods, toys, fur-

niture, mechanical and electric, frames, toys, boutique and more. Come and see! Call the church office from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday for more details.

National Night Out

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – South Toms River Police department and South Toms River governing body proudly celebrate National Night Out on August 1 from 4 to 8 p.m. at South Toms River Elementary School. Parking available at the front of the school; Brandies lot will be closed to vehicle traffic.

There will be free giveaways from your local businesses and the fi rst 500 attendees receive a reusable Wawa tote with raffle tickets.

Come out, meet your neighbors, fi rst responders, elected officials and have a great night of fun.

Fire Prevention Poster Contest Winners Recognized

BERKELEY – At a recent Township Council meeting, the Mayor and Council recognized the winners of the 2023 Annual Fire Prevention poster contest winners. The theme was “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.”

This year’s contest challenged Berkeley’s school aged students to make posters understanding the importance of having a plan in place, so that family members can get out quickly in the event of a fi re.

“The importance of Fire Safety in Berkeley Township is a big priority with Mayor Amato and with the Township Council.”

Photo courtesy Berkeley Township

Council President John Bacchione said.

“Having a working smoke and carbon monoxide detector in your home will alert residents to get out safely before it’s too late.” Mayor Amato said.

“The winners of the contest did an excellent job depicting their planned escape route to safety. I commend all participants.”

Council President John Bacchione said. Having a plan is key to being fi re safe.

“On behalf of Berkeley Township, I also congratulate all on a job well done in promoting Fire Safety.” Mayor Amato concluded.

Relay For Life Of Berkeley/Lacey

BAYVILLE – Relay for Life will be on August 12 to 13 from 12 p.m. to 7 a.m. at Veterans Park, 9 Tilton Boulevard, Bayville.

Relay For Life is the world’s largest volunteer-based fundraising event. For more

than 36 years, communities across the world have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change.

For more information, contact Robyn Griffith at rnofgnt@yahoo.com or 848-333-7318.

New Officer Sworn In

OCEAN GATE – On July 12, Mayor Robert Curtin and the Borough Council had the privilege of administering the oath of office to Sarah Nelson, the newest member

They

Substitutes Wanted For Berkeley Schools

BERKELEY – The Berkeley Township School District is looking for substitute teachers. The rate of pay is $105/day. If you have 60 college credits you are eligible to substitute in Berkeley Township Schools.

To apply, visit btboe.org. Click on: Board of Education; Click on: Board Documents & Resources; Click on: Employment Opportunities. Complete an Applitrack application.

Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – The South Toms River Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival hosted by South Toms River first responders

will be on October 8 from 12 to 9 p.m. at Mathis Plaza. Enjoy craft beer, food trucks, and fi reworks.

Photo courtesy Ocean Gate Police of the Ocean Gate Police Department.

extend a warm welcome to Officer Nelson and convey their best wishes for her success in her role!

Officers Recognized For Heroic Actions

OCEAN GATE – Three Ocean Gate officers were recognized at a recent meeting for their actions on July 4 in response to a reported child in jeopardy under the Wild-

Cardboard Boat Race

OCEAN GATE – The Cardboard Boat Race is back! The 2023 Cardboard Boat Race will be held during Ocean Gate Day on August 12.

Registration starts at 10 a.m., Race begins at 12 p.m. at Wildwood Pavilion. Stop by the race webpage at oceangatepolicedepartment.org/cardboard-boat-race to

register for the boat race, or stop down at Ocean Gate PD to pick up a registration form. They also want to thank Jersey Shore Supplements in Toms River for sponsoring the race awards and Rosie’s Ocean Gate for sponsoring the event!

If you have any questions, reach out to Ptl. Rich Zonin at Rzonin@oceangatepd.org.

School District Seeking Behavioral Disabilities Teacher

BERKELEY – The Berkeley Township School District is currently accepting application for a Behavioral Disabilities Teacher vacancy. Visit the district website btboe.org

and click on Board of Education > Board Documents and resources > Employment Opportunities > Vacancies > Elementary School Teaching.

Photo courtesy Ocean Gate wood Avenue pier.

Pictured left to right, Detective Steve Shan, Patrolman Rich Zonin, Patrolman Andrew Welsh.

Homeless: Continued From Page 4

if she immigrated from England prior to moving to Ocean County.

“After my aneurysm, I started to have the accent,” chuckled O’Connor. “I wish it was Irish instead.”

O’Connor said she spent two and a half years in rehabilitation to recover from her aneurysm. After she moved in with her brother, O’Connor stated that she was tricked into leaving because of addiction issues. Although now sober for four years, O’Connor spent some time living outside the Lacey Library, facing daily interactions with the police.

A year ago, Brigham extended a lifeline by providing O’Connor with a tent, giving her a place to call her own.

Two of the tents occupied within the encampment provide shelter for families who lost their homes when the Surf and Stream Campground owners sold their property to the county government. The new owner of that Manchester property had big plans for developing it, but the county was able to buy it and make it open space. Either way, the people were kicked out.

Three cots fit together like a puzzle piece in the tent occupied by the Jamison family. Frances, 64, said she and her family lived at Surf and Stream for 19 years. A thin tube inserted into the frail woman’s nostrils led to an oxygen concentrator hooked up to a generator.

Frances, who is battling COPD and a kidney blockage, said that although she and her 72-year-old husband, Robert are separated, he lives with her as her caretaker. The couple’s 37-year-old son William nervously caressed Lulu, the family’s devoted English bulldog who was somehow squeezed into the tight space.

While mental health challenges prevent William from working, he also admitted he wanted to be there to help his ailing mother. Frances interjected by proudly calling her son a “Mama’s Boy.”

Kelly Forcier, 57, also came from the Surf and Stream campgrounds and is situated in a tent near the Jamison family. While she isn’t always hooked up to oxygen, she also relies on the generators to provide it to her when she needs it.

Despite his knowledge of the impending shut down of Surf and Stream, Forcier said the manager encouraged her to buy a new camper. COPD is just one of Forcier’s medical issues that have contributed to her totally disabled designation. Two months ago, Forcier found out there was a place for her within the encampment.

“We tried asking for help while we were there (Surf and Stream),” Forcier said. “They were going to give me a week in a hotel room. I get Social Security and could afford a hotel room through the winter, but then where? What about food?”

A white haired man with an air of distinction couldn’t say enough about how fortunate he was to fi nd a home within the encampment. Morrow Hayes, 78, said he earned an MBA from Wharton School of Business and had a flourishing career as a commercial real estate developer.

As Hayes held onto his cherished pup, Brutus, he said that he doesn’t know what

he’ll do if the encampment shuts down. He agreed to go with the social services team to the hospital to get checked out. Hayes called Brigham to pick him up upon his release from the medical facility.

“I’ve been here several months,” shared Hayes. “This would be catastrophic if things are shut down. It’s well run with no crazy behavior.”

One of the other community members walked past Hayes to agree with him. He also whispered that Hayes sometimes gets confused and can’t always fi nd his way back to his tent.

Katie Grow, 68, moved from Glen Ridge to Beachwood a couple of decades ago. Glen Ridge is an affluent community with a median income of $243,000. Katie had a booming career doing ad sales when her life changed.

Rather than speak within the confi nes of the tent she shares with her family, Katie motioned to a tent reminiscent of a small conference room with four chairs and a long table. Apparently, earlier rains seeped through as the seat was more than a little wet as the interview commenced.

“I’m not scared of hard work,” Katie asserted. “My husband and I raised our family and made plenty of money. But we didn’t save for a rainy day – we were busy taking care of other people.”

A philosophical and fiercely articulate woman, Katie plans to write a book about her experiences. It won’t be one that focuses on the “woe is me.” After all, Katie invokes a daily mantra that she says comes from the lyrics of Stevie Wonder’s “In the Key of Life.”

“You know sometime in life’s hate and troubles, can make you wish you were born in another time and space,” paraphrased Katie. “But you can bet your life…that God knew exactly where he wanted you to be placed.”

Katie said that she lost her job after doctors gave her opiates for intractable pain and she became addicted to them. She lives at the camp with her husband, Dennis, Sr. and their son, Dennis, Jr., who has some mental health issues. The family also has two aging cocker spaniels from the same litter – one with a visible tumor on its back.

“We’re all living on my $753 check each month,” Katie said. “Where else can we go?”

The snapshot of the residents within the encampment are enough to cause anyone to lose sleep. Many of the people said they already felt let down by some of the agencies that showed up to help them. They worry that alternatives to their current conditions could fi nd them separated from their families or forced to give up their loyal pets.

And, then there’s the problem of anything less than permanent placement. No one appeared to have family or friends to turn to – as those options had already been discounted.

Ocean County Commissioner Bobbi Jo Crea, who initiated the homelessness task force and fund, revealed the level of compassion she feels for every person without a roof over their heads.

“We’ve begun the fi rst steps to working on this issue,” said Crea. “Our plan is to get input from the various agencies and nonprofits to point people in a direction that offers them the help they need.”

211

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

• Hip Arthroscopy

• Ankle Arthroscopy

• Robotic total knee arthroplasty

MD & RESIDENCY: Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine

FELLOWSHIP: New England Baptist Hospital

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

Rechargeable Versus Battery Operated Hearing Aids

The majority of my patients (80%) prefer the convenience of not having to replace batteries every 3-7 days along with opening and closing the battery door on a daily basis. The newer lithium-ion batteries will typically give you 20 hours of charge and you should rarely run out of charge while wearing the hearing aids throughout the day. You will have the option of choosing either a “standard” charger or “premium” charger. Always choose the premium charge because if you lose electricity in your home, the charger has a 2-3-day reserve charge. Rechargeable hearing aids are extremely moisture resistant so sweating is generally not an issue. For many years, those individuals wearing hearing aids with disposable batteries were subject to moisture seeping into the battery door and corroding the inside of the battery door and eventually screwing up the circuit. These issues are practically eliminated with rechargeable

hearing aids. Some individuals with severe to profound hearing losses still require the use of “large” 675 batteries, although there are some high powered rechargeable BTEs. For experiencing hearing aid users who have been wearing hearing aids for many years, they may continue to replace their batteries on a weekly basis. For those that travel frequently, having to lug around a “charger” in the suitcase may not be preferred to have a few packs of 312 hearing aid batteries.

In my opinion, the vast majority should consider switching over to rechargeable hearing aid systems for improved reliability and cost savings in not having to purchase batteries all of the time.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to answer your questions about hearing health care issues. Please feel free to contact us at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or Manahawkin (609-978-8946).

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!

Thyroid Support Group

WHITING – Thyroid Support Group will meet on August 14 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting. Information and support for thyroid issues will be shared.

If you need directions, call the church office at 732-350-2121 on Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Call the Facilitator Stefanie at 732-350-2904.

Hospice Volunteers Needed

OCEAN COUNTY – Compassionate Care Hospice/Amedisys needs volunteers interested in walking along side another. Requirements: compassion and a loving heart! There is training for you and you will become part of a team of professionals who

walk this special journey with another. You will be able to give a patient companionship or a family member respite. If you are interested please call Kathleen O’Connell at 914-275-5766 or Kathleen.oconnell@ cchnet.net.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Anatomy And Function Of The Thyroid Gland - A Pharmacist’s Perspective

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

I used to have hypothyroidism about 15 years ago, and I fixed myself. Ever since I’ve been okay! It dawned on me today while talking with a neighbor that she actually has hypothyroidism too, but her lab tests are considered normal for the most part, so today, let’s dive into the remarkable thyroid gland. It’s a small but powerful player in our overall health. Located just below the Adam’s apple and resembling a butterfly, the thyroid gland measures only about 2 inches in length but carries significant responsibilities. It acts as a conductor, harmonizing various bodily functions and regulating your metabolism. It helps you feel warm and plays a role in hair and nail growth. If you have hypothyroidism, you will not be able to lose weight no matter how hard you try.

Named for its shield-like shape, the thyroid gland was studied and described in medical literature for centuries. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that its role in metabolism was confirmed. The thyroid gland secretes hormones like Triiodothyronine (T3), Thyroxine (T4), and Calcitonin.

T3 and T4 control our metabolic rate, influencing everything from heart rate to calorie burning. If you often feel cold, you may be low in thyroid hormone. When these hormones are balanced, we feel energetic, our metabolism functions optimally, and our hair, eyebrows, and nails grow beautifully. Imbalances can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Worse, if left untreated, hypothyroidism may contribute to OCD, depression, anx-

iety and brain fog. These conditions will get treated with psychiatric medications instead of what’s really needed, natural thyroid hormone replacement!

The thyroid gland is part of the larger endocrine system, closely coordinated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Together, they form the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, which maintains thyroid hormone levels. Disruptions to this axis can result in thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism, characterized by reduced thyroid function, can cause fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, results from the overproduction of thyroid hormone and may lead to rapid heart rate, weight loss, and feeling hot. Trouble is that a TSH lab test won’t usually detect this. I can tell you exactly what tests with resources provided at my website suzycohen.com.

Understanding the thyroid gland’s anatomy and function is crucial for managing all sorts of signs and symptoms in your body. As a thyroid thriver, I’ve become a bit of a warrior to help others find the root cause of their problems when lab tests don’t! You probably know about my best-selling book on Amazon called “Thyroid Healthy” which is intended to help you navigate this condition and find appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, the thyroid gland is a small but essential part of our body. Its optimal function contributes to our overall well-being. So, let’s take care of this little butterfly-shaped powerhouse in our neck and appreciate its tireless efforts in keeping us at our best.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2023 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Fulfi

ll Meal Distribution At Recreation Center

BERKELEY – Mayor Carmen Amato and Berkeley Township Recreation, in conjunction with Fulfill, remind residents that anyone in need of food, for any reason, is

welcome to come to the Recreation Center on Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. No registration required. The Recreation Center is located at 630 Atlantic City Boulevard, Route 9.

Grief Support Group

BAYVILLE – Help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member, or friend. GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life after losing a loved one. The group is led by caring people who have experienced grief and want to help you through the difficult days ahead. We know it hurts, and we want to help.

Group meets every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Living Water Community Church 333 Route 9, Unit B15 Bayville. Cost: $25, including a workbook for the entire 13-week cycle. (Scholarships Available). Register at: livingwatercma.breezechms. com/form/2f7a73. For more information call 732-797-0575 or email cminichino@ livingwatercma.com.

Reflexologyis a science that deals with the principal that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to all the glands, organs and parts of the body. Reflexology includes, but is not limited to:

1. Relieve stress and tension.

2. Improve blood supply and promote the unblocking of nerve impulses.

3. Help nature achieve stability and balance

$5.00 OFF FIRST VISIT

Must present at time of service. Not to be combined with other o ers.

Package includes: Removal from hospital or facility within 25 miles of funeral home, all funeral home service fees, and required cremation container MCDDT-01.

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

Talk about being in the right place at the right time. Surf City resident Elizabeth Laird was at the beach on Long Beach Island and captured this amazing shot of a fisherman as the sun rose over the Jersey Shore. Stunning! Want to share your pix in this space? What if we were to offer you a prize? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline. com and you may hear from us!!

Fulfi ll Welcomes Two New Board Members

NEW JERSEY – Fulfill, a leader in alleviating hunger and building food security in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, is pleased to announce Gene Waddy and the Reverend Rosemarie Broderick as new members of the Board of Trustees.

“We are excited to welcome Gene and Deacon Rose to our Board,” said Lauren Holman, Board Chair of Fulfill. “Fulfill will benefit greatly from their unique skill sets and wealth of business and community-based experience.”

Waddy, a Neptune native, is the owner of ALPHA Business Solutions, an EOR/ payroll and workforce solutions company he created to combine professional solutions and diversity in a natural and authentic way. Recognized as a trailblazer for both ALPHA Business Solutions and Diversant, LLC, the IT staffing firm he co-founded, Waddy was named to the 2022 Staffing 100 North America list by Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA) and was also awarded the 2021 DE&I Influencer recognition. He serves as a member of the Board of Directors of PACE Monmouth and is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, the country’s first African American fraternity.

Deacon Rose serves as the Clergy-in-Charge of Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church in Keansburg and acts as Executive Director of the Center for Community Renewal (CCR) for the last six years. She has led many transformative initiatives to help the community

during Superstorm Sandy and the COVID-19 Pandemic and is recognized as an advocate for social justice for individuals in need. Prior to her role with the CCR, Deacon Rose held a 30+ year career in clinical development leadership in the pharmaceutical and medical technologies industries.

Deacon Rose also chairs Fulfill’s Agency Partner Advisory Committee, a cohort of leaders from Fulfill’s network of partner charitable food distribution agencies across Monmouth & Ocean Counties. The Agency Partner Committee brings the voice of Fulfill’s feeding partners into the Board room to provide valuable input and insight to help form decisions that impact the entire network.

“We are thrilled to have Gene and Deacon Rose join our board of remarkable individuals who are dedicated to combating hunger in our communities,” said Triada Stampas, President and CEO of Fulfill. “Our Board is truly committed to our mission, and I value their leadership as we chart Fulfill’s future.”

“I would also like express our sincere gratitude to Dean Lin and Sammy Steinlight for their long-time dedication to Fulfill as they step down from their roles as a Board Members,” added Holman. “We appreciate their service and commitment to help families and children in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Luckily, they both promise to stay involved with Fulfill, so they will still be helping us meet our mission.”

Weekly Yoga

TOMS RIVER – Join at Hope Sheds Light for Weekly Yoga Find balance and center yourself. Build a healthy routine with Yoga, a gentle form of stretching and deep breathing.

Weekly Yoga is held every Wednesday from 6 to 7 p.m. at 253 Chestnut Street. Open to all levels of experience. Don’t forget - move a muscle, change a thought! Mats will be provided.

Unique And Exceptional – The Seahorse

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Seahorses are members of the fish animal group. Their size range is anywhere from 1 to 14 inches, with a lifespan of 4 years. They exist in temperate, tropical waters throughout the world with their habitats being coral reefs, estuaries, seagrass beds and mangrove forests. The seahorse uses their tail to anchor themselves to seaweed and branching corals. They have different shapes, sizes, and some species can change their color to camouflage their presence from crabs and other fi shes. Generally,

they feed on tiny crustaceans, plankton, and algae. Seahorses do not have stomachs, so their food passes quickly through their bodies, resulting in eating often, that is, between 30 and 50 times pers day.

They are not the best swimmers; even though they are fish. When resting they like to occupy one area, at times holding on to the same coral or seaweed for days. They don’t move quickly but beat their fi ns rapidly - up to 70 times a second moving up, down, forward, or backward.

During a breeding cycle, many seahorses are monogamous. They do not seem to mate for life. Their mating season consists

of a complex courtship ritual that continues through the entire breeding season. Seahorses are the only species where the male becomes pregnant and carries their babies (called fry) to term. The female inserts her eggs through an oviduct (excretory duct) into the male’s brood pouch, where they are later fertilized. Once that’s done, the male stations himself to a nearby areafor the length of gestation, which lasts 9–45 days. Each pregnancy produces 100 – 300 young. Young are released into the open sea during the evening, so they are less prone to predation. Parental bonding ends, and the young are responsible for fi nding

their own way.

Threats to seahorses include overfishing, tourist demand for dried trinkets and unregulated Asian market for traditional medicine. Presently the effects of climate change warming seas long term is not known. 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.

Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

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

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

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

double to 8.9 million by the year 2030.

Signs of abuse and neglect may be (but are not limited to) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unexplained injuries, frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death.

Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

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

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

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

Real Estate

House For Sale By OwnerAdult Community Pheasant Run in Forked River, 2BR, 1 bath, and additional all year room. Asking $340,000. Serious inquiries only.

Angela 609-290-9702. (32)

Items For Sale

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

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)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEW -

ELRY Looking to buy costume/ estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n)

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

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)

Cash On The Spot - For records, 33's, 45's, reel to reels. Call - We pick up the phone! Eddie 732-8295908 will travel. (31)

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. (32)

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)

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)

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

Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus. Filing/Answering Phones/ Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m.

- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid

Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

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)

PT Janitor/Handyman position - Hours 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 5 days a week. Send resume to: admin@holidayheights.com. (33)

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)

Services

Want to perform your best at sports, work, or anywhere else?

Call/message me at 732-209-4125 for free discovery call! (33)

Compassionate, Experienced 24/7

Caregiver - Will Take Care of Your Elderly Loved Ones: Companionship, Personal Hygiene, Meal Preparations, Medication Reminders, Help w/ Errands, Laundry, Housekeeping. Call: 732-867 6686 Nina. (33)

Services Services Services

Services Help Wanted

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)

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-791-2033 or visit dorranceinfo.com/micro. (t/n)

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)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

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)

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)

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)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums from a NJ State Certified Teacher of instrumental music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (33)

Stillwell Services LLC - Handyman services, drain cleaning, camera inspections, bathroom remodeling, sewer repair, leak detection, excavation services. Licensed, insured. 609-346-4243. (32)

C.B.J. ROOFING - Covering the jersey shore since 1984. All work guaranteed. We will beat ANY legitimate estimate. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (20)

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)

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

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-2163176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

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.

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:

• Decks • Doors

EXPERT WORKMANSHIP - Carpentry

• Windows

• Flooring

• Vinyl

Credit Card# Exp.

Railings

• Tile

• New

• Repairs Welcomed. Licensed, Insured. 609-384-9030. (32)

GARDEN COACH ASSISTS SENIORS & DIY's - Create & maintain beautiful containers, repotting. Planting design, selection, plant care. Experienced (Master) Gardener/ Instructor. Joseph 732-232-8144. (29)

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-855-634-0529. (t/n)

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

Experienced and reliable Home Health Care Group - Is ready to assist you hourly or 24/7 according to your special needs. Personal care, companionship, groccery shopping, driving to dr's appointments, medication monitoring etc. Refferences available. Call for more details 732-910-8869. (34)

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. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

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 Town ZIP

Phone Number

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

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Ocean County Debuts New Recycling Guide For Businesses

OCEAN COUNTY

– As Ocean County continues to “recycle right,” the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management has created a new guide to assist businesses with their recycling efforts. This new guide is to help local businesses adjust to waste regulations and aide in transitioning to a more sustainable economic model.

“As a shore community, the environment is a high priority in Ocean County,” said Ocean County Commissioner Barbara Jo Crea, who serves as liaison to the County recycling program. “Our beaches, parks and scenery attract many visitors throughout the year, which helps our local economy.”

The new recycling guide shows a variety of vendors for many mandated recyclables designated by the State of New Jersey. It also highlights many services that the County provides to support local businesses with waste disposal. For example, businesses can bring materials to either the Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood or the Southern Recycling Center in Stafford Township and take advantage of the free disposals services offered by Ocean County for single-stream recyclables (paper, glass, metal and plastic containers), cardboard and boat shrink-wrap. The Ocean County Recycling Centers also offer brush and leaves disposals for a fee and businesses are welcome to purchase compost and mulch as well.

In addition, the new recycling guide includes information on the latest legislation regarding single-use plastics and some recommendations to reduce waste generated from their activities.

“We strive to be a leader in recycling and sus-

tainability in Ocean County with all the many recycling programs that are available to our residents throughout the year,” said the Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari, liaison to Business Development and Tourism. “I look forward to our local businesses getting involved and working with us to help continue keeping Ocean County a beautiful place to live.”

He noted the Ocean County Division of Business Development and Tourism assisted with the guide.

Businesses that are interested in a copy of the recycling guide can email ocrecycles@ co.ocean.nj.us or find the digital guide online at co.ocean.nj.us/recycle.

“The goal is to help our local businesses transition with us to support a sustainable economy where Ocean County can grow without compromising our most valuable assets, people and the environment,” said Crea. “By assisting our businesses with this guide, it will help in our continuing efforts to protect the environment and reduce the amount of waste going into the landfill.”

Photo courtesy Ocean County

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Field Of Dreams 2nd Annual Car, Truck, And Motorcycle Show

TOMS RIVER – Field of Dreams 2nd Annual Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show will be on October 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1505 North Bay Avenue, Toms River. Registration starts 9 a.m. Rain date October 15. Pre-register here: rwjbhfieldofdreams.com/ product/car-show-entry-fee.

More information here: jerseyshorecarshows.com/fod.

Here is a show you don’t want to miss! There will be something for everyone to enjoy, so make sure you bring the whole family! Here’s what to expect:

$20 pre-registration by September 15 or

$25 day of show (Veterans pay $20 day of show!)

Open to all years/makes/modes of cars, trucks & motorcycles

50/50 Raffle

Wonderful raffle prizes

Trophies and Awards

Awesome food

Vendors will be present

The park will be open so make sure to bring the kids

Music by DJ Big Al from Jersey Shore Car Shows

100% of the proceeds benefits Field of Dreams!

Ice Worlds At Robert J. Novins Planetarium

TOMS RIVER – The delicate balance between ice, water and the existence of life has been a topic of scientific inquiry for generations. In travels to the Arctic and Antarctic regions of our planet, we’ll examine the ecosystems that exist and thrive there and learn how their survival is connected with our own. Beyond Earth, we’ll see how the existence of ice shapes the landscape and the natural systems on other planets and moons in our

Gator Store Donations & Ocean Gate Day

OCEAN GATE – Donate a toy/items to the “Gator Store” and be entered to win a prize! Items the students love: books, slime, games, outdoor activities, STEM project kits, art, supplies, bouncy balls, water bottles, card games, Rubix cubes, school supplies, etc.

Each item donated will receive one entry tickets to the raffle. A table will be set up with PTO at Ocean Gate Day, where donations can be dropped off. Items can

also be dropped off at the school prior Ocean Day for a raffle ticket. Winner will be drawn at 3 p.m. Any questions, call 732-269-3023.

The Gator Store is a school-based store the students earn money (gator bucks) by displaying the 6 Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. Ocean Gate Day will be on August 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Packing House Tour At Double Trouble

Solar System.

Winner of five Telly Awards. Narrrated by Academy Award nominated actress, Emily Watson. Produced in cooperation with the University of New Hampshire, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, with the support of the National Science Foundation.

Ice Worlds at Robert J. Novins Planetarium will be shown on August 5 and 18 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Purchase tickets at ocean.edu/ planetarium.

Kid’s Summer Spectacular

BERKELEY – Free shows every Thursday at the John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park at Berkeley Island. Showtime 1 p.m. Spray Park too! Hosted by Ocean County Parks and Recreation.

August 3 – Kids Fun Magic By Ron

August 10 – Josh’s Magic Circus

August 17 – Ken the Magician

August 24 – Hill Billy Harry’s Hilarious Hoe Down

School District Hiring Custodians

BERKELEY – Berkeley Township School District is currently accepting applications for full-time and part-time custodians. Visit the district website at btboe.org and click on

Board of Education > Board Documents and Resources > Employment Opportunities > Vacancies > Maintenance/Custodial to apply for a custodian position.

BAYVILLE – Join a village historian for a guided tour of the historic Double Trouble Cranberry Sorting and Packing House as you hear stories of this former company town. Starts at 11 a.m. in front of the packing house on July 29. Held sun or drizzle. Steady rain or thunder cancels. Ages 8 and up. No pets. Please plan on

arriving at least 15 minutes before program start.

Registration requested at DoubleTrouble.eventbrite.com. Groups of 10 or more people must contact us directly to inquire about arrangements for a tour at least one month before desired date. For additional information call 732-341-4098.

21 Plus Foundation2nd Annual Fall Festival

BERKELEY – Join at Veterans Park on September 23 from 12 to 4 p.m. for a family friendly fun filled day of music, cornhole, children’s activities, food trucks and more! The Fall Festival serves as a fundraiser as well as a

community awareness event.

21 Plus has provided support to adults with disabilities since 1979 ( 21plus. org ). For more information, contact info@21plus.org or 732-240-3118 ext. 215.

Laser Bon Jovi At Robert J. Novins Planetarium

TOMS RIVER – After ushering in the era of pop-metal with their hit singles “You Give Love a Bad Name,” “Living on a Prayer,” and “Wanted Dead or Alive,” Bon Jovi grew out of the big-haired ‘80s to become one of the biggest American rock bands of their time occasionally hitting on the adult contemporary charts

without ever turning away from hard rock, proving how they never lost their roots and became second only to Bruce Springsteen in defining the spirit and sound of New Jersey rock & roll.

Laser Bon Jovi at Robert J. Novins Planetarium will be on August 19 at 8:30 p.m.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

accusation, and an apt description of the answers to the starred clues

ewan

2 “Give or take”

3 Floral wreath

4 Yesterday evening

5 Climber’s goal

6 Blu-__ Disc

7 Closer’s inning

8 Adler called “the woman” by Sherlock Holmes

9

35 Tidal movement

36 Joey of kiddie lit

38 Final thoughts?

40 Buenos __

41 Hand or foot

42 “Mental Illness”

Grammy winner Aimee 46 HDTV choice 47 __ shadow

48 Unexpected endings 49 “I’m blushing!”

50 “Fancy!”

52 Southern California chain known for pastrami

54 Tidal movement

56 Lets use for now

57 Ideal places

58 Some matriarchs

62 “Meet the Press” moderator Chuck 64 1910s conflict, for short 65 Narc’s org. 66 Unit of corn 67 Get on in years 68 Simple shirt

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

PUZZLE SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

THE WEEK OF JULY 29 - AUG 4

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST FOR

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Life is full of whims and now may be the time to follow them. Spend some time or money on things that can help you appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Overcoming objection can be easier when your respect other’s opinions.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : You could be content to be highly visible in public, but enjoy your romantic moments in private. You may be happy to spend more time with family or friends and can easily balance your social life and your obligations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You could only want to hear what you want to right now. Double check your figures or reexamine contracts and try not to get distracted by freelunch schemes or be persuaded into making major changes to your financial situation.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Seeing is believing, they say, but there are times when you view an optical illusion. Some situations are like the intricate paintings of a woman’s face that reveals a field of flowers when seen at a different angle.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : You may have a reputation for being able to easily adapt to new situations or rethink your current position. Surprising events might offer challenges, but you could be well prepared to shift gears if the occasion calls for it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your eagerness and can-do attitude can impress others.An enthusiastic approach to innovative ideas and valuable information could earn you the title of wunderkind. Your loved ones may benefit from your positive input.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If weighty personal or relationship concerns are at the front of your mind it may be time to give yourself some breathing room. Your wellhoned business skills can be useful on the job or when considering financial matters.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A puzzling situation may freeze you for a few hours. You could be stopped in your tracks, afraid to move in any direction right now. Take your time to find your way out of this dilemma and work towards a resolution.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

When you feel you are in too deep you may not know which way is up. Regain your sense of direction by looking for the light. A good friend might put business matters into perspective and provide sound financial advice.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : Your smile could win someone’s heart or light the fires of affection. New friendships may lose their luster quickly, but loyal relationships can bring joy for a long time to come. If someone creates a mix-up offer forgiveness.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): It may be best to choose the sure thing rather than gambling with your valuable resources. You could be distracted by surprising family disclosures or by friends’ invitations to participate with them in their hobbies.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): If given the right incentive even an old dog can learn new tricks. There may be moments when you feel you’re past your prime. A new and interesting partner could be a welcome source of motivation and inspiration.

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

CREAMY AND UNDENIABLY MEATY, THIS PASTA IS SURE TO BE A CROWD-PLEASER PASTA ALLA ZOZZONA

By America’s Test Kitchen

(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.