2023-07-29 - The Manchester Times

Wawa On Busy Circle Already Drawing A Crowd

Manchester High School Students Honored

Now you can pick up your latest edition

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST – There was a costumed character, free T-shirts, a contest, free food and coffee and plenty of smiles. It could have been the grand opening of Disneyland but for area customers, it was the first day of the much-anticipated Wawa convenience store.

For months it was simply known as Wawa’s store #8494 but

last week, the doors opened and the celebration began as 100 shoppers lined up around the building awaiting their turn to pick up their free limited-edition “Wawa Coffee, Hoagies & Kindness” T -shirts and enter the store for the fi rst time.

That also gave them a

chance to get a free cup of coffee, look around, meet the staff and also share some time with the chain’s feathered mascot, Wally Goose.

Rich Krause of Pine Lake Park in Manchester Township saw notice of the opening online and he was among those

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – Advanced Placement and Junior Achievement students received some good news, and were rewarded for all their hard work. AP exam scores were released this month, and the township high school’s AP students were recognized for having exceptional test scores.

They were honored at the latest Board of Education meeting for their accomplishment. Those students who achieved top scores of a 4 or a 5 on the AP exams that were administered in May include: Adeposi Aderogba AderRAHgba, Mia Caruso, Alexis Cervenak, Aaliyah Douglas, Emily Emmert, Katherine Estevanell, Rico Fidelino, Melanie Grom, Jingyi Guo, Taylor Hoenge, Hyams Patricia, Shay Juralewicz, Joseph Knaz, Abena Konadu, Sullivan Nolan, Olisa Okose, Rachael Oliver, Nelia Pikor, Ella Rajcok, Azhra Ramos,

(Wawa - See Page 4) (Students - See Page 16)

Behind Every Face Is A Story In Newly Discovered Homeless Camp

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – A clandestine homeless encampment 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

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Photo courtesy Manchester Schools Manchester Township High School Advanced Placement students pose with school officials after receiving news of their exceptional test scores.

Photos By Bob Vosseller

of The Manchester Times at the newly opened Lakehurst Wawa at 604 Pine Street.

Wawa mascot Wally Goose joins members of the Lakehurst Fire Company who won the Hoagies for Heroes competition.

Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

The many faces of the newly discovered homeless encampment.

pilots conduct Amidst an area nestled near high tension wires, rows of tents and people moving about revealed a hidden world of a homeless encampment. (Homeless - See Page 5)

Wawa: Continued From Page 1

lined up around 7:30 a.m. for the 8 a.m. opening that filled every parking spot the store had.

“Even though there is a closer Wawa to my house I wanted to come here. This is what passes for excitement around here,” Krause said. He’s lived in the area for 33 years “and the area has changed quite a bit. The gas here is as cheap as possible. This is the cheapest around here.”

“I came over here because every time I go to ShopRite I see this place being built and I was curious to see the response of these people,” said Ken Hyman, another Manchester resident. He had some concerns about the traffic flow in the area and how it would work on a regular day of commuting.

“We have a lot of senior citizens including myself but I think I am a bit more alert than many of them and I have some difficulties navigating sometimes. To get in and out of here is a little tricky,” he added.

Hyman said, “I’ve been living around here for 40 something years. I passed one of the other Wawas to get out here. I also wanted the T-shirt.”

The official address is 604 Pine Street but most people know it as the circle.

It’s between a strip mall plaza and the borough’s police department headquarters. The only entry point is off Union Avenue.

Brian DiMeo, their wives and members of their families were present. Council President Steven Oglesby was also there but he was wearing his Lakehurst First Aid Squad hat that morning as a member of the squad’s hoagie building team that competed against the police department and borough fire company.

Wawa’s signature Hoagies for Heroes competition featured members of each of the borough’s emergency response agency. They competed to see who could build the most hoagies in three minutes. The winner was the Lakehurst Fire Company.

Police Chief Matthew Kline had some fun pretending to handcuff the firefighters who were pretty speedy when it came to building hoagies having assembled at least 30 sandwiches.

At the conclusion of the Hoagies for Heroes competition, store representatives presented checks of $1,000 to each department’s charity of choice.

“This is an incredible turnout. I wasn’t expecting this,” Mayor Robbins said as his 2-year-old grandson Grady Ciccio of Bayville enjoyed a Wawa donut with sprinkles. “This has been in the works for years since I joined the governing body in 1999.”

“We’ve been working on this property since then. Al Leiter, a professional baseball player at one time and his brother John bought the property and we got all the property deemed safe by the DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) because it was an old gas station

that had leakage,” the mayor added.

Mayor Robbins said the site experienced full reclamation that took “years and years. We finally got a clean bill of health.” The owners have been working with Wawa for at least two years. “It is finally here!”

General Manager Kyle Sommer and his staff greeted people at the door following a countdown for the 8 a.m. opening. Sommer will lead a team of approximately 50 associates, all of which are new positions.

Lakehurst

Area Manager Daniel Holland remarked, “I’m delighted to welcome your newest store as we give a ceremonial toast to our associates, customers and our community. When our first convenience store opened in April 1964 in Folsom, Pa. our founder, Grahme Wood envisioned a business built on people, not just profits. Over 1,000 stores later, our 45,000 associates are committed to fulfilling lives, every day.”

The Lakehurst store marks the 31st out of 76 stores within the chain’s six-state operating area of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Florida and Washington, D.C. The chain

also announced its future expansion to Florida Panhandle, Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

Mayor Robbins said during the ribbon cutting, “This property has been vacant for many years. It used to be an Exxon gas station. I want to welcome Wawa to our community!”

Sommer led customers in a toast during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Wally Goose provided the mayor an oversized pair of scissors and red ribbon for the event which also included an explosion of confetti.

Mayor Harry Robbins, Councilman

Photo By Bob Vosseller

Police Chief Matthew Kline pretends to slap some handcuffs on one of the fast moving borough firefighters to slow her down since the police were competing with firefighters in how many hoagies they can make.

surveillance over waterways, 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 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 near-

by 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.

(Homeless - See Page 7)

Homeless:

the time he and Fred were separated when Honeker landed in a temporary shelter in Asbury Park.

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

“Steve helped me out and I got reunited with my dog,” Honeker said. “I’ve been here since November.”

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.

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

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.

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.

Continued From Page 5 (Homeless - See Page 16)

“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?”

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

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 Manchester Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to

edit or reject letters.

The weekly deadline is 5 p.m.

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

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

Letter On Wind Power Is A Lot Of Hot Air

Bill Would Give Farm Workers Overtime, Protections

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

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

“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 fi rsthand 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 overwhelmingly 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

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 Assistance 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 reimbursement for these services.

“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.”

TREASURE REMODELING

Crestwood Village II Travel Club

WHITING – The Crestwood Village II

Travel Club has announced the following upcoming trips:

Resorts Casino and Atlantic City Airshow “Preview” – August 15. Trip cancelled. Refunds will be issued.

Doo Wop Christmas at Tropicana – November 30. Travel to the Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City to see the show “A Doo Wop Christmas” performed by the Doo Wop Project and their band. Hear vintage holiday songs by The Crests, Belmonts, Flamingos and more in doo wop style. The Doo Wop Project has appeared around the country and has performed in Jersey Boys.

Tickets are $94 and includes bus transportation, driver gratuity, show and $25 slot play. Bus boards Harmony Hall at

12:30 p.m. and leaves 12:45 p.m. Return bus boards 7:45 p.m. and leaves 8 p.m. Tickets will be on sale in the Harmony Hall Activities room on Wednesdays beginning August 23 until October 26.

Menopause 2 at Tropicana – April 16, 2024. Travel to the Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City to see the show “Menopause 2: Cruising Through The Change.” Five years after their chance encounter in a department store, we set sail with our beloved ladies for more high jinks on the high seas. We can only imagine what’s going to happen. Tickets will be on sale later in the year.

No refunds unless trips are cancelled. For more information, call Linda at 732-7161928 or Fran at 732-581-2290.

Live Healthy Ocean County

Chronic Disease Screenings

MANCHESTER – Mayor Robert Arace, Manchester Town Council, and the Manchester Senior Advisory Council are proud to sponsor Live Healthy Ocean County.

Join for free Chronic Disease screenings provided by the Ocean County Health Department on August 2 from

10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Crestwood Village 5 Club House, 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting.

Services include: blood pressure screening, stroke risk assessment, medication management, diabetes, dental and health education. Dieticians and dental consultants will be on site.

Concert Fest 2023

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township and The Recreation Department proudly present “Concert Fest 2023” at Harry Wright Lake, Whiting.

August 9

5 p.m. - WJRZ

6 p.m. - “Jukebox Legends”

7:30 p.m. - “KBrown Express”

August 23

5 p.m. - WJRZ

6 p.m. - “Rock N’ Rhythm”

7:30 p.m. - “British Invasion Years”

Listen to WJRZ for concert updates. Concerts are free to the public. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Refreshment and food vendors will be available. For details contact Manchester Township Recreation Department at 732-657-8121 ext. 5101 or 5102 or visit the website at manchestertwp.com.

Manchester Recreation Department Presents: “The Addams Family”

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township Recreation Department presents: “The Addams Family.” Show dates are July 28 at 7 p.m. and July 29 at 2 and 7 p.m. at Manchester Township High

School Auditorium.

Choreographer: Kelsey Hoban; Director: Emily Chant; Technical Director: Caitlyn Sloan. Purchase tickets online for a discount at mtrst.booktix.net or at the door!

Designer Handbag Bingo Is Back

WHITING – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 30 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting is once again holding its popular “Designer Handbag Bingo” on October 14.

The Parish Hall doors will open at 10 a.m. and bingo starts at 12 p.m. The 10game bingo will have exquisite designer

handbags as prizes. Tickets are $30 each. There will be door prizes, a 50/50 and gift auction. There is free coffee, tea, desserts; and outside food is permitted. Share the afternoon fun with your friends. For information and tickets, call Amelia at 732-306-2145.

C ommunity n ews

New Senior Services Office In Whiting Proves Popular

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– The newly opened Senior Services office based in the Whiting section of the township has already seen a lot of visitors, according to Judy Noonan, confidential aide to Township Mayor Robert Arace.

The office opened earlier this summer. Noonan is there on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Her number is 732-657-8121 Ext.4930. The office, located at 82 Lacey Road, is a place where seniors can get information about various services and to ask questions if they have a problem.

During the office’s June 30 grand opening/ ribbon cutting ceremony, Mayor Arace noted that “trekking across to the east side of town can be difficult for seniors. This will make it easier for them. Sometimes there is 25-to-30-minute traffic.”

The township has another senior services office next to Town Hall at 1 Colonial Drive.

Senior Services are provided to residents who are 60 years of age or older. Those services include transportation for those who are ambulatory/semi-ambulatory/ wheelchair-bound. Priority is given to persons who are unable to drive. This service is available on a fi rst-come, fi rstserved basis.

To schedule an appointment call Manchester Senior Outreach at 732-849-8305. Non-medical transportation is also available

on a limited basis to eligible senior residents who, because of health problems, cannot provide their own transportation to needed destinations.

These may include banks, legal services, food shopping, clothes shopping, hair salon/ barber shops, post office, visiting loved ones in care facilities or other necessary destinations. For non-medical transportation call Manchester Senior Outreach at the same number, 732-849-8305.

The Manchester Township Senior Advisory Council has five members who are appointed by the mayor, who serves as a sixth member.

According to the Township’s website, the function of the Council is to be responsible for advising the governing body as to all matters which may affect the senior residents of Manchester.

The Council is also responsible for the coordination of programs and activities which are specifically directed to the needs of senior residents. It also serves to propose legislation, or other measures or programs to the governing body that contributes to the quality of life of the community’s senior residents.

To learn more about the services and programs offered through the township’s Senior Services Office, visit manchestertwp.com/departments/department-of-administration/senior-services/.

Crestwood Village Six Movie Night

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

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

AUG. 8-9 2 DAY BARBARA & FRANK THE CONCERT THAT NEVER WAS AT RESORTS CATSKILLS CASINO $232/pp Dbl.Occ.

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

AUG. 19 YANKEE VS. RED SOX’S $189/pp

Includes Main Level covered seating, Hot Dog & Drink.

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

Includes 6 Nights Stay, Meals & More.

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

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

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

Includes 3 Nights Stay, Meals & More.

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

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

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

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

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

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Center Orch Seat.

WHITING –

On August 11, “About My Father” will be shown. In this heartfelt comedy, Sebastian (Sebastian Maniscalco) is encouraged by his fiancée to invite his father (Robert DeNiro) to spend Memorial Day weekend with her parents. The gathering soon develops into a culture clash on its way to the true meaning of family. The movie is rated PG-13 and runs 1 hour and 29 minutes. Movie and Extra Bonus Features shown immediately after it are both shown closed-captioned for the hearing impaired.

Doors open at 5 p.m. and the movie starts

at 6 p.m. Come early to sit, chat and enjoy light refreshments that will be served until 5:45 p.m. The movie will be shown at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting/ Manchester off of Route 530.

Feel free to bring your own chair or cushion, if the provided chairs do not suit you, however, do not block others’ views. All are welcome for the cost of $3 which includes some light refreshments. Feel free to bring your own snacks. Non-residents of Crestwood Village Six are always welcome. Any questions call Arlene at 732-408-5147.

Fish Fry From Argyle’s (Kearny)

WHITING – Resident Club Crestwood Village 5 present Fish Fry from Argyle’s (Kearny) on September 8 from 5 to 7 p.m., doors open at 4:30 p.m.

Choice of: fish and chips or fried chicken and chips. Includes soft drink and dessert and coffee. BYOB. Take out orders available. You must call ahead to place an order. Cost is $25 per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance and at time we need

your dinner selection. Purchase tickets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Village 5 clubhouse 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting or by mail. Make checks out to Resident Club CV-5 and Mail to Debbie Fascia 18 Drake Street, Whiting NJ 08759

Make sure to include your dinner selection. Call Debbie for more information at 201-618-8514.

Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 18

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

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

SEPT. 28 THE SPINNERS AT TROPICANA $107/pp

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

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

Includes 2 Nights Stay, Meals & More.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Includes Lunch.

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

Includes a Plated lunch & Show.

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

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

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

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

JAN. 17-27,2024 10 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE NORWEGIAN

2023-2024 Orientations & Back To School Nights

MANCHESTER – Below, you will find dates and flyers for the upcoming 2023-2024 school orientations in August, as well as the Back to School Night dates and times in September and October for each school.

Orientations:

August 15: Manchester Township Middle School – 6 th grade orientation

9 a.m.

August 22: Manchester Township Elementary School – Pre-k 8:30 a.m.; Kindergarten 10 a.m.; new students 2 p.m.

August 22: Manchester Township High School – time TBD

August 23: Whiting Elementary –Pre-K 8:30 a.m.; Kindergarten 10 a.m.; new students 2 p.m.

August 24: Ridgeway Elementary –Pre-K 8:30 a.m.; Kindergarten 10 a.m.; new students 2 p.m.

N/A: Regional Day School – individual tours as needed.

Back to School Nights:

September 14: Ridgeway Elementary at 6:30 p.m.

September 21: Manchester Township Elementary School at 6:30 p.m.

September 26: Manchester Township Middle School at 6:30 p.m.

September 28: Manchester Township High School at 6:30 p.m.

October 5: Whiting Elementary at 6:30 p.m.

October 12: Regional Day School at 6:30 p.m.

St. Stephen’s Annual Dignified Junque Flea Market

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, furniture, 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.

Free Movie Night At Evangelical Church

WHITING – Free admission for movie on August 12 at 2 p.m. – “Priceless.” A movie inspired by true stories. Desperate and at crossroads, James agrees to drive a box truck on a shady, one-time trip for cash, no questions asked. But when he discovers what he is delivering is actually a who,

James is compelled to help two frightened sisters who are unaware of the danger that awaits them. A tale of love, strength and redemption.

Showing at Christ Evangelical Church 300 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Refreshments will be served. Doors open at 1:30 p.m.

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.

Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club News

WHITING – Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club has announced the following upcoming trips for 2023:

August 10 - Trip to Sussex County Farm & Horse Show/NJ State Fair: Price $50. This is Senior Day at the Fair. This fair is one of the biggest in the State of NJ. There are all kinds of animals to look at and watch, special music and events specific for seniors as well as horse show events, many crafters and vendors and every imaginable food item. There are inside displays as well as areas to sit and rest. If you are from the Sussex County area, this may be your opportunity to meet up with a friend at the fair. Trip includes roundtrip transportation, admission ticket and bus driver gratuity. Trip is rain or shine so dress appropriately, wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen. Gather at Unity Hall at 7:45 a.m. and return at 6 p.m. t’s not too late - There are still seats available for this trip.

September 26 - Peddler’s Village and Lunch: Price $88. Trip includes lunch at Joseph Ambler Inn and shopping and or sightseeing at Peddler’s Village for 1 ½ hours. Lunch will be served buffet style

with salad, herb roasted salmon, parmesan crusted chicken and sirloin strip steak, potato, vegetable, dessert and coffee, tea, and iced tea. Trip includes round-trip transportation, lunch and bus driver gratuity. Gather at Unity Hall at 9:30 a.m. and return at approximately 4:30 p.m. Call to reserve your tickets now.

Looking Ahead To 2024 - In September we will be announcing the details for two exciting trips to Lancaster, PA. The fi rst one will be on April 30, 2024, to Shady Maple for lunch and shopping and also to make three other stops for snacks, shopping or just exploring. The second trip will be on September 17, 2024, to Sight and Sound to see the new show for next year which will be “Daniel.” Both trips have sold out in the past so don’t be disappointed. Reserve your seat for either trip beginning in September, 2023. Deposits will only be refunded if trip is cancelled. Tickets for trips will be on sale on Monday mornings at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, from 9 to 11 a.m. For reservations or information, call Rose Kantenwein at 732-408-5441. Make all checks payable to CV3 Travel Club.

Crestwood Village 7 Farmers Market

WHITING – Crestwood Village 7 in Whiting has changed the day of their weekly Farmers Market to every Tuesday. Held at the clubhouse parking lot, 1 Falmouth Avenue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

They welcome anyone selling homemade or homegrown food products. This is a service to the local communities, so all vendors spaces are free. Call Barbara at 732-715-0813 to reserve space.

Manchester Recreation Farmers’ Market

MANCHESTER – Manchester Recreation

Farmers’ Market has opened for the season! The market will be held at Manchester Town Hall, 1 Colonial Drive, Thursdays

until August 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact Manchester Recreation ay 732-657-8121 ext. 5102 or email recreation@manchestertwp.com.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

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

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

Jewelry

OPEN

The

11AM – 5PM Beach Bags, Sunglasses, Hats & Cover Ups

“U”

Colby Commons Shopping Center

1900 Route 70 • Suite #2

Manchester, NJ 08759

(Located between hair & nail salon)

www.expressiveu.biz

What is a “Mom & Pop” Business?

A small, independent, family owned, controlled and operated business. It has a small amount of business volume. It is not franchised.

“ Open for business in a single location.”

So if your “Mom or Pop” need the services of rehabilitation and nursing services, it just makes sense to go to a “Mom & Pop.”

Here is a picture of a true “Mom & Pop” business:

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. Toms River, NJ 08753 732-505-4477

www.rosegardennj.com

ARounD the JeRsey shoRe

Ocean

County Debuts New Recycling Guide For Businesses

– 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

Photo courtesy Ocean County

generated from their activities.

“We strive to be a leader in recycling and sustainability 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 fi nd 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 landfi ll.”

American Revolution Museum Bus Trip

TOMS RIVER – Bus trip to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia will be on September 23. Join us as they start to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!

Only $45 for members and students, $55 for non - members. This includes a charter bus - please note there is no restroom on the bus, but we will make one quick stop in each direction - bus driver gratuity, and museum admission.

There is a restaurant in the museum and

To reserve a spot, call Jeff Schenker at 609-339-9134.

numerous others in the immediate area. The museum is located right in the Historic District so there is much more to see and do. They depart promptly at 9 a.m. from the Ocean County Historical Society, located at 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River. Arrive by 8:30 a.m. so they can get everybody checked in. They will depart from the museum at 2:30 p.m. and expect to return at approximately 4 p.m.

ARounD the JeRsey shoRe

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

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.

Beautiful, Beneficial Butterfl ies

TOMS RIVER – Commissioner Virginia

E. Haines announces that the Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be offering Beautiful, Beneficial Butterfl ies for all ages at Cattus Island County Park, located at 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard, Toms River, on Thursdays until August 17, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. A naturalist will be on hand to show you around the beautiful and fragrant Butterfly Garden, located in

front of the Cooper Environmental Center. Learn about our native pollinators and what it takes to create your own butterfly garden at home!

No registration is required to attend this free program. Be aware that it is weather-dependent. For more information or to receive a Parks & Recreation Newsletter call 732-506-9090 or visit oceancounty parks.org.

Ocean County History Day

TOMS RIVER – The Third Annual Ocean County History Day will take place on September 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a rain date scheduled for September 17.

The Ocean County Historical Society will be co-sponsoring this fun day with the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission. Numerous Ocean County Historical Societies and museums will

be setting up displays to help tell the rich history of Ocean County. There will be live entertainment, historic reenactors, history books to purchase, and free tours of the newly renovated Elizabeth Sculthorp Force Victorian Era house and museum. For additional information, contact Jeff Schenker at 609-339-9134 or jeffschenker@ myyahoo.com.

Tin Can Sailors Association

TOMS RIVER – The Tin Can Sailors Association Of New Jersey NJ DESRON 2 – Phoenix Squadron welcomes all branches of the military to their group. They invite you to join their meetings that are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 12 p.m. at the George P. Vanderveer, American Legion Post 129, 2025 Church Road, Toms River. Order

breakfast or lunch at a very reasonable cost to you, eat during meeting.

They are a chartered squadron of The National Association of Destroyer Veterans (Tin Can Sailors). Contact them at 732-630-1855 or email commander@ tcs-desvets-nj.org or BillSchmidt1000@ aol.com; 732-575-6904. Website: tcs-desvets-nj.org.

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.

50th Annual Horseshoe Tournament

MANCHESTER – Join Manchester Township for the 50th Annual Horseshoe Tournament at Harry Wright Lake on August 5. (Rain date August 6)

On-site registration closes at 88 max or 9 a.m. Singles and doubles. Play begins

at 9:30 a.m. Wear your oldest Manchester Horseshoe Tournament shirt for a chance to win a prize.

For more information, call the Recreation Department at 732-657-8121 ext. 5101 or 5102.

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 excludes residential removal fee and Crematory charges.

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 charges.

www.TallwoodsCareCenter.com

Homeless

: Continued From Page 7

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

Students:

Continued From Page 1

Hannah Repuyan, Genesis Salguero, Shelby Schwartz, Luka Seraphini, Daniel Sharkey, Katelyn Van Pelt, and Alexandra Zsoldos. Their accomplishments were celebrated and each of the students were presented a certificate for their achievements during that Board meeting.

School Superintendent John Berenato said “the school administration and Board of Education are very committed to supporting our AP students while increasing our AP offerings and dual enrollment. We understand what a big endeavor and undertaking that taking AP classes present.”

“The curriculum is intense and we recognize the incredible course load, and achievement, that comes along with being an AP student. For way of example of how the Board of Education has been so supportive of our AP students: if any student achieves a 3, 4 or 5 on their AP exam during the 2023-24 school year, the BOE will be reimbursing the cost of the student’s AP exam,” Berenato added.

An AP Boot Camp recently took place at MTHS. AP Boot Camp is a program for students taking an AP course for the fi rst time. Students focused on the skills necessary to successfully complete a year in AP courses.

Student experiences were created to encourage teamwork, communication, organization, critical reading and writing, and problem-solving. AP Boot Camp involved four days of skill and content development which educators felt was necessary for the students to excel in AP classes.

Those who attended this event were actively engaged with their peers in various activities and experiences designed to

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.”

prepare students mentally, emotionally, and psychologically for the rigors that will be placed upon them in a college setting. AP students weren’t the only ones getting accolades this month. Junior Achievement (JA) of New Jersey (JANJ) recognized the 2023 High School Hero Scholar Award recipients at its recent annual Board meeting.

The School District sent out congratulations to Manchester High School students Allison Gilbert, attending George Mason University, and Abena Konadu, attending Drexel University. These students are two of only six students in New Jersey to be awarded these scholarships.

The JA High School Hero Scholar Award was co-founded by Pamela Craig in 2015 to recognize exceptional students who have participated as classroom volunteers through JA High School Heroes while promoting the significance of education and career preparation.

JANJ leaders credited Craig’s generosity, vision, and leadership with the Scholar Award Initiative having helped shape the lives of young adults across the state. This effort will continue for years to come.

As a cornerstone of their mission, JANJ noted their dedication to equipping New Jersey students with the employability and life skills needed for successful futures. JANJ’s High School Heroes initiative empowers students to be role models as they teach JA to children within their local communities, all the while developing their own leadership, presentation, time management, and collaboration skills.

Every school year, thousands of Heroes statewide bring JA’s career readiness, money management, and entrepreneurship learning experiences to life for tens of thousands of children.

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

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.

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.

AREAS OF

• Total shoulder arthroplasty (Anatomic and Reverse)

• ACL/PCL reconstruction

• Complex knee ligamentous reconstruction

• Knee cartilage preservation surgery (OATs/MACI/HTO Meniscal Transplant)

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

• Hip Arthroscopy

• Ankle Arthroscopy

• Robotic total knee arthroplasty

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The 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.

Photo of the week

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!!

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!

Estuary Kayak Tours

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be offering Estuary Kayak Tours for ages 14 and up. Tours will launch from the boat dock at the Ocean County Parks Administration Office, located at 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, on Wednesdays until August 16 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Explore the salt marsh and Silver Bay as Cattus Island County Park naturalists guide you on our two-person sit-upon kayaks. Kayaks, paddles, and PFDs will be provided. Please plan on arriving 15 minutes prior

to the tour with water shoes and clothes that can get wet.

To register, send a check or money order for $5 made payable to the “County of Ocean” to Ocean County Parks and Recreation, 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, NJ 08753. Provide your name, address, and daytime telephone number, along with program number 222306 and the date of your choice when registering.

For more information or to receive a Parks & Recreation Newsletter call 732506-9090 or visit oceancountyparks.org.

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

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)

Help Wanted

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)

Services Services Services

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

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

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)

Services

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)

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)

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)

EXPERT WORKMANSHIP

- Carpentry

• Windows

• Decks • Doors

• Flooring

• Vinyl

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)

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)

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)

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:

Credit Card# Exp.

Railings

• Tile

• New

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

GARDEN COACH ASSISTS SEN-

IORS & 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.

(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

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 fishes. 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 fins 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 area - for 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 finding 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 732-244-2768. It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

AS THE LEADING RESOURCE FOR SENIOR VETERANS WE WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE APPROVAL PROCESS

ARounD the JeRsey shoRe

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 Fulfi ll. “Fulfi ll 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-inCharge 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 Fulfi ll’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.”

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 contempo-

rary 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.

“In-Seine” Fridays

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be offering “In-seine” Fridays for all ages at Cattus Island County Park, located at 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard, Toms River, on Fridays until August 18 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Take a one-mile nature walk to Cattus Island’s beach, where a naturalist will

explain the fine art of seining. You will see a seining demonstration and get a close-up view of native bay species.

No registration is required to attend this free program. Be aware that it is weather-dependent. For more information or to receive a Parks & Recreation Newsletter call 732-5069090 or visit oceancountyparks.org.

Chronic Disease Screenings

MANCHESTER – Mayor Robert Arace, Manchester Town Council, and the Manchester Senior Advisory Council are proud to sponsor Live Healthy Ocean County. Join for free Chronic Disease screenings provided by the Ocean County Health Department on August 2 from 10 a.m. to 12

p.m. at Crestwood Village 5 Club House, 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Services include: blood pressure screening, stroke risk assessment, medication management, diabetes, dental and health education. Dieticians and dental consultants will be on site.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

apt description of the answers

ewan

35 Tidal movement 36 Joey of kiddie lit

38 Final thoughts?

40 Buenos __

41 Hand or foot

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT

AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

52 Southern California chain known for pastrami 54 Tidal movement 56 Lets use for now 57 Ideal places 58 Some matriarchs

ARounD the JeRsey shoRe

Game Day For Jersey Shore’s “Magical” Community

By Andrey Nalbantov

BRICK – It’s a Wednesday, and 27 duelists from around the region are facing off to determine who will be champion.

Many are strangers, some are long-time friends, others even come from the same family. That night they all had something in common - playing their favorite trading card game.

They were all in a Brick hobby shop’s weekly Yu-Gi-Oh tournament. Decks were heard shuffling, strategies were thrown around. Cheerful laughter and banter rung around the tables after the announcer gave all the COVID hygiene announcements.

Above all the cheers of victory and groans

of defeat, something else stood out - a father asking his son if he had fun.

Walter Ward, 51, started playing the game around the end of 2003 when it became popular here in the United States. He remembered that his son, who primarily was into Pokemon, developed an interest in Yu-Gi-Oh when the anime was released for western audiences.

“I got into the game with my son,” said Ward. “I learned how to play with him.”

He believes that the stores where the trading card community thrives are great places to meet new people and feel welcomed no matter a person’s background. Also, part

(Game Day - See Page 30)

Photo courtesy Nova Games Gamers flock to local card stores to play in casual matches or tournaments.

Game Day: Continued

From Page 29

of the fun is the competitiveness that these games promote.

The impact of the trading card scene spans worldwide, and has shuffled around the Jersey shore for decades. Magic the Gathering was the fi rst of its kind, started in 1993 and going strong today. It incorporates fantasy worlds similar to Dungeons & Dragons. Pokemon is another popular one, where players collect and duel with “pocket monsters,” just like in the show. Many other licensed properties, from Star Wars to My Little Pony, have been adapted to card games.

Multiple stores around our county give access to enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds to express their hobbies by trading, collecting, building decks, and then challenging each other with a healthy dose of competitiveness and the occasional saltiness.

Trading card games also help to improve a good bit of tactical thinking, math, and imagination skills due to their spectacular art.

Joseph Coppinger, 22, who started playing when he was 10 years old, shared how he was enamored by how cool the monster cards looked, and that everyone can play

their own deck.

When it comes to beginners starting out in the game, Coppinger and Ward share similar advice for new players. When newcomers fi nd something that they like and want to play with, they should stick with it and take the steps until they learn how to play it with ease.

Tournament events provided by the local game stores are the perfect spot for beginners to get a grasp on the game, Cottinger said. During those events, they will be able to see players using different decks and tactics, as well as meet new people. Most stores post their gaming schedule online or in the shop.

A piece of advice he also gives out to parents who might have kids that are interested in the game: “Let them go to events and talk to people… let them have fun,” said Cottinger.

Just like Ward enjoys spending quality father-son time with his boy while playing Yu-Gi-Oh!, he suggests that this can be a great way for parents to get involved with their kids.

And while it might be a challenge at the very start of a person’s dueling journey due to a learning curve, the trading card scene here at the shore has created a close-knit community where everyone is welcome.

Travel Bocce Club To Hold Branson Trip

WHITING – Travel Bocce Club Presents Branson Show Extravaganza: Nine days, eight nights; December 2 to 10. Double: $1,170; Single: $1,455.

Incredible price includes: Motor coach transportation; eight nights lodging including four consecutive nights in Branson area;14 meals: eight breakfasts and six dinners; admission to six fabulous shows including: three morning shows: Dublin’s Irish Tenors with special guests The Celtic Ladies, Down Home Country & A Neil Diamond tribute show; two evening

shows:

Baldknobbers show & Queen Ester show at Sight & Sound; one afternoon show: Dean Z - The Ultimate Elvis Show; Admission to Titanic: The World’s Largest Museum Attraction.

$75 due upon signing per person. Purchase tickets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Village 5 Clubhouse 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Call Debbie at 201618-8514 for more information. Sign up early to prevent cancellation of trip. Final payment due by September 25.

Annual Soup And Mum Sale

WHITING – Coming in September! The Whiting United Methodist Church located at 55 Lacey Road will be having their annual Soup and Mum Sale on September 9. Come shop for beautiful Mums to decorate your home and pick up some “comfort food” assortment of homemade soups by the congregation. They will begin selling at 8:30 a.m. until everything is sold out.

There will also be holiday décor made by their craft group and homemade canned goods. Come early for the best selection. They are located across from Crestwood Manor. Look them up on Facebook for more information or you can call the church office at 732-350-6878 Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. if you have questions.

Honey Bees Of Catt us Island

TOMS RIVER – A PowerPoint presentation will illustrate the history, biology, social organizations, and utility of the European Honey Bee. Participants will learn about the different kinds of bees, their jobs, and be introduced to the world

of hobby bee-keeping.

Lecture will take place on August 24 and September 18, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Cooper Environmental Center lecture room, Cattus Island County Park. Fee is $5 per person. Open to ages 12 years and older.

Manchester Day Rescheduled

MANCHESTER – Save the date! Manchester Day is rescheduled for August 26. The event will begin at 2 p.m. at Harry Wright Lake with games, prizes, demos, rides, entertainment and

fireworks.

Free shuttle service schedule is available from the municipal parking lot, Bowker Field parking lot and senior villages (main club house).

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.

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

By America’s Test Kitchen

PASTA ALLA ZOZZONA

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2023 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.