Southern Boys Volleyball: The Hype Is Real
- In material promoting the numerous achievements of the Southern Regional High School boys volleyball team, it states, “Tradition of Success. 23 years of achieving excellence through hard work, enthusiasm, dedication and passion. Creation of a family called Southern Regional Volleyball. Southern volleyball consists of a group of UNCOMMON PEOPLE achieving UNCOMMON RESULTS!” There are plenty of successes to back up the bravado.
Coach Eric Maxwell, who began the program in 2000, has guided the Rams to numerous titles, including six overall championships in the NJSIAA Tournament. Their latest title - the Group IV state crown - was captured this season.
Maxwell arrived at Southern in the fall of 1999 after working for 11 years at Pinelands Regional where he coached several seasons of boys basketball, the final three at the
varsity level. Then-Southern athletics director Kim DeGraw-Cole had just approved the start of girls volleyball for the fall of 1999 season. Maxwell’s sister-in-law, Cathy Maxwell, was the first coach of the girls team. Fast forward to this season. Smarting from the fact they had not won a state title since 2017, the Rams were determined to make it back to the top of the mountain. Losses to Old Bridge in the
state championship match during the last two seasons further fueled the Rams’ fires.
“We were on a mission to change those results,” Maxwell said, “so we went to work like we always do.”
The Rams worked out with their club program, the Southern Ocean Volleyball Club, from September through February. Its coaching staff consists of former Southern players Robert Kraft (2006-09),
Brennan Davis (2014-17), Matt Jones (2015-18), Anthony LeBlanc (2016-19) and Justin Kean (2017-20).
The hours and hours and hours of hard work and training paid off. The Rams (31-1) captured the Group IV state title with a 2-0 victory over Bridgewater-Raritan (18-7). The game scores were 25-17 and 25-18.
The team consisted of senior outside hitter Lucas Kean, senior defensive specialist Cameron Nu-
gent, senior middle blocker Kyle Caufield, junior outside hitter Jack McKenna, senior opposite Patrick Gaffney, senior libero Landon Davis, junior middle blocker Dane Calsyn, junior opposite-defensive specialist Caden Schubiger, senior setter Ethan Brummer, junior defensive specialist Max DiRocco, junior outside hitter-opposite Ian Batchelor, junior opposite-outside hitter Matthew Hoosack, senior outside hitter Jonah
Short, sophomore middle blocker-opposite Aiden Krinic, sophomore opposite Jonah Krinic, junior defensive specialist Colin Olcott, junior setter-defensive specialist Angelo Addiego, junior setter Nick Gatto, senior middle blocker Chris Prosperi and freshman setter Logan Homme.
“I think the fact that our previous state title was won in 2017 makes this title special,” Maxwell said. “We don’t like finishing second. Add to that the fact that Old Bridge was standing in our way again. We wanted this one badly. And they were considered the favorite.”
The so-called experts were wrong. The Rams toppled Old Bridge in the South Jersey championship match.
Southern captured overall state titles in 2017, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2010 and 2009. Maxwell owns a 711104 overall record at the helm. He has coached the Rams’ girls team to a 542-129 overall record from 2002-2022.
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 pilots
conduct 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
(Homeless - See Page 4)
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 finding work and a lack of nearby food pantries. Responding to the man’s concerns, Brigham agreed to relocate him and later extended assistance to other homeless individuals he learned were in need.
So began the story of Lakewood’s Tent City, which was ultimately dismantled by authorities. Its occupants received some compensation as others moved on to Howell to another homeless community. Township officials in Howell promised to help them, and then sold that property to a developer, who kicked them off.
The most recently discovered homeless encampment set up by Brigham stands out due to
the ages and health of many of its residents, who are living without the comfort of conventional support systems.
In a social media post earlier this month, Brigham gave the first 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 first 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 first pointed to some water jugs that he fills regularly and then sighed as he looked at the pile of black garbage bags. He commented on the inevitability of garbage and a throw away society. The unmistakable upset in Brigham’s voice was palpable as he began moving from tent to tent to check on those he considered part of his ministry. He explained that they each had a chance to share their stories if they wished. Despite the option of anonymity, a surprising number willingly posed for quick portraits, unreservedly offering their full names to accompany their narratives.
Bill Honeker, 63, originally from Brick, emerged from his tent, ready to provide Brigham with the details of the previous day. His bare torso revealed a chiseled six-pack, 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
(Homeless - See Page 5)
Homeless:
Continued From Page 4
he was supposed to marry.
“They told us yesterday that they’re trying to get everybody out of here as soon as they can,” Honeker said. “They want to level everything out and get everyone in temporary placement.”
Honeker was visibly upset as he recalled the time he and Fred were separated when Honeker landed in a temporary shelter in Asbury Park.
“Steve helped me out and I got reunited with my dog,” Honeker said. “I’ve been here since November.”
Originally from Beachwood, 55-year-old 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, 64, said she and her family lived at Surf and Stream for 19 years. A thin tube inserted into the frail woman’s nostrils led to an oxygen concentrator hooked up to a generator.
Frances, who is battling COPD and a kidney blockage, said that although she and her 72-yearold husband, Robert are separated, he lives with her as her caretaker. The couple’s 37-year-old son William nervously caressed Lulu, the family’s devoted English bulldog who was somehow squeezed into the tight space.
While mental health challenges prevent William from working, he also admitted he wanted to be there to help his ailing mother. Frances interjected by proudly calling her son a “Mama’s Boy.”
Kelly Forcier, 57, also came from the Surf and Stream campgrounds and is situated in a tent near the Jamison family. While she isn’t always hooked up to oxygen, she also relies on the generators to provide it to her when she needs it.
Despite his knowledge of the impending shut down of Surf and Stream, Forcier said the manager encouraged her to buy a new camper. COPD is just one of Forcier’s medical issues that have contributed to her totally disabled designation. Two months ago, Forcier found out there was a place for her within the encampment.
“We tried asking for help while we were there (Surf and Stream),” Forcier said. “They were going to give me a week in a hotel room. I get Social Security and could afford a hotel room through the winter, but then where? What about food?”
A white haired man with an air of distinction
couldn’t say enough about how fortunate he was to find a home within the encampment. Morrow Hayes, 78, said he earned an MBA from Wharton School of Business and had a flourishing career as a commercial real estate developer.
As Hayes held onto his cherished pup, Brutus, he said that he doesn’t know what he’ll do if the encampment shuts down. He agreed to go with the social services team to the hospital to get checked out. Hayes called Brigham to pick him up upon his release from the medical facility.
“I’ve been here several months,” shared Hayes. “This would be catastrophic if things are shut down. It’s well run with no crazy behavior.”
One of the other community members walked past Hayes to agree with him. He also whispered that Hayes sometimes gets confused and can’t always find 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 confines of the tent she shares with her family, Katie motioned to a tent reminiscent of a small conference room with four chairs and a long table. Apparently, earlier rains seeped through as the seat was more than a little wet as the interview commenced.
“I’m not scared of hard work,” Katie asserted. “My husband and I raised our family and made plenty of money. But we didn’t save for a rainy day – we were busy taking care of other people.”
A philosophical and fiercely articulate woman, Katie plans to write a book about her experiences. It won’t be one that focuses on the
“woe is me.” After all, Katie invokes a daily mantra that she says comes from the lyrics of Stevie Wonder’s “In the Key of Life.”
“You know sometime in life’s hate and troubles, can make you wish you were born in another time and space,” paraphrased Katie. “But you can bet your life…that God knew exactly where he wanted you to be placed.”
Katie said that she lost her job after doctors gave her opiates for intractable pain and she became addicted to them. She lives at the camp with her husband, Dennis, Sr. and their son, Dennis, Jr., who has some mental health issues. The family also has two aging cocker spaniels from the same litter – one with a visible tumor on its back.
“We’re all living on my $753 check each month,” Katie said. “Where else can we go?”
The snapshot of the residents within the encampment are enough to cause anyone to lose sleep. Many of the people said they already felt let down by some of the agencies that showed up to help them. They worry that alternatives to their current conditions could find 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 first 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.”
OPINIONS & COMMENTARY
E ditorial
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
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
energy options are being crammed down the throats of the American public. 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.
We Welcome Letters To The Editor!
The Southern Ocean Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.
All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. 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 reflect 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 Editorinfused 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 MedfordBill 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.”
Senator Robert Menendez
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both-D-N.J.) joined Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and other Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Fairness for Farm Workers Act. This legislation would update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fairer wages and compensation. The bill would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide overtime and additional minimum wage protections for farm workers.
“Farm workers play a vital role in driving our economy and keeping Americans fed, and as such, they deserve the fair wages and just compensation their hard work calls for,” said Sen. Menendez. “At a time when loud and angry voices insist on erasing the backbreaking work our domestic and agricultural workers do each and every day, legislation like the Fairness for Farm Workers
“It is an injustice that the millions of farm workers feeding our nation lack basic protections afforded to nearly every other American worker,” said Sen. Booker. “I have seen firsthand their crucial contributions to our country, and know that too many work for low pay and in dangerous conditions because of a lack of federal protections. This legislation will ensure farm workers receive the fair wages and overtime pay they deserve by putting an end to their exclusion from our labor laws, ending decades of this discriminatory policy.”
The Fairness for Farm Workers Act would update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fair wages and compensation. 85 years ago, the Fair Labor Standards Act established federal standards for minimum wage and overtime pay but excluded millions of domestic and agricultural workers who were 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
From The Desk Of The
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.”
CORNEAL SCAR TREATMENT
A corneal scar is any abnormality in the naturally transparent lens of the cornea. Such abnormalities can inhibit the cornea’s ability to bend and focus light properly. Though not all scars cause loss of or damage to vision, those that do can bring about considerable vision loss. Fortunately, there are treatment options available today for most corneal scarring. If the scarring is minimal, eyeglasses may be the solution. However, for more severe scars, rigid gas permeable or scleral contact lenses can be used to provide a smooth surface to the cornea. If contacts fail to improve vision, a transplant of healthy, donated corneal tissue may be the only option for healthy eyesight.
If you think you may be suffering from corneal scarring, the ophthalmology team at SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES is here to help. Our expert physicians care about keeping your eyes healthy and your vision clear. We are highly skilled and have a wealth of world-renowned knowledge, experience, and innovation to deliver the finest in complete eye care with a caring and compassionate touch. To schedule an exam, please call 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.
P.S. It may be possible to remove shallow corneal scars with laser surgery.
GRAND OPENING!!
20% OFF
Your Purchase
(Excluding
Must present coupon. Expires 8/31/23.
GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS!
Weddings
• Baby • Anniversary & Birthdays
Police • Fire • Teacher • Nurse
Retirement and Memorial gifts
VERA BRADLEY 20% OFF EVERYDAY!
HOTTEST TOYS • POKEMON BALLOONS • NJ Lottery
344 N. Main St. • Lanoka Harbor • 609-693-0111
Seacrest Receives Mayoral Proclamation For Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM
189 Route 37 • Toms River, NJ (1/4 Mile W. of GSP) 74 Brick Blvd. • Brick, NJ (The Pavillion) 623 Lacey Rd. • Forked River, NJ 732-349-4949
LITTLE EGG HARBOR – In recognition of its care and programming for local seniors, Seacrest Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center received a Proclamation for Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month from Little Egg Harbor Mayor Blaise Scibetta at a recent Township meeting. The Little Egg Harbor skilled nursing facility provides post-hospital care, short-term rehab and long-term residential care.
Photo courtesy Seacrest Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
(L-R): Little Egg Harbor Deputy Mayor Daniel Maxwell; Committeeman John Kehm Jr.; Mayor Blaise Scibetta; Seacrest team members Melanie Crawford, Kimberly Hoffman, Jacqueline Phillips and Ralph Neuman; and Committeemen Ray Gormley and Ken Laney.
“At Seacrest, it is our true honor to provide the highest quality of care for seniors,” said Seacrest’s Jacqueline Phillips, director of community relations. “We are beyond grateful for this recognition from Mayor Scibetta and proud to be a part of Little Egg Harbor’s special community.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 55 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. To learn more about the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and ongoing research in search of a cure, visit alz.org.
Located at 1001 Center Street, Seacrest, which is undergoing a multi-million-dollar enhancement, carries a five-star designation from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for both overall quality and quality of resident care. The 171-bed skilled nursing facility offers a secure and nurturing neighborhood for those in need of memory care and support. The Terraces at Seacrest Village, a nearby assisted living community, provides a memory care setting for those in earlier stages of dementia. More information on Seacrest Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center can be found at seacrestrehabhc.com.
Relay For Life Of Berkeley/Lacey
BAYVILLE – Relay for Life will be on August 12 to 13 from 12 p.m. to 7 a.m. at Veterans Park, 9 Tilton Boulevard, Bayville.
Relay For Life is the world’s largest volunteer-based fundraising event. For more
than 36 years, communities across the world have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change.
For more information, contact Robyn Griffith at rnofgnt@yahoo.com or 848-333-7318.
Local Pets Available For Adoption
LACEY – The Associated Humane Society shelter at the Popcorn Park Zoo has pets available for adoption.
Suzie is an incredibly friendly girl of just over 5 years old that wants more than anything to be back in a good home. When you think about the trauma that a pet must go through, having lived all their life in a home then going to an unfamiliar place, it’s amazing how resilient they really are.
Suzie has been in a home since kittenhood and she grew up with a big, loving family. Sadly, the landlord said she had to go. Suzie is so resilient and is not going to let this get her down! She reaches out a paw at everyone that comes her way to get attention and be petted. She’s super sweet, loving, and playful too. She loves to bat around toys or just have your attention. When a neighboring kitten tried to play with her, Suzie didn’t know what to make of her, so she may do best with a cat that doesn’t
•
•
Photo courtesy AHS
get in her personal space constantly. Call 609-693-1900, visit ahscares. org/forked-river-adoptables or email: office@ahsppz.org for an adoption application.
NGXB Will Be “Rockin’ The Hits”
Dr. Edward Burg
Dr. Duncan Chapple
Dr. William Dennis
Dr. Anthony LoPresti
courtesy of
SURF CITY – Itching for classic rock of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s? NGXB has your remedy. The dynamic pianist-arranger will be “Rockin’ the Hits on 88 Keys” at the Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch, 2 p.m. August 5.
The dazzling entertainer glides through his solo performances with practically no singing, carrying audiences with keyboard wizardry, an imposing stage presence and a sparkling personality.
After winning the PBS “Celebration of Music” of the Greater Lehigh Valley/Philadelphia in 2018, NGXB filmed the national
version
Los
He’s in demand in clubs, hotel showrooms, restaurants, and stadia throughout the East Coast.
In addition, the University of the Arts graduate reaches more than a million followers on social media platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Registration at theoceancountylibrary. org/events is required for this free program, sponsored by Ocean County Library Senior Services.
For more information, visit the LBI Branch, 217 South Central Avenue, Surf City, or call 609-494-2480.
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HANDLING:
• Criminal matters
• Municipal Courts
• Divorces Custody
• Child support
• Restraining Orders
• Accidents
• Immigration
ATTORNEY
ALCANTARA SPEAKS:
• Spanish
• Italian
• French and
• some Russian
• Portuguse and
• Ladino
EMAIL: Jda84375@gmail.com
Now Is A Good Time To Plan Your Spring Garden
STAFFORD – Autumn is ideal to plan, purchase, and plant the bulbs that will blossom in your garden next spring. Take timely tips from Rutgers Master Gardener of Ocean County Deborah McCabe at 10:30 a.m. August 14, in the Ocean County Library Stafford Branch.
Deborah will explain design, layout, and bulb choices, will offer recommendations for planting, growing, and maintenance, and will demonstrate container bulb planting.
A five-year member of the Master Gardeners of Ocean County, Deborah chairs the Master Gardeners Stafford Library Outreach and also volunteers at the township’s Mill Creek Community Garden. She traces her interest in gardening to her father, who planted, planted, planted – initially as
a farmer, and later as a grounds caretaker. Rutgers Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who present horticulture programs developed by the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) Cooperative Extension.
Bring your garden questions and plant or insect samples to Master Gardeners for diagnosis and recommendations in the OCL Stafford Branch, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month, through September.
Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events for this free program. For more information, visit the OCL Stafford Branch, 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin, or call 609-597-3381.
National Night Out
STAFFORD – This year’s National Night Out will be one to remember! Not only will it be a full night of free fun for the family, but it will conclude with the Fireworks Display you all know and love. National Night Out will be on August 1
from 5 p.m. to dusk at Doc Cramer Ball Fields. All National Night Out activities will be moved to the Doc Cramer Ball Fields. Stay tuned for more exciting information on activities for this year’s event.
Ship Bottom Volunteer Fire Company Launches Recruitment Campaign
SHIP BOTTOM – Ship Bottom Volunteer Fire Company is an exciting place to volunteer! Fires, water rescues and vehicle rescue calls keep volunteers busy saving lives and protecting property. That is why Ship Bottom has launched a four-year recruitment campaign to grow the volunteer base of seasonal and year-round lifesavers. No experience is needed and all training and gear are provided at no charge.
To kick off the campaign, volunteers participated in a branding process which led the slogan “Neighbors Saving Neighbors from Land to Sea.” The tagline is intended to showcase the range of lifesaving coverage the fire company provides, coverage that spans all the way down to 85th Street with the inclusion of Brant Beach and mutual aid within Surf City.
A new recruitment website, ShipBottomFirefighters.org will be used throughout the campaign to learn more about the fire company and the seasonal and all-year opportunities available. Website visitors can fill out a short inquiry form to express their interest in volunteering. In addition, social media management, yard signs, brochures, targeted face-to-face recruitment program, a recruitment video, and more are included in the campaign.
Ship Bottom Fire Company’s recruitment campaign will run for four years, and comes at no cost to taxpayers. This is being funded in its’ entirety through the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grant by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Opportunities For All
Whether it is responding to fire calls, rescuing people from cars or the ocean, managing traffic and crowd control at an emergency or helping out at the fire company, volunteer opportunities are
plentiful! Residents interested in getting involved should keep in mind that no prior experience is necessary since training will be provided for free.
The following volunteer opportunities are available for seasonal or all-year residents:
Firefighter: Our volunteer firefighters are trained and prepared to handle any situation such as fires, water rescues, car accidents and other emergencies. All training and gear are provided at no charge.
Water Rescue : Put your lifesaving skills to work as a member of our water rescue volunteer team. In addition to Ship Bottom, our coverage area includes Brant Beach and we provide mutual aid to Surf City.
Junior Firefighter: Teen volunteers will be trained on how to assist on fire calls, run the hose and assist with ladders. Once 18, juniors can become active volunteer firefighters with Ship Bottom or pursue an emergency services career.
Fire Police: Help bring calm and order to a stressful situation by directing traffic and crowd control at the scene of emergencies.
Administrative Volunteers: Put your talents and skills to work in a non-firefighting role at the fire company or in the community on our behalf. Let us know your interests and we will identify the perfect role for you! Administrative, fundraising, event support truck maintenance and many more opportunities exist.
“We have volunteer opportunities for everyone, whether you live here only in the summer or all year long. Join us, train with us and start saving the lives of your neighbors. There is nothing more rewarding than that,” says Chief Todd MacLennan.
For more information or to fill out an inquiry form, visit ShipBottomFirefighters.org.
www.TallwoodsCareCenter.com
Volleyball:
Continued From Page 1
“It just means that we are doing something right,” he said. “All of the methods that we use and the lessons that we are trying to teach are paying off on some level. How do you become successful in anything? Hard work, passion, commitment, responsibility, desire, etc. When you bring hard work and enthusiasm to any aspect in life, it gives you a chance to be successful. That is at the root of what we are trying to accomplish. You need a strong foundation. We try to help build that foundation. And we try to help mold good people.”
Southern has won 13 South Jersey sectional titles. The Rams have earned seven No. 1 state rankings. They have been ranked among the state’s top five teams in 20 straight seasons. They have won 20 consecutive Shore Conference division titles from 2003-2023. They own 13 Shore Conference Tournament titles. They are 331-7 all-time against Shore Conference opponents.
Also assisting on coaching duties were Brian Roberts (2002-2004), Emin Tanrikulu (20052007), Mike Benedict (2005, 2006, 2008 and 2009), Leith Wenrich (2007), Paul Lovas (2008-2018), Ryan Fredrickson (2010-2013, 2017-2023), Todd Elsasser (2014-2015) and Eric Sharkey (2016-2023). Wenrich, Fredrickson, Elsasser and Sharkey played under Maxwell.
“I have been blessed with some great individuals on my coaching staff,” Maxwell said. “I need people who know the game of volleyball, but more importantly I need good people ... solid people with good values and morals who are capable of teaching young men how to be good human beings. In our program, that is where we start. We want our young men to understand the values like hard work, responsibility, commitment, trustworthiness and reliability, etc. If we can get kids
to buy into those qualities, we can get them to perform for us on the court. I have had coaches who model those behaviors so that our players understand what that looks like.”
Maxwell’s girls team won the Group IV state title in 2008. The Rams bested favored Hunterdon Central in the championship match.
“It was one of great team chemistry as well,” he said. “It was an incredibly hard working group from day one that season that had its sights set on something extremely high. We had been on the edge of greatness for a few years prior. We kept knocking on the door. I believe that Hunterdon Central had won the previous two Group IV state titles. So again, one of the things that plays into this is that you have to keep working hard every day and keep improving. Work on your game. Recognize your weaknesses and don’t allow an opponent to outwork you.”
They have been ranked among the state’s top 20 teams in 14 seasons. Cathy Maxwell, who coached the Rams from 1999-2001, posted a 50-17 overall record. The Rams won Shore Conference division titles from 2002-2014 and 2017-2022.
Southern won Shore Conference Tournament titles from 2004-2008 and in 2010, 2012, 2013, 2019 and 2022. The Rams are 369-40 all-time against Shore Conference opponents. They were Olympic Conference champions from 2003-2005.
“I am still having so much fun coaching the girls and boys teams,” said Maxwell, a United States history teacher at Southern. “There is no set plan to stop. I love the daily grind of preparing a team and going through the whole process of watching a team mature and develop team chemistry. And then there is the stretch run of postseason play. That gets the juices flowing. And the ultimate is to celebrate success. And to see the joy of your players celebrating what they worked so hard for.”
368 Lakehurst Road | Suite 305 Toms River, NJ 08755 732-473-1123
1301 Rte 72 | Ste 305 | Manahawkin, NJ 08050 609-597-9195
211 W Millstream Road Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-9595
Dr. Izzy’s
Sound News
Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)
Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.
Rechargeable Versus Battery Operated Hearing Aids
The majority of my patients (80%) prefer the convenience of not having to replace batteries every 3-7 days along with opening and closing the battery door on a daily basis. The newer lithium-ion batteries will typically give you 20 hours of charge and you should rarely run out of charge while wearing the hearing aids throughout the day. You will have the option of choosing either a “standard” charger or “premium” charger. Always choose the premium charge because if you lose electricity in your home, the charger has a 2-3-day reserve charge. Rechargeable hearing aids are extremely moisture resistant so sweating is generally not an issue. For many years, those individuals wearing hearing aids with disposable batteries were subject to moisture seeping into the battery door and corroding the inside of the battery door and eventually screwing up the circuit. These issues are practically eliminated with re-
chargeable 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 732-8183610 (Toms River/Whiting) or Manahawkin (609-978-8946).
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.
Ocean County Historical Society Seeks Volunteers
OCEAN COUNTY – Volunteers of the Ocean County Historical Society conduct research in the library, assist with visitors, guide tours, install exhibits, catalog records and archives, work with collections, and help with various administrative duties.
Currently, the society is looking for volunteers. Volunteer placement is based on interests, skills, life experiences as well as the needs of the society.
Here are some examples of volunteer opportunities:
Education – Be a docent/tour guide by leading visitors, including school
groups, around the museum and sharing both our permanent and temporary exhibits.
Research Center – Improve access to and preservation of historical documents; edit and update records in the digitized catalog; maintain and document collections of printed materials and photographs; create titles for manuscript collections; respond to research and genealogy inquiries.
Museum/Collections – Research objects in the society’s museum collection; assist with exhibition research and mounting of exhibits; respond to inquiries about the collection; assist with cataloguing the
inventory of artifacts.
Imaging – Assist with the cataloging of photographs and reproductions of collection materials.
Public Relations and Marketing – Assist with mailings to members and donors, assist with calendar updates to the media; assist with press releases for public relations related projects.
Gardens and Grounds – Assist in maintaining the society’s Victorian gardens and grounds by planting, mulching, fertilizing, watering, weeding and deadheading.
Administrative – Meeting and greeting visitors; answering the telephone; as -
sisting with filing, organizing supplies, preparing mailings, taking photographs
Publications – Writing, editing, and publishing works relevant to the history of Ocean County.
Development – Assist with fundraising activities including grant writing.
Volunteers are essential to the society, its museum and its research center. Become a volunteer at the Ocean County Historical Society. Request an application by calling: 732-341-1880 or emailing oceancounty.history@verizon.net. You can also download a form directly from oceancountyhistory.org and then submit the completed form online to the society.
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)
CLASSIFIEDS
Services 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)
Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus. Filing/Answering Phones/ Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m.
- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)
R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)
Are you bored? Looking for something to do? We are looking for the “Young at Heart”. Be part of the Merri-Makers Ambassador team! Start pay is $15 an hour with guaranteed tips, and a very flexible schedule. For more information contact Jessica at mmhiring@merrimakers.com or call 732-225-0009 (33)
PT Janitor/Handyman position - Hours 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 5 days a week. Send resume to: admin@holidayheights.com. (33)
Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company.
E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)
Services
Want to perform your best at sports, work, or anywhere else?
Call/message me at 732-209-4125 for free discovery call! (33)
Compassionate, Experienced 24/7 Caregiver - Will Take Care of Your Elderly Loved Ones: Companionship, Personal Hygiene, Meal Preparations, Medication Reminders, Help w/ Errands, Laundry, Housekeeping. Call: 732-867 6686 Nina. (33)
Services Services Services
Absolute best home improvements!"Building the shore since 1984" Additions, carpentry, windows & doors, roofing & siding, painting & staining, flooring, kitchens & baths, finished basements, masonry, fencing, custom decks, fully insured, license #13VH11804800. $ave. Call Brien 732-850-5060. (28)
Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs. Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (26)
ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605. (t/n)
Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-791-2033 or visit dorranceinfo.com/micro. (t/n)
Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)
Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)
APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)
Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)
PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)
Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)
Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477. (t/n)
Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)
Do You Want Your Car To Look
Nice and Shine? - Call Lenny, Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (28)
ESTATE CLEANOUTS -
Properties, Houses, Attics, Garages, Sheds, Storage Units, ect. Handyman Disposal provided 901a Dumpster Service LLC. Licensed, Insured, call or text Jim 609-335-0330. (27)
Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums from a NJ State Certified Teacher of instrumental music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (33)
Stillwell Services LLC - Handyman services, drain cleaning, camera inspections, bathroom remodeling, sewer repair, leak detection, excavation services. Licensed, insured. 609-346-4243. (32)
C.B.J. ROOFING - Covering the jersey shore since 1984. All work guaranteed. We will beat ANY legitimate estimate. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (20)
Computer Tutoring for Seniors – Retired, “Microsoft Certified” instructor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n)
CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (28)
THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-2163176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n)
CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.
1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:
• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales
• Items Wanted
• For Rent
• Auto For Sale
• Help Wanted
• Real Estate
• Items For Sale
• Services
• Other
2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.
You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.
Calculate Price As Follows:
3.
1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $
2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $
3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $
4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $
*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.
Total = $
4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS – NO DISCOVER – info. below:
• Decks
• Doors
EXPERT WORKMANSHIP - Carpentry
• Windows
• Flooring
• Vinyl
Credit Card# Exp.
Railings
• Tile
• New • Repairs Welcomed. Licensed, Insured. 609-384-9030. (32)
GARDEN COACH ASSISTS SENIORS & DIY's - Create & maintain beautiful containers, repotting. Planting design, selection, plant care. Experienced (Master) Gardener/ Instructor. Joseph 732-232-8144. (29)
Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-855-634-0529. (t/n)
A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267-475-7962. (22)
Experienced and reliable Home Health Care Group - Is ready to assist you hourly or 24/7 according to your special needs. Personal care, companionship, groccery shopping, driving to dr's appointments, medication monitoring etc. Refferences available. Call for more details 732-910-8869. (34)
MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (46)
LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)
Cardholder Signature:
Print Name:
5. MAIL TO : PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.
Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388. Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.
6. Please include your BIlling address and contact phone number (this is required)
Address Town ZIP
Phone Number
Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publications)
CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.
If you have any questions, please call Ali 732-657-7344 ext. 203.
Southern Ocean Medical Center Foundation To Host Annual Signature Social
MANHAWKIN – On August 4, Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center Foundation, will host its annual Signature Social at Bonnet Island Estate in Manahawkin. Proceeds from the event will support Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center’s surgical expansion project and the transformation of the hospital’s entire surgical suite.
The surgical expansion project, which is slated to cost $25 million and span 30 months, includes the expansion of six state-of-the-art operating rooms, which will allow physicians to accommodate local and minor procedures, and the extension of the sterile processing department.
“Our surgical expansion project will enable Southern Ocean Medical Center to provide our patients with the most innovative surgical care in a cutting-edge suite right within our community,” said Michele Morrison, president and chief hospital executive, Southern Ocean Medical Center. “Our medical center has not undergone any major enhancements or renovations in the last 20 years, and I am looking forward to an evening with our community to raise funds in celebration of Southern Ocean Medical Center’s impending surgical suite transformation!”
The project will greatly reduce patients’ wait times and comes during a time when there is great growth taking place throughout southern Ocean County. Over the last decade, the hospital has increased its services to accommodate the significant increase of people making Ocean County their full-time residence –especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our fantastic community of supporters is truly invested in what we aim to accomplish to benefit surgical care here in Southern Ocean county,” said James Young, executive director, Southern Ocean Medical Center Foundation. “Their generosity allows us to advance care in many ways and I look forward to seeing everyone at our Signature Social!”
The Signature Social is generously supported by Celebration Sponsors: Hackensack Meridian Health Southern Ocean Medical Center Medical Staff.
To purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit GiveHMH.org/SOMCSocial. To learn how you can support Southern Ocean Medical Center’s surgical expansion, contact James Young at james.young@hmhn.org or 609-978-3040.
Pinelands Flora And Fauna
SURF CITY – Pinelands Flora and Fauna will be presented by Joel M. Mott, Principal Public Programs Specialist for the NJ Pinelands Commission at the Long Beach Island Library August 4 at 2 p.m.
This presentation includes the sights and sounds of the Pinelands while taking the audience on a walk in the woods familiarizing them with the wildlife of the legendary Pine Barrens.
Over the years living and working in the area Mott has experienced many of these up-close and will discuss iconic species like the Pine Barrens tree frog and the timber rattle snake but also include lesser-known inhabitants like the flying squirrel and bushy beard grass. Light refreshments will be served. Registration at theoceancountylibrary.org/events is required for this free program, sponsored by the Friends of the Island Library.
For more information, visit the LBI Branch, 217 South Central Avenue, Surf City, or call 609-494-2480.
Adopt-a-Tree Program
STAFFORD – Mayor Myhre and Township Council would like to announce that the 2023 Adopt-a-Tree Program has begun and runs through September 15. Visit staffordnj.gov/418/Adopt-A-Tree to download the brochure and order form. Contact Rachel Giolitto at 609-597-1000 ext. 8509 or email rgiolitto@staffordnj.gov for complete details.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
an” by Sherlock Holmes
9 Dos y dos 10 Suitable
11 “__ on it”: “You can be sure”
12 Best 13 Experience schoolyard highs and lows?
14 Should, informally 19 Hobby shop buys
SUDOKU
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.
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 KitchenPASTA ALLA ZOZZONA
Serves 4
5 ounces guanciale
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
5 ounces sweet Italian sausage, casings removed, broken into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3/4 cup passata
8 ounces rigatoni
Table salt for cooking pasta
1 ounce Pecorino Romano cheese, grated fine (1/2 cup), plus extra for serving
2 large egg yolks
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1. Slice guanciale into 1/4-inch-thick strips, then cut each strip crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces. Heat guanciale and oil in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fat is rendered and guanciale is starting to brown, 4 to 6 minutes.
2. Add sausage and onion and cook, using
a wooden spoon to break meat into pieces no larger than 1/2 inch, until sausage is no longer pink, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in passata; reduce heat to medium-low; and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until fat is fully incorporated, 2 to 4 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, bring 2 quarts water to boil in a large pot. Add pasta and 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring often, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup cooking water, then drain pasta and return it to the pot. Add tomato-meat sauce to pasta. Set pot over medium-low heat and stir until pasta is well coated, about 1 minute.
4. Whisk Pecorino, egg yolks, and pepper in a medium bowl until combined. Slowly whisk 1/2 cup of reserved cooking water into egg yolk mixture (mixture will not be smooth). Off heat, stir egg yolk mixture into pasta until sauce looks glossy and is slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Adjust sauce consistency with remaining reserved cooking water if needed. Transfer pasta to platter and serve immediately, passing extra Pecorino separately.
(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.
