TheTOMS RIVER Times Vol. 19 - No. 33
In This Week’s Edition
MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS
Longtime County Leader Vicari Bids Farewell To Public Office
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Photos By Bob Vosseller Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari reflects on his long career in public office. By Bob Vosseller OCEAN COUNTY – He’s been a fixture in county politics for more than four decades and his name was conspicuously absent from the ballot this year in the slot of Ocean County Commissioner. Joseph H. Vicari, the longest serving freeholder/commissioner in the state, is saying farewell. He first became freeholder in 1982. His sunset from public office however comes
with many fond memories, some challenging times and a host of accomplishments. In his private life he served as a teacher of English a nd social st ud ies, school supervisor, and principal at Veterans Memorial Elementary School in Brick from 1994 to 2003. He became superintendent of the Berkeley Township School District in 20032010 and 2011-2012. Vicari is concluding his 14 th ter m as
an Ocean Count y Commissioner, a title previously known as Freeholder. He served this year as director of the board, a position he has held a dozen times. From 1979 to 1994, he served as a member of the Dover Township Committee (now k nown as the Toms River Township Council). He served as mayor and also as police commissioner of the township for five terms. He grew up in Jersey City and it was his father who inspired him to go into politics. “I grew up in downtown Jersey City, an urban area, poorest section and I worked for the family business which was a butcher because my father was a butcher and my grandfather,” Vicari said. “W hen my father (Vicari - See Page 4)
December 23, 2023
“Heroes Against Hate” Honored By Stephanie Faughnan TOMS RIVER - The Jewish Federation of Ocean County recently hosted its annual “Heroes Against Hate” event to celebrate individuals committed to combatting the rising tide of antisemitism and hate in the community. An annual occurrence, this year’s event took on added significance due to increased attention to the Jewish community because of the war in Israel. Keith Krivitzky, the Managing Director of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County, served as the host for the event, held at the Jazmin Loft. “We call it our community caring event because, as the Jewish Federation, we want to embody that value in the community the Jewish community and the broader Ocean County community,”
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Recipients of the Heroes Against Hate with members of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County’s Community of Caring committee. explained Krivitzky. However, recent years have seen the celebration take on a more urgent tone, as the region grapples with a troubling surge in hate and antisemitic incidents. Recognizing the need for proactive measures, Krivitzky emphasized the importance of not merely condemning hate but actively encouraging individuals to become “upstanders.” The term reflects
a commitment to standing up against hate, bigotry, and bias whenever encountered. “The best way to combat this isn’t just for the people affected to say, ‘That’s bad. Don’t do that,’” asserted Krivitzky. “It’s to encourage others to be called upstanders, to encourage others to stand up when they see hate, when they see bigotry, when (Prosecutor See Page 4)
This Month In History: How Well Do You Know Toms River? By J. Mark Mutter TOMS RIVER - To wrap up the year, some fun - a quiz on our local history! The answers are at the end of this column. No peeking! 1. Which European explorer first discovered what we know today as the Barnegat Bay? A. John Cabot B. Christopher Columbus C. Henry Hudson D. Giovanni da Verrazzano 2. In the historic “Blizzard of ‘88” - March 11 to 14 in 1888 - snow drifts of up to 15 feet were reported. What happened in Toms River?
A. Telegraphic wires were downed B. Rail service stopped C. The downtown village was completely isolated D. All of the above 3. How many women mayors has the township had in its history? A. One B. Two C. Three D. None 4. During the Second World War, an organization known as the “Toms River Service Center” provided a place of rest, relaxation, and
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comfort for the men and women in military service. The Center was run and supported by: A. The First Baptist Church B. The First Presbyterian Church C. The Confederation of Jewish Farmers D. All of the above 5. In 2006, our town’s name was changed from the “Township of Dover” to the “Township of Toms River.” There was a prior effort to change our name in: A. 1987 B. In the 1850s C. In 1799 D. All of the above
6. The Toms River Country Club located along the Toms River was once a 100 acre farm owned by a local lawyer, John Peter Haines. He was the president of the: A. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals B. American Red Cross C. Salvation Army D. First National Bank of Toms River 7. In the presidential elections of 1860 and 1864, Abraham Lincoln lost New Jersey both times. How did he do in Dover Township? 8. What Hollywood movie was filmed in (History - See Page 5)
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Vicari:
Continued From Page 1 (Hugo Vicari) came back from World War II he bought a business in downtown Jersey City.” That business used to be a barber shop owned by Joseph Mastronardy, grandfather of Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. Hugo Vicari converted it to a butcher shop. “My sister was born while my father was serving as an Army medic during the Battle of the Bulge. He came back and wanted to own his own business and his own identity.” As he looked at some of the photographs and news clippings that featured his father that were in his office at the County Administration building, Vicari said “my father believed in something that was very important and that he instilled in me and all of his children - the importance of education. My father liked being a butcher but under the GI Bill he went to law school.”
Prosecutor:
Continued From Page 1 they see bias - to be front and center and vocal with their concern. That, we think, is the best way to try and counter hate in our society.” Krivitsky reported that Ocean County leads the state in the number of antisemitic incidents. Additionally, Krivitsky noted that various surveys place New Jersey as the fourth-highest state in the nation concerning the number of hate groups. Committee members of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County took turns presenting this year’s honorees. Rabbi Stephen Gold introduced Caroline Winn, the youngest Hero Against Hate. Caroline is an eighthgrade student at Toms River Intermediate North. “The Jewish Federation of Ocean County nominated Caroline because she heard fellow students at her school making antisemitic comments,” said Gold. “And she decided to do something about it.” Caroline received recognition for the way she decided to attack the issue. She crafted a Google slideshow addressing Jewish education, driven by the belief that dispelling ignorance could diminish stereotypes and shame. She intends to make the presentation accessible to other schools and organizations, including the Girl Scouts. “I think it’s important to stand up for others,” Caroline said as she accepted the award. “Even if no one else is.” Shelly Newman, the secretary of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County, subsequently delivered the presentation to honor the Toms River Jewish Community Council (TRJCC). Newman recalled attending the council’s inaugural meeting several years ago, citing its establishment as a response to heightened tension and conf lict in the com mu nit y. Or iginating f rom a core group of 11 local businessmen, the
“We worked hard. I’m second-generation Italian-American, my father was first generation but I am American, always American, never hyphened or anything else. He instilled in me hard work, education and giving something back to the community,” Vicari added. He showed another photo featuring his father with the Volunteers of America. “When he was in the Battle of the Bulge, he didn’t have a nickel for a cup of coffee and a donut so every holiday season, my father was with Volunteers of America and every time I see them, I will always give to them.” During his time as commissioner, Vicari spearheaded a program to support the local business community that has been adopted by local chambers of commerce and business associations; he worked with the Ocean County Workforce Investment Board to obtain grants and worked with affiliated agencies in job training and retraining. He is also proud of his work as liaison to the county’s Senior Services Office - over-
seeing programs and obtaining grants for the county’s most vulnerable citizens. He is also the long-time liaison to the library system. He also served as liaison to the Ocean County Vocational-Technical School and worked with tourism and non-profit organizations to provide matching tourism promotional economic grants to promote family-oriented, environmentally-friendly industries to help stabilize the tax rate and brought in around $7 billion into the county in tourism expenditures. Vicari, who has been a resident of Ocean County since 1969, spoke proudly of his wife Joyce and their two children and two grandchildren. Public service was what led him to entering politics. “I understand the potential of a human being that if you work hard, you can achieve anything.” When he returned to the role of Berkeley Township Superintendent, “I gave back the $250,000 so it could be used to save jobs for special needs. My heart has always been toward early child development and
those with disabilities.” He said he felt a good portion of his legacy concerned seniors. “We have excellent programs for our seniors but they need help and we have to make sure no one goes hungry and there is no waiting list.” He recalled the late Freeholder John Bartlett who he also had a photo of. “We didn’t always agree. We agreed most of the time but he helped me grow.” Vicari said he’d like to see more young people get involved in politics. Vicari noted that “Warren Wolf had a great influence on me. He was a good man who never said anything negative and was a very moral person. He helped people and made a change in Brick Township. He loved people, loved people and did the right thing.” “I am concerned now about the younger generations. I love helping people and I am an educator. I read a lot and speak to a lot of smart people - not just people who think like I do - but people who think outside the box. You have to be innovative and you have to look at the future. Reach high!”
council was formed with the purpose of fostering dialogue and conversation. The organization received its nomination for their diligent efforts in sowing the seeds of tolerance and understanding within the community. Their commitment includes active participation in community events, meetings, and volunteer work. “They will attend meetings with members of the community who are less tolerant to educate them,” added Newman. “And demonstrate for them that members of the Orthodox Jewish community want nothing more than to live in harmony with their non-Jewish neighbors.” Four members of the TRJCC, Sam Ellenbagen, Booky Kaliszynen, Meir Kubie, and Michael Waldner, attended the special event where the group were recognized as heroes. Waldner delivered prepared remarks, saying the group is generally more inclined to stay out of the spotlight. “We begrudgingly accepted this honor,” shared Waldner. “In the hopes, it can in any way inspire even a single person to stand up with the good people of our times and enhance the life of even one human being. We live in quite precarious times when the world refuses to distinguish right from wrong; good from evil.” Federation Committee member Laurie Keleti introduced two college students, honored for their work while in high school. Jasmine and Mateo Guarin, graduates of Toms River High School South, initiated the Community Ambassadors Club, collaborating closely with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s office. They aimed to foster unity among students irrespective of their ethnicity, culture, religion, or heritage. A similar club was also introduced into Lakewood High School. The primary focus of the club’s work was centered on reconciliation, encouraging uncomfor table and vulnerable
conversations with individuals from diverse backgrounds. The group’s efforts extended into the Hispanic, Jewish, and African American communities, fostering dialogue to build mutual respect. Now a student at Cornell University, Jasmine said that she has personally witnessed antisemitic crimes and terroristic threats to her own neighbors. “I had never really experienced that before, “Jasmine shared. “I’ve never really been at the center of what hate really looks like. True hate, and really learning how to stand in unity with people who seek the higher goods of the good of others, and learning how to seek justice for those who cannot speak up or who are afraid to speak up.” Mateo, a Princeton University freshman, said that he and Jasmine started the club at the middle school level and then brought it to the high school. He said that many of the other participants were carrying on the same mission at Ocean County College. Mateo urged those at the gathering to connect with them. “We’re confident and adamant in our role to stand against hate, and to call out hate,” added Mateo. “Courage and boldness are required in this area of work.” Fran Gimpel of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County introduced Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer as this year’s final hero award recipient. She first commended Ocean County’s chief law enforcement officer for taking a stance against hate as a priority. “He is being honored to help him to create diversity clubs in schools, creating a volunteer Human Relations Council, and working with our coalition of partners on our student leadership conferences, encouraging students to be upstanders,” she said. Billhimer expressed gratitude towards the Federation, while also extending appreciation to the other honorees for their contributions in combating bigotry.
Additionally, Billheimer acknowledged the individuals within his office who have supported what he deemed a crucial mission since assuming the role of prosecutor in 2018. “I think working with Jasmine and Mateo got me to thinking how we have to change the hearts and minds of people in the schools,” shared Billhimer. “ And – their parents. It’s a full-time job.” As part of that commitment, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has offered schools the opportunity to participate in Challenge Day. The comprehensive daylong program involves youth and their communities in activities that illustrate the potential for love and connection, emphasizing the celebration of diversity, truth, and full expression. The Ocean County Prosecutor then shared some statistics about the current state of bias crimes, saying the bad news is the numbers are up. Billheimer also said that he believes that a number of incidents and crimes are underreported because people are afraid to come forward. “It’s not just antisemitic behavior, it’s antiblack and brown, and anti-Asian,” said Billheimer. “All the numbers are up.” Billheimer said he has been encouraging people to come forward since he first took office in 2018. “We need to know about it, so we can investigate it,” Billheimer encouraged. “And we can build a case and have the evidence, we will charge that case and we will prosecute that case to the fullest extent of the law. That is our duty and that’s what we’ll do.” Other Ocean County officials who attended the Heroes Against Hate event included Commissioners Bobbi Jo Crea and Ginny Haines, as well as Tim Hart in his capacity of Division Director of the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission. Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy was also present, and shared brief remarks concerning his recent visit to Israel.
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History:
Continued From Page 1 Toms River in 1979? A. Friday the 13th B. The Amityville Horror C. Halloween D. House on Haunted Hill 9. What year did the Law Enforcement Center on Oak Avenue open? A. 1967 B. 1975 C. 1976 D. 1995 10. The lifeguard building in Ortley Beach is called the “Lord House.” Where did it get its name? A. Lord Cornbury, the first royal governor of the province of New Jersey B. The Lord family who once owned the building which became the lifeguard headquarters C. Lord Nelson of the British Royal Navy D. We don’t know 11. How many election districts are there in the township today? A. 63 B. 55 C. 43 D. 28 12. The Toms River Veterans Recreation Complex and Park on North Bay Avenue was once a: A. Dairy farm B. Poultry farm C. Woods
The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 5 D. Golf course 13. What was the first year that students graduated from the Toms River schools? A. 1850 B. 1891 C. 1917 D. 1925 14. The township has an official motto, in Latin: “Homo Cogitat, Deus Indicat.” What does this mean in English? A. Out of many, one B. God is our vindicator C. Man thinks, God directs D. Liberty, equality, fraternity 15. Which is our first municipal park? A. Huddy Park B. Cattus Island Park C. Silverton Park D. Winding River Park 16. In local sports history, what happened 25 years ago in 1998? A. Toms River North’s High School football team won the state championship B. The Toms River YMCA opened C. Toms River East won the Little League World Series D. Bey Lea Municipal Golf Course opened 17. Has anyone from Toms River ever won the Nobel Peace Prize? 18. The first known written record of a place known as Toms River is in a: A. Map B. Bible C. Diary D. Newspaper 19. Where did Toms River get its name from? A. A pirate named “Captain Tom” who sup-
posedly buried treasure in the Money Island section of the township B. “Indian Tom” - an indigenous person from the area from a Lenni Lenape tribe C. Thomas Luker, an Englishman, who settled here circa 1685 and married the local chieftain’s daughter D. We don’t know 20. Where did Dover Township get its name from? A. The white cliffs of Dover B. The town of Dover in southeastern England C. The baron Thomas von Dover of the County of Kent D. We don’t know ANSWERS 1. C - Henry Hudson. An Englishman, sailing for the Dutch East India Company in 1609, he was in search of a trade route to the Far East. He sailed through a body of water, on his ship the “Half Moon,” and had it recorded in the Dutch language in the ship’s journal as “barendgat” - a place “where the waters breaketh.” Today, we know it as the Barnegat Inlet. Hudson described the bay as a “great lake.” 2. D - All of the answers. The New Jersey Courier, the town’s then weekly newspaper, after it resumed production after the storm, reported downed wires, no rail service, and a desolate village. When postal deliveries resumed by rail service, the town’s train station was inundated with mail. 3. A - One. Ethel A. Zaun was mayor in 1974 under the old Township Committee form of government which selected the chairperson of the committee, or mayor, annually, from
(History - See Page 20)
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amongst the committee members. When she ran for re-election in 1974, she lost by 17 votes. 4. D - All of the answers. The Service Center was run by a local ecumenical group of organizations and had its headquarters downtown. It provided soft drinks and snacks, and there were books and magazines, and a radio. The township did not have a local USO during WWII. 5. D - All of the answers. In 1987, the same name change question was asked and was narrowly defeated by the voters. In the 1850s there were two separate efforts. One was to rename the town “Huddyville” in honor of Joshua Huddy, the American patriot who defended the village from British attack during the Revolutionary War. A second was to name it after William Dayton, a Freehold lawyer, who ran for vice president in 1856 and lost. In 1799, the Township Committee passed a resolution suggesting the re-naming of the town in honor of George Washington. All of those efforts failed. In 2006, the idea finally succeeded when 61 percent of the voters approved of the change to Toms River. The change became official when the township clerk (me!) entered the result of the election into the town minutes book during the first Council meeting of the newly named township. Hundreds of citizens attended the historic meeting which was filled with pomp and circumstance. 6. A - The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. He was its third president and served from 1899 to 1906. The Haines farm would become the Cranmoor
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Spotlight On Government Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Ready For NJ’s Close-Up: Continuing To Welcome The Film Industry Capitol Comments NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan
When Oscar-worthy movies or critically acclaimed shows are filmed in New Jersey, it’s more than just glitz and glam. It goes beyond A-list celebrity sightings and lavish wrap parties. Sure, it’s bragworthy when a top film franchise or high-rated television show is filmed in your hometown and it’s fun to point out iconic landmarks when they appear on the screen. But when Tinseltown meets the Garden State, what does it mean for everyday New Jerseyans? With the actors and writers strikes now resolved, New Jersey’s film industry is back open for business. I recently led a delegation of state officials on a trip to California to pitch the value of filming in New Jersey. We met with executives from major studios and production companies who are excited to start filming in the Garden State. This is good news for New Jersey because when productions film in our state, it creates good-paying jobs, sup-
ports small businesses and strengthens our economy. Since Gov. Phil Murphy took office in 2018, New Jersey’s film industry has exploded. With the help of the Film & Digital Media Tax Credit, which Murphy enacted in his first term, production spending skyrocketed from $67 million to over $700 million annually over the past five years. From 2021 to 2022 alone, production spending increased by $150 million. Last year, the film industry created 8,500 jobs across New Jersey, a majority of which were union jobs. When productions set up shop in the state, they need security, stage and film crew, set designers, and support staff. Local vendors such as construction and transportation services, as well as costume and florist shops are also needed during productions. Plus, the cast and crew need to eat during long hours of filming! Local mom and pop bistros, bakeries, and restaurants benefit when productions are in town. Across the state, productions have supported the revitalization of small towns and big cities, provided a boost
to the local economies, and employed thousands of residents. This is just the beginning, and New Jersey is poised to build upon this momentum. Last December, Netflix announced a $1 billion investment to build its East Coast flagship production studio at Fort Monmouth, creating 3,500 construction jobs and 1,500 permanent jobs, all while marking an extraordinary chapter in the redevelopment of the Fort after its closure over a decade ago. To the north, Lionsgate is building a major studio in Newark, and the largest ground-up movie studio complex in North America, 1888 Studios, will soon call Bayonne home. Other studio projects are being proposed in Atlantic, Essex, Hudson, and Middlesex counties - all of which will contribute to the growth of our economy, and further the state’s leadership in film and television. Recognizing the success of the Film & Digital Media Tax Credit, Murphy signed a bill in July to expand the program through 2039 and increase the annual allocation to $430 million. The law increased the base tax credit available to Studio Partners to 40% and allows the New Jersey Economic Development Authority - or NJEDA - to designate up to
three large studio facilities as Film-lease Production Facilities. The expansion of tax credits and increased focus on supporting large scale studio facility developments will help generate even greater industry spending. Additionally, the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission, an entity of the NJEDA, is working to welcome back large-scale productions through its “Film Ready New Jersey” program. This innovative program supports municipalities and counties as they work to accommodate location filming and market their communities as filming destinations, positioning the state as a top production destination. The film industry’s Golden Age might have taken place on the West Coast, but the industry’s birth was right here in New Jersey. Motion Picture technology was pioneered at Thomas Edison’s laboratory in South Orange and the capital of the film industry in the early 20th Century was in Fort Lee. New Jersey is perfectly positioned to reclaim our historical place at the forefront of the film industry. With the resources committed by Murphy and the Legislature, along with our leading talent and diverse landscapes, we are poised to continue our record-breaking growth. New Jersey is ready for its closeup.
Bill Addresses SNAP Application Approval Backlog Capitol Comments Senator Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Alex Padilla (D-C.A.) and U.S. Representative Ted Lieu (D-C.A.) introduced the Timely Review of SNAP Online Retailer Applications Act, which would speed up the application review process for online-only grocery retailers. Since its implementation in 2019, the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service’s (FNS) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
O n li ne P u rchasi ng Pilot has allowed millions of Americans to access healthy affordable groceries, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the program has seen significant growth and additions of numerous retail chains to its offerings, online-only retailers without brick-and-mortar storefronts face significant wait times before they are approved. There is currently a backlog of dozens of online only retailer applications that have been waiting over nine months for a USDA determination. This bill would require USDA to make a determination on all online retailer applications within six months. By
reducing barriers to entry for smaller on li ne - on ly ret ailers, th is bill will enable SNAP beneficiaries to shop a wider variety of retailers and access the benefits of online grocery shopping. “Addressing the backlog in online-only retailer applications is critical to expanding access to essential, nutritious groceries for every household,” said Senator Booker. “By set ting a six-month processing deadline and requiring a timely USDA review process, we will ensure that eligible online-only retailers are able to quickly start providing fresh fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods to families who may not otherwise have access to these nutritious items.” “SNAP programs play a vital role in
alleviating hunger across the country,” said Cong ressman Lieu. “However, to more fully meet the needs of each household, SNAP beneficiaries deserve access to user-friendly online retail platforms, quick delivery service, and a variety of retailers where they can purchase nutritious food for their family. Online-only grocery retailers are uniquely positioned to operate in underserved communities, including food deserts. Our bill would make it easier for online retailers to begin service in a timely manner and ensure that all American families have reliable access to healthy food. I am glad to join Senator Booker and Senator Padilla in introducing this important bill to support the health and wellbeing of our neighbors.”
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Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
OCC To Reimburse Tuition For Employees Of Local Little Caesars TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College is pleased to announce a new tuition reimbursement partnership that allows employees of Vulcan Formations LLC, a franchise of Little Caesars, to take classes at OCC and be reimbursed up to $1,620 per year. The program is available to both parttime and full-time employees in good standing who have complete their probationary period. Any OCC degree program can be eligible for funding. Ocean County College will assist the students with the enrollment process and in submitting documents needed to receive the benefit. “Ocean County College is excited to partner with Vulcan Formations to offer this valuable benefit to their employees, helping these students reach their educa-
tional goals and build the skills they need to succeed in their careers,” said James Campbell, FIPSE Grant project manager at Ocean County College. Vulcan Formations LLC, located at 3242 Bridge Avenue in Point Pleasant, is the first and only Little Caesars franchise to offer a tuition reimbursement benefit. By partnering exclusively with Ocean County College to provide this program, the franchise is investing in their employees’ future success while helping the company stay competitive in today’s workforce. To learn more about this program, visit go.ocean.edu/pizzapizza. Employers interested in developing a tuition benefits program with OCC should contact Mr. Campbell at jcampbell@ ocean.edu.
PDFNJ Calls On Middle Schoolers To Enter PSA Challenge NEW JERSEY – The Partnership for a Dr ug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is calling on New Jersey fifth- through eig ht h-g r a de st ude n t s t o e n t e r i t s 2023-2024 Middle School PSA (MSPSA) Challenge. Participants can win $1,000, have their video shared across the tri-state area, and be featured in PDFNJ’s social media and peer-to-peer substance use messaging. The MSPSA Challenge invites middle schoolers to create a 30-second television public ser vice announcement focusing on substance use prevention. It e mph a si ze s t he ef fe ct ive ne ss of peer-to-peer messages in helping youth make healthy decisions regarding substance use and misuse. “Th rough the Middle School PSA
Chal le nge, m idd le school st ude nt s gain a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of promoting positive choices among their peers,” said A ngelo Valente, executive director of PDFNJ. “By engaging in these conversations early, they become key players in shaping a drug-free future. We’re excited to see how this year’s participants use their creativity to make a difference.” Entries for the Middle School PSA Challenge will be accepted through March 1. Judging will be based on the prevention message, peer-to-peer relatability, and the ability to produce a video. The winners will be announced in the spring of 2024. For more information, to view past winning PSAs, and to enter, visit drug freenj.org/mspsa.
Toms River First Aid Squad 2024 Officers TOMS RIVER – The Toms River First Aid Squad held its election for the 2024 Operations and Executive officers. Congratulate the following: •Captain: Mike Reilley •1st Lieutenant: Scott Stenerson •2nd Lieutenant: Bryan Kaiserman •Sergeant: Vacant •President: Lisa Caputo
•Vice-President: Rebecca Nagy •Secretary: Terry Nielsen •Treasurer: Chris Golembeski •Trustee (three-year term): Alyssa Golembeski Congratulations to all and thank you to all of the 2023 Operations and Executive lines for all your hard work and dedication to the Township of Toms River.
EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 9
Community News
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Toms River Teen Earns Boy Scout Eagle Award
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Photo by Heidi Lotter TOMS RIVER - 17-year-old Luke Lotter, a township resident, has earned the Boy Scout Eagle Award. He was given the award in a special ceremony attended by Ocean
County Commissioner Virginia Haines and members of the Ocean County Historical Society. Here he is pictured with his proud mom and dad - Dennis and Chrissy Lotter.
Hispanic Heritage Club Gets Career Tips From National Guard
JAN. 17 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL
$224/pp
FEB. 28 THE NOTEBOOK: THE MUSICAL
$215/pp
MAR. 4 THE PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW AT THE CONVENTION CENTER
$149/pp
Includes Lunch Before Show & Orchestra Seat. With his first break into songwriting in the 1960s and his meteoric rise in the 1970s, and plenty of crushing disappointments and heart-stopping triumphs along the way, Neil Diamond has maintained an almost unthinkable level of superstardom for five straight decades. How did a poor Jewish kid from Brooklyn become one of the most universally adored showmen of all time? There’s only one way to tell it: a musical set to his era-defining smash hits that entranced the world.Including a score of Diamond’s most beloved songs.
Includes Lunch before the show and Orchestra Seat. The Notebook is a new musical based on the best selling novel that inspired the iconic film. Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart. With a book that has sold millions of copies worldwide and a film that’s one of the highestgrossing romantic dramas of all-time, the musical adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’s The Notebook comes to Broadway following a critically acclaimed world premiere engagement at Chicago Shakespeare Theater in the fall of 2022.
Includes Lunch On The Iconic Moshulu. The Philadelphia Flower Show at the Convention Center.Today we begin are journey with a beautiful 3 course lunch on the The iconic Moshulu. The “legendary” Moshulu is indeed the world’s oldest and largest square rigged sailing vessel still afloat. She is in fact the one and only restaurant venue on a Tall Ship today in the World. Built by William Hamilton & Co., Port of Glasgow, Scotland in 1904 for the G.J.H Siemers Co. of Hamburg, Germany as the four-masted barque Kurt. This “state-of-the-art” sailing ship was the finest and latest of man’s achievement in the world’s shipbuilding industry for the construction of bulk or packaged cargo sailing ships. After lunch we make are way to the Philadelphia Convention Center for the 2024 Annual Flower Show.
MAR 16 - THE IRISH CABARET STARRING ANDY CONONEY
Includes Lunch and Table Served Lunch before the show. Come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us, as the sights and sounds of Ireland come alive in the Irish Cabaret! Starring Andy Cooney, who has sold out Carnegie Hall seven times, Irish Cabaret is a celebration of Ireland’s music, song, comedy and dance. Also featured during the show are Eimear Reynolds, part of the original cast of Celtic Woman, and Jimmy Q., Ireland’s crown prince of comedy, who has toured throughout Ireland and the UK. The Guinness Irish Band, made up of the greatest Irish and Irish American musicians on the music scene today, and World Class Irish Dancers, who are decorated with some of the most prestigious awards in the dancing world, round out this world class line-up of talent. Designed to entertain the entire family, this is one Saint Patrick’s Day celebration you don’t want to miss!
APR. 16 MENOPAUSE 2 CRUISING THOUGH ‘THE CHANGE’ THE MUSICAL AT TROPICANA $110/pp
The sequel to the international hit: Menopause The Musical. Includes $25 Slot Play, $20 Food Voucher, Show. Set five years after the original, this new musical finds our original characters aboard a cruise ship, reuniting for more high jinks on the high seas. All aboard, sisters! The hysterical sequel to the smash-hit Menopause The Musical® is finally here! 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. Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change is a hilarious and heartfelt look at the joys of menopause and friendship — plus hot flashes, mood swings, and memory lapses! Join us on a trip of self-discovery, backed by a new soundtrack of toe-tapping parodied hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s. For these four ladies, menopause was not the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers all, and friendships never fail.
APR 27 - MAY 3, 2024 7 DAY GREAT RIVER RACE ADVENTURE
$1796/pp Dbl. Occ.
Package Includes: 6 nights hotel stay, Belle of Cincinnati Riverboat, Louisville Slugger Museum, Maryland Lock and Dam, Bourbon Tasting. Please call for complete details.
MAY 5-11 7 DAY SAVANNAH & CHARLESTON SOUTHERN CHARM TOUR $1399/pp Dbl.Occ Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – On December 6, 42 students from High School East’s Hispanic Heritage Club had the opportunity to visit Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst to explore the different careers offered by the New Jersey Army National Guard. During this visit, students learned about the requirements to be a member of the National Guard and the benefits it offers to its members, such as free college tuition, monthly paychecks, specialized training in
more than 200 fields, and retirement packages for even part-time service. Students had access to the hangar where mechanics were working on the helicopters and, under their supervision, went inside the Black Hawk helicopters. “It was an excellent experience for students to see firsthand what the National Guard does for our country,” said club advisor Liz Rodriguez. “Thank you, National Guard, for receiving us!”
Experience the flavor of two of the South’s most fascinating antebellum cities, Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC. with an expertly local step on guides. Visit the cobblestone streets and shady squares of sultry Savannah, a city rich in history. Sail away for dinner on the beautiful Savannah River Queen. Explore Charleston’s impressively preserved architecture, lavish romantic gardens, & colorful waterfront. Enjoy dining on your own at local favorites like Paula Deen’s The Lady & Sons Restaurant You’ll see The Citadel, Bigelow’s Tea Plantation,Charleston & Savannah Harbors. Explore the historic area on your own. PACKAGE INCLUDES 2 nights Savannah in historic area hotel, 2 nights Charleston, 6 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners, Savannah River Belle boat Dinner Cruise.Step on Guided tours of Savannah & Charleston Bigelow’s Tea Plantation Tour & Tea Tasting and more.
MAY 20-26 6 DAY GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS ADVENTURE
$1649/pp Dbl.Occ.
Includes 3 nights at Dolly Parton’s DreamMore Resort. Travel though Virginia passing the beautiful mountain landscape of this region with movies & games as we make are way to Virginia for our first night. The next day we arrive in Pigeon Forge,TN. While Visiting we will enjoy The Hollywood Car Museum, Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery taste & tour, Lumberjack feud Show. We check in for 3 nights To the beautiful Dolly Parton’s DreamMore Resort. Each night in Pigeon Forge will included dinner and a live show. Highlights to include Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery and Tour, 3 Hr. Step on Guided Tour of The Great Smokey Mountains National Park, Free time in town at your leisure, 4 live Shows, 5 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners. Package Includes 5 nights lodging, 5 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners, 4 Shows, And all listed attractions. Always Included Bottled Water & Snacks, Company Escort, All Gratuities Bus Departures Toms River (Exit 81 West Water Street NJT Station) • Brick Target (Route 70) Please Visit Our Website for All Upcoming Trips & Itineraries
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Page 10, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
Downtown An Ideal Holiday Destination For Students
The overwhelming majority of all Nursing and Rehabilitation centers in Ocean County are owned by large corporations with many buildings. Rose Garden is independently owned and operated. One single home..How refreshing! We are different, and like it that way. We believe you and yours will also... Experience the love and luxury. Call Kelly in Admissions to make arrangements - 732.505.4477
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Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – If the three core elements of the holiday season are tree decorating, caroling, and hot chocolate - and there’s a strong argument that this is indeed the holiday trifecta - then district students just had an ideal experience. Helping the mayor decorate the Town Hall tree has been a long-standing tradition for Toms River students, but this year the spirit of the season was extended. After hanging their ornaments created with a “winter at the Jersey Shore” theme, students from Beachwood, Pine Beach,
Washington Street, and West Dover elementary schools ventured upstairs to council chambers, where they sang holiday songs for Mayor Mo Hill and many others in attendance including Superintendent Michael Citta, Assistant Superintendent Cara DiMeo, teachers, parents, and families. After that, students went back downstairs where they were provided hot cocoa and holiday treats by district staff members Geralyn Gallucci and Director of K-5 Curriculum Rachel Cicala.
First Responders Honored For Heroic Efforts P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com
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Photo courtesy Toms River Township TOMS RIVER – First responders from Toms River Fire Dept., Company #1, Toms River Fire Company 2, Silverton EMS, Toms River Police Department and Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics were honored by the mayor and council for their heroic effort in saving the life of Matthew Roszkowski last March after he
suffered a head-on collision with an impaired driver. Fully (and miraculously) recovered just nine months later, Matt and his family were on hand to honor and thank the heroes. The Roszkowski family also presented each organization with a plaque to express their appreciation and gratitude.
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 11
Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
Family Artistry To Be Showcased
Photo courtesy UUOCC TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present “Art of the UUOCC Family and Friends” in the McConnell Gallery through January 18. The watercolors, mixed media pieces, photographs, collages and quilts were created by families of the Unitarian Universalist Ocean County Congregation, a spiritual community
at the Murray Grove Retreat and Renewal Center in Lanoka Harbor. “Art of the UUOCC Family and Friends” is free and open to the public during normal Branch operating hours. Find out more at the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events, or call 732-349-6200.
Students Awarded For Attendance
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Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – Students at West Dover Elementary who have been present at school for 95% or more school days during the 2023-2024 school year were
awarded a special certificate. They were commended for making attendance at school a priority and for showing up for success!
First Day Hike BERKELEY – Ring in the New Year at beautiful Island Beach State Park! Join the Friends of IBSP for a scenic walk down the beach on January 1 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Walk is approximately one mile out and back, but feel free to turn back at any time. Winter is
a great time to experience the natural beauty of the IBSP! Bonfire and smores to follow, weather permitting. Meet on the beach at Swimming Area 1. Find the event on their Facebook page and register: facebook.com/FriendsofIslandBeach.
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Page 12, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
Wash & Fold Service
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Tutoring Program Helps Third, Fourth Graders
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Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – Early in 2023, the state announced it would allot millions in funding to address pandemic-related learning loss for New Jersey students. This ultimately resulted in a competitive grant opportunity posted in late summer, which invited districts to apply for the High-Impact Tutoring grant. Toms River Regional Schools eagerly followed suit. The district recently learned it was awarded the grant, in the amount of $614,000, to implement the TRRS High-Impact Tutoring (H.I.T.) project. “Whenever there’s an opportunity to enhance or expand our capacity to do what we do best– educate students - we’re always going to jump at the chance,” said Superintendent Michael Citta. “We are grateful to the NJDOE for offering this opportunity and for recognizing our initiative in awarding us, and we’re excited to get started.” TRRS H.I.T. will serve nearly 580 district third and fourth graders with before-school tutoring in math. While the grade levels targeted are a requirement of the grant, the district is focusing solely on mathematics instruction based on its need relative to NJSLA student performance data. The district is one of 243 throughout the state to be awarded, and one of the largest to be selected. The grant opportunity invited districts to partner with tutoring agencies, but Toms River’s proposal identified 150 of its own certified staff members to take on the project. “We know for certain our staff members have the expertise to implement this project, and we feel that the comfort level our students have with the teachers they are already know and trust will ensure this delivers the high impact it promises,” said Director of K-5 Curriculum Rachel Cicala, who will serve as the project manager for H.I.T. “Whenever there’s an opportunity to enhance or expand our capacity to do what we do
best–educate students - we’re always going to jump at the chance,” Superintendent Michael Citta said. The high impact in question is not theoretical, but measurable. The goal of the project is that at least 10 percent of students participating in H.I.T. will show an increase in one proficiency level on the spring 2024 NJSLA Math Assessment, and that 75 percent of students will demonstrate proficiency on each standards mastery administered throughout the program. “Our goals for H.I.T. are lofty, but reflect the confidence we have in our staff, our students, and our families, who will be an integral part of making this a success,” said Assistant Superintendent Cara DiMeo. The district expects to begin the program immediately after winter break, in early January, and it will run at least through May. For now, the project team is securing its teacher-tutors, purchasing its curricular supplies, and identifying and communicating with the participating students and their families. H.I.T. will take place at all 12 district elementary schools, immediately before the start of the school day to ensure tutoring and core instruction are in close proximity to each other. Students will work with a highly-qualified tutor four days per week for 30 minutes (120 minutes per week) in groups no larger than four students. “One of the most important elements of this project is attendance, which aligns with everything we’ve been preaching throughout this school year,” said Cicala, referencing Toms River’s successful Attendance Matters initiative. “We’ll have incentives in place, and we’ll be communicating with families throughout.” With more than $600,000 in grant funding, a dedicated team, lofty goals, and hundreds of dedicated students and families, Toms River is banking on H.I.T. being a hit.
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 13
Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
Jingle Jams Just In Time
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Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – After a super successful year one, Intermediate East hosted its second annual Jingle Jam Fun Run December 10, an event sponsored by the Toms River Education Association. The run went off without a hitch. “Teachers, administration, friends, and most
importantly, the students, got the run in right before the start of the rain,” said Intermediate East teacher and event organizer Brianna Bates. The mission of the fun is to celebrate making good choices and being ROCKET READY, and to spend a holiday season Sunday morning gathering for a good cause.
Cats Available For Adoption
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A REVERSE MORTGAGE HAS HELPED THOUSANDS OF SENIORS, COULD IT BE RIGHT FOR YOU? Final decisions are important ones - especially when it comes to retirement. And when it comes to considering a reverse mortgage, it’s important that you work with someone who will not only listen carefully to your needs and understand your goals, but also assist you in making the decision as to whether a reverse mortgage is right for you. With the most up-to-date education and highest ethical standards, as a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP), I have the experience and knowledge that you deserve as you consider a reverse mortgage. I will gladly meet you and your trusted advisor.
Photo by Chris Lundy By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – An adoption center with a free roaming cat playroom is open in downtown Toms River on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and also by appointment. Bailey, in the center, is looking ominous on her perch, but that’s not stopping Cherie from trying to get her to play. They’re both
social cats and looking for a home together or apart. The center is located at 34 Main Street (Route 9), Suite 1B. The adoption center adheres to COVID-19 restrictions and is run by the group called Lawyers In Defense of Animals. They can be reached at 908-9102522, or on Facebook at /lidarescue and on Instagram @lida_rescue.
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Page 14, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
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Students Speak With Famous Authors
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Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – Seventh-grade students at Intermediate South had quite an experience, as they interacted with famous authors Kwame Alexander and Judy Blume, who spoke with students virtually on the topic of creating compelling characters. Alexander and Blume
also hosted a character craft lesson and a live Q & A. “It was so cool!” said language arts teacher Katie Jimenez. “I feel so grateful to have administrators that support opportunities like this for our students to help them grow as readers and writers.”
Laser Queen At Robert J. Novins Planetarium TOMS RIVER – Start with a layer of heavy metal, add a dash of glam, a pinch of astrophysics, and sprinkle liberally with theatrics. Only then will you get a sense of what makes up the legendary Queen, the band who are often touted as being the most educated rock band to ever live. Freddy Mercury put it best when he said, “The whole
point of Queen was to be original. We’re a very expensive group; we break a lot of rules. It’s unheard of to combine opera with a rock theme, my dear.” Laser Queen At Robert J. Novins Planetarium will be on December 29 and January 27 from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Show is about 45 minutes. Purchase tickets at ocean.edu/planetarium.
Blood & Platelet Drive TOMS RIVER – Calling all donors, make saving a life your New Year’s resolution! Join at Community Medical Center’s Blood & Platelet Drive and help us address the critical shortages at local blood banks. Blood & Platelet Drive on January 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Auditoriums A & B at Community Medical Center, 99 Route 37 W Toms River. To register call Laurie Diskin, BS, MT, Lead Blood Bank Medical Technologist,
at 732-557-8140. All donors will receive a $5 Wawa card! Community Medical Center and RWJBarnabas Health eligible staff members will receive “Recognizing You” points for donating. Platelet donors will receive a $10 ShopRite card. Please bring a photo ID and be sure to eat and hydrate before donating. Not sure if you are medically eligible to donate? Call 732-235-8100 ext. 221.
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 15
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Page 16, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
Here’s To Your Health Dr. Izzy’s Sound News
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Better Hearing Q & A
Our patients always have great questions about hearing and hearing technology. We feel it’s our obligation as the community’s only AudigyCertified practice to provide you more than exceptional hearing care and technology recommendations; we are here to give you the informative answers you’re looking for so you can confidently make educated decisions about your hearing health. Question - I’ve seen devices called “personal sound amplifiers” or PSAs advertised on TV. Are they the same as hearing aids? Answer - No, they are not. Personal sound amplifiers are quite different from hearing aids. These devices shouldn’t be used in the place of an expertly tuned hearing aid fit by a licensed hearing professional. Personal sound amplifiers were created to amplify sounds during recreational activities like hunting and
bird watching, not to alleviate a hearing problem. Since their specific function is to make sounds louder, personal sound amplifiers can actually be harmful to your hearing. Unlike properly fit hearing aids, personal sound amplifiers cannot adapt to environmental sounds. Loud sounds will just get louder, potentially causing serious damage to your hearing. Call for a free technology demonstration - Our practice offers the latest, most effective hearing aid technology available. And our experience in fitting and adjusting hearing aids means we can fine-tune them to respond to the way you live your life. Only a properly fit hearing instrument can do this, and this is what our hearing care providers do best. Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to answer questions pertaining to your hearing health care. Please feel free to contact 732-451-3962 or visit gardenstatehearing.com.
His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!
Fundraiser Held To Spay And Neuter Strays, Pets OCEAN COU NTY - The principal pur pose of Animal Bir th Control, a volu nteer non-prof it est ablished i n 1969, is to help reduce the number of unwanted animals by providing financial aid to those that cannot afford to pay the veterinary fees for spaying and neutering as well as helping those who provide TNR (trap-neuter-return) for their community strays. “We have helped over 2,500 animals t h is yea r alone. W E N EED YOU R HELP.....For over 50 years, ABC has been helping fund the spay and neuter of community strays and pets. We are almost out of funds and we desperately need your help. Please help us by donating so we can continue helping the animals.” A fundraiser selling raff le tickets is going on now. There are three $250 Visa gift cards to be won. The draw-
ing is on January 19 at 2 p.m. at 519 Monmouth Avenue in Pine Beach. The winner need not be present. A donation of $2 to attend the drawing is appreciated, but not necessary. “The single most important thing that we can do to save animals from all the suffering and death that their overpopulation causes, is to spay and neuter them. If you need financial assistance to help spay and neuter, please call ABC for guidance and funding assistance. Don’t wait until another litter is born or the neighbors complain when they see them multiplying!” “We a re r u n n i ng low on f u ndi ng and depend on donations in order for us to help assist others with spay and neuter.” For more information, visit ABC NJ on Facebook or email AnimalBir thControlNJ@gmail.com
MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 17
Here’s To Your Health Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Understanding B Vitamins: Essential For Health And Wellbeing By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. Did you know that approximately 10-30% of older adults suffer from some form of B vitamin deficiency? It may be that the B vitamins they supplement with are inferior forms, or that the body isn’t absorbing the Bs into the mitochondria. It could be poor gut health preventing conversion and activation. It may be a missing cofactor. Whatever the cause is, the end result is the same. Low B complex means poor health. B vitamins are crucial for our health, playing vital roles in energy production, brain function, and cell metabolism. As a healthcare professional and advocate for natural health, I often emphasize the importance of understanding these vitamins, their benefits, and signs of deficiency. Let’s talk about the role B vitamins play in the human body. Here is the entire family of B complex: Thiamine (B1) aids in glucose metabolism and is vital for nerve, muscle, and heart function. Benfotiamine is a highly bioavailable form of this nutrient that is lab-made. Riboflavin (B2) is essential for growth and overall energy production. Niacin (B3) supports the function of the digestive system, skin, and nerves. Adenine (B4) this is usually never found in B complex vitamins but it helps with DNA and RNA. Pantothenic Acid (B5) is crucial for hormone and cholesterol production. Pyridoxine (B6) is vital for brain development and function. P5P is body-ready and better. Biotin (B7) is key in lipid, protein, and carbohydrate metabolism.
Folic Acid (B9) is crucial for cell creation and emotional health. Folate or 5-MTHF is better. Cobalamin (B12) is essential for red blood cell production and nervous system maintenance. Methyl B12 or adenosyl B12 is even better because it is the mitochondrial form. Deficiencies in these vitamins can manifest in various ways. For instance, a lack of B12 might lead to fatigue, pale skin, and a swollen tongue, while B6 deficiency can result in itchy rashes and a weakened immune system. The risk of an imbalance with the family of B vitamins does exist. A lot of people take one B vitamin only, forgetting that this is actually a family of many B vitamins. Taking high doses of one B vitamin, like folate, can and often does cause imbalances in others. For example, excess folate can mask a B12 deficiency, potentially leading to neurological problems and neuropathy as well as confusion. It’s crucial to maintain a balance, often best achieved through B complex supplements, under medical guidance. A practitioner can help determine if a B vitamin deficiency or another health issue is the cause, but so you know B complex is sold in America without a prescription. Each of the B vitamins offers unique benefits especially when they get into the mito (as in mitochondria). That’s why I created a supplement called “Mito B Complex” which is available on Amazon or my website. You can also eat your way to better B vitamin status. A balanced diet of meats and vegetables is key to maintaining adequate levels of all the B vitamins.
(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) ©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.
Peer Support Groups For Veterans And Their Spouses/Partners TOMS RIVER – Recalibrate, a peer support group for veterans, will meet the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Mental Health Association of Ocean County. Additionally, a peer support group for
veteran spouses and partners will meet the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. Both meet at the MHANJ Building, 25 South Shore Drive, Toms River. For more information, email tfisher@MHANJ.org.
Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally OCEAN COUNTY – Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.
OCEAN ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES WELCOMES
ROBERT E. NUGENT JR., DO SPECIALTY:
Orthopedic Surgery - Hip & Knee Reconstruction/Joint Replacement
MEDICAL SCHOOL:
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
RESIDENCY:
Orthopedic Surgery - Jefferson Health New Jersey
FELLOWSHIP:
Adult Hip and Knee Reconstruction - Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics/University of Maryland
Dr. Nugent completed his orthopedic subspecialty training in Hip and Knee Replacement surgery at The Baltimore Adult Hip and Knee Reconstruction Fellowship. This collaboration between the Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics and the University of Maryland provided the opportunity to learn advanced techniques in hip and knee replacement, including complex primary and revision surgery from nationally and internationally renowned leaders in the field. Before fellowship, Dr. Nugent completed his Orthopedic Surgery residency at Jefferson Health NJ, where he served as Chief Resident. During his third year of training, he received the residency’s research award for best research project. Dr. Nugent completed his pre-medical education at the University of Delaware and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ). He then completed medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. He has several peer-reviewed research publications in the field of orthopedic surgery focusing on both patient and surgeon well-being. He has presented at multiple national orthopedic meetings including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) annual meeting. In his spare time, Dr. Nugent enjoys spending time with his wife, playing golf, visiting the beach, and watching live music. He is passionate about patient care. In treating patients like family, his ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life of his patients, through both nonoperative and operative interventions.
Call 732.349.8454 • oceanortho.com
Dr. Bartiss has often been referred to as “a doctor’s doctor”, and is frequently called upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, the American Academy of Ozone Therapists, and a diplomate of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Bartiss is a medical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in the field of Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).
THERAPIES/SERVICES • Hormone Replacement • IV Therapies • Thermascan • Cryoskin • HOCATT • Colonics • PEMF • Salt Room/Halotherapy • Theta Chamber • Ozone • Botox • Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management • Peptides 63 Lacey Rd. Unit C • Whiting, NJ 08759 609-978-9002 • www.ICAMNJ.com
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Page 18, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
Around The Jersey Shore Mötley Crüe Announces Two Shows For Hard Rock Live At Etess Arena
Photo courtesy Hard Rock Atlantic City ATLANTIC CITY – Mötley Crüe is slated to perform two shows at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. The shows are set for May 3 and May 4. Both shows are scheduled for 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. All shows are subject to change. Mötley Crüe is the world’s most notorious rock bank. Hailing from Los Angeles, CA, the quartet - Vince Neil (vocals), Mick Mars (guitars), Nikki Sixx (bass), and Tommy Lee (drums) - has commandeered the rock pantheon for 38 years. During that time, Mötley Crüe has accumulated worldwide album sales exceeding 100
million, seven platinum and multi-platinum albums, 22 Top 40 mainstream rock hits, six Top 20 pop singles, three Grammy nominations, four New York Times best-sellers and even landed a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. With utmost success from their biopic, “The Dirt” on Netflix and its soundtrack, the band landed another #1 album on iTunes and Top 10 worldwide with 22 chart-topping singles and seven albums on the charts. Its massive global success saw Mötley Crüe’s popularity rush to new highs, catapulting the band’s music back to the top of the worldwide charts with the younger 18-44 demographic now representing 64 percent of the band’s fanbase.
Island Heights Volunteer Fire Co. 1 2024 Officers
ISLAND HEIGHTS – Congratulations to the Island Heights Volunteer Fire Co. 1 2024 Officer Lineup: •Chief - Eric Johnson •Asst. Chief - Mike McDaniel •Captain - Tim Paar •1st Lieutenant - Chris Maher •Fire Police Captain - Dean Licata •President - Rob Wilber
•Vice President - JT Apel •Treasurer - Dan Brooksbank •Asst. Treasurer - Cody Wilber •Secretary - Max Brodbeck •Asst. Secretary - Mike Shannon •Financial Secretary - Tim Paar •Asst. Financial Secretary - Jim Gesser •Trustees: Pete Cowdrick, Bob Lusnia, •Jim Prior, Doug Platt, Dale Wilber, Brian McCully
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 19
Around The Jersey Shore
3 Offices to Serve You! Now in Leisure Village & Lavalette!
Leaders Of The Pack: The Gray Wolf By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator In North America, there are five subspecies of gray wolf. They are social creatures with a complex communication system, which involves barking, growling, body language, scent marking and howling. Sound familiar? The domestic dog is so closely related to the grey wolf that they are 99.9% genetically identical. Wolf pups are cared for in dens established by both parents until maturity at around ten months old. Gray wolves live in packs led by the mother and father wolves. A pack can consist of four to seven. They establish hunting territories by marking them, ranging from 50 to 1,000 square miles. Wolves mate for life. As carnivores, wolves typically prey upon animals larger than themselves, ranging from deer, moose, and elk, but are known to also eat smaller mammals like rabbit or beaver. Wolves will consume 20 to 30 pounds of meat in a single meal but can live without food for up to 14 days. Since their range has been reduced by one-third, they will commonly kill livestock. This has resulted in them being killed in revenge, by those farmers losing their livestock. At one time the
gray wolf was the world’s most widely distributed mammal. In 1926 the last wolf was killed in Yellowstone National Park. In 1995 a program for reintroduction was implemented and the wolves were reproducing at a rapid rate. As of January 2023, there are at least 108 in the park, existing in ten packs. Their average life expectancy is four to five years in the park, with the oldest known wolf in the park being 12 and a half years old. Leading the cause of death for wolves inside the park is other wolves. Humans are the leading cause of death outside the park. In some areas the gray wolf has been exterminated due to hunting and trapping. A record 23 wolves who had wandered outside Yellowstone National Park were killed. It appears there is much debate over whether to protect wolves or not. The information for this article was gathered from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768. It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/or federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which includes harm inflicted upon any animal, wild or domestic, is punishable by law.
329 Commons Way • Building C • Toms River, NJ 08755 DelVirginiaRealtors.com • 848.221.1180 GAETANA DEL VIRGINIA CDPE, SFR. Broker of Record/Owner
Commissioners Support American Legion’s Efforts To Preserve Cathedral Of The Air TOMS RIVER – Noting its historical significance to Ocean County and its large veteran population, representatives of American Legion Post 129 recently asked for support from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners in its efforts to preserve the Cathedral of the Air at Navy Lakehurst. American Legion Post 129 Commander Ralph Moranz told the Board of Commissioners that the Legion membership and veterans would like to see the Cathedral be designated a national historic landmark. The Cathedral of the Air is a Norman-Gothic military chapel in Lakehurst. It was conceived by Reverend Gill Robb Wilson, one-time national chaplain of the American Legion, and is intended to serve the military personnel serving at the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. “The American Legion has long and deep roots in this cathedral,” Moranz said. “The chapel is designed as a World War I memorial.” He noted that when the cathedral was built by the American Legion there had been no place for service men and women to worship. “The American Legion wants the cathedral designated a National Historic Landmark to preserve, protect and defend it historically and from compromise,” Moranz said.
American Legion post members noted that they have collected over 600 signatures to preserve the Cathedral. “A lot of people from Ocean County celebrated their marriages there,” said Legion Member William Schmidt. “It would be a disservice to have the building fall into disrepair.” Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari pledged the board’s support for the Legion’s effort to have the building designated as a national landmark. “With more than 30,000 veterans living in Ocean County, you have my word, we will do everything we can to support you,” Vicari said. “The Legion members said that in 1943, the Cathedral was rededicated to memorialize four World War II chaplains for their historic and selfless acts on the SS Dorchester. Each chaplain was recognized with a stained-glass window in the Cathedral. “There are also memorials to the sailors who lost their lives in the tragic crashes of the USS Akron and the USS Shenandoah airships, two military dirigibles that were based at Navy Lakehurst,” stated the American Legion. According to the American Legion, representatives from Post 129 have contacted the U.S. Department of Interior to start the application to preserve the Cathedral of the Air.
SAVE YOUR VISION – QUIT SMOKING That smoking is bad for a person’s general health is common knowledge, but many people are unaware of its effects on vision. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can happen to anyone, but people who smoke are between three and six times more likely to develop AMD and often experience faster deterioration of vision, blind spots in their central vision, or complete vision loss. The chance of a smoker developing cataracts is doubled as is the probability of developing a serious eye disease called uveitis, which can result in total vision loss. Children who live with smokers are also at an increased risk for allergic conjunctivitis or enflamed conjunctiva due to the effects of second-hand smoke. Long-term studies have suggested that quitting cigarettes allows cells in your eyes to slowly repair themselves, so risks of certain eye diseases go down over time. However, these risks do not completely go away. The best way to avoid this type of harm is to never start smoking or vaping. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week. P.S. The only good news about the effects of smoking on eye health is that quitting can immediately reduce the risk of smoking-related eye disease.
MARLBORO (732) 972-1015
BRICK TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622 (732) 477-6981 www.oceancountyeye.com
BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020
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Page 20, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
History:
Continued From Page 5 Country Club which today is the nine-hole TRCC. 7. He won Dover Township both times by over 60 percent of the vote. He carried Ocean County both times, as well, and only lost in Jackson. New Jersey was the only state north of the Mason-Dixon line that Lincoln lost. 8. B – “The Amityville Horror.” It starred James Brolin and Margot Kidder. Filmed at a home on Brooks Road in downtown Toms River, it told the story of a supposedly haunted residence on Long Island. The township government assisted in its production by providing police security and emergency personnel during the filming. 9. B - 1975. It opened with a formal ceremony that was held in the auditorium of nearby Toms River High School North with public tours of the new state of the art facility afterwards. Years later, it was named in honor of Richard C. Clement who was the chief of police when the building opened. It houses the township’s police department and municipal court. 10. B - The Lord family. The original building was their summer vacation residence. The township acquired their house in the 1960s with Green Acres funding as part of the making of the entire Ortley Beach oceanfront complex. 11. A - 63. Toms River has the largest number of election districts in Ocean County. Election districts are based on the number of registered voters in a geographical area, while wards are
based on population. Election districts are periodically created or changed by the county board of elections pursuant to state election laws. In 1975, there were 28 districts; later, there were 43 and 55 as the township’s number of voters increased over time. 12. B - Poultry farm. The land where the complex is located was one of the last active poultry farms in the township. During the middle of the 20th century, it was said that Ocean County was the “egg producing capitol” of the nation. Today, the old farm is the site of many of the Toms River Girls Softball League’s games and tournaments. 13. B - 1891. Five students graduated from Toms River High School that first year. Today, Toms River has three public high schools: Toms River High Schools South (the original school), North (opened in 1969), and East (opened in 1979). 14. C - Man thinks, God directs. The official motto was adopted on January 3, 1967 for the 200-year anniversary of the township’s founding. It was adopted in a formal resolution by the Township Committee. The other answers are the mottos of A - the United States, B - the Confederate States of America, and D - France. 15. A - Huddy Park. The land where the park is now located along Water Street was once a swampy area. By a special voter referendum in 1905, the property was acquired by the township and later filled in to make it the park we know today. It was later named in honor of the Revolutionary War captain, Joshua Huddy, who defended the village of Toms River from an attack by the British in 1782. In 1928, just before the onset of
Great Depression, special legislation was introduced in Trenton to fund the construction of an obelisk type monument in the park, similar (but smaller) to the Washington Monument. The bill never passed due to the state’s financial condition during the Depression. 16. C - Toms River East Little League won the Little League World Series. Dubbed the “Beasts from the East,” the team of boys from our town won the championship in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, in August, 1998 defeating a team from Japan. Upon their triumphant return to Toms River, they were greeted by tens of thousands of fans in a celebration held downtown. The North football team has won several South Jersey Group IV championships - 1979, 1991, 1994, 1997, and 2007, and the Group V title in 2015. The Toms River YMCA first organized in 1970 and was renamed the Ocean County YMCA in 1992. The Bey Lea golf course opened in 1969. It is one of only several municipally operated golf courses in the state. 17. Yes. Maria Ressa who graduated from Toms River High School North. Her family moved to Toms River from the Philippines when she was ten years old. A journalist, she was arrested in the Philippines for her groundbreaking investigative work. She received the Nobel Peace prize in 2021. 18. A - Map. An English colonial map from 1712 indicated a “Tom’s River” along a tributary of water along the southern border of the township where Huddy Park is located. Other maps during this time also referred to a “Goose Creek.” The apostrophe in “Tom’s” gradually faded away in use in the nineteenth century. 19. C - Thomas Luker. Originally from England, he first migrated to Massachusetts and later came
here in the late seventeenth century. He married a Lenni Lenape, “Queen Anne,” and they settled along a body of water in the approximate area of where the downtown post office is located. In 1992, the township’s 225-year anniversary committee researched the source of our name (including answers A and B, above), and determined that our town name’s origin is from Thomas Luker. 20. D - We don’t know. The 225-year anniversary committee researched the basis of the name Dover in 1992 and found no answer. The charter from the New Jersey royal assembly from 1767, when we were founded, simply states “Town of Dover.” With our early English history, it is speculative, but reasonable to believe, that the name Dover may have come from Dover, England - from people who migrated here from there, and simply borrowed the name for use in the new world, as was a common practice. The 225-year committee contacted officials in the English port community in 1992, but there was no information connecting the two towns. It remains, still today, a mystery in our local history as to where the name “Dover” came from. J. Mark Mutter is the official Township Historian. He chaired the township’s 225-year anniversary committee in 1992, it’s 250 year anniversary committee in 2017, and it’s Constitution bi-centennial committee in 1987. He served as the Clerk of both Dover and Toms River Township. He was elected to the Dover Township Committee and was re-elected twice and served as Mayor in 1993 and 2000. He is writing a book on the history of Toms River.
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The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 21
R.C. Shea & Assoc.
Inside The Law Injured At Work? Know Your Rights!
Christopher R. Shea Esq.
By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq., of R.C. Shea & Associates YOU have a right to a safe and healthful workplace. Unlike most personal injur y cases, a person who suffers an injury at work must assert his/her claim in accordance with the Workers Compensation Act. Under this Act, the burden is placed on the employer to provide medical care to any employee that suffers an injury arising out of the employment, or in the course of employment. However, in some instances, an employer may deny workers compensation coverage by claiming that you have not been injured, or that the injury you have suffered is not serious enough to qualify for Workers Compensation benefits. If a claim is disputed, you may stand to lose critical benefits, such as medical care coverage, financial assistance, and job retraining. Therefore, it is important for every employee to have a basic understanding as to their rights under the Workers Compensation Act. When the Workers Compensation Act was passed, it established that an employer must provide medical care to any employee who suffers an injury arising out of either: (1) a Traumatic Injury or (2) an Occupational Exposure or Disease. The first category of injury, known as Traumatic Injury, occurs whenever an employee suffers an injury that is caused by, or accelerated by, a work place “event”. In most instances, any injury that affects your ability to work will be deemed compensable. Commonly Traumatic Injuries range from: back injuries, infections, hernias, burns, stroke, fractures, broken bones, traumatic hearing loss, and traumat-
ically induced cancers. If such an injury has occurred, you must file a claim petition for Workers Compensation benefits within two (2) years of the date of the accident, two (2) years of the employer’s failure to pay you in accordance with an agreement, or within two (2) years of the last payment of compensation. The second category of compensable injury established under the Workers Compensation Act is known as Occupational Exposures and Diseases. In general, Occupational Exposures and Diseases are restricted to diseases that are, or were, characteristic of a particular trade, occupation, or place of employment. Since this type of injury sometimes take years to manifest, the Workers Compensation Act has established different provisions for filing such claims. Under the act, a person who suffers from an Occupational Exposure or Disease must file a claim petition within two (2) years after the date on which the injured employee first becomes aware of the nature of the disability and its relationship to the employment. Thus, under the wording of this Act, an injured employee maintains his right to medical benefits, regardless of when the last exposure occurred, so long as he files within two (2) years of the date he is notified of injury. If you feel that you have suffered one of the aforementioned injuries contact the Workers Compensation attorneys at R.C. Shea and Associates to secure the benefits that you are entitled to.
Our clients’ success is our greatest reward. 732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM
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Page 22, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
Photo Of The Week
It’s Christmas and that means that Denise and John Curcio of Manahawkin have put on an amazing light display. This one will make Clark Griswold jealous. From all of us at Micromedia Publications, we wish you a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanzaa and a very Happy New Year! If you would like to see your pix here, email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!
Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home Serving the community with dignity and compassion since 1869. Susan C. Dunigan • Manager, NJ Lic. 4328 Frank T. Palino • Director, NJ Lic. 4359
Just look at that amazing display of Christmas lights, displays and inflatables. If you want to check it out for yourself, head over to 13 Mirta Court in Jackson. The lights
are on from 5 p.m. until midnight. Elaine Franczak, the homeowner, tells us they have a donation bin by the mailbox for the local food pantry.
Diana M. Daly • Advanced Planning Director, NJ Lic. 4920
3010 Ridgeway Road • Manchester, NJ 08759 www.andersoncampbellmanchester.com
732.657.5700
2nd Annual Miniature Golf Tournament TOMS RIVER – Hosted by Community Medical Center Foundation and Ocean County College Foundation, putt the night away and support Maternity Services at Community Medical Center! The 2nd Annual Miniature Golf Tournament will be on January 19 at Ocean County
College - Jon & Judith Larson Student Center. 6 p.m. Cocktails and Light Fare; 7:15 p.m. Shotgun Start. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit rwjbh.org/community-medical-center/giving/special-events/miniature-golf-tournament.
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Ocean County’s Big Tree Registry OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County has launched a Big Tree Registry, a compilation of the largest native and naturalized tree species in the county. These trees, nominated by Ocean County residents will have environmental and historical value and should be conserved for future generations. Ocean County has been part of the New Jersey Forest Ser v ice ( NJ FS) who oversees the state Big Tree Conservation Program and keeps a record of the largest trees in the state since the 1930s. Benef its of big t rees i nclude the following: • Remove tons of pollution from our air annually • Trees combat climate change by removing CO2 • Lower electric costs up to 50% via shading • Prevent water runoff, erosion, and water pollution • Prevent f looding • Roots f ilter g rou nd water by ab sorbing nut r ients and toxins • Provide wildlife habitat • P r ov i d e wo o d a n d h ig h - q u a l i t y forest products
The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 23 • Big Trees u nif y com mu nities and organizations • Can increase proper t y values by as much as 15% • Slow water evaporation via shade saving water • Create visually pleasing bar r iers • Nat u ral sou nd bar r iers • Increase t raff ic to businesses
There are many benef its of conser ving these t rees. T he Ocean Cou nt y Pa r k s a n d Re c r e a t io n D e p a r t m e nt takes great pride in educating the public on the proper conservation and maintenance of our big trees to help ensure that they will survive for many years to come. Visit oceancountyparks.org/frmBigTreeRegistry for full information on the Registry.
Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com
Free Senior Transportation TOMS RIVER – Toms River Township is offering free transpiration for seniors to local stores, doctor’s appointments, to the Toms River Senior Center for activates and outreach. This service is avaible to Toms River Township residents only. To schedule a ride, call 732-341-1000
SilverWoods Senior Rental Community offers an independent and vibrant, yet supported lifestyle for optimal aging in place. Live in a relaxed atmosphere with premium services and amenities for your peace of mind. CALL FOR END OF YEAR SPECIAL OFFER!
NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE
HANDS FOR ALL
A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC. A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 680 Hooper Ave. • Building B 2nd Floor Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698
See the difference the Silverwoods Lifestyle makes
Spacious, ranch style garden apartments on 55 acre campus.
Newly renovated clubhouse, with restaurant, fitness center, pool & activity lounge includes health & wellness program & 24/7 emergency response.
Daily shuttle service to local shopping & other community destinations as well as trips & outings.
Trash & snow removal with housekeeping, maintenance & parking.
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Page 24, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
CLASSIFIEDS For Rent Apartment For Rent - Brick NJ - 83 Brandywine Court. $2,450/per month. 2 BD's, 1.5 Bath, washer/dryer, access to pool, patio for BBQing. Contact Management company Ana Almonte 732-470-5796. email aalmonte njleasingagent@gmail.com. (5) Seaside Park - 1 Bedroom apartment, $1300. Waterfront Marina 4 Bedroom Private Home with new floors, carpet and paint. Super Clean with beautiful sunsets from your deck, $2800. 908-278-5491. (5)
Auto For Sale 2010 Buick Lucerne CXL - Special edition V8. 25,034 miles. Garage kept. Beige. Mint condition. On star. CD player. $8,500 firm. 732-473-1938. (3)
Items Wanted COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY 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, bric-a-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. Also buying Comic Books . Call Rick 908-616-7104. (t/n) CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (44) 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 - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n) U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n) 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. (1)
Help Wanted 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)
Help Wanted
Services
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)
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. (t/n)
PART-TIME BUS DRIVERS Wanted for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District: Pay Rate $20/hour. CDL License required, must have (B), (P) & (S) Endorsements. Daily transport of students on field trips in and/or out of State and job shadowing trips. NO PEDDLE RUNS. EOE. Please email resume to ecrawford@ocvts.org or call Ed Crawford at 732-473-3100 ext. 3110. (4) 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) Bus Driver NEEDED! - Flexible Scheduling. Perfect for Retiree in Retirement Community. CDL w/ Passenger endorsement required. Call SilverWoods Clubhouse for more information at 732-341-4825. (t/n) 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)
B2B Services SalesTeamStaffing.com A highly specialized, NJ based recruiting agency for companies seeking the top Sales Professionals in their field. Add significantly to your bottom line. Phone: 201-815-2636 Email: Reps@SalesTeamStaffing. com (Guaranteed Results). (2)
Services Pastor For Over Four Decades Available for pulpit supply, evangelism, and prophecy seminars. Preaching the glorious gospel. 908-343-5195. (3) 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) Avon Sale - Eyeliner, make up, eye shadow, perfume, etc. For the Christmas shopping. Call for brochure at 732-773-5078. (4) CHEAP PAINTING Done RITE Free est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n) 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) 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) 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) Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-350-4427 for more information. (4) Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry window cleaning, carpet cleaning. Very good prices. 732773-5078, 848-287-3944. (5)
Services
Services
Services
ALLAmerican Home Health Aides Experienced 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)
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 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)
Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:
1.• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales
• Items Wanted
• For Rent
• Auto For Sale
• Help Wanted
• Real Estate
• Items For Sale
• Services
• Other
clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within 2. Print ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary. 1
5
9
13
17
2
3
4
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8
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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 Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.
4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:
Credit Card#
Exp.
Cardholder Signature:
DIRECTV Sports Pack - 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)
5. Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388.
Painting - Special Fall Pricing. Interior/Exterior. Meticulous work. All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (47)
6. ADDRESS
THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@ exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n) Handyman Solutions. All Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry •Doors •Windows •Bathrooms •Kitchen •Tile •Flooring •Decks •Vinyl Railings •Masonry •Drywall •Painting •Electric •Plumbing •More. Licensed. Insured. Emergency Service Available. 609-384-9030. (3)
Print Name:
MAIL TO: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.
Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR BILLING ADDRESS (THIS IS REQUIRED)
TOWN
ZIP
PHONE NUMBER
Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (Ads will be running the Saturday of that week)
If you have any questions, email Ali at agradzki@jerseyshoreonline.com.
jerseyshoreonline.com
The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 25
BUSINESS DIRECTORY SUPREME MODULAR BUILDING VALUE Design Your Modular Home the way you like it! Starting at $59/sq. ft. • Office locations in NJ, PA & DE Modular Home Construction • Prefabricated Home Construction Residential Construction • Commercial Construction
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PRESIDENT
G. NICHOLS
Specializing in All Types of Paving and Masonry All Work Guaranteed Free Estimates Call or Text
PAVING INC.
Licensed & Insured 13VH00396100
1-855-MY-MODULAR (856-652-2382) SUPREMEMODULAR.COM
Since 1928
GODFREY NICHOLS
IMMEDIATE SERVICE
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PLUMBING • HEATING • COOLING
With This Ad
CALL TODAY FOR FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE
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Ronald Schultz NJ Master Plumber Lic #12170
www.lezgusplumbing.com
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Gourmet flavored butter, scones and more
ESTIMATES
Replacements & New Install of Heating & Air Conditioning Units
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732-349-1448 • www.caretemp.com
L &B
Bring this ad for a FREE SCONE with $10.00 purchase.
• Flavored Butter • Scones • Scone Trays • Scone Mix • Scone Parties • Butter & Scone of the Month Club • Holiday Trays & Gifts! • Party Favors • NATIONWIDE SHIPPING • Also Vegan & Gluten Free 1575 Rte 37 W • Unit 11 • Toms River Northampton Business Park
732-930-1116 • www.ButterMeUpNJ.com
General Maintenance & Power Washing
Mobile & Residential Home Repairs HVAC Duct Cleaning & Dryer Vent Cleaning
Heating & Cooling 732.240.9059
Larry Braun Jr. Owner
Est. 1985
Larry Braun 3rd
NJ HIC# 13VH01116700
Toms River, NJ
EFFECTIVE AFFORDABLE WE ACCEPT: › Visa › MasterCard › American Express
CALL TODAY 732.657.7344 & find out how!
THIS SPACE
COULD BE
YOURS!
Tree Removal • Stump Grinding
609-437-0850
www.amazing-tree-services.com
GREAT RATES FOR BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADS! NUMEROUS DISCOUNT PACKAGES AVAILABLE! FOR DETAILS, CALL 732-657-7344 TODAY! Please Check Your Ad The First Week It’s Scheduled To Run For Insertion & Accuracy. Micromedia will not be responsible for errors occurring in an ad beyond the f irst week if we are not notif ied of the error.
jerseyshoreonline.com
Page 26, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 Tibetan monks 6 Game with drivers and carts 10 __ of gold 13 Eggy brunch choice 15 Slender woodwind 16 Flightless bird of Australia 17 *Take a chance 19 Photographer Goldin 20 Squirrel’s discard 21 Pancakes often served with smoked salmon 23 Archaic “once” 24 *Minnesota medical center 27 Blessing ender 29 “Oh, now I see” 30 Mother-of-pearl 33 GI show gp. 34 Quacking bird 37 Slice of history 38 *Mug for the cam-
eras 42 Language of Southeast Asia 43 Off-white shade 45 Pollen gatherer 46 Arcade pioneer 48 Hole in a tub 50 Covert ops outfit, for short 52 *Vatican security detail 55 “Hey, you!” 59 Sun porch 60 Float in the air 62 So last month 63 Spot to assemble the first parts of the answers to the starred clues 66 Laudatory poem 67 Area behind an altar 68 Hears (of) 69 Chicken __: itchy malady 70 Class ring number 71 Wager Down 1 “SNL” producer Mi-
chaels 2 French love 3 Gets soupy, as ice cream 4 Elite athlete 5 Late-night host Meyers 6 Divine 7 __-Wan Kenobi 8 Opp. of express 9 Without oomph 10 Landform that juts into the water 11 Resident of a Middle Eastern sultanate 12 Loose-fitting top 14 Unifying feature of many crosswords 18 Splashy style 22 Fibbed 25 Hops-drying oven in a brewery 26 “Mon petit __”: French endearment 28 “It’s okay, I guess” 30 Jill Biden, __ Jacobs 31 Rainbow shape 32 Analog catalog in
British libraries 33 One-eighty 35 Indy 500 racer 36 Colorful pond fish 39 “You’re making __ mistake!” 40 Feature of many restaurant websites 41 Actress Grier 44 __ Minor: constellation 47 “Let’s see you do better!” 49 “To quote myself ... “ 50 Team on a film set 51 Ibuprofen brand 52 Sailing vessel 53 Picture book character lost in a crowd 54 Birch family tree 56 Brand of hummus 57 Smelled a lot 58 To the point 61 Puts frosting on 64 Imitate 65 Super-secret intel org
(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.
SOLUTIONS
SU DOK U
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Jumble: SINGE FLANK BLOTCH FLAUNT - FULL OF BEANS
jerseyshoreonline.com
The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023, Page 27
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF DEC 23 - DEC 29 BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): Now could be the time to let your enthusiasm show. Try not to be afraid when it comes to making the first move when it comes to love. It can be ok to get your hands dirty when putting together something for some family fun. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): If someone thinks you are a bit eccentric, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn they find you amusing rather than annoying. Your skills could be on full display and may get the opportunity to take control and save the day. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your friends may monopolize your time or take up space you usually reserve for family time. Participation in a group event could put you at odds with a relative who might have other plans. Try to divide your time fairly. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Being in harmony with a special someone could have you humming a happy tune all day. You might be set on following family traditions but remain flexible enough to accept other people’s opinions or customs. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Generosity much like love must come from your heart. You could help fulfill someone else’s daydreams by giving freely whenever you can. Logic may not always hold sway when emotions are concerned. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Sometimes you can get caught up in a moment if disappointment disturbs your harmony. Do your best to remember the many times your expectations may have been exceeded by loved ones to help put things into perspective.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Merriment can be facilitated if you are willing to experiment with some new ways to bring people together. Finding loving harmony with your tribe could help make great memories to treasure for years to come. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Tender feelings within a romantic relationship or close friendship could be magnified right now. You can enjoy a deepened sense of intimacy as you share in merrymaking with loved ones. Do your best to keep the peace. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sentimentality may have a special place in your home. You could be filled with seasonal spirit but might need to have more practical considerations to deal with, such as cooking or keeping an eye on the weather reports. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Someone who seems unapproachable could have a gentle side hiding underneath. You may find it easier to call a truce now. You might be in a take-charge mood and feeling enthusiastic about preparing for a celebration. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When the weather outside is frightful be grateful if you have the freedom to remain snug and cozy indoors. Prepare some extra treats if you feel there may not be enough to go around at a gathering. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): If at first you do not succeed, you can still try again. Your resolve to be more understanding might weaken if faced with confusing reactions from others. Continue to be kind and try not to be concerned by mixed signals.
(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A NEW CHRISTMAS COOKIE RECIPE, THIS IS THE ONE YOU SHOULD TRY By America’s Test Kitchen
Our ideal molasses cookie recipe would produce a charmingly crackled and crinkled cookie with an uncommonly moist, chewy interior and a spicy flavor with undertones of dark, bittersweet molasses. To make this molasses cookie recipe a reality, we started with all-purpose flour and used butter rather than shortening for full, rich flavor. The precise right amounts of molasses, brown sugar, vanilla, and spices gave us the flavor we wanted. Taking the cookies out of the oven when they looked underdone gave our molasses cookies the chewiness we required.
SOFT AND CHEWY MOLASSES SPICE COOKIES Makes about 22 cookies
1/3 cup granulated sugar (about 2 1/2 ounces; 71 grams), plus 1/2 cup for dipping 2 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour (11 1/4 ounces; 319 grams) 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon table salt 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), softened but still cool 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar (about 2 1/2 ounces; 71 grams) 1 large egg yolk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup molasses (about 6 ounces; 170 grams), light or dark 1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place 1/2 cup sugar for dipping in an 8-inch
or a 9-inch cake pan. 2. Whisk flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined; set aside. 3. In a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat butter with brown and granulated sugars at medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium-low and add yolk and vanilla; increase speed to medium and beat until incorporated, about 20 seconds. Reduce speed to medium-low and add molasses; beat until fully incorporated, about 20 seconds, scraping bottom and sides of bowl once with rubber spatula. 4. Reduce speed to lowest setting; add flour mixture and beat until just incorporated, about 30 seconds, scraping bowl down once. Give dough final stir with rubber spatula to ensure that no pockets of flour remain at bottom. Dough will be soft. 5. Using tablespoon measure, scoop heaping tablespoon of dough and roll between palms into 1 1/2-inch ball; drop ball into cake pan with sugar and repeat to form about four balls. Toss balls in sugar to coat and set on a prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Repeat with remaining dough. 6. Bake one sheet at a time until cookies are browned, still puffy, and edges have begun to set but centers are still soft (cookies will look raw between cracks and seem underdone), about 11 minutes, rotating baking sheet halfway through baking. 7. Cool cookies on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then use a wide metal spatula to transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool cookies to room temperature and serve. (They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or zipper-lock plastic bag up to five days.)
(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.
Page 28, The Toms River Times, December 23, 2023
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