2024-03-02 - The Jackson Times

In This Week’s Edition

Government Pages 7

green career day plants seeds of excitement for students

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Helping

environmentalists of tomorrow take root today, Milken Educator and second grade Elms Elementary School teacher Shaina Brenner coordinated Green Career Day at her school.

“The purpose of our Green Career Day was to inspire and empower our students to contribute positively to our planet, and to that end, I sought out professionals and experts passionate about sustainability and environmental stewardship,” Brenner said.

Pages 9-11

Dr. Izzy’s

Students from kindergarten through 5th grade listened to speakers discuss career paths in such fields as renewable energy, conservation, green technology and construction, environmental protection, recycling, agriculture and forestry, and eco-friendly initiatives.

The Polar Bear Plunge wouldn’t be the same without Joe Sarnoski, a retired police captain from Lyndhurst, at left who once again served as the event’s mascot and cheered people on as the official polar bear. This year he took photos beside another costumed polar bear.

Brenner remarked that, “our student Green Team members and our fifth grade Team Tiger leaders helped welcome our guest presenters and guide them to their fi rst location. Our supportive PTN set up a welcome area for our guests complete with grab and go snacks and water.”

“All the feedback I got from staff and students was all positive. The students were highly engaged and enthralled with their presenters who presented very valuable information and interesting for the kids,” she added.

The Jackson Education Association also sponsored the event. Each guest presenter was offered parting gifts: a packet of native pollinating flower seeds and a custom designed cookie, Brenner said.

(Career DaySee Page 4)

Officials End Dumpster Permit Need

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Township officials recently voted to eliminate a permit requirement for large trash receptacles on residential property, added a member to the township Municipal Utilities Authority and are seeking additional police parking spaces.

The measure to eliminate a ban on residential construction containers removes an ordinance enacted a few years ago which received some resident criticism.

This will serve residents who are performing home renovations and have to place a container on their property. While homeowners will still need to notify the township, there will

be no requirements for permits. Residents who wish to place a container on the roadway, would be required to apply for a permit and pay a fee. The council unanimously voted to approve this ordinance. Council members also voted to add an additional member to the Jackson Municipal Utilities Authority. Councilman Mordechai Burnstein told The Jackson Times that he was made aware that the MUA has only one alternate commissioner where other towns have two.

“By adding the second MUA alternate, the Township is ensuring that there is constancy and more oversight over

(Permit - See Page 4)

Polar Bear Plunge Raises $2.5M For Special Olympics

By Bob Vosseller SEASIDE HEIGHTS

– Around 8,000 people made up of about 570 teams plunged into the icy surf on a cold Seaside morning, raising more than a combined $2.5 million to benefit Special Olympics New Jersey. Including spectators,

approximately 65,000 people came out to boardwalk for the 31st anniversary of the Polar Bear Plunge. For over 55 years, Special Olympics New Jersey has provided year-round sports training and athletic competition in 24 Olympic-type sports for thousands of children

and adults with intellectual disabilities, completely free of charge. The morning began cloudy with some rain dropping but the sky turned blue around the 1 p.m. plunge time that featured an air temperature in the mid-30s and

(Polar PlungeSee Page 5)

Status Of Unused School Questioned

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED – Residents questioned officials about the Plumsted Primary School which is currently not being used for classroom instruction.

Resident Bernard Bahnam asked about the status of the building, which is located on Evergreen Road. There was consideration to sell or lease the building to raise funds for the school

district but during the latest board meeting, members said it may be reopened for classroom use for students within the district.

Previously, discussion centered on hopes that a medical firm would use the facility. It has also been utilized for private sporting events in recent months although an issue of whether activities were covered by insurance has

(School - See Page 4)

Photo by Bob Vosseller

(Top) Abe’s Acres Farm owner Gabriel Siciliano speaks with Elms Elementary School students at Green Career Day. (Middle) Teacher Shaina Brenner and her 2nd grade class. (Bottom) Fourth grade students Chase Milne and Melanie Hanson join Elms Principal Michael Burgos.

Photos courtesy Jackson Schools

Career Day:

Continued From Page 1

“It was a good way to switch things up and include green careers and influence us. I liked how they gave us information about the different careers. The botanist was my favorite, because I like to garden and it’s nice to just go outside and appreciate nature,” 5th grade student Joseph Figueroa said.

Fellow 5th grader Beau Goffredo said, “my favorite part was how the people that came in wanted to teach us how to stay green. My favorite presenter was the one who taught us how to install solar panels.”

“I felt it was very important, because kids could learn stuff that they probably didn’t know. My favorite part about Green Career Day was learning about jobs I really didn’t know existed,” 2nd grade student Luciana Chionchio said.

Department of Environmental Protection.

Other speakers included Gabriel Siciliano, owner of Abe’s Acres Farm; Joel Mott of the Pinelands Commission; Chris Claus, the chief park naturalist of the Ocean County Parks & Recreation; Megan Zorns, who serves as that agency’s principal park naturalist; Debbie Wyckoff of New Jersey Natural Gas; NJ Audubon Education Program Manager Roberta Hunter; and Rutgers Botanical Garden Superintendent Caitlin Venezia.

“I felt our presenters came prepared and saw that these are kids and how can I make it interesting for them,” Brenner added. “A lot of work went into it so it was really nice to get that positive response after the fact.”

The Outdoor Environmental Learning Center & Garden that she mentioned is another point of excitement at the school. Brenner told The Jackson Times that the project that will be located in “the back of our school and is scheduled for completion this spring.”

www.allensoilandpropane.com

The long list of guest speakers included the school district’s Energy Specialist, a 4-H Senior Program Coordinator, the senior director of the Rutgers University Office of Climate Change, members of the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste and various representatives from the New Jersey

Permit:

Continued From Page 1

this independent board. With the upcoming retirement of the current MUA director and new members joining the commission, we want to ensure a smooth transition,” he said.

“I got a grant for $10,000 from Sustainable New Jersey For Schools and we are working on this pollinator garden and we are really excited about it. It is more than just a pollinator garden but will be a huge environmental center in back of the school,” she added.

the feasibility of expanding the parking lot for the police department at the Jackson Justice Complex.

Council Vice President Scott Sargent added that they were looking out for the best interest of the ratepayers and residents of Jackson and that he is looking forward to interviewing the various candidates for this position.

While Council President Jennifer Kuhn and Councilman Steven Chisholm also voted in support of adding the extra member to the MUA, Councilman Nino Borrelli voted against the ordinance during its introduction and again during its second reading. He commented, “no, we’ve always had four members. There is no reason or purpose for another member.”

The mayor and council are also studying

School:

Continued From Page 1

recently been questioned.

Resident Kate Tallon also brought up the subject of building usage by outside organizations during the meeting. “What is the protocol for that? What is the process?”

She was told by Business Administrator Sean Gately that the procedures were stated on the school district’s website. He answered yes to her follow up question about it having to be a legitimate organization and that it would have to provide insurance.

He said there was no requirement to donate anything to the school district but that there

Council members recently attended the monthly P.B.A. meeting where union members mentioned that due to the department’s steady increase of personnel the department has been using the adjacent county library and park parking lot for overflow.

Council members Kuhn and Burnstein contacted the Administration relating to the parking concerns. Kuhn, Sargent, DPW head Shawn Bolinsky, and Business Administrator Terence Wall met and went over the area to be used for the expansion.

The township will continue to study the police department lot adjacent to headquarters to see whether or not the department can store their vehicles in a more suitable and secure location. Kuhn said she learned “there is grant money available from the county for projects like this one.”

was an established fee schedule.

Superintendent David Ytreboe told The Jackson Times, “The authorization for use of school facilities is not an endorsement of or approval of the activity, person, group or organization nor the purposes they represent. The district has a practice to have insurance on file but will review insurance plans with our own insurance carrier to determine if the insurance utilized by the organization is appropriate.”

Another resident inquired about use of the softball field by the United Christian Academy who are willing to pay and have proof of insurance. She noted that as the school district has the junior varsity field that is not

(School - See Page 5)

School:

Continued From Page 4

in use that it might accommodate them. The resident passed along the contact information to the Board.

In other news, resident Nicole McCallister asked the Board about communicating with the recently formed policy committee specifically involving vocational technical students and whether they could participate in extracurricular activities and sports programs of the Plumsted School District. She also asked the Board about how the pub-

Polar Plunge:

Continued From Page 1

water temperatures in the low 40s.

“This is my seventh year,” Cheryl Klouda of Columbia New Jersey told Jersey Shore Online.com. She was dressed in a shark costume and holding the duffle bag she got this year to hold her change of clothes.

“I have friends who come down here to plunge with me. Our team is We Plunge Forward dot, dot, dot.” She added, “one of my friends has a daughter who has cerebral palsy and I started plunging for her.”

Klouda added that her trick to staying warm after the plunge “was to bring plenty of blankets. This year I have five members for the team. Last year I had more. Two

lic would learn about updates to the district’s curriculum.

Ytreboe said once a curriculum program is approved by the Board information about it would be made available to the public.

Restrooms And Curriculum

The business administrator noted that the district would be receiving a grant to add two bathrooms at the elementary school for preschool classrooms. “That will be part of the discussion as we approach the 2024-25 budget. There is no action that is necessary. The Board would accept the grant application that the state is funding.”

Yreboe also told The Jackson Times that prior to his arrival, “the Board of Education voted to stop using the Summit Learning Program. The district is moving back to traditional programs that will be aligned to the NJSLS and will be phasing out using Summit by September 1.”

“The teachers are currently piloting programs in social studies, science and math at the middle school. A formal adoption of program and materials will take place later this school year,” he added.

Board Thanked

Recently it was the twenty-second School

Board recognition month in New Jersey and Ytreboe took the opportunity to thank the members of the Board of Education for their work.

The Board consists of Board President Dr. Vincent Giardina, Vice President Justin Goodman, Kelly Morgan, Robert Stepnowski, Earl Meroney, Kathryn Kovacs and Ashley Raywood.

Stepnowski and Kovacs were sworn in for their first term on the Board during the panel’s reorganization meeting held in early January.

Ytreboe presented certificates of thanks to each Board member.

are from Pennsylvania, a couple are from New Jersey”

Some plunged in bathing suits, others in street clothes, and many donned colorful costumes. Law enforcement personnel monitored the crowded area.

Some even plunged as a duo such as the brother and sister “Plunger Party” team of Vinny and Emily Kearns from the northern end of the state.

“I’ve been wanting to do this forever and never did it and figured why not,” Vinny Kearns said.

“I signed my sister up for this. She didn’t have much say,” he added laughing. The duo sported plunger hats. “We tried to make a team and then nobody said they wanted to do it.”

Wawa, the official coffee partner of the Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside, was onsite again this year with their mobile truck to provide free coffee and hot chocolate. When asked how many cups of hot beverages they would be handing out during the day, Wawa worker David Homer said “probably around 10,000.”

His fellow Wawa volunteer from the Howell store simply replied, “lots.”

Wawa spokesperson Portia Welch said the convenience store chain has had a presence at the plunge for about 10 to 15 years and along with area store volunteers they bring along their mascot, a costumed goose each year. She put the cup count of java and hot chocolate at 12,000.

On the subject of costumed mascots, the

Polar Bear Plunge wouldn’t be the same without Joe Sarnoski, a retired police captain from Lyndhurst, who once again served as the event’s mascot and cheered people on as the official polar bear. This year he took photos beside another costumed polar bear and sported a red T-Shirt in contrast to his usual blue shirt.

Dressed as the Frozen Hoses were members of the Mixed Bag of Nuts from Fort Dix. “My brother in-law is a fi reman so we decided to go as fi remen this year,” Scott Cabe of Toms River said.

“We have been here doing this for 10 years,” Pam Evans of Stanhope said. She and Cabe were joined by two West Orange residents who were part of the team. Caitlyn

(Polar Plunge - See Page 14)

e State’s Fiscal Cli And Jackson School Funding

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

Last week, I wrote about the “fiscal cliff” looming in New Jersey’s near future because state revenues are coming in below what it will take to pay for all the spending in the current state budget. It’s not a new term, but my column took it from a statement by Nicole Rodriguez, president of New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP).

That’s a left-leaning organization I chose to quote in making the point that there’s a consensus among observers on the left and the right, as well as nonpartisan professional researchers, that the current state budget is in bad shape. It started off too heavy on spending with a poor revenue outlook, and it’s only gotten worse.

Taking a look at the January revenue report from the nonpartisan legislative staff, things appear to be continuing to head in the same direction. Total revenues in this budget year have fallen about 2.5% from the same period last year, while the budget is based on expecting 1.5% growth. This means there’s a 4% gap in funding state programs so far.

While 4% may not sound like much, remember that the budget is over $54 billion. That 4% equals more than $2 billion.

Looking at the major taxes individually, the state income tax is generating 3.6% less than last year. The budget is based on a 3.5% increase over last year, meaning the gap between spending and the money needed to pay for it is over 7%.

You might think that’s a particular problem for people benefiting from one or more of the state’s property tax relief programs, such as the Senior Freeze, ANCHOR and deductions for seniors and veterans. State income tax revenue is dedicated to the Property Tax Relief Fund, which pays for most of those programs as well as school aid and other local aid.

I wouldn’t worry about those benefits, though. Based on what I’ve seen, those calling the shots in Trenton wouldn’t let a lack of money stop them from funding those programs. They’d just raise the income tax or some other tax to make up the difference, in all likelihood.

Also, Jackson residents know all too well the “cost-saving” features of the state’s school aid program. They run the gamut from slashing millions in aid from successful school districts like ours, right down to forcing those districts to pay the salaries of state-appointed monitors sent to keep an eye on how the district spends ever-dwindling resources.

I’ve introduced legislation to change both of those bad policies. On state school aid,

I sponsor a bill to create a new funding formula that won’t punish Jackson and other well-performing school districts with constant state aid cuts. Regarding the fiscal monitor for Jackson schools, who was put in place by the state as a result of state actions, I have a bill to make the state pay the monitor’s salary and related costs, not Jackson property tax payers.

I’ve recently received authoritative word from the state on the “stabilization aid” that five of the school districts I represent will receive, and have notified them. They include Jackson and Plumsted.

Jackson will receive $2.1 million to help it manage the harmful aid cuts the state itself has made. That’s a bit of good news for the students, teachers and staff of Jackson schools, but it’s a drop in the bucket against the roughly $20 million cut over the last several years. Plumsted will get $265,000.

The stabilization aid program isn’t set in state law, and therefore it can be halted at any time. As long as the current school aid system is in place, a remedial program like that needs to continue. I’ve introduced legislation to ensure stabilization aid and another aid program won’t go away while they’re still needed.

Perhaps it’s not surprising that a state government failing to properly manage its own fi nances is doing such harm to the budgets of our local schools. The state that’s facing a fiscal cliff keeps pushing Jackson schools toward a cliff as well.

Like the sources cited in my previous

column, a group affiliated with Rowan University has called out the state for its budgeting problems. The Multi-Year Budget Workgroup (MYBW), which fairly describes itself as “a bipartisan team of former high-ranking administration and legislative budget officials, policy experts, economists and academics”, did so in a mid-February report.

The report has a long title that includes the terms “NJ’s fiscal cliff” and “the five-year revenue gap.” It’s about 20 pages long, but the title tells you most of what you need to know about its conclusions and our state’s financial condition.

It found that, even if the state somehow manages to take in all the revenue it needs for the current budget, there’s an 80% chance that revenues will fall $3.2 billion to $7.1 billion short of what’s needed to keep state programs and aid amounts at current levels over the next four budget years. Under scenarios the MYBW considers more likely, revenue will fall short between $16 billion and $25 billion of what’s likely needed for current programs and big new ones, like the Stay NJ senior property tax relief program. It’s time for the state to reform its own spending, and stop causing financial havoc for high-quality schools like Jackson’s.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 12 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex) and on Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.

Senators Want Vote.gov To Be Modernized

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined a group of 13 Senators requesting updates on how Vote. gov will be modernized.

The senators wrote to U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) Administrator Robin Carnahan regarding GSA’s implementation of President Biden’s 2021 Executive Order. The letter requests updates as the agency implements the Executive Order

by modernizing Vote.gov to promote and increase voting access.

“The Voting Executive Order specifically instructed GSA to take steps to modernize and improve Vote.gov, an official website of GSA, in partnership with the Election Assistance Commission, agencies, and key stakeholders. The Executive Order’s section on vote.gov modernization requires the website (as well as the forms on it) to become accessible to people with disabilities, accessible to people who speak non-English languages, and – to the extent possible –fully usable as an online experience,” the lawmakers wrote.

With many federal agencies directing their users to Vote.gov, the letter highlights how the success of the administration’s efforts to promote voting hinge on the modernization and accessibility of the website.

“Vote.gov serves as the primary federal resource for voters to register to vote, check their voter registration status, and fi nd voting information. These services are essential to the one in four eligible voters who are not registered to vote,” the lawmakers continued.

The Senators applaud the actions GSA has taken so far to implement the voting executive order - actions like translating voter information into 16 additional languages.

The Senators emphasized the urgency and significance of swiftly continuing this prog-

ress and promptly implementing further changes needed to improve Vote.gov

Specifically, the Senators asked GSA respond to the following requests:

(1) A complete outline of GSA’s implementation plan of the voting executive order;

(2) An accompanying status update and timeline on their execution and/or implementation; and

(3) The date the Administration expects the implementation and Vote.gov modernization to be substantially complete.

The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Jon Ossoff (DGA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (DMA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

Two O cers Graduate From Police Academy

JACKSON – The Jackson Township Police Department is proud to announce the newest additions to its growing force!

Officer Peter Lauria and Officer Cole Olejarz were among the graduates from the Ocean County Police Academy’s 116th Class.

With these graduations this brings the total amount of sworn officers to 108. They congratulate both officers on their successful completion of the Ocean County Police Academy and wish them continued professional success as they enter the Field Training program.

Two Jackson MUA Employees Will Do e Job of Director

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – The township Municipal Utilities Authority will be paying $750 each week to two high ranking employees of that agency to perform the work of the authority’s director.

James R. Diaz and Earl Quijano will receive will receive compensation for doing that work until the MUA appoints

a new director.

Last month, the MUA pulled a motion to hire a new director from its agenda. That January 25 meeting was the last for MUA Vice Chair Clara Glory who was not re-appointed to the MUA during the township’s reorganization meeting in early January. She had served as a member of the MUA for several years.

New Egypt Volunteer Fire Company Comedy Show

NEW EGYPT – The New Egypt Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 is hosting a Comedy Show Fundraiser on March 23.

Tickets will be on sale at the fi rehouse every Thursday between 6 and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $40 per person and include beer, wine and soft drinks, a full roast beef dinner followed by a two-hour comedy show at 8 p.m.

For information, call Don at 609-234-0608.

Beginner Salsa Class At OCC

TOMS RIVER – Who doesn’t want to be able to salsa dance? Upbeat and flirty with cool arm styling. This class will prepare you to be able to dance salsa socially.

Scheduled Classes: March 20, 27; April 10, 17, 24; May 1 (possible make-up/reschedule May

8). End of Semester Practice Party at Le Fleur Ballroom, Bed & Breakfast on May 1 (or May 8). Instructor: Missy Piegaro, ISTD-International and Modern Ballroom Dance. Questions or help registering? Call OCVTS Office 732-473-3100.

Emily Ingram

Photo courtesy Jackson Police

Jackson Fire ghters Presents: Comedy Night, Gi Auction, & Pasta Dinner

JACKSON – Get ready to laugh your socks off at the Jackson Firefighters Presents: Comedy Night, Gift Auction, & Pasta Dinner! Join on April 6 for a night filled with hilarious stand-up comedy, fantastic prizes, and a delicious pasta dinner that will leave you wanting more.

Located at the fi rehouse at 113 North New Prospect Road, this in-person event promises to be a night to remember. The talented comedians will have you rolling in the aisles with their witty jokes and funny anecdotes.

But that’s not all! As part of this event, you’ll also get to enjoy a delicious pasta dinner as well as a gift raffle with a plethora of prizes. Come on down and enjoy the show, eat some delicious food, and maybe

even walk away with some fantastic prizes! So, mark your calendars and join us for a night of laughter and great food. Don’t miss out on the Jackson Firefighters Presents: Comedy Night, Gift Auction, & Pasta Dinner at 113 North New Prospect Road, Jackson Township. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Proceeds are to benefit The Kyle Graham Family. Kyle battled an aggressive form of glioblastoma over a four-month period. Unfortunately, he lost that battle in December. Please help as they celebrate his life and help his family during this time.

Tickets are $40 an only being sold online. Purchase at: eventbrite.com/e/jackson-firefi ghters-presents-comedy-night-gift-auction-pasta-dinner-tickets-779451038037.

First Annual Junior Police Summer Camp

PLUMSTED – Attention residents of Plumsted Township! Applications are now being accepted for the First Annual Junior Police Summer Camp.

This five-day program will be open to Plumsted residents only in grades 6 th through 8th who will have the opportunity to see what it’s like to go through a day in the life of a police officer with the following:

Real life police scenarios

Physical training

Mock motor vehicle stops

Fire/EMS presentations

Team building exercises

Crime scene investigations

New Jersey State Police helicopter landing K9 demonstration

Summer Camp dates are set July 29 through August 2. Any questions can be addressed to Patrolman Goldfluss #290 at mgoldfluss@plumstedpolice.org. Application deadline is April 1.

Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption

JACKSON – Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Reba is still looking for her furever home. She will greet you at the door and cuddle with you all night. She is approximately 3 years young. She is an amazing kitty that deserves the very best home.

Do you have room in your heart for a purrfect kitty?

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then find homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages. While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfinder.com.

Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

How Are Hearing And Cognition Related To Each Other?

We HEAR with our ears and LISTEN with our brain. Our brain plays a significant role in our ability to hear.

With untreated hearing loss, you have to work harder to make sense of what people are saying. This is called having a higher “cognitive load”.

Having a higher “cognitive load” can affect your memory and how you process information.

Be empowered to make changes!

Lifestyle factors can impact cognitive impairment. Address these risk factors:

• Hearing Loss

• Vision Loss

• Medication Side Effects

• Vitamin B12 Deficiency

• Diabetes

• Cardiovascular Issues

• Sleep Disorders

• Poor Lifestyle Choices

• Brain Fog

• Sports that Impact the Head Stress

Your Hearing Healthcare Professional’s assessment includes a cognitive screening that will help you understand how you are processing information, organizing your thoughts, and remembering things. Cognivue Thrive is a personalized, consistent and reliable way to receive an overall screening of your brain health.

• Self-administered 5-10 minute assessment

• Non-invasive

• Interactive

• Immediate results with a simple report

Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at 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!

Rhythm Of e Dance At Grunin Center For e Arts

TOMS RIVER – Rhythm of the Dance will undertake a Global tour in 2024 to celebrate its “25th Anniversary Tour.” Featuring world class musicians who play live on stage, Star vocalists singing live and world champion dancers, the show is a completely captivating experience of pulsating rhythms performed at lightning speed and slick choreography by its ensemble of Champion step dancers and live band bringing who have brought audiences to their feet around the World.

Join on March 13 at 7 p.m. at the Grunin

Center for the Arts, on a journey through Ireland’s history from the ancient, rich in legend and myth, to the modern, urban Ireland that we see today, bursting with talent.

It will be Irish in essence with a new edge from its roots in Sean Nos (meaning old style) to the modern style we see today, this new Production of Rhythm of the dance takes the audience on a thrilling breathless journey for two hours.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit grunincenter.org.

Second Annual 5K & 1K Walk/Run

TOMS RIVER – Just Believe Inc. is hosting their second annual 5K & 1K Walk/Run on May 11 at Winding River Park Toms River.

Just Believe helps our homeless and disenfranchised communities in the Ocean County area. Race start time will begin at 8 a.m. Packet pick up May 10 from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. at 734 Route 37 W, Suite #5, Toms

River. Packet pick up is also available race day at race site.

Register by April 15 at raceforum.com/ believe or call 732-569-0643. Cost is $30 for the 5K run/walk; $20 for the 1K run/walk. Registration fees include park and mission hydration stations on course, race, refreshments and award ceremony.

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

is best for you. It’s about comfort versus environmental concern.

Should you buy virgin white soft toilet paper or should you buy recycled paper because it’s thought to be more eco-friendly?

That decision is entirely up to you. Right now, I’ll share some information about each type of toilet paper so you can have more information. Let’s start with recycled paper.

To make new toilet paper, companies have to cook virgin wood pulp. Virgin means that the wood pulp hasn’t been used before. It’s not being recycled, it’s new. The process requires some boiling, some bleaching (usually with non-chlorine agents), and then the addition of softeners to make it feel nice on your skin. Imagine squeezing the Charmin, lol!

Creating recycled toilet paper may be more labor intensive because it takes more time and chemicals. The reason is that recycling companies begin the process with things that we’ve recycled - that’s how they get their ‘wood pulp.’ It’s not from a tree.

So, for example, they use magazines, paper plates, newspapers, cardboard, and other paper items you dump into your recycle bin. These paper products have all kinds of writing and pictures on them, so de-inking chemicals are required to get the colors off there. It’s a tedious process to de-ink recycled pulp but they need to

because everyone likes white toilet paper. For this reason, toilet paper requires (and has residue of) more chemicals than virgin paper! They may also have extra softeners and/or perfumes to improve their feel. And it’s not just toilet paper, it’s in certain baby wipes, flushable adult wipes, facial tissue, and some paper towels.

Even Time Magazine wrote an article entitled, “Now We Need to Worry About Harmful ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Our Toilet Paper Too.”

BPAs have been detected in some recycled toilet papers and these chemicals are hormone disruptors.

So, in summary the pros of recycled toilet paper brands are sustainability, and it puts to good use all that junk mail you throw out! On the downside, it probably requires and contains a few more chemicals. Does this make it more eco-friendly or not? I’m uncertain at this point. Some people worry that it isn’t completely sanitized, but that fear is not warranted.

The pros of virgin toilet paper are softness and wet strength. Most people think it feels better on their skin, but the downside is it requires new wood pulp. Most people today are mindful of our planet’s resources.

When going to the bathroom, likely, you’ve only thought about which direction the toilet paper rolls out from! I’ve shared some insights to help you ponder over this crucial choice. Should you wish for a deeper dive into the topic, a more detailed and extensive version of this article awaits on my website, suzycohen.com.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Free Document Shredding Coming To Ocean County

By Alyssa Riccardi

OCEAN COUNTY – Safely shred and recycle your documents throughout the area; the Ocean County Residential Document Shredding Program will kick off on April 6 in Berkeley Township.

The program is sponsored by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and is free to Ocean County residents only. This is for paper only. It’s a good time to shred documents with Social Security or bank account information. Residents are allowed to bring a maximum of four file boxes. Reusable containers are welcome. No black plastic bags.

The dates and locations for the spring schedule include:

April 6 – Berkeley, 630 Pinewald-Keswick Road

April 12 – Lakewood, 1 America Avenue

April 27 – Stafford, 379 Haywood Road

May 4 – Seaside Park, S. Bayview Avenue & 14th Avenue

May 11 – Waretown, 117 Wells Mills Road

May 24 – Toms River, 250 Riverwood Drive

June 1 – Jackson, 95 West Veterans Highway

June 15 – Little Egg Harbor, 1 Sports Com-

plex Drive

June 22 – Pt. Pleasant Boro, 2300 Panther Path

The dates and locations for the fall schedule include:

September 7 – Manchester, 101 S. Colonial Drive

September 14 – Lacey, 820 Municipal Lane

September 21 – Barnegat, 5 Lippincott Avenue

October 5 – Brick, 836 Ridge Road

October 19 – Ship Bottom, W 10th Street & Shore Avenue

October 26 – Beachwood, 1600 Pinewald Road

All events run 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or until truck fi lls. No: batteries and electronics (both are a fi re hazard), books, junk mail, greeting cards, photos, x-rays, or CDs. Please stay in your vehicle at all times. Place materials in the vehicle’s trunk and workers will remove all items directly. All documents destroyed confidentially on-site. Loads containing unacceptable items may be rejected.

Jackson Library To Close During Carpet Installation

JACKSON – The Ocean County Library Jackson Branch will soon feature brand-new carpeting. To accommodate the installation, the Branch will close beginning March 4 and reopen on or about March 18. Jackson Branch patrons may return borrowed items to on-site drop boxes, or to any OCL branch. Items awaiting pickup at the Jackson Branch will be transferred as of March 4 to the OCL Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive, 732-657-7600, or at any branch that a patron

Polar Plunge: Continued

From Page 5

Shelly, who was plunging for her second year and her dad Dan Shelly who was plunging for the fi rst time.

“I come up with the ideas for costumes every year. Last year we were Minions and the year before we were leprechauns and the year before that we were ice princesses, even him,” Evans said, pointing to Cabe. “And the year before that we were squirrels because we’re a mixed bag of nuts.”

The event which is presented by Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) will benefit thousands of Special Olympics New

wishes to request prior to the closure.

Patrons who wish to send their holds to an alternate location or who have general questions may call the library’s main number, 732-349-6200. Telephones in the Jackson Branch will be unavailable during the closure.

Patrons are welcome to use OCL’s online resources, databases, eMagazines, eBooks, video and audio streams and digital classes at theoceancountylibrary.org.

Jersey athletes. It originally began on the beaches of Point Pleasant. It moved its home to Seaside Heights years ago with the only interruptions being Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and the pandemic in 2021, when it was held virtually.

LETR is part of a state-wide campaign coordinated and managed by all divisions of Law Enforcement officers and officials to raise dollars and awareness for Special Olympics New Jersey.

Senior Director of Marketing and Communications Jeremy Davis said, “This year’s plunge is one of the largest in our history and will provide necessary funds to support programming and countless opportunities for thousands of Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.”

Inside The Law

Business Entities For Real Estate Investors

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

Real estate investors may seek to invest with other persons. This can be done informally, without any written documentation or formally. If done informally, it may lead to problems later if the parties have disagreements about the investment or if outside factors intervene. It is best to establish the rights and obligation of the parties at the outset so that all of the parties know what is expected of them and what they can expect from the investment.

There are three basic forms of business entities to be considered in real estate investing. They are:

• PARTNERSHIPS

• CORPORATIONS

• LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES (L.L.C.s)

We will consider the relative advantages and disadvantages of each PARTNERSHIPS.

A partnership is two or more individuals. A partnership may be informal (no written agreement) called a de facto partnership or it may be by way of a written partnership agreement.

ADVANTAGES

1. Easy to set up.

2. Favorable tax treatment. - Income to the partnership is passed on to the individual partners and taxed as income to them.

DISADVANTAGES

1. No liability protection. Creditors can go after the assets of the partners jointly and severably.

Marc S. Galella Esq.

the shareholders to commence the corporation. Corporation is taxed on its own.

ADVANTAGES

1. Liability protection. Creditors can sue the corporation but cannot go after the assets of the individual shareholders.

2. Good marketability of shares.

DISADVANTAGES

1. Harder to set up than a partnership. Documents must be filed with the State.

2. Acts of one partner affects other partners.

3. Marketability of interest may be an issue.

CORPORATIONS

A corporation is a legal entity created by filing a certificate of incorporation with the State. The individual owners are the shareholders. Their interest is reflected by the number of shares they each own. Generally, there is no other written agreement between

2. Double tax treatment. Income to the corporation is taxed to the corporation and then taxed to the shareholder when it is distributed. (Subchapter S corporation may prevent this)

3. There are many filings on an annual basis, which increases annual costs.

4. May need additional documents to establish relationships between shareholders.

(Example: Buy-Sell Agreements)

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES

Created by filing a certificate of formation with State. May be one or more members. Member’s interest established in the Operating Agreement. Operating Agreement sets forth the relationships between the members. Income is passed through to members like a partnership.

ADVANTAGES

1. Liability protection like a corporation. Creditors cannot go after assets of members.

2. Favorable tax treatment. Like partnerships, income is passed on to partners. No double taxation.

3. Easier marketability of membership interest if that is what the parties want.

4. Less annual filings than a corporation.

5. Operating agreement sets forth the relationship between the parties. No need for additional documents.

DISADVANTAGES

1. More complicated to set up than a partnership.

The Jersey Shore is home to many beaches from Keyport all the way down to Cape May. Here we are along Long Beach Island. This photo, taken by Louis Amendola, features the peaceful section of the North End of the island. Are you counting the weeks till Memorial Day? Just 13 to go. Have a photo of the Jersey Shore you would like to see in this space? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Wounded Warriors, Jackson

Day, Hero Of e Month Discussed By Veterans Commission

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON –The Township Veterans Commission met for the second meeting of the year to move the forward on plans for 2024. Council Vice President Scott Sargent and Council President Jennifer Kuhn lead this sub-committee of the Township Council whose primary focus is to address veteran issues and to honor those who served in the armed forces.

The members of the commission have discussed involvement in Jackson Day, with plans to revert the parade route back to Manhattan Street. The change in the route was by public demand over the years.

The Memorial Day parade is one of the largest annual events in the community and that was also a key topic on their agenda.

Kuhn said she will be working with Jackson Police Officer Michael Basso who is the primary organizer of the parade.

Other objectives included increasing participation in Mayor Michael Reina’s annual Wounded Warriors Parade and Escort held each autumn. The commission is investigating

ways to attract more attendees.

It was noted that these community events not only foster local spirit but also pay homage to the sacrifices of military personnel. The annual event hosted at the Central Jersey Pistol and Rifle Club begins with a parade that starts at the Jackson Justice Complex and makes it way west on West Veterans Highway until reaching the club’s firearms range on Stump Tavern Road.

The commission also discussed creating a platform for residents to nominate their “Veteran Hero of the Month” an initiative which aims to recognize and honor local veterans. The chosen heroes will be honored with a special display on the LED light at the town hall. The Veteran of the Month will be selected by the Commission through resident nominations.

Mayor Reina said he and the members of the Jackson Council were committed to actively engaging with the community and honoring the service of veterans through meaningful initiatives and events. For additional information, contact the Jackson Township administration.

Pasta Dinner & Night Of Comedy

JACKSON – Come out to Station 55’s Firehouse on April 6 from 6 to 11 p.m. for a Night of Comedy!

Doors open at 6 p.m. for gift auction. Comedy

Show will start at 8 p.m. Proceeds will be supporting The Kyle Graham Family. Tickets are $40. Contact Mim O’Connor at 732-272-5845 for tickets and more information.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Free Household Hazardous Waste Collection

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Household Hazardous Waste Collection program is scheduled to kick off its collection dates for 2024 on March 10 in Lakewood.

Sponsored by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program is available to Ocean County residents through the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management.

“This free program continues to successfully provide an avenue for our residents to safely get rid of items such as pool chemicals, herbicides, stains and thinners, and a host of other products that we often find collecting in our homes and garages,” said the Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea, who is liaison to the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management. “I am happy to announce we are once again sponsoring the Household Hazardous Waste program for 2024.”

The program is open to all residents of Ocean County, but businesses and institutions are not eligible. Pre-registration is required, and can be done online at co.ocean.nj.us/recycle, or by calling 732-506-5047, if preferred. Proof of residency is also required.

“Residents can attend whichever date or location is more convenient for them thanks to events scheduled throughout the County,” Crea said.

The following are the collection dates and locations for the program. The collection events are scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.:

• March 10 – Lakewood Department of Public Works, 1 America Avenue, Lakewood

• May 18 – Stafford Township Department of Public Works, 320 Haywood Road, Manahawkin

• June 8 – Manchester Township Department of Public Works, 1360 Route 70, Manchester Township

• September 21 – Toms River Fraternal Order of Police, 1791 North Bay Avenue, Toms River

• October 12 – Long Beach Township Department of Public Works, 7910 Long Beach

Boulevard, Long Beach Township

• November 2 – Lacey Township Department of Public Works, 820 Municipal Lane, Forked River

Ocean County has contracted with Radiac Environmental Services to oversee the collections at a disposal cost of $1.269 per pound. In 2023, the program collected 266,526 pounds of household hazardous waste, at a disposal cost of $250,268.

The items that can be dropped off include aerosols, auto products, cleaning products, pool chemicals, compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), fire extinguishers, gasoline, pesticides/herbicides, mercury switches/devices (thermostats), stains/thinners, polyurethanes, and polishes.

Items that are not accepted include electronics, cylinders (oxygen tanks), asbestos, radioactive materials (smoke detectors), infectious wastes, explosives (fi reworks, gunpowder, boat flares), scrap metal and unknown materials.

All materials, with the exception of oil and gasoline, should be in the original containers. A limit of 200 pounds of dry materials and 20 gallons of liquid material is allowed per household. No containers larger than five gallons are accepted.

“We always take great pride in our environment in Ocean County and strive to make sure that we keep it pristine,” said Crea. “I encourage our residents to take advantage of the opportunities to dispose of waste safely.”

Residents are also reminded that they can bring many items to their municipal recycling centers and the county’s regional recycling centers that allow year-round drop off of some materials. Those items include used paint, batteries, antifreeze, and waste oil. Residents can use the drop offs located at the Ocean County Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood, or the Southern Recycling Center located in Manahawkin from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information, visit co.ocean.nj.us/ OC/SolidWaste.

2024 Prom Dress Giveaway

TOMS RIVER – Dazzling dresses and glittering gowns donated by generous Ocean County Library patrons and visitors are about to adorn teens throughout the county. OCL’s 16th annual Prom Dress Giveaway will take place in March at three Library branches.

• Toms River Branch – 101 Washington Street, 732-349-6200, 4 to 8 p.m. March 11, March 12, March 13.

• Little Egg Harbor Branch – 290 Mathistown Road, 609-294-1197, 4 to 8 p.m. March 19 and March 20.

• Brick Branch – 301 Chambers Bridge Road, 732-477-4513, 4 to 8 p.m. March 25 and

March 26.

The Ocean County Library Prom Dress Giveaway enables teens in 8th through 12th grades to attend their junior or senior proms, spring formals, or eighth grade dances, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The already dry-cleaned evening wear has been sorted by OCL staffers and teen volunteers and will be displayed according to size and color.

All dresses are given free of charge. No registration is required. For more information, visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events or call any of the three participating branches.

2024 BlueClaws Charities Suite Ra e Tickets Now On Sale

JERSEY SHORE – BlueClaws Charities launched their annual Luxury Suite Raffle fundraiser, through which eight winners will each earn a 10-game share of a 2024 BlueClaws Luxury Suite.

Tickets are just $100 and only 300 raffle tickets are sold. Eight winners are selected through a drawing on March 22 that will be streamed live on the BlueClaws Facebook page at 3 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at: ticketreturn.com/prod2new/season.asp?sponsorid=16923&SeasonPassID=27.

“This has been one of our best fund-

raisers over the last few years and we’re looking forward to another great raffle,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “Suite Raffle tickets make great holiday gifts while supporting a great cause.” There are several benefits to participation in the Suite Raffle. Each ticket holder receives the following:

Four reserve seats to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore (set for April 5th)

Claws Cove coupon valid for 25% off. Chance to purchase a BlueClaws Luxury Suite for special rate of $600 (an $850

value)

The eight winners will participate in a draft to select their games for the season. Each game includes 20 tickets in the private Suite. The BlueClaws season begins April 5th and runs through September 1st. Ticket holders with multiple tickets can win multiple shares (for example, someone that wins with two of their tickets would win 20 games in a BlueClaws Luxury Suite).

Each Luxury Suite provides panoramic views of the stadium from a climate-con-

trolled indoor area, which is completely furnished with cable and has 12 seats on the balcony. Luxury Suite ticket holders also have access to the Blue Wave Bar as well as wait service within the suite.

The proceeds from the raffle go to benefit BlueClaws Charities, a 501c3 organization and the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. BlueClaws Charities supports local organizations through their annual Grant Program, plus hundreds of other organizations and fundraising events with contributions throughout the year.

Ortley Beach/Seaside - Waterfront 3 bedroom 2 bath with superb sunsets from your patio/deck and bayfront private home. Freshly painted interior with new flooring...very clean and quiet. $2,500 w/ Possible Boat Slip 908-278-5491. (11)

Spacious 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment for Rent - In Covered Bridge 55+ community, Manalapan. Fully renovated, new appliances, private patio, walking to clubhouse, pool. $1,950 per month. 732-829-5399. (14)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL-

RY 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. 732-849-6068 (new number). (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)

Used Guns Wanted - All 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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Services Services Services Help Wanted

Housekeeping - Serious inquiries only! Must have own transportation. Hardworking, honest and pet friendly. Saturday's a must in season. Pay upon experience. Call Donna 732-3305916 leave message, date and time you called if no answer. (10)

Gardeners Wanted - To maintain & plant small gardens. I work with entrepreneurs to build specialty gardening businesses. Call Sue 732-691-7250. (13)

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)

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)

Lifeguards/Badge Checkers/PT Laborer - Borough of Ocean Gate. Apply: Municipal Building or download application. 801 Ocean Gate Ave. Ocean Gate, NJ 08740. c/o Clerk. (9)

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)

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)

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. (10)

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)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (8)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

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)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

Handyman Solutions. All Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry •Doors •Windows •Bathrooms •Kitchen •Tile •Flooring •Decks •Vinyl Railings •Mason

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

Comic Books Wanted - 1970's and earlier. Cash Paid on the spot. Please call Steve at 732-277-7327. (9)

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. (10)

Coins Coins Coins - Local collector buying coins, silver and currency. Highest prices paid on the spot. I come to you. Call Chris 848-210-7372. (14)

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)

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)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry window cleaning, carpet cleaning. Very good prices. 732773-5078, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

Painting - Special Fall Pricing. Interior/Exterior. Meticulous work. All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (47)

ATCO Painting & Home Improvements - Interior exterior painting. Interior woodwork. Fully insured. Free estimates Lic#13VHO4548900. 27 years experience. Tommy 609-661-1657. (10)

2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 848-224-0516. email woolnoughkris@gmail.com. (t/n)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (17)

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.

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 = $

Total = $

Grant To Help Students Learn About Ecology And Wild re Safety

JACKSON – The township school district recently received a grant that will allow students of Elms Elementary School to learn about ecology and wildfire safety.

In a state like New Jersey where 800,000 people live among one of the most volatile ecosystems in America - the Pine Barrens - it’s never too early to learn about how to prepare ourselves to keep

the environment safe.

That’s the message behind the work of fire educators like the New Jersey Fire Safety Council and the Ocean County Park Department, who are working hard to educate about wildfire preparedness. Their work includes students in the FireSmart Kids club at the Elms Elementary School. Thanks to a wildfire ecology grant that the New

Jersey Fire Safety Council provided, the students will expand their learning about ecology, plant species and how they relate to fire suppression - with some hands-on lessons from fire experts.

Members of the school’s Fire Smart Club met on December 13 before the school day started, to get a hands-on lesson from fire experts about fire suppression activities in the field. This

hands-on lesson is one of the features of the curriculum-writing grant the district earned over the summer to create the program that features lessons on ecology, plant species and how they relate to fire suppression and wildfire management. The FireSmart Kids club is a new club at Elms for students interested in local ecology, wildfires, and/ or careers in fire management. The Fire, Fuels, and Forest Health Curriculum is supported by the NJ Fire Safety Council, with local input from Ocean County Parks and Recreation managers and naturalists.

Local Animal Rescue Group Asking Public For Help With Donations

HOWELL – Rescue Ridge a non-profit, nokill, all-volunteer animal rescue group works tirelessly to find homes for all its animals in need. Founded in 2001 out of Spring Lake, NJ, the non-profit group had rapidly expanded with the love and support from the local communities.

With five adoption centers for cats, foster homes for both cats and dogs, and two local kenneling sites for dogs (one kennel located in Howell), not to mention its aggressive adoption events, this group is always in need of basic supplies. They pull from local high kill shelters, receive calls for help and take in strays, etc. They are now asking the local communities for help in allowing us to continue the mission of saving lives. Rescue Ridge currently has approximately 140 volunteers and counting. This alone shows you how aggressive and dedicated this group is to giving animals a 2nd chance in life. They incur very high vet bills, along with all the medication, sheltering expenses and so much more. It is with this we ask for basic supplies. “The mission of Rescue Ridge is to Rescue. Our dream is to one day won’t have to.”

Their one cat adoption location is in Pet Supply Plus in Jackson located at 2275 W County Line Road, Jackson, which is excepting the donations for the group.

Rescue Ridge is asking for basic supplies: monetary donations, paper towels, laundry detergent (he is best), large garbage bags (industrial size), Friskies wet food and diamond dry for cats, gift cards to Pet Supply Plus stores, clumping litter, litter boxes, litter scoops, cat treats – must say made in USA, copy paper, cat toys, Best shot 256 cleaner to clean cages. If you would like to help our dogs, they eat Neutro or Natural Balance Lamb dry. Large dog leashes, large dog collars and harnesses, dog treats- must say made in the USA, weewee pads.

If you or anyone you know can help with any of these items, please donate. Rescue Ridge is always in need.

If you are interested in adoption or have a question, call 732-546-8805 or text, email is rescueridgeshelter@gmail.com. You can also visit their website and view their amazing animals at rescueridge.com. Together they are “Saving Pets by The Jersey Shore.”

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Like cats, this animal loves to snooze. They sleep anywhere from 18 to 22 hours daily to conserve energy. While they look more like a bear, they are marsupials (young are carried in the mother’s pouch) and are more closely related to kangaroos and wombats. This marsupial is well-known and loved by many in Australia.

The koala consumes a diet of eucalyptus leaves, eating over two pounds a day. They prefer the nutritious leaves of the eucalyptus witch are found at the top of the tallest trees. Not only do they eat eucalyptus, but they spend most of their time sitting in them. As a result, they take on the aroma of eucalyptus which serves as a natural insect repellent. A koala infant is called a joey, the same as a baby kangaroo. At birth they are the size of a peanut. They have no sight or hearing ability but still manage to use their natural instincts to immediately climb up to their mother’s pouch. Once in the pouch they will continue to develop over the next six months. At 12 months of age, they will begin to migrate away from the mother, and by two or three years of age, they will begin to reproduce.

Solitary animals, koalas stay within overlapping home ranges where each koala will have a different sized range. This is determined by gender, age, and their social position. On average, they can live up to 10 to 12 years. The female koala appears to live longer in the wild than the male - 18 years.

Ceramics At Jackson Senior Center

JACKSON – Join on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for ceramics. The instructor is here from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by and check it out! If you would like to register for ceramics or any of their other wonderful activities, call the Jackson Senior Center at 732-928-2313 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Check out Micromedia Publications’ website, jerseyshoreonline.com

is Marsupial Is Born Without Ears

Like humans, koalas have unique fingerprints like ours. That makes them difficult to distinguish between the two species, even when looking at them through a microscope. They have thumbs as well. Two of them on each hand. Their average height is 2 to 3 feet. Northern koalas weigh 9 to 19

pounds, where southern koalas weigh 15 to 29 pounds.

While habitat loss and climate change are the largest threats to koalas, human activity also poses threats.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may

vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across

1 Praised

7 Stalagmite creator

11 Spam holder

14 Periodic Pacific current

15 American Eagle Outfitters lingerie brand

17 Whiz

18 Healthy starter

20 Zodiac animal with horns

21 Thurman of “The War With Grandpa”

22 Actress Goldie

23 Vocation

25 Baked side

30 Floor model

31 Genuflect

32 Pool or polo

33 Red-wrapped cheeses

35 Julia of “The Addams Family”

37 Area represented by Sen. Gillibrand

38 Meaty entrée

42 Prez on a fiver

45 Whole lot

46 Muscle twitch

49 Tank top kin, briefly

51 Crême de la crême

54 Writer Bombeck

55 Filled dessert

59 “Taxi” mechanic

60 __ mortals

61 Place for a “snake bite” piercing

62 “What __, chopped liver?”

63 Sequence of dishes such as 18-, 25-, 38-, and 55-Across, in more ways than one

68 Actor McKellen

69 Leading in a tight game

70 Barcelona’s naci—n

71 Flavor enhancer, for short

72 Buttonlike earring

73 Squeaky ball, e.g.

Down

1 Slight advantage

2 Apple pie order

3 Starless?

4 “You __ your best”

5 Chicago-to-Toronto dir.

6 Honolulu-born jet pilot who became a pop singer

7 Galápagos Islands researcher

8 Confirms, as a password

9 Isl. with four provinces

10 See 36-Down

11 Traveling band

12 Private school

13 Foes that seem impossible to beat

16 Bk. read at Purim

19 Rubberneck

24 Tractor-trailer

26 Amo, amas, __

27 Crypts

28 “But it’s a dry __”

29 Hints

34 Home of many

L.A. Times readers

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36 With 10-Down, politician’s flag, often

39 “The Lion King” lion

40 Word processor feature

41 Melissa Benoist’s role on “Supergirl”

42 Accolades

43 Islands northeast of Cuba

44 Chewing the scenery

47 Welcome warmly

48 Rivera who holds the MLB record for career saves

50 “Blech!”

52 Apparently was

53 Mega- squared

56 Hanauma Bay’s island

57 Gave up

58 Fan out

64 Photo __

65 Clever remark

66 Paul Anka’s “__ Beso”

67 High hybrid stat

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Established patterns may change in unexpected ways. Make yourself ready to take advantage of this vibe to improve your position and influence. Be a resource to help those around you deal with transition.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Staying in contact with your network may be more important than usual. Knowing who to call for a favor can help get things done. Be ready to adapt to unforeseen changes. Prove that you’re the one.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : You can invest your time or pass your time. Every day you have the opportunity to choose between working toward attainment of your goals or succumbing to all the fun distractions out there. Choose wisely.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):Try to let subtle annoyances go rather than becoming reactive. You may find that some people honor their promises even when you do not agree completely. People pretty much want the same things; look for commonality.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Power struggles may only cause confusion. Consider if the struggle is really within yourself. Attaining material success might be more about perseverance than by learning complex tech or inventing something unique.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may think everything is aligned for romance, but your partner might not understand your enthusiasm. It could be awkward, but find a time to discuss your feelings. Work together to determine where the relationship leads.

FOR THE WEEK OF MAR 2- MAR 9

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Distractions for dating singles could seem endless, yet the right person can be out there if you meet under Cinderella stars. You can miss your soulmate if your timing is off. Talk to your friends about your wants and needs.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): There are often degrees of compromise everyone must negotiate. If people push you to abandon your vision, decide where you can change and what can’t be touched. See where their goals align with yours.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): New beginnings under poor stars are difficult even if you do everything right. If things pile up it might seem that ignoring logic is the only way to get anything done. Take things one step at a time.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : Confidence is a form of bravery. It’s not a lack of fear but being afraid and doing the right thing anyway. Know that your resolve can be very effective when you face people who say it can’t be done.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) : There may be agitation if you discuss your plans. Even if you’re intending to commit, the initial circumstances may raise questions. Understand the hurdles you face if you decide to pursue this path.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Ignite your ambitions with imaginative ideas, insights, and inspirations. Use your sixth sense to connect with people you can trust in business as well as in love. Take the time to form new social connections.

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ENJOY A TASTE OF IRISH PUB FARE WITH BANGERS AND MASH ON PADDY’S DAY BANGERS AND MASH WITH GUINNESS - ONION GRAVY

By America’s Test Kitchen

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2024 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.