2024-03-09 - The Manchester Times

Students Celebrate Dr. Suess’s Birthday And Read Across America

Should Manchester Have A Senior Center?

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

For several township meetings now, Council Vice President James Vaccaro has been recommending to his fellow council members that they examine the idea of establishing a senior center within the township.

He’s received little feedback but during last week’s council meeting, Councilman Craig Wal-

lis suggested to Council President Roxy Conniff that she form a committee to investigate the feasibility and need of such a facility.

“I would like our council members to discuss the need for a senior services community center that we would establish in Manchester Township,” Vaccaro said.

“We keep going over it,” Councilman Wallis (Senior - See Page 25)

Students Seek Support For Fallen Hawks Garden

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

Dr. Seuss’s 120th birthday was observed on March 2 making this week the perfect time for the Township School District to kick-off its annual Read Across

America initiative. Celebrations were held at each of the district’s three elementary schools.

Students of the Whiting Elementary School (WES) observed Read Across America every

day leading up to a special guest reader event. Students were treated to a StarBooks Book Tasting. The staff transformed their school library into a student “coffee lounge” thanks to donations of cups

and sleeves from the new Starbucks location in Whiting. Their teachers, the StarBooks baristas, served students their StarBooks drink order (of donated juice, lemonade, or (Read - See Page 5)

Who Picks Your Politicians?

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – Voters choose who they want to lead them, but how did the politicians even get on the ballot to begin with? That starts with the leaders of the two main parties.

Ocean County’s political landscape will undoubtedly undergo significant shifts as a result of the recent GOP county convention.

With Democrats proving to be negligible competition, particularly in

county-level races, the Republican elite’s choice of candidates has some wondering if a select group of people actually pick the winners even before voters go to the polls.

George Gilmore’s comeback as the head of the Ocean County Republican Organization despite his conviction – and later pardon – for tax evasion reveals his stature as a powerful kingmaker in local politics. Notably, Gilmore is responsible for handpicking

members of the screening committee, who interview and endorse candidates. Then, at the convention, the rest of the Republicans choose who is awarded the coveted county line.

When looking at your ballot, the “county line” candidates make one vertical line. Often, people will just vote for all candidates on the party line, without knowing much about them.

In the race for the two available seats

(Politicians - See Page 4)

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER –Township high school students gave a special presentation during a recent Board of Education meeting in preparation of a special community event.

(Garden - See Page 7)

Photos courtesy Manchester Schools Elementary School students take part in an activity in honor of Dr. Suess’s birthday last week.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools Manchester Township High School Leadership Seminar Class students gather during a Board of Education meeting to announce their plans and to seek community support for the Fallen Hawks Memorial Garden.

Politicians:

Continued From Page 1

on the county commission, the five-member board that governs the county, Gilmore unveiled the screening committee’s recommendations of Manchester Mayor Robert Arace and Jennifer Bacchione, the President of the Berkeley Board of Education, who also holds the role of Executive Director in the Ocean County Republican Organization. With no nominations from the floor, the duo secured endorsements through vocal acclamation.

“I hired Jennifer as my executive director in January of last year,” said Gilmore. “She’s been working with every single town in the county – helping them with any issues they had and helping them with their campaigns. She developed a good rapport with people.”

Gilmore also pointed out that both Arace and Bacchione represent a newer generation of candidates, with the youngest member on the current commissioner board at 66 years old. He suggested they might bring an updated set of ideas. Arace is 30, half the age of the youngest sitting member.

“I think putting Rob with Jennifer is going to be just tremendous,” Gilmore added. “Rob’s been very forthright with the population in Manchester and transparent about what he’s trying to accomplish.”

Incumbent Commissioners Barbara “Bobbi Jo” Crea and Gary Quinn underwent the screening process to win the party line. When they learned that they didn’t have the support of the screening committee, they each withdrew from the primary.

In a press release, Crea expressed her

commitment to party unity, stating that she respects the decision of the screening committee and will continue to support the organization. Quinn’s press release cited his demanding schedule, which often conflicted with spending time with his family, especially his three young grandchildren, as a factor in his decision to forgo reelection.

While not addressing this race in particular, Dr. Julia Sass Rubin, a Rutgers professor and author of “The Impact of New Jersey’s County Line Primary Ballots on Election Outcomes, Politics, and Policy,” suggested that candidates are keenly aware of the county line’s influence in determining primary election outcomes. Her study revealed that many candidates withdraw from primaries if they fail to secure party endorsements, especially in county-level and state legislative races, where candidates may lack widespread voter recognition. Rubin added that this phenomenon extends even to incumbents.

“Elected officials are aware of the importance of the line for their reelection and the power of county party chairs to award the line,” wrote Rubin. “If an elected official does not do as the county chair wants, they can lose the line and almost surely lose the primary, ending, or severely curtailing their political careers.”

“In such an environment, it is the county party chairs rather than the voters that elected officials must please to be elected and to stay in office,” Rubin continued. “This gives the county party chairs substantial power to shape the state’s politics and public policy.”

However, Gilmore refuted allegations suggesting that he actively sought replacements

for Crea and Quinn due to their backing of Sheriff Michael Mastronardy over him during his closely contested win to reclaim leadership of the Ocean County Republican Organization in 2022.

“That’s in the past,” Gilmore stated. An anonymous source pointed out that Gilmore’s recent selection of county and state-level candidates has predominantly been from municipalities governed by the Faulkner Act, where mayors wield considerable influence.

“This move,” speculated the source, “Could potentially grant Gilmore increased power at the local level, as he gets involved in the selection process after the mayor moves to a higher office and needs to be replaced.” Gilmore dismissed the claim and pointed out that towns with mayor-strong governments are also the largest in the county.

Party Line And Primary Ballots

The reality is that the behind-the-scenes dynamics involving promises made to secure votes for the party line remain largely unknown. Gilmore said there are none and pointed to his ability to secure votes and count them. Nevertheless, the influence of endorsements cannot be understated.

Ocean County, along with eighteen other counties, uses a ballot layout that groups endorsed candidates together from presidential to municipal races. Historically, a significant number of voters opt to simply “vote the line,” underscoring the impact of these endorsements on electoral outcomes.

The issue of party organizations and their chairs wielding significant power over ballot placement has sparked a pending lawsuit by

3rd District Congressman Andy Kim, a Democrat, as he vies for a United States Senate seat against Tammy Murphy, Governor Phil Murphy’s wife. The lawsuit targets county clerks in all 19 counties that award a line in their primary process, advocating for elections to be conducted using the “office block” style, where all candidates are listed together under the offices they’re seeking.

This brings to mind Rubin’s analysis, which included documenting the influence of party lines in several races, including the 2020 Republican primary race in the third congressional district.

Gilmore was not the chair when the Ocean County GOP’s screening committee recommended Katie Gibbs, but David Richter secured its party line endorsement. Gibbs received the line in Burlington County and received 57 percent of the primary vote there, dropping to 22 percent in Ocean County. On the other hand, Richter’s support surged from 43 percent without the line in Burlington to 78 percent with it in Ocean.

“Ocean County is a conservative Republican County,” said Gilmore. “And Donald Trump is at the top of the ticket. And, we’d like to have people who have similar values going down the line.”

“Not everyone is informed on where candidates stand and what their positions are,” Gilmore added. “Therefore, they rely upon the organization to select who with them should be supported.”

Gilmore said that it’s ultimately the quality of the candidates that should matter and pointed out that the line has been defeated in some (Politicians - See Page 25)

Read:

Continued From Page 1

water) while students took a “taste” of the different types of books and topics available in their school library

Titles and topics such as sports, animals, inventions, mysteries, and even some lesser-known Dr. Seuss titles were explored during this book tasting. Students rated their book choices, shared conversations over their books and beverages, and

swapped books with friends. They even left with a StarBooks gift cup to remember their unique experience.

Later in the week, preschool students at Whiting Elementary “exploded” green eggs and ham. During a safe science experiment, students poured white vinegar over baking soda and colored food dye inside plastic eggs. This variation on the volcano science project was very popular with the kids.

Manchester Township Elementary School held a family game night during the week. The evening featured Books for Bingo. Students and their families came together to play games, meet with the Ocean County Library staff, and spend special time together over books.

Ridgeway Elementary School also hosted a fun family book gathering during the week. Students and families joined staff at Barnes & Noble for special read-aloud, games, prizes, and more.

To conclude the week of fun, special guest readers visited classrooms throughout the day across all three elementary schools to share their love of reading. Teachers thanked all of the volunteers who gave their time to come in to classrooms to read.

The children were treated to readers who are family members of the students, Board of Education members, law enforcement partners, school principals, school administration including Interim Superintendent Diane Pedroza, and many others.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Manchester Interim School Superintendent

Diane Pedroza reads to an elementary school student as part of a celebration of Dr. Suess’s 120th birthday.

Garden:

Continued From Page 1

As an extension of maintaining the Manchester Township High School (MTHS) Fallen Hawks Garden, these students are hosting a candlelight vigil to honor Hawks lost during their time at MTHS and they are seeking help from the community.

The garden reopened in the spring of 2021 and each year’s Leadership Seminar Class has taken on the responsibility of maintaining and improving it. This year’s Leadership Seminar students decided to host a candlelight vigil.

The Fallen Hawks Memorial Garden is located outdoors in the center of the high school. This is where former students and staff members are memorialized. Each individual has a personalized plaque that is displayed on the garden wall. The vigil will bring families of these fallen Hawks together for an evening of candlelight and words of remembrance.

These students are calling on community members to help them provide a special experience for families of the fallen Hawks. They are looking for monetary and/or gift card donations to purchase butterflies for a release, candles, and general event supplies; food and beverage donations from local restaurants and businesses; gift cards from restaurants and local businesses to purchase refreshments; landscaping support to help freshen up the garden and gazebo, remove dead plants, and landscape the pond, flower donations, and more.

Interested individuals, groups, com-

munities and businesses who wish to make a donation and supporting the MTHS Leadership Seminar Students in this community connection project should contact their teacher, Sarah Paturzo at spaturzo@mtschools.org.

Donations can be mailed directly to Manchester Township High School, Leadership Seminar Event c/o Mrs. Sarah Patruzo 101 Hawks Way, Manchester Township, NJ 08759

Students are hoping for monetary or gift card donations to be sent by April 1to provide them enough time to order the event supplies and food.

The MTHS Fallen Hawks Memorial Garden was created in 2012 by members of the Class of 2014 to honor those who passed away while they were a student or staff member at the Home of the Hawks.

The Class of 2014 experienced the loss of multiple classmates and teachers which motivated them to create this sacred space

in remembrance of their peers.

The Leadership Seminar students from the 2020-2021 school year took on the project of restoring, improving, and gaining approval for the reopening of the garden. For more information about the Fallen Hawks Memorial Garden, please visit: Fallen Hawks Memorial Garden - Home.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

A Manchester High School student speaks during a township Board of Education meeting.

John R. Lewis Voting Rights And Advancement Act Re-Introduced

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (DCT), and Laphonza Butler (D-CA), along with Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, reintroduced the John R. Lewis Voting Advancement Act, legislation that would update and restore critical safeguards of the original Voting Rights Act.

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s damaging Shelby County decision in 2013 - which crippled the federal government’s ability under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to prevent discriminatory changes to voting laws and procedures

- states across the country have unleashed a torrent of voter suppression schemes that have systematically disenfranchised tens of thousands of American voters. The Supreme Court’s decision in Brnovich delivered yet another blow to the Voting Rights Act, by making it significantly harder for plaintiffs to win lawsuits under the landmark law against discriminatory voting laws or procedures.

“A decade ago when it gutted critical components of the Voting Rights Act, the Supreme Court opened the floodgates to concerted efforts to deny voting rights. These efforts have relentlessly targeted Black voters and marginalized communities,” said Senator Booker. “The right to vote is sacred for all Americans, and Congress must act urgently to defend it. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act honors the legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis and so many

civil rights activists by protecting and expanding voting rights in our country to help ensure that every vote counts.”

“In our nation, there’s no freedom more fundamental than the right to vote,” said Senator Durbin. “But over the past several years, there has been a sustained effort to chip away at the protections guaranteed to every American under the Voting Rights Act. That’s why we’ve joined together today to reintroduce a bill that would not only restore the protections of the Voting Rights Act, but strengthen it - the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.”

“I was Congressman Lewis’ pastor, but he was my mentor and hero because he believed voting is a sacred undertaking that’s about more than a person’s voice, it’s about their humanity. That’s why this legislation is more important than ever, because the fight to protect voting rights and voting access for every eligible American remains unfinished, and even worse, so much of the progress Congressman Lewis fought for is being rolled back,”

said Senator Warnock. “I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation with Chair Durbin, and as we work to pass it into law, I look forward to building on John Lewis’ lifetime of service to honor him by protecting the sacred right to vote.”

Chair Durbin also announced that the Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a full committee hearing on the ongoing need for the John R. Lewis Voting Advancement Act amidst continued voter suppression efforts in Republican-led states on Tuesday, March 12.

The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is endorsed by hundreds of organizations, including the following leading civil rights organizations: The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF), MALDEF, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, and Demos.

$8 Million In Grants To Support Apprenticeship Programs

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has awarded $7.9 million in the most recent round of grant funding through the Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) and Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) grant programs to foster the creation and expansion of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs throughout the state.

Since Governor Murphy took office in 2018, the state has invested approximately $60 million through grant programs to create and develop work-based learning, pre-apprenticeship, and apprenticeship programs across the state. This has supported the creation of 678 new Registered Apprenticeship programs in New Jersey – a more than 100 percent increase – and enabled 17,454 new apprentices to be onboarded. The state currently has 8,611 active apprentices in 1,289 programs.

“Apprenticeship programs are a win-win for businesses and their workforces,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. “Through these programs, employers can build lasting talent pipelines and shape the skilled employees they need to stay competitive, while workers earn a wage along with acquiring advanced training to

boost their careers.”

GAINS

A total of $5 million has been awarded to 13 grantees through the GAINS program, with the expectation of placing 1,018 new apprentices in occupations such as cryogenics mechanical technician, K-12 teacher apprentice, wastewater treatment plant operator, robotics technician, and more.

The GAINS program develops new and existing apprenticeship programs and creates Registered Apprenticeship programs in high-growth industries, with a focus on equality of opportunity, upward mobility, and economic fairness.

“We are absolutely thrilled and deeply grateful to be an awardee of the 2024 GAINS grant,” said Gabriela Timothy, founder and CEO of Learned Potential LLC, a recent GAINS grantee. “This incredible opportunity will propel us closer to our mission of empowerment through education. With this grant, we can establish our Teacher Apprenticeship program and hire a dedicated team to ensure its successful launch and implementation.”

GAINS has provided unprecedented opportunities for women and people of color, with more than two-thirds of GAINS grantees being women or minorities. Women account for about half of GAINS apprentices, greater than five times the statewide average. The GAINS program alone has more than doubled the number of women enrolled in Registered Apprenticeship programs in New Jersey.

PACE

The PACE program has granted just over $2.9 million to eight awardees to place 470 pre-apprentices in occupations including home health care, massage therapy, advanced manufacturing, and fiber optics, among others.

PACE was developed primarily to alleviate economic barriers that hinder upskilling. Programs provide job readiness, essential skills, and occupation-specific training, and funding can be used to offer stipends to offset costs of supportive services, such as childcare and transportation.

Noted by Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, President of the County College of Morris, a PACE grantee: “Receiving the Department of Labor PACE grant positively impacts our students, manufacturing partners, the college, and the communities we serve.

We are grateful to provide students with opportunities to be educated and trained in manufacturing, develop their resumes through apprenticeship programs, and be placed in jobs earning family sustaining wages.”

Pre-apprenticeship programs funded through PACE provide education and training to prepare participants for placement into a Registered Apprenticeship program, into a post-secondary college or occupation-specific career training program, or into the workforce. PACE programs must be partnered with at least one Registered Apprenticeship program sponsor. Together, the programs expand career pathways with industry-based training and classroom instruction, leading to better-paying positions and advanced credentials.

NOTICE OF MEETING FOR THE BOARD OF SCHOOL ESTIMATE OF THE OCEAN COUNTY VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that the meeting of the Board of School Estimate of the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District is scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 3:00 p.m., in the Ocean County Administration Building, 101 Hooper Avenue, Room 304, Toms River, New Jersey, for the purpose of reviewing and approving the proposed budget for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District for the 2024-2025 school year.

Formal action will be taken at this meeting.

Stephen J. Brennan, CPA, MBA Secretary, Board of School Estimate

ommUnitY n eWS

Egg My Yard

MANCHESTER – Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Shore Pines Region, present Egg My Yard. Let Senior Girl Scout Troop 297 transform your yard into an egg-stravagant wonderland with treat filled eggs! Open to All Manchester Township, Whiting, and Lakehurst residents!

Two dates to choose from: March 29 (6 to 8 p.m.) or March 30 (5 to 8 p.m.) Egg package

costs: 20 eggs for $10; 40 eggs for $20; 80 eggs for $40.

To register pay by Venmo @gsjs-troop. Or mail a check and form to GS Troop 297 at 809 Birmingham Avenue Toms River, NJ 08757. Make check out to GS Troop 297.

Money Earner for Senior Girl Scout Troop 297 for upcoming camping trips. Questions? Email Jenny at gsoutings@gmail.com.

New Free Dementia Enrichment Program –Movement, Music & Memories

MANCHESTER – A multi-sensory hourlong program using the power of Music and Movement to increase connection, spark memories, stimulate cognition and provide joy.

Caregivers must be present. Weekly Sessions third Thursday of each month at 11 a.m.

First session is March 14. Pre-registration is required.

For information and to register, Contact Fran Pannella at 732-801-8191 or movementmusicmemories@gmail.com.

See more information including video sample: facebook.com/movementmusicmemories.

St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon And Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 3 St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon and Dance will be on March 17 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road.

Music by DJ Johnny. Cost is $15 per person. Includes: corn beef or turkey sandwich, coleslaw, pickles, chips, soda, tea, coffee

and cake. 50/50 tickets will be sold. Tickets available at Unity Hall on Mondays from 9 to 11 a.m. until March 11. Tickets will not be sold at the door. No refunds unless canceled.

For more information contact 1-848-227-1118 or Cwv3residentclubevents@gmail.com.

Trivia Event For AmandaCharity Fundraiser Event

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will be hosting a Trivia Night on March 20 at 2 p.m. to raise funds for Amanda Rutkowski.

Cost is $20 per ticket. Proceeds go to fund Amanda’s service dog. Call 732-350-2121 to purchase. Food and drinks available. Plus a 50/50 raffle.

Manchester Officials Remember Four Chaplains Day

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – Four Chaplains Day was remembered with a proclamation presented to Township Veterans Advisory Committee Chairman Roger Greiner by Mayor Robert Arace.

The four chaplains died on the Army Transport Ship Dorchester that was torpe-

doed and sunk during World War II. The chaplains gave up their own life preservers so others might live.

A ceremony hosted by Toms River American Legion Post 129 was held last month at the historic Cathedral of the Air near the Lakehurst Navy Station within Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

Crestwood Village 1 Residents Club Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 presents Lets Dance on March 16 from 6 to 10 p.m. Music by DJ Louie.

Everyone’s Irish tonight! Set-ups included; BYOB and anything you would like to eat at your table. Tickets are $10. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Tickets are on

sale Tuesday morning from 9 to 11 a.m. at Crestwood Village 1 auditorium, 92 Fairway Lane.

Doors open at 5:45 p.m. at close at 7 p.m. Tables can be reserved when tickets are purchased in blocks of eights. No refunds unless dance is cancelled.

Photo by Bob Vosseller Mayor Robert Arace presents Township Veterans Advisory Committee Chairman Roger P. Grenier a proclamation honoring Four Chaplains Day during a recent council meeting.

Athlete Breaks Shore Conference Record

Expect High Noise Levels From Joint Base In March

Riccardi

levels of noise: slight noise, moderate noise and abundant noise.

Most days in March are scheduled for “moderate noise.” However, there are several days scheduled for “high noise” which includes March 9, 10, 11, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24.

Noise levels are subject to change without notice due to training requirements and weather, JBMDL said.

Photo courtesy Manchester Booster Club

to Devyn Quigley for breaking the Shore

Police Say Farewell To Retiring Captain

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Police Department said farewell to Capt. James Komsa, who retired from the Manchester Township Police Department following a decorated career of public service that began in 1998 with the Seaside Heights Police Department.

Capt. Komsa joined the Manchester Township Police Department in 2000, when he was assigned to Patrol. There, he served as a Police Diver, Field Training Officer and Drug Recognition Expert. In 2011 he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In 2014, Captain Komsa was selected to supervise the department’s newly formed Narcotics Enforcement Team. During his time in the NET, Captain Komsa served in a plain clothes capacity, participating in several multi-jurisdictional, multi-state narcotics investigations.

In 2016, Captain Komsa was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant where he was assigned to Patrol and implemented the Taser Program and Drone Unit. In 2021, he was transferred to oversee the Investigations Bureau and Narcotics Enforcement Team. In 2023, Captain Komsa was promoted to Captain and assigned to supervise the Division of Emergency Services.

Manchester

Throughout his career, Captain Komsa received multiple awards, including three Chief’s Awards, the Life Saving Award, and three Meritorious Service Awards. Among his educational achievements, Captain Komsa completed the NJSACOP Command and Leadership Academy, and the FBI LEEDA Leadership Trilogy. He holds a Master’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickenson University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Stockton University.

“Serving in leadership roles since 2011, Captain Komsa has had the opportunity to leave behind an indelible impact on our agency,” said Chief Robert Dolan. “He has done just that by always putting fi rst the safety and wellbeing of those under his command. Please join me in wishing Jimmy a happy and healthy retirement.”

Among those at Capt. Komsa’s sendoff were his family, friends, fellow officers, Mayor Rob Arace, who presented him with a retired wallet badge, Council Vice President James Vaccaro, and Councilman Joseph Hankins. Thank you, Capt. Komsa, for your dedicated years of service to Manchester Township and its residents. Best wishes for a happy and healthy retirement!

Recreation’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt

MANCHESTER – Children will have loads of fun as they hunt for prize fi lled eggs and visit with the Easter Bunny!

Manchester’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be on March 24. The event will start at 10 a.m. at Pine Lake Park (rain or shine)

and is a free event for children ages 2 to 10 and preregistration is required. Please register at: parksrec.egov.basgov.com/ manchesternj.

Preregistration is required. The deadline to register is March 18.

DAY TRIPS

MAR 16 – THE IRISH CABARET – STARING ANDY COONEY $136/pp at Hunderton Hills Playhouse - Includes lunch.

APRIL 24 – LONGWOOD GARDENS SPRING BLOOMS $129/pp

Includes lunch and admission.

APR 25 – SHEN YUN AT NJ PAC $229/pp

Includes lunch at Don Pepe.

APR 26 – GREEN DRAGON AMISH FRAMERS MARKET $70/pp Transportation ONLY.

APR 26 – GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE $125/pp

Includes lunch and admission.

MAY 4 – BEEHIVE: THE 60’S MUSICAL $149/pp

Includes lunch at show - Hunterdon Hills Playhouse.

MAY 8 – BINGO WORLD! $60/pp

Transportation only. responsible for your own bingo cards.

MAY 15 – SIMPLY TINA AT CATSKILLS $125/pp

Includes $25 slot play and private lunch at epicCenter.

JUNE 25 – DANIEL AT SIGHT AND SOUND $169/pp

Includes lunch at Shady, Maple, and Center orchestra seat.

JULY 7 – NEW YORK YANKEES VS BOSTON REDSOX $318/pp

All inclusive suite. Includes ballpark, concessions menu, non-alcoholic beverages, domestic beer & bud light seltzers. AC in suite also, outdoor seating. Located left field.

BROADWAY SHOWS – INCLUDE LUNCH BEFORE SHOW & ORCHESTRA SEAT

MAY 20 – WATER FOR ELEPHANTS $199/pp

JUNE 26 – HELLS KITCHEN $175/pp

MULTI-DAY TRIPS

MAY 20-25 – 6 DAY GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS $1449/pp Dbl. Occ.

SEPT 2-5 – 4 DAY NEWPORT & BLOCK ISLAND $1079/pp Dbl. Occ.

SEPT 2-8 – 8 DAY NASHVILLE & MEMPHIS MUSIC CITY TOUR $1876/pp Dbl Occ.

SEPT 9-15 – 7 DAY MYRTLE BEACH

Photo courtesy Manchester Police

Regional Day School Student Of The Month

MANCHESTER – Congratulations to Shandrea for being named Regional Day School’s Student of the Month! Shandrea is a very friendly young lady with the most beautiful and contagious smile. She loves music and knows all the lyrics to songs from Disney movies. Shandrea has a great sense

of humor and she always reminds us of the schedule by saying, “It’s time for lunch” or “Time to go home.” Shandrea makes sure that we can hear her clear request for a cookie, which is her reward at the end of the day for good behavior. Congratulations to the Student of the Month!

Cedar Glen Lakes Upcoming Events

WHITING – Cedar Glen Lakes will be hosting the following upcoming events: St. Patrick’s Day Dance: March 9 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Lakeside Hall, 100 Michigan Avenue. Tickets are $18 and includes coffee and cake plus other surprises. BYOB and snacks. Music by DJ Joe. For tickets and more information

contact Rich Levin at 732-966-6434. Karaoke & Pizza Night: April 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Lakeside Hall, 100 Michigan Avenue. Tickets are $20. Tickets are on sale on Tuesdays and Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. until March 14. Contact Vinnie G. for more information at 201214-5072.

Flea Market

WHITING – Crestwood Village 2 Residents Club will be holding a Flea Market on April 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Harmony Hall. Wide variety of household items, jewelry, collect-

ibles, books, toys, clothes, crafts, linens and much more! 50-50 drawing (Winner need not be present). For information, contact Patti C. at 609-744-8353.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Photo

completed his Orthopedic Surgery residency at Je erson 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 eld 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.

An Evening With The Jukebox Legends

WHITING – The Toms River Lions Club presents an evening with The Jukebox Legends featuring Joe Leo, Billy Sagarese and Tommy Smooth.

Singing all your favorite songs from the 50s,

60s, and 70s at Crestwood Village II Harmony Hall, 470 Rote 530 Whiting, on April 6 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $20 per person. For tickets, call Mel at 732-239-8968 or Joe Leo at 732-300-3518.

Village 2 Residents Club Annual Soup Luncheon

WHITING – Crestwood Village 2 Residents Club Annual Soup Luncheon will be on March 13 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Harmony Hall.

Come out a join for a hot bowl of homemade soup, salad, and dessert! You can choose from a variety of soups.

Cost is $6 for members; $7 for non-members. Tickets sold every Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Harmony Hall through March 6. No tickets will be sold at the door.

For additional information call Linda T. at 201-600-4175.

Bereavement Support Group Village 6

WHITING – The group still meets it has not moved. The next meeting is March 22 due to Easter. The meetings are helpful to those who have lost a spouse, friend, or family member. Those of us have suffered

a loss at one time or another. The meetings are free and refreshments are served. You do not have to register you can just show up. They are held at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road Whiting in the D & E Room at 1 p.m.

Somebody Cares, Inc. Live Music Fundraiser

WHITING – All are welcome to an easy listening afternoon. Somebody Cares, Inc. Live Music Fundraiser featuring Elaine Orzechowski, singer/guitarist/keyboardist, on April 27 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Crestwood

Village II Harmony Hall. Suggested donation is $12. Donation receipts are available at Cares offices Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 48 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. No donations will be accepted at the door.

Seeking Vendors For Farmer’s Market

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township is currently accepting applications for the Farmer’s Market. If you are a farm and interested in participating in our 2024 Farmer’s Market, please email: tpetro@manchestertwp.com or call the office at: 732-657-8121 ext. 5102 for details.

Photo courtesy The Jukebox Legends

Photo courtesy Manchester

Students Recognized For Souper Bowl Challenge

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools MANCHESTER – Whiting Elementary School’s Junior Impact students decided to conduct a school-wide Souper Bowl Challenge. Students donated over 400 cans of soup for donation to a local food bank. The students were given a can to guess the winner. School-wide, the predicted winner was successful. The students also participated in the district-wide cereal wars and assisted with bringing them to the food pantry located at The Barn.

“The Beatles From Liverpool To Abbey Road”

WHITING – On April 10 at 1:30 p.m. Crestwood Village 2 Residents Club will present Vinnie Bruno with his presentation of “The Beatles From Liverpool to Abbey Road.”

Vinnie is a Beatles Scholar and 60s rock historian. They will embark on The Beatles historic journey starting from their early

days as a cover band in Liverpool to the excitement of Beatlemania.

This will be a PowerPoint presentation embedded with audio tracks featuring their songs. Costs $3 for Non-Residents Club members. Tickets are sold at the door on the day of the event!

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.

COCHLEAR HAIR CELLS…Say What?

Hearing loss affects about 50 million Americans and about 500 million people worldwide. More than 90% of individuals affected have sensorineural hearing loss, caused by damage to the inner ear and the destruction of the hair cells responsible for relaying sounds to the brain. Species like fish, birds, and reptiles can potentially regenerate hair cells, but not in mammals. It would be wonderful to just take a pill and all of a sudden you’re hearing is restored. This will more than likely not happen!

The cochlear hair cells in humans consist of rows of inner hair cells and outer hair cells. The inner hair cells are the actual sensory receptors, and 95% of the fibers of the auditory nerve that project to the brain arise from this subpopulation. In laymen terms, these hair cells convert mechanical energy into electrical energy that is transmitted to the central nervous system to the auditory

nerve to facilitate audition. The function of the outer hair cells in hearing is now perceived as that of a cochlear amplifier that refines the sensitivity and frequency selectivity of the mechanical vibrations of the cochlea. Outer hair cell damage causes hearing loss which more than likely is permanent. We are born with these hair cells, so if they die, you lose them and they don’t regenerate in mammals. However, never give up hope that someday there will be a solution. In my opinion, it will not occur with Stem Cell injections. Regenerating hair cells through gene therapy does hold promise so stay tuned.

Garden State Hearing & Balance Center has offices in Toms River, Manahawkin, & Whiting and can be reached at either 732-818-3610 or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com. We Hear You & We are Here for You!

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!

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.

Catching Measles Early: A Quick Guide To Symptoms

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Have you been hearing about “measles” and wondering about it?

We’ve seen some cases across the United States lately, and this is a very contagious virus.

Originating thousands of years ago, measles has a distinctive rash. The rash, however, doesn’t occur until maybe day 5 after what looks like a cold or flu illness.

Unlike the flu, measles is picky, targeting only humans. It doesn’t infect animals. Highly contagious, it spreads through the air, making it a sneaky invader. Though the thought might send shivers down your spine, fear not! Cases are rare, with only 35 reported in various states so far in 2024. Contrast that with 1,274 cases in 2019. So I don’t want to frighten anyone, just inform you about symptoms so you can spot it right away and keep your kids at home.

Knowledge is power. Recognizing symptoms early can make all the difference.

Here’s the lowdown: Symptoms kick in about 10 to 14 days after exposure, mimicking a cold or flu. Look out for a high fever (like 103- or 104-degrees Fahrenheit), runny nose, cough, sore throat, red watery eyes, and the tell-tale tiny white spots in the mouth.

As the disease progresses, a rash joins the scene, with a fever that refuses to quit! It can remain for the whole duration of the illness.

Feeling tired, losing your appetite, and wanting to sleep is pretty typical. Measles could be the culprit. But here’s the kicker: Not everyone will feel the full brunt of these symptoms, and some might dodge

the bullet altogether and never even catch it! That’s good news.

Some of us are naturally shielded. So, some people don’t get measles even after they’ve been exposed to it because they’ve either had it in the past so they have natural immunity, or they received an MMR vaccination, or maybe they just have a superhero immune system to fight it off! Either way, exposure does not guarantee sickness.

In the spirit of keeping it light, because I hate to invoke fear, remember: If you or your little ones are under the weather, play it safe and keep them at home. They are contagious before the rash even makes its grand entrance!

Measles can spread like wildfire during what seems like just a harmless cold with sniffles. So, an individual is probably most contagious before the tell-tale body rash appears!

So, let’s wrap this up with a reminder about the high fever that always accompanies measles… be careful. Don’t go it alone. Seeking medical advice is your best bet! That’s because complications can arise like pneumonia, an earache, or encephalitis.

By staying informed and cautious, we can keep measles at bay, one sneeze at a time.

Early detection and a call to your pediatrician or Family Care specialist can help prevent the drama from escalating. Also, if you’d like to read a longer version, I will post more about measles, and remedies at my website, suzycohen. com. Please share this article with people you love.

The Law

Beware Of The Do-It-Yourself Will

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

It happens several times each year, a client walks into my office with a document entitled “Last Will and Testament” and asks me to review it. The document is always a will that the client attempted to draft on his or her own. In some cases they used a form book from the library, in other cases they used an online service or a software program which they purchased. In a few instances, they will attempt to copy another will, either their own prior will or someone else’s. In almost every instance, the document does not meet the requirements for a will in the State of New Jersey putting them in a position where they either have no will at all or which requires a court to interpret the document for them, which could cost their estates a lot of money.

I believe that drafting your own will is like trying to remove your own gall bladder. There is a small chance that you may do it right, but there is a far greater chance that you won’t. In over 100 do-it-yourself wills that I have reviewed, not one was a valid will that would have been probated with the Surrogate’s office.

When I ask the client why they attempted to draft their own will, the most common answer I receive is that they wanted to save money. Other times they will tell me that they wrote the will themselves because an attorney refused to prepare the will they way they wanted it. In one instance a client told me he drafted his own will because he did not understand the “legalese” he saw in wills and he wanted a will that he and his family could understand.

Marc S. Galella Esq.

scenario, the court may rule that there is no will at all, thus subjecting the estate to go through administration, where the cost of posting a surety bond could easily exceed $1,000.00 each year in an average estate. Clearly, any savings of trying to write your own will could be wiped out by the potential costs if the will is not drafted properly.

Some people will try to draft wills themselves because they want to put in certain wording. In some cases, the wording that they are trying to put in their wills is either illegal, impractical or impossible to carry out. For example, one client wanted to leave all the assets to the executor named in the will and let the executor determine how the assets should be divided. In other words, the executor would be making the very decisions that the maker of the will should have made.

Looking at the various reasons why people draft their own wills I find that most of them are not valid. As noted, the most common reason people try to make their own wills is to save money. This is most often an illusion. In Ocean County the average cost of preparing a will varies from $200 to $400. The cost of having to go to court if the will is not drafted property can be as high as $5,000.00. In a worst-case

Finally, wills are drafted by attorneys using terms and concepts that date back to medieval England. Those terms and concept have a specific meaning in the law. Often those terms are not readily understood by the non-lawyer. By attempting to draft a will using common English, in many cases a person will create an ambiguity that can only be resolved by a court at great expense to the person’s estate.

In one case, when faced with two conflicting clauses concerning the payment of death taxes and not understanding either clause, the client put both clauses into the will and said let the executor decide which clause should apply. One can only imagine what the Internal Revenue Service would have done with that logic.

Your will is the most important document you will ever sign. It only makes sense to have it prepared by an attorney knowledgeable in estate law rather than try to do it yourself. The modest cost of having an attorney prepare the will is offset by the potential costs if the will is not drafted properly.

Last week, we had a beach shot from Long Beach Island in Southern Ocean County. This week, we head north to a beach in Seaside Heights. The picture was taken by Debbie Leonardis after a recent storm. Look at those colors! Are you still counting the weeks till Memorial Day? Just 12 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!

Senior:

Continued From Page 1 said. “My suggestion to you (Council President Conniff ) is that you form a committee of the council to look into the viability of it. I know every senior development has a club house so they may not have as much of a need but we can look at if there is a need and where it would go and what it would look like.”

“It is something the mayor and I talked about,” Conniff replied.

Council Comments

In other news, Councilman Joseph Hankins reported that he recently spoke before members of the New Jersey Assembly at the State House in Trenton as part of the public safety awareness committee “on a report that I was chairman of for volunteer improvement and retention. We are going to work on some things and hopefully we can do a better job of holding on to our volunteers (in the area of emergency service response) once we get them.”

“I contacted Congressman Chris Smith about the SAFER grants and the AFG grant that come up every year but we want to make sure he is in support of those grants. Every year they come up for a vote. On February 23 a letter was written by two senators to try and make sure these two grants were supported,” he added.

Hankins also noted that during a prior meeting, resident Gail O’Connor had reported about the resident of a Canterbury Drive unit who had put rat poison on the lawn as a means to prevent dogs walking on the property.

O’Connor noted that this was an inappropriate action by the man who lived there and that it would could harm other animals in the neighborhood as well as people. “She was concerned about people leaving poison out where dogs could get it and other animals,” Hankins said.

“A resident of the Leisure Village West community contacted the Manchester Township Police Department on Dec. 23, 2023, to report an incident alleging the misuse of a pesticide. The Leisure Village West grounds manager reported the same incident to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection on Dec. 27, 2023. The DEP Bu-

Politicians:

Continued From Page 4 cases. He suggested a ruling from the court (in Kim’s case) would most likely still allow candidates to be bracketed together, whether by party name or slogan.

Republican Convention Highlights

Former President Donald Trump, the sole presidential candidate seeking the organization’s endorsement, garnered resounding approval by voice vote within the county convention held at the Clarion Hotel in Toms River. Congressmen Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew faced no opposition in the Republican primary and were similarly met with enthusiastic affirmation.

Voters eligible to endorse Ocean County’s party line for the United States Senate did so discreetly within the confines of a voting

reau of Pesticide Control conducted a site visit and is reviewing the matter,” NJDEP Press Director Lawrence Hajna told The Manchester Times

The councilman said, “New Jersey Wildlife Management has a hotline. They have laws that govern in the improper use of poison.” The phone number is 877-927-6337. “They sound like they were more than happy to come out to anyone who leaves poison out where wild animals could get them.”

He would also like to see the township market itself as the “Gemstone as the Jersey Coast” in an effort to secure more small businesses, commercial establishments, franchise restaurants, and medical health care firms to provide services for Manchester residents.

Vaccaro however emphasized that any effort would have to “maintain the township’s rural character as we grow.”

Councilwoman Michele Zolezi noted her reappointment to an Environmental Protection Agency citizens advisory committee for the next two years. “I am very excited about representing Manchester, Ocean County and New Jersey at the federal level. We are talking about sustainability, environmental impacts and things of that nature and how we can work with the rules and regulations and funding. We typically meet once a month.”

Ordinances

During the meeting, the council unanimously approved Ordinances 24-03, 04, 05, 06. These ordinances authorized the sale of 2033 First Avenue to Kristine LaPorte for $20,000, the donation of 3145 Ridgeway Road to Ocean County, amended township code entitled “Administration of Government” and amended salary ranges and positions of non-bargaining unit employees.

Several ordinances were introduced during that meeting including the sale of 4 Diamond Road to Patricia and Michael Farro Jr. for $12,400 and amending and supplementing township code entitled “water and sewer” and amending the township cod of ordinances to amend the zoning map. These ordinances will have a second reading and public hearing on March 11.

The township has also entered into a shared services agreement with Plumsted Township regarding court services.

booth. Curtis Bashaw, characterized as an entrepreneur, real estate developer, and job creator, clinched the line with over 70 percent of the vote in his favor.

A decision was made through a secret ballot to replace Toms Rivers’ official municipal club, Republicans for Toms River. This club had replaced the Toms River Regular Republican Club in 2021 under the leadership of former Chairman Frank B. Holman III. The majority of votes strongly supported reverting to the original club, which had been a fixture for over five decades.

“I think the recognition of it being an official voting member club was improperly taken away for it for no good reason,” said Gilmore of the club that was reinstated. “There was a major disagreement between all Republicans, and the new club was hastily formed, and they hadn’t even met before they filed to be recognized.”

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

Help Wanted

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)

Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

Services

Brazilian House Cleaner! - Good References and Free estimate! Call me to a appointment! Lucy 732-966-5142. (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)

Do You Want Your Car To Look

Nice And Shine - Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (16)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. 732-773-5078, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

Services Services Services Services

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)

Try

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

Lisa's Cleaning - Excellent references. I work alone. I have my own supplies. Please call Lisa at 732-581-0409.

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)

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)

interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (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 •Masonry •Drywall •Painting •Electric •Plumbing •More. Licensed. Insured. Emergency Service Available. 609-384-9030. (3)

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

•

•

•

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.

I Answer The Phone - Cash paid for records. Reel to reel. 33/45. Call Eddie 732-829-5908 for fast deal. Travel to you. (13)

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)

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)

Let's clean YOURS the way WE clean OURS! - Home, Commercial, Office, Airbnb. Family Operated. Call 845-648-6313. (13)

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

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 = $

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:

If you have any questions, please call Ali at

Downtown Toms River Event Calendar

TOMS

– Get ready for an unforgettable year in Downtown Toms River events.

Cinco De Mayo: May 4 from 12 to 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Downtown Night Out: every Friday and Saturday, May 31 through October 12 from 5 to 10 p.m. on Washington Street

Farmers Market: every Wednesday,

June 12 through October 2 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 33 Washington Street

Cruisin’ Downtown: June 12, July 10,

August 14, from 6 to 9 p.m. on Washington Street

Summer In The Street: July 20 from 2 to 8 p.m. on Washington Street

Comfort Food Festival: September 21 from 12 to 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Scarecrow Walk: October 11 through 31 on Washington Street

Harvest Arts Festival: October 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Washington Street

Small Business Saturday: November 30, district wide

Wreath Walk: November 29 through December 31 on Washington Street

Tree Lighting: December 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. on Washington Street

Winter Wonderland: December 7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Washington Street

For vendor and entertainment opportunities, visit downtowntomsriver.com/ become-a-vendor. For volunteer opportunities, email: mfernandez@down towntomsriver.com.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across

1 Drains of energy

5 Prefix with sphere

9 Jousting weapon

14 Drive-__ ATM

15 Have to have

16 Negatively charged particle

17 Many millennia

18 Surrealist Salvador

19 Muscular

20 *Broadcast quality determined by a car antenna

23 NFL six-pointers

24 Beer barrel

25 One, in Germany

26 *Sine or cosine, for short

32 Mongolia’s continent

34 Load, as cargo

35 Movement-sensing game console

36 Get set, casually

37 Fireplace ducts

39 “You said the

same thing as me!”

40 Go kaput

41 Sheet music symbol

42 Really, really stinky

43 *Issue best kept within the clan

47 Cry inconsolably

48 “__ go time!”

49 Boxer’s stat

52 Tongue-in-cheek description of a mullet, and of the answers to the starred clues

57 Move rapidly toward

58 Sweetie

59 Double Stuf cookie

60 Cosmetician Lauder

61 “Yes, let’s do it!”

62 Actor Sharif

63 Youngster

64 Sitcom backgrounds

65 Breathe hard Down

1 Microwave button

2 Coming up

3 Urges along

4 Gymnast Lee who won a gold medal at the 2020 Olympics

5 Nobel Peace Prize winner Sakharov

6 Hard-boiled Chinese snack

7 Sporty Spice of the Spice Girls

8 Garfield’s drooling frenemy

9 Crisscross pie crust pattern

10 Bless with oil

11 Yucat n boy

12 Last name of filmmakers Ethan and Joel

13 Come to a close

21 Bhindi masala pod

22 Isn’t yet decided

26 Felt-__ marker

27 Material in a lint trap

28 Abu Dhabi’s fed.

29 “Victory is mine!”

30 Pigpen grunt

(c)2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

31 Put the kibosh on 32 “Eri tu,” but not “Eres Tu”

33 Look like

36 Many an email attachment

37 Low-altitude airplane pass

38 “Miss Saigon”

Tony winner Salonga

39 Salsa container

41 Formed clumps

42 Get out of bed

44 Holy Land nation

45 Step-counting device

46 Capital of Greece

49 Cosmic balance

50 Salty expanse

51 Hybrid garment

52 Pull’s opposite

53 Voting against

54 Bird in Egyptian art

55 First line on a form, often

56 “Touched your nose!” sound

57 TiVo remote button

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

Students Supporting Students: Mustang Joe’s Expands To A New Customer Base

MANCHESTER – The Mustang

Joe’s Coffee Cart is run by the students in Manchester Township Middle School’s small group instructional classes. For the last few years, Mustang Joe’s has primarily provided coffee, hot chocolate, and treats on Thursday mornings for staff members around MTMS. They then began expanding their services to provide bus drivers with appreciation for their hard work during the school year during holidays or Bus Driver Appreciation Day. Most recently, their success has allowed them an additional business expansion! Now on Friday mornings, The Mustang Joe’s Coffee Cart can be found visiting 8th-grade classrooms to spread good vibes and offer lemonade and mid-morning snacks.

The small group instructional classes were found working hard preparing multiple Mustang Joe’s treat carts in anticipation of their visit to the 8th-grade wing of the middle school. Students prepared lemonade, filled more than 50 cups with ice, and then customized each cup with drink holders and straws. They had two additional carts to bring with them on this venture that ensured a backup supply of lemonade as well as a third cart with snacks for purchase. Students are learning not only the work that goes into preparing the supplies needed for sale but also thinking ahead to ensure they have enough supply for the demand.

Each student then sets out with a job for that day such as being the greeter, cashier, delivery specialist, server, and barista. It allows them to exercise their math, public speaking, socialization, culinary, life/skills, communication, teamwork and so much more.

Upon arrival to the 8th-grade hallway, they were met with excitement by staff members and students anticipating their arrival. The treats were available for purchase which helps to fund the success and operation of the Mustang Joe’s initiative. Some classes were finishing up quizzes or exams, welcoming Mustang Joe’s and their mid-morning treats!

Congratulations to the Mustang Joe’s Team on the success and recent expansion!

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

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

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

OCC’s Grunin Center Hosts Princeton Singers

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – Celebrating 40 years of music-making this season, The Princeton Singers recently performed at Ocean County College’s Grunin Center.

Under the direction of conductor-composer Steven Sametz, The Princeton Singers provided their special brand of music. Their programs include everything from a medieval chant to Renaissance masters, from Aboriginal ritual music to Igbe chanting and Arab-Andalusian muwashahat, headlining festivals in China, Great Britain, and the U.S.

University Summer Choral Composers Forum. The ensemble premieres new works by up to 22 aspiring composers from around the globe in a week-long practicum.

Their Christmas specials are a featured part of the holiday programming of the WWFM-Classical network and the ensemble’s innovative programming is often on display at the Princeton University Art Museum, pairing Rothko paintings with music of György Ligeti, Jasper Johns with John Cage, Baroque German art with music of Heinrich Schütz, and Indian choral music with photography from India.

The Princeton Singers has commissioned Pulitzer Prize winners Aaron J. Kernis and Steven Stucky to create new works for them. Their most recent CD, “To The Stars,” features works by Steven Sametz.

They also served as Horger Artists-in-Residence at Lehigh University in the fall of 2021, presenting talks and recording new works by Lehigh student composers as part of their commitment to educational outreach.

Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled 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 AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).

The Singers have been hailed as “masterful choral singers” with a “rich vocal color” and “flowing choral tone.”

Committed to the creation of new choral music, The Princeton Singers serves as choir-in-residence at the biennial Lehigh

For information about shows at the Grunin Center visit, grunincenter.org or call the Box Office at 732-255-0500. Visit the Box Office for OCC staff, student, and military rates.

THERAPIES/SERVICES

• Hormone Replacement

• IV Therapies

• Thermascan

• Cryoskin • HOCATT

• Colonics • PEMF

• Salt Room/Halotherapy

• Theta Chamber

• Ozone • Botox

• Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management

• Peptides

The Princeton Singers recently performed at Ocean County College’s Grunin Center.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Six Flags’ Savannah Sunset Resort And Spa Opening In Spring

JACKSON – Six Flags Great Adventure Resort is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa, welcoming guests beginning June 14. Reservations are now being accepted for the new luxury glamping experience nestled in the heart of the 350-acre Six Flags Wild Safari, home to over 1,200 animals. The exclusive resort promises an unforgettable, first-class experience for those seeking an indulgent retreat.

Guests will be immersed in a one-of-a-kind resort destination where every detail has been meticulously crafted to create a haven of serenity and adventure. From the moment guests arrive, they will be greeted with warm hospitality and personalized care, with no detail overlooked.

Key Features of the Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa:

• Luxurious accommodations: The resort offers 20 glamping suites that vary in size, sleeping two to six guests. Each suite is thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost comfort and style with world-class amenities.

• Unmatched views and VIP experiences: During their stay, guests can choose their own adventure. Whether relaxing with sweeping views from their suite, participating in close-up animal encounters or exploring the local watering holes of the Six Flags Great Adventure theme park or Hurricane Harbor water park, guests will have opportunities to create memories to last a lifetime.

• Included benefits: With a two-night minimum stay, guests will enjoy a giraffe feeding, daily breakfast, multi-park passes giving access to all 3 Six Flags Great Adventure Resort parks, and more.

• VIP dining: Guests will embark on an indulgent culinary journey with featured items curated to enhance the glamping experience.

• Spa services: Guests can rejuvenate their senses at the Savannah Sunset Spa which features holistic treatments with expert therapists to promote relaxation and wellness.

• Event spaces: Ideal for small gatherings from weddings to corporate retreats, Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa offers a versatile event space with stunning views and topnotch service to make every celebration unforgettable.

“We are excited to welcome guests this spring to the Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa, where opulence meets the open savannah in the heart of New Jersey,” said Park President Brian Bacica. “Our team is planning every detail to create a luxury experience welcoming guests to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of our resort. Whether you seek relaxation, a family adventure, or a romantic getaway, Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa promises to exceed your expectations.”

Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa is part of one of the largest investments at Six Flags Great Adventure Resort in nearly two decades. In celebration of the destination’s 50-year history, Six Flags Great Adventure Resort is also debuting its 15th roller coaster this summer. THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity, the first coaster of its kind in North America, joins the highly-anticipated return of the Safari Off Road Adventure, and modern updates to the nostalgic Log Flume and Big Wheel rides. In addition, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor will open Splash Island, a new family-centric area giving guests of all ages an opportunity for some interactive fun in the sun.

Visit sixflags.com/savannahsunset to reserve your spot for this one-of-kind luxurious safari overnight experience right here in the United States.

Six Flags Great Adventure will open for the 2024 season on March 16. Enjoy all season long with a Season Pass starting as low as $13/month after initial payment. In preparation for their 50th anniversary season, the destination is hiring for a variety of positions with great hourly pay, exciting perks and valuable benefits. Apply today at sixflagsjobs.com or text FUN to 732-3076688 to begin the hiring process.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Built For Speed – The Cheetah’s Life Is Difficult

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Weighing in between 75 and 125 pounds, the cheetah stands between 28 and 36 inches tall at the shoulder. The male is slightly larger than the female. They have larger heads but unlike other big cats, distinguishing between the male and female is not so obvious.

The cheetah has a deep chest and thin frame. Their large nostrils allow them to process greater amounts of oxygen through their circulatory system of strong arteries. Long legs, slender body, flexible spine, and retractable claws allow them to reach unbelievable top speeds of 70 mph. The cheetah has a long muscular tail which works to stabilize the body, adjusting to movement of the prey, allowing for sharp, sudden turns at high speeds. It is important to note that the cheetah is a sprinter and must catch their prey in 30 seconds or less. At such incredible speeds they are unable to maintain it for much longer.

The female raises her one to four cubs alone which have about a 50 percent survival rate in the wild. Hunting causes her cubs to be alone, exposing her cubs to threats from buffalo, lions, and hyena, to name a few. They leave the mother between 16

and 24 months. The lifespan of a cheetah is approximately 10 – 12 years, the male’s being more like 8 years. This difference is due in part to competing groups of males occupying territories.

Cheetahs face many threats: habitat loss, illegal pet trade, hunting, loss of kills to larger predators, poaching, decline in prey population. The greatest threat is the conflict with humans. As human populations expand and encroach upon the cheetah’s natural habitats, cheetahs encounter humans and their livestock, resulting in retaliatory killings.

Currently the cheetah is listed as ‘vulnerable’ though some scientists are calling for uplifting its status to ‘endangered.’ Various conservation initiatives are working to help the cheetah with some programs raising public awareness of the cheetah’s vulnerability. It would be a devastating loss to lose another species.

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.

Fish And Chips Dinner

TOMS RIVER – The HCB First Aid Auxiliary is sponsoring a Fish and Chips Dinner on April 12 at Holiday City West Clubhouse, 45 Cabrillo Boulevard, Toms River.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Dinner 5:30 to 7:30

p.m. (No chicken – No take outs) Cost is $29 per person and includes fish, fries, coleslaw, dessert, soda, water, coffee and tea. BYOB.

For more information or tickets call Claire Konig at 732-281-8873.

FOR THE WEEK OF MAR 10 - MAR 16

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Some people become sidetracked by competition, but you are likely ready to stand your ground once you have made a commitment. Accept advice about finances or a purchase to help make a dynamic change.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may want to be that person who casually wanders up to the keyboard and entertains at the party. You may have a special ability, but you may need to put in more practice before you can amaze everyone.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : You probably aren’t working for approval from others, but to prove to yourself that you can get things accomplished. You should possess the drive and energy to finish a home project or complete a complicated task.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Someone may be more demonstrative or show more appreciation and affection than usual. Whisper a few sweet nothings in a special ear and you may be able to experience some seriously luxurious moments.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Accepting someone’s wise advice or making some intelligent changes could improve your financial security during the next few days. You can solidify your relationships by engaging in spiritual discovery or sharing.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Later this week you might stumble upon an opportunity or decide to try out new ideas. You may find exactly what you have desired. Exercise the wisdom and vision to make key decisions that work out in your favor.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Be ready to spice up your love life with extra passion as the week unfolds. There could be an excellent opportunity to discuss a joint future with a special someone. Friends might offer surprising input.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : You could meet someone deeply inspiring or someone who changes your viewpoint in the coming week. If single and in Cinderella cycles, it could be the person of your dreams. Otherwise, enjoy a unique friendship.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

It is doubtful anyone will expect you to conform to traditional standards in the upcoming week. There may be numerous changes that require innovation, which may mean that you can experiment on your own.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Pay attention this week while your luck and wisdom are likely at a zenith. Consider embracing any excellent opportunities to launch important plans or to make sound decisions. Exercise determination to follow through.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Getting people to enjoy losing money is the secret behind most kinds of gambling. Any indulgence is probably meaningless until you realize what you’re spending every month. Start planning for long-term goals.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You may be your own worst critic. If you let your insecurities run wild, you may see flaws that don’t exist and find ways to sabotage yourself. Learn to see things to admire within yourself, and validate them.