2024-03-30 - The Toms River Times

Fishermen Get Equipped For Emergencies At Sea

Despite the bitter cold, commercial fishermen put on survival suits to ensure they knew what to do if it was necessary to abandon ship.

By Stephanie Faughnan BARNEGAT LIGHT

– Some local commercial fishermen recently found themselves faceto-face with members of the United States Coast Guard. However, the reason behind their meeting wasn’t because they were in any kind of trouble or in need of rescue.

Instead, the 42 fishermen were all students participating in day-long classes conducted in con-

junction with Fishing Partnership Services, a non-profit organization. The emphasis of the program was on Safety and Survival Training to stay safe at sea.

Lecturers for the program came down from the Boston area, where Fishing Partnership Services is headquartered. Most were fishermen themselves with additional credentials as Coast Guard members, firefighters/EMTs, and

marine surveyors.

Each of the classroom lessons held at the local Coast Guard station was skillfully crafted to blend with the next. And despite temperatures nearly below freezing, the group of fishermen ventured outside for further instruction – and even into the cold water in brightly-colored suits.

“These are survival suits,” shared the instructor. “This is what you put on before you abandon

ship. They are the most important piece of survival gear on the boat, bar none.”

The day’s schedule included sessions on various types of professional floating devices (PFDs), proper Mayday procedures, immersion suit usage, damage control, firefighting techniques, life rafts, and flares.

One of the impactful presentations focused on

(Coast GuardSee Page 4)

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER –

Three projects were canceled by administration to save taxes, but some say that these projects still need to be done and it will cost the town more down the line. These topics came up at recent Township Council meetings.

Mayor Daniel Rodrick said that his administration has “eliminated 18 unnecessary positions” saving $2.3 million and cut “$1.5 million in unnecessary projects.”

The three projects are described in this article.

new like install personal watercraft ac-

In-house staff could do the work for $8,000 worth of aluminum siding, he said.

When a town wants a project done, they ask for bids from professional companies.

Councilman James Quinlisk asked if any of the bids that came in for the project were around $8,000. Rodrick answered that they were all around half a million.

Critics: Ciba Presentation Lacked Info Repairs To Be Done In-House To Save Money

Quinlisk suggested that this means the project was really a half-million-dollar project.

By Stephanie Faughnan TOMS RIVER - BASF

recently hosted an event billed as an in-person poster session to detail its environmental restoration plans for the former Ciba-Geigy chemical plant site. However, many of those who attended expressed frustration at the lack of information actually

provided to them.

Britta Forsberg , the Executive Director of Save Barnegat Bay, summed up her impression of the presentation which was echoed by others who hoped to secure some answers –and even some positive reassurances.

“When you approached any one of the individuals standing near a poster,” Forsberg continued. “And you asked them a direct question, they deflected away from it.”

Some suggested that

“I think it’s just a bunch of pretty pictures with very little substance,” said Forsberg. “I’ve seen pictures of birds, bees, and butterflies but nothing new in the way of information.”

many of the posters mirrored slides used earlier in the year as part of an online presentation.

Graceanne Taylor, Education and Outreach Coordinator for Save Barnegat Bay, pointed out the problems that Ciba-Geigy caused. Its unsafe practices polluted everything including the groundwater, the forests, the ocean, the river, and more. A disturbing number of children and adults became critically ill with experts tracing the environmental exposure as a detrimental health factor. Some deaths have also been attributed to the unsafe conditions caused by the contamination.

The first project is siding on Shogun, the restaurant at the municipal Bey Lea Golf Course. Rodrick said that the money for this project came from a recreation grant for half a million dollars. He said that this should go to recreation specifically, not a restaurant. He said that money could do something

“Is there anyone from engineering we can ask?” Quinlisk asked, knowing that Township Engineer Robert Chankalian - who often was present at meetings during the prior administrationhad resigned and not been replaced.

A resident said the half-million-dollar

(Ciba - See Page 4) (Repair - See Page 5)

Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

Photo by Chris Lundy Some spots in the parking garage show damage.

cess.

opioid abuse awareness and the importance of carrying Narcan in first-aid kits. The nature of the profession puts fishermen at a 25 percent increased risk for opioid abuse because they get hurt and still show up to work.

While some believe that calling in a mayday will result on a fee being charged, there’s no truth to that assertion. The Coast Guard is a taxpayer service unless someone is sitting at the radio at home calling in fake Maydays and could be subject to penalties.

One of the important things to remember about Mayday is that fishermen aren’t just asking the Coast Guard for assistance. The call also goes out to area fishermen who may be in the area. Mayday should be called three times followed by the name of the fishing vessel name three times and the boat’s position in latitude/longitude, also relayed three times.

“With safety and health and doing this training around opioid awareness and how to respond to an overdose with Narcan is really just giving you guys another tool,” explained Shannon Eldridge, a certified community health worker for Fishing Partnerships. “Another method, another way of increasing the chances of survival of people in your community.”

Man Overboard

One of the instructors shared a personal story of nearly becoming a part of the tragic statistic – 30 percent of all fishing deaths are related to falls overboard. He emphasized the importance of wearing PFDs equipped with whistles and knives and the need for regular crew drills to prevent such incidents.

It was the middle of a December night when the instructor tripped while working on an offshore lobster boat. He landed in the water and was not prepared.

“How are they going to find you at night,” asked the storyteller. “Did I have a strobe light on? No; I didn’t have a PFD on either.”

As he described the science leading to severe hypothermia, the instructor also pointed to the danger of cardiac arrest. He detailed the excruciating process the body goes through as it slows down and all the energy becomes sucked out of every organ. Cold water has a nasty habit of not only contributing to discomfort – but also making someone lose control of their arms and legs.

“You lose your ability to help yourself,” the instructor explained further. “You may even black out.”

The firsthand account came with a recommendation that all fishermen wear PFDs. They come in various colors and styles, all designed to facilitate floatation should a man go overboard.

While all crew members should be equipped with PFDs, they should also be trained in safety practices that include preventing a man overboard and a man overboard retrieval system. The importance of monthly drills to avoid disasters was stressed as a priority.

Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!

The training also covered other critical emergency procedures, including the proper way to issue a Mayday call. The first protocol includes dismissing the notion of putting off the Mayday call until the owner of the vessel authorizes it. Many of the issues evolve into big problems because someone has tried to handle things themselves first.

“Use Lat/Long rather than a geographical local name,” instructed Matt Pawlishen of Fishing Partnership. “The people from the Coast Guard are probably not from around here.”

The Coast Guard will also want to know how many people are onboard and what the problem is, whether it’s a fire, flood, or injuries, for example.

“The most important things are the three “Ps,” Pawlishen reminded. “Position, people, and problem.”

Fire Safety

Attendees were given lessons in fire science, fire prevention, and firefighting as part of the training exercises. This included classifying different types of fires, using appropriate fire extinguishers, and addressing common problem areas on boats. The presenters emphasized the importance of regularly inspecting fire extinguishers and having multiples available for use.

The speakers also highlighted the benefits of aerosol generators that can quickly extinguish a lot of fire. Backup plans are critical in case of a fire emergency, while caution is also stressed when fighting fires.

Mitch Hatzipetro is a safety trainer and on the First Aid/CPR team as a wilderness first responder. Pawlishen is currently a marine surveyor who has also worked as a professional firefighter. Hatzipetro emphasized the diversity of all of the instructors’ backgrounds added to the overall learning experience.

John O’Leary of Fishing Partnership was also part of the presentation on firefighting. Fishermen were encouraged not to fight a fire singlehandedly but to attack it with a partner.

“To take your eyes off a fire is an enemy,” reminded O’Leary.

O’Leary also suggested that fire prevention remains the best way to fight a fire - before it starts. Lack of maintenance and electrical fires are often leading causes of fires on shipping vessels.

Fishermen from various fisheries and boats, including sport fishing, scallop dredging, and clam digging, participated in the program. Ultimately, what mattered most was that they all learned something valuable – that could potentially save lives at sea.

However, trying to prove this in a court of law was impossible.

BASF,

agreement reached with the State of New Jersey calls for 1,000 acres to be permanently preserved for the benefit of the public, with hundreds of acres to be restored through a variety of ecological improvement projects.

“The company is coming forward and saying ‘we’re doing restoration to make up for

Repairs:

Continued From Page 1

project was to preserve the entire building. Councilman Justin Lamb said that only the back end of the building was in disrepair. Councilman George Lobman said that he looked at it himself and it could be done in-house.

Councilman Thomas Nivison said “We’re going to do it in-house for a tenth of that.”

Members of the public questioned why this decision was being made.

“We ran to lower taxes and that’s what we’re going to do,” Councilwoman Lynn O’Toole said.

“The grant is specifically for recreation.

The intent of these grants is to increase recreational programs for us,” Rodrick said.

“The whole building needs it,” Councilman David Ciccozzi said. “The jet skis are a good idea but this is the fi rst time I’m hearing about it.”

Quinlisk and Ciccozzi attempted to get the motion tabled – which means held off to another meeting – in order to gather more information, but they didn’t have enough votes to do this. Although the entire governing body is Republican, Quinlisk and Ciccozzi are from a different group than the majority.

Parking Garage Repair

The majority of the Township Council also voted to reject bids to repair and repaint the municipal parking garage that’s

near Town Hall. The winner was going to be Brave Industrial Paint.

Quinlisk said that voting this down will cause more problems in the future. He and Ciccozzi wanted to look at the bids to see what the project specifically was.

Ciccozzi later told The Toms River Times that he can’t research the items on the agenda because he usually gets it the morning of the meeting.

“We believe spending half a million on painting is excessive,” Rodrick said.

Council President Craig Coleman noted there are some repairs to do but nothing that can’t be handled in-house.

The Toms River Times received a copy of the bid that was put out in November, under a previous administration.

The sample proposal for the top side of the garage lists concrete spall repair; epoxy injection crack repair; recoating sections of concrete surfaces; scrape, clean and paint drain pipes; new fi ller in existing joints; replace building expansion joint material; remove and replace timber rails; and new drain caps.

The sample proposal for the underside of the top level lists concrete spall repair; epoxy injection crack repair; scrape, clean and paint steel; scrape, clean and paint drain pipes; HSS structural posts; and shoring.

HSS refers to hollow structural sections, high-strength welded steel tubing used in structures.

The middle level (topside) lists concrete spall repair; epoxy injection crack repair; power wash concrete surfaces; new fi ller in existing joints; structural concrete; HSS structural post; and rebuild/repair masonry.

The underside of the middle level lists concrete spall repair; epoxy injection crack repair; scrape, clean and paint steel; scrape, clean and paint drain pipes; two structural steel angles; HSS structural steel post and shoring.

Toms River Parking Authority Executive Director Pam Piner said at a different meeting that the Authority is responsible for minor repair and painting. If it requires more considerable work, then they let the township engineering department know and it has to be a capitol project, which is what happened in this case.

Vehicles

There was a contract for the town to purchase vehicles for the Public Works and Police departments from Pellegrino Chevrolet, Nielsen Ford of Morristown Inc. and Charles S. Winner Inc. but the majority of the council voted to cancel the purchase.

Quinlisk said that the money for this project was already voted on, and that the vehicles are important.

Council President Coleman said a lot of the vehicles being replaced have about 60,000 miles “and that’s nothing. We’re trying to save money right now. It doesn’t

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mean that in the future we can’t make these purchases.”

Quinlisk said “It’s not just miles it’s the hours on it.” These vehicles are working much more than your personal car.

Additionally, stopping this purchase restarts the clock on a lengthy municipal purchase process, and by the time that the town wants these vehicles, it could be a dire need, Quinlisk said. He also questioned where the town is in crafting the budget for the year since there hadn’t been a budget meeting for the first two months of the year.

Business Administrator Jonathan Salonis said the township has about 10 vehicles not currently being used. They should be brought into use instead of buying new.

During the public comment portion of this item, Municipal Utilities Authority Commissioner Phil Brilliant, who has been very critical of the Rodrick administration, said that they start the process of buying way before they need it. “It took a year to get a pick-up truck.”

Another resident, Jim Garwood, the retired police chief of Garwood, thought the town should purchase the vehicles. He said that a car with 60,000 miles on it now could have 90,000 on it a year from now. The cost savings comes from having to do less maintenance on newer vehicles.

“You’re kicking the can down the road and it’s not going to help,” he said.

Bill Addressing Cybera acks Passes Assembly

Capitol Comments

Assemblymen Gregory McGuckin and Paul Kanitra

TRENTON – A bill that would strengthen cybersecurity in colleges and universities, sponsored by Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and Paul Kanitra, passed the Assembly recently.

Cyberattacks targeting schools are on the rise. The real-life implications were felt in January when an attack compromised

essential network systems and forced the entire Freehold Township School District to close for a day. To combat this growing threat, their bill (A817) requires institutions of higher education to have established cyber security plans.

“Colleges and universities can best protect sensitive information and networks by being proactive, not reactive, which our bill requires,” McGuckin (R-Ocean) said. “Should there be a breach, those in-

stitutions must have an updated, detailed plan to recover as quickly and safely as possible.”

Those institutions’ plans must address potential security risks and the ways those will be monitored and mitigated. Those plans must be regularly updated to reflect current technologies and information security techniques. Any cyberattack must be reported within 72 hours to the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security.

Organized foreign crime syndicates most often carry out cyberattacks, preying on the vulnerability of understaffed IT departments and dated security sys-

tems. While ransomware attacks are most common, colleges and universities are also vulnerable to data breaches and leaks; phishing attacks; and social media vandalism. According to Educause.edu, there was a 15% increase of cyberattacks against colleges and universities in the first quarter of 2023 compared with that same timeframe in 2022.

The recovery from a cyberattack can cost more than $1 million.

“These attacks affect everyone, because ultimately a vulnerable school costs taxpayers money,” Kanitra (R-Ocean) added. “We need to ensure sensitive data and wallets are protected.”

Bills Codify A ordable Housing Rules For Towns

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed landmark affordable housing legislation to support towns in meeting their affordable housing obligations, building on his administration’s promise to create a stronger, fairer, and more affordable state for all New Jerseyans. The legislation develops a new system for municipalities to meet their Mount Laurel affordable housing obligations, replacing the current process that exists entirely in the courts.

“One of our Administration’s top priorities has been to establish New Jersey as a national leader in expanding affordable housing,” said Governor Murphy. “We will be able to create more certainty and lower costs in New Jersey’s affordable housing landscape. By establishing new processes and practices for towns to meet their Mount Laurel affordable housing obligations, we are able to more quickly and efficiently allocate funding to municipalities and support those building affordable housing in our state. I am proud that my Administration and the Legislature have enacted a coherent and workable framework that no longer leaves this issue exclusively to the courts.”

The primary bill, A-4/S-50, establishes a new, streamlined framework for determining and enforcing municipalities’ affordable housing obligations under the New Jersey Supreme Court’s Mount Laurel doctrine and the State’s Fair Housing Act. Starting with the compliance period that begins in 2025, the Department of Community Affairs will publish non-binding calculations of municipalities’ current and prospective need for affordable housing using a formula based on prior court decisions. Disputes about municipalities’ affordable housing obligations and plans to meet those obligations will be resolved on an expedited basis by the Judiciary with assistance from a new dispute resolution program.

and Finance Agency to establish a pilot program to support insurance premiums for eligible affordable housing projects constructed by for-profit affordable housing developers.

S-1422/A-3365, which allows taxpayers to accelerate depreciation of eligible property expenditures in connection with construction of new affordable housing developments in order to realize cost savings.

A-2296/S-2309, which allows a municipal governing body to delegate to the municipal clerk the authority to issue certain approvals to facilitate development of affordable housing projects.

FEELING SAD

For many people, the onset of the winter months, with their fewer daylight hours causes debilitating feelings of unhappiness and/or tiredness. The eyes may play a part in this seasonal affective disorder known as SAD. Diminished exposure to natural daylight signals the brain to decrease secretion of serotonin and melatonin, powerful neurotransmitters that influence mood and sleep patterns. Treatment for SAD may include light therapy. Special light boxes are available that give off soft light at standard wave lengths. Light boxes are about 20 times brighter than ordinary indoor lights and filter out damaging UV rays. Although a prescription is not necessary to purchase a light box, it is a good idea to talk to an optometrist before buying one.

Typical light boxes filter out ultraviolet rays and require 20-60 minutes of exposure. It’s best to be under the care of a health professional while using light box therapy. When it comes to scheduling preventive health appointments, eye exams are often overlooked. To schedule an exam, call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week. P.S. If you have the opportunity of signing up for a SAD clinical trial, be sure you understand both the benefits and the risks.

MARLBORO

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TOMS

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This process will replace the role previously played by the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH), which has been defunct for over a decade and is formally abolished under this bill. The new process will streamline compliance and reduce litigation-related delays to the construction of new affordable housing and will give municipalities and developers more certainty, which will enable smarter planning around where housing should be built.

As part of this process, the bill contains provisions outlining how municipalities may receive “bonus credits” that allows units of affordable housing to be credited as 1.5 or 2 units in certain circumstances. This bonus credit system incentivizes age-restricted housing, housing set aside for individuals with special needs, and other location or purpose-specific housing projects, such as housing near mass transit stations. The bill caps the use of bonus credit units at 25% of a municipality’s prospective need obligations and establishes related parameters for how much of a municipality’s obligations must be satisfied through housing available to families with children and through rental housing.

Additional bills include:

ACS for A-2267/SCS for S-1415, which requires the New Jersey Housing Mortgage

A-3337/S-2312, which permits “payment in lieu of taxation” (PILOT) agreements between municipalities and affordable housing projects that receive funding through the State Affordable Housing Trust Fund or municipal affordable housing trust funds.

A-1495/S-1484, which exempts receipts from sales made to contractors or repairmen of materials, supplies, or services related to the construction of 100%-affordable housing projects in order to help reduce costs for the construction of such projects.

“This new law will help tear down the walls that have denied too many access to opportunity and create new affordable homes near jobs, schools, and transportation,” said Adam Gordon, Executive Director of Fair Share Housing Center.

“By making compliance with New Jersey’s landmark Mount Laurel Doctrine simpler and clearer, we will build affordable homes faster with less cost to everyone involved. It’s good news for families across the state who are struggling to keep up with the soaring cost of housing. We commend Governor Murphy and the legislative sponsors - Chairs Singleton and Lopez, Speaker Coughlin, and Senate President Scutari - for making this best-in-the-nation legislation the law of our state.”

“Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

Bad Legislation And The Price Of Democracy

At a time when it is hard enough for the public and members of the press to obtain public documents, the idea behind current legislation in New Jersey that would block taxpayer access to transparency and open government is quite disheartening.

Two twin bills in the Senate and Assembly would revise the New Jersey Open Public Records Act, known as OPRA, which guarantees the public’s right to certain government records.

Under the 29-page bill, “draft” documents would become private; agencies would be able to exempt records and seek court orders against requestors who are

Caring For Earth Starts At Your Yard

Earth Day is April 22 and there will be lots of information on ways to save the Earth. Meanwhile, every year in the manicured yards of surburbia, pesticides and herbicides are wreaking havoc with the health of humans, especially children Although professional landscapers must take classes and obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s License, homeowners can purchase bug and weed killing chemicals at any garden center and use them indiscriminately and in any amounts. According

deemed to be nuisances; data brokers would be barred from acquiring public documents; and governments could redact more information from records.

Legislators noted the law hasn’t been updated since 2002 when it was enacted. They blamed commercial requesters for abusing the law in ways that couldn’t be imagined when the bill was conceived and passed.

After more than seven hours of testimony, state lawmakers in two committees agreed to advance the controversial legislation that would gut the public’s access to government records in New Jersey.

A number of loud “boos” and some expletives were heard

in the packed room after the Assembly’s local government committee passed the bill by a 5-2 vote. By the time the Senate budget committee approved it after 6 p.m. in a 9-4 vote the room had cleared out of officials.

The Garden State already has one of the weakest open public records laws in the country. It ranked 48th in a recent study. Should the bills get pushed through by the full Senate and Assembly open records and public accountability will be seriously restricted.

This would change how people seeking state and local government documents can appeal requests that had been denied and the route for businesses to request pub-

lic records, limit how often individuals can file requests for access to public records and end access to records that are now public. That includes contracts, permits and registrations used by public agencies.

Some very legitimate concerns were brought up by various civic, good -government and news media agencies that testified before the vote and those concerns were quickly dismissed by lawmakers.

Denying citizens and watchdog groups access to information that they are entitled to is not good government. Fourteen of the 20 lawmakers on the two committees were Democrats and six were Republicans that were part of the

Letters To The Editor

two simultaneous hearings.

Only one Democrat voted against the bill, Senator Andrew Zwicker of South Brunswick. And one Republican 9th District Senator Carmen Amato of Berkeley, voted for it.

Governor Phil Murphy hasn’t taken a position on the bills publicly but if the legislation comes before his desk, he shouldn’t sign it into law but what are the odds of that happening?

Then again, his wife, Tammy, who was seeking the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, had come out against the OPRA changes. Will that influence her husband’s decision?

Those in opposition to it

to an Organic Land Care pamphlet published by the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Conn. and Mass.: “In a review of case-controlled studies and case reports, childhood cancers linked to pesticides include: leukemia, brain cancer, Wilm’s tumor, soft-tissue sarcoma, Ewings sarcoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and cancers of the colorectum and testes.” (Environ Health Perspective 106 [Suppl. 3] 893-908)

In his book, “The Organic Suburbanite,” Warren Schultz states, “2,4-D...(is) the weed-killing ingredient found in most weed-and-

W� W������ L������ T� T�� E�����!

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

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

edit or reject letters.

The weekly deadline is 5 p.m.

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

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

feed lawn products and it’s also a carcinogen. Two studies by the National Cancer Institute showed an increased incidence of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma among farmers who use 2,4-D. A later NCI study showed that dogs whose owner’s lawns were treated with 2,4-D four or more times a year were twice as likely to contract canine malignant lymphoma.

If we stopped spraying pesticides and herbicides today, would insects and weeds take over? The true answer is NO! The Creator has built into all of nature, a system of checks and balances. Spraying chemical pesticides and herbicides actually disrupts the natural balance of nature.

Listen to Paul Sachs in an excerpt from his book, “Edaphos, Dynamics of a Natural Soil System:” “Pests, in general are organisms that interfere with human enterprise activities. If we ranked pests simply by how much they disrupt an environment, humans would be at the top of the list.”

Man, in his foolishness, seeks to control all of nature. Now, like the twisted plot of a horror movie, the

pests are becoming resistant to chemicals while our CHILDREN are the ones who are getting sick! What can one person do? Go to your library and learn about organic methods of gardening. Use an organic lawn care company. Teach a child about the exquisite balance and beauty of nature. Learn to identify the ladybugs and other beneficial insects in your yard. Call your local Cooperative Extension office (or go online) and get free information on gardening without chemicals. Let’s begin to garden in harmony with nature and make every day Earth Day!

Karen Breuel Howell

Senator Thanked For Making Street Safer

I wish to inform our residents that the extremely large oak tree that was standing dead near our property, hanging over Route 9, has been cut down. We at Mastapeter Memorial Home here in town have been trying to impose on the (State) Department of

Transportation the danger of this tree to motorists and pedestrians for the past six years. During that time, we kept hitting a stone wall trying to do the right thing about this tree.

That’s when I contacted our mayor, Carmen Amato – now Senator Amato, to see if he could help with the safety of our residents to have this tree cut down.

To my surprise, in one week that huge oak tree, estimated to be over 250 years old, was cut down with the stump grinded level and rendered safe now for all (who pass this way.)

I personally wish to thank Senator Amato for his diligence and concern for his community and for “getting the job done.” Many thanks again from all of us to Senator Carmen Amato.

Anthony P. Mastapeter

Mastapeter Memorial Home, Bayville

Voting For The Primary

This June 4th, Primary Day in the State of New Jersey, the voters will have many choices and decisions to make. Polls are open all

include social and environmental activists, voting watchdogs, lawyers, the state comptroller, and state public defender’s office and yes, journalists, civil liberties advocates and regular residents plus a few politicians hate it as well.

Don’t make things less transparent! Yes, there is work involved in getting these records to the public and the press but that is the price of a democracy. Lawmakers should realize this and shouldn’t be cheap when it comes to paying that price.

Bob Vosseller Assistant News Editor

day from 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.

First, please make sure you are registered to vote at the correct address. If you’ve moved, or changed your name, get a registration form from your Town Clerk, the Ocean County Clerk or check their website online and download and print what you need. Make sure it’s back by Tuesday May 14th to be eligible to vote on June 4th.

If you are scheduled to be out of town June 4th, please obtain a form for a vote by mail ballot. That needs to be back to the County Clerk by May 28th. Early voting will begin on Wed May 29th.

On June 4th, you will have the opportunity to vote for Joseph Lamb and Regina Discenza for Ocean County Commissioner. We are not career politicians and are committed to the taxpayers of Ocean County. Joseph is a retired CPA and Brick resident over 40 years. Regina is a former 2 term Lacey School Board Member and resident for 25 years. A vote for us is a vote for you - we believe in “We the People…”

Regina Discenza Forked River

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Photo courtesy The Jukebox

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2024 Jersey Shore Science Fair

TOMS RIVER – Students from throughout the district attended and competed at the 2024 Jersey Shore Science Fair on March 16 at Stockton University. It was a strong showing all around as usual; all of Intermediate South’s competitors, for example, placed, which delighted science fair coordinator Jessica Kurtz, High School

East STEAM Academy senior competitor

Jack Chen, and the Seminole science stars. Ditto for Intermediate East, which saw all competitors place fi rst or second.

All of the students who placed advance to compete at the Delaware Valley Science Fair in April. Congratulations to the district’s science stars!

Liberty Oak Chorus To Perform At Congregation Ahavat Olam

HOWELL – On May 19 at 1 p.m., Liberty Oak Chorus will be performing at Congregation Ahavat Olam, 106 Windeler Road, Howell. Tickets are only $12 each. Enjoy an afternoon of singing from the award-winning Liberty Oak Chorus, an acapella group from Howell. The chorus is a chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Liberty Oak Chorus membership consists of women from many different walks of

life who travel from 48 different towns in 13 different counties and three states each week to share a common bond - the love of singing.

Don’t miss this exciting show. Seats will go quickly! RSVP by May 10 by emailing: CAOsisterhood@gmail.com and reserve your seats today! Make checks payable to “CAO Sisterhood” and mail to: Janet Seltzer, 8 Colonial Court, Howell, NJ 07731.

Toms River PBA Blood Drive

TOMS RIVER – Toms River PBA 137 will once again be hosting our annual blood drive with the American Red Cross! The event is being hosted at the American Legion Post 129 in Toms River on June 24

from 1 to 6 p.m.

Please consider taking the time to come donate blood to those who need it! To schedule a time, call Ptl. Pete Saker at 732-349-0150 ext. 1362 or visit RedCrossBlood.org.

Celebrations Vendor Market

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Elks Lodge #1875 Plunge Committee presents Celebrations Vendor Market on May 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free entry; open to the public. Tricky Tray and 50/50. A curated indoor market featur-

ing products and services for engagements, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, baby showers, graduations, retirements and other tapes of celebrations.

For more information, visit tomsriverelks. org/celebrations-market.

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Photo

District Dad Doles Out Irish Di ies For Young Lads, Lasses

Photo

TOMS

– The Tim McNichols “Eras Tour” kicked off and the first (and only) era was “St. Patrick’s Day,” which was perfect timing considering the calendar. Yes, local bagpiper and district dad Tim McNichols - whose sons Connor and Colin

Schools attend Washington Street Elementary, and whose son Cameron attends the Early Learning Center - visited both schools to perform for students in advance of St. Patrick’s Day.

Now that’s a cool dad. Thank you, Mr. McNichols!

to recovery.”

Government:

Continued From Page 7

their children,” said Cierra Hart, Director of Housing and Economic Justice at the NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence. “Affordable housing serves as a catalyst for breaking the cycle of violence and abuse. It offers survivors the stability necessary to access crucial support services — therapeutic interventions, legal aid, counseling — that are indispensable in their journey

“This legislation positions New Jersey to create opportunities for every household in the state to thrive by creating a clear process to ensure all municipalities create their fair share of affordable housing,” said Taiisa Kelly, CEO of Monarch Housing Associates. “We at Monarch believe Housing is a Human Right and this legislation sets the stage to ensure every New Jersey resident has access to the housing they so critically need, in every community across the state, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.”

courtesy Toms River

Ciba: Continued From Page 4

the wrongs that we did,’” said Taylor. “The projects just aren’t very good. Long story short, it’s not doing Toms River any justice.”

Both the local municipality and Save Barnegat Bay submit that the Natural Resources Damages settlement agreement between the state and BASF is inadequate. They’ve filed a lawsuit in the state appeals court with hopes the agreement will be overturned.

The pending litigation appears to have no bearing on BASF’s plans to move forward with its restoration efforts.

The series of stations set up throughout the space within the Toms River Intermediate North Cafetorium began with a looping video display. A narrator painted the BASF site as representative of one of the best ecological diversities that the Jersey Shore has to offer.

The video also indicated that BASF intends to use the property as a peaceful sanctuary where conservation would

By Chris Lundy

TOMS

RIVER –

A study will be done to determine which roads in town flood the most and what can be done about it. At a recent Township Council meeting, a contract was awarded to CME

serve an important role and as a habitat for endangered species.

Encouraging more wildlife seemed inconceivable to some of those who attended the event, saying that wildlife is already suffering injury as a result of the current conditions.

For Garitt “Tony” Kono, Chairperson of the Brick Township Environmental Commission, the handling of the presentation appeared surreal. Drawing parallels to “Westworld,” he likened BASF’s poster show to a scene where robots break down and die as they travel by train from town to town.

While BASF representatives refrained from speaking on behalf of the corporation, State Department of Environmental Protection officials emphasized the importance of public engagement in understanding and shaping the project. Michael Palmquist of NJDEP stressed the need for clarity and community involvement, acknowledging the project’s long-term nature.

“The idea is to let everyone know what

is going on in their backyard,” Palmquist said. “It’s also so that people will be able to give some information as to what they’re looking for or what tweaks they are hoping will be made.”

Some of the grassland habitat improvements or connectivity improvement projects will most likely be the first to start when the work gets underway. Authorities have indicated that the bigger infrastructure like projects like the proposed educational center will take some time. One of the most concerning issues cited by residents is the concept of allowing public recreation on top of what’s still polluted.

The DEP’s Office of Natural Resource Restoration provides oversight for the project to ensure it aligns with the terms of the settlement agreement. Palmquist said the DEP also offers some assistance in directing what permits are needed throughout the project.

Many of the less than 100 people who showed up for the poster presentation were members of Save Barnegat Bay or

Flood Study Will Show Roads In Need

Associates to conduct a Roadway Elevation Study for an amount not to exceed $100,000.

Mayor Daniel Rodrick said that there were 20 roads listed by the prior administration that had a 10 year timeline.

“I thought that was too long,” he said. This study will prioritize them and get them all done during his first term. During the meeting, a resident living on Tunney Terrace on the barrier island said

other environmental groups. They continue to ask questions about remediation of the site and its cleanup.

One Toms River resident, Philip Brilliant, an environmental consultant who deals with contaminated sites, saw the BASF session from a different perspective.

“A lot of people have a hard time understanding that this is about Natural Resource Damage,” explained Brilliant. “This is just about restoration projects to return it to where it was prior.”

“It has nothing to do with cleanup,” Brilliant said. “It has nothing to do with health. I think a lot of people think they are going to get something from this or answers on both issues.”

However, Taylor said that she viewed BASF’s presentation as extremely vague and therefore completely useless.

“From a technical point of view,” said Taylor, “If you care about more than just the surface level stuff, you can’t make an informed comment on the information provided.”

they didn’t want the roads to be higher because that causes flooding in homes. The water needs to go somewhere, and sometimes raising a road causes the water to pool in yards and seep into houses.

Rodrick said that’s part of the study.

Pot of Tea $50/pp (plus tax & gratuity), Kids 12 and under $20, Kids 5 and under FREE Seniors $10 off Wednesdays & Thursdays, must mention when making reservation. Reservations recommended, but walk-ins welcome.

Live music on weekends. Tours given daily. Please call 732-818-7580 or visit mathishouse600main.com.

A Victorian Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room at 600 Main, Toms River, NJ 08753

Island Heights Volunteer Fire Company Annual Dinner

ISLAND HEIGHTS –

On March 16, the Island Heights Volunteer Fire Company 1 held its annual dinner for members and invited guests. The evening was enjoyed by many, with good food, drinks, and conversation.

The evening was highlighted with a few awards presented to outgoing Secretary Scott Greenfeld, outgoing Chief Mike McDaniel, and a 35 Years Of Service Award presented to Chris Maher.

They also had a special award presented to Mayor Steve Doyle as they accepted him into the Fire Company as an Honorary Member. Mayor Doyle has been one of the fire company’s biggest supporters over the years, and has helped continue to grow and be prosperous in their mission to provide fire protection to the town of Island Heights.

Compass Academy: Drugs

101 Parent Forum

TOMS RIVER – An educational and interactive hour on Ocean County substance use trends among students, prevention programs, and what to look for. Forum will be on May 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. atoms River North High School.

Join NJ4S COMPASS and the Ocean County Health Department, at an interactive parent/caregiver presentation titled: What to Look For. This educational workshop will equip adults with practical and useful information on navigating drug trends among youth in Ocean County. This event is free to attend and open to Ocean County adults only.

OCHD staff will be providing a Drugs 101

presentation focusing on alcohol, vaping, and marijuana use among students. They will also be training and providing families with Narcan. NJ4S COMPASS Ocean County will provide a brief overview on prevention and mental health services and TAO Connect. Retired police officers will be providing a presentation entitled What to Look For. A brief Q&A will follow the presentations and families will have the opportunity to visit resource tables to get additional information. Register by April 24 at cognitoforms.com/ PBHG1/NJ4S4UDrugs101ParentForumAtTomsRiverNorthHighSchool.

For questions about the event, call NJ4S COMPASS at 732-961-4354.

a man in one of the photos was misidentified. Jay Mutter was standing between Al Leiter and Todd Frazier, although he was incorrectly identified as Keith Elias. Mr. Mutter also contributed the photo. We regret the error. CORRECTION

Photo courtesy Island Heights Volunteer Fire Company

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.

Tinnitus Relief Is Possible?

You don’t have to “just live with it.”

Do you feel like you often hear an unwanted background noise, like ringing, buzzing, or whooshing? It’s called tinnitus, and you’re not alone — so do more than 50 million adults in Canada and the U.S.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus isn’t a disease. It’s a symptom, a sign that something is impacting your auditory system. It shows up as a sound that your brain generates — so only you can hear it. Tinnitus isn’t always ringing, buzzing, or whooshing. Each person’s tinnitus is unique: Some hear ringing, others screeching, hissing, ocean waves, and even music!

What Causes Tinnitus?

It’s linked to many health issues, from hearing loss to high blood pressure to head injuries, so the cause of your specific case of tinnitus might be tough to pinpoint. The sound can be temporary or permanent. Fortunately, for many, the sound is easy to ignore. But for others, it can be stressful or even debilitating.

Is It TIN-uh-tis or Tin-EYE-tis?

The internet offers plenty of answers to that question. Dictionaries, language experts, and medical experts disagree. There are many well-reasoned arguments bandied

about. But we think you should pronounce “tinnitus” however you’d like — our concern is helping you find relief!

Is There a Tinnitus Cure?

There’s no true cure for tinnitus. But relief is possible. Some methods that can help you get free of the stress it causes include:

• Sound therapy Using specific sounds to give your brain something else to focus on. A relatively new device on the market is Lenire which incorporates sound therapy & tongue stimulation.

• Hearing aids Tinnitus tends to accompany hearing loss, so hearing aids often provide relief. Most hearing aids incorporate tinnitus maskers which can assist in alleviating the bothersome tinnitus

• Habituation Putting your tinnitus in the background so your brain can learn to ignore it

• Counseling Teaching you skills to minimize your body’s involuntary reaction to your tinnitus

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer your questions about important hearing care issues. Please feel free to contact Dr. Izzy at 732-818-3610 or ikirsh@ 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!

Vendors Wanted For Women’s Health & Wellness Day

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Fire Company #1 Auxiliary is looking for vendors, practitioners, and women’s health advocates to participate in a “Women’s Health & Wellness Day.”

Event will be held on May 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Downtown Toms River. If you are interested and would like more information, email trfd1auxiliary@gmail.com with you name, business name and contact information.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The 5 Benefits Of Fig Fruit Extract As It Pertains To Diabetes

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The humble fig fruit is known botanically as Ficus carica and science has revealed that it can support blood sugar, cholesterol and gastrointestinal comfort. Eating figs is good for you!

Known for its delightful sweetness, and something I serve along with brie cheese, the fig has unveiled its potent health secret: It helps with glucose control thanks to one compound in it called abscisic acid or “ABA.” I put this in my blood sugar support formula, and you can find it at health food stores nationwide.

ABA is found in plants and it helps them cope with stressful situations like a drought or a temperature drop for example. ABA is also found naturally in foods that people eat like tofu, carob, and anise as well as others. People eat it every day but unfortunately not enough is present in our diet.

According to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, “According to the latest U.S. dietary survey, about 92% of the population might have a deficient intake of ABA due to their deficient intake of fruits and vegetables.”

So if almost everyone is deficient in ABA, and it helps with blood glucose and cholesterol, is that a contributing factor in the diabetes epidemic?

The implications of ABA-rich fig fruits extend beyond glycemic control. As a multifaceted plant extract, one I’d happily dub a superfood, I think it offers several auxiliary benefits, particularly for individuals grappling with hypertension, high cholesterol, and pre-diabetes. Here are the 5 most noteworthy benefits:

• Inflammation Reduction

• Antioxidant Protection

(

• Blood Pressure Control

• Lipid Profile Improvement

• Soothing Intestinal Spasms

Let me feature some conditions where a little fig jam couldn’t hurt! In my longer version of this article (posted at my website suzycohen.com), you will find links to scientific papers and studies that showcase the healing benefits of figs in so many conditions other than diabetes. Apparently, it can help with indigestion, poor appetite, inflammatory bowel conditions, diarrhea, sore throats, cough and more.

In summary, the ingredient called fig fruit extract (and figs themselves!) marks a significant advancement in natural health offerings because one chemical constituent of figs called ABA can support healthy blood sugar levels, cholesterol and glycemic control.

Whether you’re navigating the challenges of prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or simply striving for better metabolic health, incorporating fig fruit extract into your regimen could be a step toward achieving a healthier, more balanced life. This ingredient is found in high-quality supplements including one I have at my vitamin shop.

Always check with your doctor about changing your supplement routine, and make sure you that your regimen includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and adjunctive healthcare professionals to help you reduce complications. As we continue to uncover the synergies between natural compounds in the botanical world and human health, we must embrace these gifts of nature with open arms and hopeful hearts rather than a skeptical eye. A quick search on pubmed will reveal the remarkable benefits of ABA and fig fruit extract as it pertains to diabetes.

more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com)

©2024 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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).

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B.Y.O.B. Understanding New Jersey’s Laws

N.J.S.A

2C:33-27

By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

B.Y.O.B. laws apply to people who do not have a liquor license and who own or operate a restaurant, dining room, or other public place where food or liquid refreshments are sold or served to the general public. BYOB laws pertain to malt beverages (beer) and wine only. Other spirits, such as vodka, rum, scotch, and whiskey, are prohibited. Restaurants shall not charge the consumer any admission fee or cover, corkage, or service charge to consume their own wine or malt alcoholic beverages. You must be 21 to consume alcohol.

B.Y.O.B. laws are enforced by municipalities and not the State of New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). Therefore, B.Y.O.B. is not universally allowed. Restaurants may not permit B.Y.O.B. in their establishments if the local government of the municipality in which the restaurant is located has forbidden the practice. New Jersey B.Y.O.B. laws do not prohibit customers from bringing alcoholic beverages into restaurants or other establishments with a liquor license, however the licensee (business owner) can either permit or disallow B.Y.O.B. in accordance with

their business policy.

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

There is nothing that restricts the right of a municipality or an owner or operator of a restaurant, dining room, or other public place where food or liquid refreshments are sold or served to the general public from prohibiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages on those premises. In fact, some municipalities prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol all together. There are also more than 30 dry towns in the state which means they do not sell liquor of any kind in stores, bars, restaurants, or other venues. However, some dry towns allow restaurants to offer B.Y.O.B. Restaurant and other establishment owners should check local ordinances to determine if B.Y.O.B. is allowed in specific towns or municipalities.

Finally, alcohol consumption is limited to specific hours and like licensed restaurants, BYOB restaurants should not allow their patrons to overindulge on their premises, even though the restaurant is not actually providing nor serving alcoholic beverages.

Please drink responsibly. Call the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for your legal needs at 732-505-1212.

Spring Bling Sale In Toms River

TOMS RIVER – The Friends of the Ocean Library Toms River Branch is hosting a Spring Bling Sale on April 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mancini Hall, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street, Toms River.

Jewelry Sale to benefit the Ocean County Library. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, purses, scarves, belts and more.

Donations can be dropped off at the Ocean County Library Toms River or call 908-3077265. Cash only.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

is Wild Cat Has Been Sighted In New Jersey

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

New Jersey is the fifth smallest in land area, consisting of a very diverse environment, it contributes to the wide variety of wildlife.

Bobcats, a species of lynx, live throughout North America, from southern Canada to Mexico.

Researchers have divided the bobcat into 13 different subspecies, all varying slightly from coat colors or patterns to size and weight. Their coat comes in different shades - anything from tan to brown, spots and stripes, with a dark fur tip on their short tail.

Bobcats inhabit forests and grasslands, desert edges, wetlands, brushland and more. Their diet consists of mice and rats, rabbits, voles, birds, squirrels, to name a few. In some regions they have been known to hunt foxes, domestic cats, deer, fish, as well as other meat sources. They are almost exclusively carnivores.

So where might they be spotted in New Jersey? They used to occupy all counties in our state, however, due to extensive deforestation, development, and modifications in farming practice, they are only found in the northern counties.

In central and southern areas, sightings are

extremely rare. It’s important to note that bobcats are nocturnal, shy, elusive creatures, where encounters are more likely to occur with humans confronting them, than bobcats approaching humans. They may be inclined to enter your property if food is available. Not considered a nuisance, they occasionally prey on smaller livestock.

Females will begin breeding at about one year old. The gestation period is approximately two months with litters usually being three kittens. They are weaned after two months but will remain with their mother until the age of about eight months.

The population in New Jersey is threatened by vehicular accidents, with more than 70% affecting those under 2 years old. In 2019, 15 confirmed bobcats were killed due to automobile accidents, the highest number ever observed, as published by A-Z Animals on October 4, 2022.

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

To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

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

Learn Special Education Protections At Autism Resources Fair

TOMS RIVER – Learn how federal and state laws protect your disabled student’s right to a free and appropriate public education. Join attorney Andrew I. Meltzer for “Special Education Law in New Jersey: An Overview” at the Ocean County Library’s 2024 Autism Resources Fair in the OCL Toms River Branch, 10

a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 13.

Mr. Meltzer, of the Sussan Greenwald & Wesler law firm of Cranbury, NJ will offer his presentation at 1 PM, providing an overview of longstanding pertinent legal provisions. They include:

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

• Individualized Education Plan

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974 and 504 Plans

• New Jersey’s state-imposed rules, regulations and policies

He will also cover steps to take if you feel that your public school system is not

meeting your child’s needs, and how to proceed in disputes with a school district.

As a special education attorney and a former classified student who conquered his learning differences, Andrew Meltzer knows the challenges faced by families of children with special needs and advocates to help special needs students to maximize their capabilities and to succeed in school and life.

Mr. Meltzer gained expertise in special education law and the practices of the Office of Administrative Law while clerking in the New Jersey Attorney General’s office. He prosecuted nearly 20 trials as a Certified Legal Intern in the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office.

The attorney holds degrees from Drexel University’s Thomas R. Kline School of Law and the University of Delaware, and is a member of the bars of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the District of New Jersey.

Schedule Your FREE Lifestyle Lunch TODAY!

Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ autism to reserve a seat at this free program. Workshop registrants are eligible to receive professional development certificates.

The Autism Resources Fair is sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation. Registration is not required to attend this free, five-hour event.

For more information, visit the Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, call 732-349-6200, or keep up with new details online through the OCL Autism Resources Center.

Donovan Catholic’s Mark Deppen

Named State Coach Of e Year

TOMS RIVER – The National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA) is proud to announce that Coach Mark Deppen of Donovan Catholic High School has been named the 2024 New Jersey State Coach of the Year.

This award is given annually to a High School Strength and Conditioning Coach in recognition of their coaching achievements and passion for the profession. Coach Mark Deppen was selected from among the top coaches across the state and will receive an award certificate and recognition at the NHSSCA National Conference in Texas on June 20. A list of previous winners can be found at nhssca.us/awards.

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.

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)

Boat Slip For Rent - In private residence in Brick. Asking $950 for the season. Call 732-477-3053 or 732-492-3428.

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

CASH,

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwork all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (10)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs,

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)

Buying - World War I & II Swords, Bayonets, Daggers, Helmets, Hats, Medals, Marine, Uniforms, Flags, etc. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: lenny1944x@gmail.com. (19)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (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)

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)

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

(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 (training provided) and PT Laborer - Borough of Ocean Gate. Apply: Municipal Building or download application.801

Ocean Gate Ave. Ocean Gate, NJ 08740. c/o Clerk. (16)

Attention Hairstylists - Looking for a change? Preferably with a following. Good commission in Toms River. Shampoo, assistant, license, and experience. Call Tina 732-904-0014. (t/n)

Services

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONS - All Types Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Doors • Windows • Bathroom And Kitchen Upgrades

• Finished Basements • Ceramic Tile • Laminate Flooring • Decks • Vinyl Railings • Masonry • Painting

• More. Licensed Insured. Advanced Building 609-384-9030. (18)

Experienced, Affordable, Compassionate - 24/7 private Caregiver/Companion is available for your Elderly loved ones: Help w/ personal hygiene, med reminders, meal preps, errands, laundry, housekeeping. 732-867-6686. (16)

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (16)

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. (16)

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

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)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. 732-3304189, 848-287-3944. (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)

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)

You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows:

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

Total = $

5.

MAIL TO: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

Credit

6.

Wallpaper and Bordering - Hanging and removal of old. No job too big or small. Great references. Call Angela 609-290-9702. (17)

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)

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across

1 Symbol in the center of Cameroon’s flag

5 Sentence server

11 Retro-hip beers, for short

15 Quaint sigh

16 “Mad About You” co-star

17 Baseball analyst Hershiser

18 Nana who deciphers coded messages?

20 Finger food, in Zaragoza

21 Colleague of Amy and Elena

22 Novelist Jaffe

23 Showbiz grand slam

24 Skirmish between rival hives?

28 Used a rocker

29 Black Sea resort

30 Functions

34 ESPNU topic

37 Boot camp barker

40 Serious business, and a hint to four answers in this puzzle

44 “The Masked Dancer” panelist Paula

45 Serious locks

46 Name in a Salinger title

47 The planets, e.g.

50 Masked caller

52 Horses now tame enough to ride?

58 Smack

59 Evian et Perrier

60 Like some Windows errors

62 Best Picture Oscar winner directed by Si‰n Heder

63 Speck of dust atop the Matterhorn?

66 Big name in skin care

67 Coffee cup insulator

68 Consequently

69 Snafu

70 Shadow canvas

71 Org. scheme

Down

1 Gives a little

2 Pulsate strongly

3 Maker of the first refrigerator with a dryerase door

4 Mail payment

5 Like some vbs.

6 PBS benefactor

7 Smaller than small

8 Request from

9 Smaller than small

10 Collected goofs

11 Sovereign

12 Self-promoters

13 Bank actions, briefly

14 Crate piece

19 Pets who may squeeze into shoeboxes

25 Lana of Smallville

26 Mark for good

27 “Casablanca” role

30 Telemundo article

31 Blubber

32 Cadillacs manufac-

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tured for 50 years

33 They often hang around kitchens

35 Point

36 Santa __ winds

38 Bit of finery

39 Palindrome in stanzas

41 Sephora rival

42 Veld grazers

43 __ pad

48 Relaxed

49 Pickup truck with four rear wheels

51 “Hah, right!”

52 Mulled wine spice

53 Karachi currency

54 Run out

55 Heckles

56 Like wool, for many

57 Lore

58 Grifter’s game

61 Temporarily provided

64 Prefix for the birds?

65 Rare color?

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

ARIES (March 21-April 19): There’s always another tomorrow and it’s important that you prepare for it. Being a bit more careful now can offer you so many more options in the long run. Let existing resources help you do the heavy lifting.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : You shouldn’t need to defend yourself or your money-making efforts. You might have a vision and the foresight to know what needs to be done. Let other people blow their timing – you know how to leverage that.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Don’t underestimate your contributions. You may think that making friends and helping at community events means you are only filling in time. Your efforts touch hearts, have the courage to reach high and go far.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A call for help can give you a chance to apply practical skills. A loved one or partner could give you some sound business or career advice, take notes and use this new knowledge where it can do some good.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Find or create a peaceful space where you can reflect and process in silence. This could be a good time to take an interest in a healthier lifestyle. Consider what could use improvement and implement better self-care.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Get involved with an activity or hobby that can be truly satisfying on a personal level. You may feel a time crunch because of outside pressures but try to make time for things that make your soul happy.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Things don’t always improve in a straight line. There can be hiccups, plot twists, and cliffhangers before you see real, sustained upward movement. You have to be persistent with your creation to reap the benefits.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Enjoy relaxing with creative ideas, but being inspired can build something, too. You may believe you are spinning your wheels, but once you gain traction those wheels can help you travel somewhere worthwhile.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Love at first sight is usually projection at first sight. And it doesn’t have to be love, projection happens in all parts of life. It can get awkward as fantasy projections dissolve. Keep your eyes open for the real-real.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The time may be ripe to reevaluate your financial situation and focus more on, or tweak, money-making activities. You might be wiser than usual about the ways of the world so remain alert for opportunities to expand.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) : Your passions could be stirred. Prepare to set the wheels in motion so that you can accomplish something near and dear to your heart. Once you resolve to conquer the heights the universe can kick in to help you.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Be your unique, authentic self and you’ll attract your tribe. Instead of conformity, think about the things that you need, you value, and you are comfortable with. Partners and friends should be able to meet you there.

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