2024-05-04 - The Southern Ocean Times

Piney Author Fights Stereotypes, Shares Rich Local History

By Stephanie Faughnan PINE BARRENS –

William “Bill” Lewis, 50, served as a Marine, studied hard at night to earn a degree with top honors, and works for the federal government.

On top of all that, he’s authored four books, produced a documentary film, and delivered guest lectures on several occasions.

Lewis also just happens to be a third-generation Piney, a fact that might strike some as inconsistent with their image of a people quite proud of their deep-rooted lineage.

The term “Piney” often conjures up images of backwoods stereotypes or folklore characters. Lewis considers the word an unmistakable slur and has made it his mission to reclaim

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

William “Bill” Lewis displays the first of his books – “New Jersey’s Lost Piney Culture.”

the narrative of the Piney identity.

“We know with a stereotype there’s little to no truth,” said Lewis. “We’re just labeling people because they’re different, and we don’t

Daughters Of American Revolution Honor Local Founder

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – The Captain Joshua Huddy Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently rededicated a plaque honoring their organizing regent, Virginia Watson Reeve. The ceremony highlighted her dedication to the organization, her passion for history, and her strong character.

The rededication service was held

at the Ocean County Historical Society Garden, where the plaque was relocated from its original site near Toms River Town Hall. It is engraved with the inscription “Captain Joshua Huddy Chapter DAR Honors Virginia Watson Reeve as Organizing Regent March 8, 1930.”

Reeve’s two grandsons traveled substantial distances to attend the (DAR - See Page 5)

understand them.”

The spark for Lewis’ first book, “New Jersey’s Lost Piney Culture,” ignited during a seemingly ordinary encounter. An avid birder, Lewis was hik-

ing in Florida when he met a couple from Indiana. The gentleman, sporting a Wharton State Forest hat, asked Lewis if he’d ever heard of the (Author - See Page 4)

Students Prep For Prom With ‘Arrive Alive’ Experience

they received after a ride in the simulator.

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT – Before Barnegat High School juniors hit the prom dance floor, they had the chance to make a critical pit stop at an “Arrive Alive” program. While picking the perfect prom outfit is a priority, this year’s pre-prom prep went beyond the traditional glitz and glamour. School officials and the Barnegat Police Department teamed up to help prepare the junior prom goers for a safe and memorable night. All 11th-grade physical education classes were allowed to engage with a distracted driving simulator provided by UNITE’s Arrive Alive Tour. Under the guidance of Jalen Burress, a program representative who resonated with the students, they embarked on a virtual journey behind the wheel.

“Frank (BHS Vice Principal) Pannullo actually found the organization, and we reached out to them,” said Barnegat Police Officer Brian Weber, the high school’s School Resource Officer. “We set this up specifically for junior students as we do Project Crash for the seniors. We’re trying to hit the kids up a little bit earlier so they know the consequences that could come from these types of situations.”

The simulator, resembling a police car, allowed the students to experience the challenges of driving under the influence or while distracted by a cell phone. With sensors monitoring their every move and VR headsets enveloping their vision, they navigated through simulated scenarios filled with danger. Classmates watched the situations unfold on a monitor set up outside the car.

(Students - See Page 6)

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Barnegat High School juniors Riley Fitzpatrick and Venorah Speller show the “tickets”

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan DAR member Carol Mahler reads the story of Joshua Huddy authored by Virginia Watson Reeve as current Regent Virginia “Ginny” Haines looks on.

Author:

Continued From Page 1 Pine Barrens.

Lewis explained that he was from the Pine Barrens and was surprised to hear the couple had just visited the area. They became interested in it after reading “The Pine Barrens,” a book written by John McPhee in 1967, a staff writer for The New Yorker.

“I’d never read the book, but my curiosity was piqued, and I picked up a copy,” said Lewis. “In my opinion, it’s what saved the Pinelands. It galvanized the environmental movement and made it a national preserve along with Governor Byrne.”

While some of the book’s details rang familiar, others hit Lewis to his core. McPhee said the classic example of a Piney was someone who pulled pinecones and red sphagnum moss. Lewis recalled his close family members doing the same and came up with the conclusion that his family were Pineys.

“And then he said that Pineys was a derogatory word,” Lewis related. “And referred to backward people and incestual and immoral people.”

Lewis knew at the point that it was time for someone who lived the Piney culture to set the record straight.

The History Of The Pineys

In “New Jersey’s Lost Piney Culture,” Lewis identifies ten types of Pineys – all of whom have enjoyed the vast land known as the Pine Barrens. His research revealed that the Pine Barrens comprises 1.1 million acres in 56 municipalities.

As far as Lewis is concerned, one doesn’t

have to be from the Pine Barrens to earn the Piney distinction. He gave the example of a woman who moved from Staten Island as worthy of being called a Piney – because of her sheer love for the land.

“I am a different Piney than my grandfather was,” Lewis added. “He couldn’t read or write.”

“I’m college educated, but that doesn’t mean I’m smarter than he was,” continued Lewis. “He had a different knowledge set than I do.”

The origins of the term “Piney” trace back to the Pine Barrens, where early inhabitants forged a way of life deeply intertwined with its beautiful landscape. For generations, Pineys fostered a spirit of self-reliance and community - living off government-owned land.

Lewis described his grandfather’s generation as pioneers and painted a picture of a community adapting to the seasons and opportunities available to them.

“Their routines shifted throughout the year. They’d pick blueberries in the summer and participate in the cranberry harvest come fall – both staples of Piney history,” said Lewis. But that wasn’t all. Year-round, they’d collect dry flowers, a tradition that stretched all the way down to Tuckerton.

Many of the people Lewis interviewed for his book recalled meticulously collecting “pine balls,” as they were called, specifically from pygmy pines. Pinecones and dried flowers served a decorative purpose, fueling a thriving industry until its decline in the 1990s.

Plastic flowers took the place of dried natural blooms – and pinecones were suddenly imported from overseas.

Lewis reminisced about his childhood and recalled the excitement of knowing there was always something to harvest and make some money. He credited his strong work ethic to the days he and his little sister bundled up to collect pine balls in Warren Grove. People dressed in their Sunday finest stared at them when they stopped in a diner to warm up and get special treats.

“I consider Pineys to be farmers without owning the land,” explained Lewis. “They were farming with different types of plants in the Pine Barrens.”

However, a shift came with the establishment of the Pinelands National Reserve. Public lands had always been associated with rules against removing anything from them. What had been somewhat lax enforcement changed. What was once considered sustainable harvesting – collecting pinecones and participating in the dry flower trade – was absolutely against the rules.

Authorities cracked down, impounding vehicles and issuing fines. A way of life passed down through generations became an unexpected source of conflict.

Meanwhile, the Pineys’ struggle with misconceptions dates far back in history. In the early 20th century, acting New Jersey Governor James F. Fielder ran for office advocating for the segregation and sterilization of Pineys. His stance was based on a flawed eugenics study conducted by Dr. Henry Goddard.

“It was his findings with a young Piney girl that really started the eugenics movement,” said Lewis. “It was the idea that she was feebleminded, and it was something that was bred and went up and down the family tree.”

More On The Pine Barrens

A world traveler who truly feels there’s no place like home, Lewis speaks passionately about the Pine Barrens. He’s an expert on the region’s flora, the hidden paths leading to tranquility, and even its local legends. His latest book, “South Jersey Legends & Lore,” explores both the well-known Jersey Devil and lesser-known stories like John Bacon’s tale, highlighting the Pine Barrens’ role in the American Revolution.

For younger audiences, Lewis crafted “Adventure With Piney Joe,” which takes children on a journey blending history with folklore, fostering an appreciation for the area’s people and rich heritage. Lewis has also designed a coloring book called “Piney Everlasting, Volume 1.”

The documentary, “The Reluctant Piney,” offers a glimpse into the lives of other Piney community members, further enriching the understanding of this resilient group.

“I call them reluctant because they’re reluctant to leave the woods,” Lewis explained. “They’re reluctant to get a 40-hour workweek – reluctant to have a boss.”

“They were all their own individual bosses,” continued Lewis. “Whatever they did in the woods that day, that’s the amount of money they would come home with. Progress kept coming along and pushing them out of the woods.”

Lewis’s books are available on Amazon. For those interested in learning more, his Facebook page, Piney Tribe, boasts over 11,000 followers and offers daily content about the Pine Barrens and its people.

DAR:

Continued From Page 1 ceremony. David Younkers and his wife Karen made the trip from Richmond, Virginia. Robert “Mill” Younkers and his wife Lydia Ann came from Denver, Colorado, and were pleasantly surprised when their son and daughter-in-law also flew in from Denver for the occasion.

The impetus for the plaque’s relocation came from Mill and Karen’s last trip to Toms River. Mill said they would stop by to visit the plaque dedicated to his grandmother as part of their ritual during their visits. When he noticed the plaque was loose, he contacted township authorities, who told him it was not their responsibility – even though it was on township property. Mill contacted the local DAR, who took charge, retrieved the plaque, cleaned it up, and planted it in the historical society garden, where it was rededicated to her memory.

Reeve, a descendant of Revolutionary War soldier Col. Theodore Sedgwick, was instrumental in establishing the Captain Joshua Huddy Chapter in 1930. She was also a founding Ocean County Historical Society member and a prolific writer on numerous topics.

During the ceremony led by the chapter’s current Regent, Virginia “Ginny” Haines, speakers emphasized Reeve’s role in preserving local history, particularly her

efforts to ensure Captain Joshua Huddy, a local hero, received proper recognition.

“She wrote in 1950 that the Chapter name Captain Joshua Huddy was most fitting,” added DAR member Diane Varsa. “His downward defense of the blockhouse and saltworks of Toms River had never been properly credited.”

DAR member Carol Mahler, dressed in period-appropriate attire, presented the historical account of Joshua Huddy authored by Virginia Watson Reeve.

A Life Of Accomplishments

Virginia Reeve was married to Reuben H. Reeve and had three children, who all enjoyed vacationing in Ocean Gate during the summer months.

In a time when women were not all in the workforce, Reeve was a secretary to the founder of Lederle Laboratories, which was acquired by Wyeth, which Pfi zer subsequently acquired. She didn’t let the fact that she was employed stop her from becoming active in things that mattered to her.

Reeve was one of the founding members of the DAR in her hometown in Summit, which was called the Beacon Fire Chapter.

A one-time staff member of the Summit Herald, Reeve had scrapbooks fi lled with clippings of letters she wrote to various newspapers.

“She used to write letters to The New York Times, The Saturday Evening Post, and the Reader’s Digest,” Mill said of his maternal grandmother. “If she agreed with

something, she would compliment them, commend them. And if she was opposed to anyone, well, you better watch out because you became scorched earth. She would let you know in a hurry.”

By 1926, the Reeves decided their love for the Jersey shore warranted a move to Toms River. Within four years, Reeve became the organizing regent of the Ocean County Chapter of the DAR.

“She was defi nitely not a wallflower,” Mill said of his grandmother. “She was a leader, probably the most patriotic person I ever knew. And she was very, very proud of her genealogy.”

Reeve ‘s activism and advocacy were evident throughout her life, whether through her prolific letter-writing or involvement in community organizations. Her commitment to causes she believed in and her welcoming demeanor were said to have left an indelible impression on all who knew her.

Reeve ‘s impact resonated not only through her own accomplishments but also through her children, who followed in her footsteps of service and leadership. Her son Fred served in the Coast Guard and later established a successful business. Her daughter, Dorothy “Dot” Reeve, blazed trails as a lieutenant commander in the Navy and became Ocean County’s fi rst female attorney. She was also the first woman to head a local American Legion Post.

Her daughter, Evelyn, Mill and David’s

mother married Millard James Younker, and the couple started the Toms River Venetian Blind Service in 1947 and expanded to own four stores.

“My grandfather died in 1949,” shared Mill. “I’m sure that was a tough time for her. She was still very active in everything and became even more active at that time.” Mill was 22 when his grandmother died on December 7, 1965, and had fond memories of his visits with her. Mill marveled at the significance of the date of his grandmother’s death as she kept newspaper clippings daily during World War II.

“She kept them in a chest that her husband - my grandfather - made,” Mill added. “I have that chest.”

Part of Reeve’s legacy continues to live on in the Waretown Branch of the Ocean County Library system. She had left sufficient funds to build the library in that part of the county.

About The DAR

Members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) must be able to trace their lineage to ancestors who actively supported the Revolutionary War effort. This includes individuals who served in the Continental Army or state militia, contributed to the funding of the armies through supply taxes, or held positions as public officials during the pivotal period of American history.

The Captain Joshua Huddy Chapter of the DAR currently has 95 members.

Students:

Continued From Page 1

Students took turns strapping on the VR headsets and getting behind the wheel. As they did so, the atmosphere shifted from excitement to a palpable sense of apprehension. Some could be heard nervously exclaiming as they struggled to maintain control, while others visibly tensed in anticipation of the inevitable crash.

Burress, acting as both guide and enforcer, issued “tickets” to those who veered off course, emphasizing the seriousness of their actions.

For BHS juniors Riley Fitzpatrick and Venorah Speller, the experience was eye-opening. Both found themselves on the receiving end of virtual tickets, their simulated blood alcohol levels exceeding legal limits.

As they compared their tickets, the two young women learned that they’d been guilty of different infractions although their simulated blood alcohol levels were both marked the same.

“I could tell what it was like to be impaired,” said Riley, who got her driver’s license in September. “I just couldn’t focus.”

Venorah, who has a learner’s permit, agreed that the experience offered a critical lesson. Both Riley and Venorah agreed it was a good way of teaching them not to drink and drive.

The proactive approach to student safety isn’t new for Barnegat High School. In fact, for the second year running, the district will host Project Crash for the senior class later in the month. While the messaging is similar – reminding students of the dangers of impaired driving – Project Crash utilizes a live-action accident simulation, offering a different kind of impactful experience.

“We want to provide students with a deeper understanding of the devastating consequences of distracted and impaired driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances and how it affects their ability to operate a vehicle,” said Superintendent Dr. Brian Latwis. “These initiatives show them that they have a responsibility and duty to themselves and the community to make safe decisions as new drivers.

“As mentors, we want them to not only leave with the understanding and motivation to make responsible choices for their own safety, but the willingness to intervene when they observe peers attempting to drive impaired as well,” he said.

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

“Protect American Widows Act” Extends Tax Break ree Years

From The Desk Of Congressman

Jefferson

Van Drew

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jefferson Van Drew (R-2 nd ) introduced the Protect American Widows Act to

help alleviate the financial burden of grieving widows. Currently, widows are only able to file their taxes as a surviving spouse for two years. This bill would extend that period of time to five years, providing an extended lifeline to those facing some of their hardest times.

“This expansion of fi nancial relief can

make all the difference to those trying to navigate the loss of their loved one,” said Congressman Van Drew. “Our fellow Americans deserve empathy and compassion, and two years is just not enough time to fi nancially recover from such a deep loss. By extending the timeline of this relief, we are easing the fi nancial pressure of these grieving spouses and lifting some of the weight off their shoulders.”

Background:

• This bill would amend the Internal

Revenue Code to allow widowed spouses to fi le as a surviving spouse, which would qualify them to utilize the married fi ling jointly tax rate, for five taxable years as opposed to the current two-year limit.

• This bill would apply to returns fi led for taxable years following December 31st, 2023.

• This bill was drafted in coordination with a group of widows from South Jersey who came to the Congressman with this proposal.

Legislation Would Address Plastic Production Crisis

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), along with U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), reintroduced the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act, legislation that addresses the plastic production crisis that is fueling climate change and perpetuating environmental injustice. With plastic production and consumption on track to double in the next decade, the resulting greenhouse gas emissions threaten to put our climate goals further out of reach, while expanded plastic production will drive more pollution in environmental justice communities around the United States. Petrochemical, plastic production, and waste incineration facilities, which are disproportionately located in or near Black, Brown, and low-income communities, release harmful air and water pollution that cause increased incidences of asthma, cancers, endocrine disruption, development disorders, and heart disease. Transitioning off of fossil fuels only to replace that demand with more fossil-based plastic production is not a sustainable solution, and

will continue to perpetuate existing climate and environmental justice impacts.

The Protecting Communities from Plastics Act would directly tackle the plastic pollution crisis by cracking down on the plastic production process, building on key provisions from the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act to address the harmful environmental justice impacts of this growing sector, and moving our economy away from an overreliance on single-use plastic.

It would establish stricter rules for petrochemical plants to safeguard the health of American communities and reduce greenhouse gas emissions fueling the climate crisis.

Additionally, it would begin to shift the U.S. economy away from its dependence on certain single-use plastics, creating new nationwide targets for plastic source reduction and reuse in the packaging and food service sectors. These targets are paired with federal incentives to spur expansion of reusable and refillable systems, with an emphasis on ensuring benefits are realized in environmental justice communities.

“The plastic pollution crisis is an urgent threat to our public and environmental health. Communities living near plastics facilities often suffer from exposure to

harmful pollutants and increased long-term health complications,” said Senator Booker.

“As we continue to tackle climate change and transition to a clean energy economy, fossil-based plastic production undermines our efforts to reduce our carbon emissions and address environmental injustice. This legislation will create nationwide targets for single-use plastic source reduction and pause the permitting of new and expanded plastics facilities while the EPA makes much-needed regulatory updates.”

“When it comes to reducing waste, we are taught the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. However, the reality for plastics is really the three Bs: buried, burned, or borne out to sea - which means dangerous chemicals are seeping into our soil, air, and water. This is a public health emergency for Americans everywhere, and disproportionately impacts communities of color and low-wealth communities,” said Senator Merkley, who serves as the Chair of the Environment and Public

Works subcommittee overseeing environmental justice and chemical safety. “With plastic particles ending up on the snowcaps of the Arctic and inside our own bloodstreams, it’s clear we need strong legislation like the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act to get the plastics crisis under control. I will continue to work alongside my colleagues to get these solutions signed into law.”

“Plastic production is toxic at every stage beginning with the extraction of fossil fuels, continuing by polluting the air and water of communities near production facilities, poisoning our very bodies and ultimately harming our ocean upon which all life depends. We applaud the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act for seeking to stop this egregious harm and providing a much-needed course correction toward the cleaner, healthier and more sensible future we all deserve,” said Jennifer Savage, Plastic Pollution Initiative Senior Manager, Surfrider Foundation.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

Beloved Popcorn Park Zoo Lion Passes Away

By Alyssa Riccardi FORKED RIVER

– After calling Popcorn

Park Zoo its home for 10 years, the beloved lion Simba has sadly passed away.

Simba fi rst arrived to the zoo from Alabama in 2014. Along with three other big cats, he came to the zoo after its former owner fell ill and could no longer care for them.

us. Simba’s roar every morning meant something special to all of us and could be heard for miles around. It meant so much to us to know we were helping him and that he was giving us that love back - which he did tenfold,” said John Bergmann, Executive Director of Popcorn Park.

Simba lived a very long and full life, and had left a lasting legacy at Popcorn Park.

GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is an umbrella term for a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, and, if left untreated, will lead to vision loss. The damage is often caused by increased pressure in the eye and is one of the leading causes of blindness. Glaucoma can occur at any age but is more common in older individuals. Many people don’t even realize they have glaucoma until it reaches an advanced stage because the vision change is so gradual. Symptoms will vary depending on the type of glaucoma. For example, open-angle glaucoma results in tunnel vision and patchy blind spots. Acute angle-closure glaucoma signs include severe headaches, nausea and vomiting, eye redness, and blurred vision. Because vision loss due to glaucoma can’t be recovered, it’s important to have regular eye exams that include measurements of your eye pressure so a diagnosis can be made in its early stages and treated appropriately. If glaucoma is recognized early, vision loss can be slowed or prevented. If you have the condition, you’ll generally need treatment for the rest of your life. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. For those with symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma, it’s crucial to see an ophthalmologist immediately.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622

BRICK (732) 477-6981

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020 www.oceancountyeye.com

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

President & Publisher Stew Swann

News Editor Chris Lundy

Production Manager

Allison Gradzki

Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff

Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller

Graphic Artist Adriana Miranda

Distribution Manager Laura Hoban

Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano

Layout Designer Julia Wilkens

Park employees said Simba arrived severely underweight, but was able to slowly gain weight and regained his health.

“Simba was very personable and when we’d walk by, he’d always get up to greet

Experience Elvis’s

“Though we miss him dearly, we are honored to have provided him with a new life and sanctuary for 10 wonderful years,” Popcorn Park Animal Refuge said in a statement.

Skyrocket To Stardom

LACEY – Few entertainers can rival Elvis Presley’s three-year meteoric rise from a raw, rowdy rocker to a global superstar. Watch as Elvis tribute performer Ruben Castillo brings this remarkable era to life in “Elvistory: The King of Rock & Roll 1956-1959” at the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch, 2 p.m. May 18.

Ruben will bring the social and political context of the time to his presentation which will highlight Elvis’s fi lms Loving You, Jailhouse Rock and Kid Creole.

Elvis took America by storm, snaring a prized spot on Ed Sullivan’s television show, appearing on numerous other variety programs, and diving headlong into film acting.

As he captivated audiences, the world

changed. America emerged from its “Leave It to Beaver” age to face crises such as the rise of communism in Cuba and simmering racial tensions in Southern states that neared the boiling point.

Register at tinyurl.com/OclLaceyElvis for this free program for all ages, sponsored by the Friends of the Lacey Library.

The Friends are volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraising, and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Applications are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at www. theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends.

For more information, stop by the OCL Lacey Branch, 10 East Lacey Road, Forked River, call 609-693-8566, or visit theocean countylibrary.org/events.

St. Francis Community Center Second Annual Golf Outing

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – St. Francis Community Center Second Annual Golf Outing will be on May 6 at the LBI National Golf & Resort, Little Egg Harbor Township. Join for a spectacular day of golf, food and contests as we raise money for St. Francis Community Center. There are lots of prizes, from closest to the pin to longest drives for both men and women. There are four par 3 holes- hit a hole in one and win a $5,000 cash prize!

For more information, visit: events.golfstatus. com/event/2024-st-francis-community-center-golf-outing/details/registration-details.

1st Annual Java And Jazz Night

BARNEGAT – Come out and join the Barnegat High School Music Department as they host the 1st Annual Java and Jazz Night on May 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Barnegat High

School Media Center.

Tickets are $15 for adults; $10 for students. Any questions, contact Mr. McGrath at dmcgrath@barnegatschools.com.

Waretown Food Truck & Music Festival

WARETOWN – The Waretown Food Truck & Music Festival will be on June 22 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Waretown Elemen-

tary School, 64 Railroad Avenue. Enjoy gourmet food trucks, adults beverage garden, live music and kids activities.

Ship Bo om Annual Town Wide Yard Sale

SHIP BOTTOM – Ship Bottom Annual

Town Wide Yard Sale will be on May 25, 26, & 27. Register your Ship Bottom ad-

dress (for free) with the Municipal Clerk’s Office at 609-494-2171 ext. 1616 or email kdeboer@shipbottom.org.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Volunteers Participate In Community Clean Up

Girl Scouts Visit Police Department

Photo courtesy Stafford Township

Photo courtesy Ocean Township Police Department

WARETOWN – Ptl. Russell Moller had the pleasure

Daisy Girl Scout Troop around Ocean Township Police Department headquarters.

young Daisy Girl Scouts came to the Police Department

authority” badge. The tour ended with

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Local Pets Up For Adoption

LACEY – The Associated Humane Society shelter at the Popcorn Park Zoo has pets available for adoption.

Meet George Cat-Stanza! He’s about 5-1/2 years old and was turned in by a good person that took him in after his original family abandoned him in October, 2023. George is a big boy, which has caused him some arthritis and a bum knee. He receives a monthly injection for this. He is currently in the foster care of one of our cat caretakers and we’ve learned so much about him! George prefers women to men (of course!) and he’s very cuddly and affectionate with

women. He loves biscuit-making and especially loves chasing the laser pointer! He gets along fi ne with other cats but he can be a bit dominant, so a non-threatening feline friend is best. He’d also prefer a home with no young kids due to getting a little overstimulated at times. He loves gazing out the window or door at the world going by, and he would just love a relaxing, commotion-free home. He hopes you’ll give him a chance!

Call 609-693-1900, visit ahscares.org/ forked-river-adoptables or email: office@ ahsppz.org for an adoption application.

Tuckerton Wireless Tower Program

TUCKERTON – On May 11, the Tuckerton Historical Society will present “WSC Calling.” Jeffrey Brown will speak on The Tuckerton Wireless Tower. The presentation will be held at Gif-

fordtown Schoolhouse Museum, 35 Leitz Boulevard in West Tuckerton. Reservations are recommended; call 856-630-8899) and a $5 donation is appreciated.

Photo courtesy AHS

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Garden Club Members Honor Resident

LACEY – Members of the Lacey Township Garden Club, Sue Labor, Judy Schermerhorn, Margaret Gaskill (not in photo) and Scott from The Lacey Township Public Works honored William Trainor by cleaning up his memorial on Lacey Road.

The Lacey Township Public Works provided the mulch and awesome help of Scott along with the Lacey Township Garden Club to put down the mulch and remove the tattered American flags. They will replace the flags and also replace the broken solar light.

First Responders Day At e Sta ord Library

STAFFORD – Meet the local people who protect us and learn about the equipment they use during First Responders Day at the Ocean County Library Stafford Branch, 10 a.m. May 18. Everyone will gather in the Library parking lot where a fire truck, EMS vehicle, and police cruiser will be on display.

Community Policing Officer Anthony Vincent will demonstrate features of police vehicles and tools that are used

in police work. Youngsters will also have a chance to meet firefighters and emergency medical technicians and get a close look at their vehicles. No registration is required for this free program, open to all ages. First Responders Day is weather permitting. No rain date is scheduled.

For more information, stop by the OCL Stafford Branch, 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin, visit theoceancounty library.org/events, or call 609-597-3381.

Mother’s Day Plant Sale

SURF CITY – The Surf City Women’s Auxiliary will be hosting a Mother’s Day Plant Sale on May 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

at the Surf City Firehouse, 713 Long Beach Boulevard, Surf City. Proceeds to benefit the Surf City Volunteer Fire Co. and EMS.

Town-Wide Yard Sale

STAFFORD – Time to clean out those closets, empty the attic and declutter the basement! Stafford Township’s town wide

yard sale will be on May 4 and 5 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Questions? Call 609-597-1000 ext. 8583.

Photo courtesy Lacey Township Garden Club

Free Comic Book Day Event

for free photos with your phone or camera. Writer, artist and author J.M. DeSantis will be in attendance to meet with artists and review their art portfolios. His work will be on display and available for sale.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – A Free Comic Book Day event will be held on May 4 from 12 to 4 p.m. at the Little Egg Harbor Senior Center, 641 Radio Road, Little Egg Harbor. This event will be a grand gathering of local geeks, nerds, comic book fans, cosplayers and anyone who loves to have fun. Free Comic Book Day has free comics and offers the public a chance to interact with professional cosplayers, creators and entertainers for plenty of free photos and giveaways, while supplies last. FCBD will be held Rain or Shine.

Professional cosplayers scheduled to appear include Peter Weiss as Red Hood, Jorge Caballero as Hell Bat, Secret Garden Cosplay as Princess Zelda and Alfonzo Todd as the steampunk time traveling DJ known as Dr. Ozno. Cosplayers will have limited edition posters to give away and will be available

The Gizmo Brothers will bring die-cast racing to Free Comic Book Day with themed races and free giveaways every fifteen minutes.

Bear Man Comic and Toys will be the exclusive vendor at the event bringing a wide variety of collectibles including books, trading cards, toys and comic books. Join in the People’s Choice Cosplay Contest by having your photo taken and posted on the event Facebook page for judging. Free parking is available in the Municipal building parking lot then follow the path through the enchanted woods. The event will be held rain or shine. Local businesses are invited to sponsor the event and be a part of this first Free Comic Book Day. Call Mark at 609277-6310 for more information.

Blessing Of e Bikes & Poker Run

MANAHAWKIN – Beach Haven Moose will be hosting their Blessing Of The Bikes & Poker Run on May 19 at 120 Route 72 West, Manahawkin.

Live music by Slap Happy. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. Breakfast sandwiches and coffee available for purchase. Bike Blessing at 11 a.m. Poker Run kick stands up 11:30 a.m. Four stops: Billy Boys, Village Pub, Lowerbank Tavern and Black Dog. Final Card – Beach Haven Moose.

Donation of $25 includes domestic draft beer, burgers, dogs, chicken and salads from 2 to 6 p.m. (or until they run out).

For more information, contact Angelo at 609-457-0491.

High School Athletic Trainer Named Trainer Of e Year

MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations, Southern Regional Head Athletic Trainer Nick Scaramazza, on being named the 2023-2024 Jersey Shore Interscholastic Wrestling Association Athletic Trainer of the Year. Well deserved. Thank you for all that you do for Southern!

Lacey Seaport Society

LACEY – The Radio Controlled Model Boat Club runs their boats spring, summer and fall in Deerhead Lake. They host various events each year and also have dates for open running. If you are interested in more information regarding the club contact Don Herman at 609-410-9902. Spring Events: May 5, 19.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Scout Earns Eagle Rank

BARNEGAT – Justin Zuccarello of Troop 20, Toms River, completed his Eagle Scout project at Cloverdale Farm County Park in Barnegat, in November 2023. He built and installed three wood duck nesting boxes at the park. Justin was thankful for the support from many people including the members of Troop 20, family, friends and people from his church. He received a generous donation of material from All County Exteriors in Lakewood, which made this project possible. Justin would also like to thank the Cloverdale County Park employees for their guidance throughout his project.

Justin wants to be an architect or builder for his future career which is why he wanted to build something for his Eagle Scout project. His love of nature and especially ducks made this project very special and fulfilling. Justin looks forward to seeing when the wood ducks will start use these boxes.

Justin earned his Eagle Scout rank on April 11, 2024. Congratulations Justin, job well done!

The Southern Ocean Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

Photo courtesy Ocean County Parks & Recreation

Photo courtesy Deborah Heart and Lung Center

BROWNS MILLS – The Deborah Hospital Foundation received a $4 Million gift from the estate of Joan Dembeck Zdanowicz. A plaque was unveiled on the Browns Mills campus to dedicate the newly named Joan Dembeck Zdanowicz Pediatric Cardiology Department.

Ms. Zdanowicz, as primary caregiver for her parents, was the sole beneficiary of their estate, which included a Charitable Remainder Trust established by her mother, Josephine Dembeck, a past volunteer member of a Deborah chapter. Joan Dembeck

Zdanowicz’s fiscal responsibility of the Trust, and her own estate made this generational multi-million dollar gift possible. This gift honors the philanthropic legacy of Josephine Dembeck and Joan Dembeck Zdanowicz while celebrating their commitment to Deborah’s youngest patients. It marks a significant milestone in the hospital’s progression to incorporate advanced diagnostic equipment, treatments and techniques to help patients with congenital or acquired heart conditions live long and healthy lives.

Field Hockey Player Commits To College

Photo courtesy Southern Regional

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Residents Donate Toys For Cleaner Community

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Photo courtesy Stafford Township

STAFFORD

Second Life Toy Drive was a huge success! Mayor Henken and the Township Council would like to thank the Stafford Township Green Team for organizing such a wonderful event.

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Start Wearing Hearing Aids Earlier In Life!

Neurodegenerative dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease are a major health problem in the aging worldwide population. The number of people living with dementia is projected to increase 57% in the next two decades. This rising global prevalence, combined with the lack of effective drugs, has made the prevalence of dementia a public health concern.

A recent study showed that intervention on risk factors not including hypertension might prevent 35% of dementia cases and that the strongest midlife risk factor for dementia is hearing impairment. Because hearing impairment is prevalent, alleviating it might delay the point older adults cross the critical threshold of impairment into dementia. In fact, the prevalence of hearing impairment increases to 90% of individuals age 85 years or older.

Thus, the timing of beginning hearing aid use is crucial in the success of hearing aids as an intervention in old age. It is well documented that most folks will procrastinate at least 7-10 years before they even get a hearing test. Yet, we have yearly eye exams, dental checks, and routine screenings for skin cancer. This is all preventive medicine. It is my professional opinion that once you turn 50 years of age, you should have a complete hearing evaluation. Early identification of hearing impairment coupled with consistent hearing aid use will improve cognitive function and potentially delay the onset of cognitive decline.

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer your questions about important hearing care issues. Please feel free to contact Dr. Izzy at 732-451-3962 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!

Volunteers Needed At New Jersey Blood Services

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers.

The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of the team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/ or at the refreshment area. No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform tasks as

needed and must provide proof of COVID Vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors. For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To apply online as a blood drive volunteer, go to: volgistics.com/ appform/2127944197.

Sta ord Township EMS Auxiliary Seeking Members

STAFFORD – This month, National Volunteer month, we honor and show appreciation to all of the volunteers in our community, especially our very own members of Stafford Township Emergency Medical Services.

What better way to celebrate than to answer our call for volunteers? The Stafford Township EMS Auxiliary is currently seeking dedicated members to assist in fulfi lling their mission and commitment

to supporting the squad. No experience is required and all are welcome!

Want to learn more and/or apply? You can:

• Visit squad38.com/auxiliary

• Email at stemsaux@squad38.com

• Visit in person! They meet at the Stafford Township EMS building on the fi rst Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. They are located at 365 E Bay Avenue, Manahawkin.

Isidore Kirsh

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Raw Unfiltered Honey Vs. Pasteurized: A Guide For Allergy Sufferers

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Honey, nature’s golden delight, has graced our tables and enriched our diets for centuries. Interestingly, Americans consume about one and a half pounds of honey per person annually!

While honey’s rich flavor and health benefits are widely celebrated, for those with allergies, the choice between raw and pasteurized honey involves more than just taste, it’s about well-being.

When you go shopping to buy honey, you’ll see two choices. So let’s delve into the distinctions between “raw/unfiltered” and “pasteurized” honey to determine which is more suitable for pollen allergy sufferers.

1. Raw and Unfiltered Honey - Raw honey is minimally processed. It is not pasteurized, meaning it isn’t heated at high temperatures, and only lightly filtered, preserving most of its natural nutrients, including pollen, antioxidants, and enzymes. These components are believed to support immune function and might even offer allergy relief to some. However, for people sensitive to pollen, consuming raw honey could pose risks. Although the pollen in raw honey typically differs from the wind-borne pollen that triggers seasonal allergies, it can still provoke reactions in highly-sensitive folks. The benefits of raw honey also include a complex flavor profile that varies with the flowers visited by the bees. It also contains beneficial enzymes.

2. Pasteurized Honey - Pasteurized honey is heated sufficiently to kill yeast cells and remove any crystallization, creating a smoother product. This process significantly reduces the pollen content, making it a safer option if

you consider yourself to be allergic to pollen, or have severe senstivities. It’s just as sweet, and has some health benefits but with a lower risk of causing allergic reactions. The type of flowers that bees pollinate can greatly influence the medicinal properties of honey. For example, Manuka honey from New Zealand is famed for its antimicrobial properties, while North American clover honey is often used for its soothing qualities against coughs and throat irritations. Buckwheat honey, known for its high antioxidant content, is another variety that is dark and rich, commonly used for boosting the immune system and respiratory health.

And then there is agave nectar, a totally different natural sweetener that is right next to the honey section. This is derived from a succulent plant, and it does not contain pollen. Choosing between raw and pasteurized honey (and agave) depends on all these factors. I like all of those better than artificial sweeteners, but that’s just me!

In conclusion, I recommend pasteurized honey for allergy sufferers due to its reduced pollen content, and raw/unfiltered honey for people without pollen sensitivities. The latter offers a richer nutrient profile and a deeper connection to the flora that bees have visited.

Whether used as a sweetener in tea or drizzled on top of yogurt, selecting the right type of honey can help you enjoy its health benefits safely and delightfully. I have a longer version of this article at my website with more sweetener options and more detail. To have it emailed, just sign up for my free weekly newsletter at suzycohen.com.”

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©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).

Police Donate Fishing Supplies To 12-Year-Old Resident

THERAPIES/SERVICES

• Hormone Replacement

• IV Therapies

• Thermascan

• Cryoskin • HOCATT

• Colonics • PEMF

• Salt Room/Halotherapy

• Theta Chamber

• Ozone

• Botox

• Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management

• Peptides

63 Lacey Rd. Unit C • Whiting, NJ 08759 609-978-9002 • www.ICAMNJ.com

STAFFORD – Join in extending a heartfelt thank you to Stafford PBA 297 and Tony’s Bait and Tackle for their generous donation of a fantastic fi shing/crabbing setup for Zack, a brave 12-year-old battling health issues.

courtesy Stafford Police Zack’s enthusiastic support for the police department at township events hasn’t gone unnoticed, and they’re sending their best wishes for a speedy recovery. Here’s to many happy fishing and crabbing adventures ahead!

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Photo

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

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

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

Statistics show that nearly 50 percent of all nursing homes are short staffed. The staff people who do work in these facilities are underpaid, overworked, and all too often overburdened, which in turn leads to elder neglect and abuse.

Even more alarming is the prediction that the problem will only worsen in the near future. More than 91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients. A Health and Human Services Department report found patients in understaffed nursing homes were more likely to suffer from a variety of problems, such as bed sores, malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, pneumonia, and serious blood born infections. It’s a serious concern that will only increase with time, given that the population of people aged 85 or older is expected to

double to 8.9 million by the year 2030. Signs of abuse and neglect may be (but are not limited to) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unexplained injuries, frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse call the trial attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

There’s nothing better than a sunset at the Jersey Shore. Local resident Liam Malley was in the right place at the right time to catch this one recently. Memorial Day weekend is on the way and the weather is getting nicer. Want to see your pic in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Step Up For e Arc Walk & 5K Race

LAKEWOOD – The Arc, Ocean County Chapter will host the 22nd Annual Step Up for The Arc Walk and Inaugural 5K Race on May 18 at ShoreTown Ballpark, home of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, to benefit programs and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Step Up for The Arc is an inclusive community event to raise awareness and acceptance for people with disabilities. The 5K Race will start at 8 a.m., with check-in opening at 7 a.m. timed by Split Second Racing. There is a $30 registration fee to participate in the 5K.

The Walk and Family Fun Day will kickoff at 10 a.m. and include carnival games, arts and crafts, live performances, refreshments, a 1-mile walk, and an after-party lunch catered by Jersey Mike’s Subs. This event is free to attend and online registration is encouraged.

To register for the Step Up for The Arc

Walk and 5K Race please visit arcocean.org. This year’s event hopes to raise $85,000 for The Arc, Ocean County Chapter’s programs and support services providing housing, employment, job training, transportation, recreation, family support, and clinical support services to 1,000 individuals with disabilities.

All participants who donate or fundraise $50 or more will receive this year’s commemorative Step Up for The Arc t-shirt. Donations can be made online directly to event participants or mailed to The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, 393 Mantoloking Road, Brick.

Thank you to our silver event sponsors Be Best You and Gallagher and our bronze sponsor Manasquan Bank. To learn about our sponsorship levels and benefits visit arcocean.org.

For more event details, email development@arcocean.org or call us at 732-9781414.

“Joseph And e Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Auditions

MANAHAWKIN – One of the most enduring shows of all time, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is a reimagining of the story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers and the coat of many colors. Told entirely through song with the help of a main character Narrator, the magical musical is full of catchy songs in a variety of styles, from a parody of

French ballads (“Those Canaan Days”), to country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) and calypso (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.” Join for a colorful summer!

Performance opportunity for rising freshman and above! (Children’s Choir Registration will be posted soon!) Register

for your audition appointment here: book. squareup.com/appointments/8hqdwn6abtykvb/location/B2W1WHQ4D1MV4/services.

Auditions will be on May 11 at Location: Bay Ave Community Center. Auditions begin at 10 a.m., callbacks will immediately follow.

Please prepare an audition cut from the

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

show or in the style of the show (36 bars, or one-ish minute). Bring a headshot and resume if you have one! Rehearsals will take place in the evenings, at varying locations from Tuckerton to Barnegat. Performance Dates: August 2 to 4 at Barnegat High School. Questions? Email jessica@bellarinetheatre.com.

CLASSIFIEDS

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)

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)

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)

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)

WE BUY CARS - Any year. Any model. Any condition. Running or Not. CASH PAYMENT AND FREE PICK UP OF VEHICLE. 609-384-1610. Www.Webuycars2day.com. (21)

Services Services Services Services Help Wanted

Childcare in my home Brick/Point border Princeton Ave. - Many years experience with infants toddlers and school aged. 2 full time positions available 1 part time. Great prices no registration. Call Jenn to set up a meet and greet 347-458-5797. (22)

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)

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)

We love nice people. Looking for honest, solid citizen who likes to talk and help people. Eaglespeed Auto has a counter/office position full or part time. Call Henry 848-333-3756. (22)

Services

VFW Post 100092 - Barnegat, NJ 08005. Coffee - donuts every Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Meeting 2nd Thursday1800-2000 hours each month. Looking for new members, call 609-698-4120. (21)

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. (22)

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

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)

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)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Also offering typing services. Very good prices. 732-330-4189, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

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. (21)

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

Roofing - Covering the Jersey Shore since 1984. Removal of old shingles, all woodwork inspected and repaired. GAF lifetime roofing shingles. meticulous cleanup. Fully insured and free estimates. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. NJ Lic # 13VH11804800. (17)

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213. (t/n)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-2163176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (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)

Brazilian House Cleaner! - Good References and Free estimate! Call me to a appointment! Lucy 732-966-5142. (14)

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, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

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:

Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

Auto For Sale

Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

Services

Other

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

At Home Caregiver - looking for live-in or hourly position. Experience & references. Own car. Call nataly 732-527-6100. (20)

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)

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:

order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

word = $ Total = $

Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:

Name:

TO : PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388. Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

INCLUDE YOUR BILLING ADDRESS (THIS IS REQUIRED)

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

OCC Foundation Scholarship Celebration

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County College Foundation will host the 2024 Scholarship Celebration on June 28 at 6 p.m. on OCC’s main campus in Toms River. The annual open-tent event is an opportunity for the Foundation to honor extraordinary individuals in the community while raising crucial funds to help students fulfi ll their dreams of a college education. Tickets and sponsorships are available now.

This year’s event will honor: The Citta Foundation for its long-standing support of OCC and the Ocean County community; Ilene Cohen, OCC’s executive director of Athletics, for her enthusiastic leadership and advocacy for the advancement of the College’s student-athletes; and College Lecturer Lincoln A. Simmons for his tremendous contributions to the academic programs at OCC and pivotal leadership roles on collegewide committees.

The event committee is chaired by Michael Manzo, chair of the OCC Foundation Board of Trustees. Kenneth J. Malagiere, executive director of the OCC Foundation, will host the evening’s

festivities, which feature a gourmet buffet and a silent auction.

To support a student with a scholarship or for information on becoming a sponsor, donating an auction item, or purchasing tickets to the event, visit go.ocean.edu/ gala or call the OCC Foundation at 732255-0492. Proceeds from the annual Scholarship Celebration support the mission of the Ocean County College Foundation.

Since 1965, the OCC Foundation has provided support for thousands of deserving students in our community, awarding over $21 million in direct scholarship and special program support. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we are able to continue to provide additional assistance across our college community in truly impactful ways, including the funding for the Helping Hands Food Pantry, the Blauvelt Speaker Series, the Grunin Center for the Arts, the Global Travel Experience, Veterans Affairs, the Novins Planetarium, the Citta Sailing Center, Viking Athletics, and many more college and student-led initiatives.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Help Spread Love One Lasagna At A Time

LAWRENCEVILLE – Thanks to Lasagna Love NJ, hundreds of New Jersey residents receive a homemade lasagna every month. Whether you’re going through a financial hardship or difficult medical or emotional time, Lasagna Love delivers homemade dishes as a symbol of care and compassion, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort to those in need.

New Jersey, regional director Donna Disbrow shares, “Delivering lasagnas to a family in need warms the hearts of everyone involved. About one hundred lasagnas are delivered every week in New Jersey, thanks to the kindness of our volunteers. Last Fall, 500 families waited months for a lasagna, because the requests outweighed the number of volunteers. All of those families have

now been fed, but in order to prevent that from happening again, we need more volunteers to cook, donate supplies, and deliver lasagnas.”

Lasagna Love NJ is currently looking for volunteers to cook and/or deliver lasagnas to families in need. To find out how you can help, visit lasagnalove.org/ volunteer to register today!

Lasagna Love is a global nonprofit organization whose volunteers purchase ingredients, cook and deliver lasagna to a family in need. Their mission is to feed families, spread kindness and strengthen communities. Since 2020 the nonprofit has joined together more than 52,000 volunteers from around the world and fed more than 1.8 million people.

Night Of e Stars

OCEAN COUNTY – Spend the night under the stars with A.S.T.R.A., The Astronomical Society of the Toms River Area. Whether you’re a budding astronomer or simply a casual a stargazer, this night is for you. Volunteer members of the club will be on-site to share their out-of-this-world knowledge and answer your questions about the great unknown. They will have telescopes that will leave your mind reeling in amazement for days from the views you see. If you have your own telescope, feel free to bring it along.

The club members will be happy to give you pointers on how to find the planets and locate constellations. No registration required. This is an all ages, free program. Ending time approximate. Weather permitting!

Soccer Field Parking Lot, Jakes Branch County Park Beachwood: May 18 and June 8 from 9 to 11 p.m.

Cloverdale Farm County Park, Barnegat: May 11 from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Patriots County Park, Jackson: June 1 from 9 to 11 p.m.

Kids’ Stu Flea Market

LAKEWOOD – The Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation will hold their annual Kids’ Stuff Flea Market at Ocean County Park, 659 Ocean Ave, Lakewood, on May 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be located inside the park at the Beach Complex parking lot.

The event will be rain or shine, and is a great opportunity to buy items related to children, including toys, games, clothing, and sporting goods. New and used items may be sold.

To register as a vendor, visit the website at oceancountyparks.org or email Jake at jhaug@co.ocean.nj.us for an application.

e Largest Venomous Animal On Earth AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Originally discovered in Australia, the Komodo dragon migrated from their native home in Indonesia approximately 900,000 years ago. Comprised of only a handful of islands in Indonesia, the Komodo National Park is one of the wild places you would find the dragon, where they are heavily monitored to protect their habitat as well as visitors. The dragon is also found in parts of Africa, Australia, and southeastern Asia.

The Komodo dragon, a member of the monitor lizard family, can reach a length of 10 feet long and weight more than 300 pounds. They are the world’s largest lizard with a massive appetite for meat. The Indonesian islands are one place where these dragons can be found in their native habitat. Don’t think that you can travel to one of these islands and take a walk through the woods by yourself. The woods are full of these massive creatures and being accompanied by a ranger or guide who is armed with a 6-foot-long wooden staff is required.

Listed as an endangered species, conservation is promoted throughout the United States (Pittsburgh Zoo, the

Bronx Zoo, and the Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park in Washington, D.C., to name a few) where you can visit. The fascination in this lizard’s large size and predatory habits has contributed to it becoming a tourist attraction. In turn, that attraction has supported its protection.

The diet of this predator consists of mostly carrion, but they can take down enormous prey, such as deer, pigs, cattle, water buffalo, along with members of their own species. They can occasionally be dangerous to humans. When hunting for prey, it is their venomous bite delivering toxins that causes the prey’s blood to clot, causing the animal to go into shock, leading to rapid blood loss. The animal is dead or near death when the dragon takes possession of their prey. In one sitting the Komodo dragon is capable of consuming 80% of their body weight.

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.

Youth Library Volunteer Program

TOMS RIVER – Attention teens: The perfect opportunity to share your talents, broaden your knowledge and help your community is here. Beginning May 1, the Ocean County Library will accept applications for the 2024 Service and Achievement in the Library (S.A.I.L.) program.

S.A.I.L is open to teens who are entering eighth grade and older. You’ll learn library functions, take part in projects, and develop your people skills. S.A.I.L. is a great way to earn community service hours and a terrific addition to your ré-

sumé or CV.

Positions are limited in number and will be fi lled on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. Virtual options will be at the discretion of each branch teen services librarian. Please contact your local branch teen services librarian with your questions and concerns.

Applications at theoceancountylibrary. org/teens/SAIL go live at 9 a.m. May 1.

To register, complete and submit the form by your local branch’s deadline. See all about it on YouTube.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Stock option in a seafood business?

7 Works for literati 14 Rather dense 15 Waterway dividing two sides of a college football rivalry

16 Knesset country 17 Digits in parentheses

18 Isn’t quite neutral 19 Signer of the first of the Oslo Accords

20 Pad kee mao pan

Huff

One of many on Massachusetts Avenue in D.C.

__ machine

Dappled horses

Chat 32 Washington’s Grand __ Dam 33 Webinar’s first

Like Robert Johnson’s music

Styling combs

Fifth-century bishop in Ire.

Tempts

Grammar police, e.g.

Took off

Help for a broken-hearted BFF

Some IRAs

Bass kin

“OK, sure”

Ancient Roman province now part of

Diet option in black cans

1 Sanitizes, perhaps

2 Playwright called “The Father of Realism” 3 Truthfully 4 Dramatic advance

Exploits 6 London’s __ Pie Island

7 Ancient physician’s reference book

8 Bean sprouts?

9 Bottom-up, in a way

10 “__ sunt dracones”: line on an ancient globe 11 Profess 12 Take from the top 13 Long haul 15 Raucous crowd 19 Floor 22 Magazine whose archive was purchased by a consortium that includes the Smithsonian 23 “Bingo”

25 Keep from crack-

ing, perhaps

27 Yellowstone, for one

28 Good name for a knight?

29 Dates

30 Breaks down 31 Unorthodox sect

32 Pigeon holes

34 Trading places

36 Try and reach quickly

38 Shampoo buys

40 Spa wear

42 Hurries toward safety

43 Brown bread

44 Onetime producer of Magna Doodle

45 “Sex on Fire” Grammy winners Kings of __

46 Candle holder

48 Pyrite crystal, at times

50 Female lobster

51 Abbey’s husband on “The West Wing”

(c)2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may experience a relief of stress and guilt by honoring your commitments. Remain understanding and empathetic even when it may be challenging. Your charm may attract supportive and helpful people who may celebrate your efforts.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may have been taking creative leaps that exceed the limits, but your imaginative ideas might still have room to grow. Focus on activities that require an innovative touch. Lean on your peer group for support and encouragement.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may experience a mixture of wins and losses in the upcoming week. You may feel you are under relentless pressure to make money but there could be obstacles in your path. Stay focused on your tasks and routine rather than on your accounts.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Better communication might be the answer to most of your challenges. Let your ambitions be known and communicate your needs with someone close. Take time to lay the groundwork for important plans that must be started in the week ahead.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Being a perfectionist won’t guarantee that anyone can be flawless, including yourself. Utilize sensitivity and diplomacy if you feel the need to double-check someone’s details. Employ social grace and compassion to navigate your way through the world.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may find a new sense of clarity as things could start falling into place and revealing the entire picture. Discuss things with someone you trust. As you gain a better understanding of the facts, you might be enlightened about an important matter.

FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 4 - MAY 10 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): It may be of benefit for you and others if you strive to have conversations over lectures. Being entertaining and thoughtful could transform mundane subjects. Temporary attractions should be unlikely to disturb your important connections.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In the week ahead, you might feel called to put down roots and settle into a routine that may be safe and dependable based on your needs. Adopting a rational approach and putting emotions aside could put conflicting desires into perspective.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): It may be difficult to recognize aspects of yourself that could be improved upon. When others point out what they believe to be your shortcomings, lean in with curiosity and humility. You may want to remain objective in conflicts at home.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Treating everyone the same way you’d treat your inner circle might result in a sense of harmony and equality. You may feel overlooked as someone close could be busier than usual and might not have an abundance of time to dedicate.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may be focused on achieving your ambitions and this could lead to the exclusion of everything else. Remind yourself to take care of your well-being by taking breaks. You might find balance by exercising or making plans with a friend.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Old ideas could resurface for reconsideration. You may have a new perspective that puts what you could have previously reviewed onto a brand-new path. The more you seek security and peace, the more likely you might attract it.

THESE VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY BURGERS ARE DELICIOUS

By America’s

Test Kitchen

SALMON BURGERS WITH ASPARAGUS AND LEMON-HERB SAUCE

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