2024-06-01 - The Berkeley Times

memorial day events remember those who paid dearest price

By Bob Vosseller BERKELEY

– A ceremony was held at Amherst Beach while a Blessing of the Fleet was held in the Barnegat Bay in honor of veterans who are no longer with us.

Clergy from a local church blessed boats, some of which were decorated patriotically. A wreath was laid upon the water.

The Memorial Day Commemoration was on Amherst Beach. A number of officials and community leaders

Photo by Bob Vosseller

spoke and the Central Regional ROTC were in attendance. These events were organized by the Berkeley Shores Homeowners Association.

Despite the threat of rain, the milestone 90th Annual Ocean County Memorial Day Parade went on as scheduled in Toms River.

While most of the weekend proved warm and sunny, Memorial Day itself featured dark gray skies and periodic rain throughout the day. The 8:30 a.m. rain

gave way to a slightly sunny sky without any dampness for the many parade participants and spectators who came out to Main Street where

the parade kicked off an hour later.

Coordinated by Toms River American Legion Post 129, the parade featured members of the Township Police Department including their Police Chief Mitch Little, State Police Troopers, the Toms River Fire Department and area EMS units.

Noting the very purpose of Memorial Day was a group made up of family and friends that carried a banner honoring Vincent M. Frassetto, a Toms River

(Memorial DaySee Page 4)

Getting Ready For Summer, Officials “Unlock The Ocean”

By Bob Vosseller LAVALLETTE –

When you unlock something as large and valuable as the Atlantic Ocean, you need a big key and that is exactly what local government officials brought with them to the beach to kick off the summer season.

The event showcased the Philadelphia Avenue gazebo and shoreline of Lavallette. It included county and local public officials, students and staff of the Lavallette Elementary School, US Navy Captain James B. Howell, commanding officer,

Naval Support Activity Lakehurst and Deputy Commander of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and several Navy sailors and residents.

“It is a glorious day. I can’t tell you how proud I am that Lavallette was chosen

(Ocean - See Page 4)

New Tech Gives Students Mental Health Help

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY - Central Regional School

District students now have access to an app that will provide self-help resources, immediate crisis support, and anonymous communication with experts.

The HELPme App by STOPit Solutions is available for cell phones, one to one devices and Chromebooks, school officials said.

“I am excited to partner with STOPit to support our students that may not feel comfortable coming forward to an adult in

the building,” Superintendent Dr. Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder said. “We want those students to know that there is a safe place to get the help they need, so that they feel loved and seen. We are here for them, and we support them and sometimes kids just need an avenue. I want to provide that avenue.”

“This is a fundamental health resource so that kids know that there are options if they need help,” CarneyRay-Yoder said. HELPme was brought to the Board of Education by Kevin Askew,

(Students - See Page 4)

People Entering Workforce After Jail Share Success Stories

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER - A packed room of officials and community leaders gathered to witness the grand opening of NJ Reentry Corporation’s 24 Main Street location. While two former governors and the Ocean County Prosecutor addressed the crowd, the most impactful statements came from those not necessarily accustomed to the spotlight. Among them was Rob

Carter, the program’s Director of Operations, whose story underscored NJ Reentry’s vital role in transforming lives.

Carter spoke candidly about the struggles of reintegrating into society after nine felony convictions and battling a severe addiction. Released from prison over 17 years ago, he didn’t have a support system like the one now offered by

(NJ ReentrySee Page 5)

A wreath was placed in the Barnegat Bay as part of a Memorial Day ceremony.

A boat parade, wreath ceremony, and an event on shore marked Memorial Day in Berkeley Township.

Photos courtesy Berkeley Shores

Lavallette Mayor Walter LaCicero (center) and Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi hold a large key that was used to “unlock” the Atlantic Ocean.

Memorial

Day:

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U.S. Marine veteran who died at the age of 21 on September 7, 2006 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

He was a member of the 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and died while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. It was his first week of missions in the country and his convoy was struck by an improvised explosive device.

The Tin Can Sailors were among several military oriented groups who are always represented at the parade. “We are a bunch of (Naval) destroyer veterans. We had an average of eight minutes in battle because we were assigned to take the torpedoes for the aircraft carrier, the battleship so if we were in a battle we were expected to live for eight minutes,” Chaplain Bill Schmidt of Manchester Township remarked at the lineup point with his fellow members.

Schmidt invited those interested to American Legion Post 129 where the group meets, on

Students:

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the chief revenue officer for STOPit Solutions. He used to be a member of the Township Council and Berkeley Board of Education.

“We presented this to the board, and we look forward to our solution being an integral part of the safety and wellness initiatives in the district going forward,” Askew said.

The school district received the app

Ocean:

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as the location for the very first open the ocean ceremony. Ocean County has 44 miles of beaches. We have one mile and we are very proud of what we have here,” LaCicero said.

The mayor added, “anyone who has traveled the world and been to many beaches knows that Ocean County beaches are second to none. The color of the sand, the texture, the softness combine to make this the absolute best place in the entire world to vacation and as everyone knows tourism is the number one industry here in Ocean County.”

The mayor was joined by Council President Anita Zalom, Councilwoman Joanne Filippone, Councilman David Finter and Police Chief Christian LaCicero at the event that he said, “will kick off what is going to be a very busy tourism season here in 2024 in Ocean County.”

Captain Howell whose sea duty assignments include HSL-46, HSL-42, Tacron 22 and USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) led

Church Road at noon on the third Wednesday of the month, “we have an open meeting and while you are there you can order breakfast or lunch and eat while we conduct our meeting.”

“We have a lot of camaraderie because we have many like experiences and it is not just destroyer veterans even though that is the name of our group, the Tin Can Sailors National Destroyer Association, but we also take in other folks. We have guys who have served on aircraft carriers and supply ships and some station at the Joint Base and a guy who was stationed at a Naval base in Germany. We take in anyone who is interested,” group Commander Jerry Correll said.

Correll added, those interested include, “historians who want to know about destroyer history, history of the Navy and we get together for fellowship at our meetings. We put out information about today’s Navy and we have a good time. People tell their sea stories.” It was noted that while the “Army has a band of brothers, we have the Tin Can Sailors.”

Schmidt added that model builders are also a part of the group as well. “If you are a member of a historical society and want to join us you can do that too or if any of your relatives were in the Navy that is completely

through a donation from STOPit. The company supports 1,700 school districts nationally – 150 of which are in New Jersey.

“HELPme is here to give students a safe space to voice concerns about themselves or someone else, or to seek help when they’re facing difficulties,” Askew said. “Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Your mental health matters, and reaching out is a brave and important step.”

The app launched at the same time as the district’s partnership with InSite Health, which will offer counseling and

the flag salute. He became commanding officer of NSA Lakehurst last summer and introduced the NAS sailors that were present.

Commissioner Frank Sadeghi, who serves as liaison to Business Development and Tourism office, also noted the sunny warm day. “I don’t know if there is anything better than to be at the Jersey shore on a day like this.”

The Business and Tourism department arranged for some giveaways at their table which included refreshments, event frisbees, and bottles of water and the popular local small business.

Joint Base U.S. Air Force Senior Airman and Public Affairs member Matt Porter sang the National Anthem and then it was time for the Lavallette Elementary School students to sing Auli’i Cravalho’s “How Far I’ll Go” from the Disney animated film “Moana” which they also provided sign language for.

“We have a guest here. My favorite mascot. Buster is here,” Commissioner Sadeghi remarked. The big yellow character traveled from the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, a minor league baseball team

acceptable also.”

The United States Jersey Shore Base featured a wooden submarine as part of their entry while the Disabled American Veterans Ocean County Memorial Chapter 24, Toms River, waved to spectators from their float.

Local organizations included the Frontier Girls Troop 633 and Toms River Boy Scouts Troop 20 who carried a large American flag along the parade route. The Toms River East Raider Band performed and the Toms River High School JROTC marched. Toms River High School North Marching Mariners also showcased their talent during the parade.

At 11 a.m. Shore Boros American Legion Post 351 members held their traditional service. Their Seaside Heights post is in the midst of renovation having never recovered from the damage it sustained during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. The front of the building was recently demolished as part of the rebuilding project.

Post Commander William Kevish provided some history about Memorial Day during this year’s ceremony, “the first Memorial Day was not called Memorial Day, it was believed to have been celebrated with a parade with freed slaves and Union soldiers marching through Charleston, South Carolina in 1865.”

resources to students.

How It Works

HELPme can be downloaded to phones and Chromebooks or accessed via the web.

There are links to self-help resources both local and national. The district can also create links on it that lead to someone like a school counselor, social worker, or school security. There is also a crisis text line that students can use to get help.

Students and staff can communicate or ask for help anonymously, Askew said.

that plays at the Shore Town Ball Park in Lakewood.

Buster greeted and had his photo taken with the students and some adults after the unlocking ceremony had concluded.

“I want to wish everybody a healthy fun summer. We hope the weather will cooperate. Good luck to all the small businesses that are the backbone of the economy of this country. Tourism is an economic engine here in Ocean County,” Sadeghi said. Tourism is a $7 billion industry in Ocean County and results in the creation of 40,000 jobs annually.

Ocean County Director of Business Development and Tourism Sandra Lazzaro said, “the Ocean County Vocational School’s culinary department made beautiful cookies with a nautical theme and there is also a pail for some summer fun and we have copies of the 2024 travel guide.”

Borough resident Judith Leblein Josephs came out to not only witness the ceremony but to share some information about the New Jersey Swim Safety Alliance’s bathing suit and goggle drive. She noted that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children ages 1 to 4. “We lose

“Waterloo, New York is considered the official birth place of Memorial Day because after the town held an observance on May 5, 1866, General John Murray and General John A. Logan called on all communities to honor their war dead every year,” Kevish added. Kevish told the packed audience present, “Logan had been impressed on how the South had honored their Confederate soldiers for years and in 1868, Logan, who was head of a prominent veteran’s group, Grand Army of the Republic, issued a proclamation that Decoration Day be observed nationwide.”

The date chosen was May 30 “specifically because that was not on the anniversary of any battle and it was a day to honor the fallen veterans of all American wars. The alternative name, Memorial Day wasn’t commonly used until World War II, a two-front fight against tyranny which more than 400,000 Americans servicemen would die,” Kevish said.

The Ortley Beach Voters and Taxpayers Association, American Legion Post 351, Post 351 Auxiliary, Post 351 Sons of the Legion each donated memorial wreaths that were posted at the Post’s memorial display in front of their building later in the day.

Chris Lundy contributed to this story

Requests for help are routed to the appropriate person. School administrators will also receive a notification when a new report is received.

“Reports submitted through the HELPme system are received instantly,” Askew said. “In cases of anything life-threatening or an imminent threat, our team will immediately follow the emergency protocols that have been established in coordination with the district. We ensure that the appropriate steps are taken swiftly to contact the right people who can provide student support and manage the situation effectively.”

an average of 10 children to drowning each year. Swimming lessons are essential to the safety of children, especially in under resourced communities.”

The NJSSA works to get children swim lessons. “Some children in New Jersey - believe it or not - don’t have bathing suits and because they don’t have bathing suits they can’t take a free swim lesson. We collected 1,800 last year and this year we are hoping to get 2,000 new bathing suits and distribute them to various agencies.”

“One of the agencies is the Monmouth/ Asbury Park Boys and Girls Club. They provide swim lessons,” Leblein Josephs said. To learn more about the programs offered and how to support the group visit NJSwimSA.org. The agency’s Facebook page is @NJSwimSA and you can also e-mail info@njswimsa.org for information about water safety programs, newborn “introduction to water” classes and infant swim courses in your area.

“I’ve been working on drowning prevention for most of my career with parks and recreation and now a water park consultant,” she added. “This is state wide, non-profit, all volunteer.”

NJ Reentry:

Continued From Page 1

NJ Reentry.

Instead, Carter faced the uphill battle of trying to live as what he called a “normal” person – staying clean and fi nding a job. He admitted there were many times he just wanted to give up on the struggles he encountered.

“I stumbled, and it took me ten years to fi nally fi nd my path,” Carter said. “I lost a lot of friends who hit those same stumbling blocks but weren’t able to push through.”

As a leader within the NJ Reentry program, Carter treasures his role in helping others dismantle the roadblocks he encountered. He sees it as offering a fresh start for those who have served their time and envision a renewed future.

Shondra Coleman, a 51-year-old from Toms River, attributed her current employment at a military base to NJ Reentry’s assistance.

Sentenced to three years on a bank fraud charge, Coleman became eligible for early release after ten months because of the NJ CARES Act and COVID-19. Despite initial challenges, including being on an ankle monitor upon release, Coleman was determined to work.

“I didn’t want to sit home on a bracelet. I wanted to be productive,” she shared emotionally.

A disabled veteran with an impressive resume – flight attendant, corporate experience, and 16 years in real estate, Coleman

faced a harsh reality. Job offers vanished after background checks, leaving her feeling defeated.

Coleman credited NJ Reentry for guiding her through the employment obstacles and encouraging her as she navigated the challenges.

“They even helped me go to school, to reinvent myself,” Coleman said. “I got my CDL, and I graduated a day before I got my ankle monitor off – in October 2023.”

Eric Swain, 43, of Toms River, agreed with the importance of learning new skills post-release. A year ago, Swain sought assistance from NJ Reentry and was directed to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS).

“They paid for me to go to school at Ocean County Vo-Tech,” Swain said. “I did a 2–3-month program and got certified as a welder. I wouldn’t have been able to pay for it on my own.”

Currently undergoing physical and written tests to qualify as a union member, Swain anticipates gaining access to steady employment soon.

Facing legal troubles since the age of 14 for drug charges and other offenses, Swain remains optimistic about the future. He expressed confidence in NJ Reentry’s ongoing support in overcoming challenges stemming from his past.

Toms River resident Janine Stefanelli, 41, is living proof that second chances are possible. NJ Reentry helped her get back on her feet and fostered a supportive network that empowered her to build a fulfilling life. Stefanelli’s journey began in 2016 when

she faced incarceration due to drug charges. “I’m a recovering addict now,” she said, reflecting on the years since. “It’s been quite a few years.”

An unexpected connection emerged during her initial work with NJ Reentry. While crafting her resume, she discovered she shared a college alma mater with Toms River Facility Director Brian McGillivray. They didn’t know each other before – but have formed a tight bond.

Stefanelli said she faced severe consequences, including losing her daughter. Even though she’d worked as a manager for a long time, no one would hire her because of her criminal record.

However, Stefanelli persevered. She returned to NJ Reentry, this time with a renewed determination. “This time, I was serious,” she emphasized. “I wanted my life back. Everything.”

The impact of NJ Reentry goes beyond practical support. Stefanelli said that the people in the program became her family, accepted her despite her relapses, and offered encouragement. She’s proud to have started her own business doing house cleaning and house construction cleanup.

As one of the premier faces assisting ex-offenders, McGillivray’s name comes up frequently among program participants. He takes great pride in helping others start their lives over – no matter how many times. McGillivray’s also enjoying his new office inside the bank vault previously located at NJ Reentry’s new location.

And, while he has never experienced the challenges some of his clients have faced,

he knows someone who has. Although McGillivray didn’t realize it when he fi rst began working for NJ Reentry in 2018, his biological father was incarcerated at some point in his life.

“Everyone needs a second chance,” said former Governor James McGreevey. “When we fi rst developed NJ Reentry, we were focusing on persons coming home from prison as well as veterans.”

However, McGreevey credited former Governor Chris Christie’s leadership for playing a crucial role in expanding its reach. Christie recognized the severity of the opioid crisis, particularly the surge in heroin and the subsequent rise of fentanyl. He saw a particular need in Ocean County, which had become an epicenter of the crisis

The program includes a commitment to providing individuals with access to detoxification, residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and medication-assisted treatments (MAT).

No medication-assisted treatments are provided on-site at the NJ-Reentry location.

The late Thomas F. Kelaher, a former Toms River mayor, deputy attorney general, and Ocean County Prosecutor, also played a pivotal role in establishing the NJ Reentry program in Ocean County. McGreevey fondly recalled how Kelaher wrote the fi rst check for the program’s permit.

Speaking on behalf of Kelaher’s family, Dan Mahoney reflected on his late friend’s unwavering commitment, reminiscing about their shared time at the prosecutor’s office.

(NJ Reentry - See Page 8)

FREE Family Movie Night! “Beautifully Broken” Friday, June 14th • 6:30pm

There will be FREE refreshments as well!

Wheaton Ave • Bayville, NJ 08721 • 732.269.5690

Artists Of The Month

Golden Eagle Baseball Camp

BERKELEY –This four-day baseball summer camp is from June 2 to June 27. Available for 5- to 14-year-olds. Age groups will be 5 to 6, 7 to 8, 9 to 10, 11 to 12, 13 to 14. Camp will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Campers can expect to receive instruction in all aspects of the game. They can also expect to have a ton of fun!

The camp is instructed by Central Regional High School coaching staff, led by

head coach Mike Puglisi. The instructors will also include an array of varsity and college-level players.

There will be surprises for the kids, such as fun games, guest speakers, and awards! Each camper will also receive a free t-shirt! Admission is $150 per camper. Additional questions can be emailed to Coach Puglisi at mpuglisi@centralreg.k12.nj.us. Register at forms.gle/n9xbgkKqKcK8HzBR6.

Berkeley Ladies Seniors Upcoming Trips

BERKELEY – Berkeley Lady Seniors are going to Surflight Theater on July 23. They will be seeing “Footloose” and tickets are $35. If you have any further questions, contact Marge at 239-272-6857.

Their fall trip is going to Niagara Falls and Toronto from September 16 to 20. Everything is included for $790. Call for a flyer or for more information.

On September 21, 2025, they are sailing on Royal Caribbean the Symphonies of the Seas out of Bayonne. This is a seven-night cruise visiting Orlando, Nassau and CocoCay Bahamas. Outside balcony for two is $2,676, ocean view is $2,086 and an inside cabin is only $1,819.

For more information on these trips, contact Marge at 239-272-6857.

BERKELEY – Congratulations to the Bayville School Artists of the Month shown here with Mrs. Ettari!

Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools

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

Senate Budget GOP Releases Letter To Fix “Murphy’s Broken Budget”

TRENTON - Senate Republican Budget Officer Declan O’Scanlon (R-13), Senator Michael Testa (R-1), Senator Doug Steinhardt (R-23), and Senator Carmen Amato (R-9) called on the governor and Trenton Democrats to work with Republicans to control spending and lower taxes. The letter highlighted two previous Republican budget proposals (FY24 budget resolutions and FY23 budget resolutions) that contain relevant solutions to address the overwhelming waste and excess that has exacerbated New Jersey’s affordability crisis.

“Our past budget resolutions sought additional tax relief, a full restoration of school and municipal aid, and financial support for various service providers - all of whom have been struggling due to New Jersey’s affordability crisis,” said the Senators in their letter. “We also proposed how to morethan-pay-for these priorities to help address budget imbalances and increase funding for debt reduction. Our ideas for improving the budget have almost been entirely ignored by the Democrat Majority.”

An abridged version of the letter to Senate President Scutari and Assembly Speaker Coughlin follows:

In prior years, Republican members of the

Senate Budget Committee submitted 40-50 page “budget resolutions” that set forth comprehensive changes to the Governor’s budget proposal. Rather than submit another one, we encourage you to finally give serious consideration to the last two submissions – and the general approach to budgeting they embody. They can be found here and here and contain many still-relevant suggestions that have long gone ignored by the Governor and the Democrat Majority.

Our past budget resolutions sought additional tax relief, a full restoration of school and municipal aid, and financial support for various service providers – all of whom have been struggling due to New Jersey’s affordability crisis. We also proposed how to more-thanpay for these priorities to help address budget imbalances and increase funding for debt reduction.

Our ideas for improving the budget have been almost entirely ignored by the Democrat Majority – though there has been bipartisan support for programs that support a broad array of service providers who care for people who are sick, disabled, or face extraordinary challenges. Nonetheless, the Majority has repeatedly introduced and enacted budgets in late June with no substantive restraints to spending proposed by the Governor, which budgets have included an additional billion dollars of spending for politically favored projects that are never explained – even though Joint Senate/Assembly Rule 42 requires a release of explanations prior

to a vote.

As in the past, we continue to believe the Governor’s proposed FY 2025 Budget can be made fundamentally better in the areas of tax relief, school and municipal aid, and financial support for various service providers. Similar to our prior more detailed budget resolutions, we continue to advocate for the following priorities.

Provide Tax/Fee/Fare Relief: OLS has identified $2.6 billion in tax/fee/fare increases in the coming year. There are increases in: highly regressive employee wage taxes, NJT fares, and highway tolls; the income tax (bracket creep); HMO insurance taxes; a new truck tax; taxes on school supplies (ending the sales tax holiday); and a new corporate surcharge claimed to be for NJ Transit when 100% of the revenue is being diverted to everything but NJ Transit. In addition to stopping as many of these tax increases as possible, we continue to support an income tax deduction for contributions to NJ-based nonprofits. This will reduce tax burdens, and more importantly, shift more charitable giving away from out-of-state institutions, and towards NJ-based charities whose health is critical for our State.

Fully Restore Aid Cuts to Schools and Municipalities: The Governor proposed cutting school aid to approximately 150 school districts despite a badly broken school funding formula, high inflation, and the need to address learning loss. He also proposed slashing municipal aid to all municipalities which are raising property taxes or reducing local services to address inflation and State billing increases for pensions and health benefits.

Provide Additional Financial Support for

Various Service Providers: The Governor shortsightedly and arbitrarily cut funding for county colleges, independent universities, battered women’s services, and other Statewide and regional service providers. And, as with past years, the Governor has withheld reasonable inflationary increases for various service providers that will cause them to lose ground in times of high inflation and staffing challenges and trigger service reductions to vulnerable populations. We strongly support restoring these cuts and meeting requests for reasonable increases that have been advanced by service providers including: mental health managed care organizations and other mental health service providers; ACCSESNJ, Easter Seals, ARC, and other advocates for people with disabilities; the Coalition Against Sexual Assault; hospitals; nursing homes; Hispanic service groups; cancer research facilities; smoking cessation programs; manufacturing/stem (science and technology) advocates; home health care workers and private duty nursing providers; nonpublic and charter school advocates; and the Commission on Science Innovation and Technology. It’s frustrating year after year to see a Governor’s budget proposal that fails to help these efficient partners in service delivery when much of their inflation is mandated by the State in terms of minimum wage increases, new benefit requirements, and payroll tax increases. Failing to support their reasonable requests for increases equates to cutting the nonprofit sector, which delivers important services to people when the State can’t, or would do so less efficiently. We expect that you will again be supportive in this area.

Bill Would Combat Opioid Crisis, Increase Access To Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced legislation to establish a pharmacy-based addiction care pilot program. The Substance Use Prevention and Pharmacy Oriented Recovery Treatment Prescription Act (SUPPORT Rx) would increase access to lifesaving addiction services provided by pharmacies, including low-barrier treatment and buprenorphine, a medication used for opioid use disorder.

The opioid crisis continues to escalate, with drug overdose deaths reaching

alarming levels. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl have exacerbated the crisis, contributing to over 82% of all opioid-involved deaths in 2020. This legislation emphasizes the importance of medication-assisted treatment, combining prescription medication, counseling, and behavioral therapy to address opioid use disorder effectively.

“Our nation is facing the worst drug epidemic in its history, and fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are the driving forces currently devastating communities across our nation,” said Senator Booker. “Right now, individuals struggling with addiction face barriers to receiving necessary treatment and care, but this bipartisan legislation provides an innovative solution by leveraging pharmacies

as hubs for addiction care where patients can receive treatment safely and quickly with fewer barriers. We must act now to expand access to life-saving treatments and services, and continue crafting effective policy so Americans struggling with addiction can get the help they need.”

“Opioid and heroin addiction is ripping our communities apart, and action is needed,” said Senator Braun. “Buprenorphine is used to wean users off of opioids, heroin, and fentanyl, and has shown promising results when compared to methadone. This bill will create a pilot program to incentivize addiction treatments using buprenorphine to prevent opioid overdoses and save lives, families, and communities.”

Medication-assisted treatment is the combination of prescription medication, counseling, and behavioral therapy to treat an individual afflicted by opioid

use disorder. Pharmacy-based treatment models present a novel method to expand access to treatment medications. By harnessing the potential of pharmacy-based treatment models, the bill aims to bridge the gap in access to care and save lives. With 95% of Americans living within five miles of a pharmacy, pharmacies can be used as critical access points for this type of care and significantly improve the effectiveness and accessibility of treatment. Specifically, the bill will require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide grants to demonstrate pharmacy-based addiction care programs. Grants can be used for:

Offering evidence-based medication treatments for opioid/substance use disorder that can be accessed through same- day services.

Training pharmacists on treating and

Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District

Senator Cory Booker

NJ Reentry:

Continued From Page 5

“If I could sum up the essence of Tom Kelaher, it would be to be a man for others,” Mahoney said. “Do what’s right always, even when nobody’s looking.”

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer emphasized his office’s partnership with NJ Reentry, expressing a dedication to improving outcomes for residents.

“We are aware of the collateral damage that incarceration brings, and we approach every case with the duty to serve and protect the victims of crime,” said Billheimer. “But also, to be aware of those collateral consequences to those that are incarcerated.”

A former criminal defense attorney, Billheimer, cited challenges faced by those released from jail or prison, which many take for granted.

“Maybe they didn’t have an ID or transportation,” Billheimer shared. “Finding out

you have fi nes in other jurisdictions that don’t let you restore your driver’s licenses… More complicated issues like housing, family members passing away while you’re incarcerated, substance abuse disorder, obviously all of those things.”

NJ Reentry has nine other locations within the state and Christie said it was great to watch the center open in Ocean County.

“When I first supported it, I said to the governor (McGreevey) that we can’t just be in North Jersey,” said Christie. “We just can’t be in urban counties – because these problems are everywhere.”

In addition to acknowledging Kelaher’s role in bringing NJ Reentry to Ocean County, Christie also recognized George Gilmore, the chairman of the Ocean County GOP.

“In things that were important to Ocean County,” Christie said. “He always reminded me when I was governor that we had to make sure that everyone who had challenges, problems, issues – no matter where they were located in the state - needed attention paid to those problems.”

to issue draft guidance with technical assistance, recommendations, and best practices regarding pharmacy-based addiction treatment.

managing patients with opioid and other substance use disorders

Continuity fee payments to providers or clinics.

Tele-behavioral health services and the construction to permit private or semi-private spaces for counseling and administration of medication.

HIPPAA-compliant technology for data sharing with clinicians.

Require Health and Human Services

The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, National Association for State Boards of Pharmacy, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, American College of Clinical Pharmacy, National Alliance of State, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists, The Partnership for Drug Free NJ, and The Overdose Prevention Initiative.

with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

Firefi ghter Graduates From Academy

Photo courtesy Bayville Volunteer Fire Department

BAYVILLE – On May 20, Ocean County College hosted the Ocean County Fire Academy Graduation Ceremony.

After approximately 400 hours of training over the past seven months, Firefighter

Lucas Donahue of Bayville Volunteer Fire Department graduated earning his Firefighter State Level 1 and Level 2 certifications. Congratulations Lucas on this great accomplishment and welcome to the Fighting 17th!

Relay For Life: Volunteers, Sponsors Wanted

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – Just like a relay race, the Berkeley-Lacey Relay For Life is making the rounds again. It will be held on June 15-16 at Veterans Park in Bayville.

The goal of these participants is not to win the race, but to win the fight against cancer.

According to the World Health Organization, cancer accounted for one in six deaths globally in 2020. Relays for Life raise money for the American Cancer Society to help patients with rides to appointments, lodging for family, a hotline, and more. It’s the best way to help those struggling with the disease and fight it by researching cures.

The event starts at noon on Saturday, lasts overnight, and ends the next morning. This symbolizes the darkness that comes with a cancer diagnosis, and the light of

hoping for a better tomorrow, said Event Lead Robyn Paciulli-Griffith.

Throughout the evening, there will be scheduled laps for various groups. The fi rst lap, for example, is made up of survivors.

The event is currently looking for sponsors, volunteers, teams, and anyone interested in donating some time. For example, if they have a business and would be interested in running an activity during the event. If you would like to help or participate, reach out to Paciulli-Griffith at 848-333-7318 or rnofgnt@yahoo.com.

Although Veterans Park is a far cry from Yasgur’s farm, the theme of this year’s Relay is “Woodstock.” That’s why there will be some musical accompaniment at various times throughout the two days. For more information on how to help, or how to get help, visit cancer.org

Berkeley Township Summer Camp

BERKELEY – Summer camp is $300 for a six-week program, which includes a t-shirt. (sign up now to avoid a $50 late registration fee).

Pre-camp program is $250 for the sixweek program. Post-camp program is

$350 for six-week program. Pre & Post Camp Program is $550 for the six-week programs.

Manitou Basketball Camp is $300 for a six-week program, which includes a t-shirt. For more information, call 732-244-7400.

– Berkeley Township Elementary Schools’ Stock Market Teams took 1st and 2nd Place in the Spring 2024 SIFMA Foundation Stock Market Game

out

Students View Nature At Catt us Island

BERKELEY – On May 20, Ofsanko’s class at Bayville School had a beautiful day for their field trip to Cattus Island. They went seining and saw so much wildlife: egrets, blue crab, shrimp,

Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools jellyfish, red-winged blackbirds, and hawks to name a few. They did some soil sampling and investigation, toured the inside exhibit and made memories to last a lifetime.

Change In Meeting Date

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – The date for the Township Council meeting in June has been changed

the 24th

BERKELEY

Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools

of 153 teams in the State Region in the Elementary category. This is Mr. Steinmetz’s Team 6th win in eight years! Way to go Berkeley!

Student’s Drawings Come to Life Th anks To Art Class

BERKELEY – May 17 was an exciting day at Clara B. Worth School! A few months ago, students in all kindergarten classes as well as Mrs. Jagger’s class created drawings of monsters in art class with Mrs. Krajewski. Those monster drawings were then sent to the Fiber Arts teacher, Mindy Barrett, at Central Regional High School. Ms. Barrett’s high school students created stuffed animals of all of the monster drawings.

Art students from Central came to Clara B. Worth to present students with “stuffies” perfectly matching their monster drawings. Central students spent time with students drawing and answering questions. Everyone enjoyed this unique collaborative art project!

Tennis Players Place In Ocean County Tournament

BERKELEY – Congratulations to Central Regional’s Lance King and Travis Jenkins who took 3rd place in the 1st doubles flight at Ocean County Tennis

Tournament.

Also, congratulations to Owen Elliott who placed 3rd at Ocean County Tennis Tournament in 3rd singles flight.

High School Students Partner With Stockton Marine Science Department

BERKELEY – The Central Regional Hockey team, accompanied by the Central Regional Environmental science club, met with the Stockton University Marine

science department along with a representative from the DEP and Reclam the Bay in hopes of them partnering up with the Rink2Reef program.

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE

In accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231 of the Laws of New Jersey, the Central Regional Board of Education is going to have Board meetings on the following dates:

Wednesday, June 5th, 2024 at 6pm - for Superintendent evaluation

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024 at 5pm – for a Board committee of the whole

In addition, the Board meeting scheduled for July 17th has been cancelled.

e meetings will be held in Board O ce behind Central Regional High School at 509 Forest Hills Parkway, Bayville, NJ 08721. e public is welcome to attend. Action may be taken.

Kevin O’Shea Business Administrator/Board Secretary

Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools

Photo courtesy Central Regional

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732-244-6606 • WWW.NEALPLUMBING.COM

Ocean Gate School’s Teacher Of The Year 2023-24

OCEAN GATE – What an absolute privilege and an honor to be able to recognize Ocean Gate School’s Teacher of the Year 2023-24, the one and only Mrs. Murphy, during the OCASA Teacher of the Year Recognition

Photo courtesy Ocean Gate School Breakfast Ceremony! They are “gator grateful” for everything Mrs. Murphy has done and continues to do for every person she meets, the entire school, and the extended Ocean Gate community!

Students Have Fun In Color Run

Photo courtesy Ocean Gate School

OCEAN GATE – Ocean Gate School thanks the Ocean Gate PTO for hosting a great Color Run after school!

Thanks to all of the participants and supporters. The Gators had a blast and enjoyed the special time together to end the school week! The Berkeley Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – Congratulations to the newest officer, Ptl. Joseph Gioia who was sworn in at a recent council meeting. He will now be assigned to the FTO program, best of luck Ptl. Gioia and welcome aboard!

Firefi ghters Graduate From Fire And Rescue Academy

PINE BEACH – Station 38 is bursting at the seams with pride as two of their own have taken their careers to the next level.

Firefighters Michael Diehl and Anthony Wandras graduated from the Horry County (SC) Fire and Rescue Academy. Firefighter Diehl received his badge from his father,

PBVFC Captain Joe Diehl, Firefighter Wandras received his badge from his father, Sr. Officer John Wandras, NJ Dept. Of Corrections.

Firefighter Diehl was also presented with the “Star of Life” Award for outstanding achievement in EMT training.

Photo courtesy Pine Beach Volunteer Fire Company No.1

Photo courtesy South Toms River Police

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)

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 732-451-3962 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!

STR EMS Blood Drive

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – STREMS

is excited to partner with the NJ Blood Services to host their first annual blood drive on June 21 from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Recreation Center, 1 Drake Lane,

Toms River.

Their goal is to collect 40 units of blood which will help 120 people. To sign up, call 1-80-933-2566 or visit donate.nybc.org/ donor/schedules/drive_schedule/322351.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Isidore Kirsh

The Gut-Brain Axis: A

Cohen, R. Ph.

Two-Way Communication System And 7 Steps For Healing

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

It’s interesting how some hormones like serotonin affect mood, and yet they’re made in the GI tract - your gut!

The gut-brain axis is a complex network indoor body that allows your gut and brain to communicate through both direct and indirect pathways. This connection explains how gut health impacts brain functions and vice versa. Understanding how it works can help with many mental health issues.

Imagine the gut and brain as friends having a deep conversation over tea. The brain’s activities, like stress and mood changes, can influence gut function, and signals from the gut can affect emotional and psychological well-being.

How Stress and Mood Affect the Gut

Stress: Stress can upset the stomach, leading to physical symptoms like “gut-wrenching” feelings. Chronic stress may contribute to digestive issues and mid-section fat accumulation.

Mood: The brain’s emotional state can affect gut health. Positive moods can promote a healthy gut environment, while stress, conflict and other negative emotions can disrupt it.

Anxiety: Anxiety can cause gut disturbances, reflecting the brain’s worrisome state. Most people live with chronic anxiety these days.

Neurotransmitters: Serotonin, produced mainly in the gut, acts as a messenger, influencing mood and gut function.

Fluctuations in serotonin levels directly impact emotional states and self-esteem. Sufficient serotonin is crucial for feeling calm, happy, and emotionally stable.

Disturbances in its production or signaling can lead to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Serotonin’s influence on mood also affects self-esteem, as feeling good biochemically can enhance feelings of value and confidence. Let’s talk about ways to help next.

7 Strategies to Boost Serotonin Levels

Increase Tryptophan Intake: Consuming foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, eggs,

cheese, nuts, and seeds, can boost brain serotonin levels.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity enhances serotonin production and receptor sensitivity, with aerobic exercises like running, cycling, and swimming being particularly effective.

Get Plenty of Natural Light: Sunlight exposure increases serotonin production and helps regulate sleep and mood.

Manage Stress: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can maintain healthy serotonin levels and improve receptor function.

Consider Probiotics: Probiotics can enhance gut health and potentially boost serotonin production. Foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir, or probiotic supplements, are beneficial. Probiotics improve thyroid hormone conversion, and thyroid hormone is your natural antidepressant.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like salmon and sardines, and in flaxseeds and walnuts, these acids may increase serotonin receptor responsiveness. This can help improve receptor sensitivity rather than ‘make’ more happy hormones.

Mindful Meditation: Regular meditation can enhance serotonin transmission, potentially increasing receptor sensitivity and effectiveness. As with the omega-3s, this can improve receptor sensitivity over time.

Understanding the role of the gut in serotonin production opens new possibilities for managing mood and self-esteem. By nurturing gut health through diet, exercise, and stress management, we can influence the brain’s biochemical landscape, promoting a happier, healthier mental state.

The saying “trust your gut” now has a scientifically backed significance, highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive gut-brain connection for overall well-being. I have a more detailed version of this article available at my website in case the topic interests you. To have it emailed, please 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.

Appeals And Interpretations:

What To Do If You Receive A Zoning Violation

By: Vincent DelRiccio, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

Municipalities have a variety of administrative officials who are charged with the enforcement of the ordinances of the municipality. In the course of their duties, administrative officers, whether it be the Code Enforcement or Zoning Officer are empowered to issue Notices of Violation and other penalties based on violations said ordinance. If you are the recipient of such a notice, the path forward may be unclear and confusing. Luckily, there are avenues that a recipient you can take advantage of to cure, or appeal said violation.

Under the Municipal Land Use Law (“MLUL”), the determination of an administrative officer is appealable to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. It is critical to note that the time frame for such an appeal is only 20 days from the receipt of the Notice of Violation. The appeal process involves a hearing before the Zoning

Board where you will have an opportunity to be heard as to why you believe the violation should not have been issued.

Many times, it is advisable to simultaneously bring an application before the Zoning Board which addresses the concerns raised in the Notice of Violation. Such an application provides you with an alternative means of gaining approval for the conditions that exist on your property which may have prompted the administrative officer to issue the violation.

Navigating the landscape of appeals and application to the Zoning Board can be an intimidating task, but the attorneys at R.C. Shea and Associates are here to help. If you have received a notice of violation from a zoning official, or plan to apply to a Planning or Zoning Board for any other reason, please give the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call for a consultation.

Vincent J. DelRiccio, Esq.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

With Summer Comes The Dreaded Greenhead Flies

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

The greenhead fly, also known as horsefly, is a species that bites. They are usually found on the east coast of the United States in coastal marshes and wetlands, mostly active in July through September. Adult females feed on blood during the time they lay their eggs – similar to how female mosquitos behave. They are not particular about where they get this blood protein from, whether it be humans, insects, or livestock. Their reign of causing misery is approximately 6 weeks.

The greenheads are attracted to sight and smell of their victims. The flies can smell the carbon dioxide you produce as you exhale. The females inject saliva into your bloodstream with their bite. The chemical from their saliva prohibits your blood from clotting resulting in pain from the bite. The discomfort and potential health risks associated with their bite may lead to allergic reactions, severe redness, itching and swelling. In some cases individuals with pre-existing conditions or compromised immune systems may be more likely to get infections from the fly’s bite. How to repel these flies? The best way to greenheads is to wear loose, white clothing

covering your body. Some commercially available products such as sprays, lotions and creams – brand names of Repel, OFF!, Cutter, Avon Skin-so-Soft, Sawyer. Outdoor environmental remedies from plants such as basil, lavender, mint, marigold, and citronella. Incorporating these types of plants in your outdoor living space may help. My research tells me there is no successful way to avoid these parasites, except staying indoors. Other research provided some hope.

Since I’m not one to submit without trying myself, here are some suggestions. Like all parasite control for your pet(s), it’s often best to incorporate multiple approaches. Don’t rely upon one item to do the trick, but rather, begin gathering some repellents and putting them into place so you are ahead of the greenflies as you step out outdoors to enjoy the Jersey shore. This is one creature I found no benefit in nature they are responsible for. Wishing you success!

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 is punishable.

Toms River Book Show Will Raise Money For Students

TOMS RIVER - The Toms River Book Show will be an opportunity for readers to shop for books and meet authors, and it’s also a fundraiser for afterschool sports and activities.

The event will take place on June 7 from 6-9 p.m. in the Toms River Artist Community gallery located at 40 Main Street (Route 9) in downtown Toms River (the former Wells Fargo bank).

The show takes place during one of the very well attended Downtown Night Out events. A

section of Washington Street from Main Street to Hooper Avenue is closed to vehicles. People eat outside, enjoying live music and ambiance. Hundreds of people come from miles around. The event is a fundraiser for the Toms River Education Foundation which helps provide extracurricular activities to enrich local children. Read more about it at tredfoundation.org/events and facebook.com/TomsRiverBookShow

To contact the organizers, email TomsRiverBooks@gmail.com

South Toms River Neighborhood Watch

SOUTH TOMS RIVER – Join this crucial and important organization. Come say hello, meet your neighbors, all are welcome!

Meetings are 6 p.m. at South Toms River

Borough Hall before the regular South Toms River council meetings.

Any questions, contact Lt. Michael Schneidt at 732-349-0313 ext.117 or email m.schneidt@ boroughofsouthtomsriver.com.

Berkeley Township Summer Camp

BERKELEY – Summer camp is $300 for a six-week program, which includes a t-shirt. (sign up now to avoid a $50 late registration fee).

Pre-camp program is $250 for the sixweek program. Post-camp program is

$350 for six-week program. Pre & Post Camp Program is $550 for the six weeks programs.

Manitou Basketball Camp is $300 for a six-week program, which includes a t-shirt. For more information, call 732-244-7400.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

BlueClaws Charities, NJNG Gives Scholarships

JERSEY SHORE – BlueClaws Charities and New Jersey Natural Gas have come together once again on a scholarship program in conjunction with the team’s Medusas de Jersey Shore brand and Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative.

“Copa de la Diversión,” or “Fun Cup,” is a season-long event series specifically designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams’ local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities. As part of the program, the BlueClaws become the Medusas de Jersey Shore at select games during the season.

Equity and Inclusion at New Jersey Resources. “We’re excited to work in our communities to advance this cause through this scholarship program and recognizes the potential of young people in our communities.”

Applicants are instructed to fill out this form: milb.com/jersey-shore/forms/ medusas-scholarship-2024.

New Jersey Natural Gas, through BlueClaws Charities, will hand out four scholarships, each worth $500 to four different Hispanic high school seniors in Ocean or Monmouth Counties to be used as part of a continuation of their education.

“We are grateful to once again partner with New Jersey Natural Gas and award scholarships to four deserving high school seniors,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities.

“We received great support and interest in this process last year and we are excited to help four deserving students continue their education.”

“Our company is committed to helping build a culture where all people are treated with dignity and respected for their unique, individual perspectives,” said Maria Diaz, director of Diversity,

The application requires a one-page essay on the student’s background, goals for the future and how the scholarship would help them achieve their goals. Applicants are also required to share a letter(s) of recommendation from a teacher, coach counselor, or member of the community. Applicants will be judged on both academic effort and character. Four winners will be selected, two male and two female Hispanic high school seniors from Monmouth & Ocean Counties. Winners will be honored on the field before the Medusas de Jersey Shore game on August 15 in a special ceremony with representatives from BlueClaws Charities and New Jersey Natural Gas.

All scholarship applications are due by June 17.

The BlueClaws will become the Medusas de Jersey Shore on two more occasions this year: May 31 and August 15. At these games, the BlueClaws wear special jerseys to become the Medusas de Jersey Shore. There are also food and drink specials, music, and the team celebrates the best of Hispanic culture and heritage.

White Sands Beach Fees

BERKELEY – Grab your beach badges for White Sands Beach. A daily pass is $13 per day, including weekends and holidays. Weekly pass is $50. Seasonal pass is $70 effective June 1. Seniors 65 and older are

$15 per season, $20 for a lifetime photo ID (only available through May 31).

Beach badges may be picked up at the Recreation Center, 630 Atlantic City Boulevard, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Photo courtesy BlueClaws

June 1, 2024,

For Sale

FOR SALE: Single Crypt (Wall)East Chapel mausoleum - burial plot. Ocean County Memorial Park, Toms River, NJ. Owner moved. $6,499.00. Call 954-444-9646. (24)

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 Vintage Old ClothingAny condition. T-shirts, sports sweatshirts, denim, workwear, carhartt, college, military, camoflauge, jackets. Call Dave 732-281-4508. CASH. (27)

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)

Cedar Glen West is an active adult community seeking a full time administrative assistant to join our team. Person must have a minimum of 3 years of experience, have excellent customer service, organizational & letter writing skills and proficient in Excel, Outlook and Word. Competitive wages, health care benefits and 401k plan offered. Contact William Speichert at 732-657-5525 or e-mail williams@cedarglenwest.net. (26)

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Services Services Services Help Wanted

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)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for full time certified aide for morning shift. Must have weekend availability. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for Full time certified aides for both evening and overnight shifts. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for a Full-time Maintenance worker. Pay starts at $18 an hour. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for a part-time receptionist for afternoons and weekends. Pay starts at $15.13 an hour. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

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)

Uras Monuments - Seeks a parttime sales associate in our Toms River location. Qualified candidates must perform basic office duties and have excellent communication skills including answering phones and in store customer service. Hours are 2 or 3 weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and every other Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Email resume to urasmonuments finance@gmail.com. (27)

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)

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)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13VH10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! Servicing Toms River, Lakehurst, Manchester, Whiting, Jackson, New Egypt, Plumstead Beachwood, Bayville, Berkeley. (47)

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

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

Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (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. (25)

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)

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)

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 732-8505060. NJ Lic # 13VH11804800. (17)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Also offering typing services. 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)

Experienced 24/5 Caregiver/Companion Available - For your Elderly loved ones. Help w/ hygiene, med reminders, meal preps, errands, laundry, housekeeping. 732-867-6686 (25)

CHEAP PAINTING

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONSAll 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

(t/n)

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

V.F.W. Post 10185 News

By Past Post Commander James Egan

BERKELEY - The next meeting of Silver/ Holiday V.F.W. Post 10185 will be held on Thursday, June 6 at 1 p.m. at the Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse, 145 Westbrook Drive. We hold our meetings on the first Thursday of every month. We meet in the daytime, so you do not have to drive at night.

To join our post, just bring a copy of your Discharge (DD-214) to our meeting and you’ll receive a hardy welcome and refreshments before the meeting. If you need a ride to the meeting or want more information without any obligation call Past Post Commander James Egan at 732-644-2219.

Remember if you hear of any Post member passing away or being in the hospital, call any officer and let him know.

Thursday, June 6 is D-Day.

Friday, June 14 is Flag Day.

Sunday, June 16 is Father’s Day.

Thursday, June 20, summer begins.

The VFW would like you to drop your old and faded flags off at either H. C. S. Clubhouse (Main Building), S. R. P. W., S. R. P. N., S. R. P. E., S. R. P. Westerly, and Holiday City Berkeley Clubhouses.

God bless America and God bless our troops. Fly the flag on Memorial Day and every day, weather permitting.

Discussion, Signing Of New Book: “Len Lomell: D - Day Hero”

By Chris Lundy

TOMS

RIVER

- New York Times best selling author Steven Gillon will be speaking about local World War II hero Leonard “Bud” Lomell, at the George P Vandermeer American Legion Post 129, 2125 Church Road, Toms River at 11:30 a.m. on June 1.

The talk will be followed by a signaing of his book “Len Lomell: D - Day Hero.” The book will be for sale at the event for $13.99.

A military display featuring this heavily

decorated Toms River resident will also be at the post.

Author and historian Stephen Ambrose wrote that Lomell was the second most important person for the success of the D- Day Invasion after General Eisenhower. There is no charge for this event. To reserve a spot email oceancountyhistory.programs@ gmail.com or call Jeff Schenker at 609-339-9134 with any questions.

Step Up for The Arc Walk & 5K Raises $80,000 For Individuals With Disabilities

OCEAN COUNTY – The Arc, Ocean County Chapter hosted their 22nd Annual Step Up for The Arc Walk and Inaugural 5K Race on Saturday, May 18 at the Jer-

sey Shore BlueClaws with 600 registered participants raising over $80,000 to benefit programs and support services for people with disabilities.

Step Up for The Arc is an inclusive community event to raise awareness and acceptance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with

100% of the proceeds supporting The Arc of Ocean County’s residential, vocational, and family support services.

“This is our most successful Step Up for The Arc event,” said Laura Williams, Executive Director. “We have more community sponsors, walk teams, runners, and volunteers than ever before. We couldn’t be more grateful for the support of Ocean County!”

The Arc teams are raising funds for wish list items special to their programs. The Silverton Superstars are planning a trip to Disney World for the group home and Journeys and Discovery Friends want new Chromebooks for their day program.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter supports 1,000 individuals with disabilities and their families with housing, job training, employment supports, transition services, transportation, support coordination, clinical supports and services, and recreation.

To donate to the 2024 Step Up for The Arc Walk and 5K please visit arcocean. org and follow us on social media @ thearcoceancounty to see how your dollars make a difference.

Summer Picnic Party

BERKELEY – Commissioner Virginia E. Haines announces that the Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be hosting their Summer Picnic Party at John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park, located at 399 Brennan Concourse, Berkeley Township on June 27 from 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and watch the sunset. Take part in arts & crafts, cornhole, giant twister, and more! Feel free to cool off at the free spray park. Food trucks will be available to satisfy your taste buds, as well as free s’mores and a campfire by the shoreline. Live music and entertainment will be provided by the Strictly 60s and Ken the Magician. Join at this fun filled event to kick off the start to Summer!

photo oF the WeeK

“Now there’s something you don’t see every day.” This pic was snapped by Micromedia’s Vice President Jason Allentoff, who thought he had snapped! While driving home from the office, he noticed something that can only be described as bizarre. On Route 539 at the Lacey-Barnegat border, a utility pole was wearing a bra. Yeah, this is one for the books. We have no idea how it got there, but we just had to share it with you as you don’t normally see utility poles wearing undergarments. Regardless, the pole has plenty of support. Ok, we are done. Submit your Jersey Shore pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize.

Full Send Fest

BAYVILLE – Full Send Family presents Full Send Fest on August 31 from 12 to 6 p.m. at Robert J. Miller Airpark located at 901 Route 530 Berkeley Township. Charity Car Show extravaganza to honor and remember our fallen brothers Mike Stull, Dion Cardell and Brian Blaszka. Top 30 overall. 12 specialty categories.

Power Wheels Division. DJ/MC. Vendors. Three-tier gift auction. 50/50 raffles. Cornhole tournament. Food Trucks. Children’s activities and so much more. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or vendor, send a message to Mandi at 732810-1828. For more information, join the Facebook group: Full Send Fesy.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Alpha __ Alpha sorority

Lubricated 16 Half-__: rhyming coffee order 17 Closing line after presenting an argument 19 Elsie the Cow’s dairy brand

“Questions welcome” 22 Ireland, to the Irish

“The Dancing Class” painter Edgar

Cedar Rapids state

Nebula Award genre

One way to get caught

Silky fabrics

Island home of the Hana Highway

North American evergreen

Say “I do” without the

Quaint “once”

__ and proper

Hide-and-seek hide-

59 Fourth of July noisemaker ... and the function of the black squares in lines 3, 6, and 10

“That hurt!”

Future DAs’ exams

Member-owned grocery stores

Actress Thurman

Eclectic online di-

Arizona’s __ National

69 __-Mex cuisine Down 1 “This Is Us” TV network 2 Coffee bean variety

“Pursue your dream!” 4 Slide on an icy road 5 Was concerned

6 First game of the season 7 Emotional highs

8 Body ink, for short 9 Begin to take effect, as medicine 10 Dessert menu phrase 11 Mended for a second time 12 Citrus drink suffix 15 Yiddish laments 18 Songs made by mixing two songs 20 Mortgage adjustment, for short

Twisty letter 24 Some spring babies 25 Driver at the Oscars

Commercials

29 Lead-in to “gram” in social media 31 Ideological gap in Congress 33 Bagel spread 37 Nadal of tennis, familiarly 38 Actor Vigoda 39 Plucky member of an orchestra? 40 Losing candidate 43 European peaks

44 Left in a big hurry

45 Perfect example

46 Rep.’s opponent 48 Tampa Bay city, familiarly

49 __ with: take into consideration

53 Was out

56 Some HP products

58 “In that neighborhood” phrase 59 Wintertime bug

60 Do something 61 Dove sound

63 Number on older business cards

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Your creative muse could be close by your side. Don’t just hope for someone to praise your ideas and creations, instead focus on self-validation. You might not enjoy other people’s company as much as you anticipated.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : A challenging event could lead to a positive outcome. Resist the temptation to point a finger towards someone else if a costly mistake is made. Consider putting major purchases on the back burner for a few days.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Be mindful of any subtle ethical questions that might need to be addressed before making a move or starting anything new. Optimism and fairness could be in short supply so spread love and light into the world.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Something may remind you that money is not everything and that it’s the thought that truly counts. You may have an opportunity to grow closer to loved ones or discover someone with a similar outlook on life.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Remain cautious of being either overly confident or too trusting. This may not be the time to put your trust in something that is not proven. Instead, consider focusing your attention on aspects of life that you can control.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It’s important to prioritize your happiness as satisfying others may be a rare occurrence. Your good intentions may not always be understood. Don’t let the fear of possible criticism keep you from being your authentic self.

FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 1 - JUNE 7

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Focus and discipline are necessary for success but it’s also important to embrace opportunities for leisure. Although you strive to make things simple and efficient, it could sometimes be more enjoyable if they were more complex.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Take the opportunity to steer the wheel of your life. You may find it easy to approach a tiresome situation with good humor and grace. Consider waiting to make a major purchase or change an important plan.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

You may find yourself out of alignment with someone. Your mood could soon change so consider avoiding any confrontations. Seemingly-unreasonable rules you are required to comply with may cause resentment.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Look for the good in every person or situation. Shifting your focus to kindness and positivity can make a significant difference. Don’t engage if you find yourself amongst people who might have an appetite for gossip.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) :

Address financial obligations in a timely fashion. You may gravitate towards big price tag items to keep up with others but always prioritize quality. Consider taking your time to sign any important contracts.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): It may not be necessary to go to extremes to get someone’s attention. You may use grace and flexibility to demonstrate your competence to those who might be skeptical. Organization could alleviate frustration.

THESE QUICK-COOKING STEAKS BRING COMFORT AND A TASTY DOSE OF NOSTALGIA

By America’s Test Kitchen

MINUTE STEAKS WITH MUSHROOM GRAVY