2024-09-07 - The Manchester Times

MANCHESTER e

Manchester Schools Reopen For New School Year

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

The new school year has begun but there was some fanfare and fun involved in preparing for the fi rst day of school.

Several orientation events have taken place along with student recognition presentations and celebrations to get things started.

Ridgeway Elementary School students and

courtesy Manchester Schools

Two Ridgeway Elementary School students enjoy some popcorn during a recent orientation program held which introduced Sarah Thiffault as the school’s new principal. (Below) Thirty-five Advanced Placement (AP) students were recently recognized during the latest Manchester Board of Education meeting.

Teens

Launch Operation Warmth To Aid Homeless

By Stephanie Faughnan

HOWELL – Two local high school seniors readily admit they’ve grown up in comfortable suburban homes, never having to worry about access to heat and hot water. But as Cory Reavis and Tristen Bennett returned to school this fall, they’re not just focused on their studies and college applications. Instead, they’re resurrecting a project they started as members of the Howell

Police Athletic League during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their initiative, Operation Warmth: Helping the Homeless Prepare for Winter, aims to raise funds and provide essentials to ensure the unhoused in Monmouth and Ocean counties can survive the winter months.

Cory, 17, and Tristen, 18, have remained best friends since they fi rst

(Warmth - See Page 4)

their families came out before the fi rst day of school to meet their new principal, Sarah Thiffault, during a school orientation event.

The program proved that popcorn and principals could be a perfect match for the large crowd that came out and where students got to know Thiffault. They even learned what her favorite holiday was, her favorite color, her favorite sports team, and her love for chocolate ice cream.

Students lined up for a Ridgeway Dolphin temporary tattoo, and spend time together. It was an afternoon filled with laughter they prepared to return to school.

Manchester Township High School freshman tours were also conducted by current student leaders and 35 Advanced Placement students were recognized during the latest Manchester Board of

(School - See Page 7)

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER – School Superintendent

Diane Pedroza is ready for the new school year. Schools reopened earlier this week and a lot of work went into making that return as smooth as possible.

Pedroza, who spent most of the last school year as the district’s “interim” superintendent, began her permanent position in that role on July 1. She spoke with The Manchester Times recently about the challenges ahead and the excitement that she has seen among the district’s staff and students as well.

“Transitioning to being superintendent has been busy but it has been extremely rewarding. I’ve been focusing on leadership overall and delving into the strategic plan and community engagement,” Pedroza said.

She had previously served as director of curriculum in the district, a role she also served in while being the interim school superintendent but the district has a new curriculum director, Tracey Raimondo. “I’m always available for anything she needs as this is a new position for her. My style is collaborative and it really has been very seamless,” the superintendent added.

Pedroza noted that the district also added Jill Moore as director of Special Services. “Both Jill and Tracey have a wealth of knowledge and extensive experience, great instincts and good judgement and are extremely professional and very community driven and it is awesome to have people moving in the same direction as I am.”

“We are all student centered. We are focusing on how we can bring the community together, what we can do for our students and our staff and for me that is a real positive. We are extremely fortunate that our teams are focused on curriculum alignment and focusing on staff development, facility readiness but of course just like everybody else looking for new teachers and have welcomed a number of new educators to the district,” she added.

Pedroza said, “we filled some key positions across the district and we of course still need

Photos

(Above)

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Cory Reavis and Tristen Bennett’s Operation Warmth aims to help those living out in the cold.

Superintendent:

Continued From Page 1

bus drivers. We have reassigned some of our staff to new roles within the district. We are transitioning some reading coaches - some of whom were placed back in the classroom - and we had an interventionist coach and our goal has been that staff is working with kids.”

“Some of those positions that were a little bit more procedural,” she said. “We always wish the best when colleagues leave. We wish them well because you have some retirees and we have some people who have been promoted. We know our new staff will contribute just as our former staff did.”

As far as new student schedules for this

Warmth:

Continued From Page 1

met in the second grade. Although they both still live in Howell, Corey and Tristen attend different high schools as part of the Freehold Regional High School District’s magnet programs. Cory is a student in Freehold Boro School’s Computer Science program, with hopes of attending Georgia Tech, while Tristen is enrolled in the Business Administration program at Marlboro High School, aspiring to study at New York University.

Both young men have grown up in families that stressed the importance of community

new school year, Pedroza commented, “the middle school has revised their schedule. There was a change under the previous superintendent at the middle school. We had a committee come together that once again was involved with administration and a lot of teachers and they spoke about the pros and concerns they had with the schedule.”

The superintendent explained, “we made some revisions and the new schedule will include block for ELA (English Language Arts) and for math and will reduce the average class size. A big benefit of the schedule is that we are going to offer French for 8th grade students. We had done that years ago. When I worked at the middle school years ago, we had a full time French teacher there. We will

service. When he was a child growing up, Cory was instructed to divide his allowance into three parts – one for savings, one for giving to others, and the last to spend on things he wanted. He said that he’s watched his mom constantly give back to the community.

Tristen said that his mother also emphasized how critical it was to be a person for others. She phrased it as “men and women for others” as something engrained in her heart. Tristen has also witnessed his mother live by her favorite mantra.

The idea for Operation Warmth was born from a previous initiative Cory and Tristen led in January through March 2021, a time

offer French as another world language and offer drama, music, art, food and consumer science, STEM, band and gifted and talented to the entire student population.”

“There will be some choice and some rotation that will allow for children to have some exposure to a lot more of those elective type courses,” she added.

Pedroza noted another change for the new school year, “Pre-school has been fairly new for us. We do have a new supervisor of early childhood (Michelle Nichol) who was our elementary supervisor then we moved her to the middle school supervisor and we are now moving her back to her wheelhouse and that is elementary school education.”

“Michelle was a reading specialist and

when the pandemic’s impact was particularly severe. The two learned of the plight of the homeless as participants in Howell’s Police Athletic League (PAL).

Corey and Tristen have actively participated in Howell’s PAL for several years. Tristen currently serves as the vice president of the group’s youth leadership. Both young men credit retired Howell Police Sgt. Chris Hill, the PAL’s president and CEO, and Jeffrey Mayfield, a retired Howell Police captain, for opening their eyes to the issue of homelessness and providing guidance on how they could help.

In just three short months in 2021, Operation Warmth raised over $1,700 in

her background is teaching those early grades. She was a kindergarten teacher for a period of time. She has been instrumental in writing curriculum and has been working with the pre-school team preparing the classrooms and getting the curriculum ready for pre-school students,” Pedroza noted.

“The preschoolers will now follow the same schedule as our K-5 students. That allows us to create some consistency and routine for families. So, while it may lengthen the day for our preschoolers slightly it will allow them to have enhanced learning opportunities, social and cognitive development and so we are really excited about this and we will continue to nurture curiosity, creativity and critical thinking,” she added.

donations.

Back then, Cory and Tristen delivered vital supplies to a homeless encampment behind the Shop Rite in Neptune. They admit they were stunned when they saw the dire living conditions of at least a dozen older people without a roof over their heads.

“They’re literally living in the woods,” Cory explained. “It’s like they’re camping - but that’s their whole life right there.”

“I remember one guy who had just come back from the hospital with a huge gash on him,” added Tristen. “It was really tough to see people living in those conditions.”

A recent court decision directed at the (Warmth - See Page 5)

Warmth:

Continued From Page 4

occupants of the Neptune encampment orders them to abandon the site no later than the end of October. Authorities are working with outside organizations in hopes of fi nding them homes.

Meanwhile, Mayfield has identified other small camps where the unhoused live without essentials. Operation Warmth has committed to helping those left behind in Neptune and others in Barnegat, Manchester, and South Toms River.

“I do this as a Christian ministry,” shared Mayfield, an elder in the Forked River Baptist Church. “I’ve been doing this for 20 years as an outreach to share the gospel of Jesus.”

“The camps change, and there’s always a new face that comes in from week to week,” Mayfield added. “Jesus tells us that the poor will always be among us. So, there will always be a place to help these people.”

While Mayfield acknowledged that some of the unhoused have mental health or addiction issues, he turned around accusations that his mission “enables” others. Not only does he feel that everyone is entitled to assistance, but the retired police captain has also seen that enabling has meant that some have gone from homeless and addicted to recovered and gainfully employed. Many in the community have gone out of their way to join Mayfield in his work. By way of example, Mayfield said that the German Butcher in Forked River donates a considerable amount of food to feed those

in need. A couple of women from Forked River Baptist Church cook between 75-100 meals a week based on the local butcher’s donations.

Operation Warmth 2024

One of the most urgent needs for people experiencing homelessness, especially as the weather turns colder, is propane. Mayfield was able to establish an account with Seaboard Welding Supply in Ocean Township to secure a steady supply. While most propane is purchased through donations, Mayfield has occasionally used his funds to ensure it’s always available.

The propane is used with Little Buddy heaters, which can provide around 100 hours of heat from a single 20-pound tank when set on low.

“Our main goal is to raise enough money to fund an account to provide enough propane for the whole winter,” shared Tristen. “So, the people who are unhoused might not have to ration, because that’s typically what happens. There’s not enough to go around, and they have to use what they have sparingly.”

Corey added that with the help of PAL and community members, Operation Warmth is also hoping to gain donations through an Amazon Wishlist so that the unhoused will have the essentials they need for the winter. The Wishlist can be accessed here: amazon.com/registries/gl/ guest-view/22231G54RNESJ

Zero-degree grade sleeping bags and waterproof tents with an eight-person capacity are in great need, as are gloves, socks, and thermal underwear, and baby

wipes. Donations can also be dropped off at the Reavis residence, located at 3 Hearth Court in Howell.

Those who would like to make cash donations for propane can do so by scanning the Venmo code or searching for Corey Reavis @operation warmth to transfer funds.: Cash and check donations will be used to purchase propane; checks can be made out to Cory Reavis and mailed to 3 Hearth Court, Howell NJ 07731

According to Tristen, Hill has agreed to redirect dues routinely collected by PAL over the next few months. The money will be deposited in an account set up to purchase propane.

Anything collected in excess of the project

needs for the identified communities will be passed on to Destiny’s Bridge run by Minister Steve Brigham. A homelessness advocate for decades, Brigham has said that approximately 30 people remain in the camp he organized in Winding River Park in Toms River.

Operation Warmth hopes to make all fi nal distributions by Thanksgiving weekend. The two young men also hope to leave a blueprint of the work they’ve done for the next group of leaders within PAL.

To contact Tristen Bennett or Cory Reavis regarding Operation Warmth: Helping the Homeless Prepare for Winter, emails can be submitted to OperationWarmthNJ@ gmail.com.

Photo courtesy Operation Warmth

Some of the donations from Operation Warmth in 2021.

School:

Continued From Page 1

Education meeting noting their outstanding achievement.

Three MTHS Student Government Association students completed the New Jersey Association of Student Councils’ Summer Leadership Conference. Students Katherine Estevenall, Emily Johnson, and Jaiden Barber attended the three-day conference in Trenton, with hundreds of other student leaders from across the state. Together, they worked on leadership skills to bring back to their high school.

The school district also welcomed Michelle Nichol as the Supervisor of Early Childhood Education. Nichol has devoted her entire 22-year career to the district and takes great pride in the district’s achievements and commitment to exceeding expectations for staff and students.

Her professional journey has encompassed a career focused on early childhood education, starting with teaching kindergarten, fi rst, and second grade at both Whiting Elementary and Manchester Township Elementary schools.

Following her teaching experiences, she took on the role of K-5 Literacy Coach for Ridgeway and Whiting schools and for the past nine years, has served as a Supervisor of Instruction for the Manchester Township School District, spending eight years at the elementary level and one year at the middle school.

Before the school district received its Preschool Expansion Aid (PEA) funding in

2022, two of the district’s schools housed classrooms for preschoolers with disabilities, while one school had an integrated general education and special education program.

As the Curriculum and Instruction Supervisor, Nichol supervised those preschool programs, ensuring appropriate supports were in place, selecting instructional materials, and coordinating intervention services to meet the diverse needs of our early learners.

The goal of her new role as the MTSD Supervisor of Early Childhood Education is to assist in the implementation, supervision, and evaluation of curriculum for all early childhood teaching staff Pre-K through fifth grade.

“Having an extensive amount of experience at the elementary level, I am excited to work with our administrators, teachers, and staff to create opportunities for our students in our PreK-5 buildings that focus on developmentally appropriate foundational skills and connect them to the standards outlined by the New Jersey Department of Education,” Nichol said.

She added that her intention was to “uphold the outstanding preschool program that has been established in our district. Additionally, I aim to enhance the link between preschool and elementary education in all three of our schools, ensuring that every teacher has the essential resources to provide our students with the foundational skills required for their success and growth.”

“Ultimately, my goal is to foster a comprehensive education that nurtures the whole child,” she added.

119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst Sherry DeGraff, Mgr. NJ Lic. No.3921 • (732) 657-7868

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

Bill Would Reinstate Sales Tax Holiday For School Supplies

Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th

Legislative District

TRENTON - Senator Carmen Amato (R-9) announced his intention to introduce legislation that would reinstate the annual back-

From The Desk Of

Congressman

to-school sales tax holiday. The sales tax holiday was recently repealed as part of the state budget negotiations.

“Reinstating the annual back-to-school sales tax holiday is a common-sense proposal that eases the financial burden of purchasing school supplies,” said Sen. Amato. “The misguided decision to strip New Jerseyans of this critical re-

lief has only made it harder to provide for their children’s education. At a time when household budgets are being stretched thin, this tax holiday would provide meaningful relief to families and educators.”

Senator Amato’s bill would reinstate the repealed sales tax holiday and occur during the ten-day period leading up to and including Labor Day. Under the bill the following items would be exempt from the sales tax:

• Computers with a sales price of less than

$3,000 per item;

• School computer supplies with a sales price of less than $1,000 per item;

• School and art supplies;

• School instructional materials; and

• Sport or recreational equipment

You can read a draft of this legislation online.

To speak with Sen. Amato, contact Chris Sivel, SRO Deputy Communications Director at csivel@njleg.org.

Politicians Warn About Electrical Wires

Chris Smith

MANASQUAN - At a community education meeting in Manasquan, Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) and a host of experts and public officials informed local residents about the dangers of high-powered transmission cables that are slated to make landfall in Sea Girt and continue through Manasquan, Wall, and Howell as part of the planned Atlantic Shores South offshore wind project.

“The reckless push by the Biden and

Murphy Administrations to stand-up expensive and expansive industrial wind farms in size and scope never seen before - without real review, examination, or most importantly, local input - is appalling,” said Smith.

“We know that without a change in plans, the communities of Sea Girt, Wall, Howell and Manasquan - who are being forced to host the huge cables coming off the wind turbines - will be the next victims,” said Smith, who noted the cables would transmit energy from 195 offshore wind turbines off Atlantic City.

The event was organized by Stop the High-Risk Power Cables, a local group of

residents working to raise awareness about the dangerous cables. Although originally planned to be an in-person meeting, the event had to be moved largely online after drawing overwhelming interest from members of the local community, far exceeding venue capacity.

“We can’t find an example anywhere in the world where this much power is landing on a beach and running within 15-20 yards of homes, schools and recreation areas,” said Kimberly Paterson, one of the founding members of StopTheHighRiskPowerCables.

org. “The regulatory agencies’ and developers’ documents acknowledge there is a risk but they are charging ahead anyway. Residents should not be expected to be guinea pigs in New Jersey’s high-risk experiment.”

In addition to Smith, a wide-range of

experts and local officials also presented at the meeting, including Manasquan Mayor Michael Mangan; Sea Girt Mayor Donald Fetzer; Assemblyman Paul Kanitra; Mike Dean from Save the East Coast; Cindy Zipf from Clean Ocean Action; and Keith Moore from Defend Brigantine Beach.

“The work needed on these projectswhich could last for years and will inevitably require ongoing maintenance - will indefi nitely turn neighborhoods into hazardous construction zones,” said Smith, who noted that residential roads would have to be torn up to place trenches for the powerlines, running past schools, homes, small businesses and parks.

“The impact on local landscapes - personal, public and commercial properties - is (Government - See Page 23)

that of Micromedia Publications. We cannot vouch for the accuracy of information that these politicians are providing, and readers are encouraged to keep an open mind and consider multiple sources.

Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:10-16*, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing and the issuance of a New Jersey certi cation of ownership for, Make Essex, Year 1926, VIN/Hull identi cation Number 758069. Objections, if any, should be made in writing, immediately in writing to the Cheif Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

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

New Supervisor Of Early Childhood Education Welcomed

MANCHESTER – This summer the Manchester Township School District (MTSD) welcomed Michelle Nichol as the Supervisor of Early Childhood Education! Nichol has devoted her entire 22-year career to the Manchester Township School District. She takes great pride in the district’s achievements and commitment to exceeding expectations for staff and students. Her professional journey has encompassed a career focused on early childhood education, starting with teaching kindergarten, fi rst, and second grade at both Whiting Elementary and Manchester Township Elementary schools. Following her teaching experiences, Nichol took on the role of K-5 Literacy Coach for Ridgeway and Whiting schools. For the past nine years, she has served as a Supervisor of Instruction for the Manchester Township School District, spending eight years at the elementary level and one year at the middle school.

Prior to the Manchester Township School District receiving Preschool Expansion Aid (PEA) funding in 2022, two of the district’s schools housed preschool disabilities classrooms, with one school having an integrated general education and special education program. As the Curriculum and Instruction Supervisor, Nichol supervised those preschool programs, ensuring appropriate supports were in place, selecting instructional materials, and coordinating intervention services to meet the diverse needs of our early learners. The goal of Nichol’s new role as the MTSD Super-

visor of Early Childhood Education is to assist in the implementation, supervision, and evaluation of curriculum for all early childhood teaching staff Pre-K through fifth grade. The substantial and dedicated career experience that Nichol brings forth from her prior roles makes it a seamless transition into her new position as the Supervisor of Early Childhood Education.

“Having an extensive amount of experience at the elementary level, I am excited to work with our administrators, teachers, and staff to create opportunities for our students in our PreK-5 buildings that focus on developmentally appropriate foundational skills and connect them to the standards outlined by the NJDOE,” said Michelle Nichol, Supervisor of Early Childhood Education. “My goal is to uphold the outstanding preschool program that has been established in our district. Additionally, I aim to enhance the link between preschool and elementary education in all three of our schools, ensuring that every teacher has the essential resources to provide our students with the foundational skills required for their success and growth. Ultimately, my goal is to foster a comprehensive education that nurtures the whole child.”

In addition to being devoted to her career and the Manchester community, Nichol cherishes her family-oriented lifestyle as a proud wife and mother of a daughter and a son. She fi nds joy in beach outings, unwinding by the pool, and creating lasting memories with friends and family.

Crestwood Village One Annual Indoor Flea Market

WHITING – Crestwood Village One, located at 92 Fairway Lane Whiting, will be hosting their Annual Indoor Flea Market on September 28 from 9

Crestwood Art Guild Sip & Paint

WHITING – Crestwood Art Guild is sponsoring a Sip & Paint on September 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Crestwood Village 5, 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Bring your own wine for charity. Cost is $20 (no refund unless class is cancelled). Respond by September 13. Tickets on sale: Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Art Guild Room. For more information. Call Barbara at 732-506-1682.

a.m. to 1 p.m. Refreshments, 50/50, bargains too numerous to mention. Special “let’s make a deal table.” Bring all your friends!

DAY TRIPS

SEPT 27 – DANIEL

Lunch at Shady Maple, Center Orchestra seat.

SEPT 28 – NEW YORK YANKEES VS PITTSBURGH PIRATES

OCT 3 – ONE SLIGHT HITCH

Comedy Play written by Lewis Black, Includes Lunch.

OCT 14 – DAY IN AMISH LANCASTER

Lunch at Shady Maple, Bird n Hand Bakery, Kitchen Kettle.

OCT 24 – RHINESTONE COWGIRLS

Includes $25 Slot Play, $20 Food Voucher.

NOV 5 – RESORTS CASINO AC FOR THE DAY

Includes $20 Slot Play Broadway.

NOV 30 – CHRISTMAS AT THE PLAYHOUSE ‘24

Includes Plated Lunch and Legendary Dessert Buffet.

DEC 4 – NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDENS & HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW

Includes admission and lunch on Aruther Ave.

DEC 6 – RADIO CITY HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

Lunch in Union City, Orchestra ticket & Free Time in Radio City after show.

DEC 10 – JOY TO THE WORLD

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Orchestra seat at American Music Theatre.

DEC 18 – WIND CREEK CASINO

Includes $30 slot play.

$169/pp

$149/pp

$130/pp

$89/pp

$103/pp

$40/pp

$120/pp

$149/pp

$229/pp

$134/pp

$45/pp

BROADWAY SHOWS – INCLUDE LUNCH BEFORE SHOW & ORCHESTRA SEAT

OCT 23 – THE OUTSIDERS MUSICAL: 2024 TONY AWARDS WINNER OF BEST MUSICAL

OCT 23 – OUR TOWN: MUSICAL

NOV 6 – SUNSET BLVD

NOV 6 – MJ MUSICAL

NOV 16 – A WONDERFUL WORLD: LOUIS ARMSTRONG MUSICAL

DEC 7 – AUDRA GYPSY: MUSICAL

MULTI-DAY TRIPS

SEPT 29-OCT 1 – 3 DAY HAMPTONS RICH AND FAMOU$ TOUR

OCT 21-22 – 2 DAY HERSHEY LANCASTER ADVENTURE

DEC 8-10 – 3 DAY CHRISTMAS ON THE POTOMAC

DEC 15-19 – 5 DAY BILTMORE ESTATE AT CHRISTMAS

DEC 17-19 – 3 DAY LANCASTER HOLIDAY ADVENTURE

$269/pp

$249/pp

$239/pp

$264/pp

$289/pp

$289/pp

$749/pp Dbl. Occ.

$399/pp Dbl. Occ.

$729/pp Dbl. Occ.

$1098/pp Dbl Occ.

$729/pp Dbl. Occ.

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS ON TRIPS

Lakehurst Fire Department Welcome New Fire ghters

LAKEHURST – Congratulations to the newest fi refighters of Lakehurst Volunteer Fire company.

Members attended The Toms River Fire Academy graduation to celebrate four of their members that underwent six months of training

New Venue

to learn what it takes to become a firefighter. Over 360 hours of training to volunteer for their community and try and make it a safer place. Congratulations to the newest fi refighters Theresa Davis, Aiden James, Josh DiGianni and Maxwell Sanders.

Announced

For St. Stephen’s Metro Collegiate Challenge

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Whiting, NJ Bowling Ministry announces a new location for the St. Stephen’s Metro Collegiate Challenge. The new venue is at Playdrome Lanes in Toms River on October 19 with a start time of 10 a.m.

Format of the tournament is six regular team games followed by five team baker games. They are awarding trophies for 1st,

2nd & 3rd place winning team finishers and medals for individual 1st, 2nd & 3rd place High Game & High Series during games 1-6. Registration and check in is at 9 a.m. For further information call Bill Bodine, Bowling Ministry Chairman & Tournament Director at 848-210-4206, St. Stephen’s Parish Office at 732-350-2121 or Playdrome Lanes at 732-349-5345. You can also email to: wbodine3@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy Lakehurst Fire Department

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Student Government Association Leadership Conference

MANCHESTER – Congratulations to the three Manchester Township High School (MTHS) Student Government Association (SGA) students who completed the New Jersey Association of Student Councils’ (NJASC) Summer Leadership Conference! Manchester’s Katherine Estevenall, Emily Johnson, and Jaiden Barber attended the

three-day conference in Trenton, with hundreds of other student leaders from across the state. Together it is there where they discover, develop, and refi ne important life and leadership skills to bring back to their high school as student leaders. Congratulations to each of them on this accomplishment!

Boscov Days Passes Available At Crestwood Village 6

WHITING – Passes will be available starting September 9 at the clubhouse from 10 to 11 a.m. They are $5 each and discounts

of up to 25% both in store and online for sale on October 22 all day. Call Adrianne 201-294-0608 for other times.

news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Buildings And Grounds Crew Honored

Rob

and

were proud to recognize the dedicated Buildings and Grounds crew who keep all of the public spaces in pristine condition! It’s important that we can take pride in these spaces utilized by our employees and community on a daily basis, so thank you to Public Works Director Al Yodakis, General Foreman Donald Thomas, and all of the Buildings and Grounds staff for your tireless efforts.

Photo courtesy Manchester Township

The Proclamation, accepted by General Foreman Thomas on behalf of his staff, reads, in part, “their dedication and hard work are vital to the well-being of our community, and we honor their ongoing commitment to excellence.”

From landscaping, maintenance, repairs, and so much more, the Buildings and Grounds crew plays a vital role in making Manchester Township a safe and welcoming place for all!

Zumba Classes

Clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road, Manchester. All villages are welcome. Cost is $5. For more information, call 609-405-3234. Send

WHITIING – Crestwood Village 6 announces Zumba with Ashley every Thursday afternoon from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Deerfield

MANCHESTER – On August 26, Mayor

Arace

the Township Council

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Freshman Tours At High School

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township High School (MTHS) Class of 2025 was provided tours of the school by MTHS school leaders, National Honor Society (NHS) members, and Student Government Association (SGA) members!

These students volunteered their time to tour the Class of 2025 around the building, answer questions from incoming freshmen and their families, provide insight and advice ahead of the start of the school year, and excitedly introduce Principal Adams!

‘Drink In’ Ireland’s Tea Traditions

MANCHESTER– In Ireland, tea is a way of life, brewed briskly and consumed heartily daytime and nighttime. Tea and food historian Judith Krall-Russo will set the table for “Ireland – Tea, Food and Folklore” at the Ocean County Library Manchester Branch, 2 p.m. on September 16.

With wit, charm and depth, Judith will shed light on Irish tea habits, favorite foods, and myths and legends that surround this enchanted island.

A lifetime epicure, Judith received Tea

Specialist certifi cations from The Tea School, Pomfret, Connecticut, and New York’s Specialty Tea Institute. She offers programs about New Jersey foods and agriculture, historical discussions of global food, drink and holiday customs, and explorations of life in the Edwardian and Victorian eras.

Register at tinyurl.com/OclMATea for this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive, call 732)-657-7600 or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Crestwood Village Six Halloween Dance O Party

WHITING – Crestwood Village Six Halloween Dance Off Party will be on October 19 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Crestwood Village Six Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Music by DJ Billy Phillips. Tickets are $10 for CV6 Yearly Members and $12 for non-members. Tickets are sold at the CV6 Deerfield Clubhouse between hours 10 to 11 a.m. on Mondays. Tickets purchased will be reserved tables & seating. Only a limited amount of people per table. It is highly recommended that if you want group seating to purchase tickets

all in one purchase ahead of time to be able to accommodate your group. Last minute request or tickets purchased at door will be assigned seats that are available at that time. There will be no exceptions. It is also recommended that if you are not use to loud music, you should request seating in back of dancehall.

We will be providing snacks, soda, water, tea. coffee and dessert. If you wish to bring finger food you can. 50/50, Raffles and Door Prizes will also be offered. Costume attire is welcomed.

Ladies Auxiliary Of Whiting Fire Company Seeking Volunteers

WHITING – The Ladies Auxiliary of the Whiting Fire Company 33 is looking for volunteers. Join the Ladies in fundraising events, bingo and flea market activities to support the Volunteer Fire Department. Contact Diane Serrano at 732-849-6959 for more information.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Hear e Shore’s Shady Prohibition Past

MANCHESTER – While law-abiding U.S. citizens avoided illegal alcohol 100 years ago, bootleggers and rumrunners kept it flowing, including here at the Jersey Shore. Historian Greg Caggiano will throw light on Shore shenanigans during “Mobsters and Mayhem” at the Ocean County Library Manchester Branch, 7 p.m. on September 16.

Greg will spin sensational stories of local legends, corruption and mob violence with a special focus on the northern Jersey

Shore, where underworld overlords operated in the shelter of sedate towns designed to be religious retreats.

The award-winning Monmouth County historian has served on the Board of Directors of the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society, a town which for a while had the dubious honor of being labeled the “bootlegging capital of the East Coast.” His years of research include interviews with descendants of notables directly involved – on both sides of the law. Greg’s program will also feature an examination of New Jersey’s connection to Vito Genovese, the organized crime kingpin who inspired Mario Puzo’s “The Godfather,” available in print, audio, eBook and digital versions at the Ocean County Library. Register at tinyurl.com/OclMAMobsters for this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive, call 732-657-7600 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Back To School Nights 2024-25

MANCHESTER – Mark your calendars!

September 24, 6 p.m. start time

• Manchester Township Middle SchoolSeptember 19, 6 p.m. start time

• Manchester Township Elementary School

Below you will fi nd information with the preliminary information regarding the MTSD 2024-25 Back to School Nights. Please note that the start times may not apply to all students and detailed information regarding your child’s classroom and program times will be provided by each school in September. We look forward to seeing you there!

• Manchester Township High School -

- September 12, 5 p.m. start time

• Ridgeway Elementary School - September 26, 5 p.m. start time

• Whiting Elementary School - October 3, 5:30 p.m. start time

• Regional Day School - October 10, 6 p.m. start time

Legacy Banking Seminar

WHITING – This seminar grew out of our Legacy Summit in April 2024. Join us and Daniel, the Manager of Citizens Bank, to learn how to deal with the bank with end of life issues.

What do I need to know? The seminar will be

held on September 24 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting. Call the church office at 732-350-2121 from Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to let us know that you are coming to this free seminar.

Blessing Of e Animals

WHITING – Bring your furry, feathered, or scaly loved ones for a day of blessings! The Blessing of The Animals will be hosted on October 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Whiting United Methodist Church; 55 Lacey Road, Whiting.

This is an outdoor event, for the safety of your animals, the use of leashes and/or crates is advisable. Children are welcome to bring their stuffed animal companions for a blessing as well.

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 courtesy Greg Caggiano

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Crestwood Village Six Presents September Dance For e

WHITING – Crestwood Village Six presents September dance for the young at heart on September 21 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Crestwood Village Six Deerfield Hall Clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Music by DJ Johnny. Tickets are $10 for CV6 Yearly Members and $12 for nonmembers. Tickets are sold at the CV6 Deerfield Clubhouse between hours 10 to 11 a.m. on Mondays.

Tickets purchased will be reserved tables & seating. Only a limited amount of people per table. It is highly recom-

Young At Heart

mended that if you want group seating to purchase tickets all in one purchase ahead of time to be able to accommodate your group. Last minute request or tickets purchased at door will be assigned seats that are available at that time. There will be no exceptions. It is also recommended that if you are not use to loud music, you should request seating in back of dancehall.

They will be providing snacks, soda, water, tea. coffee and dessert. If you wish to bring finger food you can. 50/50, Raffles and Door Prizes will also be offered.

Shine At Pines Village Car & Truck Show

WHITING – Shine at Pines Village Car & Truck Show will be on September 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 509 Route 530, Whiting. Registration at 8 a.m. Cost is $10 day of show and includes food! Trophies will be awarded. DJ Music from Jersey Shore Car Shows. Pines Village Open House. Tour

their beautiful remodeled campus. Family friendly event!

Space limited to 100 vehicles - fi rst come - fi rst parked. No holding of spaces - arrive together to park together please! For more information, visit jerseyshorecarshows.com/pines.

Whiting Station 3rd Annual Cra Fair

WHITING – The Residents Club of Whiting Station has announced that it will be holding its 3rd Annual Craft Fair on November 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the ballroom (323 Gardenia Drive, Whiting). There will be numerous vendors selling an array of different crafts, a huge bake sale, chances to win one of many

gift baskets (including some high end items) in the Tricky Tray Sale and a 50/50 drawing (must be present to win at the 3 p.m. drawing for both the gift baskets and 50/50).

Come and enjoy the snack bar with some breakfast and lunch selections as well as, coffee, tea and water.

We can choose from a Nationwide Network of Banks to find the best fit for you. 3-month, 6-month, 12-month and more!

We can also offer US Government backed T-Bills, Notes, and Bonds.

Rates are currently hight, but coming down. Take advantage now! Your neighbors have trusted us with their finances for over 50 years!

Welcomes New Teachers To e District

MANCHESTER – The New Teacher Orientation Program kicked off in the Manchester Township School District (MTSD)! This group of outstanding educators is gearing up to join the excellent team of teaching staff here in Manchester.

The new teachers were welcomed to Manchester warmly, embark on their teaching journey here through informative workshops, and leave the week feeling as supported and appreciated as they are. They welcome them all to the MTSD family!

Holiday Cra And Vendor Fair

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting, will host a Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair on October 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Vendors may acquire a table for $10 by contacting JoAnn at 609-575-1879. A small

door prize will also be donated by each vendor.

The Episcopal Church Women will have the Kitchen Cafe with food, a bake sale, 50/50, door prizes, basket auction. Come and see! All are invited.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

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)

Shepherd Others To Be er Hearing

Are you someone who has experienced the care our practice provides? Have you acknowledged your hearing issues, fought back, and won? If so, you now have the opportunity to assist someone else on their journey to better hearing and whole-body health. Want to be a hero? Here’s how you can shepherd someone into the process and support them along the way:

Start the Conversation - The stigma is real. Begin by having an open and compassionate discussion about hearing health issues. Share your own experiences and the benefits you’ve experienced from addressing your own hearing issues. This can help reduce the stigma and fear often associated with getting treatment (like wearing hearing aids).

Encourage Professional Help - Suggest they schedule an appointment with us. Assure them you know a great hearing care professional and offer to accompany them on their first visit. Your support makes the process less intimidating.

Be Patient and Understanding - Understand that acknowledging one’s own hearing issues, and seeking help for them, can be a gradual process. Provide continuous encouragement, emphasizing the positive

changes they can expect.

Provide Educational Resources - Share articles, brochures, or online resources about hearing loss and its impact. Helping them learn the importance of hearing health can motivate them to take action.

Keep It Up - Continue to check in on their progress and offer assistance. Celebrate their milestones, no matter how small, and remind them of the benefits they’ll enjoy with improved hearing health.

By guiding someone through this process, you give the gift of a better life. Your empathy, encouragement, and practical support can make all the difference in helping them take the first steps toward better hearing health.

Your journey can inspire someone else to take control of their hearing health. Let’s work together to improve lives. Help a friend schedule an appointment to address their hearing health today.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with honest answers about your hearing health care. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com

We Hear You and We are Here for You!

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Comprehensive Natural And Lifestyle Strategies

To Deal With Chronic Venous Insufficiency

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Have you noticed your legs swelling after a long day or the appearance of varicose veins? You’re not alone. Many people endure swelling, skin changes, and discomfort, often without realizing these are signs of the condition, and the whole time it is progressing.

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when veins in the legs can’t return blood efficiently to the heart, causing blood to pool. It leads to swelling, pain, and varicose veins. Lymphedema involves a buildup of lymph fluid in your tissues due to a compromised lymphatic system, resulting in swelling, mainly in the arms or legs.

Your doctor can help you. Diuretics may be prescribed to reduce fluid buildup, but they should be used cautiously as they can deplete essential nutrients, something I call the ‘drug mugger’ effect.

Certain natural remedies are useful and they don’t have the side effects of medications. Vitamins and minerals can help manage CVI and lymphedema. Let’s go over those now.

Vitamin C: This essential nutrient is known for its role in collagen production and tissue repair. Vitamin C helps strengthen the walls of veins and capillaries, reducing swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Flavonoids: Found in many fruits and vegetables, flavonoids like diosmin and hesperidin are known for improving vein elasticity and reducing inflammation.

Magnesium: This mineral is crucial for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function. It helps regulate muscle tone in the vascular walls, improving blood flow, and is essential for heart health.

Zinc: Zinc is vital for maintaining skin in-

tegrity and mucosal membranes, promoting wound healing, which is crucial for skin affected by lymphedema.

Selenium: This trace mineral acts as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress that can lead to vascular damage.

Some supplements can interact with medications and blood thinners that your doctor prescribed so ask your doctor what’s right for you. Next, let’s talk about effective home strategies starting with the most important one, compression:

1. Compression Therapy: Compression stockings are a cornerstone because they can help with blood flow back to the heart, reduce discomfort and swelling, and prevent further vein damage by supporting the vein walls.

2. Exercise: Regular, low-impact exercise improves circulation and reduces symptoms. Activities such as walking, leg lifts, ankle pumps, and swimming are beneficial.

3. Leg Elevation: Elevating your legs above your heart several times a day can help reduce swelling and improve blood return to the heart.

4. Healthy Weight and Diet: A balanced diet and hydration are important. Limit sodium chloride (table salt) intake to reduce water retention.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Set reminders to get up and walk around periodically. Try not to cross your legs for extended periods. Managing CVI and lymphedema requires a lifelong commitment. If you’d like more information as well as herbal remedies which are not listed here, read the longer version of this article, it is posted at suzycohen.com.”

If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, it is posted 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.

Make an appointment online at:

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).

THERAPIES/SERVICES

• Hormone Replacement

• IV Therapies

• Thermascan

• Cryoskin • HOCATT

• Colonics • PEMF

• Salt Room/Halotherapy

• Theta Chamber

• Ozone • Botox

• Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management

• Peptides

Lakehurst Road | Suite 305 Toms River, NJ 08755 732-473-1123

Rte 72 | Ste 305 | Manahawkin, NJ 08050 609-597-9195

W Millstream Road Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-9595

Labor Day has come and gone. However, it’s now the shoulder season at the Jersey Shore! Local Summer as some call it. Here’s an amazing pic by photographer Scott Nevins taken at sunrise at Beach Haven West. Have a pic for this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Bene t For Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Commi ee

BRICK – The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee will be hosting a benefit dinner at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 2491 Old Hooper Avenue in Brick, on September 14 beginning at 12:30 p.m.

The cost is $25 per person and includes Italian lunch and Tricky Tray (gift auction). For more information, contact Michael at 732-477-6507 or John at 732 262-7926.

Government:

Continued From Page 9 simply unknown,” said Smith, citing a study by Dr. Jochen Fricke on a similar project in Germany that found these cables can carry so much excess heat they can dry out the earth’s soil.

In Congress, Smith has been leading the fight to hold the federal agencies overseeing the massive, unprecedented offshore wind projects accountable and demanding total transparency from top federal officials over the disastrous risks posed by the projects. Last year, Smith’s legislation to require the Federal Aviation Administration to certify the impact of offshore wind on radar for commercial and defense aircraft was passed by the House.

Additionally, Smith secured an independent investigation by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) into the impacts that the wind turbines will have on the environment, fishing industry, military operations, radar, navigational safety and more. The ongoing audit by the congressional watchdog is expected to be completed this fall.

“These potential problems with the high-powered cables are just the latest concerns highlighted by local residents that big government and big corporate interests are kicking to the side to push through potentially unsafe, untested systems - push through with unimaginable speed and disregard for the caution signs along the way and putting human and sea life at grave risk,” Smith said.

Habitat For Humanity 8th Annual Walk To Build

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Help families walk towards a brighter future! Join in making a difference by sponsoring the 8th annual Walk to Build on September 21 on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk at 9 a.m. Your support helps pave the way for Ocean County families, transforming lives with each step we take together. Be

a champion for change - sponsor today and walk with us toward a brighter future! If you would like to learn more about Walk to Build, visit northernoceanhabitat. org/events/2023-annual-walk-to-build. Contact ErinB@nohfh.com or 732-8189500 ext. 100 with questions about becoming a sponsor or signing up for the walk!

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

Ocean County Health Department Seasonal Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccination Sites for 2024

Tuesday, Oct.8th Fawn Lakes Community Center 10AM-12PM

Friday, Oct. 11th Waretown Community Center 10AM-1PM

Saturday, Oct. 12th YMCA - Toms River 10AM-1PM

Tuesday, Oct. 15th Seaside Heights Recreation Center 1PM-4PM

Wednesday, Oct. 16th Thorton Community Center 10AM-1PM

Wednesday, Oct. 16th Cassville Fire Department 3PM-6PM

Thursday, Oct. 17th Toms River Senior Center 10AM-1PM

Friday, Oct. 18th Ocean County Fire & EMS Academy 10AM-1PM

Friday, Oct. 18th Plumsted Health Fair 11AM-1PM

Saturday, Oct. 19th South Toms River Recreation Center 10AM-1PM

Monday, Oct. 21st Stockton University at Manahawkin 11AM-4PM

Tuesday, Oct. 22nd Manchester Library 10AM-1PM

Wednesday, Oct. 23rd Holiday City South Club House 10AM-1PM

Thursday, Oct. 24th Island Heights Municipal Bldg 10AM-1PM

Friday, Oct. 25th Toms River Library 1PM-4PM

Tuesday, Oct. 29th Holiday Heights Club House 10AM-1PM

Friday, Nov. 1st Bay Avenue Recreation Center 10AM-1PM

Monday, Nov. 4th Manchester Twp. EMS Annex 10AM-1PM

Wednesday, Nov. 6th Lacey Community Center 10AM-1PM

Friday, Nov. 8th Brick Senior Center 10AM-1PM

Tuesday, Nov. 12th Silver Ridge Park East Clubhouse 10AM-1PM

Tuesday, Nov. 12th Ocean County Connection (OC Mall) 10AM-1PM

Wednesday, Nov. 13th Pt. Pleasant Beach Fire House 10AM-1PM

Thursday, Nov. 14th Beachwood Community Center 10AM-1PM Saturday, Nov. 16th Ocean County Fire & EMS Academy 10AM-1PM

Tuesday, Nov. 19th Lakehurst Community Center 1PM-4PM

Wednesday, Nov. 20th Thorton Community Center 3PM-6PM

Thursday, Nov. 21st Bayville Elks 1PM-4PM

Tuesday, Dec. 3rd Plumsted Library 1PM-4PM

Wednesday, Dec. 4th Seaside Heights Recreation Center 1PM-4PM

Thursday, Dec. 5th St. Mary’s by the Sea Episcopal Church 3PM-6PM

Friday, Dec. 6th Brick Library 10AM-1PM

Tuesday, Dec. 10th Bay Avenue Recreation Center 10AM-1PM

Thursday, Dec. 12th South Toms River Recreation Center 3PM-6PM Friday, Dec. 13th County Connection (OC Mall) 3PM-6PM

Tuesday, Dec. 17th Lacey Library 3PM-6PM

STAY INFORMED WITH IMPORTANT NOTICES ABOUT OCEAN COUNTY AND OUR UPCOMING FLU AND COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINICS!

B.Y.O.B. Understanding New Jersey’s Laws N.J.S.A

2C:33-27

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

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

their business policy.

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

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

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

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

PROVIDERS

Dr. Marc Handler

Ashley Falis, PA-C

Dr. Krisitina Derrick

Patrick Lombardi, PA-C

New Patients Welcome

Evening Hours Available

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

ABC News Correspondent Stephanie Ramos At Grunin Center

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County College Foundation is pleased to welcome Stephanie Ramos to the Grunin Center for the Arts on September 25, the second installment of the Foundation’s Fall 2024 Blauvelt Speaker Series.

The event will take place at 6 p.m. on the Grunin Center’s Main Stage. Admission is free but advanced registration is required at grunincenter.org

Stephanie Ramos is a correspondent for ABC News based in NYC. She has been front and center on every major news story and has covered everything from the White House, the COVID pandemic, the contentious Alabama Senate race, the tragic Parkland shooting, Hurricane Irma, the 2016 election, and the Charlottesville protests. She reports across all ABC News platforms, including GMA, World News Tonight, ABC News Live, Nightline, and 20/20. She also regularly fi lls in as an anchor for Weekend GMA, ABC News Live, and Nightline. Ramos started with ABC as a multi-platform reporter based in Washington, D.C., and served as a Pentagon reporter as well.

Prior to ABC, Ramos reported for local

stations in Kansas City, MO; Topeka, KS; and Columbia, SC where she established herself as a tenacious reporter covering important issues such as immigration, politics, and crime.

Ramos is a U.S. Army Reserve Major with years of service experience that has been valuable to ABC’s reporting and understanding of confl icts around the world. (News - See Page 29)

Photo courtesy Ocean County College Foundation

For Rent

Seaside PARK - "YEARLY" one bedroom apartment. Clean and Quiet, Steps to Beach, $1500Security and Credit Check, NO Pets. 908-278-5491. (41)

Auto For Sale

1968 Chevelle 55 - 4 speed, P/ B+5t, Stain Exh, Posi, A-Title. 52,000 miles, blue/black interior, $47,500. 138-Vin 609-351-5859. Radio delete. Disc brakes. (39)

Items For Sale

Items For Sale - Wine Equipment mint condition, Mulcher/Destemer, Pump, Carboys, Vats, Demijohns, Sorting Table. Patsy 413-530-6728. (40)

Inside Single Niche - In Ocean County Memorial Park Toms River, Bldg. 10 SCEG-4-1. Worth $1,800. Asking $1,300. Call 732477-8559. 732-604-8769. (39)

Items Wanted

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

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ 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. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

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

Comics From 1970'S And Older Wanted.- Any amount is fine. Cash paid. Call Steve, any time, at 732-277-7327. (36)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Reggae, Blues, Jazz. Also buying Comic Books . Call Rick 908-616-7104 (t/n)

CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)

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 PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (44)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

Youtube Content Creater - Smart phone video editor. $25/hour. My channels lobsterlabmedia, payattentionfilms. Call Herb 973-223-8840. jerseylobster@gmail.com. (38)

P/T 1st or 2nd Class Conventional Machinist - WeekdaysLakewood, NJ. Hours/Rate TBD. 732-367-3100 ext. 107. (38)

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)

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)

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time Maintenance worker. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (39)

School Bus Drivers Needed - Free CDL Training. $23-26/hour starting rate + overtime, 401K, Health, Life, and Dental Insurance. FT and PT positions available. 732-905-5100. (39)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full/part time CNA. Must be licensed, and available to work weekends. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal. com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (39)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full and part time Dietary Aides If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal. com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (39)

Services

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (43)

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)

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)

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)

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)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n)

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

HOUSE CLEANING - 848-3261907, Over 30 years of professional experience. Cleaned pediatric, cardiology office over 15 years. REFERENCES available. $30 hour. KEVIN 848-326-1907. (39)

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

When You Need A Caregiver

Call Lucy - European Registered Nurse, 25 years. US Eldercare experience, 19 years. Live in/out, hourly, negotiable. 732-657-1409 (H), 732-833-3273 (C). (47)

DECKS • DECKS • DECKSWOOD • TREX • COMPOSITE • VINYL RAILINGS • BOARD REPLACEMENT • STAIRS • EXPERTS INSTALLATION • LICENSED • INSURED • ADVANCED BUILDING. 609-394-9030. (36)

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)

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)

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

Housecleaning - We offer services: House cleaning, laundy, window cleaning, painting, office cleaning, carpet cleaning, shopping, take clothes dry cleaning, typing, office work, demonstration, merchandise in store. Very good prices. Call 732330-4189 or 848-287-3944. (t/n)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

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

Services Services Services

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONS - All Types of Home Improvement and Repairs. EXPERT Carpentry •Doors •Windows •Bathroom And Kitchen Upgrades •Finished Basements •Ceramic Tile •Laminate Flooring •Decks •Vinyl Railings •Masonry •Painting •More. Licensed and Insured. Advanced Building. 609-384-9030. (38)

(37)

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)

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-897-8361. (t/n)

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (38)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

• M ail this form to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. OR

• Go to jerseyshoreonline.com, click classifieds, fill out the form and pay by credit card. OR

• Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI.

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

For Rent

Real Estate

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.

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.

Calculate Price As

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

Follows: *In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

for

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

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication)

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

News:

Continued From Page 26

In 2008, she was a 1st Lieutenant in Iraq, receiving multiple medals for her honorable service, including the Meritorious Service Medal. When she returned, she and her husband produced the award-winning special “To Baghdad & Back” using footage she captured on a small handheld camcorder throughout her tour.

The Blauvelt Speaker Series is funded in part by the generosity of the late Bradford Thomas & Eleanor G. Blauvelt and the Wintrode Family Foundation. This year’s 2024-2025 additional sponsors include Carluccio, Leone, Dimon, Doyle & Sacks, LLC, Arlene and Frank Dupignac, Jr., Kean Ocean, Stella and Marshall Kern, Kiwanis of Greater Toms River, Leone & Daughters, New Jersey Natural Gas, and OCVTS.

Bus Trip To Feast Of San Gennaro

BRICK – The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee is hosting a bus trip to Feast of San Gennaro in New York on September 15. Bus departs from the Barnegat Municipal Complex at 9:45 a.m., and the Brick Plaza (Cedar Bridge Road entrance) in the area of

the Burlington Coat Factory at 10:30 a.m. The bus returns at about 8 p.m. in Brick and 8:30 p.m. in Barnegat.

Cost is $40 and includes bus ride, free time sightseeing and refreshments on the bus. For further information or to make reservations, contact: Michael at 732 477-6507.

Ocean County Business Expo

LACEY – Ocean County Business Expo, brought to you by Central Ocean Business Association (COBA), will be on November 19 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Lacey Township Community Center, 15 E Lacey Road, Forked River.

The Ocean County Health Department will have a free clinic for Flu and COVID vaccines!

For more information, call Lousia Kasper at 732-995-3681 or Denise Thatcher at 609384-4619.

Crestwood Village 6 Trustees Meet & Greet

WHITING – All residents are invited to meet and be greeted by Crestwood Village 6 Trustees, Advisory Board Members, all clubs, organizations, and activities. Event will be on September 14 from 11

a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Crestwood Village 6 Volunteer Room.

RSVP required. Call 732-849-3315 by August 26. Please leave a message with name, address, and number attending.

JOIN US ON:

Saturday, September 14th

10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

(Makeup Date: Sunday, September 15th)

Sponsored by the Ocean County Historical Society, Ocean County Cultural and Heritage, and the Joshua Huddy DAR Chapter FREE ADMISSION

MEET ABBIGAIL ADAMS AT 10:30AM & BENJAMIN FRANKLIN AT 12:00PM

• Learn about the History of Ocean County through displays exhibited by historical societies and museums

• Tour the 1860’s newly renovated Elizabeth Sculthorp Force House

• Visit the Ocean County Historical Society museum and more!

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Toiletries Drive For Children In Need Was Successful

Bring the entire family! is event is free of charge!

Ocean County Historical Society 26 Hadley Ave. • Toms River, NJ 08753

For additional information, contact Jeff at 609-339-9134 or jeffschenker@ocean.edu

TOMS RIVER – Hundreds of youngsters in need and the Ocean County Library’s Homebound and Volunteer Services are expressing deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to the record-setting July “Sparks’ Best Friend Forever Reading Club Toiletries Collection Drive.”

Throughout the month, collection bins in six OCL branches filled continuously with new, wrapped personal care items such as hair combs and brushes, feminine hygiene products, shampoo, hair conditioner, bucket hats, deodorant, insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottles, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap and sandals.

“The Homebound and Volunteer Services Department would like to give a special “thank you” to the residents and patrons of the Brick, Upper Shores, Long Beach Island, Point Pleasant Beach, Point Pleasant Borough and Toms River branches for providing donations to our fi rst-ever summer

collection drive,” said Kelly Nichols, the Library’s Coordinator of Volunteers.

“We were able to provide the two Ocean County locations of the Division of Child Protection and Placement with more than 1,300 items, especially summer essentials,” she added. “Based on your participation, Ocean County Library continues to fulfill our mission to Connect People, Build Community and Transform Lives.”

The OCL Home Borrowers Service assigns trained, vetted volunteers to deliver and retrieve Library items for patrons who cannot physically visit a branch. The Mobile Library serves patrons in nearly 40 Ocean County life care facilities, delivering and collecting items monthly. Books by Mail offers in-home access of the library’s collection to residents who are unable to visit or are not assisted by a Volunteer. Learn more at theoceancountylibrary.org/services/ homebound.

Photo courtesy New Jersey Department of Children & Families

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

John Gould, a British naturalist, is responsible for giving this bird common names, some of which are used today. These names are sapphire, hill star, topaz, wood star, sylph and sun gem. There are more than 320 species with the largest number and variety found in South America. In the United States there are approximately 12 species. Hummingbirds are very small, with the largest being about 8 inches, and a body weight less than the weight of most sparrows. Their compact bodies are strong and muscular. Their wings are more like blades connected to the body only from the joint of the shoulder. This structure is different from the wings of other birds. Hummingbirds can fly forward and backward, up and down, as well as sideways. They can hover in and around flowers as they obtain nectar and insects. Their wings beat at extraordinary rates with the smaller birds having the faster beats. For example, the ruby-throated has a wing-beat rate of approximately 70 per second for the male and the female 50 per second. Can you imagine? You’ve probably witnessed a hummingbird

12 Species Of is Bird Are Found In e United States Sailfest NJ Returns For 33rd Year

TOMS RIVER – Get ready to set sail as the Rotary of Toms River presents the 33rd Annual Sailfest NJ on September 7 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the scenic Island Heights area of Toms River.

Sailfest NJ has grown into New Jersey’s premier sailing festival, drawing over 15,000 attendees from across New Jersey, New York City, and Philadelphia. This vibrant event features a wide array of vendors, live music, rides, a charity regatta, and much more. All proceeds benefit vital community programs supported by the Toms River Rotary Club Foundation, including schools, food banks, youth initiatives, veterans’ services, homelessness relief, healthcare, scholarships, and other local needs.

This year’s Sailfest NJ promises a full day of entertainment, including performances by School of Rock, Mojo Monks, and Garden State Radio. Attendees can also explore the many craft and vendor booths, enjoy the charity regatta, and relax in the beer, wine, and food truck area. Family fun awaits with inflatable kiddie rides, a cash 50/50 raffle, exclusive Sailfest merchandise,

dash and swoop making sudden starts and stops. That behavior is performed by the male defending its territory against birds as large as crows and hawks, as well as humans and other mammals. Their wings produce hissing, popping and humming sounds. In some species their tail feathers produce sounds. Hummingbirds produce two white eggs, the smallest laid by any bird, and rarely lay only one egg. Eggs are proportional to their size, approximately 10 percent of the female’s body weight. They have an elliptical (flat and oval) shape and are incubated for about 15 to 20 days. Blind and naked, the young are fed by regurgitation. In approximately three weeks they will fledge (leave the nest). The time of fledging is dependent upon the availability of food. Predators of hummingbirds include hawks, praying mantises, and spiders, to name a few. I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768. It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/ federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

and a variety of activities along the Jersey Shore. Each year get’s bigger with a record number of vendors in Sailfest History!

At noon, join at Letter Park on River Avenue between West End Avenue and Ocean Avenue for the Rotary of Toms River’s 9/11 Reflection Ceremony. This solemn event honors the victims and first responders of the 9/11 tragedy and includes a special salute to our veterans.

A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors: Celebrity Ford, Dillon’s Creek Marina in Island Heights, Ocean County Tourism, 100.1 WJRZ Radio, The Josephsen Family, Jersey Coast Family Law, Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, Weichert Realtors Lori Donnelly, Blue Water Agency, Community Medical Center in Toms River, Save the East Coast, The Little Gym in Toms River, Re/Max of Barnegat Bay, Carl’s Fencing in Toms River and Freehold, Meadow Brook Industries in Jackson, and Coastal Carts in Bayville.

Don’t miss out! Event details and sponsorship opportunities are available now at SailfestNJ.com.

Village 5 Resident Club Flea Market

WHITING – Come out to the Flea Market on September 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to see what you have been missing out on. They have over 50 friendly vendors, come on in and check it out our great bargains. If you just want to catch up with your friends, stop by the kitchen for breakfast or lunch

8:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. Hope to see you here at 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. They have a Flea Market every third Saturday of every month. The next one is October 19. If you are interested in renting a table the cost is $10 per table. Call Ronnie at 908-303-7377.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Local WWII Vet Remembered In Documentary

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - June 6 marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day, when 156,000 Allied troops invaded five beaches in Normandy, France by sea and by air, which ultimately liberated western Europe and laid the foundation for ending World War II. The attack was known as the greatest amphibious landing in history.

This is likely the last major milestone for the surviving veterans, the youngest of whom are in their late 90s.

Brick resident John Santillo was 97 when he attended the 75th D-Day Anniversary observance in France, which was memorialized by producer-director Lawrence Schwartz of Point Pleasant Beach, who created a poignant documentary about Santillo’s life and his 2019 journey back to Normandy.

Lawrence and his editor, Jack Diehl, took 10-15 hours of raw footage to tell the story of Santillo’s early life and wartime experiences in “Oh, Johnny!” which had a recent showing at Point Pleasant Beach Library.

The 40-minute film, which is in its marketing stage, includes photos from Santillo’s childhood in Newark where he lived with his close-knit Italian-American family, and contrasts that with his life as an Army draftee.

The director used archival footage of the invasion, which was interspersed with footage of Santillo speaking, dancing, singing and joking.

Santillo’s wartime experience and exuberant personality made him the perfect subject for what Schwarz jokingly calls “a

Brick veteran John Santillo spoke to 5,000 people during the 75th anniversary of the Normandy invasion in 2019.

non-fiction musical.”

The director-producer is committed to preserving the legacy of World War II veterans. He met Santillo at Brookdale Community College where Schwartz serves on the board of the Center for World War II Studies.

“His story represents all veterans,” Schwartz said. “I felt compelled to tell his story - people are just drawn to him, he was a wonderful, warm human being. He loved going to Brick Memorial High School where he spoke on multiple occasions.”

During the 75th D-Day celebration in France, Santillo is seen in the documentary speaking to over 5,000 people at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, situated on a bluff high above the French coast.

“I shed a lot of tears for the soldiers behind me,” he said to the crowd.

(Vet - See Page 33)

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn

Santillo said that when the landing craft for troop-transport (called Higgins boats) arrived at Utah Beach, “everybody was quiet. Some prayed, some said ‘What are we doing here?’ but we were all scared,” he said. “We didn’t know what we were getting into.”

Within minutes, Santillo saw bodies of his fellow soldiers floating in a sea of red blood.

“I have a lot of memories here,” he said to the gathered. “We were all together that day. Some got out alive, some died. I’m not a hero, the heroes are buried - I salute you,” he said of the 2,500 American troops who died in the beach assault and airborne operations.

Schwartz said as soon as the boat ramps came down, “they were sitting ducks. Many drowned because they were carrying 60 pounds of equipment.”

The Germans were waiting in bunkers called “pill boxes” scattered throughout the hills facing the beaches, which were bombarded by the Navy.

Schwartz said that Santillo got a lot of love

and respect during the 75th commemoration ceremonies. “People were constantly coming up to him, it was very emotional. He was grateful he got to go back.”

When Santillo was asked by an interviewer in Normandy what he would say to world leaders today, the veteran did not hesitate. “Wars are rotten, no good, filthy. Anyone who starts a war is no good.”

With 110 World War II veterans passing every day, we need to keep their legacy alive, Schwartz said. “Johnny is a proxy for all the veterans.”

According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs statistics, 119,550 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II are still alive.

“Oh, Johnny!” has been accepted into three film festivals, including the June 28 Jersey Shore Film Festival in Red Bank and the International NY Film Festival on the same date.

Santillo died in December of 2020 due to health issues that were exacerbated by COVID-19. The veteran will always be remembered since there is an annual John Santillo Scholarship at Brick Memorial High School.

Downloadable Now: e New Ocean County Library Mobile App

TOMS RIVER – Carry more of the Ocean County Library in the palm of your hand than ever before. The new easy to read, easy to navigate OCL Mobile App is ready for downloading to your iPhone or Android device. The app is your key to on-the-go access to the Library’s online resources, streaming services, databases, eBooks, eMagazines, event listings, virtual classes and more. Its new look and feel goes hand-in-hand with extra features. You can now save multiple cards to the app and easily switch among

them, super handy for serving the whole family.

Another breakthrough is direct access to hoopla™ and Libby. Browse both providers and check out selections right through the app.

The OCL app is free and available in the App Store or Google Play. Need some downloading help? Ask a circulation staffer at any of OCL’s 21 branches and reading centers or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/ services/mobile-app.

Resident Club Crestwood Village 5 $3,000 Bingo Extravaganza

WHITING – Crestwood Village 5 is hosting a $3,000 Bingo Extravaganza on October 26 at Village 5 Hilltop Clubhouse, 325 Schoolhouse Road.

Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Selling begins at 4 p.m. Admission package is $40 and includes

all $3,000 payouts. Jackpot: $150, $250, $800. Includes in admission package. Kitchen opens at 3 p.m. serving hot and cold food, deserts.

For questions or more information, call Anthony at 732-674-2260. All sales finals. No refunds.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

28 Standing order?

Packed

Change one’s skirt? 34 Like a pagoda 35 Hands-on experience, hopefully 38 Enter 40 __ Bruin: UCLA mascot

“Decisions, decisions ... “ 43 Twitch __ 46 “Yes and no” 48 F1 neighbor

Daikon, e.g.

Hairy bunch

Thin reed

Stormy

Pt. of LLC

Critical-care ctrs. 59 Workout wear

(c)2024

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Use all the cards in your deck, but don’t rely on wild cards to win the hand. Consider finding joy and pleasure in people or things within walking distance of your local neighborhood. A minor admiration could ignite your passions.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Flirtations pass the time but may not endure. You might get more accomplished if you have a partner. Later this week you could have the energy and endurance to work on an important project. Keep some things near and dear to your heart.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Smiles and warmth can help social events flow more smoothly. You may come off charming without even needing to put forth much effort. You might also feel pressured to follow mundane conventions to fit in with the crowd.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : Every problem has a solution. The easy and seemingly obvious answer might not lead to the best possible outcome. You may have the strength and ability required to face whatever comes if you are willing to be patient and take your time.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You shouldn’t need to make grand promises or go to extreme lengths to please someone special. Just be yourself; true partners and friends accept you for who you are. You may feel called to spend your free time at home with loved ones.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A call or text could give you a new lease on life. Be prepared to embrace unusual circumstances in the week ahead and embrace the available possibilities. Old acquaintances could grow into something more with your care and attention.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): New opportunities coming your way may be a good fit and could result in your most outrageous wishes coming true. You may feel sure that you have found a sure thing and could be willing to put it all on the line for this lucky individual.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Ignite your imagination. Your dreams have power so fuel them with effort and they could come to life. And remember, a little admiration may just be life’s way of keeping things interesting, so don’t take it too seriously.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Look beyond the world you know to find the balance you seek. Whatever traditions you follow could guide you on your path and illuminate your inner world. Don’t let daily duties interfere with your quest for the extraordinary.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Sometimes, simplicity is the key to getting along with others. Following your deepest impulses might bring you admiration or even a warm embrace, but making significant changes could set off a series of unpredictable events.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Financial issues may be causing stress now. Careful consideration of your true priorities and goals could guide you to take more appropriate and intentional action. Your patience may be rewarded with growing stability and security.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Change your focus and look for all the positives in your life, rather than dwelling on the negative. The more you concentrate on the wonderful aspects of the world, the more life and understanding you will find waiting for you.

TAKE THIS SEASON’S

SALADS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

By

America’s Test Kitchen