2024-10-12 - The Brick Times

Medical Center Celebrates 40 Years of Service and Innovation

attendees an inside view

By Stephanie Faughnan BRICK -

Forty years ago, Brick Hospital opened its doors as a small 120-bed community medical center. Today, Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center (OUMC) has grown into a 357-bed facility and is part of a network recognized for excellence by U.S. News & World Report

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, OUMC hosted a large community event, transforming its grounds into a lively gathering for residents,

hospital staff, and families. The celebration featured a wide range of activities, with something for everyone to enjoy. It also allowed the medical center to showcase its advances in medical technology and care.

The event included interactive exhibits with demonstrations of the hospital’s robotic-assisted surgery technology. OUMC has two da Vinci robots for minimally invasive surgery and a separate robot used for knee replacement. They are in the process of purchasing another robot

“Homeschool Pod” At Church Concerns Neighbors

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - A controversial application that would allow a “homeschool pod” to operate on the grounds of an existing church had its fifth hearing before the township’s Board of Adjustment recently.

An ancillary building would be used for the school on the four-acre site of Fellowship Chapel, located at 170 Duchess Road, which is surrounded by a residential community of single family homes.

The school, which would operate independently of

the church, would be a second principal use for the site (in addition to the Fellowship Church), which was granted a Conditional Use by the Board in the original 2011 ordinance.

(Homeschool PodSee Page 4)

used for emergency medical

designed to assist in spinal surgeries.

Guests had the chance to observe how the cutting-edge surgical robots work, with even small children sitting by the controls as though playing a fun video game.

Dr. Thomas R. Lake, a colon and rectal surgeon for 23 years, watched as curious onlookers came to check out the robots on display. He said he has performed over 1,000 robotic bowel surgeries and shared the benefits of the technology.

“Patients have less pain and a

quicker recovery overall,” said Lake. “They’re getting out of the hospital in two days versus five days; returning to work in three weeks versus eight weeks. It’s a big difference.”

Robotic surgery offers surgeons enhanced precision and comfort. With ten times magnification, it provides superior visualization, and wristed instruments allow for movements similar to open surgery. Surgeons can sit comfortably

(Medical Center - See Page 4)

County Geeks Out At FanNation

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER –

For nearly a decade, FanNation has been bringing a “Geekstravaganza” to the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library. The free event provides a multi-media convention for fans of science fiction, comic books, fantasy,

horror, anime and much more and this year was no exception.

Families could be seen making a nautical themed I spy bottle. In the Discovery Room you could also enjoy a Tinker Fairy storytime that featured stories, games and a meet and greet with a Tinker Fairy.

FanNation also featured the return of some old favorites such as the crimson haired mermaid who also provided some stories, games and greeted young people with tales and her tail.

A popular annual feature is the scavenger hunt. This

(FanNation - See Page 5)

(Left) Mike Alessi, a paramedic offered

of the helicopter

transport. (Right) Fiona, a member of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit, greeted attendees.

Photos by Stephanie Faughnan

Medical Center:

Continued From Page 1

at a console, reducing strain, while the system filters out tremors for smoother, more accurate procedures.

Event attendees had a chance to meet three members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and Sangria, the white horse from the Sheriff’s Office. They also had the opportunity to get an up-close look at Hackensack Meridian’s medical helicopter.

Mike Alessi, a paramedic, explained that he works alongside a pilot and a flight nurse to provide critical transport by helicopter. “The helicopter is equipped with essential hospital-grade equipment,” Alessi said, pointing out the on-board ventilator, an EKG monitor, and a device that measures oxygen levels in the body.

“We’re the only air medical program in the state of New Jersey that carries whole

Homeschool Pod:

Continued From Page 1

Schools and churches are considered a Conditional Use in residential areas, which means they can operate if they meet certain conditions.

The most recent meeting centered on those conditions not being met for a school, which includes laws regarding the maximum lot coverage, landscaping buffers, building coverage and setbacks, which cannot be changed since they are all preexisting conditions, argued the applicant’s attorney Richard C. Sciria.

Also, schools are required to have frontage on a “higher-order” (higher speed and higher volume) roadway and not just on a “lower-order” residential street.

Sciria and planner Marc S. Leber testified in favor of the Use Variance for the church since a school is considered an “inherently beneficial use” to a community in New Jersey land law.

“There is nothing in the ordinance that prohibits two principal uses,” Sciria said, and the two uses would be mitigated by the fact that they would have traffic on different days. The school would operate Monday-Thursday and the church holds services on Sundays, he said.

Township Planner Tara Paxton asked Leber if the application poses any significant detriments.

Paxton said the second principal use as a school is more intense than a house of worship, which only has substantial traffic on worship day.

Board Chairman David Chadwick added that when the church was granted a variance

blood,” he added.

For hospital staff, the anniversary was more than just a celebration - it was a chance to reflect on decades of growth and camaraderie. Frank Citara, MBA, president and chief hospital executive, said the hospital’s affiliation with Hackensack Meridian has been instrumental in its development.

“Once we merged with Hackensack, a lot of investment went on,” said Citara. “In oncology, the heart-vascular center, the operating room, and overall, throughout the campus.”

Citara added that there are plans to increase the bed capacity at the medical center, as well as expansions within both oncology and surgical services. The impetus for investments has been the growth of the population, with a significant number of local residents moving from part-time to full-time status after the pandemic.

OUMC is a teaching hospital that began its residency program in 2018 with 20

for a house of worship in 2011, it was based on traffic only during times of worship.

At the time, the congregation numbered about 200 people, but the current membership of Fellowship Chapel is currently about 55 or 60, he said. “It seems that [a school’s] impact on that street would be pretty substantial, at least a five-fold increase,” he said.

Chadwick said his chief concern is public school buses operating on Duchess Lane at the same time children would be dropped off at the school, resulting in a high volume of traffic in a condensed period of time.

What followed was a nearly two-hour discussion on what number of vehicles constitutes a significant impact on traffic.

Sciria’s proposal that staggered drop-off times be set as a condition in the application, and much more.

Leber said his client is not proposing any changes to the property. The lot coverage (percentage of land covered by buildings or asphalt) is an existing condition, street access is an existing condition, and the application would have set conditions that any future changes would have to come back before the Board for approval.

Scores of Duchess Lane and neighboring residents have been attending the meetings because they are worried that once a school Use Variance is granted, that Use could be carried through to a larger school in the future.

John Barone, who lives on Algonquin Trail, which connects to Duchess Lane, said he is concerned about traffic since four different school buses have stops across from Fellowship Chapel.

“[Allowing a school] would open the flood gates, because if they ever sell the property

residents. “Now we have 122 across all different specialties,” said Citara. “We hope to get them acclimated in the community and hope they want to stay with Hackensack Merdian.”

The hospital also partners with the nursing programs at Ocean County College and Georgian Court University and 60 nurses and other students are there almost every day, from September through May.

Many of OUMC’s long-term employees attended the celebration, reminiscing about the hospital’s transformation. Ken Souchek, Vice President of Operations, who has worked at OUMC for over three decades, reflected on his time there. “I’ve been here for 32 years, and the people have kept me around. It’s more than a workplace - it’s a family.”

Almost on cue, hospital worker Argenidada Lopez came to greet Souchek with a big smile. He introduced Lopez as an “esteemed environmental worker” and was quite happy

they could maybe open a bigger school,” he said.

A Duchess Lane resident (who preferred not to give her name) said she was worried that a school Use Variance would be attached to the property.

“So if the pastor decides to sell the property, the variance allows for a school, and a large school could amend the variance and could cause a bigger issue,” she said.

The homeschool, run by Rebecca Snegon of the Liberty School Association, bills itself as “offering a fresh air, free to choose, full curriculum school alternative.”

She said the homeschool group formed during COVID when parents needed to work and some of the children would be homeschooled together.

“People liked what we were doing, so we needed more space,” Snegon said after the meeting.

to wish her a happy birthday.

Souchek said he grew up in Brick and recalled past fundraising events when the facility was a “very small sleepy hospital.” He said he’s enjoyed the hospital reaching university status (in 2021), watching its growth, and seeing the evolution of the level of service and clinical programming.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the community, OUMC partnered with Fulfill, a local food bank, to collect food donations during the event. Visitors brought canned goods and non-perishable items to contribute to Fulfill’s mission of fighting hunger in the region.

“As Brick Township and our surrounding towns have grown rapidly over these past few decades, Ocean University Medical Center has always progressively served the needs of our region,” noted Brick Mayor Lisa Crate. “We are very fortunate to have the highly recognized OUMC as part of our neighborhood fabric.”

While she didn’t have an exact number of how many children would attend the school if the variance is passed, she estimated 25-27.

“We’ve looked elsewhere, but the rents are so expensive,” she said. “We don’t want to charge too much. We want to help people, not make money off them.”

She said Fellowship Church has not named what the cost would be for the use of their ancillary building, but Snegon, who is a member of the congregation, said the church wanted to see the home school “get back on our feet,” and would figure out the rent later.

“They have backed us and what we stand for, wholeheartedly,” she said.

The next hearing for the application is scheduled for Tuesday, December 10 at 7. Due to the expected large crowd, the meeting will be held at the Civic Plaza.

Scarecrows At The Beach Contest

Fill out the form at arts.pointpleasantbeach. org/events/scarecrow-contest-2024. When registered and scarecrow is finished - submit a photo of your finished scarecrow at the form prior to hanging.

Participants must hang their own scarecrows on assigned lamp posts by October 13. They will not be able to hang your scarecrow for you.

Voting begins October 20. Winners announced October 30. Scarecrows removed by November 3. They cannot guarantee requests for location where scarecrow will be hung.

Neighbors worry about school traffic through the week.

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn

FanNation:

Continued From Page 1

year, eagle-eyed attendees scoured the book shelves for dragon eggs that could net you a treasure from a prize box in the front lobby.

Mancini Hall was the place to be for Star Wars fans. The Star Wars Costuming club Saber Guild Corellia presented a children’s padawan training class allowing for young Jedi Knights to learn how to properly use their light sabers while “using the Force” to defend themselves from the dark side.

The USS Challenger, the Jersey Shore chapter of Starfl eet: The International Star Trek Fan Association also beamed down to the Hometown Dairy room to provide a Sci-Fi Roundup of the best and the worst science fiction entries of 2024 covering the subjects of “Dune II,” “International Space Station,” “Kingdom of The Planet of The Apes,” “Alien: Romulus” and “Furioso” among others.

That panel also explored the newest season of Doctor Who, the fi nal season of Star Trek Discovery, the second season of the SyFy Channel series The Ark and the mixed reaction to Disney Plus’s Star Wars: The Acolyte which was not renewed for a second season.

Both clubs showcased their respective group activities and backgrounds seeking new recruits at organization tables in the magazine area. For more information on the USS Challenger visit usschallenger.

org or e-mail beamaboard@aol.com. For those wanting to explore the Star Wars universe the Saber Guild can be reached by visiting saberguild.org

Cosplay was a big part of the yearly event with a number of attendees in costumes ranging from superheroes to many Japanese Animation (Anime) favorites. Among them was Toms River residents Rita Zagaclo who came as Youko Kurama from the anime series YuYu Hakusho. This marked her second year at FanNation. Her friend Katherine Palazzo came dressed as Pirate Jacqueline, a character she created herself and who sported a wyvern, a particular type of small winged dragon as opposed to a parrot. She provided an extensive back story for her character and how she came to find her winged companion and how she became enamored by pirates at a young age. Both young ladies put some creativity into their costumes. While the pirate costume was purchased at a Spirit Halloween store, the dragon and other parts of it were purchased elsewhere while Zagacki made hers from various items and found a special parasol that her character often sports.

Rosemarie McCroy, 12, stopped to pose behind a photo board that was set up for fans to record themselves for posterity. She was dressed in red as character Millie, an imp from the cartoon Helluva Boss.

Her mom Gina Musella said that her daughter was on her way to the Green Room that featured a crash course on how to play Dungeons & Dragons - a popular tabletop roleplaying game. “She needed red makeup and we made some of her costume with red

tights and a 3-D printer.”

A highlight of the day was the giveaway cart that rolled out at 12:30 featuring discarded graphic novels and manga books. The free graphic novels and comics went fast and featured a variety of material ranging from Batman to Thor to League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.

There was an anime trivia contest formatted after the popular “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” game show held in Mancini Hall. There was also an Escape

Room adventure featuring a time traveler who misplaced his key to his time machine. Activities included kokeshi doll decorating, fandom coaster designing, creating your own Pokemon ornament, 3D printing nerdy objects, button making, reusable bag creating and you could also make your own FanNation memorabilia from 3D pens.

The day concluded with the annual Cosplay contest where you could represent your fandom and win prizes.

Rosemarie McCroy, 12, poses at the Toms River Library during FanNation portraying the character Millie from the Helluva Boss cartoon.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

States To Watch In November – Part 3

As we wind down to the last month of this exhausting election cycle, I take another long look at states that might have some changes in leadership after November 5.

The previous editorials have examined Florida (slightly more competitive than you’d expect), Arizona (toss-up) and Montana (Dems will likely lose a Senate seat).

Georgia Democrats have been trying to lay claim to this state for years. Their fundraising messages keep saying that if they have a little more money, they can do it. For whatever that’s worth.

Most polls have Trump with a slight lead in Georgia, so he’s in the best po-

sition to win its 16 Electoral votes. Let’s look at some recent elections.

In 2016, Trump won Georgia 2,089,104 to 1,877,963. It was closer than anyone expected.

In 2018, Brian Kemp’s 1,978,408 votes for governor barely beat Stacey Abrams’ 1,923,685. Remember, this is the year of the Blue Wave, where Democrats did very well.

In 2020, Biden barely won the state 2,473,633 votes to Trump’s 2,461,854.

Also in 2020, Democrat Senate candidate Jon Ossoff lost to Republican David Purdue 2,374,519 to 2,462,617 (a difference of 88,000 votes).

However, Georgia has a rule that if it’s too close it goes to a run-off election. Then, Ossoff beat Purdue 2,269,923 to 2,214,979 (56,000 votes). Yes,

this is even narrower. No, it doesn’t make sense.

In 2022’s governor race, it was again Kemp vs. Abrams, and the result was the same but the margin was wider. Brian Kemp got 2,111,572 votes to Stacey Abrams’ 1,813,673 (with no Blue Wave to bolster her).

That same year had Democrat Raphael Warnock’s win over Republican Herschel Walker in a race so close it went to run-off (less than 40,000 votes the first time but almost 100,000 votes the second time).

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had been on the ballot in this state, but his name was recently taken off. Some people might write him in anyway. I imagine he’ll probably get a few thousand write-ins, which could make a huge difference when everything has been so close lately. While people thought he

would steal votes away from Democrats, his anti-vaccine stance aligns more with conservatives and it’s more likely that he’d steal Trump votes. That’s why he eventually endorsed Trump and tried to withdraw his name from battleground states.

There aren’t any questions on the Georgia ballot that would skew the vote either way, and there are no senate races (Ossoff is up in ‘26 and Warnock is up in ‘28). So, this will truly be a test of whether Harris has made enough in-roads there to keep the state blue.

Nevada

There are 6 Electoral Votes in Nevada, which has been won by Democrats during the last four presidential elections.

Biden won Nevada 703,486 votes to Trump’s 669,890.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Clinton won it 539,260 votes to Trump’s 512,058.

In 2022, Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto (498,316 votes) beat Republican Adam Laxalt (490,388) for a Senate seat.

This year’s Senate election is between Democrat Jacky Rosen and Republican Sam Brown. Rosen has been a senator since 2019. Brown has national recognition for his military service, which makes this an interesting race.

Both parties are pouring millions of dollars into the state to try to win the Electoral Votes and the Senate seat.

West Virginia

What? A state as conservative as West Virginia is one to watch this year? Yes, because we need to look at more than just the presidential election.

Consider Voting By Mail

Mail-in ballots for the November 5th General Election are now available for all registered voters. Voter turnout is expected to be high in the upcoming presidential election, so I encourage you to vote early by mail.

Voting-by-mail is safe and a great way to avoid possible Election Day inconveniences like lines at the polls, inclement weather or scheduling conflicts. To vote by mail, voters

must fi rst complete a voteby-mail ballot application that may be obtained from the County Clerk’s Elections website at MonmouthCountyVotes.com , on the County Clerk’s “Monmouth County Votes” mobile app or in person from either the County Clerk’s Elections Office or your hometown’s Municipal Clerk.

The deadline for voteby-mail ballot applications submitted by mail is Tuesday, October 29. Voters may also apply in-person at the County Clerk’s Elections Office located at 300 Halls

WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR!

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

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

Mill Road, Freehold, up until 3 p.m. on November 4. Completed ballots may be submitted to the County Board of Elections for counting in person, via mail or at one of the County’s ballot dropbox locations. With more ways and more days to vote, it’s easier than ever to cast your ballot, so why not vote by mail?

Christine Giordano Hanlon Monmouth County Clerk

no reports that duplicating votes in districts was a system-wide problem for ES&S. So how was it possible to just happen in Monmouth County and just this one time?

the purchase so that jewelry stores do not become “fences” for stolen jewelry. John Catalano did neither and was fined by Brick Municipal Court.

Nationally the Maga Republican Party continues to claim that election integrity is an important issue, but the Republican Ocean County Commissioners’ purchase of the Election Systems and Software (ES&S) voting system for $10 million in 2023 raises serious questions. The irony is that the ES&S voting system in Monmouth County duplicated the results in six districts in four towns in 2022! And there were

Previously Ocean County used the Dominion Voting System, but Fox News and some former President Trump’s supporters made false claims of election fraud caused by Dominion. Dominion then sued Fox News and Fox News settled for $787.5 million rather than go to trial. Although Ocean County did not experience any issues, the County Commissioners chose to replace Dominion anyway. Needlessly spending $10 million in the process because their political feelings were hurt for a system with questionable integrity! It does not end here.

As reported in the Asbury Park Press , the county prosecutor’s office sent an undercover agent into a Brick jewelry store owned by John Catalano in 2016 to sell him jewelry. By law, the owner is required to obtain identification of the seller and provide a receipt for

Now John Catalano is the Ocean County Deputy Clerk! The Ocean County Clerk’s office oversees elections! How did John Catalano get the position of Deputy County Clerk when he did not have the background for it and had this conviction in his background?

When John Catalano filled out the employment form, did he indicate that he committed this violation of law?

Now Ocean County has a voting system that has questionable integrity and a person overseeing the elections with a background of questionable integrity. If this does not look like a problem waiting to happen, I do not know what does.

It is time to break this cycle of nonsense and time to elect Regina Discenza for Ocean County Commissioner!

Joseph Lamb Campaign Manager/ Treasurer

As I said in a previous editorial, there are 33 senate seats on the ballot this year. Of these, 19 are currently held by Democrats and 10 are currently held by Republicans. All 4 seats held by independents are also up for grabs. One of these is in West Virginia. Republican Jim Justice has the perfect name for a politician (whether sincere or satirical). He is the current governor, and a multimillionaire from inheriting a coal mining company. He is the favorite to win over Democrat Glenn Elliott. This would be an easy pick-up for Republicans in gaining a Senate majority.

Chris Lundy Editor

Considering the divisive and negative rhetoric of our political climate, and as citizens of a free democracy, it is important to stay focused on the truth. Unfortunately, when the media portrays our political candidates with their own political agenda in play it is especially important to fact check what we speak about and post on media so we don’t flame the fi re of hate that is so prevalent in our society.

I was shocked and saddened when reading the recent letter to the editor by a former congressional candidate titled, “Why Hate Trump?” And to say “To be fair and impartial, he’s pretty much the worst person on the planet, and the worst President in history just based on his actions” is your opinion but consider how that statement leads to divisiveness and hate. Let’s get back to being “human” beings and spread love, grace, and mercy to all.

Diane Trampler Whiting

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

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

Plant Closures Blamed For Skyrocketing Electric Bills

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Paul Kanitra

TRENTON - Assemblyman Paul Kanitra sees New Jersey’s soaring electric bills as a straightforward question of supply and demand.

During an Assembly Telecommunications and Utility Committee hearing, he pressed PJM Interconnection Executive Director Jason Stanek about the impact of prematurely

closing fuel plants on rising electricity prices. PJM manages the electric grid throughout the region, which includes Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland.

Stanek acknowledged that nearly 2,900 megawatts of fossil fuel-generated power have been lost during the past six years, with just 1,300 megawatts added, leaving a shortfall of 1,600 megawatts.

The assemblyman pressed further, asking if energy rates would be cheaper if those plants were still operational. Stanek recognized that increased supply would have a “depressing

effect on prices.”

Kanitra noted that aggressive green energy targets made by the Murphy administration were directly contributing to higher utility bills.

“We’re going to have a whole hearing, and people will debate this ideologically,” he said. “But if we still had the resources that were shut down due to the state’s mandates, everyone in the state would be paying lower utility prices.”

The exchange emphasized the consequences of policies that prioritize Gov. Phil Murphy’s political interests over a comprehensive, affordable state energy policy.

Murphy’s 2020 Energy Master Plan proposes to phase out gas-powered vehicles, limit new homeowners’ access to affordable natural gas, and require builders to meet stricter requirements, the costs of which will be passed on to consumers. The goal is to reach 100% “clean energy” by 2035, which will be partially met by offshore wind development.

In 2022, natural gas and nuclear energy fueled more than 90% of all electricity generated in the state. About 73% of New Jersey households rely on natural gas as their primary heating fuel, 16% use electricity for space heating, and about 9% use petroleum products.

Bill Would Reimburse Towns For Security When Presidential Candidates Visit

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024, a bill authorizing the Secret Service to reimburse state and local governments for the use of state and local resources while supporting the protection of presidential candidates. Booker will introduce the bill when Senate session resumes.

In the aftermath dangerous safety breaches of the former president, the Secret Service has increased protection for presidential candidates to ensure their safety while campaigning and at their places of residence. These requirements place a significant burden on

local and state governments providing critical voluntary assistance to the Secret Service. Because there is currently no authorization for the Secret Service to reimburse these expenses, local municipalities pay these additional unanticipated costs out of pocket. This bill authorizes the Secret Service to reimburse these expenses so that local law enforcement agencies can continue to support these critical requirements.

“After the assassination attempt against the former president in Pennsylvania, and the armed shooter at Mar-a-Lago, it is clear that the Secret Service must have adequate resources to protect presidential candidates,” said Senator Booker. “Local law enforcement and first responders are critical partners to the Secret Service, but their support places a significant financial burden on municipalities such as Bedminster, New Jersey. We must ensure

the Secret Service’s partners can continue to perform these vital functions by authorizing federal reimbursement of their costs.”

“The Secret Service can fully accomplish their mission when they have robust partnerships with local law enforcement agencies,” said Congressman Kean. “Currently, a significant amount of that partnership is funded by small-town taxpayers and local budgets. I wrote this commonsense legislation to ensure that adequate resources are readily available to supplement each and every security plan. The Secret Service protects Americans leaders and must execute that function flawlessly every day.”

On behalf of Bedminster Township, I extend our greatest appreciation to Senator Booker and his staff for sponsoring the “Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024,” said Larry Jacobs, Mayor of Bedminster Township. “When the Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service request resources from Bed-

Meet Rotary District 7505 Governor

minster to bolster the security at the Trump National Golf Club, we do our best to step up and fulfill those requests. However, we are a small town and the ability to deploy our police, fire and first aid resources is limited and does come with great expense. Senator Booker understands the predicament that we are in. This legislation provides a mechanism for Bedminster and other local agencies to work with the Secret Service with confidence that our participation will not compromise our ability to serve our residents.”

The Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024 authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to reimburse state and local governments for the use of services, personnel, equipment, and facilities while protecting Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates

This legislation has also been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ).

BRICK – On October 23, the Rotary Club of Brick speaker will be the Rotary District 7505 Governor, Steve Neuner.

Steve first joined Rotary at the age of 31. He has served as President of two clubs in southern New Jersey and served as Treasurer for 3 years for his current club, Voorhees Breakfast. As the webmaster for his club, he spearheaded a recent re-design of their web page. He has served District 7505 as Vocational Service chair, as Club Service chair, and, since 2020, as an Assistant Governor.

Steve has completed three levels of Rotary

Leadership Training, and is now trained as an RLI facilitator. He has attended numerous Rotary International conventions, as well as Zone training events as DG Partner for his wife, Joanne Ventura (DG 2019-2020).

Steve is a Rotary Foundation Paul Harris Society member, a Major Donor, and a Sustaining Member. In 2018, with Joanne, he became a Foundation Benefactor, contributing to the Foundation’s Endowment.

Steve’s involvement in public service started after college, with a two-year stint as a VISTA volunteer in Rochester, NY. After law school

and over the course of a 41-year career in law (until his retirement in December 2021), he regularly volunteered to provide free legal services to the needy through South Jersey Legal Services and to present free seminars to the public, lawyers, accountants and other professionals. In 2005, he designed and helped promote an interactive program for high school seniors, giving students a practical “hands on” introduction to understanding and managing debt. That program has been presented at area high schools every year since then, and has recently been a regular part of

District 7505’s RYLA curriculum.

In addition to Joanne, Steve’s family include two adult children, who have embarked on their respective successful careers. He has lived in Cherry Hill, NJ for over 40 years. His hobbies include woodworking, reading, music and sailing. He is a violinist with the South Jersey Pops Orchestra.

The Rotary Club of Brick, NJ - Morning meets each Wednesday morning at the Brick Diner at 7:30 a.m. and they welcome guests and prospective members for fellowship and breakfast.

Disclaimer: Micromedia Publications has always provided a space in its newspapers to provide a place for readers to learn what their elected officials are doing. These items are lightly edited for such things as punctuation and grammar but are mostly unchanged from the source. These press releases are the politicians’ own views, not 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.

Letters:

Continued From Page 7

Vote For A Better Barnegat

We in New Jersey and those of us in Barnegat have multiple ways to cast our vote for the November 5th election this year. Vote by Mail is certainly the easiest way to cast your vote.

Vote by Mail ballots have been sent out and should be in your possession if you vote by mail. Please open it, vote, and return it as soon as possible so that you do not neglect to get it in on time. We also hope that when you vote you consider Claire Edelstein and Ron Naples for Barnegat Township Committee. Also early voting will open at the end of October and then, of course, going to the polling places on election day.

Have you had enough abuse, Barnegat?

A vote for Edelstein and Naples will show that you are ready for change in our local government that moves us ahead and out of the past that the current committee seems to represent.

Claire and Ron have new ideas and practical solutions for a Better Barnegat!

A vote for them is a vote for…

· Fiscal Restraint

· Responsible Development

· Government Transparency

· Improved maintenance on town facilities

· An end to a government with a patronage employment policy.

Please be sure to get out and vote. If for some reason you did not automatically receive your mail-in-ballot or if you have questions please contact the Ocean County Board of Elections at … co.ocean.nj.us/oc/elections then click on Ocean County Clerk’s Office, Vote by Mail, mail-in-ballot information.

Ron Naples Barnegat

In God We Trust

This election is about Good vs. Evil and Light vs. Darkness.

“We The People” must remember to vote with our Biblical morals, and values that gave us our liberties and freedoms.

God will have the fi nal say. He will hold each one of us accountable. “In God We Trust.”

Pat Lasher Jersey Shore

Kars For Who?

I’m sure that everybody has heard that jingle: “1-877-KARS FOR KIDS donate your car today.”

The commercial started out with cars

– now they take buildings, land, other property, etc. Is this whole thing some sort of scam?

Nowhere in the jingle does it say where the money goes. Do they take ghetto kids and give them a few days in the country? Do

they use the money for researching cures for rare childhood diseases? Do they have special schools or courses to help children with their reading skills so they can be competitive in today’s world?

Just what does this organization do for KIDS?

John J. Radlinsky Whiting

Heed The Words Of The Pledge

Think of the words to The Pledge of Allegiance then think of the mess our nation is in.

Consider the following words in the Pledge:

“Allegiance.” Whom do we pledge our allegiance to: God, country, political party or man? It was more than obvious in the last election, the allegiance, the idolatry to a man in spite of his fl awed character, lack of integrity, ethics and morals.

“Republic.” Defi ned, a Republic is a commonwealth; a state in which the power is vested in elected representatives. Have our elected representatives abused that power? Do they have integrity, have vision, take responsibility and serve our nation; not be self-serving? Without these factors there can be no trust and we will see a rise in corruption! They do not have the right to act as they please! We need leadership, not power and control!

“One nation.” America is a melting pot of cultures and in part that is one of the

things that makes us great. Yes we have problems such as the border crossings however hate, violence, and political fighting solve nothing.

“Under God.” As a society we have drifted farther and farther away from being a godly nation and it shows! Do our leaders walk humbly with God or have they sold their souls for power and money? Is loyalty to party or individual more important than God? It would seem so!

“Indivisible.” Our political leaders seem to be doing their best to divide America on a multitude of issues; blaming each other. The insurrection on the Capitol, attacking our 1st amendment rights, gun violence, restriction of voting rights, are examples. These are threats to our freedoms and democracy!

“Liberty.” Big Danger! When we allow government to grant our liberties, we give them the ability to take them away! We must demand leadership, not control at all levels!

“Justice.” Gun violence, hate crimes and let’s not forget the “Big Lie,” and anarchist attack on the Capital! Is the Constitution in danger when we let politics control the courts? Are we a nation of law; man’s law (often perverted justice) or God’s law?

Are we drifting, allowing our nation to turn into autocracy? It’s our fault if it does! Silence is not golden and there is much to be lost!

Ken Schorr Manahawkin

Brick EMS/Rescue

Employee Spotlight

On September 22, they conducted their 2nd Annual EMS Games (previously Directors’ Cup). Two teams of EMS staff were random assigned to Team Disabled Vehicles led by Supervisor Anthony Botts and Team B.O.B.O. (Burnt Out But Optimistic) led by Supervisor Dos DePiano. It was a close competition as it was last year as well. Six separate events took place coming down

to a tie breaker for the win. Members were tested on knowledge and skills with games based on ICS, Special Operations and Tactical Medicine.

In the end, Team Disabled Vehicles took the win. Most importantly everyone had a great time and we capped it off with a BBQ. Congratulations Supervisor Anthony Botts, Paramedic Ricardo Lopez, Paramedic Mike Magnetti, EMT Ryan Trapp, EMT Nicole Plevritis, EMT Bryan Lynch and EMT Michele Grady on your victory!

Ocean County Historical Society’s 36th Annual Holiday, Craft And Collectibles Faire

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Historical Society’s 36 Annual Holiday, Craft and Collectibles Faire will be on November 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Toms River High School South Cafetorium at the intersection of Hooper and Grant. (Use 212 Hooper Avenue with your GPS)

Admission is free! Over 80 quality vendors. The Ocean County Historical and Cultural Pavilion Sponsored by Ocean

County Cultural and Heritage. Featuring author William Lewis signing his books about the Pine Barrens. The OCHS famous baked goods table. A very large 5 -50. A snack stands and more!

A great opportunity to start your holiday shopping! Vendor tables are available. Contact Joseph at rjl072001@ gmail.com or 732-998-5934. Additional information and contracts are available on the OCHS website.

Emergency Management And CERT Seeking Volunteers

POINT PLEASANT – The Office of Emergency Management and The Point Pleasant Borough CERT are looking for volunteers!

Have you ever wanted to make a real difference in times of crisis? Here’s your chance!

Point Pleasant Emergency Management is looking for dedicated volunteers like you to join the team and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Learn essential skills to protect your family and

support your community during emergencies. Training is entirely free, and the time commitment is minimal.

Gain valuable knowledge in first aid, disaster preparedness, and more.

Make a difference today! To learn more about volunteering, visit their website at ptborooem. com. Together, let’s build a safer and more resilient community!

BRICK – For the month of October, Brick Township EMS Rescue would like to spotlight a team of employees.

Photo courtesy Brick EMS/Rescue

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Laurelton Art Society Exhibit And Reception

POINT

PLEASANT BOROUGH

– The Ocean County Library Point Pleasant Borough Branch is pleased to display works by members of the Laurelton Art Society throughout the month of October. You’re invited to enjoy their Artists’ Reception, 1 until 3 p.m. on October 19.

Contributing artists include Victoria Alexandros, Mary Jo Austin, Patricia Monto Autore, Robert D’Imperio, Mike Dreher, Ray Thomas Egeland, Dawn Eickman, Diane Gordon Eleneski, Joy Krais, Laurie Lewczyk, Laura Lutz, Philomena Markiewicz, Valerie Morone, Arlene Newman, Debbie Hughes Rooney, Melinda Saminski, Kami Simpson, Norene Stanish-Kaplan and Ilene Van Duyne.

The Brick Township-based Society is in its 44th year and attracts established and new artists from all parts of Ocean County. Society President Patricia Monto Autore says that she seeks to amplify the works of professionals and to encourage development of new artists.

“Our primary focus is to bring awareness of one’s artistic ability to the general community regardless of age or disability,” she remarked, “to provide guidance to foster confidence for budding artists and…to satisfy those who have been painting and

courtesy Debbie Hughes Rooney exhibiting for years.”

Meetings take place on the second Saturday of each month, September through June, in Ivy Hall of the First Baptist Church of Laurelton, Route 88 in Brick.

The organization holds free monthly demonstrations in various media, open to the public, and free professional workshops during its annual Festival of Art in the OCL Brick Branch. A five-hour workshop each March at the Society’s home base carries a nominal fee.

“Our goal is to encourage our members to try new mediums,” Patricia said. “To express themselves in directions they never thought would interest them.”

The reception is sponsored by the Friends of the Point Pleasant Borough Branch, volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraising and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Application forms are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends.

The exhibit and the Artists Reception are free and open to the public during Branch operating hours. For more details, stop by the OCL Point Pleasant Borough Branch, 834 Beaver Dam Road, visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events or call 732-295-1555.

Fall Fest Returning To Windward Beach

BRICK – Mayor Lisa Crate and the Township Council invite residents and visitors to enjoy a day full of fun at Brick Township’s annual Fall Fest on October 19 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Windward Beach Park. The event is free and promises something for everyone!

This year’s Fall Fest will feature an exciting lineup of activities, including a corn hole tournament, games for all ages, and a chance to test your skills with hatchet throwing. Guests can enjoy seasonal treats from an array of food trucks, offering a variety of delicious options.

As the day winds down, attendees will be treated to a spectacular fi rework display

over the water to cap off the celebration at 7 p.m.

Complimentary shuttle buses will be available beginning at 12:30 p.m. and will run continuously to and from Windward Beach. The fi nal buses will leave Windward Beach at 7:30 p.m. The shuttle bus locations are Lanes Mill Elementary School and Drum Point Elementary School. Anyone under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult to use the shuttles.

Admission to Fall Fest is free, and all are welcome to join in the festivities. The rain date for Fall Fest is October 20.

Photo

A MESSAGE FROM OUR ADMINISTRATOR:

Rose Garden is one of the few “mom and pop” skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers left ... in the state of New Jersey. The world has turned “corporate;” we have not.

It has been our core belief that the delivery of healthcare is quite personal. That “intimacy” is in danger when 5 to 100 facilities are operated in multiple states by large corporations. We have always strived for a close “family” atmosphere and believe we have succeeded. The environment is warm and inviting and exceedingly clean and spotless. Our homemade food and soups are outstanding, and the care is thoughtful, kind and productive.

We have been called the “Hotel of Healthcare.”

Please ask your friends, neighbors and, most importantly, other healthcare professionals. We are here, in your neighborhood, to serve you!

Local Pets Available For Adoption

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08753

732-505-4477 • www.rosegardennj.com

BRICK – Don’t tell the other cats, but Rudy might just win the “Most Handsome Cat” award at our shelter! This stunning black and white youngster has been waiting four months to fi nd his forever home, and we can’t believe he’s still here! At just a year old, Rudy is bursting with energy and affection. He always makes us laugh with his playful antics and charming personality.

Whether it’s getting all the pets, attention, or playtime, Rudy is happy as long as he’s the star of the show. He’d prefer to be the only pet in the home, where he can soak up all the love and adoration he deserves. You can view this pet and more at jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org. They are located at 185 Brick Boulevard and can be reached at 732-920-1600.

Candy Donations For Trunk Or Treat Sought

BRICK – Brick Recreation is seeking donations of candy for the upcoming Trunk or Treat on October 18.

• (732) 505-1212

All donated candy will be distributed at the event to the decorated vehicles so it can be handed out to young people.

participate in the event and make it special for the children. The donated candy helps them and reduces the amount of money they have to spend for candy.

(800) 556-7432 MANCHESTER AREA (732) 408-9455 BRICK AREA (732) 451-0800

Every year, hundreds of children enjoy Trunk or Treat and the donated candy helps ensure that every child gets some. The people who decorate the cars spend their own money and donate their own time to

Anyone who would like to support this event can drop off candy at the Brick Recreation Department, 270 Chambers Bridge Road, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. A collection bin has also been placed in Town Hall and will be available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

Brick Memorial Hosts Tournament Of The Bands Competition

BRICK – On September 28, Brick Memorial High School hosted the Tournament of the Bands Competition.

Mayor Lisa Crate presented the Mayor’s Trophy to Southern Regional Marching Band for having the highest overall score.

All of the bands performed exceptionally and our community is proud of the Brick Memorial and Brick Township High School Marching Bands.

Photo courtesy Brick Township

Good Night’s Sleep - Enhancing Sleep Quality Lecture

BRICK – Ocean University Medical Center is hosting a free on Getting a Good Night’s Sleep - Enhancing Sleep Quality lecture on October 16 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Ocean County Library - Brick Branch, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick.

Lack of sleep can affect you in many ways. Join Certified Sleep Health Educator Kathy Feeney and learn about sleep disorders and tips on how to get a better night’s rest. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/ Events or call 1-800-560-9990 to register.

Registration For Trunk Or Treat Is Now Open

BRICK – Registration for this year’s Trunk or Treat is now open. The event will be held on October 18 (rain date October 25) at the Drum Point Sports Complex.

As in previous years, there will be three time slots to register for. You only need to

register one car for your party. Recreation is also looking for any person, business or organization that would like to join the fun by decorating a vehicle and handing out treats. Anyone interested should call Recreation at 732-262-1073.

Pioneer Hose Fire Company Craft And Vendor Show

BRICK – The Pioneer Hose Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary will be holding a Craft and Vendor show on October 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 312 Drum Point Road, Brick.

Vendors and crafters can contact Cindi at PHFirehouse22Aux@gmail.com for details and space information. Come out on October 19 and buy some unique fall decor, food and crafts.

Holiday Of Hope Pet Photos With Santa

BRICK – You do not want to miss the Holiday of Hope event! Our elves are already at work preparing for Santa’s arrival on December 8 at Jersey Shore Animal Center 185 Brick Boulevard from 1 to 4 p.m.

Bring your camera or phone. They supply the Santa, and you take the photos. Santa’s helpers can help you take your photo! All pets must be leashed! Friendly animals welcome. This is a rain or shine event.

Whiting, New Jersey

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Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Consistently Wearing Hearing Aids May Reduce Your Risk Of Dying

Hearing loss is highly prevalent, affecting well over a billion people worldwide. In about 25 years, this statistic will double. Many studies have clearly identified hearing loss as a major risk factor for adverse health outcomes including reduced quality of life, depression, dementia, and possibly mortality. Hearing aids are a first line intervention for most individuals with hearing loss. However, the delay in getting “hearing help” can be up to 10 years!

A recent Lancet Study utilized a cross sectional analysis of 9885 adults who participated in the National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey between 1999 and 2012. The association between hearing aid use and risk of mortality was examined among adults with various degrees of hearing loss. Among individuals with hearing loss, the risk of mortality was lower among regular hearing aid users than “never” users of hearing aids. There are many theories proposed to explain the association between hearing loss and mortality. The first possible expla-

nation involves common pathology that affects both hearing and comorbidities leading to death, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and dementia. A second mechanism is the relationship between hearing loss and frailty. Thus, auditory deprivation resulting from hearing loss might negatively affect brain structure. The bottom line is consistent hearing aid use contributes to improved brain function. Several studies suggest up to a 50% reduction in cognitive decline with consistent hearing aid use. In my opinion, there needs to be additional efforts to improve accessibility and affordability of hearing aids in individuals with lower socioeconomic status.

If you suspect the possibility of HEARING LOSS, don’t be a fool and wait years to get a complete hearing evaluation. 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 & WE are Here for YOU!

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Risk-Based Screening For Breast Cancer

BRICK – Join Dr.Harriet Borofsky, M.D., Medical Director of Breast Imaging at Riverview Medical Center, as she describes the current technologies available to know your personal risk for breast cancer and to inform risk-based multi-modality screening. Advanced technologies for early detection and

diagnosis will be discussed. This community event is offered virtually through Hackensack Meridian Health, on October 16 from 12 to 1 p.m. Registration is required, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-5609990 to register and receive a Zoom link.

Dr. Isidore Kirsh

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Healing From The Impact Of Emotionally Immature Relationships

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Recently, I had a transformative experience reading Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents by Lindsay C. Gibson. As a voracious reader, I devour several books a month, and this one struck a deep chord, offering a profound understanding of emotionally immature people and their impact on our lives.

Whether it’s a parent, spouse, friend, or an ex, encountering emotionally immature behavior is something most of us deal with at some point or another.

In my work as a pharmacist, I have seen the prevalence of antidepressants and anxiolytics. Many people rely on these drugs, or on alcohol to cope. It’s sad to think that these are needed to navigate life in the presence of emotionally immature relationships without realizing the true source of the distress. If this resonates with you, it’s possible you’re dealing with someone emotionally immature, and understanding this could be the key to your healing journey. Let me pose critical questions that can help you identify emotionally immature behavior:

• Do conversations often revolve around the other person’s experiences, leaving little room for yours?

• When you express vulnerability or distress, do they react dismissively, sarcastically, or superficially?

• Do you get interrupted, or get the sense that your say is unimportant?

• Do minor disagreements lead to defensiveness or overreactions. Do they deny, distort or dismiss?

• When sharing good news, do you walk away

feeling unheard or like your joy was dampened?

Saying “yes” to one or more question indicates that you’re dealing with an emotionally immature person. While you can’t change someone else’s level of maturity, you do have control over who you spend your time with as an adult and the choice to disengage if needed.

For me, reading Gibson’s book helped me make sense of the emotional disconnect I’ve felt in certain relationships throughout my life. Many of us have been conditioned to feel that any emotional issue stems from something within ourselves, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. But this book flips that narrative, showing that the source of your emotional struggles might not be you at all. This clarity can lead to healthier coping mechanisms. The realization that certain crutches, whether prescription meds, alcohol, or other forms of escapism, might be used to manage the stress caused by emotionally immature relationships is empowering. Armed with this awareness, you can start to develop more effective coping strategies that center on self-care and emotional health, rather than seeking external fixes. I hope this book impacts you as profoundly as it did me. It is worth every page—or listen.

If you enjoy my blogs, you can explore a wealth of information on my website, where all my archived articles are available. There’s also a more in-depth version of this article on emotionally immature people that I’m sure will fascinate you. Additionally, my site features a handy search box for those curious about any medication, health condition, or herbal remedy I’ve covered. Just visit 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.

Angelic Health’s Patient-Centered Comprehensive Care is a Phone Call Away Call us for a free, no-obligation evaluation 732-664-4909

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

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

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

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

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

is expected to double to 8.9 million by the year 2030.

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

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling. If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse call the trial attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

NJ Friends Of Clearwater October Happenings

NEW JERSEY – NJFC is looking for volunteers to join their team for Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps, October 19. Please email njcwfestdirector@yahoo. com for information to register.

NJFC has Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends Passes for your shopping pleasure. Passes are $5 each and NJFC keeps that $5 as your donation. Redeemable on October 22 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at any

Boscov Store. In store or online, there’s 25% savings. Contact NJFC at info@ njclearwater.org, 732-784-3008 for more information.

NJ Friends of Clearwater (NJFC) is having a Fundraiser on October 30 at Chick-Fil-A 1613 Hwy 34, Ocean Township (Oakhurst) from 5 to 8 p.m. Be sure when ordering in store or by mobile app to give the code “NJFRIENDS” (all caps).

Register Now For The Fall Fest Cornhole Tourney

BRICK – Calling all cornhole champs! Get ready to show off your skills at the Fall Fest Cornhole Tournament? Gather your best teammate and get ready for some friendly competition!

The Tournament is two-person teams, ages 18 and over. Single elimination

games to 21. Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. The cost is $10 per team (only one person needs to register).

Don’t miss out on the fun! Test your aim, and let’s see who takes home the bragging rights! Register on Community Pass.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Th is Heavyweight Is An Ecosystem Engineer

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Where you fi nd water, you’ll fi nd beavers. Exceptionally well adapted to watery habitats, they are well suited to move about effortlessly through their freshwater ecosystems. Their fl at paddle-like tail, webbed feet, along with elevated eyes and ears, are only a few of their magnificent specializations that beavers exhibit. They are the largest rodent in North America and Europe. They control woodlands, direct the streams, and in doing so provide for an incredible diversity of organisms.

Beavers have a lifespan of up to 12 years in the wild, with 30 years in captivity. They occupy streams, rivers, lakes and estuaries in wooden areas. Their predators include humans, wolves, foxes, coyotes, and large predatory birds. There are only two species of beaver, the North American beaver and the Eurasian beaver.

Some fun facts – beavers are the second-largest living rodent; they pull heavy loads and carry objects. From their butts (yes, butts) they make castor oil which comes from their back end where small glands are found. Fluid that smells like vanilla (yes, vanilla) smells so good that this juice has been used in vanilla food flavorings. While the damage they cause to their environment is enormous, the ben-

efits are creating biodiversity, increasing plants and animal species’ diversity on land and in water. A beaver’s teeth are super strong, never break or stop growing, so hard things are needed to keep them in shape. They communicate using their tails and they can stay submerged under water for 6 to 8 minutes.

Providing ecosystem services, they are hugely beneficial to the people who live around them. Fertilizing the flood plains, while trapping greenhouse gases and various pollutants, they stimulate biodiversity, creating new habitats for lots of wildlife. In fact, ecologists consider them a keystone species.

In the early 14th century global populations of beavers were almost hunted to extinction. Fur hats were made, until cheaper furs were used. With reintroduction, their numbers have been successfully reintroduced.

April 7 each year is International Beavers Day! Now that’s something to celebrate! 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.

Toms River’s 85th Halloween Parade

TOMS RIVER – The 85th Halloween Parade will be held on October 31 at 7 p.m. If the parade is postponed, it will be November 1 at 7 p.m.

The participants are to be at the Toms River Shopping Center no later than 6 p.m. Walkers on Highland Parkway. Participants must register is person at the fi rehouse on Robbins Street in Toms River. Registration Times: October 31 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parade Route: Start is on Highland Parkway at the intersection of Main Street. The parade travels south on Main Street turning

left onto Washington Street Everyone will enter route from Highland Parkway. The parade ends at the intersection of Washington Street and Hooper Avenue.

Group Leaders, please inform all of your participants in your group that they are in a walking or a float division. Let them know the letter and number of the group. Division A - Highland Parkway.

For additional information contact the firehouse at 732-349-0144 Tuesday evenings (leave message other times). More information at Facebook.com/trfchalloweenparade.

Free Rabies Vaccination Clinics

OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County

Animal Facilities in Jackson and Manahawkin offer free rabies vaccination clinics for your pet. By appointment only.

Jackson (Northern OCAF) 1st and 3rd

Wednesday of each month: 732-657-8086

Manahawkin (Southern OCAF) 2nd and 4th

Wednesday of each month: 609-978-0127

Clinics run from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.,

• Over 1,000 to Choose From

• Sizes: 12x9 Thru 12x30

• Installation Within 72 Hours

• Carpet Binding Available

and they take a total of 60 appointments per clinic. There is a maximum of four pets per person.

Cats and dogs only, kittens need to be at least three pounds for vaccination, and puppies need to be at least 12 weeks of age. Dogs must be restrained on a properly fitting collar or harness and leash. Cats need to be secured in a carrier.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Tech Will Predict And Reduce Outages

NEW JERSEY – FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) is among the first in the electric utility industry to deploy a new program that helps predict and reduce tree-related outages before they occur across the company’s six-state service area. The company’s vegetation management team engineered the AI-driven program to calculate where trees pose the most risk to the electric system, particularly ahead of winter and summer storm seasons.

Known as the Advanced Vegetation Analytics Tool (AVAT), the prediction model pulls data – including soil, weather, roadway, historical outage data, geographical typography and high-resolution aerial patrol photos – from several internal and external databases. The data sets work together to identify patterns and calculate the likelihood of a tree coming down on a power line or equipment to ensure problematic trees are swiftly addressed.

FirstEnergy explains the new AVAT tool and how it’s being used across the company’s footprint in a video clip on the company’s YouTube channel.

Trees are the leading cause of power outages across the entire electric utility industry. FirstEnergy’s service territory in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, West Virginia and a small portion of New York encompasses some of the most densely forested areas in the country, with terrain varying from urban areas and flat agricultural land to rugged mountainous conditions more than 3,000 feet in elevation. These widely varying

POINT PLEASANT – Join the Point Pleasant Beach Recreation Committee for a Halloween Movie Night on October 25 at The Bandshell, the corner of Arnold and Halloween

Tyler Woody, General Manager of Distribution Vegetation Management Operations at FirstEnergy: “Not only is this tool helping us to keep the electricity flowing safely and reliably to our customers, but it is also helping us manage crews and our budget more efficiently. By using this data tool to study the type of vegetation conditions in each area and the proximity to our power lines, we can better recommend the right type of equipment crews and contractors will need to bring with them to trim the first time they go out.”

The new AVAT tool complements FirstEnergy’s comprehensive annual vegetation management methods, which involve professional tree crews assessing vegetation across the service area to determine the best approach to prevent trees from interfering with electrical facilities. In addition, the company conducts proactive aerial inspections of transmission and distribution lines using helicopters equipped with infrared and ultraviolet technology. This work helps ensure that high-voltage power lines and equipment remain clear of trees and vegetation that cannot be observed from the ground inspections.

Based on inspection findings, the company may use aerial saws, mechanical equipment or a combination of methods to control the vegetation. Crews also trim trees along FirstEnergy’s rights-of-way on a four-year cycle.

Movie Night

Baltimore Avenue.

Movie: Hocus Pocus; movie starts at 7 p.m. Bring your own blankets and chairs! Residents and non-residents welcome.

Photo courtesy FirstEnergy conditions can make vegetation management a challenge.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

180 Receives $25K From Horizon

Blue Cross Blue Shield Of NJ

HAZLET – 180 Turning Lives Around received a grant from Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey for $25,000 to fund 180 Turning Lives Around in Hazlet. The donation made through The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey will fund the New Jersey statewide 2NDFLOOR Youth Helpline. CEO Liz Graham said, “We appreciate The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey and their generous investment in 180 Turning Lives Around and our statewide 2NDFLOOR Youth Helpline. The Foundation’s commitment to the mental health of our youth is praiseworthy. We are grateful for the support and know

their gift will tremendously improve the mental health of our youth in New Jersey.”

“Horizon is pleased to support the important work by 180 Turning Lives Around and the 2NDFLOOR Youth Helpline,” said Jonathan R. Pearson, Executive Director of The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. “The 2NDFLOOR Youth Helpline aligns with our commitment to expanding access to health for those individuals in need of mental health support and other community services. The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey works across New Jersey with our grantee partners to make New Jersey healthier.”

Model Railroaders Fall Open House

LAKEWOOD – The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, at 502 Country Club Road, Pine Park, Lakewood, is holding its Fall Open House, on October 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and October 27 from 12 to 5 p.m. at the Lakewood Historical Museum also known as the Sheldon Wolpin Historical Museum. Admission is free but donations are always gladly accepted.

Visitors to the Open House will see both modern and traditional trains running continuously. Ted Bertiger, president of The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, said, “We will have trains running for all ages. Come see our train club in action!”

For more information, contact Ted Bertiger 732-688-1184 or at captnkraft@aol. com. Also visit ocsmr.com.

Grief Counseling Groups

OCEAN COUNTY – Grief Counseling Groups throughout Ocean County provided Rev. Dr. Anthony Lipari, FCM. Last week of every month at:

Monday 1 p.m. – Ocean County Memorial Park -Waretown

Tuesday 1 p.m. – Tim Ryan Funeral Home Fischer Boulevard - Toms River

Wednesday 1 p.m. – Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home-Mule Road -Toms River

Thursday 1 p.m. – Anderson Campbell

Funeral Home Ridgeway BoulevardManchester Friday 1 p.m. – Manchester Memorial Home - Whiting

Rev Dr Lipari, FCM, A Franciscan Friar, has served the Ocean County are for over 21 years in ministry to the terminally ill and the grieving. All groups are free and donations are welcomed. Call Fr. Anthony at 732-349-6797 for more information.

Hospice Volunteers Looking For Craft Supplies

BRICK – Much like Santa’s elves, as the holiday season approaches, hospice volunteers are working on gifts for patients. Angelic Health Hospice Volunteers are in need of yarn, Mod Podge glue, pine cones about 3 to 4 inches, 2-inch burlap

BRICK – Complete Care at Shorrock Gardens will be holding a Thanksgiving Drive Thru on November 20 from 1 to 4 p.m. at 75 Old Toms River Road, Brick. Menu: roast turkey with dressing cranberTh anksgiving

ribbon and word search and crossword books.

If you have any of these items to donate, contact Kathy Donadio, volunteer coordinator at 609-432-0073, or email her at kdonadio@angelichospice.net.

Drive Th ru

ry sauce, corn bread stuffi ng, fresh yams, whole green beans, biscuit, pumpkin pie. Just drive up to the front doors. No need to get out of your car. Call the front desk by November 13 to order meals: 732-451-1000.

Personals

Senior Single Males 75+ - Wanted for female friendship. High standards, good character, have a heart for seniors. Leave message 732-678-6786. (43)

Auto For Sale

1979 Plymouth Volare - 5/qnt, 6 cyl., auto, 53953. Original owner, silver with red interior. No rust. Good tires. $5K. Bob 732-774-9000. (43)

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)

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

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

Help Wanted

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)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

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

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)

Handyman Small jobs - Painting, powerwash, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call 732-859-9266. (44)

Looking for a home health aid or family assistant for your loved one?

Call today to get started. 24/7 or hourly assistance with daily tasks: meal preparation, errands, light housekeeping, driving to appointments, personal care, emotional and physical support...No agency fees or commitment, you can choose the right candidate without any hidden fees. 732-9108869. elenpaposh@gmail.com. (45)

ANGEL APPLIANCE REPAIR732-403-6975. 50+ years serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Senior owned and operated. INSURED, RELIABLE AND HONEST. (47)

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

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (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)

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)

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONSAll 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)

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)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13VH10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! Servicing Toms River, Lakehurst, Manchester, Whiting, Jackson, New Egypt, Plumstead Beachwood, Bayville, Berkeley. (47)

Adult Care Provider - Filipino Woman seeking live-in job as home healthcare provider for elderly with 10 years experience, with excellent reference. Please call 973-454-6818. (46)

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

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)

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)

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. (44)

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)

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three 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)

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

• Mail 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.

Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

Auto For Sale

Items For Sale

Items Wanted

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.

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)

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (43)

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

Calculate Price As Follows:

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $

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

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203.

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

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Cemetery Invites You To A Tour By Lantern Light

LAKEWOOD – If you are interested in learning about the rich history of Lakewood and some of her famous and infamous former residents, this one-and-a-half-hour cemetery tour might be for you.

Join OCHS Board member Bill Linke as he guides you through Woodlawn Cemetery, a site chock full of history. The tour will take place on October 25 at 6 p.m. and on October 26 at 11 p.m. Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the tour.

The cemetery was founded in 1872 by a group of prominent Lakewood gentlemen. It contains the graves of a Medal of Honor winner, captains of local industry, Civil War and Spanish American War veterans, mayors, police officers, and many local interesting figures. This is a much-needed fundraiser to preserve the grounds of historic Woodlawn. Woodlawn is located at Courtney Road and Clifton Avenue in Lakewood. The cost is only $10 in advance or $15 at the

door. RSVP with Robin at 732-330-5384. In addition, 50-50 tickets will be for sale, with the drawing that afternoon. Please make sure to visit the very popular OCHS baked goods table, which always seems to sell out! The Boy Scouts will be back with their snack stand serving hot dogs, soft drinks and other assorted items. Ocean County Cultural and Heritage will again be sponsoring the Ocean County History and Culture Pavilion. Here many historical societies set up displays that help tell the rich history of

Ocean County. This year we will be featuring renowned Pine Barrons author William Lewis, who will be doing a book signing.

Best of all, there is absolutely no admission fee!

Vendor 8’ tables are still available for a fee of $50. Two chairs will also be included. For vendor information, or general questions, contact Joseph at rjl072001@gmail.com or 732-998-5934. You may also visit the OCHS website for contracts and general information.

OCC Has New Transfer Options With Stockton

TOMS RIVER – Students in four majors at Ocean County College can now seamlessly transfer to Stockton University’s four-year programs as part of a new memorandum of understanding signed by the schools.

“We are very excited to build on the strong partnership between Stockton and

Ocean County College,” said Stockton President Joe Bertolino. “Today we are expanding on our Transfer Pathways agreement that has been in place for more than five years by adding new program-to-program articulations in several high-demand majors.”

“Ocean County College is extremely

proud to expand our partnership with Stockton University,” said OCC President Pamela Monaco. “Working together, we will provide exciting new opportunities for our students, encouraging them to pursue their goals and helping to remove the barriers that prevent them from fi nding success. I am greatly looking forward to

our continued collaboration and excited for the future of our students.”

The agreement calls for a 3+1 pathway partnership agreement for OCC majors in Accounting, Marketing and Business Administration to Stockton’s School of Business and a 2+2 pathway for OCC’s Social Work major to Stockton’s School of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

“This 3+1 program with Ocean County College helps to further reduce transfer credit loss and provides a clear pathway for students to capture credits while further reducing their financial burden,” said Warren Kleinsmith, the dean of Stockton’s School of Business.

Kleinsmith said the model will allow students to earn their associate’s degree, earn up to 90 Ocean County College credits and complete an extra year at Ocean County taking Stockton-level courses at the county college tuition rate. Then they would transfer their three years of coursework and complete their fi nal year at Stockton at the four-year university’s tuition rate and earn a baccalaureate degree.

“This collaborative model minimizes transfer risk, fi nancial costs, and sets our learners up for success,” Kleinsmith said. The social work pathway partnership will allow Ocean County College students to earn an associate’s degree, then transfer to Stockton and after two years of coursework earn a Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree from Stockton.

“In social work, we believe in meeting people where they are,” said Stockton Social Work Professor Merydawilda Colon. “This seamless transition should also make social work students’ bachelor’s degree completion cost-effective.” Ocean County College students in the program will receive conditional dual admission to Stockton beginning their fi rst year of an associated degree program. The benefits of that arrangement include joint advising with both Stockton and Ocean County College and availability to apply for designated scholarships.

For more information, contact Stockton University Admissions at 609-652-4261 or admissions@stockton.edu, or Ocean County College Admissions at 732-2550482 or hub@ocean.edu.

BRICK – Join on October 27 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for a fun-filled Community Trunkor-Treat at Living Faith Bible Church filled with candy, games, music, smores station, and more!

Living Faith Bible Church is located at 1595 Route 88 in Brick.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Photographer Scott Nevins is at it again with a great submission to our Photo of the Week Feature. He was able to catch the Route 72 Causeway Bridge connecting Manahawkin to Long Beach Island with Mother Nature putting on quite the sky show. Stunning!! Have a pic you would like to see in this space? Email photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may hear from us.

OCC Foundation Hosts Annual Golf Classic

TOMS RIVER – Join the Ocean County College Foundation for its 23rd Annual Golf Classic at the Pine Barrens Golf Club in Jackson on October 15. Enjoy a day on the green while supporting the students of Ocean County!

The outing is held each year to assist the Foundation in its mission to make higher education more accessible to Ocean County residents through scholarships and awards. By providing students with excellent educational opportunities, the Foundation and its supporters open a new world of possibilities for them, paving the way for their future success.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors and golfers for their incredible

support. Your commitment and involvement are vital to the success of our event and play a crucial role in enhancing the educational experiences of our students,” said Michael B. York, Chair of the Foundation’s Annual Golf Outing. “Your dedication helps us move closer to achieving our mission. Thank you for your invaluable contribution.”

Registration, brunch, and use of the driving range will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 11 a.m. The tournament will conclude with a buffet awards reception at 4 p.m. The event will take place rain or shine. Various levels of sponsorship and participation are available. To register as a player or sponsor, visit go.ocean.edu/golf or contact the OCC Foundation office at 732-255-0492.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Epithet

6 Econ. indicators 10 Sp. title

14 Loud item in a closet

16 Easily manipulated type

17 Study buddies, often

18 Natl. law group whose “M” is largely obsolete

19 Picnic serving

20 Prandial pokers

21 Cool veggies?

22 Café de __: Mexican drink brewed in a pot

23 Arduous tasks

25 Like some premium services

28 Scrapped

31 On the offensive, legally

32 It’s not a side road

33 Skin lotion

autobiographer

Dump

Hold-up group?

Like some milk,

Watch with a webcam, perhaps

Italy’s Lake __

“How many licks

it take ... ?” treat

on a fjord

Up one day, down the next

Down

1 Spike 2 Ragù __ Bolognese

3 Leaner alternative to pork

4 “What?” utterances

5 Anchor’s responsibility

6 Akufo-Addo’s land

7 Marquee evening

8 Continuous newsroom operations

9 Familiar gp. of 50

10 Facetious metaphor for a difficult situation

11 Mountain dangers

12 Big volume

13 They didn’t stop Hannibal

15 Alfred E. Neuman feature

21 Bop on the bean

22 Aptly named jazz work co-written by Charlie “Bird” Parker 24 When repeated, acclaimed Chinese

“I’m here to help”

Expected

Inexperienced one

Legal orders

Two before marzo

Fog word

Pilots start them

Twice-baked

Squirt 38 Metal named for a planet 40 Not pleased 42 In half 43 Shallows craft 44 Social science course, briefly

Gene __ 47 Prom style, often 48 Turned some ground 49 Active 51 Ontario-based music gp.

52 Self-described “non-musician” Brian

(c)2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Your networking efforts can result in golden opportunities during the week ahead. You may feel pressured to spend money or adapt to new technologies. Friends and reliable advisers may help you make wise decisions.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : Clear planning may help you to direct your energies in the right direction in the week to come. An issue about joint finances or possessions may be confusing. All the wrinkles should be able to be ironed out.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): This can be an excellent week to make promises and commitments because other people should want to cooperate. Your judgment and astute observations might help you make a favorable impression on others.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You may enjoy having your possessions in the week to come, but you are also likely willing to share your material blessings. This is a great week to make a favorable impression on new friends or to participate in group activities.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Your ability to communicate with loved ones may improve as this week unfolds. Other people might be glad to hear your advice due to your charitable attitudes. This is probably a good week to use your influence to ask for favors.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Let your friendliness shine brightly. If you prove yourself to be an eager participant in interactive activities, you could impress even the most rational thinkers. Make realistic family decisions in the week ahead.

FOR THE WEEK OF SEPT 28 - OCT 4 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your initiative and enthusiasm can give you an advantage. In a few days your good judgment should be obvious. When you see an opportunity to improve your situation in the week ahead you may want to accept it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): This is a great week to concentrate on forming enduring relationships and improving existing alliances. It might be easier than usual to discuss joint plans or to easily execute them without rocking the boat.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your efforts to make your dreams a reality could confuse family members. To avoid scattering your energies like confetti, wait until the middle of the week, when you possibly have better judgment, to make major decisions.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In the week ahead strive to achieve a balance between doing what is right and doing whatever is necessary to succeed. Your material ambitions could be put on hold when you see an opportunity to be helpful.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Concentrate on achieving clarity by taking time to tune in in the week to come. You may bump into people who may seem unpredictable or controlling but can probably find common ground and arrive at a satisfactory compromise.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You may be at your best in the upcoming week when you can interact with friends and are welcomed as a member of a group. Your people skills can be in top form but an attempt at a new romance could fall short of the mark.

AND SPICE MAKE THIS PUMPKIN BREAD EXTRA NICE

By America’s Test Kitchen