How The Jersey Shore Prepares For Hu icane Season Hughes Or Leggio? Mayoral Candidates Speak Out
Photo courtesy AmeriCorps
Homes like this one in Union Beach in Monmouth County were devastated by Superstorm Sandy.
By Alyssa Riccardi
NEW JERSEY – Twelve years ago, on October 29, 2012, Superstorm Sandy ravaged through New Jersey. It was the worst in the state’s history to make direct landfall to the shoreline. Fast forward to the year 2024. Hurricanes have wreaked havoc throughout the southern parts of the country.
As New Jersey marks Hurricane Preparedness Month and the peak of hurricane season, it’s important to be prepared as the risks from these storms have increased as a result of climate change, officials said. So, what have we learned from Superstorm Sandy? And is our community prepared to take on another massive storm?
Ocean County Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy, who is also the County’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Coordinator, reflected on the devastating time.
“I was Chief of Police in Toms River when Superstorm Sandy hit, and we certainly learned a lot of lessons from that,” Mastronardy said. “We didn’t expect
Farm Event Ordinance Under Fire
By Liz Ciocher HOWELL – Farmers
and farming advocates have begun speaking up to the Howell Town Council regarding their concerns for their safety and ability to stay afloat. At a recent council meeting, five members of the public addressed the council as farm owners, members of the farmer’s adviso-
ry committee, former farm owners or relatives of farm owners. They expressed concern about certain ordinances that they feel restrict their business.
“Suddenly, the town is concerned with overseeing every aspect of the farming business, claiming it for safety reasons,” said RoseMarie Burd, a previ-
ous farm owner and member of the public.
“We question what safety issues [caused concern]. There was none reported. All of us carry farm insurance that protects ourselves from any accidents that may occur.”
One of the specific ordinances that are a main issue for these residents include a ‘Special
Occasion Event Ordinance,’ which allows the township to limit the number of attendees at certain farming events or provide other limitations. It is currently under mediation.
According to the farmers, this ordinance majorly impacts their financial stability. Their public events provide supplemental fi nances
that are used to pay bills during the winter off season.
“We do need these [events], whether you consider them special events, workshops, Girl Scout trips, whatever we’re doing, it’s always about supplementing the income,” said Theresa Reed, who filed mediation for the ordinance,
By Liz Ciocher
HOWELL – This upcoming election, two Howell residents are running for mayor – John Leggio and John Hughes. Both representing different political parties, The Howell Times gave both gentlemen a chance to advocate for themselves as well as to answer a few questions about their beliefs and how they see themselves in the mayoral position. These questions asked for information about their past as well as how they see Howell’s future. They were also prompted to respond with what they believe are the biggest issues in town, and how they plan to resolve them. Their responses have been condensed and grammatically edited for use in this article.
John Hughes (Democrat)
Hughes works as a Director of Corporate Compliance and Ethics for a major civil engineering firm based in New York City. Here, he does work investigating fraud, waste, abuse, and corruption for both the government and private sectors.
He does not have any experience in public office, but has been active in civic groups as a coach for youth sports as well as a board member on the Howell Democratic Club. Hughes listed a few issues in Howell he feels strongly about, including warehouse development in commercial areas, tax burdens on families, lack of affordable homes for seniors and young families, unregulated rental properties, and a reputation of bad business. To combat these issues, Hughes provided these solutions:
(Hurricane - See Page 4) (Farm - See Page 3) (Candidates - See Page 3)
Warehouse development: “We need to reopen our Master Plan and use common sense when zoning to avoid heavy commercial traffic on local roads and keep them in the areas that are supported by multi-lane highways. We also need builders concessions on all of these projects so that the developer is contributing to infrastructure changes required and requiring renewable energy be included
Candidates:
Continued From Page 1
to limit the disruption of our overburdened power grid.”
Tax burdens on families: “First thing we need to do is cut spending where appropriate, but cuts will only help so much, we need to fi x our ratable issues. Too much commercial property is sitting vacant on Route 9 and we need to get that fi xed.”
He also states that considering marijuana business could provide fi nancial assistance to Howell.
Lack of affordable homes for seniors/ young families: Along with suggesting the revamp of some smaller abandoned homes in the areas for young families, “We need
Farm:
Continued From Page 1
in another public comment. “The way the ordinances are written, they give the town complete control. I hate to say it, but I feel like it’s Nazi Germany here. They are able to shut us down at any point in time.”
Also present at the council meeting was Matt Howard, director of community development, and Joseph Clark, township manager.
“Three ordinances have been put forward by administration to council, and all three of them, I think, would have been approved. We are in mediation of these ordinances, so I won’t say much, but we could’ve had a year of experiences to draw upon,” Howard said
to work with developers that are willing to come into our town and build an affordable senior living community.”
Unregulated rental properties: “We need to rewrite our ordinances to include any property that is owned by a business [to include] all occupants must be registered on the property, change of residents necessitates a new inspection and CO and annual inspections to protect the community and the occupants.”
Bad business reputation: “Council needs to lead the charge in attracting business back into Howell and working with the existing businesses to figure out what we can do better.”
In regards to any new or additional changes he would like to make to the town, Hughes
in response to the many public comments.
According to Clark, the township has been working closely with both the farmers and state to make sure all their ordinances are consistent with state law and county board requirements.
“A comment was made that ‘we can’t do anything unless we are permitted by ordinance,’ and that’s why we’re here,” Howard said. “If [something] is not in the ordinance and it’s not permitted, that’s the law. We have ordinances. If we’re not going to follow them, nobody is going to follow them.”
“The comment was made that the township wants to go carp launch and be able to do anything. No, the township wants to enforce their ordinances. Whether it’s the number of
would like to reintroduce the Local Ethics Board as well as reevaluate some parks and fields for more consistent use in youth sports.
John Leggio (Republican) Leggio was the owner and operator of a landscaping business for 25 years. In 2022, he closed and sold the business for health reasons.
While he has no experience in civic groups, Leggio has served two terms on the Howell Planning Board since 2019.
According to Leggio, Howell’s biggest issues concern overwhelming rental properties, as well as the distribution of property taxes.
“There are a few bad actors putting
people attending, the setup for attendance, a site plan setup for lighting or noise, the township wants to be able to enforce those,” Howard said. “What the group of people that are talking about this ordinance [are looking for] is carp launch on their side.”
Council members that were present for the meeting with additional comments included Councilman Fred Gasior and Councilwoman Susan Fischer.
“The whole, ‘[council] doesn’t care’ thing - that’s not correct. We told [the board], ‘try to give them as much as you can, but don’t put the town at risk, don’t violate any laws or regulations.’”
Gasior and Fischer also spoke about meetings between the community development board
multiple families in single family homes, overwhelming the roadways in certain neighborhoods, overwhelming our school system and creating safety concerns for first responders in the event of an emergency. The other issue continues to be property taxes with more than half of our taxes going towards our school systems,” he said. To combat these issues, Leggio said: “I believe we need to be more transparent with the public about projects and we need more accountability with our unelected administration when it comes to dealing with our residents and their concerns. I feel the mayor appointments to land use boards and committees should not be made by an unelected manager and must be returned to the mayor.”
Farmers committee, where they were both under the impression things were going well.
“I was in awe that the township would actually collaborate at such lengths with the citizens. My understanding was that that didn’t necessarily even have to happen. The collaboration has been ongoing,” said Fischer. While the ordinance is still currently in mediation, the comments from the public and board will be documented and taken for consideration.
“We are not going to pass ordinances that are being challenged, and that’s where we are right now. We are trying to create a streamline site plan approval process so there is less cost but still maximum protection for citizens,” Clark said.
Hurricane:
Continued From Page 1
it to hit the mainland the way it did – that wasn’t in the game plan. I don’t think we were prepared for that as far as evacuations, etc.”
Since Superstorm Sandy, Ocean County has made contingency plans. A major initiative has been the ongoing efforts to replenish our beaches, which has helped on the oceanside of the county. However, it does not help the bayside
if water begins to rise.
“While we took precautions on the oceanside to prevent some of the flooding coming through, the back bays were coming up. Unfortunately, you can’t build a barrier along every inch of lagoon that we have on the bayside,” Mastronardy said.
Mastronardy explained how elevating homes in certain parts of the county will have less of an impact on any future storms than it did during Sandy.
“If you look over at the bayside of the barrier island, the majority of the homes all have been either torn down, elevated, etc., so that at different flood levels you won’t get the sustainable damage, which also means you won’t get the trash that we had to get rid of. That’s a good thing,” Mastronardy said. “So, mitigating the elevation has changed the dynamics of the impact of a superstorm such as Sandy.” Superstorm Sandy forced not only Ocean and Monmouth counties, but the entire state to
review and change storm plans.
“From an OEM standpoint, our rescue operations have totally changed. We’ve got new equipment. We’ve got better plans to get people out of harm’s way if in fact flooding does take place,” Mastronardy said. “Before a storm, we used to do fly overs, and now we have a lot of drone equipment. A lot of resources with drones that could actually evaluate before and after, and we routinely do that with any storm.”
In 2022, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office introduced a state-of-the-art vehicle for water-based rescues. The ATV known as “SHERP” can plow through ice, mud and marshes, and will be used perform life-saving rescues. The Sheriff’s Office also now use jetskis to navigate tight areas and small waterways. “I think we learn something every time we have a shelter in place. Hopefully there would be less people being displaced because of the mitigation impact we did with raising the homes and the codes. But as always, whatever the cause, we do have shelters,” Mastronardy said.
The county has also purchased some repetitive loss properties, to keep as open space, in places such as Good Luck Point in Berkeley, that were at risk of constant flooding. Doing this has two benefits. It creates a natural barrier to slow tides. It also keeps people out of living in places that are dangerous.
In Monmouth County, many coastal towns suffered from extreme flooding. The storm left a path of destruction, with debris scattered everywhere.
“Hurricane preparedness is about planning ahead - not just for a storm, but for the days and weeks that follow. The best time to prepare is before warnings are issued, since readiness today means resilience tomorrow,” said Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden, who oversees the OEM. “The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, specifically the Office of Emergency Management, works year-round and collaborates with various agencies to ensure that Monmouth County is prepared when it comes to safeguarding our communities and residents, should a major weather event strike.”
Monmouth County has established a Hurricane Emergency Plan which is reviewed and updated annually, focusing on roles, responsibilities, and communication between agencies. Since Sandy, Monmouth County OEM has implemented “Know your Zone” to educate residents, visitors and businesses about coastal evacuation zones.
“I’ll tell you where we weren’t and that is in our new Operation Center. We wish we had it during Superstorm Sandy,” Golden said. “We went through hours, days, and weeks in our old Emergency Operations Center. We have certainly come a long way with regard to the upgrades of technology and operational planning.”
About 2,300 who were displaced due to Sandy were sheltered at Monmouth University. Out of those people, the majority were seniors. STORM (Seniors Taking On Readiness Measures) was created to equip this vulnerable community with preparedness information, a family disaster plan, and an emergency kit. After 12 years, Ocean and Monmouth OEM have worked hard and are prepared if another “Superstorm Sandy” were to make its way through the community.
“We are light years ahead of where we were when we got hit by Sandy – with a lot of help from the County Commissioners and the public,” Mastronardy said. “We’re prepared as we can be.”
OPINIONS & COMMENTARY
EDITORIAL
States To Watch In November – Part 6
In this fi nal installment of this exhaustive look at the exhausting 2024 election, we’re going to focus on some so-called “swing states” as well as some minor elections that might normally be lost in the confusion.
I think it’s funny that a lot of states are being called “battleground” or “swing” states because they normally vote Democrat but voted for Trump in 2016. Trump’s popularity - and Clinton’s unpopularitywere anomalies. I think the political surface has evened out since then and the states are closer to their predictable ways. It’s also important to remember that 2016 had several strong 3rd party candidates: Libertarian Gary Johnson, Green
Jill Stein and independent Bernie Sanders. Those three muddied the waters and acted as spoilers. Before we get to our one true swing state, let’s take some quick looks at a few states that have interesting things happening in them but not so interesting that they warrant a full entry.
Maryland - Democrat Ben Cardin is not running for re-election for the Senate and it’s surprisingly competitive. Republicans think they have a chance at fl ipping the seat but the state has a solid history of voting for Democrats so it’s not likely.
Nebraska - Nebraska awards one Electoral College vote each to its two congressional districts, and the 2nd District has split
from the rest of the reliably conservative state. Donald Trump won the district in 2016, but lost it to Joe Biden in 2020. The district is leaning in polls toward Kamala Harris this year. Basically, a lot of people will be talking about this 1 vote on election night. Whatever.
Texas - When researching, I noticed that a lot of websites had Texas as “leans Republican” or something of that nature, instead of the deep red that we actually know it to be. This is because in 2018, Senator Ted Cruz beat Democrat Beto O’Rourke only 4,260,553 to 4,045,632. The closeness of this election led people to speculate that Texas is almost a swing state. But 2018 had the Blue Wave. Also, O’Rourke was an
extremely popular candidate facing off against an extremely unpopular Cruz. Cruz is up for re-election again this year, up against a fairly popular Colin Allred, but Cruz will probably be carried by Trump voters to victory.
Virginia - People are calling Virginia a battleground state but I don’t see it. The state has voted for Democrats for president - even when that Democrat was Hillary Clinton - for the last four cycles. Clinton’s VP pick, Tim Kaine, is up for re-election to the senate this year and is predicted to have a huge win over the Republicans’ relatively unknown candidate, Hung Cao. My prediction is that on election night a lot of people on your TV are going to be talking about Virginia for no good reason.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
North Carolina
Unlike other states, North Carolina is actually a swing state in every sense of the world. In 2020, they voted in a Democrat for governor, a Republican for lieutenant governor, and Trump for president. North Carolina was the only state in which Trump won with less than 50% of the vote. He beat Biden by just 74,483 votes.
The Democrat governor won re-election by a much larger margin of 248,185 votes. Crazy.
And speaking of crazy, the gubernatorial election is looking pretty insane and might have some repercussions.
North Carolinians actually elect their governor and lieutenant governor in separate spots on the ballot. This is why the governor is a Democrat and the lieutenant
is a Republican. The winner of the lieutenant governor election in 2020 was Mark Robinson, and he’s running for governor this year. I’m not going to get into some of the statements that have been attributed to him, but if you want to Google it, go right ahead. The point is, it’s looking bad for him. The Democrat he’s up against is the attorney general, who has popularity and a fraction of the scandal.
North Carolina’s two senators are Republicans. Neither are up for re-election. So, the state is trending Republican, but it’ll be late into the night before any news programs call this state and its 16 Electoral Votes.
Chris Lundy Editor
The celebration of Brick Medical Center’s 40 th anniversary has a special and personal meaning for me. On October 27, 2023 I suffered a life-threatening aortic rupture. All the symptoms were indicative of a heart attack, or other cardiac issues. Paramedics transported me, unconscious, to Brick Hospital’s
ER. Dr. Muhammed Raza diagnosed my condition as an aortic “rupture.” He called for rapid deployment, Hackensack Meridian’s emergency transport helicopter. Still unconscious, I was flown to University of Pennsylvania-Philadelphia. The medical flight crew attempted to stabilize me as I was experiencing a life-threatening situation. The helicopter crew ensured that I was handed off
The Howell 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.
to University of Pennsylvania medical personnel.
On October 28, 2023, I underwent a 7-hour operation at the hands of Dr. Kendall Lawrence. The ascending aorta had “ruptured,” entailing an aortic dissection. I was in a medically induced coma for 5 days, and then 2 weeks in the Intensive Care Unit. After my release, I spent 2 weeks at Encompass Rehabilitative Facility.
I was able to be home for Thanksgiving Day. Survival rates for such as I experienced are miniscule. Were it not for the care of the fi rst responders – getting me to Brick ER, the diagnosis by Dr. Raza and his medical team, led by Dr. Lawrence at U Penn, the nursing care for 2 weeks, and then the rehabilitative therapy at Encompass…were it not for them, I would not be here today.
The help of neighbors, friends, and family – their assistance, their prayers, and the grace of God pulled
me through. Hackensack Meridian’s helicopter saved my life. Had I not been transported to U Penn as rapidly as I was, I would not have survived.
I thank ALL those that had a hand in my survival. Every one of them played an integral part in keeping me alive.
My deepest appreciation goes out to the teams that kept me on this side of the grass.
Domenick Bizzarro Brick
Stop
Normalizing Trump
Isn’t it about time for media editors, journalists, writers and news readers to cease and desist their normalizing Donald Trump and his thoughts, words and deeds!
These so-called professional journalists virtually kicked Joe Biden out of the presidential race for
age-related impairments, although he remains a well-functioning President.
Simultaneously, these media people ignore the fact that Donald Trump is now the oldest person ever to have run for the office of president in the history of the United States of America! Obviously, he will continue to age as he sits in the Oval Office, with no intention of stepping down at the completion of his term of office in 2028. Will America endure a dictator in his 90s?
The media in general have abandoned all semblance of fairness and impartiality... due perhaps to the entertainment value of Trump’s appearances and rants. The moderators of the debate between Trump and Harris tried valiantly to get a straight answer or any answer at all from Trump, even while conscientiously requesting information and specifics of her policies from Harris. Donald Trump has successfully demol-
ished the concept and reality of normalcy. The media has accepted the abnormal in Trump - and he gets passes for all his errors of judgment - yet expects his opponent to deliver cogent and compelling data! But the worst repudiation of journalistic responsibility is pretending that Trump is fully functional mentally. Any other person who thinks, acts and speaks as he does - heavy on the anger and threats of vengeance but incapable of delivering a clear sentence with accurate details - would be tagged as mentally ill.
Well, friends, Donald Trump is mentally ill, incapable of telling the truth, paranoid, spewing hatred, bordering on sadistic personality yet believing himself to be greatest man in human history!
Who votes for an insane person? Those who share his insanity!
Patricia Barr Lakewood
Celebrating Brick Hospital
S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Bill To Fund Summer Tuition Aid Grants Becomes Law
TRENTON - Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Robert Singer (R-30) that would fund summer tuition aid grants (TAG) was signed into law by Governor Murphy.
“As tuition rates continue to rise, this bill makes a critical investment in fi nancial aid, empowering students to reach their academic goals faster with less debt,” said Sen. Singer.
Governor Murphy for signing this bill to support students in their academic pursuits.”
“With the Governor’s signature, the Summer TAG program will help students stay on track, graduate on time, and enter the workforce better prepared. I commend
Senator Singer’s bill, S-3602/A-4811, will provide $20 million in funding for the Summer TAG program to accommodate eligible students during the summer 2025 semester.
Bill Would Name New Toms River Veterans Clinic A er Local Hero
TOMS RIVER - Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th), introduced legislation (HR 9997) to name the new veterans clinic in Toms River after World War II hero and longtime Toms River resident, 2nd Lt. Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, Jr.
Smith’s bill, which notes that Lomell is “exceedingly deserving of the posthumous honor,” is already cosponsored by Reps. Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Andy Kim (D-NJ).
“A decorated war hero and upstanding citizen, Bud Lomell sacrificed so much for our country and courageously led his
platoon during the D-Day invasion of Normandy,” said Smith, who served two terms as Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee. “For his incredible leadership and remarkable bravery, Bud Lomell received a Purple Heart, Silver Star and Bronze Star.”
“It is only fitting that the new modern health care facility in Toms River that will serve so many of our nation’s heroes living in our community be named after one of our very own heroes from Ocean County,” Smith said.
Smith’s legislation has received the strong support of the entire Lomell Family - including Bud’s surviving wife, Charlotte Lomell, who was married to Bud for 63 years.
After citing Lomell’s extraordinary heroism, HR 9997 concludes: “As a decorated
war hero, model citizen, and dedicated husband and father, Lomell is exceedingly deserving of the posthumous honor of having a new and long-awaited Toms River-based Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic named in his honor.”
Lomell, who served as a U.S. Army Ranger in World War II through multiple engagements including the Invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge, was recognized by famed historian Stephen Ambrose as “the single individual - other than Dwight Eisenhower - as most responsible for the Allied successes on D-Day.”
Lomell was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his valor and leadership while scaling the cliffs of Pointe Du Hoc in a critical and highly difficult mission to disable an installment of German heavy guns. He later earned a Silver Star for his actions to capture and secure Hill 400 in the Battle of Hurtgen Forest, during which
he led the Rangers in defending the hilltop against a German counterattack, even after being severely wounded.
After serving our nation overseas, Lomell returned home to Ocean County and became President of the Ocean County Bar Association, a director of the First National Bank of Toms River, and a member of the then Dover Township Board of Education. He died of natural causes in 2011 at his Toms River home.
The new Toms River clinic - a 68,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility located on Hooper Ave - will replace Ocean County’s Brick clinic that Smith secured in 1991 but can no longer accommodate the large veterans population in the area. As part of his push to establish that clinic, Smith had authored three amendments passed by the House of Representatives to bring a Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinic, for the fi rst time, to Ocean County.
$17M In American Rescue Plan Funding Goes To Child Care Facilities
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy highlighted that his Administration has invested more than $1 billion in expanding access to high-quality, affordable child care across New Jersey. The Governor also announced an additional $17 million in funding for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Child Care Facilities Improvement Program. With these new resources, New Jersey is dedicating more than $140 million to improve child care infrastructure, representing one of the largest investments of any state in the country. The announcement was made at a child care center in West Orange that is expanding access to services thanks to funding from the NJEDA.
Building on the Murphy Administration’s comprehensive strategy to support the state’s vital child care sector, the NJEDA’s Child Care Facilities Improvement Program provides grants to eligible child care providers for improvements that contribute to high quality early childhood learning environments. Through the program, which awards grants of up to $200,000, the NJEDA has approved $85 million in grants to over 400 child care centers that collectively enroll over 34,000 children and employ over 8,500 staff. With the inclusion of new funding announced today, the NJEDA now anticipates another 200 centers will receive awards, bringing the total to more than 600 child care centers across all 21 New Jersey counties. Nearly a third of all awards are to centers located in Opportunity Zones. “Affordable, exceptional child care is a vital part of a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy, and the increased fund-
ing announced today will strengthen our state’s economic security and provide equitable opportunities to working parents,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Increased access to high-quality child care allows more parents to return to the workforce, bolstering New Jersey’s economic growth and competitiveness. Thank you to the Biden-Harris Administration, who have provided record-high federal funding to expand access to child care, health care, and other critical resources for families in the Garden State.”
“Access to high-quality child care is a critical piece of our Nurture NJ initiative, and the NJEDA’s Child Care Facilities Improvement Program supports the equitable expansion of early childhood environments that will have lifelong impacts on future generations,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Improvements to facilities in our crucially important child care sector move us closer to our goal of becoming the best state in the nation to raise a family and unlock economic opportunities for working parents.”
With the additional $17 million from the Federal American Rescue Plan State Fiscal Recovery Fund, the NJEDA anticipates being able to approve all eligible child care centers that applied to Phase One of the program, which is no longer accepting new applications. A significant focus of the program is expanding or unlocking capacity within child care centers, especially for infants and toddlers. All construction work is delivered by New Jersey Department of Labor Registered Public Works Contractors and subject to prevailing wage and affi rmative action monitoring.
“Reliable and high-quality child care services are critical to the growth and success of New Jersey’s economy; however, too often fi nancially stretched child care providers forgo making necessary investments in facility upgrades,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Child Care Facilities Improvement Program is an essential part of Governor Murphy’s goal to support working families and to build a more inclusive economy.”
Phil Murphy
Smith
From The Desk Of Senator Robert Singer
C OMMUNITY N EWS
District Wins Communications Award
FREEHOLD – The New Jersey School Public Relations Association (NJSPRA) named Freehold Regional High School District a winner in the 2024 School Communications Award Contest!
Freehold Regional received an Award of Merit in the Photography category. The winning image was taken by Rebecca Policastro, the Communications and District Projects Coordinator, during Howell High School’s 40th anniversary celebration of the Fine and Performing Arts Magnet Program in June 2024. The NJSPRA School Communication Awards recognize professional school communicators in New Jersey and the tactics they develop that go above and beyond to disseminate important mes-
sages to their various stakeholders.
“Congratulations to Freehold Regional High School District for setting the standard for effective school communications here in New Jersey,” said Maren Smagala, Communications Officer for Hunterdon Central Regional High School and president of NJSPRA.
The 2024 contest was among the most competitive on record with 100 submissions from 45 different school districts.
The submissions for the 2024 School Communication Awards were judged by an esteemed panel of 14 judges from ten states including experienced and award-winning school communications professionals and professors from Rowan University.
3rd Annual Animal Center Donation Drive
HOWELL – The Southard Grange #218 supports Jersey Shore Animal Center with their 3rd Annual Donation Drive.
Spread the love of giving this Valentine’s season! All items go the Jersey Shore Animal Center, in February to show our love to the animals!
Last day to donate is February 4, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Drop off dates: November 5,
December 3, January 7, and February 4 at 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Contact to make other arrangements days and times: Southard281@gmail.com or 848-373-8529. Their address is S 4860, US-9 Howell.
They are asking for items on their Wish List. You can fi nd the list at: jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org/wish-list.
Photo courtesy Freehold Regional High School District
• Tasty breakfast and lunch platters
• Specialty coffees, cappuccino, espresso and lattes!
Professional Football Player Visits School Athletes
Photo courtesy Freehold Regional High School District
FREEHOLD – Freehold High School field hockey players had a special guest on the sidelines - current Baltimore Ravens player Keith Kirkwood! Kirkwood is a friend of Freehold coach LeAnna Ross and she invited him to stop by as his child is interested in the sport.
At the end of the game, Kirkwood spoke with the players and shared how amazing it had been to see them play. He urged the team to continue encouraging each other on the field and closed the group meeting by leading a big “Boro on 3” cheer.
2024 Fall Leaf Collection Schedule
HOWELL – The Howell Township Department of Public Works has announced the Fall 2024 Leaf Collection Schedule.
The leaf collection will begin on or about November 4, weather permitting. Crews will begin simultaneously in multiple zones throughout the township.
The last leaf collection is scheduled to start on or about December 2. Place your leaves to the curb no later than December 1. After this date they will not be returning to your street once the last pass is made.
The township guidelines include:
• Leaves only, mixed piles will not be accepted.
• Place leaves at the edge of the curb, not in the traffic lane.
• Do not bag leaves.
• Keep piles clear of storm inlets to prevent flooding.
• If possible, blow leaves into woods to allow natural composition and creation of topsoil for healthier trees.
Brush collection:
• The next brush collection is scheduled for the Spring of 2025.
• Check back with the Department of Public Works closer to the spring season for defi nitive dates.
As a reminder, the Recycling Center (278 Old Tavern Road) accepts leaves and brush year-round, seven days a week; between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. No permits are required to access the center but proof of residency must be provided.
For more information, contact the Department of Public Works, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 732-9384500 ext. 2450 or visit twp.howell.nj.us
Ex Fire Chief Returns Home From Helping Hurricane Victims
HOWELL – The members of the Southard Fire Department are happy to welcome home the returning members of New Jersey Task Force One.
These members were deployed to the hardest hit section of North Carolina following hurricane Helene and were later transferred down to Central Florida in preparation for Milton. These men, women, and canines worked for countless hours to commence
search and rescue operations.
Among them was one of their own, Ex-Chief Steven Hadgkiss. To no surprise, Hadgkiss jumped at the chance to help others, even if it meant putting his own personal safety at risk, and spending valuable time away from his loved ones. Steve has always demonstrated the dedication and resiliency to do what is necessary to help those in need. Nice job Chief and welcome home! You’ve made us proud!
Animal Rescue Group Needs Donations
HOWELL – Rescue Ridge is a non-profit, nokill, all-volunteer animal rescue group works tirelessly to find homes for all its animals in need. Founded in 2001 out of Spring Lake, the group had rapidly expanded with the love and support from the local communities. With five adoption centers for cats, foster homes for both cats and dogs, and two local kenneling sites for dogs (one kennel located in Howell), not to mention its active adoption events, this group is always in need of basic supplies. We pull from local high kill shelters, receive calls for help and take in strays, etc. We are now asking the local communities for help in allowing us to continue our mission of saving lives. Rescue Ridge currently has approximately 145 volunteers and counting. This alone shows you how dedicated this group is to giving animals a second chance in life. We incur very high vet bills, along with all the medication, sheltering expenses and so much more. It is with this we ask for basic supplies.
“The mission of Rescue Ridge is to rescue. Our dream is to one day won’t have to.”
Highland Kennel, one of the two rescue group’s locations is located at 1424 Maxim Southard Road, Howell, will be accepting donations for animals in their care. There is a donation bin by the front door and drop off times are best from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. then from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., seven days a week. The animal rescue group also offers
kenneling availability to the public at this location. Rescue Ridge is asking for basic supplies: monetary donations, gift cards to Pet Smart.
For our dogs the group is in great need of: wee wee pads, dog pick up bags, wet or dry food for dogs - chicken is best, dog treats – must say made in USA, hard rubber toys such as Kong. We cannot give stuffed toys as they destroy them and eat the material and need to be careful of squeakers.
For our cats the group is in great need of: Friskies wet food or Fancy Feast any flavor, “Simply Green” or “Rescue” Cleaner to help clean cat cages and clumping litter.
For overall keeping the shelter clean, the group is in need of basic supplies: paper towels, laundry detergent (h/e is best), large garbage bags (industrial size), and bleach (must say kills 99%). Office supplies - in great need of copy paper and stamps.
Please no more sheets, blankets, collars or leashes as we have a lot that has been donated. We greatly appreciate all that has been donated. If you or anyone you know can help with any of these items, please donate Rescue Ridge is always in need.
If you are interested in adoption or have a question, call 732-546-8805 or text, email is rescueridgeshelter@gmail.com. You can also visit our website and view our amazing animals at rescueridge.com.
Photo courtesy Southard Fire Department
“Delivering Be er Highs & Healthier Lows”
HOWELL – Matt Bellace, a professional speaker and stand-up comedian, delivered his energetic presentation to Howell High School 10th-graders.
The Howell Alliance sponsored this presentation since October was Substance Use Prevention and Bullying Prevention Month.
Dr. Bellace’s programs encourage young people to pursue natural highs and be resilient in the face of stress.
Dr. Bellace has a Ph.D. in clinical
neuropsychology, the study of the brain and behavior. He trained at the National Institutes of Mental Health and The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. Learn more about Dr. Bellace here: mattbellace.com.
They appreciate the on-going collaboration with Howell High School to achieve their common goals: to promote youth wellness and resiliency and to empower young people to make positive choices and live healthy lives.
Pocketbook Bingo & Tricky Tray Fundraiser
HOWELL – Misfits Theatre Co.’s annual fundraiser featuring Bingo, Tricky Tray, and a chance to win big prizes, will be on November 5 at Saint Veronica’s Church, 4219 Route 9, Howell.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m. Including high-end purses, jewelry, sports memorabilia, and an airline voucher package. Must be 18 or older to enter.
Photo courtesy Howell Alliance
C OMMUNITY N EWS
Fire ghters Train For Complex Rescue Scenarios
FARMINGDALE – Squankum Fire Company thanks the Central Jersey Compliance Company for an incredible and informative Man vs. Machine class!
The team learned valuable skills for han-
dling complex rescue scenarios involving machinery and equipment. The hands-on training and expertise provided will help us better serve our community in times of need.
Fire ghters Train Hose Line Skills
FARMINGDALE – On October 14’s drill, members of the Farmingdale Fire Department practiced following the hose line while blindfolded.
This teaches them teamwork, communication, and problem solving all while conserving their air and maximizing their movements.
Photo courtesy Squankum Fire Company
Photo courtesy Nick Tedeschi/Farmingdale Fire Department
Dr.
Izzy’s
Sound News
Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)
Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.
Possible Prevention Of Hearing Loss rough Be er Nutrition
Research seems to confi rm a relationship between a healthy cardiovascular system and hearing health. As most of you know, optimal nutrition should be based around “whole foods” - fresh vegetables, fruits and nuts, vegetable juices and virgin olive oil. The jury is still out in regard to meat and dairy products, but it is quite clear that meats in general should be free of hormones and antibiotics. “Dead” foods (anything preheated, refi ned/processed), all processed vegetable oils, margarine, genetically modified products and aspartame (Equal, Nutrasweet) should also be avoided, particularly if microwaving. Although I am not a nutritionist, nutritional supplements are probably appropriate for most people. Even though supplements alone cannot provide a complete range of micronutrients that our bodies need to function optimally, they are necessary to counteract basic nutritional deficiencies due to poor eating habits, to treat current health problems, to enhance the immune system and to counteract any
nutritional losses due to prescription medications. Possible supplements might include Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin B Complex, Folic Acid, Magnesium, Zinc, Ginkgo Biloba, garlic and fish oil. Other substances such as coenzyme Q10, DHEA, Melatonin and Alpha-Lipoic Acid might be appropriate also. Regular exercise is vital for both cardiovascular fitness and better hearing health.
Research clearly confirms that if we eat right and exercise daily, our overall health will be improved. Although prevention of hearing loss as a function of aging cannot be completely stopped, there are certainly ways to “slow down” the process. The combination of a nutritionally optimal diet, exercise and appropriate hearing aids will lead to a more active lifestyle and improve quality of life.
Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to answer questions pertaining to your hearing health care. Please feel free to contact 732-451-3962 or visit gardenstatehearing.com
His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!
H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH
Dear Pharmacist
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Medications That Can Cause Gastroparesis: What You Need to Know
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
If you often feel bloated, nauseous, or find yourself struggling with persistent fullness, it might not just be what you’re eating, it could be gastroparesis. Other symptoms include heartburn/reflux, belching a lot, or experiencing swings in appetite. Surprisingly, certain medications, which are otherwise meant to help us, can contribute to this condition. For some people, it’s mild, and appreciated - with early satiety you eat less, and lose weight. Many supplements aim to make you feel full faster! But for others, gastroparesis goes behind feeling full or bloated for a few minutes - it can be dangerous and require medical intervention. The well-known weight loss drug Ozempic has recently been associated with gastroparesis, raising concerns about its impact on digestive health. There are many medications that can affect stomach emptying, but here are four major categories:
1. Opioids: Drugs like morphine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone slow digestion by binding to receptors in the gut, decreasing stomach motility and prolonging the time food stays in the stomach, which can cause gastroparesis symptoms.
2. Anticholinergics: Used for COPD, overactive bladders, allergies or Parkinson’s, these medications block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that drives muscle contractions in the digestive tract, leading to delayed stomach emptying.
3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): TCAs like amitriptyline have anticholinergic effects that reduce gut motility, slowing digestion.
4. Calcium Channel Blockers: Medications such as verapamil relax smooth muscles, including those in the stomach, which can slow food movement through the digestive system.
A lot of people live with this not realizing they have the condition, especially people with hypothyroidism. For those that are uncomfortable enough, a gastroenterologist is the type of physician to see. Diagnosis typically involves tests like gastric emptying studies to evaluate how well the stomach is processing food. Eating differently may or may not help if it’s medication-induced. Hundreds of medications can cause gastroparesis. Dietary changes play a pivotal role in managing the condition. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may ease symptoms. Avoiding foods that are difficult to digest, such as those high in fiber or fats, helps prevent further delays in gastric emptying. Staying hydrated and incorporating liquid meals can also provide nutrition without overloading your stomach.
Natural remedies may offer additional relief depending on the cause of gastroparesis. Ginger is known for its digestive benefits and can stimulate gastric motility. Probiotics can support gut health by balancing beneficial bacteria, which may alleviate some symptoms. Vitamin B12 supplementation is also recommended, especially since people with gastroparesis can have deficiencies due to absorption issues.
Ultimately, a tailored approach combining medication management, dietary adjustments, and natural supplements can help reduce the discomfort associated with gastroparesis. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to create a plan to solve this. Living with gastroparesis is challenging, and once you find a solution, it will resolve. For a deeper dive into this topic, you can find the full, detailed version of this article on my website at suzycohen.com
(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2024 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.
DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES
Sherry T. DeGraff NJ Lic No 3921
DIRECT CREMATION $1875
Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Local Hospital, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory Located at: DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst 732-657-7868
WWW.DEGRAFFFUNERALHOME.COM
Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certi ed Copies Of Death Certi cates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
A Couple Of Reasons Why Attorneys Decline Injury Cases
By: Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
Unfortunately, in our personal injury practice, law firms cannot accept and undertake the responsibility for every potential case. However, when a case is declined it does not necessarily mean that the case is without merit.
Each time an attorney prosecutes a personal injury case this process requires a showing of both liability (legal responsibility or fault of the tortfeasor), and damages (economic and non-economic losses) caused by the fault or wrongdoing of the tortfeasor. During a law firm’s assessment of a potential case, it must perform a careful review and analysis of the facts provided by the potential client and assess the clients’ personal and legal responsibility for the happening of this incident.
In New Jersey, if a personal injury plaintiff is found 51% or more responsible for the happening of an accident, then that client will, as a matter of law, be denied any recovery.
N.J.S.A. 2A:15-51 et seq. Similarly, if a client is found 50% or less responsible for the happening of an accident, then that percentage of fault assigned to the client will cause any monetary verdict awarded to the plaintiff to be reduced by the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. So, if a plaintiff is awarded a $100,000 verdict for pain and suffering, but she is found to be 50% at fault for the happening of the accident, then the court will reduce her $100,000 verdict by 50% or $50,000.00.
In addition, law firms must consider the cost of litigation, and litigation these days is very expensive. Sometimes, it is our opinion that the amount of reasonable damages likely to be awarded to a potential client may be inadequate to justify the time and expense required of us to properly represent the potential client. Naturally, that is a matter of opinion, but if a law firm estimates that the cost of litigation will be $20,000.00 and that the likely recovery for the potential client may only be $30,000.00, then the attorney may decline the case. Under this scenario, the client would only recover $6,700.00 and the attorney’s fee for all the time and effort would be $3,300.00. An attorney’s fee is separate from the recovery of the attorney’s out of pocket litigation costs. Our Rules of Court require that an attorney’s litigation costs be deducted from the client’s gross recovery before the attorney calculates his fee and the client’s net recovery.
Michael J. Deem, Esq. is the only double Certified trial lawyer in Ocean County. He is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney, and he is Board Certified by the National Board of Trial Lawyers in Civil Trial Law. Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation of your personal injury case. (732) 5056-1212.
Senior Center Collecting Le over Halloween Candy
HOWELL – Will you have leftover Halloween candy? If so, please drop off your goodies to the Senior Center or Steven Fecher in the Manager’s Office located at 4567 Highway 9 North, 2nd Fl by November
15. Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Howell Township Senior Center will be sending the collection to the troops overseas through “Always Supporting Our Military.”
Fall Cra Show
TINTON FALLS – From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 9, the Monmouth County Park System will host its Fall Craft Show at the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center, Tinton Falls. This seasonal craft show features the work of local artists and crafters. Items include: country home décor, dog feeders, doll clothes, greeting cards, hand-sewn/ crocheted items, hand-painted glassware, jewelry, journals & notebooks, knit hats,
nautical items, paintings & prints, painted bird houses, photography, pottery & ceramics, sea glass art, scented candles, tissue box covers, wine bottles carriers/gift bags, wreaths, and so much more!
Admission and parking are free. For more information about this event or the Monmouth County Park System, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732842-4000.
CLASSIFIEDS
Misc.
Comics, Cards, Shows - 11/10
Toms River Elks 600 Washington. Artists, writers, crafts, costume groups. Call 609-242-7756. (45)
Personals
Senior Man Looking For A WomanCompanion to honor an cherish for her attention as a married loving couple, 65 years to 70 years will take care of you, let's get together - breakfast or dinner. At your request - call Mark at 732-557-5017. (46)
Services Help Wanted
Real Estate Services Services Services
For Sale
Firewood for sale - $ 250 per cord. free delivery call 732-610 -0447. (49)
Furniture For Sale - Dining room table, 6 chairs and 2 PC China cabinet $1000. 6 piece white wicker bedroom set $500, 3 piece cream sofa bed, love seat, chair $300. Call Barb 973-519-6482. (48)
(47)
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)
WANTED TO BUY - Old Records for LPs & 45s Rock/Jazz/ Soul/Blues Call Eddie (732829-5908) For 45/78 RPM Doo Wop/Soul/R&B/Rockabilly Call Bob 909-938-4623. (46)
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)
Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Coins Wanted - I will buy all U.S. coins minted prior to 1965. Bill Nila The Coin Man 732-477-7225. (52)
DAY Substitutes Needed for Ocean County Vocational Technical School district: Courier, Custodial, School Nurses/RN, Secretarial, Teachers for Trade Skill areas-Audio, Auto, Childcare, Computer, Construction, Cosmetology, Culinary, Dental, Electric, Engineering/Machine Technology, Fashion Design, Heavy Equipment Operator, HVAC, Marine, Medical, Multimedia, Photography, Plumbing, Pre-Nursing, Welding or visit www.ocvts.org. EOE, Please email resume at tedgar@ocvts. org or call 732-240-6414 Ext. 3317. (51)
Certified Home Health Aides - Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)
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)
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
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)
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)
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)
Local Experienced Senior Care Giver available for work mornings til 12:00 and evenings after 4:30 pm. Please call Kathy 908-246-7896. (48)
Italian/American Couple - looking to clean, laundry or drive. Please call Christopher or Mary Ann at 732-475-7770 or 732-948-2025. (49)
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. (8)
Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (43)
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)
Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
Affordable Landscaping - Fall & spring clean ups. Shrubs & tree pruning, sod & seed lawns, retaining & stone walls, topsoil & mulch planting, & much more. 640-999-0072. (47)
HOUSE CLEANING - 848-3261907 KEVIN over 30 years professional cleaning experience Cleaned pediatric cardiology office over 15 years REFERENCES available $30.00 hour 848-326-1907. (46)
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)
Handyman Small jobs - Painting, powerwash, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call 732-859-9266. (44)
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)
Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)
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)
Painting - Special Fall Pricing. Interior/Exterior. Meticulous work. All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (47)
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)
BUILDING - HOME IMPROVEMENTS/REPAIRS • CARPENTRY • TRIM• FLOORING • BATHROOM AND KITCHEN UPGRADES• DECKS• DOORS• WINDOWS • TILE• MASONRY• SIDING • PAINTING• ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • AND MORE• HOURLY RATES FOR SMALL JOBS• LICENSED • INSURED • GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP • CALL 609-384-9030 EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE • SENIOR AND VETERAN DISCOUNTS. (50)
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e American Bullfrog –One Of e Most Interesting Frog Species In e World
By Renee A. Thomaier
Retired
New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
This notorious species of frog, the American bullfrog, has predators such as snakes, turtles, raccoons, otters, fish, herons, alligators, kingfishers, and humans. Their lifespan in the wild is roughly 10 years; in captivity 16. Their size is 6 to 8 inches with varied colors of olive green to brown, yellow, and sometimes blue green. They have a generalist diet consuming mostly invertebrates, other amphibians, lizards, insects, other frogs, fish - practically everything, adapting to whatever food sources are available. Their ability
to consume is almost unprecedented, destroying habitat along the way. They are the largest frog species in North America. During cooler weather, they will undertake a hibernation but are most active in warmer weather.
In Asia, Europe, Korea, Japan, and South America, they are considered a highly invasive species. Steps have been taken to control their populations by releasing sterile males into the wild. However, those attempts have rendered only limited success.
The American bullfrog is fearsome. All it takes is some splashing in their territory and it’s ‘go time.’ Their hunting instincts are ignited. Hunting
leaps involve them closing their eyes and blindly lunging towards their prey. Mouth open, and their sticky tongue ejected, their prey is pulled inside within seconds. Their leaps take them into the air, equivalent to 10 times the length of their body.
Males will wrestle for dominance position against other males by jumping at one another, surrounding their arms around their opponent, and rolling around. This occurs during the start of breeding season which takes place throughout the spring and summer months. After successful mating with a female, she will deposit thousands of eggs on the surface of the water forming
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
a clump. The eggs are so distasteful fish will avoid preying upon them. The hatching tadpoles may take as long as 4 years to transform into an adult frog. The legs of the American bullfrog are considered a food source delicacy by many; humans will hunt them, raise them, or buy them.
I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.
It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/ federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Jane Kunka was recently in Barnegat Light taking some photos. She saw this seagull hanging out by the green moss & seaweed covered rocks. Want to see your pic in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may see it here!
4th Annual Polar Plunge
BELMAR – Join Monmouth County SPCA the weekend after Thanksgiving on November 30 with friends and family to plunge to raise funds to help support the thousands of animals cared for by the MCSPCA every year!
The day will be filled with food, fun, music, prizes, a dog zone & activities for the
kids! Dogs are welcome to join guests and plungers on the party deck outside of D’Jais, however, dogs will not be allowed to plunge in the ocean – we’ll have people standing by in our “BARK SQUAD” to watch your pup while you plunge. Register at monmouthcountyspca. org/2024-polar-plunge.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
viser
28 The older of baseball’s two leagues: Abbr.
32 Possessive pronoun 33 Vamoose 35 Pub round 36 Architect Saarinen
satirist
May Alcott classic whose main characters are hidden in the answers to the
“__ Poetica”
“Fist of Legend” ac-
Data unit 38 Freeway exits
Cross off
Overhead trains
Cream cheese, e.g.
Algonquian language
Rose and fell on the waves
Over again
Get back
City near Syracuse
Hotel postings
Poker pot
Org. with a Climate Change section on its website
24 Sink or swim 25 Mascara target 26 Hindu spiritual ad-
Leader with an .edu address
Fabrication
Name of 13 popes
Masthead VIPs
“__ too shabby!”
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Enjoy being appreciated and trusted. Consider taking the initiative when it comes to love and express your true feelings to your loved ones. An unexpected encounter with someone new might bring surprising opportunities.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : Body language can tell you more than a few words and a string of emojis. Those you can trust may look you straight in the eye. You might receive a warm hug just when you need it most from someone who has your best interest at heart.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You might make love more complicated than it needs to be. It may be time to stop playing games or expecting extravagant gestures. Allow yourself to enjoy the honest emotion without any hesitation. You know what you must do.
CANCER (June 21-July 22) : You can admire and take inspiration from your heroes without losing sight of necessary boundaries. Remember who you are and what you want to accomplish. Keep striving to show up in the world as your best self.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Someone you doubted could come through for you. Learn to appreciate someone’s talents and skillset without being jealous of their success. Your trust can become stronger if you receive proof of someone’s honesty and loyalty.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : You might look forward to your work as the week begins, if it’s a labor of love. However, for today, consider letting your work run on autopilot and focus your energy on exploring romance, friendships, and relationships.
FOR THE WEEK OF NOV 2 - NOV 8
BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): An unexpected invitation could leave you feeling on top of the world. Think about ways you can return that feeling when you’re out in the world. Recognize how important other people are in your life and find ways to show appreciation.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Patience is crucial for true success. When you’re unsure of the next step, sometimes the best strategy is to wait for the next card to drop. While waiting, focus on social activities and spend time with people who brighten your spirits.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):
Being the center of affectionate attention feels great. Today, you radiate positive energy and might effortlessly step into a leadership role when needed. Think of ways to leverage your popularity to smooth out any rough edges.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):
Light up your life with positivity. If you have been waiting to make a passionate move or to make a life altering decision, there could be an opportunity to go for it. Your enthusiastic nature may soon prove to be useful.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):
Work may not feel totally like a chore in the week ahead, you might excel and feel well able to tackle tasks. Good fortune could spill over into your personal life, keeping your relationships thriving and in shape.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Consider organizing your resources so you can prepare to make important decisions. Start thinking about what you might need to have in place when the right opportunity arises to improve your income or long-term success.
Girl Scouts Gi Auction
FARMINGDALE – Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore is excited to announce their inaugural “Girl Scouts & Gifts: Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Gift Auction.”
This event will take place on November 15 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Program Activity Center, Farmingdale. Funds raised from the event will benefit local girls in Monmouth and Ocean counties as they deliver on their mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
Guests must be registered in advance. Registration is open to anyone 21 years and older and is $30 per person. Registration includes admission, one sheet of Tier 1 tickets ($20 value), cookies at
LEFTOVER HALLOWEEN CANDY MAKES A GREAT COATING FOR HOMEMADE CARAMEL APPLES
By America’s Test Kitchen
CANDY-COATED CARAMEL APPLES
HOWELL – Save the date for a Symposium On Mental Health And Wellness held by the Monmouth County Schools Partnership for Wellness on February 6 at 6 p.m. at Brookdale Community College. Registration coming soon.
your table and unlimited coffee.
The event is bring your own food and beverage (limited to water, soft drinks, beer and wine. Hard alcohol is not permitted).
They are accepting registrations of reserved tables of eight in addition to single registrations. Please provide names of guests you would like to be seated with and we will do our best to accommodate seating requests.
Raffle tickets can be purchased at the event. Doors open at 6 p.m. 50/50 raffle winner will be pulled at 9:30 p.m. - winner must be present to win For more information, visit jereyshore girlscouts.org.
