2024-12-07 - The Jackson Times by Jersey Shore Online

Former Committeeman Writes His Life Story

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Barry

Calogero has had a challenging life. He faced abuse while growing up, but rose up to turn his life around becoming a family man, politician and even worked for the president of the United States.

The township resident was appointed as the state executive director of the New Jersey

USDA Farm Service in 2017 by President Donald Trump and just when his life appeared to reach a pinnacle, he faced the devastating diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.

Nonetheless, he sees his life as remarkable and decided to share his story with the world. His autobiography, “A Life Finally Worth Living… And Then Came Parkin-

son’s” was recently released. Calogero shared his thoughts about writing his book with The Jackson Times

“All my life I have been told that I had told great stories about my life and I should share them as they could help other people,” the new author said. “I had a unique childhood. In many cases it was bad, abused by my father men-

tally and physically. He was an alcoholic.”

“My mother was a shut in, she had to stay in one room for many years. We lived over a bar in a dirty area of Queens under an elevated train station. It was dirty living conditions, rat infested, filthy and there was alcoholism and fighting. There was a time in my generation,

(Story - See Page 5)

Students Prepare Thousands Of Meals For Those In Need

By Alyssa Riccardi BRICK – The Ocean County Vocational

Technical School’s Brick Center was buzzing with activity during the week before Thanksgiving, where students worked tirelessly to provide a holiday meal for those in need. There were 182 culinary students who prepared over 3,500 Thanksgiving dinners for “Feed the Need,” an initiative that began more than 25 years ago. “Feed the Need started with

us just providing 25 meals to a local church,” Culinary 1 instructor Chef Gary Lesniak said. “Every year it seemed to build. The program back then just relied on donations; people dropping of turkeys, etc.”

The program now partners up with Fulfill, who provided over 400 turkeys this year, as well as RWJ Barnabas Community Medical Center, who supply the grocery products for the side (Meals - See Page 11)

Private School Campus Approved

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – The township Planning Board recently reconsidered a proposal to build a 200,000 square foot campus that will include four schools.

After two years and a number of contentious Planning Board meetings, Board members who previously rejected the application approved it unanimously after several hours of testimony during their latest meeting.

The campus will serve 2,500 students and will be located on Chandler Road and Jackson Mills Road. The application was submitted by 394 Chandler Holdings, LLC. A large audience of neighbors came out to the latest meeting of the Planning Board to learn the fate of the application.

Back in August the project was rejected by Board members primarily due to a proposed circular driveway. During that meeting the applicant’s lawyer Donna Jennings threatened legal action

(Campus - See Page 6)

By Bob Vosseller PLUMSTED – Township Committee

members discussed the township Municipal Utilities Authority rate hike and the need for the township to subsidize that agency.

The township wastewater treatment plant was built for $32 million several years ago as a means to reinvigorate the community’s downtown business district. The facility was described as being able to make wastewater so clean that it can discharge into Crosswicks Creek which flows into the Delaware River.

(MUA - See Page 4)

Photos by The Jackson Times and courtesy Barry Calogero Former Jackson Council President and now author, Barry Calogero sits in the Jackson Township Town Hall chambers.

Photos courtesy OCVTS Thousands of meals were prepared by culinary students.

MUA

Continued From Page 1

The small and compact plant resembles a red barn and treats the sewage of around 500 customers in New Egypt, the downtown section of Plumsted. It also treats 380 customers from Lennar’s Venue at Longview which is an age-restricted community still being built. Unlike most treatment plants, this one uses a three-stage process instead of two.

Some customers however remain in sticker shock having been hit with a 128% sewer bill increase following years of initial warnings.

Committeeman Robert Bowen discussed the November MUA hearing where that increase was announced. “I am aware that the police needed to be called. My understanding is that we had employees of the township and volunteers who felt unsafe and that their safety was at risk.”

Township Attorney Jean Cipriani had to quiet the audience who spoke out regarding what transpired during the PMUA rate increase hearing.

MUA Executive Director Brian Brach told The Jackson Times, “as is standard protocol when significant public participation is anticipated, the PMUA preemptively scheduled two off-duty Plumsted Township Police Department officers to be present at the November 12, PMUA public meeting. They were not called, per se, and were initially observing the beginning of the meeting out in the hallway of the Municipal Building.”

“The PMUA Board immediately convened an executive session at the start of the meet-

ing, as had been indicated on the agenda, to discuss confidential and protected matters. The public took exception to this and acted in a manner which can only be described as unacceptable and troubling,” Brach said.

He noted that while in executive session, “there was screaming in the Municipal Chambers, which the Board had vacated. At that time, the PMUA Board called the PTPD officers into the executive session.”

“PMUA Chairman Kubiel requested that the officers deescalate the situation prior entering back into public session; and further requested that the officers stand at either side of the dais. The PTPD officers are commended for their professionalism, as once the PMUA entered back into regular session, there were no further disturbances,” Brach added.

Brach said, “the fact that the PMUA Board had to request that the officers stand at the dais in and of itself would dispute any claims from the public that they were acting appropriately.”

Bowen thanked the volunteers within the community, “be it the coaches, New Egypt Historical Society, volunteers at school, volunteers on our boards and committees. I particularity want to thank our MUA volunteers.”

He noted that he and MUA members attended a meeting in Toms River “with Ocean County Board of Commissioners Director Bobbi Jo Crea and Commissioner Frank Sadeghi and members of the Ocean County Planning and Engineering, Recycling (departments).”

“Members of the MUA board and execu-

tive director were there asking the Ocean County Commissioners how do we work together to improve the MUA and enhance what we are doing and also bring down the cost for the users,” he added.

Bowen said, “I commend them for two days later front and center seeing what they can do to improve the MUA and to bring down the costs. It was a very constructive meeting. There is a lot we can pursue and I think there are a lot of opportunities to partner with the County to enhance our operations.”

“They are working on possibly having a county presence here in Plumsted down on Main Street and have a lot of productive meetings. Commissioner Sadeghi has been the point person for them and has gotten up to speed and will continue during this transition period and hit the ground running in January,” he said.

Mayor Dominick Cuozzo also touched on the MUA situation. “I’ve gotten a lot of complaints from township residents. I appreciate those working in a very difficult situation. It is not an easy thing to do. I can’t speak for the MUA. I know there is a lot of frustration. The MUA is a separate government entity.”

“It is outside the direct jurisdiction of this body,” the mayor added. “I will gladly pass all your complaints on to them.” He said he and his wife had spoken about the matter and “I know how we would feel if we were forced to connect to a sewer system at a certain payment amount and had it been raised 128 percent and how that would make us feel.”

The mayor said the governing body “is trying to help. We have about a $7 million budget. Despite that we have made over $3 million in a one-time settlement being made just this year and we had committed to a $250,000 annual operational subsidy that we have re-upped for $500,000 in an annual subsidy for the MUA.”

He added, “we will take additional action on that subsidy as the executive director of the MUA “wrote a resolution with a bit more teeth to it and we are voting on that resolution here. It won’t change a bad situation all that much but we are doing our best.”

The PMUA’s shortfall has led to a series of short and long-term fi xes that include customers being asked to pay higher fees despite over 200 customers already being delinquent on bill payments.

Township Committee members introduced an ordinance that night to rezone the downtown area in hopes that it would bring in more development projects that might provide new customers to help cover costs for the plant. That ordinance however has been facing stiff opposition by residents. A second reading will feature a public hearing this month.

The rate hike wasn’t a complete surprise as residents were warned 10 years ago that the plant’s construction would lead to increased costs. Brach was brought in last year to address the utility’s troubled fi nances. Brach who is also the executive director of the Manasquan River Regional Sewerage Authority told The Jackson Times that the situation is complex, that a rate increase was (MUA - See Page 5)

Story:

Continued From Page 1

the 60s and 70s where racial discrimination was really taking hold,” he added.

Calogero said, “my father was proud to try and raise his two sons as racists. Even at a young age I couldn’t understand why he would do something like that. By the age of 12, I became a punk realizing at that time in my life, that they only way you were going to get something was to take it.”

“I got into a lot of fights and because my dad was such a bad alcoholic, I had to take a lot of trains at 3 and 4 in the morning down to east New York and down to Bowery in Manhattan, and go to these after hour joints where my father would be spending his whole paycheck on cards and drinking,” he added.

“That led to fights and here I am 14-yearold kid fighting a 25-year-old construction worker. It wasn’t a fun or safe life,” Calogero said.

He noted that he told his own children that you can take something away from even a bad experience. “What I took from my father is how not to raise a family. I thank

him for that and hope he has a good life in heaven but I don’t miss him that much.”

On a happier note, he recalled meeting his future wife. “I met the love of my life Gina at 15 years old, a beautiful girl,” He noted that eight years earlier while he was fishing off a bridge in Queens, “I saw an Italian man who was there every week with his kids fishing. I would look at them and say I’d always want to have a family like that. He ended up being my father-in-law.”

He noted that when he got into his professional career, things changed. He became an executive vice president of a large brokerage fi rm, head of global operations. “I traveled the world lived in Africa, London, Mexico and lived in Canada for a year while my wife, God bless her, was raising the children.”

“We went into our relationship perfectly understanding that she wanted to be a housewife, raise the family in our beautiful home and I wanted to be the provider of those resources. We both respect each other to this day and that is why we have been married for 40 years,” Calogero said.

“Just as everything was going great, I got into politics,” he added. He became the

chairman of the township zoning board.

“I loved it. I say in my book after eight years of service as an elected public official and another eight years as a zoning board chairman and other boards where you are not elected but appointed, I put in 16 years into a town I knew nothing of.”

He added, “I loved it. It is a great town and I really had a connection with the residents. They had a connection with me. We did good work together but then things started to change. I got diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The dynamics of the town required a lot more effort that I was unable to afford at that time.”

At this time, he was also working for President Trump and was serving as councilman. “It broke my heart because I loved both.”

He said while serving on council for eight years, “we never gave ourselves a raise.”

“These are all the components that have come to shape my life along with my next obstacle which was Parkinson’s,” he noted. He also recalled the surprising phone call he received from “the White House. I never expected that. I picked it up and a woman asked me for a whole lot of information. I told her I had no qualifications to serve in Agriculture

and she said yes but you have managed very large groups very effectively, you have cost cut very effectively, you are a professional and know how to deal with people.”

He was told if he turned it down, he’d be asked to come to Washington and explain to President Trump why he was refusing the position. “How do you say no to that?”

Becoming a writer was a challenge and he recalled it was a lesson in discipline and after writing it, “you have to get a publisher and an editor.”

His book was released on November 26. “You can now go to any dot com bookstore and you’ll see my book in there. “I recently woke up to an amazing review in Amazon, five starts out of five stars: ‘extremely well written-a poignant page turner that is a must read. The positive spin he places on dealing with this devastating illness is truly awe inspiring,’” Calogero quoted.

While coping with Parkinson’s disease is difficult, Calogero said he will enjoy life and all it offers surrounded by his friends, his wife, three children and one grandchild cherishing each day. He also noted that wouldn’t rule out the possibility of returning to local politics someday.

Continued From Page 4

necessary and securing funds for operations was difficult.

While Cuozzo and Brach have expressed the belief that Plumsted will eventually see

some fi nancial gains they also agree that the plant came online before the township could actually afford to operate it. One factor being that the Lennar development wasn’t fi nished, and the PILOT program which is phased in over five years, didn’t allow for the township to be able to collect

total amount.

PILOT means payment in lieu of taxes. Brach stated that operation costs for treatment plants rose far more than was expected. “We are doing our best to help each and every one of you,” Deputy Mayor Herb Marinari assured residents during Novem-

ber’s Committee meeting, “fi nances and fi nancing this year have been very difficult with anybody especially new homeowners at Lennar (development). This Committee is doing the best they can. We will do whatever we can to support the MUA and more so, taxpayers.”

Campus:

Continued From Page 1 toward the board and accused board members of acting in bad faith.

Jennings wanted the road to remain private and stormed out of the meeting. She watched the vote from an open door having argued that the application could be approved and that the governing body could make the decision concerning whether the

roadway could be placed in that area and eliminate the need for the applicant to come before the Planning Board again. Board members called her remarks out of line and stated during the meeting that the reason they voted against the application was because if it were approved, it would then have to go before the Jackson Council to determine whether a public roadway could be paved off of Chandler Road which leads to the school.

Another issue at the time concerned whether the applicant would file for a tax-exempt status and if the road remained private that it should be maintained by the applicant. There were also concerns expressed that the township should not have to cover the cost for an entrance road to a private school if the property was tax exempt.

Chandler Holdings later revamped their application and Chandler Road was reclassified as a private driveway. The site plan

was developed by Lake Como, New Jersey based Dynamic Engineering.

A boys’ high school of 23,730 square feet will accomodate153 students and will include 51 off-street parking spaces as required by township zoning of one space per three high school students.

An elementary school for boys to service 712 students came in at a size of 57,942 square feet will have 89 off street parking spaces to meet the Jackson zoning ordinance of one space per eight elementary school students.

A 63,160 square foot girls’ elementary school will have 810 students and 112 off street parking spaces provided which is more than the required number of 102 spots.

An elementary school to accommodate 776 male students at a size of 57,942 will have101 off street parking spaces which is also in addition to the 97 spaces that are required by township ordinance.

The parcel totals 23.25 acres and the total gross floor area of the four buildings is 202,774 square feet.

Jackson Teen Killed In Dirt Bike Crash

By Alyssa Riccardi JACKSON –

A fundraiser was started to help the family of a 16-year-old who tragically died in a dirt bike crash on November 23.

According to state police, the boy was riding a Kawasaki dirt bike north on County Road 628 in Upper Township when a Nissan Rogue headed south made a left turn into a driveway. The dirt bike collided with the Rouge on the passenger side.

The teen was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

State police did not disclose the identities of the boy and the driver. However, it was later revealed through a GoFundMe fundraiser that the boy involved in the crash was Jim Morell.

The fundraiser, which was created by a friend of the Morell family to cover funeral expenses, has raised over $36,000. The fundraiser stated that Jim’s birthday would have been just two weeks away.

“It’s difficult to find the right words to bring comfort to those who cherished him. Jim was a devoted son, brother, nephew, cousin and friend,” Salvatore Scalici wrote on the GoFundMe page. “Jim was such a bright light in our lives. Jim moved to his own beat and welcomed everyone into his world.”

The GoFundMe can be found at: gofundme.com/f/help-support-the-morell-familyduring-this-diﬃcult-time.

JACKSON – Join for this year’s Menorah Lighting on December 30 at 5 p.m. at Town Hall, 95 W. Veterans Highway. Save e Date:

Capitol

Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

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

A Season Of Gatherings, Joy, And Food

TRENTON - I hope everyone had a very happy Thanksgiving, spending time with family and friends. For many of us, Thanksgiving dinner is the largest and most varied meal of the year, with at least one entree and an unusual number of side dishes.

As we proceed through the holiday season, food will continue to play a bigger role than at other times of the year, with many of us fortunate to attend a few holiday dinner parties before Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s Eve. After a season of eating quite well, many of us will restart or redouble our exercise routines in January.

As we enjoy the bounty of the season, it’s important to remember that others, including our neighbors, are having a different experience entirely. Families already struggling to put food on the table are under even more financial pressure as they try to provide gifts for the kids and also have nicer meals, especially with today’s highly inflated prices.

Serving on the Assembly committees that handle agricultural issues, I’ve learned a fair amount about food insecurity and I’m working on efforts in that area. On my to-do list in the short term is a field trip to a food bank with Mark Dinglasan, Executive Director of the New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate.

Now, as an advocate of generally smaller and more efficient government myself, I’m sure some readers will see terms like “food insecurity” to be a vague way to justify more

spending, and the office as probably just another bureaucracy. Based on what I’ve seen, that’s not the case here.

First, that term. According to the US Department of Agriculture, food security means access by all people at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life. The department estimates that in 2022, nearly a million people, including 262,260 children – about one in eight – in our state were food insecure. That’s 13% of children in homes without consistent access to adequate food.

Next, the office itself. It’s a small operation, and my staff communicates with Mr. Dinglasan directly, not through a team of underlings. Unlike true bureaucrats, he’s reachable and responsive.

The office isn’t another agency that exists to tell people what to do, or what they can’t do. It works with food banks, community groups and others to learn about conditions around the state, help coordinate efforts, and solicit suggestions for improvements. It also helps encourage eligible people, such as parents of school students, to apply for food assistance that’s already available.

That last part is similar to a bill that I introduced in September after meeting with an advocate for veterans. She had mentioned that many eligible veterans won’t apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), either because they don’t think it’s for them, or they’re too proud to apply to a general assistance program.

We agreed it would help to make sure veterans know they can and should apply by rebranding the program for veteran applicants.

The bill, A4780, would require the state to use the name “Veterans Assistance for Nutritional

Congressman Defends Israeli Leaders From War Crimes Warrants

From The Desk Of Congressman

WASHINGTON - Rep. Chris Smith (RNJ), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the Israel Allies Caucus, issued the following statement in response to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant:

“The ICC’s outrageous issuance of arrest warrants for Prime Minister Netanyahu and Minister Gallant is a grotesquely bad decision by a court that is corrupted by blatant antisemitism.

Needs Program” when marketing it to the veteran community.

The bill doesn’t expand eligibility or otherwise increase the costs of the existing program, benefits from which are fully funded by the federal government. It just sends the message to veterans that help is available if and when they need it.

It’s important to understand that food insecurity doesn’t just exist in some big cities elsewhere in our state. It also affects our neighbors and working families right here in Ocean County.

In fact, I was surprised to learn that our county is in the second highest of four categories for food insecurity, with between 9.7% and 11.6% of the population experiencing it. That’s based on 2022 information as provided by the state Department of Health.

While Ocean isn’t in the highest category, it is in the same category as Essex County, where Newark is, and Camden County which, of course, is home to Camden City.

Because this issue is important to families in our area, I’d like there to be an opportunity for area farmers to help while receiving something in return. Another bill I’ve introduced, A3407, requires the state Department of Agriculture to oversee a new “Farm to Food Bank Pilot Program” for farmers to contract with food banks to provide them with food.

The department would then provide a grant to the farmer to cover all or part of the food production costs. This would be a win-win for people who lack food and those who produce it.

Another bill I introduced, A3448, would help food banks and other nonprofit food providers with their costs of operating. It creates a grant program by which the department could provide funding to such organizations to offset the costs of their operations. The department is to use any available non-state grants or other money before using state funds.

But we can act now without state help. In this season of generosity, let’s remember those who are doing their best to get by, but have children who need proper food to grow, learn and thrive. Remember the veterans who served our country, but now need a little hand up.

If you can, pick any of the food banks, places of worship, or community groups that get food to those in need, and make a donation of money or some non-perishable food. Giving is good food for the soul.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 12 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex) and on Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.

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.

The ICC is a rogue actor on the world stage, and the United States must have a more effective long-term approach for how to respond to it. Their latest action is a further manifestation of the same antisemitism that is rampant at the United Nations and related international organizations. In this Congress alone, I’ve chaired four congressional hearings on how they are absolutely infiltrated by antisemitic personnel who on a daily basis go after Israel with such cruelty. With my strong support and vote, the House passed the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act in June to sanction the ICC for such abuse. The Senate should immediately pass this critical legislation. Israel needs the ability to defend itself - and they need friends and partners.”

Chris Smith

Bring e Family To ‘A Christmas Carol’

JACKSON – Rediscover the true meaning of holiday spirit. The Ocean County Library Jackson Branch is pleased to present the Traveling Literary Theater production of Charles Dickens’s venerable “A Christmas Carol,” 2 p.m. on December 14.

Photo courtesy Ocean County Library the “squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner” Ebenezer Scrooge.

New Jersey actors Charles Deitz, Sandra McLaughlin and Bill King, in full period garb, will enact the 70-minute piece that Dickens hand-edited and read to sold-out venues in America and Europe, bringing to life indelible characters, especially

Since founding Traveling Literary Theater in 2005, the trained professional actors have grown their repertoire to more than 17 historically-based and literary productions and have given nearly 600 performances. Register at tinyurl.com/OclJaCarol for this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, call 732-928-4400 or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Mayor Seeking Residents To Serve Community

JACKSON – The Mayor, along with the Township Council, strongly urge any resident who wishes to volunteer to serve on an advisory Board or Commission to submit a Citizen Leadership Form which can be found on our website at jacksontwpnj.net, under the Forms, Licenses and Permits section. Complete the entire application and attach a resume, if you have one. If you have questions regarding these Boards or Commissions, feel free to contact the Mayor’s office by phone, 732-928-1200 ext. 1211 or email at snovak@jacksontwpnj.net. All re-

quests for consideration should be received by December 20.

The following advisory boards and committees currently exist: Veterans Commission, Rent Leveling Board, Planning Board, Zoning Board, Economic Development Commission, Citizens Budget Advisory Committee, Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board, Pathfi nders, Environmental Commission, Historical Commission, Multicultural Committee, Open Space Advisory Committee and the Shade Tree Commission.

JACKSON – Put your skills to the test and create your best gingerbread house using ingredients provided. Get ready to unleash your inner architect and create your very own gingerbread houses to take home and show off ! Program will be on December 9 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Jackson Library. Please register all participants separately.

JACKSON – Come see Santa on December 14 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Shoprite Plaza at the Annual Fill-A-Truck Toy Drive hosted by Jackson Township Police and Fire. Come see Santa and make donations of toys for those in need!

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Regional Day School Student Of e Month & Sta Member Of e Month

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

MANCHESTER – Each month, the Regional Day School staff votes for the Staff Member and Student of the Month. A confidential ballot box and nomination ballots are kept in the Main Office where votes are cast. On the day of the month RDS staff meeting, the winners are announced and featured in the Spotlight section on the Regional Day School website as well as a featured bulletin board that welcomes all to RDS in the main school hallway.

Congratulations to Cherie Wennberg, Regional Day School’s Staff Member of

the Month for November! She is known as the biggest ray of sunshine bringing to work every day messages of kindness, encouragement, and positivity to all she encounters. Her happiness is contagious! And congratulations to Kwasi, Regional Day’s Student of the Month! He comes into school each day with a smile & excitement to learn. He was recently elected as our Student Council Vice President! We are proud of his progress & look forward to further growth this school year.

Police Department Announces Camera Registry Program

JACKSON – The Jackson Police Department is excited to announce the implementation of a Camera Registry Program!

Totally voluntary but extremely helpful to Law Enforcement for investigation of crimes! Officers, dispatchers, and detectives can locate citizen cameras in the area of their investigation and request video from certain dates or times.

Important: This will not allow them to enter your security cameras without your

permission or view videos you have stored. One you have registered, it puts an icon on their mapping system so officers, detectives and dispatchers can view who has cameras in the area which may assist. Once they see one that they may find helpful to view, you would be contacted for your assistance in the matter.

If you are interested in this program, visit: polaris.cameraregistry.net/registry/JacksonTownshipNJPolice.

NOW OPEN!

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES

JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

Retired

Let’s Talk About Stink Bugs

By Renee A. Thomaier

New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

It’s not easy thinking or talking about things that make us uncomfortable or uneasy, but we’re going to do so in this article. It’s better to be armed with information than to feel a sense of desperation should you encounter these bugs, particularly if they arrive in numbers.

The stink bug is an invasive species, arriving in the mid-1990s from eastern Asia. They were first collected in Allentown, PA in the fall of 1996. Their identification was not recognized until September of 2001. Quickly they spread to New Jersey, Virginia in 2004 and now to the border of North Carolina. Today they have been found in 44 states and the District of Columbia. The brown marmorated stink bug is considered a pest, feeding on plants, posing threats to farmers. As we approach the colder months, you may find them entering your house thru windows, cracks and other small access areas. They often seek the warmth of the sun by hanging out on the sides of buildings and trees during the day. By now, you’re probably wondering how to keep them out of your home. What about getting rid of them if they do take up residence? Preventive measures could be

periodic checking of cracks and crevasses, openings, window access, door frames, light switches, ceiling fans, for example. Using quality silicone or caulk to repair exposed areas, replacing/repairing damaged screens on doors and windows are key. Replace exterior lighting to yellow bulbs or sodium vapor lights may also help. Mostly they are controlled by insecticides.

The good news, yes, good news, is that they are also a benefit providing biological control of pests, such as caterpillars. That may not sound like much, but caterpillars can consume plants very quickly. Stink bugs do not pose any threat to humans. They don’t bite but handling them could cause them to release their well-known unpleasant odor. Surviving on plants, they suck the juice from the leaves, stems and roots of plants. They do not discriminate the plants they attack. 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.

Four Seasons At South Knolls Honors Our Bravest Residents

JACKSON – The FSSK Veterans Committee held its 19th annual Veterans’ Day celebration on November 9. Our community’s bravest men and women were honored and thanked for their valued and heroic service.

This year’s edition was extraordinary. It included the dedication of the Veterans Tribute monument donated by the Men’s Club. Our clubhouse lawn, lined with a hundred or so tagged flags, was forever more named Veterans Tribute Circle.

Special thanks go out to the Committee and Men’s Club who did an outstanding job hosting the event. The Heritage Club

December Events At e Plumsted Library

PLUMSTED – Check out these fun holiday themed events they are having at the Plumsted Library in December: December 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. –Christmas with the kind-Elvis Tribute Artist (Ruben)

December 17 at 2:30 p.m. – Chocolate covered pretzel dipping (if you want to come and participate bring your own cookie sheet!)

December 20 at 2:30 p.m. – Gingerbread house making with kiddos!

Christmas Decorating Contest

NEW EGYPT – The New Egypt Historical Society is sponsoring a Christmas Decorating Contest.

Judging of your home will take place during the week of December 8. Winners will be awarded a first, second, and third place ribbon. There will

also be an honorable mention for each category. Winners will be announced before Christmas. Categories are: Traditional; Religious; Humorous; Historical.

If you want your home judged, call Margaret at 609-758-7237.

Meals

Continued From Page 1

dishes. OCVTS then provides the packaging and containers needed for distributing these meals.

So, what’s on the menu? Corn bread, stuffing, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, sweet potato souﬄé, gravy, and of course turkey.

This year, culinary students worked with over 3,000 lbs. of turkeys, 1,500 lbs. of potatoes, 1,200 lbs. of sweet potatoes, 850 lbs. of stuffing, 450 lbs. of green beans, and 90 gallons of gravy.

“First, we have to let the turkeys sit for about five days to a week to thaw out,” Lesniak said. “The turkeys have to be broken down. Afterwards, the carcass and bones get roasted and prepared for stock to make gravy. That’s the fi rst section and most of that is done by the Culinary 2 students. The other classes participate in preparing mashed potatoes, sweet potato souﬄé, and green bean casserole.”

The meals are then packaged and distributed to various local social service agencies such as Preferred Behavioral Health, Department of Child Protection and Permanency (DCCP), Inspire NJ, and numerous local churches and school districts. Additionally, meals were provided to the Ocean County Sheriff ’s dispatch team who will be working on Thanksgiving this year. Lesniak noted that the need for meals have

increased greatly over the years in Ocean County.

“It’s increased steadily since we started. We thought we were hitting a milestone when we provided 1,000 meals, which was maybe 10 to 15 years ago. Then the next thing you know we’re up to 2,000. Last year we were close to 4,000 meals,” Lesniak said. “This year is actually less than last year. I’m not saying that the need is really any less, we just don’t have the distribution. Part of that I think is everything from the pandemic, to the cost of food. A lot of these organizations are also struggling. So, we lost some of our distribution.”

Feed the Need is the biggest meal preparation by the culinary arts students, many of whom plan to work in the food industry or further their culinary education after they graduate. Lesniak explained how they’re always encouraging students take part in community service projects and to give back to their community.

“There’s no other high school, college, culinary school that I know of that provides that number of meals to their local communities. As far as I know we’re the only one that makes such a big effort and try to reach as many people of we possibly can,” he said. “We also emphasize [to students] that we’re only scratching the surface on the hunger problem, even right here in Ocean County. But at least we’re trying to provide some holiday cheer for people who may not otherwise have a turkey dinner.”

Radio Club Sharpens eir Skills During “Fox Hunt”

Members of the Holiday City Amateur Radio Club start their “fox hunt” at the Holiday City South Clubhouse.

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY –

Somewhere in the vicinity, there is a fox, and it was up to the Holiday City Amateur Radio Club to fi nd it.

Of course, it wasn’t a real fox. The members called this exercise a “fox hunt” because it entails a group of people tracking down their prey. One member of the club goes off on their own and starts broadcasting a signal. The club members gathered at the Holiday City South Clubhouse to begin their search.

They held their antenna aloft, pointing

in different directions until they found a signal. The antenna were fashioned with PVC pipes and tape measures hooked up to receivers. Amazingly, these makeshift devices were able to tune in on the right frequency. Whereas antennas that used to sit atop televisions needed to be aimed at the broadcast towers, these antennas need to be pointed toward the fox.

Once they got a signal, they went to another location, just outside the Robert J. Miller Airpark. There, they took more readings. (Radio - See Page 20)

Photo by Chris Lundy

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

My Hearing Aid Is Dead Again It’s e Stupid Wax Guard!

Hearing aids can stop working for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is build-up in the wax guard. 99% of all hearing instruments have a white wax guard that is typically replaced by you or the hearing care professional. The wax guard protects the receiver of the hearing aid from getting clogged. If you fail to clean your hearing aids on a daily basis, the wax guard could potentially get clogged within a week. You should either clean the wax guard with a soft dry toothbrush or use Audio wipes. With custom hearing aids that are molded to your ears, the wax guard can easily be cleaned and replaced. For those of you that wear receiver in the canal hearing aids, you would typically have to remove the rubber dome to clean the wax guard and replace it. Make sure when you put the dome back on the receiver, that it’s properly secure or the dome may get lodged into your ear and you may not be able to remove it. If you are religiously replacing the

wax guard every week, it is more than likely that you have a significant amount of ear wax which should be removed by either your PCP or ENT. If you replace the wax guard and/or dome and the hearing aid is still not working, you should make an appointment with your hearing care professional.

In summary, make sure you clean your hearing aid on daily basis with a soft dry toothbrush. Consider purchasing Audio wipes from your hearing care professional which is a “non-alcohol” based wipe. These are extremely valuable for removing wax from the fi lter or dome. You should also be put on a 4-6 month schedule with your hearing health care professional to properly clean and adjust your hearing instruments. These visits should be at no charge.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always here to listen to your hearing care needs. Please feel free to contact our offi ce at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

When Your Heart Speaks: What Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Is Trying To Tell You

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Your heart is the ultimate multitasker—pumping tirelessly through your highs and lows, adjusting to life’s relentless demands. But sometimes, when under constant strain, it starts sending you signals that it’s overwhelmed. One such message is Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH), a condition where the walls of the left ventricle—the heart’s main pumping chamber—become abnormally thick. LVH is your heart’s way of saying, “Something’s off.”

LVH develops when your heart has to work too hard, often due to high blood pressure, stiff blood vessels, or even stress. While the thickening may initially seem like a coping mechanism, over time, it stiffens the heart walls and hampers blood flow. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and, in severe cases, heart failure. The good news? LVH isn’t necessarily permanent, and simple steps, medical and holistic, can make a world of difference.

LVH can be sneaky, especially in women. Hormonal shifts during menopause, pregnancy-related conditions like preeclampsia, and chronic stress can all raise your risk. Symptoms in women often mimic anxiety or other issues, leading to misdiagnosis. Palpitations or chest tightness may be dismissed as panic attacks, while shortness of breath and fatigue are chalked up to daily stress. Sometimes LVH is associated with hyperparathyroidism, and you can easily check your PTH levels.

Ignoring these symptoms is risky, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women. Recognizing LVH as a potential early warning sign empowers you to take action before serious complications arise.

Symptoms of LVH may include:

• Persistent fatigue

• Shortness of breath during routine activities

• Chest tightness or palpitations

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Swelling in the legs or feet

• Difficulty breathing when lying flat (orthopnea)

• Sudden nighttime shortness of breath (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea)

In advanced cases, cognitive changes like confusion or memory issues may appear, signaling reduced blood flow to the brain.

Certain medications may exacerbate LVH, such as decongestants or anabolic steroids. On the flip side, treatments like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers can reduce heart strain and even reverse some effects of LVH. Always consult your doctor about the best options for you.

A groundbreaking study highlighted how supplements like CoQ10, taurine, and carnitine can actually shrink the size of the left ventricle, improving heart efficiency. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Hawthorn extract is another option that has shown promise in reducing LVH and supporting overall heart function in early studies. While it’s not a standalone cure, its ability to promote healthier heart muscle structure makes it a valuable complement to other treatments.

Your heart’s cry for help, in the form of LVH, is a chance to pause, reflect, and take action. From proper nutrition to stress relief and targeted medications, you have the power to ease the burden on your heart. Because your heart isn’t just a muscle, it’s your lifeline. Listen to it, nurture it, and let it thrive. The world needs you, strong and healthy.

If you’re interested in a deeper dive into this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comprehensive blog 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.

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

The Law

What Are “Non-Probate Assets” In Estate Planning?

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

The terms “probate assets” and “non-probate assets” are often used when talking about estate planning and estate administration. It is important to understand the difference between the two.

Probate assets are those assets which pass under a Last Will and Testament. Conversely, non-probate assets are those assets which pass outside of the Will. Examples of non-probate assets include joint accounts marked “JTWROS” (joint tenants with rights of survivorship), “POD” (payable on death) accounts, and real property deeds in the names of both spouses. Other examples include insurance policies, IRA accounts, and annuities in which beneficiaries are specifically named.

Non-probate assets the assets pass upon death to certain other persons. The assets do not pass by way of the Will. For example, a bank account in the names of two persons marked “JTWROS” will automatically pass to the survivor upon the death of one of the joint owners. Similarly, if real property is owned by two married persons as “husband and wife” the property automatically passes to the surviving spouse upon the death of the fi rst spouse to die. Additionally, an IRA or insurance policy will pass to the person named as the beneficiary upon the death of the owner of the IRA or the policy.

What is most important to understand is that these assets do not pass under the terms of the Will. Thus, a mother can-

not, by her Will, leave a joint bank account to her son if the joint bank account is in the name of the mother and her daughter. Upon the mother’s death the account will go to the daughter. In the same sense, real property in the names of a “husband and wife” cannot be left by a Will to a third party until both spouses have passed away.

In preparing a Will, you must know what assets are considered probate assets and which are non-probate assets. You must understand what assets will pass under your Will and which will pass outside of your Will. The failure to understand how these assets will pass could render your estate planning meaningless. You must also understand the concept of non-probate assets even after your Will is complete. In some cases, a person may, by Will, intend to distribute their assets equally among their three children, but later put a bank account into a joint name with one of the children and not realize that the account will pass to that child alone and not to all three children.

Before preparing your Will, you should discuss with your attorney all of the assets in your name and determine whether the assets are probate or non-probate assets and how you want those assets to be distributed upon your passing.

Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for all your estate planning needs. (732) 505-1212.

Il Volo To Perform At Hard Rock Live At Etess Arena

ATLANTIC CITY – Italian superstar singers, Il Volo, are coming to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on March 22 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. All shows are subject to change.

Il Volo is one of the most famous Italian trios in the world, having captivated audiences on every continent with the

extraordinary voices of Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto and Gianluca Ginoble. With a career full of successes, they have collaborated with the biggest international stars and filled arenas worldwide, releasing a total of 13 albums - the latest, “Ad Astra,” released March 29 by Epic Records/ Sony Music Italy. In 2025, they will take their music worldwide again with a World Tour across the USA, Canada, and Latin America.

Play Mahjong At e Jackson Senior Center

JACKSON – Come and play Mahjong at the Jackson Senior Center! Beginners welcome! Group meets on Mondays at

11 a.m. and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. Call the center if you’d like to register or have any questions.

Spotlight On Business

New Sherwin-Williams Store Makes Its Debut In Jackson

– Whether you’re an amateur painter or a seasoned professional, your new Jackson Sherwin-Williams store has more options in decorating products than ever before to help home decorators and contractors transform a living space.

Located at 2275 West County Line Rd.

“Today’s home decorators have so many choices in textures, patterns and colors,” says Marco Matarazzo, manager of the new Sherwin-Williams store in Jackson.

“At Sherwin-Williams, we offer a selection of exceptional products, colors and expert, how-to advice from sales associates who really understand the products they sell.”

The new Jackson Sherwin-Williams store staff is also trained to help professional contractors with their jobs. Services include on-site delivery, custom color matching, credit programs, specification assistance and technical advice. For more information, call 848-373-7738.

Heart-Racing Suspense, Family Style: Virtual Author Talk With Laura Dave

Photo by Katherine Eskovitz

TOMS RIVER – Spine-tingling mystery tales become even edgier – and poignant - when a family is at the center. Master suspense storyteller Laura Dave will take you inside her newest novel, The Night We Lost Him, during her Ocean County Library Virtual Author Talk, 2 p.m. on

December 11.

“The Night We Lost Him” is flying off the shelves at the Ocean County Library, which carries it in hardcover, audiobook, Ebook and Eaudiobook formats along with Laura’s

“The Last Thing He Told Me,” “The First Husband,” “Hello, Sunshine,” “London is the Best City in America,” “Eight Hundred Grapes” and “The Divorce Party.”

Her latest pulse-pounder brings estranged siblings Nora and Sam into a tenuous partnership to probe the death of their father Liam Noone, a tycoon with three ex-wives and a cozy cottage on a California cliff where his fatal plunge was ruled accidental. What they discover is a family secret that changes everything.

Consistently atop the New York Times bestseller list, Laura’s novels have been translated into 38 languages. “The Night We Lost Him” is one of six that has been optioned for film and television. Register at libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary to attend this free program, to view the upcoming schedule, and to view previous talks. Registrants will receive links to the program by email and may submit questions for the author during signup

JACKSON

While the summer season is long behind us, there is still plenty of marine life to see at the Jersey Shore. Recently, Amy Lynn Johnson of Toms River was walking the sand at Island Beach State Park where she found a beached starfish and a sea goose berry. Amazing, isn’t it? Want to see your pics in this space? Email photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may even win a prize!

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. Head Start Is Accepting Pre-School Applications For 2024-2025

OCEAN COUNTY – O.C.E.A.N., Inc.

Kids/Head Start (not for profit organization) is accepting applications for the FREE Head Start Pre-School Program for income eligible families.

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. invites the public to call and schedule an appointment to visit our centers located throughout Ocean County including: Brick, Manchester, Toms River,

Lakewood, Home Based.

Head Start Program Features:

• Developmentally appropriate curriculum

• Vision, hearing, dental screenings

• Developmental screenings

• Children with special needs are welcome

• Field trips

• Parent involvement activities

• Nutritious snacks daily

• Professionally trained staff

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. provides developmentally appropriate practices, accepting children from income eligible families between the ages of 2 to 5 years. Through a scheduled appointment, parents and children will be able to tour the center (s), meet the staff, learn about the developmentally appropriate curriculum and enroll their children.

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. appreciates volunteers at all Head Start Centers. For further information and to learn more about how you can register your child in Head Start call 732-341-7557 Ext. 1227 or visit us on the web at oceaninc.org to download an application.

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. is sponsored by CACFP and is an equal opportunity provider.

Real Estate

House For Sale - Adult Community Pheasant Run in Forked River. $289,000. For more information call 609-290-9702. (47)

For Rent

Adult Community - WhitingCrestwood Village 5 (55+). 2 BD, 1 BA, washer/dryer, garage, AC. No pets. No smoking. $1,400/ month, plus utilities. 732-864-1419. Cell 732-604-0323. (51)

LBI, Monthly WINTER Rental2 BR 1.5 Bath, Steps2Beach Upscale Modern, Immaculate Furnished Unit in Duplex, Ocean Views, Parking $1800/month. No Pets, smoke free. Call/text 973-997-9655 for Pics. (51)

Misc.

Personals

Active Male, Age 60 - Fun, outgoing. Seeks female for dinner, movie, trips. Seeking stable well rounded female. Brick area. 973-270-4798. (52)

Items For Sale

Exercise Equipment - Precor EFX

5.17 Elliptical Fitness Cross Trainer.

Ex Cond. $475; Schwinn 250 Bio Fitness Recumbent Exercise Bike. Ex Cond. $175; 732-232-5016. (1)

Electric Scooter - New. Great for seniors. Rechargeable charger included. Front basket, air tires, red. Local. Can deliver. Best offer. 732-736-6583. (52)

Priced 2 Sell Musical InstrumentsEntry & Intermediate Banjos, Keyboards, Acoustic & Lapsteel Guitars. Ocean County Resident. Call Mike at 201-315-8608. (52)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ 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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums, Rock, Reggae, Jazz, Blues. Also buying Comic Books. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (51)

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)

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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)

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)

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

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full/part time CNA. Must be licensed, and available to work weekends. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal. com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (52)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full and part time Dietary Aides If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal. com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (52)

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)

Services

ADVANCED 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)

Avon Sales - Eyeliner, eye shadow, perfume, men's cologne. Call for a brochure 732-330-4189 or 848287-3944. If you are interested in selling Avon contact 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944. (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)

Italian/American Couple - looking to clean, laundry or drive. Please call Christopher or Mary Ann at 732-475-7770 or 732-948-2025. (49)

Services

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 RITE -

Free 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)

Senior Campanion CaregiverRetired RN. Meal prep, transport to appointments, shopping, showering, light housekeeping. Contact Chris 845-430-1853. (48)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)

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

Services Services Services

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 732-5003063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

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)

Reliable, Experienced, Private duty - (No agency fees.) Caregiver/ Home Health aide Available. Live-in, or hourly in Southern Jersey area. Call 732-867-6686. (48)

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)

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

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)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

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

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

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

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale • Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

Services

For Rent

Real Estate

Other

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

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

Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in

Thank you St. Jude for an-swering my prayer. SR. (52)

Radio:

Continued From Page 11

The process continued until they found the transmitter.

It’s a way for the group to train themselves. Larry Puccio, treasurer of the group, said all amateur radio enthusiasts are licensed by the Federal Communications Commission. Hunts like this help keep their skills in practice for any emergency.

The radio club members will offer up their services during storms that cause power outages, as most towns have CERT – Community Emergency Response Teams. They’ll use their knowledge and skills to fill in the blanks when other forms of communication fail.

John Roberts said when he was living in Alabama he was a tornado spotter. “We could spot a tornado before the weather bureau.” They’d let the public know and

save lives.

That’s not to say that club members don’t do it just for fun. Member Jeff Pennell said he loves to just get on there and chat with whoever else might be on. You never know who you’ll meet.

Pennell said he got his license when he was 10 and he’s 68 now. “It’s fun to get on the air. Once you get the gear and put it up, you don’t have to spend a lot of money” on the hobby. The last time he bought equipment

it cost $300 used. It was 30 years old and still worked. “If you take care of something, it will last.”

Despite the club’s name, not all of the members were from Holiday City. Doug Poray, the president of the club, said that the American Radio Relay League provides a lot of background information, or you can visit HCARC.us. People interested in joining can call him at 732-928-2316.

Volunteers Needed At New Jersey Blood Services

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

The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area.

No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform tasks as needed and must provide proof of COVID Vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors.

For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

School District In Need Of Transportation Aides

JACKSON – The Jackson School District has a serious need for Transportation Aides for the coming year. Please share this information with anyone who might be interested in earning $18.50 per hour with flexible hours while helping students! HS Diploma or GED and criminal background check required.

See the job posting and job description to apply ASAP! Visit jacksonsd.org.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

“The Spirit Of Scrooge”: A New Chapter Of A Classic Story

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK

– Have you ever thought about what happens to Ebenezer Scrooge after the events in “A Christmas Carol?”

In the famous story, now nearly 200 years old, Scrooge is a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas. He’s visited by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come, resulting in Scrooge having a change of heart.

But what if there’s more to the story?

“The Spirit of Scrooge” is a play written by local actor and director Corey Crawford that covers one more chapter in the story of Ebenezer Scrooge.

Crawford is a member of the Guild Theaterworks, which put on “A Christmas Carol” a couple years ago. The show being their first full scale Christmas production in a long time sparked the idea of continuing the story.

“It goes back a couple years ago when we first did the traditional Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol.’ I had the idea of exploring what Scrooge’s life became after all the events of Christmas Carol,” Crawford explained.

In 2023, Crawford wrote the play “A New Scrooge” which took place in the year after “A Christmas Carol.” “The Spirit of Scrooge” carries on with Scrooge’s tale years later.

“The new play jumps further down the road, about 15 years later. In the original story, Scrooge is estimated to be 60 to 65 years old. And now scrooge is 80 years old in this new play,” he said. “Scrooge has become this good person and has maintained the ‘Christmas Spirit,’ but there’s still a few things that he feels unresolved in his life; he’s reliving that.”

“You have the story of ‘A Christmas Carol’

and all of a sudden, he just becomes this new person right away. But you never get to see how it was. Was it that easy? Did everyone love him right away? He was known as such a nasty person for a while, and you see what he actually had to go through and deal with,” Crawford noted.

Not only did Crawford write and direct the two plays, but he will once again be playing Scrooge. He’ll be alongside some returning cast reprising roles.

“Some of the same characters are from ‘A New Scrooge,’ a lot of the same family.

Tiny Tim is now an adult,” Crawford said. “There’s a lot of flash back scenes. We see some older characters.”

“It’s a very emotional story that will tug at the heart strings, as we take a look at some of the last things in Scrooge’s life,” Crawford added.

The cast includes: Corey Crawford as Ebenezer Scrooge; Sean O’Scanlon as Bob Cratchit; Windber R. Brandt as Fred; Jeff Hand as Philip Pittman; Herbie Brandt as Tim Cratchit/Corwin; Jess Meszaros as Belle; Christopher Ottman as Nicholas/ Young Fred; Christine Pryor as Mrs. Scrooge; Sicilia Booker as Fan; Diane Hand as Mrs. Cratchit; and Windber R. Brandt as Older Corwin.

Production staff includes Director Corey Crawford; Stage Manager Michele Vittorioso; Technical Director Ivan Hahn; and Technical Engineer Kaitlyn Glynn.

Performances are at the Anstett Cultural Arts Center, 515 Herbertsville Road, Brick.

Showtimes are December 6, 7, 13, and 14 at 7 p.m. and December 8, 14, and 15 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available for an $8 donation. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 732-552-3930.

Photo courtesy Corey Crawford

Corey Crawford as Ebenezer Scrooge and Christine Pryor as Mrs. Scrooge rehearse for “The Spirit Of Scrooge.”

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 “__ your age!”

Hound 7 Mischievous sprite

For instance

Bach work 15 “Fore!” site 16 __-K 17 Record collection?

18 “And there’s more” abbr. 19 Extra NBA periods 20 Simple style 21 Meringue-based confection 23 Perched on 25 Defensive retort 26 MVP of the first Super Bowl 30 Copies, for short

Flying start?

With 60-Across, undefeated boxer who wrote the cookbook “Food for Life”

Prefix between kiloand giga-

Passage

Do better than

See 47-Across

Mauna __

Brandy-based cocktail, and a hint to locating the second part of four three-part puzzle

Justice Dept. arm Down 1 “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” band 2 Really overcook 3 Lug 4 Org. with a long track record?

5 Language spoken along the Bering Sea 6 Eat at 7 Agenda listing 8 Like five bones in the hand 9 Nocturnal piglike mammal 10 Athletic apparel 11 “Star Wars” droid nickname 12 Basic question type 14 Stick on a crudit s platter 22 Latin 101 word

Sudden attack 35 Bentley of “Yellowstone” 38 Inventor who coined the term 67 Leaves in hot water? 68 “The Matrix” hero

Dandelion part

Italian cream cheese 40 Where stars may align

Miss in the game of Clue

Flamenco cheer

Brief exercise?

Hardly seaworthy

Turnpike toll factor

German industrial city

Trickery

“All done!”

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You might enjoy being the center of attention. Spending time with loved ones and admirers could consume your weekend. Consider waiting until at least the middle of the week, however, to begin any new projects or routines.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may have been gathering ideas and working up the courage to make a significant change, yet you might not feel completely ready in the upcoming week. Be patient while the last pieces fall into place and watch things come together.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Be mindful not to let criticism drive you off course in the week ahead. You might steer your way toward your goals if you’re ready to deal with obstacles; whether or not you reach them may depend upon your moral fortitude.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You may benefit from a style refresh to stay up to date on the current fashion. You might be asked to attend formal functions in the week ahead. Don’t get too caught up in outdated traditions. Relax, you won’t be judged harshly.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Holiday spirit paired with an optimistic outlook may inspire you to take action. Consider avoiding taking unnecessary risks in the early part of the week. Traveling or studying with others could broaden your educational horizons.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): People may abandon a situation at the first sign of trouble. Things could seem challenging for a few days. It could be wise to wait and see how events unfold before making any drastic decisions. Don’t take criticism personally.

FOR THE WEEK OF DEC 7 - DEC 13 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Embrace the journey ahead and enjoy the cheerful holiday season. When it comes to business and professional life, it may be wise to trust the experts to take the lead. Stay positive and you’ll overcome any negativity that comes your way.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Aim to be well informed with the facts close at hand. Reflect on what has worked for you in the past and what hasn’t. Reevaluate old habits that may hinder your progress and aim to streamline your daily routines and behaviors.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Be extra careful about getting your bills paid on time and honoring your obligations this week. Look for ways to let people know how reliable you are. Being trustworthy may benefit you in ways you might not have imagined.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Any task worth doing is worth doing well. Put your best foot forward in your responsibilities and endeavors this week. Stay focused and don’t let emotions sway you if someone tries to tempt you away from hopes and dreams.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t hide your dreams to avoid expected criticism. Your loved ones may be more supportive than you think if you’re willing to trust them with your heart. They might want to encourage and support you in achieving your goals.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You might notice flaws in many things during the next several days. It’s important to focus on being helpful and constructive rather than critical. Think of ways to offer promising solutions and support instead of highlighting faults.