“Care Closet” Helps Students In Compassionate Way
Townhome Development Cut Back
By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER
– The Township Council changed some zoning that would block multifamily townhomes from being proposed there.
Town offi cials determine the zoning of property – in other words, what is allowed to be built there. Some land has an overlay zone, which means there are two different zones.
By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER – Students
Closet at Manchester Township High School.
Care
who need a little help, but might be too embarrassed to ask, can stop by the
The closet is full of personal care products, a washer and (Care Closet - See Page 4)
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 (Meals - See Page 5)
Mayor Robert Arace explained that ordinance 24-40 involved townhome overlays that had previously been placed. This had made townhomes a conditional use, meaning that it could be built.
“There is a lot of volume from residential development coming and coming rapidly,” he said, so they sought to prevent that.
"We are forming a Master Plan Committee to more carefully craft the future of the town and its development."
-Mayor Robert Arace
“We are forming a Master Plan Committee to more carefully craft the future of the town and its development,” the mayor said. “We are taking those conditions away which would allow for various zones that townhomes could be built if actually submitted. We’d be taking away those conditional uses and overlays. There are other uses in those zones.”
“We are taking the town home unit component away,” the mayor further explained. He said the other uses included industrial business zones “where we could have more commercial type development which had residential overlays over them. This isn’t about a particular application. It is about how things can generally be done by zone in the town.” He noted that it was 2017 when the overlays were added into the township code.
Township Attorney Lauren Staiger said “even though they are being removed, it was an oversight originally. It shouldn’t have been there to begin with. This is specific
(Development - See Page 4)
Photo courtesy Manchester Schools (Above) Students and school staff take part in the Care Closet ribbon cutting at Manchester Township High School. (Right) Students can do their own laundry and pick up items they need at the Care Closet.
Photos courtesy OCVTS Thousands of meals were prepared by culinary students.
Care Closet:
Continued From Page 1
dryer, and even some food and clothing. Students can access the Care Closet by scanning codes found on fliers around the school to schedule times when they can confidentially access things they need. The students are also encouraged to arrange for laundry services.
The Care Closet was first conceived around a year ago when Speech Language Specialist Stephanie Boyd noticed a need among students for personal care products and laundry services. She applied for a grant at the end of the last school year to support The Care Closet initiative.
The grant was awarded to the district by
Development:
Continued From Page 1
to what was originally drafted or recommended by the professionals. It is cleaning everything up.”
Normally, an ordinance has to be introduced, and then have a second reading before it goes into effect. Mayor Arace explained that this was actually the third reading. They let this ordinance have an extra public notice.
He explained that this ordinance won’t block all residential development, just high density development.
“It really is for the township to take a step back, look at it and to look at our long term strategy and to reduce the amount of
Ocean County Youth Services and approved by the Board of Education to move forward.
In addition to the grant, donations came in from students and staff, the National Honor Society and Key Clubs, from High Ridge Brands LLC, and from Rite Aid who donated extra shelves.
What followed was a year-long effort of turning an appropriate, private, and spacious area of the high school into the Care Closet. The custodial staff built the space. Junior Lina Taylor planned the closet’s design and layout. She recruited her Girl Scout Troop and their families to paint the walls and trim. Taylor and her Girl Scout Troop not only raised donated items for the Care Closet but she then proudly dedicated her own time to stocking the shelves with all of the donated products.
residential development to keep the character of our town rural and suburban,” the mayor added.
Mayor Arace brought up concerns of “rapid expansion west (of the township) and a lot of interest has been taken in the western part of Ocean County. So what we are doing - rather than having a fight with every single potential thing that could happen - is that we are removing the ability of it happening in the fi rst place.”
Resident Gail Apgar asked the mayor about single family homes within the township to which he replied, “we have a variety of different type of residential zones, R10 would be Pineland Park, R40 would be Roosevelt City.” He added, “those are single family under
Superintendent Diane Pedroza was among the many who joined in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. She shared with the group her gratitude for their “unwavering commitment and hard work in supporting the development of a Care Closet for township students.”
Providing students with access to essential hygiene products and other necessary items builds more than confidence. School administrators and teachers said it strengthens their social and emotional well-being, encourages positive school attendance, and supports academic growth.
School officials noted that the need for access to these essential products has never been more urgent. With high prices on some of these necessities, many students face daily challenges in maintaining their health, dig-
one acre lots, 100 by 100 foot lots. What we are doing here is that there are zones within the 82 square miles of town where they were originally industrial. In 2017 there were conditional uses added on top with these layers that would allow for the building of townhomes. Single family homes in their proper zones can still be built.”
“So, Roosevelt City would stay as a single dwelling and there won’t be townhouses going in?” Apgar asked.
“The effort here is to take away the ability of building the townhomes,” Mayor Arace clarified.
Exchange Of Land Approved
Also approved was Ordinance 24-46 that concerned the exchange of properties
nity, and self-esteem.
The supplies at the Care Closet also support the Care Cupboard located at Manchester Township Middle School as well as elementary school needs as requested by those schools.
The Care Closet was opened for business at a very appropriate time: World Kindness Day. This is an international holiday that began in 1998 to promote kindness throughout the world. It is observed in many countries including the United States, Canada, Japan and Australia.
The day presents the opportunity to reflect upon one of the most important and unifying human principles, a day devoted to the positive potential of both large and small acts of kindness that brings people across the globe together.
between the township and Ocean County.
“Does this mean some of this land will be bought by Ocean County?” Apgar asked the Council.
“No, it is preserved for open space. The county did an open space land acquisition a couple years ago. There were land subdivisions and the town has some of those as well so we are exchanging those that are closer to the county. Those will be given to them and they are giving us land that is closer to us so we can consolidate them but it is open space for open space,” Business Administrator Carl Block responded. Councilman Craig Wallis was the lone vote against Ordinance 24-44 which authorized the exchange of lands between the township and developer Jeffrey Jerman.
Meals:
Continued From Page 1
Medical Center, who supply the grocery products for the side 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 first 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.”
S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT
O cials Call On BPU To Reject Electric Rate Increases
Capitol Comments
Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District
TRENTON - Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre sent a letter to the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) calling on President Christine Guhl-Sadovy to reject Atlantic City Electric’s proposed 8% electricity rate increase.
“Already, too many ratepayers cannot
afford to pay their electric bills. An 8% rate increase will only push more ratepayers to their financial limits while disproportionately impacting those living on fixed or retirement incomes struggling to remain in their current housing,” wrote the Delegation.
Atlantic City Electric recently fi led with the BPU seeking approval for their proposed electricity rate increase which would cost residential customers approximately $12.96 more per month.
You can read the full letter below:
Dear President Guhl-Sadovy:
As you and your staff are fully aware from the correspondence sent by our Delegation this year, Atlantic City Electric customers in our Legislative District have been hit hard by sharp rate increases causing unforeseen fi nancial hardships for many struggling seniors and working families.
There is growing alarm since Atlantic City Electric recently filed a rate case with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities for approval of a rate increase in which residential customers would see their bills increase by 8% or approximately $12.96 per month.
In no uncertain terms, our Delegation is
calling on the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to outright reject the 8% rate increase sought by Atlantic City Electric. Already, too many ratepayers cannot afford to pay their electric bills. An 8% rate increase will only push more ratepayers to their fi nancial limits while disproportionately impacting those living on fi xed or retirement incomes struggling to remain in their current housing.
Thank you, in advance, for your attention to this request sent in representing the people of the 9th Legislative District. To speak with representatives from the 9th Legislative District, please contact Jason Smith at jsmith@njleg.org.
Congressman Defends Israeli Leaders From War Crimes Warrants
From The Desk Of Congressman
Chris Smith
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. 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.”
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.
Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.
Wound Care Institute of Ocean County
C OMMUNITY N EWS
Borough Of Lakehurst Schedules Holiday Festivities
LAKEHURST – The crisp chill in the air is a reminder to us all that the holiday season is fast approaching. In the spirit of the season, the Borough of Lakehurst has begun planning its annual holiday festivities.
On December 13, downtown Lakehurst will be lit up as the Borough holds its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. in front of the Lakehurst Community Center, 207 Center Street.
Following the tree lighting, residents and
guests are invited into the Community Center for refreshments and a visit with Santa.
The judging of the annual holiday lighting contest will be held during the week of December 16 to 26. The judges will have the difficult task of judging the wonderful display of lights for both businesses and residences.
Come join the Borough of Lakehurst in spreading some holiday joy. For more information, please contact the Borough Hall at 732-657-4141.
Bingo At Crestwood Village 5
WHITING – Thursday is Bingo day at Crestwood Village 5! Doors open 9 a.m. Bingo sheets start selling at 10:45 a.m. Bingo calling starts at 12:30 p.m.
To all residents: We are in need of volunteers for the following positions:
• Set up crew - tables and chairs are set before and after all functions. Contact Carmine 908-235-2936.
• Bingo caller - 12:30 to 3 p.m. on Thurs-
Le
days. Pick your own schedule.
• Bingo floor walker - 12:30 to 3 p.m. on Thursdays. Verify numbers on winners’ sheets. Pick your own schedule.
• Bingo 50/50 sellers - 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Pick your own schedule.
• Kitchen helpers - all functions that require food service. Pick your own schedule. For more information call: Ronnie 908303-7377.
ers To Santa
MANCHESTER – Manchester Recreation will be collecting letters to Santa at Christmas in the Pines on December 7 in their North Pole mailbox.
For your convenience, please feel free to print out their letter to Santa posted on their Facebook and fi ll it out at home. Please make sure your child’s name and address is legible. If you have multiple
children, please place all letters in an envelope together to be mailed.
The elves will be working all night on December 7 & 8 to make sure your child’s letter gets to the North Pole by the afternoon of December 9. The morning of December 9 is the deadline to ensure your child receives a return letter from Santa by Christmas.
Lakehurst Elementary School
2nd Annual Turkey Trot
Julia Wilkens
LAKEHURST – Lakehurst Elementary School proudly presents the second annual Turkey Trot! Students and staff alike dressed up to represent various Thanksgiving representations while either running or walking the course. Turkeys, pilgrims, Native Americans, and pumpkin pies were some of the costumes students wore. Music and parent viewers helped to cheer on our student trotters.
Pictured is Ms. Maggie McNair dressed as a forked along with 5th grade fi rst place winner for best costume, Annalise. She has the attitude of gratitude.
Bowling Ministry To Host King Of e Hill Bowling Tournament
WHITING – St. Stephen’s Whiting Bowling Ministry will once again host the King Of The Hill Bowling Tournament next month on December 22 at 6 p.m. at Playdrome Lanes, Toms River.
Join for this grand and exciting event which will feature the area’s finest bowlers going head-to-head in scratch
competition. Trophies and medals will be awarded as well as cash prizes for high game, high series, and for the King & 2nd place winners!
For further information call: Bill Bodine - Bowling Ministry Chairman 848-2104206, St. Stephen’s Parish Office 732-3502121, or Playdrome Lanes 732-349-5345.
Crestwood Village 6 New Years Eve Dance
WHITING – Crestwood Village 6 Residents Club presents News Years Eve Dance – A Magical Winter Night on December 31 from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Music by DJ Billy Phillips. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Catered buffet style dinner, including dessert. 50/50 raffles, and door prizes!
Whiting Fire Company To Host Santa Day
WHITING – Santa Day will be on December 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Whiting Volunteer Fire Company #1, 120 Lacey Road. No admission charge. Pizza with Santa, ballon animals, glitter tattoos, and pictures
with Santa. Sponsored by the Whiting Fire Ladies Auxiliary.
RSVP required. RSVP to Diane Serrano at 732-948-6025 or email to LadiesAuxillary@whitingfi re.org to reserve your spot!
Photo courtesy Lakehurst Elementary School
C OMMUNITY N EWS
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 Presi-
Photo courtesy Manchester Schools dent! We are proud of his progress & look forward to further growth this school year.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR ADMINISTRATOR:
Rose Garden is one of the few “mom and pop” skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers left ... in the state of New Jersey. The world has turned “corporate;” we have not.
It has been our core belief that the delivery of healthcare is quite personal. That “intimacy” is in danger when 5 to 100 facilities are operated in multiple states by large corporations.
We have always strived for a close “family” atmosphere and believe we have succeeded. The environment is warm and inviting and exceedingly clean and spotless. Our homemade food and soups are outstanding, and the care is thoughtful, kind and productive.
We have been called the “Hotel of Healthcare.”
Please ask your friends, neighbors and, most importantly, other healthcare professionals. We are here, in your neighborhood, to serve you!
A Cup Of Mustang Joe’s Hits e Spot
MANCHESTER – It is Thanksgiving Dinner Day in the Manchester Township Middle School (MTMS) cafeteria and, while the food service workers are ready to greet students in style, the Mustang Joe’s Coffee & Treat Cart kicked off the day with a similar Thanksgiving theme!
Each week, the small group instructional classes at MTMS run The Mustang Joe’s Coffee Cart, a small business featuring seasonal drinks, treats, and today a raffle that helps to fund the impressive Mustang Joe’s operation.
Mustang Joe’s is an opportunity for middle school students in the small group instructional classes to learn many life and business skills. Each week, staff and students from across MTMS place an order via a Google Form between Monday and Thursday morning. This gives the small group instructional classes time to organize, prepare, and fill the orders ahead of distribution. On event day, their classroom becomes a coffee shop, buzzing with students who are busy freshly brewing hot and iced coffee, making lemonade and sun teas, as well as whipping up their special “Room 102 Brew” which is a sun tea/lemonade mix. No detail is left behind as the ice cubes are customized to the drink, the labels are personalized to the staff member or event, and the cart is always themed. The morning is spent filling orders before 9 a.m. when the cart departs. The Mustang Joe’s cart has grown so popular that the cart has to make multiple trips. Some students stay behind to fulfill orders as other students travel the building to deliver orders with a smile. Each student has a job such as being a Greeter, Cashier, Delivery Specialist, Server and
Photo courtesy Manchester Schools Barista. This brings them the opportunity to exercise their math, public speaking, socialization, culinary, life/skills, communication, teamwork and so much more. Supplies for The Mustang Joe’s Coffee Cart are provided to the students thanks to the generous donations made by community members through DonorsChoose. Funds raised by The Mustang Joe’s Coffee Cart are used for more supplies and even class trips! The Thanksgiving Themed Cart featured seasonal drink options including pumpkin spiced cold brew and an additional cart with a giveaway thanks to Principal Nancy Driber who hand-made an all-chocolate cornucopia being raffled off tomorrow! The proceeds for the raffle directly benefit The Mustang Joe’s Cart operations. We look forward to seeing what The Mustang Joe’s Coffee & Treat Cart debuts after Thanksgiving Recess. Mrs. Strange and Ms. Stinemire-Tordik’s small group instruction classes usually host a yearly Staff Cookie Exchange with Mustang Joe’s but will they also treat us to a Cocoa Cart? We can not wait to see!
C OMMUNITY N EWS
Students Explore Career Opportunities
MANCHESTER – Twenty students from Manchester Township High School (MTHS) students were invited to attend the New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) Industry Career Workshop.
Students traveled to the NJNG location in Wall Township for the event. It was there that they were awarded a behind the scenes facilities tour featuring the Carbon Capture center, the Gas Control Monitoring room, the Incident Command Truck, and Advanced Mobile Leak Detection Vehicle.
Students interacted with and learned from career professionals with professional backgrounds in engineering, repairs, mechanics, emergency response workers, and more. Students were able to learn about the carbon containment unit (carbinx), the first of its kind in New Jersey that focuses on the reduction of carbon emissions and even lends itself to repurposing carbon in soap (each student received a bar of their own soap in addition to some NJNG swag after our visit!)
“Seeing the carbon computer which took up an entire wall was really neat,” said one MTHS student. Another student shared that “the cars with the new technology and explanation of lasers for detection were pretty interesting!” While another noted
how “learning where our heat comes from and how much calculating and precision is involved was really interesting; I’d never given it that much thought before.”
MTHS JA to NJNGDuring group activities, MTHS students had the opportunity to share their career interests ranging from diesel mechanics and welding to military, biology, and engineering. Students were intrigued by the job descriptions, narratives, and technology made available by NJNG. Other students expressed curiosity about the summer internship programs offered to candidates at the starting age of 17 years old; specific details are often shared with Ocean County Vocational Schools where students can follow up.
“Learning about all the job opportunities and storm response overtime available was cool: that made it an experience that could lead to a job in the pretty near future,” shared another MTHS student.
MTHS JA to NJNGThank you to Junior Achievement New Jersey and NJNG for the unique opportunity for our students to learn from and speak with the experts, explore new technology, compete in a pipe-fitting team-building activity alongside engineers, and share a variety of experiences.
Holiday Gi s And Christmas Open House
LAKEHURST – If you are looking for unique gifts this holiday season, then consider visiting the Lakehurst Historical Society Museum. The museum, located at 300 Center Street in Lakehurst, is open on Sundays and Wednesdays, from 12:30 to 3 p.m.
The museum gift shop has many items which make particularly good gifts: books celebrating the rich local history of the area, including lighter-than-air as well as Pine Barrens lore, t-shirts, mugs, postcards, blankets,
We’d love to help you thrive during your golden years—let’s talk about how.
Come visit us and explore whether your plan supports the way you want to live.
and “blimp” pins are also available. Additionally, the museum will host an open house on December 13 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. corresponding with the annual Lakehurst holiday tree lighting. See the beautiful decorations which include antique toys and games. If you have visited the museum before or if you are a first-time visitor, there should be something of interest to you. Tours are also available upon request. For additional information, call 732-657-8864.
Lakehurst Fire Santa Gi Run
LAKEHURST – Lakehurst Fire Department annual Santa Gift Run on December 22 starting at 1 p.m.
Please bring gifts to the Lakehurst Fire Department on December 10 or 17 between 6 to 8 p.m. All gifts should be wrapped, be smaller than a shoebox, have a name and address visible.
Photo courtesy Manchester Schools
•
•
•
•
•
Crestwood Village Six Movie Night
WHITING – On December 13, “POMS” will be shown. This heartfelt and hilarious comedy is about a woman who starts a cheerleading squad at a retirement community in Georgia. It stars Diane Keaton, Jacki Weaver, Pam Grier, Celia Weston and Rhea Perlman. It was inspired by the true story of the Sun City Poms, a cheer squad with members ranging in age from 55 to 88. The Poms were fi rst formed back in the 70’s, initially as part of the Sun City Saints women’s softball team.
The movie is rated PG-13 and runs 1 hour and 31 minutes. The movie is shown closed-captioned for the hearing impaired.
Doors will open at 5 p.m. and the movie starts at 6 p.m. Come early to sit, chat and enjoy light refreshments that will be served until 5:45 p.m. The movie will be shown at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting/ Manchester off of Pinewald Keswick Road (Route 530).
Feel free to bring your own chair or cushion, if the provided chairs do not suit you, however, please do not block others’ views. All are welcome for the cost of $3 which includes some light refreshments. Feel free to bring your own snacks. Non-residents of Crestwood Village Six are always welcome. Any questions call Arlene at 732-408-5147.
Hannukah Menorah Lighting
MANCHESTER – This year Hannukah falls on Christmas Day. We cannot get a good date for our annual menorah lighting festival in Village Hall 6, so the problem is solved by combining joining Chabad of Toms River at the Manchester Town Hall on December 26. We will be singing and dancing and eating.
This will be a wonderful event for all ages. Kosher food and drinks will be compliments of Chabad, please do not bring any nonkosher food.
The exact time will be announced as we get closer. For more information contact: michaelitt@aol.com.
Sound News
Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)
CLINICAL DERMATOLOGY
Acne Treatment • Eczema Treatment
Mole Removal • Wart Removal
Seborrhea/Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment
Skin Cancer Treatment • Skin Infections
COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY
CoolSculpting • Botox
Chemical Peel - VI Peel
Microdermabrasion • Scar Revision
Treatment of Acne Scarring
YAG Laser
SKIN CANCER SURGERY CENTER
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Superficial Radiotherapy
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
Santiago Centurion, MD
Cynthia Gelnaw, PA-C
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.
Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).
THERAPIES/SERVICES
• Hormone Replacement
• IV Therapies
• Thermascan
• Cryoskin • HOCATT
• Colonics • PEMF
• Salt Room/Halotherapy
• Theta Chamber
• Ozone • Botox
• Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management
• Peptides
63 Lacey Rd. Unit C • Whiting, NJ 08759 609-978-9002 • www.ICAMNJ.com
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 first 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 cannot, 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.
Resident’s Club Crestwood Village 5 New Year Party
WHITING – Resident’s Club Crestwood Village 5 New Year Party will be on December 31 from 7 p.m. till 12:30 a.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Dinner at 7 p.m. Music by “Donny Pesce.” Cost is $55 per person. Non-refundable unless canceled. Includes: buffet caterer by Italy’s Best. Menu: chicken franchise, sausage and peppers, penne vodka pasta, eggplant
parmesan, meatballs, string beans, bread and butter, salad, dessert, snacks, noisemakers, tiaras, and hats, soft drinks, and coffee.
Purchase tickets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. till 12 p.m. at Village 5 clubhouse 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. Last day to purchase tickets is December 17. Call Debbie at 201-618-8514.
Holiday Home Decorating Contest
MANCHESTER – Manchester Township is alive with holiday spirit! This year, they will have three categories for their Holiday Home Decorating Contest: 1st place $100; 2 nd place $75; 3 rd place $50.
If you are a previous winner, you must change your display for this year’s con-
test. Register on Edmunds, then send your best photo (photos only, no videos) of your decorations with your name and email address to recreation@manchestertwp.com by December 13. Judging will take place the week of December 16. Please leave your lights on until 11 p.m. the week of judging.
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 starfi sh 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!
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.
Thank you St. Jude for an-swering my prayer. SR. (52)
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
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
By Renee A. Thomaier
Retired 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
Let’s Talk About Stink Bugs
arrive in numbers.
The stink bug is an invasive species, arriving in the mid-1990s from eastern Asia. They were fi rst 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.
Lakehurst Fire Gi Wrapping Services
LAKEHURST – Lakehurst Fire Department’s Gift Wrapping Services will be provided on December 14 and 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lakehurst Community Center, 207 Center Street, Lakehurst. Gift wrap and gift bags will be provided. Stand gift wrapping pricing:
Small – $5
Medium – $7
Large – $9
Oversized – $11
Bulk Gift Wrapping up to 20 gifts – $100
All proceeds go directly to the Lakehurst Volunteer Fire Department.
Crestwood Village 1 Holiday Dinner
WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 Holiday Dinner will be on December 14 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person. On sale Tuesday’s 9 to 11 a.m. at Clubhouse, cutoff date is December 3. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Buffet catered by Kate and Ally. Menu includes filet tips, chicken francaise, cavatelli and broccoli, lasagna rollups, tossed salad, dinner rolls, coffee, tea and dessert.
EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!
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.
Crestwood Village 1 Resident Club Toy Drive
WHITING – Continuing through December 9, they invite residents to bring a new, unwrapped toys suitable for boys and girls of all ages, from toddlers to teens, to the Clubhouse Lobby be-
tween 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Collected toys will be safely secured at the end of each day. They are confident that the generosity of our community will make this event a tremendous success!
AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE
Water Company Recognizes Local Charities
CAMDEN – New Jersey American Water and the American Water Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., announced today that the Foundation has awarded a combined total of $25,000 in State Strategic Impact grants to five non-profit organizations that are battling food insecurity throughout New Jersey.
Torrina Bennett-Michael, Director of External Affairs at the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, expressed profound gratitude for the support from the American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water. As one of the five recipients, she stated, “This donation, coupled with the year-round support from New Jersey American Water for our events, enables us to enhance our efforts in providing essential assistance to nearly 675,000 individuals in our 15-county service area who are facing hunger.”
“At New Jersey American Water, our commitment goes beyond providing quality service,” said Mark McDonough, President of New Jersey American Water and Board Member of the American Water Charitable Foundation. “Food security and water security go hand in hand. We are proud to provide clean safe reliable water to our customers’ taps and we are happy to support
our community food banks in their mission to provide healthy nutritious food to residents in our service areas throughout the state.”
Five organizations across New Jersey American Water’s footprint received donations totaling $25,000:
• Community FoodBank of New Jersey
• The Food Bank of South Jersey
• FulFill NJ: Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties
• Mercer Street Friends Food Bank
• Norwescap
Carrie Williams, President of the American Water Charitable Foundation, stated, “We are thrilled to collaborate with New Jersey American Water to support local food banks across the state. This year’s initiative underscores our commitment to community welfare by directing essential funds to the areas in greatest need.”
Funding provided by the American Water Charitable Foundation was provided through the 2024 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program’s State Strategic Impact grant. State Strategic Impact grants support high-impact projects and throughout American Water’s national footprint. For more information about food insecurity and to locate a food bank near you, visit feedingamerica.org.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 “__ your age!” 4 Hound 7 Mischievous sprite 10 For instance 13 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 33 Flying start? 34 Sudden attack 35 Bentley of “Yellowstone” 38 Inventor who coined the term
“horsepower” 39 Exxon merger part-
Musical symbol
Nordic runner
Breezes (through)
Let up
Bo’s’n’s quarters
Storage place 47 With 60-Across, undefeated boxer who wrote the cookbook “Food for Life” 49 Prefix between kiloand giga52 Passage 55 Do better than 60 See 47-Across 61 Mauna __ 62 Brandy-based cocktail, and a hint to locating the second part of four three-part puzzle answers
Mauna __ 64 Break off
67 Leaves in hot water? 68 “The Matrix” hero 69 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
Snag
-
Dwarf planet once known as Xena
-
Tin __
Canadian gas brand
Dandelion part 39 Italian cream cheese
40 Where stars may align 42 Miss in the game of Clue 45 Flamenco cheer 46 Brief exercise? 47 Hardly seaworthy 48 Turnpike toll factor 50 German industrial city
Trickery
54 “All done!” 5657 Low-pH substance 58 RSVP convenience 59 Mex. miss
Proverbs 27 Tropical hardwood
(c)2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.
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 JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
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.
THE HARD-SHELL TACO HAS BEEN AN AMERICAN STAPLE FOR MORE THAN HALF A CENTURY
By America’s Test Kitchen
CRISPY TACOS (TACOS DORADOS)
(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2024 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
