By Chris Lundy ISLAND HEIGHTS - It takes strength to be a police officer. It takes strength to put your life on the line as a first responder. It takes strength to ask for help. The 5th Annual Survivor Day 5K Run/Walk was held in Island Heights as a fundraiser to promote mental health awareness. The walk is held on the third Saturday in November, recognized
as International Survivors Of Suicide Loss Day.
This year’s race was dedicated to Berkeley Police Lt. Anthony “Butchie” Kurnel III. He was born and raised in Bayville. He was married with three children and a grandchild.
“He was the cornerstone to his family and held such a bright presence in the community,” organizers said. “He was 55 years old when he lost
his life to the silent killer of mental health and suicide. His legacy will live on as we remember the countless lives he has touched, all the laughs we’ve had and all of the people he’s lent his hand out to help. We remember Butchie, not only for the challenges he faced, but for the joy he brought to everyone, his dedication to his family, and the care that
(5k Walk - See Page 4)
Allen Road Boardwalk To Be Repaired
By Chris Lundy
BERKELEY – A passive recreation area that’s off the beaten path will be renewed in the coming future. At a recent meeting, the Township Council announced it is using $448,125 in grant funding to repair the Allen Road boardwalk. The township agreed to a memorandum of understanding with the State Department of Community Affairs’ Boardwalk Preservation Fund Grant Program.
“The money will help get it back to where it was,” Mayor John Bacchione said.
First Responders And Vets
The Township Council appointed Class II Special Law Enforcement Officers and authorized their attendance at the Ocean County Police Academy. Business Administrator Scott Tirella said the two officers were Class 1 and this is the next step in their training.
Toms River Filmmaker Provides Sequel To Holiday Favorite
By Bob Vosseller
JERSEY SHORE – Have you ever wondered what happened next for Ebenezer Scrooge after his epiphany about the spirit of Christmas and what matters most in life?
A New Jersey filmmaker is exploring that premise with “Ebenezer The Traveler” a film that premiered on Apple+TV on December 6. It will also be available on Amazon Prime and over a dozen streaming services.
Gravitas Ventures, an Anthem Sports & Entertainment Company has acquired U.S. and Canadian rights to Joe
Valenti’s holiday drama which he described as a charming family holiday film written by Leland R. Prater that stars Jerry Parisi, Amanda Rae Dodson, Leland R. Prater, Michael Bertolini, Austen Shane, Emily Jeanne Phillips, Christopher Brian Roach and Lou Martini Jr.
The movie was directed, filmed, edited and produced by Valenti, a Toms River resident who heads Valenti Vision Films.
Following the merriest Christmas day of Ebenezer
(Allen Road - See Page 4) (Sequel - See Page 5)
Participants at the 5th Annual Survivor Day 5K Run/Walk was held in Island Heights.
Photo by Chris Lundy
There’s a passive boardwalk at the end of Allen Road that officials want to repair.
Photo by Chris Lundy
A scene from “Ebenezer The Traveler” made by local filmmaker Joe Valenti.
Photo courtesy Valenti Vision Films
5k Walk:
Continued From Page 1
he brought to every aspect of life.”
On a brisk morning, a large group gathered to remember his legacy, and to bring attention to the need for people to address their mental health as they would any other health issue. The crowd symbolized that you are not alone. The run/walk provides momentum to the lives of those left behind, allowing them to move forward while remembering those they lost.
Allen Road:
Continued From Page 1
The council also crafted a Memorandum of Understanding with Ocean County to use the firearms training facility in Little Egg Harbor. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Law Enforcement Training Center is on Route 539. It was formerly Shooters Sporting Center, but the county purchased the 26-acre site for $10.5 million last year. Local departments would pay a fee to the county to use the range, but officials at the time of the purchase said that it will cost
“Sometimes, the people you wouldn’t think need help are the ones who do,” Berkeley Police Chief Kevin Santucci said. “It’s important to recognize it and that we talk about it and not leave it in the dark. We should make people comfortable to talk about it and help them find the resources they need.”
Joe Chester, who spoke at the event about his uncle, said “Butchie was my hero. The reason I’m a police officer today is because of him.”
Kirsten Schenk first organized this event in honor of her nephew and godson, Christian
less than other locations, and that officers won’t have to travel long distances to qualify on their testing, which is done twice a year.
Meanwhile, Dakota Pisano and Jonathan Rainforth were appointed to the Pinewald Fire Company.
Councilman James Byrnes said that he would like to see a veterans committee full of volunteers who will suggest things to the council that could help the large vet population. He would like to have one person from each community on this team.
Tunnel To Towers is building a veterans vil-
Schenk, who passed away on April 12, 2020. He would have turned 33 this year. The Toms River High School South graduate had just become a Sheriff’s Officer. Christian left behind a wife and three young children.
Organizer Kevin Schmiegle said that suicide impacts police, firefighters and first aid members because they are under a lot of pressure and everyone depends on them. There are also people from the military who came home from combat and now are fighting battles nobody can see. They’re not looking for sympathy or pity but for understanding.
lage on Route 9. There will be 99 apartments and 25 single-family homes all dedicated to veterans. There will also be workers on site to help them receive services.
The 125 veterans are going to need more help, Byrnes said. They have a lot of supports already but he wants there to be more.
During almost every Township Council meeting, they cancel taxes for a handful of 100% disabled veterans, as per state law.
Byrnes, a Vietnam veteran, said that in November this cost the township about $40,000, and in October it cost roughly $50-60,000. He
Beam Aboard For Holiday Fun
SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Santa Claus beamed down to the Seaside Heights Community Center, 1000 Bay Boulevard, for the December meeting of the STARFLEET – USS Challeng-
er, a Star Trek Science Fiction Fan Club that meets monthly.
Visit usschallenger.org or email BillSchmidt1000@aol.com or call at 732-575-
6904 for more information.
Come join for next Christmas Party. The December monthly meetings for this event will be December 21, Winter Solstice at 1 p.m.
“Everyone knows someone who this impacts,” he said. “Suicide is endemic in this country.”
At the front of the walk were members of NJ Cop To Cop, which provides 24/7 peer support to law enforcement and their families. Their goal is to help a fellow officer who is going through a tough time by letting them talk to another cop who understands what they may be feeling. They have ways to get a hold of them on their website at njcop2cop. com / which includes phone, email, chat and webinars.
was speaking on behalf of a movement to get the state to reimburse towns for this.
Berkeley public officials have frequently spoken in favor of the state law that allows disabled veterans to be exempt from property taxes, however, they have also spoken frequently in favor of a measure that would soften the blow for towns, particularly ones with a large portion of seniors – and therefore veterans – like Berkeley. Former Mayor Carmen Amato, who is now a state senator, has been promoting this legislation that would reimburse the towns.
Please bring pot luck dish and drinks optional. The regular Monthly meetings are the first Sunday of the month.at 1 p.m. Come get a picture with Santa.
Sequel:
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Scrooge’s long and miserable life, the day after finds him much less merry, and instead much more dead. Reunited with his old partner Jacob Marley, a no longer quite so Tiny Tim, and his beloved sister Fan, together they are tasked with earning their own redemptions, and regaining Scrooge’s second chance, by crossing over time and the mortal plane to help guide others who are in danger of losing their way. Their first journey leads them to modern day Oklahoma, and into the life of a young singer doing her best to support what family she has left. Angel Lynn dreams of something better, but sometimes dreams can turn into nightmares. Bound under the thumb of a ruthless manager she finds herself forced into a situation where one wrong decision could ruin everything and cost them all dearly. Ebenezer, Fan, Jacob, and Tiny Tim must work as if their souls depend upon it to save her before time runs out because they do.
Valenti noted, “what I love about this story is that it is not another reboot or remake of ‘A Christmas Carol.’ It is a continuation of the Dickens classic which will explore what happens next for Ebenezer Scrooge. We have an opportunity to learn so much more about these classic characters.”
“Ebenezer the Traveler” has screened in many festivals across the country in
recent months and has picked up numerous awards including Best Family Feature, Best Actor and Best Costume Awards.
Valenti said Jerry Parisi, who plays Scrooge in the films “came up with the concept (for the sequel). He had been playing Scrooge at various festivals, fairs and private parties for 15 years. He came up with the idea and met with our writer and they are the ones who started the process seven or eight years ago. They did a concept video before I was even involved.”
“I don’t know if the rights have already fallen into public domain. There have been tons of remakes and retellings of the same story over and over again. That is what appealed to me. We are not doing a remake or retelling; we are continuing where they left off,” he added.
He noted, “there are so many characters that are brushed over in the book that you don’t know much of their back story. Scrooge is the only one people really know and the three ghosts in the book.”
The original story doesn’t touch on what happened with the other relatives so the film can delve further into that, he said.
“We started filming in January and ended a week before the SAG strike started, which was at the end of April or May,” he explained. They filmed over the course of four months, working around everyone’s schedule and shooting Friday, Saturday, Sunday or on a holiday weekend. “We filmed in Toms River, we used the Grunin
Theater at Ocean County College, where the concert is set toward the end, and downtown Toms River for some of the outside shots.”
Other locations included Hopewell, a historic area of Staten Island and Long Island. “We also went to Oklahoma and filmed a bunch of scenes there. We shot some of the drone shots there. We shot on the same street as “Killers of the Flower Moon.” They built all those sets and that is what we used for some of the outdoor Oklahoma stuff,” Valenti added.
Valenti was born in Brick Township. “I was there until I was 25 and moved to Old Bridge for 15 or 16 years and for the past seven years, I’ve lived in Toms River so a life-long Jersey resident. My company does film and TV production but we do commercials and sports productions “corporate stuff in the city. It is all TV and production related and those jobs pay the bills. I’ve had movies in the past that have been on Netflix and late-night films on ABC.”
“When this project came up I said, ‘this is great.’ I loved the concept, the story, they had a lot of the costumes already so it all fell together. For this film we had a large cast and many locations which goes against the grain of a smaller budget film,” Valenti added.
Valenti is looking forward to the holiday season even more now and said “we are already talking to investors about doing
Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 18
a sequel.”
The motion picture was produced on a modest, independent budget of roughly $80,000. The film’s theme song, “How I Missed You Christmas” was written by Valenti and performed by Emily Jeanne Phillips. It is available on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music and dozens of other music streaming platforms. The full motion picture soundtrack was released on the same platforms.
Other producers include Jerry Parisi, Joann Sciascia-Parisi, Leland R Prater, Todd Slater, Amanda Rae Dodson and executive produced by Jerry Parisi, Joann Sciascia Parisi, Joe Valenti, Leland R. Prater. Gravitas Ventures Acquisitions Manager Mackenzie Maguire negotiated the deal with Producer Todd Slater of Convoke Media on behalf of the filmmakers.
“Gravitas is excited to be bringing Ebenezer the Traveler to North American audiences this holiday season. This fun twist and continuation on the Ebenezer Scrooge story is the perfect Christmas watch that the whole family can enjoy,” Gravitas Ventures Manager Mackenzie Maguire said.
Gravitas is a leading all rights distributor of independent feature films and documentaries. Founded in 2006, the firm connects independent filmmakers and producers with distribution opportunities across the globe.
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Legislators Support Naming Veterans Clinic After Local Hero
Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District Capitol Comments
TRENTON - Senator Carmen Amato, Jr,. Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre announced their support for H.R. 9997, sponsored by Congressman Chris Smith, which would name a new Veterans’ Affairs outpatient clinic in Toms Riv-
er after Second Lieutenant Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, Jr. The Delegation sent a letter of support to Denis Richard McDonough, Secretary of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
“The new clinic is centrally located in Ocean County, New Jersey, which is home to the highest number of veterans in the state,” wrote the Delegation. “Congressman Smith’s legislation details the incredible achievements of Second Lieutenant Leonard G. ‘Bud’ Lomell, Jr., who was a long-time res-
ident of Toms River, served valiantly during World War II, and was a model citizen.” Dear Secretary McDonough, This is a in LETTER OF SUPPORT of naming the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, as the Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, Jr. VA Clinic. Correspondingly, our State Legislative Delegation fully supports the efforts by Congressman Chris Smith, with whom we have the privilege of sharing a constituency, who has introduced legislation (H.R.9997) which would name the facility after Mr. Lomell, Jr. The new clinic is centrally located in Ocean
County, New Jersey, which is home to the highest number of veterans in the state. Congressman Smith’s legislation details the incredible achievements of Second Lieutenant Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, Jr., who was a long-time resident of Toms River, served valiantly during World War II, and was a model citizen. It is, therefore, fitting and appropriate that the clinic be named in honor of this local hero.
Thank you, in advance, for your attention to this LETTER OF SUPPORT for naming the Toms River, NJ VA Clinic after Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, Jr.
Bill Would Improve Services For Individuals With Developmental Disabilities
Senator Cory Booker Capitol Comments
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced legislation to expand and improve access to critical support services for individuals with Autism and other developmental disabilities. The EASE with 211 Act (Enhancing Access to Support and Emergency Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities through 211) would establish a grant program through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to help states expand the capacity of 211 services to better support individuals with developmental disabilities.
The 211 system is a nationwide network of community service programs providing free and confidential information and referrals to callers on where to obtain assistance from local and national social service programs, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The 211 network can be an incredibly valuable tool to aid vulnerable populations in accessing essential services for their health and survival.
The majority of the requests that 211 service lines receive are for essential needs like resources to reduce housing and food insecurity and ways to access basic utilities. For individuals with developmental disabilities, the 211 system can serve as an essential bridge to accessing specialized care, resources, and community support. By leveraging 211’s existing infrastructure, the EASE with 211 Act will ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities can more easily find the help they need.
“Navigating the complex world of health care, social services, and education should not be a challenge, especially for those who are already facing the obstacles that come with having a developmental disability,” said Senator Booker. “Improving and increasing the capacity of 211 services to serve individuals with developmental disabilities will help reduce the burden that so many individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and caregivers face when trying to find the resources that they need.”
“United Way brings communities together to find strength and share hope,” said Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. “The 211 network,
supported by United Way Worldwide, is a lifeline for people and communities in need. The 211 system provides hope and support at moments when people feel most alone and unable to meet their basic needs.
We are proud to support the EASE with 211 Act, which would establish a grant program to facilitate nationwide accessibility and coordination of 211 services for individuals with developmental disabilities so that they can access critical resources.”
“The Autism Society of America proudly supports the ‘Enhancing Access to Support and Emergency Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities through 211’ or the ‘EASE with 211 Act.’ This vital legislation will provide grants to states to enhance their 211 information systems, enabling better support for individuals with Autism and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families. Families often share how challenging it is to navigate the complex web of services and resources. By improving training, outreach, and system navigation, this bill will significantly reduce those challenges, providing much-needed relief. Additionally, the inclusion of data collection measures will offer valuable insights to inform future policies that better support family caregivers,” said Kim Musheno, Vice President of Public Policy at the Autism Society of America.
Ocean County Special Needs Registry
“We are excited to see the introduction of the EASE Act and the inclusion of the navigator services pilot. This is a great first step in ensuring our community can access the services they are entitled to,” said John Poulos, Autistic Self Advocacy Network. Title is Policy Analyst.
Specifically, the EASE with 211 Act will establish a grant program through the Department of Health and Human Services to assist eligible entities in expanding capacity of 211 services to support individuals with Autism and other developmental disabilities. Grants can be used for the following:
• Improving the 211 databases for developmental disability resources
• Hiring and training specialists to assist individuals
• Upgrading technology and conducting outreach to increase awareness of available resources
• Award grants to entities to provide peer or family navigators to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families access relevant services and resources.
The Ease with 211 Act is endorsed by the following organizations: Autism Speaks, Autism Society, Autism NJ, The Arc of NJ, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, NJ211, United Way Worldwide
OCEAN COUNTY - The Ocean County Special Needs Registry is a collaborative effort between the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Sheriff’s
Office and the Ocean County Police Chiefs Association, available to all citizens with special needs who reside, attend school or are employed in Ocean County.
The goal of the Special Needs Registry is to ensure all Ocean County residents who may be in need of special assistance are able to get the help and support they need in a time
of emergency or during interaction with Law Enforcement, Fire or EMS personnel. For more information or to register please visit: www.OCSNRNJ.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.
KIDS COLORING RAFFLE
Please mail all artwork to: Micromedia Publications – Coloring Contest, P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. We wish everyone good luck in the contest and happy coloring!
Volunteers Recognized By Mayor
Photo courtesy Berkeley Township
BERKELEY – Mayor Bacchione visited Faith Community, a United Methodist Church, to present certificates of recognition to volunteers at their food pantry. Thank you to these young men and women for their service to our community!
Your Weekly Environmental Tip: Are
Biodegradable Trash Bags The Answer?
By Chris Lundy
We produce hundreds of pounds of garbage a year. So, why not make a tiny dent in that by using biodegradable trash bags? Fair question, until science happens. You see, for something to biodegrade, it needs three things: heat, moisture and oxygen. If your garbage bag is in the town dump, covered with other bags, it’s never getting the three things it needs to actually break down. You have wasted money on something that makes you feel like you’re helping the Earth. There is such a thing as compostable bags. These you have to use in your compost pile, where they will be exposed to heat, light, and air if you do it right. You’re supposed to turn the compost pile certain times in order to make everything break down.
These compostable bags, however, also won’t biodegrade in the town dump. So, obviously, the only things you can put in compostable bags are other things that can be composted. And the only place you can put all this is your compost pile.
When an item is referred to as “compostable,” it leads you to think that it will degrade into natural elements in your back yard. The truth is that “compostable” usually means that it can be composted in actual factories where the items are provided with just the right conditions to
have it decompose in months, or even years. Some big cities have contracts with companies to take this stuff, but none of those cities are around here. If you put it in your compost pile, you’ll be turning it around for decades.
Other bags are labeled as “degradable.” If a degradable plastic bag breaks down, you have to ask “what does it break down into?” For a lot of them, it’s microplastics. These will wind up back in the environment. A biodegradable bag, on the other hand, breaks down into organic matter. Instead of plastics, they use plant starch. This means they are more expensive and not as strong as plastic.
Some studies have shown that the process used to make these plastic substitute bags are just as bad as plastic. They are usually made from corn products. The corn must be grown –and not for human consumption. This includes the use of water, pesticides, and fertilizer. And then the material has to be harvested, shipped, and then a bunch of chemicals, electricity, and more water is used to turn it into something that is somewhat close to plastic. Is it worth it? So, while you have good intentions of living a greener life with biodegradable or compostable bags, the fact is that the science just hasn’t caught up with it to make these products actually help the environment except under very specific conditions. The Berkeley Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!
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Boys Soccer Team Finishes Season 12-8
BERKELEY – The Central Regional Boys Soccer team finished the season 12-8 and tied for second in the stacked A South. The team was ranked as high as # 8 and will end the year as the #11 ranked team in the Shore Conference.
During the year the team won their Shore Conference POD outright which gave them a 1st round bye in the Shore Conference
Photo courtesy Central Regional Tournament. They would go on and defeat Southern Regional (Overall Group 4 State Champions) to advance to the quarterfinals. The team reached the NJSIAA South Jersey semi- finals by knocking off the #1 seed and defending sectional champions Washington Township, before losing to eventual champions Southern Regional in the semi-finals.
South Toms River EMS Blood Drive
SOUTH TOMS RIVER – After hosting their first incredible blood drive over the summer and it being a huge success, South Toms River EMS have teamed up with the New Jersey Blood Services/ New York Blood Bank to host a winter blood drive!
The blood drive will be on January 3 from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Recreation Center, 1 Drake Lane.
The donation of blood is one of the most important lifesaving donations that can be
made. Most recently there was an incident near us that required a patient to receive blood in the field. The kind donors who sacrificed a small part of their day helped save someone’s life.
Fun fact: a single person’s blood donation will help up to three people! There are currently 42 available appointments. The last drive we filled just over 25. Let’s fill over 35 this time!
To sign up, visit strfas.org/blood and you will be redirected to the registration page.
Holiday Beach Badge Sale
BERKELEY – The last day of the Berkeley Township Holiday Beach Badge Sale will be December 16 at the Recreation Department, 630 Atlantic City Boulevard, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
CRMS Student Teaches ASL Lesson
BERKELEY – A Central Regional Middle School student spoke to Mrs. Lozada’s ASL classes about his journey as a deaf child. The student was born deaf and has been using hearing devices. He recently got his latest set of cochlear implants and explained
courtesy Central Regional all about them and how they help him. He was a natural in front of the students! He walked around and showed them his implant. The students prepared questions to ask him and he graciously answered all of them. The more we know, the more inclusive the world can become!
Students Raise Money For Families In Need
HOLIDAY SHOPPING SPREE 2024
December 18, 19, 20 & 21
9AM-2PM • Plaza 1 Mini Mall 730 Jamaica Blvd. • Toms River 08757
Purchase holiday gifts for everyone on your shopping list!
Photo
BERKELEY – Ms. Melanson and the HMP Student Council hosted a bake sale during conferences to help raise money for families in need for the holidays. All money raised will be used to purchase gift cards for the H&M Potter Giving Tree.
Photo courtesy Berkeley Schools
Field Hockey Finishes With 13-7-1 Record
BERKELEY – The Central Regional Field Hockey Team finished the season in 3rd place in their division with a 13-7-1 overall record.
The team advanced to the quarterfinals of
By Chris Lundy
BERKELEY – The Bayville Fire Company was thanked for their response to a 2022 fire that damaged the Ocean Gate United Methodist Church.
Pastor Phil Salerno said that due to the brave efforts of the firefighters they were able to rebuild
and celebrate their 100th anniversary recently. Chief Ken Anderson, who’s been with the department 30 years, encouraged people to join. It take a lot of time, people, and equipment to do what needs to be done to protect the residents and they are always grateful for more help.
Photo courtesy Central Regional the Shore Conference Tournament and the South Jersey Group 4 Tournament. The team was 2-0-1 against Lacey this season and also had quality wins against Toms River North and Wall during the regular season.
Photo by Chris Lundy
Pastor Phil Salerno (holding proclamation, on the right) of the Ocean Gate United Methodist Church thanked the Bayville Fire Department and Chief Ken Anderson (on the left) with the governing body at a recent Township Council meeting.
Wrangle Brook Community Garden Unveiled
BERKELEY – Mayor John Bacchione and Councilman Mike Signorile attended the unveiling and sign dedication at Wrangle Brook Community Garden in town.
Wrangle Brook Community Garden is a nonprofit 501(c)3 association located in Berkeley Township. Volunteers are dedicated to helping members to grow plants in an environmentally sustainable way and to provide fresh produce to needy families through local food pantries in surrounding communities of Ocean County. They operate on 4.5 acres leased from Berkeley Township for a nominal fee, at this time only about 1/2 an acre is utilized for the garden. Nearly half of the garden is dedicated to cultivating vegetables and fruit which are donated to local food pantries. They have a
large area dedicated to growing herbs and flowers to encourage butterflies and other pollinators. They also maintain four hives intended for the production of honey. The Garden also contains 50, 4x8 foot raised beds that members can rent annually for personal use.
The Community Garden is located at 2 Southampton Road in the Silver Ridge East Park section of town.
They are always looking for new members and volunteers. For more information, visit them online at wranglebrookcommunitygarden.org.
Congratulations and thank you for all that you do for our community and the local food pantries in Ocean County and surrounding towns.
Wreath Laying For Veterans
The Bayville Elks is working with the Bayville Cemetery/Friends of the Bayville Cemetery to coordinate the ceremony for National Wreaths Across America. The truck will arrive on December 13 escorted by Berkeley Police Department to deliver the more than 145 wreaths that will be laid on
each veteran’s grave site at the Bayville Cemetery. The wreaths will be kept at the Bayville Elks until the next day in which the wreaths will be laid by a volunteer. This ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on December 14.
They welcome members of the community to attend the event.
Photo courtesy Berkeley Township
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Tallwoods Care Center Unveils New Therapy Gym With RibbonCutting Ceremony
BERKELEY – Tallwoods Care Center celebrated the grand opening of its magnificent state-of-the-art therapy gym with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 8.
The event marked a significant expansion in Tallwoods Care Center’s commitment to high-quality care for its patients and drew an impressive roster of local leaders and healthcare professionals.
In attendance were Berkeley Township Mayor John A. Bacchione, Senator Carmen Amato Jr., members of the Berkeley Police Department, the center’s medical director Dr. Cauvin, Dr. Gobran, and representatives from the MMCSC Foundation, CMC Foundation, and CMC Case Management. The ceremony
courtesy Tallwoods Care Center celebrated Tallwoods dedication to providing advanced therapy services in a space that embodies its core values of excellence and compassion.
“This new gym allows us to expand our services and continue delivering high-quality care for our patients,” said the administrator of Tallwoods Care Center. “We are grateful for the support from our local officials, community partners, and staff who helped bring this vision to life.” Berkeley Township
The new therapy gym underscores Tallwoods Care Center’s commitment to creating environments that support recovery and wellness, ensuring patients have access to the latest resources to aid in their rehabilitation.
Photo
C ommunity n ew S
JROTC Program Founder To Retire
BERKELEY – Master Sgt. Sherlock Grant, fondly known as “MSG,” and who co-founded the JROTC program at Central Regional in 2012, will retire effective January 1.
“CRSD means everything,” he said. “It’s been a joy working here.”
The sergeant served in the Army from 1977 to 2001 working in personnel and military intelligence. He began his career in Fort Bragg (now known as Fort Liberty) and served in Virginia, Maryland, Germany, England, Korea, and Pittsburgh. “I loved them all,” Grant said of his assignments.
“I never had a bad assignment. I did enjoy Europe and got to travel.”
Then when he retired from the military, he became a military science teacher at Malcolm X. Shabazz High School in Newark where he was named Teacher of the Year during the 2011-12 school year. He later learned that the Central Regional School District was looking to start a military science program, and he interviewed for the job and was hired along with Lt. Colonel Michael Tier to start the new program. “I thought I could make a difference,” he said.
Grant started teaching in middle school but has taught mostly high school for the past five years. “90% of our kids go on to college,” he said, adding that about 8 to 10 % enroll in the military. “They come through the program, and they get scholarships to college. Some kids go to West Point or West Virginia and take the Senior ROTC program.”
The JROTC program includes drills and marching, and the students participate in many competitions, Grant said. The male and female students also do physical fitness, community service and financial literacy. They wear uniforms every Wednesday.
The JROTC program is funded jointly by the school district and the U.S. government.
“I immensely enjoy teaching the students, expanding their young minds and watching them grow to super adults,” Grant said.
“I watch them, and they think they know everything and then they come back and say, ‘wow, I did not know anything at all.’”
He particularly likes it when the students graduate and succeed, and then come back to visit and talk to current students. Grant received the “Golden Apple” Award Teacher of the Year at CRHS during the 2017-18 school year and was recognized with the JROTC Camp Adventure Distinguished Educator of the Year Award in 2019. He also established and maintained an award-winning VEX Robotics program from 2022-the present.
As for his retirement, Grant says he has “mixed feelings.”
“I relish my students and think I made a difference in their lives,” he said. “After 23 years of teaching military science, I feel like I have 1,000 grandkids - none of them are mine, but some come back, and it made me feel like I actually did something.”
For the past 12 to 13 years, the sergeant has commuted from his home in East Orange to work at Central Regional in Bayville. After his retirement, Grant hopes to travel with his wife Denise and spend more time with his grandchildren. He has three daughters, a stepson who is in the military, and three grandchildren.
Grant, who received numerous awards from the Army, has a Master of Arts in Human Resources from Trinity Southern University and a Bachelor of Science in Work Force Education from Southern Illinois University.
South Toms River EMS Blood Drive
SOUTH TOMS RIVER – After hosting their first incredible blood drive over the summer and it being a huge success, South Toms River EMS have teamed up with the New Jersey Blood Services/ New York Blood Bank to host a winter blood drive!
The blood drive will be on January 3 from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Recreation Center, 1 Drake Lane.
The donation of blood is one of the most important lifesaving donations that can be
made. Most recently there was an incident near us that required a patient to receive blood in the field. The kind donors who sacrificed a small part of their day helped save someone’s life.
Fun fact: a single person’s blood donation will help up to three people!
There are currently 42 available appointments. The last drive we filled just over 25. Let’s fill over 35 this time!
To sign up, visit strfas.org/blood and you will be redirected to the registration page.
Police Seek New CERT Members
OCEAN GATE – The Ocean Gate Police Department is looking for members to join the Ocean County CERT.
A free course designed to give every individual training in disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact the area, as well as train them in basic disaster response skills,
such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
If interested, sign up at: oceangatepolicedepartment.org/cert-training. Contact Detective Shan with any questions sshan@ oceangatepd.org.
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
Your Last Will And Testament And The Role Of Your Executor
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
The Executor is the person named in the Will to administer the estate. Upon the death of the person who made the Will (the Decedent), the Executor has to go to the Surrogate in the county in which the Decedent resided at the time of the death and file the Will for probate. Probate is the process by which the Surrogate admits the Will and qualifies the person named to be the Executor. Once this is done, the Surrogate will issue Letters Testamentary to the Executor. These Letters allow the Executor to stand in the place of the Decedent to perform all the tasks that the Decedent could perform.
It is the job of the Executor to determine the assets of the Decedent, collect them into one place, usually an estate checking account, and determine the gross value of the estate. Next, the Executor is obligated by statute to pay the outstanding debts of the Decedent including funeral debts, last medical expenses and administration expenses, including any death taxes that may be owed as a result of the estate. Finally, the Executor is responsible for distributing the assets as directed in the Will. Obviously this is an oversimplification of the Executor’s tasks. In some cases the collection of the assets can be complicated when there may be real property to be sold or when there are assets that cannot readily be converted to cash.
In performing its tasks, the Executor must always act in the best interests of the estate and the beneficiaries named in the Will. The
Executor is empowered to act on its own. This means that the Executor does not have to obtain the consent of the various beneficiaries. The Executor is entitled by statute to compensation for its performance of the administration of the estate. This compensation, referred to as a commission, is based upon the value of the estate and upon the income the estate generates. The commission is 5% of the estate up to $200,000.00 and 3.5% of the estate between $200,000.00 and $1 million. The Executor is also entitled to a commission of 6% of the income generated by the estate. The Executor is not obligated to take the commission, but if it does, the commission is taxed to the Executor as income in the year in which it is received. Thus, the Executor must pay income tax on the commission received.
In choosing an Executor in your Will, you should choose someone who is trustworthy and can make financial decisions. In some cases, it may be advantageous to use a bank or trust company as the Executor, rather than a family member, because they are more experienced and perform these tasks as a business. In many cases they will charge the same fees as are allowed by statute.
The Executors responsibilities are complete when the assets are all fully distributed pursuant to the terms of the Will.
Please contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for all your estate planning needs. (732) 505-1212.
Around the JerSey Shore
$40,000 Awarded To Support Accessible Drinking Water
CAMDEN – 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., and New Jersey American Water, announced today that it has awarded 16 grants totaling $40,000 to nonprofits, school districts, and community organizations to fund public bottle filling stations in priority areas of need through its Bottle Filling Station Grant Program. These organizations will receive funding, on behalf of the Foundation, for new filling stations that will enhance sustainable hydration options in their communities and reduce single-use plastic waste.
The range of projects represent various areas with cultural diversity, opportunities for outside recreation, and space for inclusivity, all united by a common commitment to benefit residents by prioritizing environmental stewardship and community-based support.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water,” said Sean Sutton, director of Facilities and Grounds for the Plainfield Public Schools. “The installation of a bottle filling station at the Maxson Middle School will not only promote hydration and sustainability but also enhance equity by providing our students, faculty and community with better access to resources. This partnership is a meaningful step towards creating a healthier and more supportive environment for our students and families.”
“We are deeply grateful New Jersey American Water recommended us for this grant,” Heather Triarsi, associate executive director for Community Engagement of Interfaith Neighbors. “The bottle filling station will be an invaluable resource for the west side of Asbury Park, providing residents, park visitors and passersby with access to a fresh, sustainable water source. This initiative will support ongoing community development efforts and foster environmental stewardship in one of the city’s most vibrant and diverse areas.”
“We are honored to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation,” said Kathy Miers, chairperson of the Belvidere Rotary Club and Mayor. “The bottle filling station at Riverside Park will be a fantastic addition for residents and visitors alike, supporting hydration, sustainability and community health. As a bike-friendly town and a hub for outdoor activities, this resource will enhance the experience of everyone who enjoys our beautiful Riverside Park – from cyclists and pedestrians to families and even their pets. We’re excited to see this benefit our diverse and vibrant community.”
“Audubon Civic REACH is grateful to be selected for funding from the American Water Charitable Foundation to install a bottle filling station at the Audubon Family Park,” stated Danielle Ingves, director of Audubon Civic REACH. “This station will enhance the ex-
perience for all who use this central gathering place, from residents to visitors attending events like National Night Out and Audubon Day or enjoying the nearby county park. The addition of accessible, sustainable drinking water supports our ongoing efforts to create a safe, welcoming space for everyone in our community.”
“Our bottle filling station grant program will help community partners make a positive impact on the environment and help ensure easy access to clean drinking water,” said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water and American Water Charitable Foundation Board Member. “Accessible, safe hydration is essential to creating lifelong healthy and environmentally responsible habits.”
“A staggering 60 million plastic bottles are thrown away every day in the U.S.,” said Carrie Williams, American Water Charitable Foundation. “We’re aiming to change this in our communities by providing accessible hydration stations, eliminating the need to buy dozens of water bottles and jugs every week. We hope that these eco-friendly hydration stations will benefit all community members and encourage them to take advantage of these outdoor spaces and community activities!”
The organizations selected to receive this grant are located across 10 counties throughout New Jersey American Water’s service territory, as follows:
• Audubon Civic REACH
• Burlington County Saint Patrick’s Parade Committee
• Chatham Senior Center
• Delanco Youth Sports Association
• Egg Harbor Township Police Activities League
• Friends of Piscataway Public Library
• Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey, Inc.
• Interfaith Neighbors, Inc.
• Orca Youth Sports
• Plainfield Board of Education/Plainfield
Public School District
• Plainsboro Free Public Library Foundation
• Rotary Club of Belvidere
• Roxbury Athletic Foundation
• Strathmere Improvement Association
• United Way of Greater Union County
• YM YWHA of Union County
Each organization will receive funding to purchase a water bottle filling station at a community location, enhancing access to safe, clean, sustainable drinking water for all. The awarded filling stations are expected to be installed in the coming months to benefit residents, visitors, and the environment alike.
Funding for the Water Bottle Filling Station Grant Program is provided by the Foundation as part of its State Strategic Grant Program, focusing on impactful, community-based projects that support water, people, and communities. For more details, visit newjerseyamwater. com/community.
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!
Do you feel like you always hear an unwanted, stress-inducing background noise, such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing? It could be tinnitus — and spring cleaning is a great time to put your tinnitus stress out on the curb.
shown to provide some relief, and they often include tinnitus-management functionality.
• Masking: You listen to sounds that give your brain something to focus on other than your tinnitus.
• Habituation: You listen to a customized sound that leaves some tinnitus audible, which desensitizes you to your tinnitus and alleviates the associated stress.
• Coaching: We teach you skills that minimize your body’s involuntary reaction to your tinnitus.
nursing and rehabilitation center
1579 Old Freehold Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08753 732-505-4477 • www.rosegardennj.com
Tinnitus isn’t a disease, but it may signal a health concern, such as earwax buildup or too much exposure to loud noise. Often, it goes hand in hand with hearing loss, so the best starting place is us! The Tinnitus Consultation First, we’ll provide a hearing evaluation to determine whether hearing loss is a factor in your tinnitus. If there’s an obvious physical cause, such as earwax buildup, addressing it should clear up your tinnitus. Often, though, the cause remains a mystery. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize your stress response. To determine how best to help you, we’ll evaluate your tinnitus. You’ll answer questions about your perception of the sound, and we’ll run tests to learn about its pitch and volume.
Treatment Options
Once we understand your needs, we can recommend a personalized treatment plan. It could include one of the following:
• Hearing aids: Wearing these has been
• Lifestyle changes: For example, the sound gets worse for some people when they drink caffeine or alcohol. Removing these can provide some relief.
Often, the sweet spot is a combination of things from the above list. Everyone’s relationship with their tinnitus is unique, so each treatment plan is, too.
Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always here to listen to your hearing care needs. Take charge of your hearing health — call us and give tinnitus stress the boot!
Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com
WE HEAR YOU & WE ARE HERE For YOU!
His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!
Berkeley Ladies Seniors Upcoming Trips
BERKELEY – Berkeley Ladies Seniors are going to WoodLoch in the Poconos May 19 to 23, 2025, for their Spring Getaway. This is the number one family vacation spot with great food and entertainment. They leave by bus from Pine Beach. All taxes and tips included. All are welcome. A deluxe Lakeview room is $949 per adult. Deposit $100 per person.
On September 21, 2025, they are sailing on Royal Caribbean, The Symphony of the Sea out of Bayonne. This is a seven-night cruise visiting Orlando, Nassau, and Coco cay Bahamas. Outside balcony for two is $2,676. Ocean view for two is $2086. Inside cabin for two is $1,819 for two. Call for a flyer or for more information: Marge 239-272-6857.
Annual Kids New Christmas Pajama & New Book Drive
BAYVILLE – It’s that time of year again!
The annual Christmas PJ Drive for Living Water Community Church is here. This year, they are collecting new pajamas and new books for children in need. Children aged newborn to 16 years are especially in need this year so they are focusing on them. Youth sizes Medium, Large, and XL
are encouraged. They will accept these donations at any time up to December 15. You can leave in collection bin, in the lobby at the church. You can also make a monetary donation; this will help with the purchase of the PJ sizes they still need: livingwatercma. breezechms.com/give/online
Dr. Isidore Kirsh
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Sleep Compression: Maximizing Rest in Less Time
Have you ever experienced waking up after just a couple of hours of sleep, feeling as refreshed as if you’d had a full night’s rest? I have, pretty frequently actually. This phenomenon, often referred to as “sleep compression,” involves achieving deep, restorative sleep in a shorter time frame. Unlike insomnia, where sleep is fragmented and leaves you feeling fatigued, sleep compression results in waking up energized and ready to tackle the day. Sleep compression is when your body gets all the benefits of a full night’s sleep in a shorter amount of time. This can happen because your brain skips quickly to the most important parts of sleep, like deep sleep or dreaming (REM sleep), where your body and mind recover. Sometimes, this happens naturally because of genetics, or it might be influenced by things like medicines or supplements that help deepen your sleep. It can feel like you’ve slept a long time, even if you were only resting for a few hours, because your brain packed all the good stuff into a smaller window. Medications and supplements can influence sleep architecture, but not necessarily in a good way. These drugs may create the illusion of restorative, or deep sleep, but may disrupt it altogether. Prescription sleep drugs like zolpidem (Ambien), temazepam (Restoril), and alprazolam (Xanax) act on GABA receptors, inducing deep sleep quickly but often causing rebound awakenings or lighter sleep later due to their short half-lives or withdrawal effects. These
drugs interfere with REM sleep. Over-the-counter antihistamines with diphenhydramine also promote drowsiness, but can leave you groggy and brain-foggy. These drugs often interfere with REM sleep too. None of the above induce sleep compression, however several natural compounds can. Let’s talk about those now:
Chinese Skullcap: Known for its calming properties, this herb can enhance deep sleep phases, leading to a compressed yet refreshing sleep experience.
Melatonin: This hormone regulates sleep-wake cycles and can promote early deep sleep, sometimes causing premature awakenings with a feeling of restfulness.
Magnesium: Supports deep sleep induction, sometimes creating the sensation of shorter yet restorative rest. It’s important to note that while sleep compression can leave you feeling refreshed, true rest involves a complete progression through all sleep stages, including light sleep, deep sleep, and REM. Shortened sleep cycles might leave your body missing out on essential processes like memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and physical repair.
If you experience this phenomenon regularly or if it disrupts your overall sleep quality, consulting a sleep specialist is advisable.
If you’re interested in a deeper dive and more details about sleep compression, sign up for my free newsletter at my website, suzycohen.com
This Relative Of Spiders Is A Champion Of Survival
Renee A. Thomaier
Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
While often thought of as being insects, the scorpion belongs to the class Arachnida, which makes them relatives of ticks and spiders – not insects. There are approximately 50 species of scorpions in the United States and mostly found in the southwest. They are a predatory species having distinct characteristics and features: eight legs, a pair of pincers, and a venomous stinger at the end of their tail which is used to defend against and capture prey.
Scorpions feed primarily on insects. Not typically aggressive, but when feeling threatened, they will sting causing pain and at times, severe reactions in humans. Keep in mind, with 50+ species of scorpions, not all have potent enough venom to significantly threaten humans.
Scorpions give birth to live babies after a gestational stage as short as two months to 18 months, depending on the species. Once birthing her babies, newborn scorpions will ride on their mother’s back being protected until their first molt, at which time they will disperse.
Fossil evidence indicates that scorpions have remained largely unchanged since the Car-
boniferous period (359 to 299 million years ago). First scorpion ancestors likely lived in water and may even had gills. Some of these creatures made their way to land. They are champions of survival and can live without food for a full year. Scorpions can survive underwater for up to 48 hours. They are no stranger to living in dry, harsh environments, obtaining moisture only from their food. With extremely low metabolic rates, they require only a tenth of oxygen of most insects. They appear to be indestructible.
Still a mystery to scientists, scorpions glow under ultraviolet light. Their cuticle, or skin, absorbs ultraviolet light, reflecting it as visible light. As nocturnal hunters they feed on spiders, insects and other arthropods, with some feeding on grubs and earthworms. The larger scorpions are known to feed on small rodents and even lizards. A mother who is hungry will feed on her own babies in times when food is scarce.
I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768. It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.
Bayville Elks Lodge Seeking Donations
BAYVILLE – Bayville Elks Lodge #2394 are seeking donations to help create tricky tray baskets for the Special Children’s Charity Ball.
Filler for baskets (nothing shredded), ribbon, tape, clear cellophane gift wrap, large baskets. Please bring all donations to the Bayville Elks Lodge.
Real Estate
House For Sale - Adult Community Pheasant Run in Forked River. $289,000. For more information call 609-489-9794. (1)
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
Wheelchair Van, 2007 Honda Odyssey33,500 miles. Well-maintained, Carfax available. 848-240-7218. Great for wheelchair transport, deliveries, or your traveling band. (2)
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)
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 PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (3)
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)
CLASSIFIEDS
Items Wanted
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
WANTED TO BUY - Old Records for LPs & 45s Rock/Jazz/Soul/Blues Call Eddie (732-829-5908) For 45/78 RPM Doo Wop/Soul/R&B/Rockabilly Call Bob 909-938-4623. (1)
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)
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)
Advertise in the main sections of Micromedia’s weekly newspapers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Our skilled team of account executives can work with any budget. Call 732-657-7344 ext. 206 for more information.
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
Affordable Landscaping - Fall & spring clean ups. Shrubs & tree pruning, sod & seed lawns, retaining & stone walls, topsoil & mulch planting, & much more. 640-999-0072. (47)
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)
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)
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 Services Services
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
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. (4)
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)
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)
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)
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:
• Mail this form to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. OR
• Go to jerseyshoreonline.com, click classifieds, fill out the form and pay by credit card. OR
• Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI.
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
2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.
You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads.
order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.
4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:
Print Name:
Billing Address:
Around the JerSey Shore
Water Usage Tips Offered For Holiday
CAMDEN – With the holiday season in full swing, New Jersey American Water reminds customers to practice proper habits for disposing of fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) and conserving water, especially during the ongoing drought conditions in New Jersey. Small changes in your kitchen and around the house can go a long way in protecting your home’s plumbing, infrastructure, and the state’s limited water resources.
When washed down the sink, FOGs turn into thick sludge as they cool and stick to pipe interiors at the lower parts of the drain. Neither dishwashing detergents nor garbage disposals have the ability to properly break down these materials, which build up over time. Eventually, this sludge can cause sewer blockages, backups, and overflows, which pose potential health and environmental hazards.
Additionally, the state of New Jersey is under an active Drought Warning, and New Jersey American Water’s Mandatory Conservation Notice is still in effect
for all customers. It is equally important for customers to find ways to reduce their water usage as it is to dispose of FOGs properly during this season of increased cooking, cleaning, and hosting guests.
“As we head into the holiday season, it’s important to remember that our water and wastewater habits can have a big impact, for better or worse,” said Ben Morris, Vice President of Operations for New Jersey American Water. “Whether you’re hosting holiday festivities or traveling to New Jersey to celebrate, practicing smart water habits and proper FOG disposal this holiday season will help us all protect our plumbing, our environment, and our most precious resource—water,” said Morris.
New Jersey American Water provides the following FOG disposal and conservation tips for the holiday season:
Proper FOG Disposal:
1. The answer is not at your disposal. No matter how powerful your garbage disposal may be, it can’t prevent FOGs from sticking to your pipes. Never rinse FOGs
down the drain.
2. Strain it, don’t drain it. To keep food scraps out of pipes, install a basket or strainer in the drain and empty the trapped pieces into the trash.
3. Let’s talk trash. Scrape all food scraps and FOGs from plates, pots, and utensils into the trash before washing.
For more information regarding wastewater tips and treatment, view the infographics on New Jersey American Water’s website, and the FOG disposal video on the company’s YouTube channel. A printable poster with proper FOG disposal tips for restaurants and businesses can also be found on the company’s website.
Holiday Water Conservation:
1. Turn off the tap. Don’t let water run while washing dishes, cleaning vegetables, brushing your teeth, or shaving.
2. Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when full. If you have a water-saver cycle, use it.
3. Fix leaks promptly. Even a slow drip
can waste gallons of water daily. For help, download New Jersey American Water’s Leak Detection Kit at newjerseyamwater. com under Water Information.
4. Take shorter showers. Try to shower in five minutes or less, and don’t let holiday houseguests hog the water.
5. Sweep, don’t spray. Use a broom or rake, instead of a hose, to sweep away leaves, acorns, or debris on pavement.
6. Insulate exposed water pipes with preslit foam insulation to maintain warmth and avoid wasting water while it heats up.
7. Share these tips with guests. Encourage family and friends to adopt water-saving habits during their stay.
New Jersey American Water customers can monitor their water usage and find ways to use water more wisely online through their MyWater account. More indoor and outdoor water-saving tips can be found on New Jersey American Water’s website at newjerseyamwater.com/conservation and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Water Conservation Website.
By Bob Vosseller
Around the JerSey Shore
County Receives Federal Funds For Seniors
OCEAN COUNTY – County officials said federal funding amounting to $432,500 will be used to support senior programs.
County Commissioner Director Barbara Jo Crea said the money will go toward services seniors need most, including transportation, home repair and modification, legal services and medical alert/ caregiver services.
The funding will support nine different groups, including Community Services Inc. of Ocean County, the County’s major home delivered meals and nutrition site
provider, Brick Township, Lakewood Community Services Corp., Community Medical Center, and Point Pleasant.
“We directed a large portion of the additional funds to the priorities identified and also provided more funds for socialization and recreational programs to get seniors out and about again,” she said. “Since Covid, depression and isolation continue to be a problem with seniors and to combat it, we have directed additional dollars for socialization and recreation programs.”
Having them socially engaged helps their physical and mental health, she added. There is also a growing demand for medical alert
buttons to keep seniors safe in their homes. These are funded through the Caregiver Support dollars.
“The funding that allowed us to increase these contracts and in turn help more of our seniors comes from other counties that did not use all of the American Rescue Plan funds that were distributed by the federal government,” she said. “Ocean County was a beneficiary of this and is now distributing an additional $432,500 to increase some of our services.”
“Ocean County is home to one of the largest senior populations in the United States with more than 220,000 seniors living here,” she said. “Our office of Senior Services so far in
2024 has assisted nearly 10,000 clients and the total number of units of services provided is 14,413 so far this year. I am pleased that this Board is contributing to a better quality of life for so many of our seniors and we intend to continue to do so during the days ahead.”
“As a Board, we know it’s imperative we provide the funding needed for programs that help a high percentage of this population, who may be living solely on Social Security, to remain independent, with a secure roof over their heads, food on their table, the ability to access services and tap into recreational opportunities,” she added.
Celebrate The Season With Holiday Shows At The Grunin Center
TOMS RIVER – It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Celebrate the music of the holiday season with the Grunin Center for the Arts and a delightful lineup of holiday shows and performances scheduled through the end of 2024. Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to reserve your seats right away!
Broadway for the Holidays 4 – December 14, 20, 21 at 7:30 p.m.; December 15, 21, 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets: Adults $24, Seniors $22.
Returning by popular demand, this festive extravaganza brings the magic of Broadway to the holiday season like never before. Join us for a dazzling journey through the beloved songs and timeless classics that capture the spirit of the holidays.
Ballet for Young Audiences: The Nutcracker –December 14 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets: Adults $19, Children $16. Join us for another year of this Grunin Center
holiday tradition! The Ballet for Young Audiences production of The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara, a young girl on the brink of womanhood whose dreams are both childlike and tinged with romance. She is the favorite godchild of Herr Drosselmeyer, a mysterious clockmaker who helps to transport Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to a special realm. Sponsored by RWJBarnabas Health Community Medical Center. Christmas with the Celts – December 20 at
7 p.m. Tickets: $46 to $42.
Christmas with the Celts presents the perfect combination of ancient Irish carols, contemporary Christmas standards, spontaneous humor, and thrilling Irish dancing, giving audiences a most memorable Christmas experience.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit grunincenter.org or call the Grunin Center Box Office at 732-255-0500.
photo of the week
This week, Jersey Shore Online is featuring a photo taken by a valued member of our team. Ali Gradzki has been working for Micromedia Publications for the last 20 years. Gradzki is our production manager, responsible for overseeing the department and producing our high-quality newspapers. Recently, Ali celebrated her 10th wedding anniversary on a trip to England and France. Here is an amazing shot of the Tower Bridge over the River Thames in London. Have a picture to share? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com
NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE HANDS FOR ALL A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC. A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 680 Hooper Ave. • Building B 2nd Floor Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 Starts a triathlon
Airplane assign
ments
Short lines at the register? 14 Chocolate source 15 “I’ve __ up to here!”
Swelter 17 *When “you can see forever,” per the classic song
Han who said, “It’s not wise to upset a Wookiee”
[shrug]
Quantity applied to dubious advice, and
in the
Air purifying gadget
*Genetic lab
Qatari bigwigs
“__ I say more?”
__ power
Like some martinis
AirPods holders
Total 9 Hermana de la madre 10 Farm pen 11 Florence gallery with Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus”
Tried and true 13 Seven of Nine of “Star Trek,” for one 18 Founded, for short
*Almost got the gold 2 Diminish 3 “Gosh, no one is happy with me!” 4 PC alternative
Part of an act
Storyteller
Tolkien creatures
Wholesale quantity 39 Get the better of
U-turn from SSW
Hydroelectric power source
Merciless
Gas up?
Hounded
Stand buy
Wrinkle remover
Casual top 53 Awesome, in showbiz
55 Etsy, e.g. 57 “Frozen” sister 58 Start of an address
Shoot the breeze
Color TV pioneer
North Sea diving
World Cup chants 27 Network connections 28 She/__ pronouns 29 “No question is too personal” session, for short 31 “Yosemite Valley Winter” photographer Adams
Transgression
JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
ARIES (March 21-April 19): When you have a chance to mingle, consider extending your hand in friendship and making some new contacts. Being open to the latest technology may help you shift gears and focus attention on achieving success for several weeks.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The more the merrier, they say. Invite someone along to a community event where a festive mood might remind you of the upcoming holiday season. Someone unexpected could jump at the opportunity to lend a helping hand.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Learn to let go of past mistakes and forgive. While minor errors might be highlighted, it’s important not to overlook them. A close friend or partner could help you find a positive solution, ensuring you don’t repeat the same mistake.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Aim to create a sense of serenity within your surroundings. While others might be rushing around or in a frenzy, you can be a source of calm and peace. Partnering with the right person could make your holiday outings even more joyful.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Your aim in social settings might be popularity, and you may naturally possess a knack for making friends and entertaining others. By taking the first step when you meet someone new, you can break the ice in a warm, inviting, and friendly way.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You might develop a festive sparkle in your eyes as the week unfolds. Your admiration could be soaring, so consider embracing invitations and having a great time. A new connection could blossom into a long-lasting relationship.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Integrity means following through on your promises. You may feel called to ensure every detail is perfect before you move ahead with your plans for the best results. Make the provisions necessary to maximize your odds of success.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Show an interest in others and you could be exposed to something new. You may conduct a poll to gather diverse opinions that lead to you breaking away from your usual routines. There may be a chance to enjoy dinner at an exotic location.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Pay attention to all those minor details that could make the anticipated holiday delights a reality. Consider hanging some lights, baking some cookies, or buying extra wrapping paper. Add your own original touches to everything you do.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Your desire to participate in social outings may be something that changes periodically. A friend might hope for a well-connected spot, but you don’t need to participate in the race. Handle a clash of opinions with good grace this week.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Remember to exercise tact and diplomacy. A busy upcoming holiday schedule at home may need careful planning and organization rather than daydreaming. Those around you might be willing to make changes and offer their support.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Think of ways to leverage your core competencies in the upcoming week. Take pride in your attentiveness while working diligently to finalize your holiday plans. While it may seem like you’re not doing much, you could be achieving a lot.
By America’s Test Kitchen
LAMB SHANKS BRAISED
IN RED WINE WITH HERBES DE PROVENCE
Serves 6
6 (12- to 16-ounce) lamb shanks, trimmed
1 teaspoon plus a pinch table salt, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
3 carrots, peeled and cut crosswise into 2-inch pieces
2 onions, sliced thick
2 celery ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons herbes de Provence
2 cups dry red wine
3 cups chicken broth
Ground black pepper
1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Pat lamb shanks dry with paper towels and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in Dutch oven over medium- high heat until just smok-
ing. Brown three shanks on all sides, 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer shanks to a large plate and repeat with remaining 1 tablespoon oil and remaining three shanks.
2. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons fat from pot. Add carrots, onions, celery, tomato paste, garlic, herbes de Provence, and remaining pinch salt and cook until vegetables just begin to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in wine, then broth, scraping up any browned bits; bring to simmer. Nestle shanks, along with any accumulated juices, into pot.
3. Return to simmer and cover; transfer pot to oven. Cook for 1 1/2 hours. Uncover and continue to cook until tops of shanks are browned, about 30 minutes. Flip shanks and continue to cook until remaining sides are browned and fork slips easily in and out of shanks, 15 to 30 minutes longer.
4. Remove pot from oven and let rest for 15 minutes. Using tongs, transfer shanks and vegetables to large plate and tent with aluminum foil. Skim fat from braising liquid and season liquid with salt and pepper to taste. Return shanks to braising liquid to warm through before serving.
