Local Filmmaker Provides Sequel To Holiday Favorite
A scene from “Ebenezer The Traveler” made by local fi
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 fi lm that premiered on Apple+TV on December 6. It will also be available on Amazon Prime and over a dozen streaming services.
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, fi lmed, edited and produced by Valenti, a Toms River resident who heads Valenti Vision Films.
Following the merriest Christmas day of Ebenezer 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
Gravitas Ventures, an Anthem Sports & Entertainment Company has acquired U.S. and Canadian rights to Joe Valenti’s holiday drama which (Filmmaker - See Page 4)
Cops: School Board Member Owned Child Porn
By Chris Lundy FARMINGDALE –
A member of the local school board who was also a crossing guard was charged with possession of child pornography, police said.
William L. Shaffer, 47, was charged with one count of third-degree Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials.
The district released a statement noting that as a crossing guard, he was employed by the town, not the school. The statement continued to say:
“Today we were advised of the arrest of one of the Farmingdale Board of Education board members. We want to assure our parents, students, staff and our school community that we are working very closely with law enforcement to guarantee that the safety and security of our students remains the highest priority. Although the individual is not an employee of the school district, measures have been taken so that the individual will not have any access to the school
premises while charges are pending. We trust the judicial process to address this matter appropriately and promptly and we hope to return to focusing on our primary mission of serving children.”
It appears as though Shaffer’s name was already removed from the Board of Education webpage by the time the charges became public. His name is listed as a member in the roll call in the minutes of recent meetings. He attended
(Member - See Page 5)
5K Held For Mental Health In Memory Of Berkeley Officer
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 fi rst 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 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.
“Sometimes, the people you wouldn’t think need help are the ones who do,” Berkeley
(Officer - See Page 5)
Photo by Chris Lundy Participants at the 5th Annual Survivor Day 5K Run/Walk was held in Island Heights.
Photo courtesy Valenti Vision Films
lmmaker Joe Valenti.
Filmmaker:
Continued From Page 1
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 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,
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.
Amanda
Photo courtesy Valenti Vision Films Filmmaker Joe Valenti of Toms River joins cast members of “Ebenezer the Traveler” a fi lm that premiered on Apple+TV on December 6.
Officer:
Continued From Page 1
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 fi nd the resources they need.”
reason I’m a police officer today is because of him.”
Member:
Continued From Page 1
Joe Chester, who spoke at the event about his uncle, said “Butchie was my hero. The the September 18 meeting but was absent from the October 30 meeting. The next board of education meeting is December 11. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Of-
Kirsten Schenk fi rst organized this event in honor of her nephew and godson, Christian 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
fice began the investigation in September of this year. As with many of these cases, it began when they received a tip from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. They learned that Shaffer had viewed and was in possession of these child sexual abuse materials. He was arrested the
Winter Melodies: Band Of Two Rivers Concert
HOWELL – Join as we celebrate the holiday season with Band of Two Rivers, a nonprofit community concert band that consists of over 30 musicians! They will be playing a variety of music to get everyone in the holiday spirit! The band has approximately 30 players with musicians of all ages, from high school students to senior citizens. The band is very unique in that it has an “open door policy,” with no auditions, which entices retirees to find their high school or college instrument
and play again. The music is standard and contemporary concert band arrangements from overtures and Broadway medleys to marches and novelty tunes. The harmonies, syncopations, and marching tempos of the wide variety of music the band plays lifts everyone’s spirit! Concert takes place on December 21 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Howell Library. Contact Rebecca Kim at 732-938-2300 or email rkim@ monmouthcountylib.org for more information.
suicide impacts police, fi refighters and fi rst 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.
“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.
morning of December 6 without incident by members of the MCPO High Tech Bureau and Search Warrant Execution Team. Shaffer had won re-election in November. He was endorsed by the New Jersey Project, a group that fights against the new sex education curriculum, claiming that it exposes children to sexual materials.
Anyone with further information about this matter is being asked to contact Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Anthony Lacher at 800-533-7443. Char ges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.
CO-ED Adult Volleyball Clinic
HOWELL – This clinic is for any adults 18+ who want to learn the basics of volleyball or to freshen up their skills. This course will be taught by Rebecca Scott who coaches other teams as well. Please make sure to wear proper shoes and comfortable clothing and water.
Clinic begins January 6. For more information and to register, visit howellpal. org.
Menorah Lighting Ceremony
HOWELL – Howell Township presents their Menorah Lighting Ceremony on December 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Howell Municipal Building. Hot drinks and pastries available.
S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Senator Supports County Regarding Monmouth Executive Airport
Capitol Comments
Senator Robert W. Singer 30th Legislative District
TRENTON - In light of recent news regarding the Monmouth Executive Airport, Senator Bob Singer (R-30) released the following statement:
“It is of the utmost importance that Monmouth County officials can continue their due diligence regarding the inspection of the Monmouth Executive Airport to ensure residents’ safety,” said Sen. Singer.
“Ultimately, it is in everyone’s best interest that the county has a detailed understanding of all aspects of the situation to identify the best path forward for its constituents.”
The Howell Times previously reported that the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners announced its plans to assess the Monmouth Executive Airport.
The County has hired international aviation consulting fi rm, Merchant Aviation, LLC, to perform a comprehensive business feasibility analysis of the airport. The analysis will entail a full examination of the con-
ditions, safety, and fi nances of the airport.
According to the county officials, the airport has been declining for years. Improvement to its infrastructure or facilities has been very minimal.
“Representatives from the County have heard disturbing reports from a variety of sources about the condition of the airport and its supporting facilities,” Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said. “I recently toured the airport and came away with my own, serious concerns, both about safety at the airport and its fi nancial viability. We are hiring Merchant Aviation to determine if the airport could be better run and maintained under County ownership.”
The airport was originally built in 1938
by Ed Brown who was a self-taught aviator and Navy pilot. Over time, the airport offered private plane chartering along with skydiving and other services.
Ed Brown passed in 2006, and in 2013 a consortium known as Wall Aviation fi nally was able to purchase the airport from the Brown family, according to Monmouth Jet Center’s website.
Alan Antaki, who is president of the Wall Herald Corp. – which owns the 340-acre airport and the 400 surrounding acres, said the Monmouth County Commissioners have been trying to seize his property using eminent domain. He warned that the county is spending thousands in taxpayers’ dollars to fund this.
Bill Would Improve Services For Individuals With Developmental Disabilities
Capitol Comments
Senator Cory Booker
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 fi nd 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 fi nd the resources that they need.”
“United Way brings communities together to fi nd 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.
“We are excited to see the introduction of the EASE Act and the inclusion of the navigator services pilot. This is a great fi rst 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
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!
C OMMUNITY N EWS
Learn About Financial Fraud, And Email And Phone Scams
HOWELL – The Howell Township Police Department - Financial Crimes Unit & St. Veronica’s
Parish Hall will be hosting an Educational Presentation on Financial Fraud Trends on December 18 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Veronica’s Parish Hall, 4219 Route 9 North, Howell.
Topics Covered:
• Email Phishing Scams
• Account Takeovers
• Smishing (Text Message Scams)
• Grandparent Scams
• Other Financial Fraud Schemes
Join Detectives from Howell Township Police Department specializing in financial crimes, along with representatives from local banks in Freehold, Farmingdale, and Howell.
Admission is free and open to all members of the community. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed and protect yourself from fi nancial crimes.
Ramtown Fire Annual Santa Ride
HOWELL – Annual Ramtown Fire Company Santa Ride is on December 21, starting at 9:30 a.m.
As always, they will be collecting non-per-
•
•
•
ishable food for the Howell Food Pantry. Listen for the sirens and come out and wave to Santa! They will try to let residents know where Santa is going as the day goes on.
O
cers Bring Meals To ose In Need
Holiday Meats!
*
A Little Bit of Italy Around the Corner
Jackson Square Plaza (between Bartley Rd. & Harmony Rd.) 180 N. County Line Road, Jackson P: 732-942-1151 • 732-942-1152
VEGETABLES
HOWELL – On November 27, the Howell Police Department continued their yearly tradition of bringing Thanksgiving meals to the less fortunate.
Eggplant Parmigiana…………………………$50
Eggplant Rollatini.……………………………$55
Sauteed Broccoli Rabe...……………………...$60
Sauteed String Beans w/Garlic & Oil.………...$55
Stu ed Mushrooms (Oreganata)…………….$50
Stu ed Mushrooms (Sausage)……………….$55
Broccoli Spears (Garlic & Oil)…………………$55
Thank you to the members of Howell Township Police PBA Local 228, Gene Young, the Ornsteins, and Melanie Decker of the Howell Township Senior Center.
Oven Roasted Potatoes………………………$50 APPETIZERS
Mini Rice Balls...………………………………$35
Mini Sicilian Rice Balls.……………….………$40
Prosciutto Balls..………………………………$40
Hot Buffet
(minimum 20 people)
*Choice of 3 - $18.99 per person* (choose 1 pasta, 1 vegetable, 1 entree)
*Choice of 5 - $22.99 per person* (choose 2 pastas, 1 vegetable, 2 entrees)
Linguini Garlic & Oil - Cavatelli & Broccoli VEGETABLES
Eggplant Parmigiana or Rollatini - Oven Roasted Potatoes Sauteed Broccoli Spears CHICKEN
Marsala - Parmigiana - Francese MEATS
Sausage & Peppers - Meatballs - Roast Pork with Gravy Roast Beef with Gravy FISH
Mussels Marinara - Calamari Marinara - Baked Clams Oreganata VEAL
Parmigiana - Marsala- Francese
Potato Croquettes……………………………$40
Artichoke Oreganata………. . ……………….$65
Fried Ravioli..….………………………………$50
Fried Breaded Zucchini Sticks………………..$55
Mozzarella Sticks……………………………...$55
Chicken Fingers (approx. 40 pcs)…………….$60
SALAD
Holiday A La Carte
Half Tray Serves 10-12 People
PASTAS
Penne Vodka.…………………………………$50
Baby Green Salad…………………………….$35
Garden Salad.……………….………………...$35
Caesar Salad…………………………………..$35
Holiday Seafood Dishes
Stu ed Shells…………………………………$50
Manicotti……………………………………...$50
Rigatoni Bolognese (Meat Sauce)……………$55
Baked Ziti...……………………………………$50
Cavatelli & Broccoli...………………………… $50
Linguini Clams (Red or White)...………………$55
Meat Lasagna.....………………………………$60
Cheese Lasagna.....……………………………$50
CHICKEN
Marsala.………………………………………$60
Bella Italia (white wine & mushroom).………$65
Parmigiana.…………………………………...$55
Francese....……………………………………$60
Saltimbocca (Prosciutto, spinach, mozzarella)……..$65
VEAL
Marsala.………………………………………$80
Francese....……………………………………$80
Parmigiana.…………………………………...$80
Bella Italia (sundried tomato, mushroom, white wine sauce, topped w/mozzarella)…………………$85
Saltimbocca (Prosciutto, spinach, mozzarella)……..$85
BEEF & PORK
Roast Pork with Gravy..………………………$60
Sausage & Peppers…………………………...$60
Filet Mignon Tips (Gravy & Sliced Mushrooms)…$85
Homemade Meatballs..………………………$60
Roast Beef with Gravy...………………………$65
Hot or Sweet Sausage w/Broccoli Rabe..……..$65
Steak Pizzaiola (Red Sauce)…………………….$65
Baked Clams Oreganata...……………………$60
Seafood Fra Diavolo…….…………………….$85
(shrimps, clams, mussels & calamari)
Zuppa Di Pesce ………………………………$85
Filet of Sole (fried or francese) ………….……$65
Shrimp Scampi..………………………………$80
Shrimp Oreganata...…………………………..$80
Baccala Salad (Cod). …………priced accordingly
HOWELL – Southard Fire Department’s Annual Breakfast with Santa will be on December 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., fi re truck rides until 1 p.m.
Seafood Salad...………………priced accordingly
(a mix of calamari, scungilli, shrimp with celery & olives)
(Jumbo shrimp w/celery, olives, oil and lemon juice)
Jumbo Shrimp Salad....………priced accordingly
Pulpo Salad . . .………………priced accordingly
(Tender chunks of octopus with celery, greata olives, garlic & virgin olive oil) Half Tray Serves 10-12 People
Small Serves 10-12 / Large Serves 15-20
Crudite & Dip
$95
Mozzarella & Tomato Platter …………. . $60…$110
Bruschetta Platter. . .…………………… $45…$80
Shrimp Cocktail……………………priced accordingly
Assorted Cheese Platter.. ……………… $60…$110
Italian Cold Cut Platter. ..………………
American Cold Cut Platter.
Admission is $13 ages 13 and up, $10 for kids ages 3 to 12, kids ages 3 and under are free. Tickets sold at the door. Includes breakfast buffet, fi retruck rides, and meet Santa!
Photo courtesy Howell Police
Christmas Tree Lights Up With Holiday Spirit
HOWELL – Howell Township had a Holly-Jolly time at The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. From hot chocolate, to ice skating, and even snow!
They appreciate the Governing Body for lighting the Christmas Tree, Howell High School “Brass Choir,” Howell High School
“One Voice,” Howell High School Relay For Life, The Salon Professional Academy, Pony & Pals, Southard Firehouse, Party Perfect Rentals, Township Departments, and especially Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elf, and their helpers! Howell Township hopes your holidays are merry and bright!
Cookie Swap At Breakfast Bonanza Networking
HOWELL – Holiday Cookie Swap at the Howell Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Bonanza Meeting on December 17 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Big City Bagels, Route 9, Aldrich Road, Howell.
Bring your favorite holiday cookies, either homemade or store bought, and share with other members. They estimate 20 to 25 members attend breakfast.
Meet other chamber members, network with local businesses, share what’s happen-
ing with your business and any upcoming events/promotions.
Cost to attend is $9 for members, $18 for not yet members, whether you eat or not (cash only). Includes coffee/tea and a bagel with butter. If you wish to order a different item, you will have to pay the restaurant the difference. The chamber will give the staff a gratuity. Not yet members are welcome to attend up to two Chamber meetings/events. Register at howellchamber.com.
Photo courtesy Howell Township
P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ
• Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388
news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com
Cadets Collect Donations For Local Food Pantry
HOWELL – It’s the season of giving and the cadets of Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad #1 are taking the opportunity to give back.
Pictured is a group of cadets with their advisors after their collection of donations for the local food pantry. Thanksgiving season is all about helping those in need and we at 19-21 give back wherever we can. We are beyond proud of these young men and women! Keep it up!
Township Seeking Commi ee Members
HOWELL – The Howell Township Board of Education will be seeking citizen members to serve on the following anticipated advisory committees during the 2025 calendar year:
• Community Interaction
• Education
• Finance
• Legislative Advocacy for Education
• Operations
• Policy
Interested Howell Citizens should complete the form on the district website at howell.k12.nj.us or submit an application (via email preferred) including address, daytime and evening telephone numbers, email address and three committee choices in order of preference. Please also include a brief statement indicating reason
for interest in serving on the particular committees.
Please note the committees listed above are anticipated. Upon re-organization the Board may add, delete, combine, or realign the committees, however, all requests will be considered.
To facilitate committee needs, appointments may be made prior to the closing date. Please apply as soon as possible.
Apply by Mail or Email to: Mr. Ronald Sanasac, Assistant Superintendent for Business Administration/Board Secretary, Howell Township Board of Education P.O. Box 579 Howell, New Jersey 07731.
Email: rsanasac@howell.k12.nj.us. Indicate Board Committee in subject line of email. Last date of submission: no later than 3 p.m. on January 3.
Southard Fire Department’s Annual Breakfast With Santa
HOWELL – Southard Fire Department’s Annual Breakfast with Santa will be on December 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., fire truck rides until 1 p.m.
Admission is $13 ages 13 and up, $10 for kids ages 3 to 12, kids ages 3 and under are free. Tickets sold at the door. Includes breakfast buffet, firetruck rides, and meet Santa!
Symposium On Mental Health And Wellness
HOWELL – Save the date for a Symposium On Mental Health And Wellness held by the Monmouth County Schools
Partnership for Wellness on February 6 at 6 p.m. at Brookdale Community College. Registration coming soon.
Photo courtesy Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad
C OMMUNITY N EWS
Local Animals Ready For Adoption
MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Monmouth County SPCA has a number of pets available for adoption.
Merlin is a 2-year-young kitty who was originally found as a stray and is now looking for his forever home. Merlin is a friendly boy who loves meeting new people and getting all the pets and snuggles! This handsome guy also loves toy timestrings, mice, bouncy balls and everything else you can think of. Merlin is cool with other kitties so can share his home with a
friend or would also be happy as your only babe - he’s easy to please. Merlin has an old injury to his eye but it doesn’t affect him one bit!
The MCSPCA only does adoptions in person (please bring all family members). They will ask you to fi ll out an Adoption Survey and speak with an Adoption Counselor to help fi nd your perfect match. They are located at 260 Wall Street in Eatontown. They can be reached at 732542-0040.
LINCROFT – Calling all artists! The Monmouth County Park System is seeking entries into its upcoming Can’t Believe Your Eyes: Optical Illusions Exhibit. Held from February 7 through May 16 at the Gallery in the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center, Lincroft.
This exhibit will feature artwork that utilizes optical illusion, surrealistic thematic
imagery, or conveys mirages. All mediums are welcome to apply. Additional information and entry form are available on “The Gallery at Thompson Park” page at MonmouthCountyParks.com. Entry deadline is January 9.
To learn more about the exhibit, the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center, or the Park System, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000.
Howell Elks Presents Elvis Show
HOWELL – Howell Elks Lodge presents
on January 3 staring Evan Mills
The life and times and music of Elvis. Tickets are $15 and doors open of 7 p.m. Bring your own snacks. Call 732-8042499 for reservations.
Photo courtesy MCSPCA
Elvis Show
as Elvis.
Ducks, Dogs, And Decoys: Rain Fails To Dampen Show AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE
By Stephanie Faughnan
TUCKERTON – There’s a saying that rain is “good weather for ducks,” and that seemed true for the 42nd annual Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy & Gunning Show. Thousands of attendees flocked to Tuckerton on a wet and gloomy weekend, but their faces brightened when they walked around the booths.
The two-day event brought in visitors from across the country, all eager to enjoy a unique showcase of the Barnegat Bay’s rich heritage. Over 300 vendors offered everything from handcrafted decoys to folk art, hunting and fi shing gear, and framed duck artwork.
One of the greatest crowd-pleasers was the “Jumping in Jersey” dog competitions. Labrador retrievers and other hunting dogs of all sizes and even smaller dogs like Yorkies took part in events called big air and extreme vertical. Delmarva DockDogs hosted the dog competitions set up on one side of the event with a big swimming pool.
“One of the contests is all about how high or far these dogs can jump,” said Laura Arteaga of Delmarva DockDogs. “It’s amazing to see the excitement from both the dogs and their owners.”
While many of the canine participants came from the east coast, Arteaga said that one pup came from Italy to join the fun. She explained the excitement of the high jump, or “extreme vertical,” event:
“Every dog starts at a different height, but it’s always thrilling to see how high they can go,” Arteaga added. “The goal is for the dogs to hit the boom - the long pole you see - and it’s amazing to watch their agility.”
Not just for hunters or sporting dog owners, the show also appealed to art collectors and woodworkers. Keith Salkeld from Forked River shared his passion for collecting decoys, explaining that while some use them for hunting, he fi nds joy in showcasing them. “In years past, I’ve used them for gunning,” he said, “but now they’re mostly decorative.”
Salkend’s collection included some pretty high end pieces that he hoped to sell so he could invest in additional ducks for display.
Carvers like Rich Moretz from Maryland have turned decoy making into a fi ne art. He started carving at the age of 12.
“This project is special,” he said, as he described the $4,000 hummingbird commission, which includes a cardinal and an
anchor, symbolizing family members who have passed away.
“I’ve been doing this for 30 years now, and it’s all about practice. If you work at
something long enough, you get good, or you get bored,” he added with a smile. Moretz, who came to the show from (Ducks - See Page 14)
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan
Rich Moretz of Maryland explains the commissioned piece he was carving at the show.
Protect Yourself From Fraud is Holiday Shopping Season
FREEHOLD
– The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is reminding residents to protect their personal information while purchasing gifts this holiday season.
“According to the Federal Trade Commission, U.S. residents lost over $10 billion to scams in 2023,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “While the holiday season is a joyful time of year, scammers and criminals see it as an opportunity to steal your personal information for nefarious use.”
When shopping, consider the following tips to help protect yourself from scams: In stores, make sure the scanned prices for your purchases are correct. Overcharges cost time and money, especially when they are not noticed immediately;
• Before buying anything based on an online review, search for information from a trusted source. Browsing the internet for different prices may help keep you on budget;
• If you use your smartphone or computer to shop for deals, be weary of unexpected emails, texts, or notifications that may flood your device. Fraudulent websites will advertise to consumers claiming bargains on a variety of brand names;
• Save your receipts. When shopping online, keep copies of order numbers, refund policies, shipping costs and warranties;
• Be mindful of warranties. Even though it is not required by law, warranties come with the majority of major purchases;
• Have packages delivered to a secure location or when someone is home. If no one is home, have packages delivered to
Volunteers Needed At New Jersey Blood Services
NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers.
The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area.
No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform tasks as needed and must provide proof of COVID vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors. For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
To apply online as a blood drive volunteer, go to: volgistics.com/appform/2127944197.
work or ask a neighbor if they can watch for the delivery.
Monmouth County residents can contact the County’s Division of Consumer Affairs, which helps protect and serve the public through educational programs and outreach in an effort to prevent consumer fraud and illicit business practices.
“The staff at the Division of Consumer
Affairs is always prepared to assist those who believe they have been the victim of fraud or an unfair business practice,” said Commissioner Erik Anderson, liaison to the Monmouth County Division of Consumer Affairs. “The Division also provides educational programs to help combat fraud and prevent problems before they occur. If you would like to arrange for one of our speak-
ers to provide a free program to your group, contact them by calling 732-431-7902.”
Information about consumer affairs programs, complaint histories of businesses and lemon law booklets can be found on the Monmouth County website at visitmonmouth.com, or requested by calling 732431-7900 or by emailing consumeraffairs@ co.monmouth.nj.us.
Ducks:
Continued From Page 12
Maryland, said that he fi rst started carving when he took a class at the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum in his home state. The museum is renowned for its collection of fi nely carved decoy ducks.
Of course, there were plenty of other ducks, too - whether carved or called. Contestants in the duck calling competition brought their best efforts, mimicking
the sounds that bring waterfowl closer to hunters. There was also no shortage of camoufl age gear, framed artwork, and even duck hunting boats available for purchase, giving everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to collectors something to take home.
The Ocean County Board of Commissioners and the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation hosted the event. Next year’s show is already planned for September 27 and September 28, 2025.
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan
Jumping in Jersey dog competitions were one of the highlights of the show.
Dr. Izzy’s
Sound News
Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)
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.
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 shown to provide some relief, and they
Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.
Give Tinnitus Stress e Boot
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.
• 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!
H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Dear Pharmacist
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Sleep Compression: Maximizing Rest in Less Time
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
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 eff ects. 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 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.
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 10 th 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
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Your Last Will And Testament And The Role Of Your Executor
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
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.
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
In choosing an Executor in your Will, you should choose someone who is trustworthy and can make fi nancial 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.
School To Host Harlem Wizards Game
HOWELL – The World-Famous Harlem Wizards want to invite you and the whole family to join them for a night of tricks, hoops, and alley-oops!
Game will be on January 22 at Middle School North, located at 501 Squankum Yellowbrook. The game begins at 7 p.m. and the doors will open at 6 p.m. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
Purchase tickets at: pretix.eu/harlemwizards/farmingdalenj01-22-25-07-00pm.
Pricing:
• Student - $25
• General Admission - $25
• Reserved Student - $40
• Reserved Adult - $40
• Courtside Plus Student - $60
• Courtside Plus Adult - $60
3rd Annual Animal Center Donation Drive
HOWELL – The Southard Grange #218 supports Jersey Shore Animal Center with their 3rd Annual Donation Drive.
Spread the love of giving this Valentine’s season! All items go the Jersey Shore Animal Center, in February to show our love to the animals!
Last day to donate is February 4, 7
to 8:30 p.m. Drop off dates: January 7, and February 4 at 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Contact to make other arrangements days and times: Southard281@gmail. com or 848-373-8529. Their address is S 4860, US-9 Howell.
They are asking for items on their Wish List. You can find the list at: jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org/wish-list.
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
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)
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)
CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)
Affordable Landscaping - Fall & spring clean ups. Shrubs & tree pruning, sod & seed lawns, retaining & stone walls, topsoil & mulch planting, & much more. 640-999-0072. (47)
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)
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:
• 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
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.
(t/n)
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)
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)
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.
*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.
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By Chris Lundy
Your Weekly Environmental Tip: Are Biodegradable Trash Bags e Answer?
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
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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.
AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE
Students Participate In Police Top Physical Challenge
Photo courtesy Freehold Regional High School District
MANALAPAN – Students at Manalapan High School took part in the New Jersey State Police Top Physical Challenge. Officers from the state police were on hand to oversee the challenges and explained that this program emphasizes the importance of physical fitness, particularly in the law enforcement career. Many participants are students in the Law Enforcement and Public
Safety Magnet Program. Participants took on five challenges: situps, push-ups, flex arm hang, broad jump, and shuttle run. Each student was scored based on their performance, and those who landed in the top tier would be awarded a gold challenge coin. There were also gold, silver, and bronze patches for students ranking just under the gold challenge coin level.
is 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 Carboniferous 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.
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
“Let’s Talk” With Dr. Jani
By Michael Vandenberg
“The era of paternalistic medicine where I’m the doctor, you’re the patient, and you’re going to do this because I say so is long gone,” Dr. Samir Jani said to me recently. “That’s just not the way I was trained.” When it comes to your health, shouldn’t you be in the driver’s seat? That’s certainly the guiding philosophy passed down by Garden State Medical Center’s founder, Dr. Dharam Mann, and it’s what makes Dr. Jani the perfect fit here. He wants to use his expertise and impart his knowledge to help you make an informed decision about your pain management.
And there’s no question that Dr. Jani has plenty of information to share because he checks all the boxes when it comes to education. At age 17 he was already accepted into a higher education program that included a guaranteed spot in medical school. He kept a high GPA while taking his courses at an accelerated rate that allowed him to finish a year early. Then he jumped right into residencies and a fellowship focusing on pain, anesthesiology, and internal medicine, culminating in his current specialty of Interventional Pain Management. He finished his fellowship and began practicing in 2016, making his way to GSMC the following year.
Dr. Jani pointed to a variety of reasons as to why he decided to make the switch to GSMC. For one thing, it fosters a seamless team environment. “The support and infrastructure of the practice is huge,” like the large network of staff on hand, to the electronic record keeping. With those tasks already being taken care of, Dr. Jani is able to put his entire focus on alleviating your pain. After all, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of urgency when it comes to pain management because people are running out of options by the time they come to him.
Most of Dr. Jani’s patients are those who have seen countless doctors and had lots of tests but have never been able to find a diagnosis and fix the underlying cause. “My ankle hurts,” Dr. Jani said as a general example. “I’ve seen ten podiatrists, I’ve had six ankle surgeries, and no one’s fixed it.” But even though it may never be fixed, “there are things we can do to at least help you get rid of the pain”.
Thankfully, Dr. Jani is not the type of doctor who just throws pills at the problem; he has a very strict interpretation of the related safety regulations. Not that he doesn’t use medications at all, but it’s only a tiny part of what he can do. “We’re highly interventional,” said Dr. Jani. He can target the pain with various injections, or hide the pain using electricity to target different stimulators in the nervous system. By implanting pain pumps, the medication is delivered directly to your spine, creating a much stronger effect. It all depends on the severity and longevity of the pain.
These steps may seem elaborate, but rest assured Dr. Jani is conservative in his relief suggestions. “I always tell patients that if I don’t have to do something, I don’t want to do it. So if I can make it go away with a two minute injection, that’s what I’m going to do,” he said. If that doesn’t work, then Dr. Jani will happily go over additional minimally invasive options with you. He might even just recommend physical therapy if that’s what the patient prefers.
After all, he has the tools and knowledge, but you also
know your body and how you feel. When the two of you collaborate, you’ll see inspiring results. Dr. Jani had no problem giving me a cou-
ple examples of his “home runs”. For instance, one woman came in complaining of chronic pelvic pain. She’d had ten surgeries and was on a ton of medicine at this point, and yet her pain was making her life miserable. With just a few injections, her pain is effectively gone and she no longer has to take any pills. Now her kids see her and say, “You’re back to being yourself. You’re Mom again.” As an interventional pain management doctor, “I don’t know what was causing her
pain, but I knew what she was feeling and that’s what I targeted,” said Dr. Jani.
Another patient came to him one time with fibromyalgia, with pain primarily in the back and neck. He first put her on non-opioid medication, which solved some of her problems but not all of them. Injections did the trick for her neck. For her lower back, he used a spinal cord stimulator, which is like a pacemaker for the spine. With that combination, she’s feeling fantastic and rarely even has to come in for a visit. “Previously she was going in to see another pain
management doctor, having to go in every month to get Percocet that she didn’t even want to take and wasn’t even that helpful.” With her newfound happiness and relief, she was able to go on her first vacation in years! You deserve to be pain-free too. Give Garden State Medical Center a call today at 1-888-376-2661 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jani or any of their other superb pain management specialists. Feel free to visit gsmedicalcenter.org for a full listing of their convenient locations and to get more information on treatment.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 Starts a triathlon
Airplane assignments 11 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
Watch chain
Requests
DVR pioneer
Rich cake
purifying
*Genetic lab project
Qatari bigwigs
“__ I say more?”
*Almost got the gold
Han who said, “It’s not wise to upset a Wookiee”
[shrug]
Quantity applied to dubious advice, and what’s found in the answer to each starred
2 Diminish 3 “Gosh, no one is happy with me!” 4 PC alternative
__ power 6 Like some martinis
AirPods holders 8 Total 9 Hermana de la madre 10 Farm pen 11 Florence gallery with Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” 12 Tried and true 13 Seven of Nine of “Star Trek,” for one 18 Founded, for short 22 Pewter component 24 Gumbo vegetable 25 Cold, slushy treat 26 World Cup chants 27 Network connections
28 She/__ pronouns 29 “No question is too personal” session, for short
31 “Yosemite Valley Winter” photographer Adams 33 Part of an act 36 Storyteller 37 Tolkien creatures 38 Wholesale quantity 39 Get the better of 40 U-turn from SSW
Hydroelectric power source 44 Merciless 45 Gas up?
Hounded
Stand buy 48 Wrinkle remover 49 Casual top 53 Awesome, in showbiz
55 Etsy, e.g.
57 “Frozen” sister 58 Start of an address 60 Shoot the breeze 61 Color TV pioneer
North Sea diving bird 63 Transgression
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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.
FOR THE WEEK OF DEC 14 - DEC 20 BY
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
JERALDINE SAUNDERS
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.
THIS LAMB IS FALL-OFF-THE-BONE TENDER AND DEEPLY FLAVORFUL
By America’s Test Kitchen
LAMB SHANKS BRAISED IN RED WINE WITH HERBES DE PROVENCE
