2024-12-14 - The Manchester Times

Kevin’s Kids Returns For 42nd Holiday Season $500,000 Water Project Planned

TKevin Burger, of Kevin’s Kids, and his wife Peggy are seen working behind the scenes at “The North Pole.” The couple and many community volunteers worked to sort through all of the incredible donated gifts.

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– The school district’s popular holiday gift drive Kevin’s Kids turned 42 this year. The program involves many volunteers that leads to families in need having a brighter holiday. The effort involves assisting

every Manchester school district family in need with their holiday gift list being fulfilled. This gift drive does not collect generic gifts, rather they fundraise and shop confidentially from specific gift wish lists submitted by families who ask Kevin’s Kids for support during

the holiday season.

The program began more than four decades years ago when a fi rst grade teacher at Whiting Elementary School shared with Kevin Burger, the school’s principal at the time, about a student who informed him that

(Holiday - See Page 4)

Local 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 fi lmmaker 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 Scrooge’s long and miserable life, the day after fi nds 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.

(Filmmaker - See Page 7)

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER -

The Township Council recently introduced an ordinance appropriating $500,000 for its water treatment utility and tabled an ordinance that concerned tree removal during the latest township council meeting.

Ordinance 24-47 was introduced and will serve to appropriate half a million for various capital improvements and repairs for the water capital east improvement fund. The ordinance

was unanimously approved for introduction by the governing body. A second hearing, when it would be voted into effect, is expected soon.

Earlier in the year, the governing body under the direction of the administration adopted a 10-year maintenance plan for its eastern and western water treatment facility.

Tree Ordinance

During the same meeting, Ordinance 24-17 was tabled, which means held off

(Water - See Page 5)

Unruly Neighbor Dispute Ends

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– Resident Vanessa Cisneros of Midway Avenue came out to a recent Township Council meeting to thank officials for the resolution of a problem in her neighborhood.

For more than a year, the resident has come out to many council meetings requesting help concerning unruly neighbors who were tenants of a house on the block. The mayor, governing body and council have been working on addressing the issue.

“You all know me. I’ve been here complaining, complaining, complaining but I wanted to take a moment out to come in and say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the hard work that you guys do. The issue for now has been resolved. The people who were causing all the problems (public urination, loud noise and cursing late into the evening, public consumption of alcohol) they moved out. Thank God,” she said.

(Dispute - See Page 4)

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

: Continued From Page 1

Santa did not come to his house that year.

Burger and the teacher learned of the child’s holiday wish list and, together with their colleagues, made Christmas happen for that student. From there Kevin’s Kids was formed and has expanded immensely over the years.

Last year, under the leadership of Director of Student Personnel Services Alex George, and alongside Burger, the school district helped approximately 460 children

: Continued From Page 1

Audience members at the meeting loudly applauded upon hearing Cisneros’s news. “I want to thank everyone for listening to me for the past two years. I really appreciate it. Every time we called back you were there. After a meeting, you were there. I am really, really thankful.”

Cisneros added, “I was told by the owner (of the house) that they left two weeks ago as there were just too many complaints.”

to have a holiday to remember.

Kevin’s Kids is once again in full swing mobilizing to fulfill another record number of gift wish list requests.

Burger and his wife Peggy were among the volunteers who were working hard behind the scenes at what school district officials refer to as “The North Pole” - better known as the Manchester Middle School. It is where the couple and various volunteers worked to sort through all of the donated gifts being collected at senior communities and local businesses around town.

Official Reports

During the portion of the meeting where council members and department heads talk about what’s going on in town, Councilman Joseph Hankins reported he attended a Manchester Coordinating Council meeting “who had a speaker talk about human trafficking. Jim (Vaccaro) and I also did the (township) bills.”

Council Vice President Vaccaro said he had attended a Master Plan Committee meeting with Council President Roxy Conniff.

Along with the many people who donated items at various locations within the township, Kevin’s Kids was also present at the recently held Christmas in the Pines event held at Harry Wright Lake in Whiting. The next day, volunteers were back in action at the Hawk’s Craft Fair at the township high school.

“I encourage our residents to shop locally and support our small businesses. Shopping locally supports our township, supports our residents, creates jobs and encourages businesses to consider locating to Manchester Township which is the gemstone of the Jersey shore,” he added.

He also urged the rest of the council to introduce an ordinance in the near future that would serve to encourage new businesses to open in the township.

Council President Conniff reported that she attended the grand opening of physical

Lakehurst Fire Gi Wrapping Services

therapy business on Lacey Road in Whiting that is owned and operated by a township resident. “It is very exciting to have this business open in Whiting.”

Police Chief Antonio Ellis noted that there were additional police patrols during the holiday season. He noted that there were patrols the night before Thanksgiving “which is traditionally a large party night when kids come back from college for the fi rst time and they get a little out of hand sometimes so we target the roads and we have grants that cover those kinds of enforcement.”

LAKEHURST – Lakehurst Fire Department’s Gift Wrapping Services will be provided on December 14 and 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lakehurst

Community Center, 207 Center Street, Lakehurst.

Gift wrap and gift bags will be provided. Stand gift wrapping pricing:

Bulk Gift Wrapping up to 20 gifts –$100

All proceeds go directly to the Lakehurst Volunteer Fire Department.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

seen at the Manchester

Water:

Continued From Page 1 for another time. It was entitled “storm water management” but better known among the public as “the tree ordinance.” That ordinance will be reviewed, revised and reintroduced during the Council’s December 16 meeting according to Council President Roxy Conniff.

The ordinance as written notes that municipalities are required to adopt two new ordinances for privately owned salt storage and for replacing trees that were removed, in addition to the ordinances that have been required since the first, 2004 Tier A MS4 permit was issued. This was a rule governing stormwater for development.

This ordinance would establish requirements for tree preservation, removal and replacement within the township as necessary to reduce soil erosion and pollutant runoff, promote infiltration of rainwater into the soil and protect the environment, public health, safety and welfare.

A tree removal permit accompanied by a tree removal plan including services by a certified tree remover would have to be submitted to the Township Engineer with the Township Department of Inspections. The tree permit removal plans are for existing single family residential lots, for existing residential developments such as planned communities, for new development applications, any property/properties that received major site plan or major subdivision approval and applications

that receive approval from the Township Planning Board or Zoning Board.

All areas cleared of trees shall be stabilized in accordance with the most recent edition of the Standards for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control in New Jersey. The township engineer would have 30 business days to approve or deny a tree removal permit. An appeal process before the governing body can be applied for 10 days after the engineer’s decision. Removal reforestation fees range could be $225 plus a $400 engineering review. Fees would be placed into a fund dedicated to tree planting and continued maintenance of township trees.

The Council unanimously tabled the ordinance. It will be reintroduced during the Council’s December 16 meeting. Residents later expressed relief during the public comment period that it was tabled and revised.

Karen Argenti of the Township’s Environmental Commission said, “I’m happy you took the tree ordinance off the agenda. I think we can work on it together. The Environmental Commission would like to work on a forestry plan.” The Commission met the following day for its monthly meeting and also discussed landfill issues.

Cable Service Contract Carried

Also carried over were ordinances 24-42 and 24-43 involving renewal of the municipal consent to Comcast of NJ LLC, to construct, connect, operate and maintain a cable television and communications system in Manchester and the

same services to Crestwood Village in the township.

“We are still waiting for state approval from the BPU (Bureau of Public Utilities) so I am asking for a motion to carry this,” Council President Conniff said. Both were unanimously carried to December 16.

In other news, the Council voted to award a contract to Blaze Emergency Equipment through Houston Galveston Area Cooperative for emergency personnel protective equipment along with a contract to Moose Safety Supply through Sourcewell National Cooperative for structural firefighting equipment.

P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

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SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

President & Publisher Stew Swann Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff

News Editor Chris Lundy Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller

Production Manager Allison Gradzki Graphic Artist Adriana Miranda Distribution Manager Laura Hoban

Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano

Layout Designer Julia Wilkens

Send your news tips, copy & letters to news@jerseyshoreonline.com

Published Weekly

Filmmaker:

Continued From Page 1

Their fi rst 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 fi lmed 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 Netfl ix 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.”

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.

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

“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.

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.

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

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

Legislators Support Naming Veterans Clinic A er Local Hero

CAPITOL

COMMENTS

9th Legislative District

Senator Carmen F. Amato, Jr. Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf Assemblyman Gregory Myhre

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 River 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 resident 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

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 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.

“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.

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.

Groups Needed For

Soup-R-Bowl Of Chili Challenge

LAKEHURST – The Borough of Lakehurst Historical Society is once again sponsoring its annual Soup-R-Bowl of Chili Challenge on January 25 with a snow date of January 26.

We are looking for local organizations to “pick up a ladle” and enter their best chili and soup recipes in this popular competition. Past participants include the Lakehurst Police Department, Lakehurst Fleet Reserve Association, Lakehurst Fire Company, Lakehurst First Aid Squad, Lakehurst PTA, the Knights of Columbus,

and the Arista Care Cooking Club.

The Soup-R-Bowl of Chili Challenge is one of two major fund raisers for the historical society. Admission is $5 with a gift auction and 50/50 raffle scheduled for the event. All funds raised assist in maintaining the Lakehurst Historical Society Museum, located at 300 Center Street, which helps to keep our rich local history alive.

If you would like to participate in this popular event or for more information, contact Kathy Abrahamsen at 908-839-7388.

Bereavement Support Group

WHITING – The next meeting is December 20 at 1 p.m. in the D&E room of Deerfield Hall Crestwood Village Six, 6 Congasia Road Whiting.

The meetings are open to anyone in the area not just Village 6 residents. Members help others deal with loss of spouse, family

member, or friend. Most of the group has lost someone over the past years and help those new to grief understand the stages of grief. Meetings are free and refreshments are served. You do not have to register you can just show up. For more information, call Rosie at 732-881-1044.

Tra c Safety O ering Child Passenger Seat Installation

MANCHESTER – With the holiday travel season fast approaching, the Manchester Township Traffic Safety Officers are here to help with child passenger seat installs!

Anyone who needs assistance with a child passenger seat is encouraged to

contact the Manchester Police Traffic Safety Section at 732-657-2009 ext. 4400, to schedule an appointment for assistance. Regular car seat installation events, typically held at the Division of Emergency Services building on the fi rst Wednesday of each month, will resume in February.

Crestwood Jewelers Diamonds & Fine Jewelry

Lakehurst Elementary Partners With Naval Support

LAKEHURST – A school-wide assembly proudly showcased the signing of the Proclamation of Adoption Partnership between Lakehurst Elementary School and the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Lakehurst. Through the Adopt-A-School Program, the partnership aims to foster a positive relationship between the Navy, local schools and the community. The program promotes education and the understanding of military

as well as supporting the intellectual, emotional and parental involvement in education.

Speakers during the assembly reflected a commitment to mutual support and educational excellence, Captain James B. Howell and Superintendent Loren Fuhring signed the proclamation with the support of (NSA) Lakehurst members as well as the entire staff and school.

Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club News

WHITING – The Travel Club has met and has started the planning process for 2025 trips. More information about the casino trips will be available once the casinos announce their bonuses for 2025.

February 20, 2025, with a snow date of February 27, 2025 – Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. Price is $35. Trip includes round-trip transportation and a $20 casino bonus. We will gather at Unity Hall at 8:45 a.m. and return at 5:45 p.m. Casino bonuses are subject to change without notice. Valid government issued ID required to receive Casino Bonus.

April 29, 2025 – Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. Price is $35. Trip includes round-trip transportation and a $20 casino bonus. We will gather at Unity Hall at 8:45 a.m. and return at 5:45 p.m. Casino bonuses are subject to change without notice. Valid government issued ID required to receive Casino Bonus.

June 12, 2025 – Trip to Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, PA. Price is $45. Trip includes round-trip transportation and a $25 casino bonus. We will gather at Unity Hall at 7:45 a.m. and return at 6 p.m. Casino bonuses are subject to change without notice. Valid government issued ID required to receive Casino Bonus.

June 24, 2025 – Lunch at Shady Maple and Noah show at Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster, PA. Price: $185.This promises to be another great show so be sure to reserve your ticket early so you won’t be disappointed. We have Orchestra Center

seats reserved for this show. We are collecting a $65 deposit now to reserve your seat, the second payment of $60 will be due by February 24, 2025 and the fi nal payment of $60 will be due by April 28, 2025. Gather at Unity Hall at 8 a.m. and return at 8:30 p.m. Make your deposit now.

September 4, 2025 – Lunch at Shady Maple in Lancaster, PA. Price is $95. Trip includes lunch at Shady Maple with ample time to shop or browse after lunch. We will travel through Lancaster, PA and make two stops for delicious snacks, shopping or just exploring before lunch. We will gather at Unity Hall at 7:30 a.m. and return about 6:30 p.m.

November 13, 2025 – Deck The Halls at American Music Theater in Lancaster, PA; smorgasbord lunch at the newly renovated Hershey Farms. Price: $140. We have Orchestra Center seats reserved for this show. We are collecting a $40 deposit now to reserve your seat, the second payment of $50 will be due by June 16, 2025 and the fi nal payment of $50 will be due by September 15, 2025. Gather at Unity Hall at 8:30 a.m. and return at 7:45 p.m. Make your deposit now.

Deposits will only be refunded if trip is cancelled. Tickets for trips will be on sale on Monday mornings at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road Whiting, from 9 to 11 a.m. For reservations or information, call Rose Kantenwein at 732-408-5441. Make all checks payable to CV3 Travel Club.

Photo courtesy Lakehurst Elementary School life,

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Sta Receive Crisis Training

MANCHESTER – Manchester’s staff members from across the school district participated in Crisis Prevention & Intervention Training (CPI). As mandated by the State of New Jersey, this training allows staff to be prepared and equipped with proven nonviolent strategies to safely defuse a student’s anxious behavior at the earliest possible stage.

The training was provided by inhouse Board Certified Behavior Analyst Adam Silversmith together with Certified Instructor Evelyn Swift and supported by our MTHS Technology Team members.

Thank you to the staff members who work so hard in these areas to ensure our students and staff have a positive learning and growth environment every single day!

Lakehurst

Police Association Holiday Toy Drive

LAKEHURST – The Lakehurst Police Association is currently seeking help from the community and local businesses for our annual Holiday Toy Drive.

Police Officers from the Lakehurst Borough Police Department each year try to make Christmas special for families in need and we could not do it without the generous support of our community and local businesses. Now through December 16 we will be collecting new unwrapped toys.

If you have any questions, wish to donate, or know a family in need, contact Detective Madelyn Poss at 732-657-7812 ext. 204. Anyone who has a need for assistance is asked to fill out the toy drive form, which can be found online at lakehurstpolice. org under the community affairs and events section, and email it to mposs@ lakehurstpolice.org or you may print it out and drop off at police headquarters or pick up a form at police headquarters as well. Donation requests must be in no later than December 16.

We once again, thank you for all of your generosity and continued support!

‘Tunes Of Yesteryear’ At Whiting UMC

WHITING – Whiting United Methodist Church will be hosting “Tunes of Yesteryear” on January 26. Come out for an afternoon of country oldies, from a variety of bands, straight from Albert Hall! Admission is $5 per person, doors open at 12 p.m. (pay at the door). Music from 1 until 5 p.m. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Holiday Meats!

A Little Bit of Italy Around the Corner

VEGETABLES

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

Oven Roasted Potatoes………………………$50

APPETIZERS

Mini Rice Balls...………………………………$35

Mini Sicilian Rice Balls.……………….………$40

Prosciutto Balls..………………………………$40

Hot Buffet

(minimum 20 people)

Potato Croquettes……………………………$40

Holiday A La Carte

Half Tray Serves 10-12 People

PASTAS

Penne Vodka.…………………………………$50

*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)

* Additional $5 per person for Fish or Veal. Comes with dinner rolls only.

All Bu ets on the 23rd or 24th will be prepared for you to reheat. PASTAS

Penne Vodka - Stu ed Shells - Manicotti - Baked Ziti 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

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

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

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• Bookkeeping & Advisory Services

• Tax Representation - Back Taxes & Audit Issues

Ridgeway Elementary School Students Of e Month

MANCHESTER – Congratulations to Ridgeway Elementary School’s students of the month! Hilary Berry is an exceptional 3rd grader! She was new to the country from Haiti last year in second grade and spoke very little English. Since then, she has been working hard to master the English language. She has acquired so much English that she is nearly fl uent and can complete written responses using academic English.

Ryan Appice is a pre-K student who has demonstrated noted progress with sharing his ideas during Circle Time and participating in small group activities. Ryan knows his letters, sounds, colors, and numerals. He is practicing writing his fi rst name with upper and lowercase letters. Ryan shares toys with

his friends and loves to play with blocks or trains. Ryan’s teachers are proud of his hard work and the accomplishments he has accomplished by not giving up and always trying his best.

Whiting Elementary School Students Of e Month

MANCHESTER – Led by Mrs. Boyd and Mrs. Boyd, on a crisp autumn Sunday morning, students, parents, and MTHS NHS members gathered for our fall garden cleanup. Armed with gloves, rakes, and trash bags, they worked side by side, clearing fallen leaves, pulling weeds, and preparing the garden beds for winter. The event not only beautified the school grounds but also fostered a sense of teamwork, leaving everyone with a renewed appreciation for this space. Thank you to all of the Whiting School students of the month who helped to continue and make Whiting School a great and beautiful place to be!

Bingo At Crestwood Village 5

days. Pick your own schedule.

WHITING – Thursday is Bingo day at Crestwood Village 5! Doors open 9 a.m. Bingo sheets start selling at 10:45 a.m. Bingo calling starts at 12:30 p.m.

To all residents: We are in need of volunteers for the following positions:

• Set up crew - tables and chairs are set before and after all functions. Contact Carmine 908-235-2936.

• Bingo caller - 12:30 to 3 p.m. on Thurs-

• Bingo floor walker - 12:30 to 3 p.m. on Thursdays. Verify numbers on winners’ sheets. Pick your own schedule.

• Bingo 50/50 sellers - 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Pick your own schedule.

• Kitchen helpers - all functions that require food service. Pick your own schedule. For more information call: Ronnie 908303-7377.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Police Department Raises Money For Breast Cancer

MANCHESTER – Manchester Police Department is thrilled to announce that, together, they raised an incredible $2,000 for breast cancer awareness through our fundraiser!

A huge thank you to Manchester Township PBA Local 246 for their generous donation, which helped reach this amazing milestone. Your support shows the true spirit of community.

courtesy Manchester

They had the honor of presenting a check for $2,000 to David Caldarella, the founder of David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, an incredible organization dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer. Thank you to everyone who purchased the pink “HOPE” t-shirts and sweatshirts, and to Farro’s Tees for partnering with us. Together, we are making a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

Photo

Police

Manchester School District Gives anks

MANCHESTER – It has been a short but busy week across the Manchester Township School District (MTSD) as schools and departments all over town came together to give thanks to each other and their school communities in many fun ways throughout their school days!

The school district joined at Manchester Township High School on Monday for the final phase of Helping Hands for Hunger. Helping Hands for Hunger has been a community-wide initiative for 16 years. It is a time when everyone comes together to provide Thanksgiving meals confidentially to Manchester school district families who need extra support during the holiday season. Representatives from each school gathered in the MTHS Auxiliary Gym to assemble the 100 food baskets for Manchester School’s families in need. The baskets were made possible by the generous donations from the community. Thank you to all who helped the MTSD to provide support to our school families this holiday!

Manchester Township Middle School began their week with Ms. Stinemire-Tordik and Mrs. Strange’s classes hosting their annual Thanksgiving feast. The staff and students made a shopping list of ingredients and shopped for the meal last Friday at ShopRite. They then prepared and cooked the meal for the last two days for serving to the staff and their fellow classmates. They were joined by 8th grade Mustang Mentors (a social club Mrs. Baumgartner, Mrs. D’Aloisio and Ms. Stinemire-Tordik) to enjoy their meal together. It was a wonderful life and social skills experience for all of the students. Manchester Township Middle School then closed its week with the Third Annual Thanksgiving Shoot-Out Basketball Game! In a game where students vs. staff members, it was a fun and contentious match filled with lots of cheers and laughs. In the end, it was the closest game to date!

Over at Manchester Township Elementary School (MTES), the 6th Annual Day Before Thanksgiving Parade was held! Another great example of how our schools keep the fun in curriculum, this parade featured the hard work of the 3rd grade students who developed, created, and showcased their parade floats to the MTES community. The parade was live streamed to all of the classrooms and began with an official ribbon cutting by Principal Healy and Vice Principal Johnston. The parade mimicked some of the same traditions found in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, kicking off with the turkey float and ending with Santa coming to town! Before students headed back to class, they sang Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer as school mascot Maverick the Dragon danced to their singing.

Whiting Elementary School also held a parade on Wednesday. Their Balloons over Broadway Parade is based on the popular book featuring the puppeteer who invented the giant balloons that float in the Manhattan sky during the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. Whiting’s students recreated the event today complete with a surprise by Santa riding in at the end of their event!

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Manchester Elementary School Students Of e Month

MANCHESTER – Meet Nico Bococinski, Tucker Smith, and Emanuel Hernandez, Manchester Township Elementary School’s (MTES) students of the month. These fourth graders have truly embodied what being an MTES Dragon is all about.

These three students have become shining stars through hard work in school, a positive attitude, and focus.

We are so proud of how far they have come and look forward to how much they will accomplish! Great job! We are proud of you.

Regional Day School Student Of e Month

MANCHESTER – Congratulations to Kwasi Boateng-Asante, Regional Day School’s student of the month! Kwasi comes into school each and every day with a big smile and excitement to learn. He was recently elected as our Student Council Vice President. We are beyond proud of his progress and look forward to further growth this school year.

This month at Regional Day School campaigns and elections were recently

conducted. Congratulations to our newly elected Student Council Cabinet members:

Chris Carter - President

Kwasi Boateng-Asante - Vice President

Devlin Dilauro - Secretary

Joseph Cortes - Treasurer

Marilyn Malcolm - APod Rep

Russell Yesko - BPod Rep

Gabriella Giordano - CPod Rep

Martin Benites - Pre-K Rep

Jack Dreher - Sergeant at Arms

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

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!

2024-2025 Teachers And Educational Service Professionals Of e Year

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08753

732-505-4477 • www.rosegardennj.com

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township School District’s Teachers and Educational Service Professionals were surprised on Friday when Superintendent Diane Pedroza and Director of Student Personnel Services

Alex George visited every building to join Administrators in congratulating the 202425 Teacher of the Year and Educational Service Professional of the Year winners. (Teachers - See Page 22)

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Give Tinnitus Stress

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

e Boot

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.

• 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!

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.

Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).

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Make an appointment online at: clearsolutionsderm.com and chat with a specialist

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

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

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

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.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward. 732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

Crestwood Village 6 New Years Eve Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 6 Residents Club presents News Years Eve Dance – A Magical Winter Night on December 31 from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Music by DJ Billy Phillips. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Catered buffet style dinner, including dessert. 50/50 raffles, and door prizes!

Teachers:

Continued From Page 16

As a part of the New Jersey Teacher of the Year & Educational Service Professional Recognition Program, each school building in Manchester forms a committee that compiles the votes from their colleagues which then determines the two winners per building. The winners will be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Education’s Governor’s Educator of the Year program which recognizes these hardworking teachers and educational services professionals for their dedication to Manchester’s students and their profession.

“Today has been an exceptional day for our district,” shared Superintendent Diane Pedroza. “This morning, I had the honor of surprising and congratulating our 2024-25 Teacher of the Year and Educational Service Professional of the Year recipients - two outstanding groups of educators who truly exemplify our district’s commitment to excellence.

These dedicated individuals were selected by their peers for their unwavering commitment to our students and their tireless efforts to create positive learning environments. As we all know, it takes a village to raise a child, and these recipients are shining examples of our district motto: Excellence by Example.’ Please join me in

congratulating the following educators for their well-deserved recognition:”

Manchester Township High School

Teacher of the Year: Brianna McKiernan

Educational Service Professional of the Year: Clarice Pulcine

Manchester Township Middle School

Teacher of the Year: Robyn Strucki

Educational Service Professional of the Year: Tina DiMatteo

Manchester Township Elementary School

Teacher of the Year: Amy Vasquez

Educational Service Professional of the Year: Monica Gonzalez

Ridgeway Elementary School

Teacher of the Year: Debra Johnson

Educational Service Professional of the Year: Candice Bouillon

Whiting Elementary School

Teacher of the Year: Sarah Drew

Educational Service Professional of the Year: Virginia Guise

Regional Day School

Teacher of the Year: Ellie Hyland

Educational Service Professional of the Year: Jessica Nolan

The Manchester Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Your Weekly Environmental Tip: Are Biodegradable Trash Bags e 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.

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 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.

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

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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)

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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

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• 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.

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Whiting’s Preschool Visited By Cloverdale Parks Expert

school grounds as an extension of their classrooms.

During the Trees Study, students investigated what they already knew about trees and teachers then built on their background knowledge and asked the children, “What do you want to know about trees that you don’t already know?” Our preschoolers then moved through the fall learning all about the parts of a tree, how trees grow and change, what grows on or lives in trees, what things are made from trees, and more!

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township School District’s preschool students are finishing their Trees Study as a part of the Creative Curriculum. This time of year provides such a rich experience for our youngest students to explore nature and utilize our

Students went on nature walks around their school, combined classroom lessons with pumpkin patches, and had a special visit by a Naturalist from Cloverdale Parks. The Naturalist visited all of the Whiting Elementary School’s preschool classrooms to discuss the local trees found in the Ocean County Parks System. Students had the ability to learn from the Naturalist and showcase all that they have been learning in their classes during the Tree Study. It was a great day!

American Polish Club Of Whiting

WHITING – The American Polish Club of Whiting meets the third Wednesday of every month at Deerfield Hall in Crestwood Village VI, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting.

The next meeting will be held on December 18 at 1 p.m.

For more information, contact President Joe Kraska at 732-642-6251.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Celebrate e Season At e 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.

Ocean County Homeless Persons Memorial Service

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County Homeless Persons Memorial Service, to remember our neighbors who have died homeless in the past year, will be held on December 19 at 7 p.m. at True Vine Ministries at First United Methodist Church, 129 Chestnut Street, Toms River.

Donations welcome: gift cards (Wawa, 7-11,

Walmart, Uber, Lyft); non-perishable food; cold weather apparel; blankets; toiletries. In collaboration with Ocean County Homeless Prevention and Assistance Coalition/ Ending Homelessness Group. For more information contact Laurie Singer at 848-223-7284 or outreach.trhhc@gmail. com.

Model Railroaders Winter Open House

LAKEWOOD – The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, at 502 Country Club Road, Pine Park, Lakewood, is holding its Winter Open House, on December 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and December 15 from 12 to 5 p.m. The Model Railroaders are located in the basement of the Lakewood Historical Museum also known as the Sheldon Wolpin Historical Museum. A chair lift that goes to and from the basement is available. Admission is free

but donations are always gladly accepted. Visitors to the Open House will see both modern and traditional trains running continuously on two large operating layouts. Ted Bertiger, president of The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders, said, “We will have trains running for all ages. Come see our model train club in action!”

For more information, contact Ted Bertiger, 732-363-7799 or at captnkraft@aol.com. Also visit ocsmr.com.

Beam Aboard For Holiday Fun

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Santa Claus is beaming down to the Seaside Heights Community Center, 1000 Bay Boulevard, for the December meeting of the STARFLEET –USS Challenger, a Star Trek Science Fiction Fan Club that meets monthly. Visit: usschallenger.org or email BillSchmidt1000@aol.com or call at 732575-6904 for more information. Come join for the next Christmas Party.

The December monthly meeting for this event will be December 21 at 1 p.m. Please bring potluck dish and drinks optional some of us also exchange cookies. Regular monthly meetings are on fi rst Sunday of the month at 1 p.m. Come get a picture with Santa. We will be open to the public and Trekkers and you are very welcome to attend our Christmas Party as well, we are plaining to have a great time with Santa!

Whiting Fire Company Flea Market

WHITING – Whiting Fire Company # 1 will be hosting a Flea Market on December 21 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food available; tables available. Vendors set up at 7 a.m. Call Diane at 732-948-6025.

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!

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

By Bob Vosseller

The Law firm of Dasti & Staiger has a staff of young professionals who are veru familiar with the communities of the Jersey Shore they serve.

Christopher Dasti and Lauren Staiger both live in Ocean County and their office is located on 310 Lacey Road in the Forked River section of Lacey Township.

“Our firm is nearly six years old years old and we have an office here and an annex behind us. We have seven lawyers and five staff members. The majority of our business is representing public entities throughout the state,” Dasti said.

He further explained, “we serve as municipal attorneys to a half a dozen towns, in addition to serving as labor counsel, land use board attorneys, prosecutors, public defenders etc. to dozens more. We opened the firm in 2018 and it was just a secretary and I, then within a year we added two associates.”

“Our first office was maybe 1,000 square feet. It was cozy. Our two associates shared an office. We closed on this office the week before everything shut down from COVID-19 in March 2020,” he added.

Despite the challenges during the period of the pandemic, the law firm survived and thrived. “It worked out well because this used to be a dental surgeon’s office so downstairs the rooms were so chopped up and so I knew we had to rehab the whole downstairs so it worked out because due to Covid, everyone had to work from home anyway so we opened up the upstairs which was redone in April of that year and downstairs. We moved everyone back in August of that year.”

Staiger noted that the annex building was purchased “in January of last year.”

“One of the ways we have grown so much and so fast is that we are ultra responsive to our clients,” Dasti explained.

“We have continued to grow. You want to make sure you don’t grow too fast and all of sudden you are not doing as good of a job. We are young and tenacious and can keep

Attorneys Christopher Dasti and Lauren

Ocean and Monmouth counties and provide legal

and municipalities of the Jersey Shore.

moving forward,” he said.

Dasti noted that among the areas of expertise, the firm covers includes personal injury cases, real estate transactions, estate planning. “We try to cover many different legal disciplines and be a full-service firm.”

“We all have strong ties to the community and a vested interest in staying here and doing a good job, A lot of our team serves on non-profit boards so we all try to be good community partners. It is more than just dollars and cents,” Dasti added.

Staiger said after working for two other firms during her career she got an offer she couldn’t refuse.

“Chris started something really great in 2018 and it continued to grow and he offered me the opportunity to come and I took it.”

“We’ve been friendly and have known each other for a number

of years between work and political things and when he offered me this opportunity, I couldn’t say no. It’s great. We work well together. We have a lot of the same clients and a similar mindset and it has been a great jump for me. I live in Manahawkin so the office is close to home, too,” she added.

“We have a great team of attorneys and staff. We think of our team as a growing family

and have built a team atmosphere,” Dasti added. Members of the legal team also include Brigit P. Zahler who has litigated cases successfully in the Superior Court of New Jersey and the Supreme Court of New York, Jeffrey D. Cheney whose primary areas of focus are civil litigation, personal injury litigation, real estate transactions, public entity law, and land use

and Brian R. Clancy, a Lacey resident who has 25 years of law enforcement experience with the City of Elizabeth police department. His primary focus is land use, municipal court practice, estate planning, real estate and litigation.

Other legal team members include Christopher A. Khatami who has represented numerous public entities at the municipal, county, and state levels and focuses on state and federal court litigation and William J. Oxley, whose primary areas of focus are environmental law, land use, public entity law, and real estate transactions.

Staiger said having worked for other firms and other areas of the state provided her different experiences. “I can say it is more of a family being smaller and we are all kind of doing the same thing and are all in the same age group which helps as well. We all relate to each other on a professional and personal level.”

“You learn how to develop those relationships and they are part of what we do because obviously, times change and one of the things that helps with longevity is not only your professional ability but the interpersonal relationships you develop with your clients,” Staiger said. For further information about Dasti & Law visit their website at DastiLaw.com or call 609549-8990.

Photos By Bob Vosseller

Staiger lead a team of lawyers who reside in

services to residents

The Dasti & Staiger Law office located on 310 Lacey Road in the Forked River section of Lacey Township is the base for a legal firm who handles a wide variety of legal services with a hometown touch.

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

Air purifying gadget

*Genetic lab

Qatari bigwigs

“__ I say more?”

Han who said, “It’s not wise to upset a Wookiee”

[shrug]

Quantity applied to dubious advice, and

in the

__ 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”

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

*Almost got the gold 2 Diminish 3 “Gosh, no one is happy with me!” 4 PC alternative

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

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

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.