Jewish Federation Honors Heroes Against Hate
(L to R) Avi Kotler, Father Michael Lorentsen, Prosecutor
Henry Jackson, Ariel Ifrah, Managing Director of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County Keith Krivitzky and Chairwoman of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County Annabel Lindenbaum (not pictured Chief Gregory Meyer).
By Stephanie Faughnan
TOMS RIVER - The Jewish Federation of Ocean County honored five individuals and one organization for their dedication to combating hate and promoting unity at a special event at the Clarion Hotel. The evening, which celebrated
local “Heroes Against Hate,” was attended by community members, activists, and leaders.
“In recent years, we’ve been honoring local heroes against hate, recognizing that hate, in all its forms, including antisemitism, has been on the up-
swing,” said Jewish Federation of Ocean County Chairwoman Annabel Lindenbaum. “And the best way to counter that is for diverse communities and people to be upstanders and stand up against hate together.”
The recognition aligns (Heroes - See Page 4)
Local Mom Thanks Lifesaving Team After Rare Heart Crisis
By Stephanie Faughnan
BRICK - Eva Maravelias and her husband Brian Wenckebach walked into the conference room at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center (OUMC) in Brick, overcome with emotion. Nearly a year ago, Eva had been wheeled into the hospital, barely clinging to life
after a rare and catastrophic heart condition tore through her arteries. The 45-year-old mother of two returned to the hospital to thank the “first angels” who stabilized her during the most harrowing moment of her life.
The reunion brought together the OUMC’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab team, the air med-
ical flight crew, and a cardiac rehabilitation nurse who helped her recover from spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), a rare and potentially fatal heart condition.
“I couldn’t open my eyes and couldn’t speak to you guys,” Eva recalled, tears welling up. “But in my mind, I was praying. I could
hear your voices, and I knew God was with me. You were all part of my journey.” The reunion was emotional for everyone involved. Eva exchanged hugs, starting with Dr. Arthur Okere, the interventional cardiologist who led her care, the nurses who stayed by her side
(Heart - See Page 6)
Commissioner Quinn Bids Farewell To County O ce
Gary Quinn, seen here being sworn in with family in 2022, chose not to run for re-election in last fall’s general election.
By Bob Vosseller
OCEAN COUNTY – For years Gary Quinn has been a public servant. He’s served on the schoolboard and Lacey Township Committee, county boards and for two terms, as a member of the Board of Ocean County Commissioners but now he’ll be focusing more on family and maybe some Lacey Township interests.
Quinn, a longtime Republican, didn’t run for re-election last year. He and fellow commissioner Barbara Jo Crea did not receive the endorsement of the Ocean County Republican Chairman George Gilmore who instead chose Manchester Mayor Robert Arace and Berkeley Township Board of Education President Jennifer Bacchione, whose husband serves as mayor of Berkeley Township, to take their place on the party ticket.
“It has been 26 years. I was fortunate enough to get involved on the school board and spent five years there. I went on to the governing body in Lacey and then spent the last six years being on the county board,” Quinn remarked.
Quinn was the fi rst to be sworn in as a commissioner after the state retired the title of “Freeholder” on that board making it a Board of Commissioners although the term Freeholder is often mistakenly used out of habit after generations of reference by officials, professional staff and residents.
“Every day we wake up is a blessing,” Quinn said in an interview with Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online.com. Quinn also served on the
(Quinn - See Page 6)
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan
Brad Billhimer, Reisa Sweet, Dr.
Photo by Bob Vosseller
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perfectly with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office’s “Hate Has No Home in Ocean County” campaign, which earlier this year received the Attorney General’s Initiative Award for its success in addressing bias and hate crimes.
Billboards throughout Ocean County serve as a reminder that “Hate Has No Home in Ocean County.” However, when Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer congratulated the various award recipients, he spoke on the significance of the signs, which have been adapted in other areas of the state.
“It’s about sending a clear message to the communities that we want to live in,” said Billheimer. “About how we want to be treated and to treat one another…it’s more than just putting up billboards. It’s our job – and we have a zero-tolerance policy.”
Recognizing Upstanders
Managing Director of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County, Keith Krivitzky, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to combating antisemitism and fostering unity in the community.
“The Jewish Federation is committed to combating antisemitism in our community and elsewhere, and we recognize that this fight is not just about us,” Krivitzky said. “It’s one thing for a particular community or individual to complain that they’re being picked on or bullied or targeted. It’s another when others come to their defense - when
others step up proactively, are the first voices to speak up, and the loudest. When multiple voices rise up, that’s when we can make a difference and really affect change.”
Before transitioning to naming the award winners, Krivitzky credited the Federation’s efforts to stand against hate to partnerships with other groups. These included the Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission, the Center for Holocaust, Human Rights, and Genocide Education (Chhange), and Ocean County College.
St. Junipero Serra Parish
The parish uniquely unites two Roman Catholic churches, specifically Saint Catharine of Siena in Seaside Park and Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Seaside Heights. St. Junipero Serra received the Organizational Upstander Award for its work promoting peace and unity.
Father Michael Gerard Lorentsen, the parish pastor, accepted the award.
“After October 7, the parish showed support for the local community affected by that tragic day, putting up banners calling for peace with Father Michael sharing a message about the deep meaning of shalom,” said Krivitzky. “There are images in the stained-glass windows of the Star of David and the Ark of the Covenant. The church calls the Jewish community their brothers and sisters.
Krivitzky praised the parish’s commitment to fostering interfaith understanding. He said their show of support embodied the idea that hate has no home in the community.
Father Michael said that when the terrible
events of October 7th started the war, it was a terrible and painful reminder of the need for peace in all of the world. He also echoed the words of Pope Francis, who said one could not be a Christian and antisemitic.
“As a Christian community within the Catholic communion,” he added. “We continue to strive to be agents of compassion, charity and humbleness so that all of us can know peace.”
Lakewood Police Chief
Chief Gregory Meyer received the Public Leadership Upstander Award for his efforts to unify Lakewood’s diverse populations. Under his leadership, Lakewood established a coalition that brings together various community groups to address common concerns.
“Lakewood is home to diverse populations that often remain isolated from each other, despite living in close proximity,” Krivitzky said. “Chief Meyer has worked with local community leaders and rabbis to create after-hours programs for young people. He’s also worked to promote understanding and strengthen relationships within the community.”
Meyer’s coalition meets quarterly and has been so successful that other towns have adopted it. Congressman Chris Smith sent a proclamation recognizing Meyer commitment to building bridges in the community.
In an interview after the event, Meyer’s said that his department is also committed to ensuring members of the community are aware of the resources available to them.
“Rather than duplicate efforts, my officers have put together a network of resources within our community,” said Meyer. “Our
department has created an index of groups so that if officers are out on a call and someone needs something, they know where to direct them. We want to give everyone the care they need – whether it’s clothing, food, mental health referrals, or medical help.”
OCC’s Dr. Henry Jackson
Dr. Jackson received an Individual Upstander Award for his leadership in educational initiatives combating hate. He has played a significant role in organizing student leadership conferences at Ocean County College, bringing together over 1,300 students from 29 schools.
“Dr Jackson has been a leader in educating about respect for differences and ways to combat hate in all its forms, including racism, bigotry, and antisemitism,” Krivitzky said. A Gulf War veteran, with an impressive educational dossier, Jackson claimed he was a “bad kid” in his youth. That is, until he showed up for his senior prom in a white tuxedo and witnessed a young man screaming at his date.
Jackson intervened and tried to correct the situation, which unfortunately resulted in a bit of a rumble. Despite his treasured suit changing to black, that prom night stood as a lasting memory and the impetus for his approach towards life and standing up for others.
“From there on, it just became a part of what I did,” said Jackson. “To help people wherever I went.”
Avi Kotler
Avi Kotler, a member of the Orthodox (Heroes - See Page 5)
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Continued From Page 4 community, was honored for his work in building bridges across Ocean County’s diverse communities.
Kotler has been involved in initiatives like the homeless Super Bowl party and the Toms River Rotary Club. He also helped organize participation in the rally for Israel after October 7.
“Avi embodies the idea of bridge building and meeting people where they are, regardless of label,” shared Krivitzky.
Kotler credited his community involvement to a chance encounter with Colin Lewis, a local community activist. He found building bridges with those outside the non-orthodox and non-Jewish communities imperative.
“When we connect in person, we realize we have so much more that unites us than divides us,” Kotler said. “I’ve always preferred working behind the scenes, but seeing the impact of these connections has been rewarding.”
Reisa Sweet
Reisa Sweet, chair of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Human Relations Commission, was recognized for her lifelong commitment to fighting bias and fostering dialogue.
Sweet and her husband marched with Dr. Martin Luther King during the civil rights movement. Krivitsky said that her life is marked by building bridges between people of diverse communities to eliminate hate, bias, injustice and discrimination.
“She is the current chair and longtime member of the Ocean County Human Relations Commission focused on preventing bias crime and encouraging community members,” said Krivitzky. “A major focus has been on how to encourage strangers to engage with each other and start a dialog, to bring people together with different lived experiences, and have them get to know each other, to listen to each other and see their commonality.”
Sweet confessed that her late husband had initiated the joining of Martin Luther King across the bridge. She recalled the days as troublesome and said there were even rumors that a bomb was going to be thrown on the plane they rode.
“You had to write out your will before you went on the plane,” she shared. “Because they didn’t know if the people would be coming back.”
Sweet spoke of the importance of connecting with others as part of the Human Relations Commission. She recalled the “Say Hello” campaign initiated by Reverend Simmons of the group during the pandemic.
“We were in a state of isolation,” said Sweet. “And it was a very difficult time because people were in such fear of spreading anything or talking to anyone.”
People responded positively to messages on buttons that just said, “Say Hello,” and opened a dialogue among strangers.
Ariel Ifrah
A native of Jackson and a Rutgers University student, Ariel Ifrah received the Student Upstander Award for his steadfast activism sup-
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan
Reisa Sweet, chair of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Human Relations Commission, was recognized for her lifelong commitment to fighting bias and fostering dialogue.
porting Israel and combating hate on campus.
In addition to his role in the university’s student government, Ifrah has hosted pro-Israel gatherings on campus and is a member of the Students Supporting Israel. Last summer, Ifrah further demonstrated his commitment by volunteering in Israel.
Krivitsky acknowledged the college student’s accomplishments as no small feat, particularly with the rise of anti-Israel sentiments and antisemitism on college campuses.
“It’s important to encourage and recognize student leaders who stand up for their beliefs and their friends and family in Israel, educating their fellow students,” said Krivitsky. “While also making the statement that hate, bias and double standards have no place on campus.”
Reflecting on his experiences, Ifrah said
that he was spit on when he first started classes at the university – just for being Jewish. He’s been called names, received threatening text messages and faced ongoing hostility. His experiences only strengthen his resolve. Ifrah said he drew inspiration from the Jewish concept of “tikkun olam,” or repairing the world. “To repair the world, you have to take steps as individuals,” he said. “Unfortunately, our world isn’t perfect - we see hate and injustice in the streets, on the news, and on our campuses. But even small actions of courage can make a big impact.” He emphasized that everyone has the power to create change. “We can take these steps, these small actions of courage, these small steps forward to stand up, even a bully in school, just something that may seem so miniscule to you or to other people, can make a really big impact,” he added.
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Pinelands Commission for 11 years having been appointed by former Governor Chris Christie “for what was supposed to be a three-year stint. I just got off it last year when I was replaced by Governor (Phil) Murphy.”
“I’ve had a good run and have had some great support over the years. I am very blessed. I certainly enjoyed it. At the end of the day, it is another chapter in my life. Will I miss it? I will probably miss more so the people. The people we work with, whether it be the town or the county. They are the ones who make it successful and the elected officials look good all the time,” he added.
Quinn noted, “unfortunately, they don’t get the credit that they deserve all the time. I always make sure I point to that and that
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and the flight team that ultimately transported her to Hackensack University Medical Center’s main campus in Hackensack. She also shared stories of joy with the cardiac rehab nurse she worked with at Jackson Health Village.
“We don’t often get to see the end of the story,” the head nurse from the Cath lab admitted. “We stabilize patients, transfer them, and rarely know what happens next. Seeing you here, healthy and smiling, means everything.”
A Sudden Crisis
Two weeks before her life-threatening medical
people understand that the people who sit on those boards - that we aren’t five geniuses - we’re just five individuals who the public gave trust to, to do the right thing.”
“I’ve always tried to follow that path and be independent... If people don’t like what I am doing they have the right to vote me out of office and I am very blessed that I haven’t had that happen,” he added.
“It really has been a good run,” Quinn said. He had put out a press release in February announcing that he would not be running for reelection on the Board of Commissioners. “It was a tough decision to make. When you reach that level and you realize you are being supported not only by your own town but 33 municipalities - when you put it in perspective and see the amount of time you spend to represent 33 towns its hard because in the last two years, I’m out
event in March of 2024, Eva Maravelias experienced a strange feeling she couldn’t quite explain. It wasn’t painful, but it lingered. Busy with work and grieving the recent loss of her mother-in-law, the Toms River mother of two brushed it off.
“I just ignored it,” Eva admitted. “I had so much going on. I didn’t think much of it between work stress and everything at home.”
On the day of her cardiac emergency, Eva’s schedule was as hectic as ever. She had recently returned from Beverly Hills, where she had spent a week opening a new store for her job at Saks Fifth Avenue. The workload and personal challenges weighed heavily on her.
“I think the stress kind of took over,” she said. “That morning, I was working from home. I
at least two to four nights every week and one day on the weekend.”
Quinn recalled, “when I was younger and I first got involved in this stuff it was a little bit different because I missed out on so much for my kids. My kids grew up without me being there for a lot of their activities and now, at this point in my life I have grandkids that I absolutely adore and that is more of a priority to me than being involved in the level of government that I’ve been involved in.”
He recalled advice he received from a former Lacey Mayor who said during his first election, ‘enjoy tonight because moving forward after tonight, every decision you make somebody isn’t going to be happy with.’
“He was spot on. I never regretted it. One thing I’ve always kept in the back of my mind and with all the people I’ve served with, you have to remember it is not our checkbook.
had just finished a conference call with a colleague when I started feeling really strange. I was completely exhausted as if I just needed to sleep. My voice was trailing off as I spoke, and I didn’t realize it, but I was about to pass out.”
“I was lucky enough to at least call up to my husband before I passed out,” Eva said.
“I said, ‘Brian,’ and he heard me.”
Brian ran downstairs to find Eva collapsed on the floor on the lower level of their home. She wasn’t in pain but seemed more tired than anything else. Neither Eva nor Brian could have expected anything to be seriously wrong with her. She was on no medications and was in great health. Eva had only been hospitalized for the birth of their two children.
The checkbook belongs to the people and we have to take that into account and be cautious in how we spend money,” he said.
Quinn expressed, “I hope the new members of the Board of Commissioners take that same path and remember that you don’t go into politics for a career, you go into politics to try and help people and that is how I got involved with this; I decided I wanted to try and help people. I look at government as a business and I think the best people in office are those with experience in having run a business.”
“I have no regrets. I am actually looking forward to the time off. I tell my wife, Linda that time is more valuable to me at this point in my life. You just don’t know how much time you are going to have. I want to spend time with kids, my grandkids and my wife Linda who has been a saint. She’s put through with a lot,” Quinn said.
Eva was rushed to Ocean University Medical Center, where an electrocardiogram initially suggested a heart attack. But when Dr. Okere and his team examined her heart in the cardiac catheterization lab, they uncovered a far more severe issue: spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD).
“All her arteries were torn,” Dr. Okere explained. “This wasn’t just a typical SCAD; it was an extreme case. Her heart was barely functioning. Without immediate intervention, she wouldn’t have survived.”
The Fight To Save Her In a mock, albeit very real, setting at OUMC’s (Heart - See Page 8)
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!
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
$1.95B Autism CARES Act Signed Into Law
From The Desk Of
Congressman Chris Smith
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Comprehensive legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) to provide robust funding and enhanced support for Americans with autism was signed into law.
Smith’s Autism CARES Act of 2024 will provide more than $1.95 billion over five years for programs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
“At CDC, the funding will support ongoing developmental disability surveillance and research; at HRSA, the funding will cover education, early detection and intervention services; at NIH, the funding will drive research as well as the coordination of autism-related activities, including the Inter Agency Coordinating Committee (IACC),” Smith said during debate on the House Floor.
“As the prime author of the Autism Cares Act of 2024 and previous iterations of the law in
2011, 2014, and 2019, I know this legislation will help make a huge difference in the lives of the millions of Americans with autism by providing robust funding for durable remedies as well as effective early detection and intervention services to allow them the highest quality of life possible,” Smith said.
“According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children in the United States - including 1 in 35 children in my home state of New Jersey - are on the autism spectrum,” said Smith.
“My legislation pursues critical research goals and focuses on responsive and effective interventions for the estimated 6.8 million individuals with autism - over 1.8 million, which is 27 percent, of whom are profoundly autistic,” Smith said.
Smith’s bill included Rep. Henry Cuellar (DTX) as the Democrat lead along with 61 other bipartisan cosponsors.
“This bipartisan bill will provide vital funding to expand research and care for Americans with autism,” said Dr. Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “Through this bill, we continue important work in understanding the causes of autism, the best ways to treat autism, and incorporate the voices of those
previously missed by research.”
Smith’s legislation has received strong support from the nation’s leading autism advocacy groups, including Autism New Jersey, Autism Speaks, the Autism Society, the Profound Autism Alliance, and the Association of University Centers on Disabilities.
The Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES) Act of 2024 will:
• Direct the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to research issues encountered by individuals and caregivers as they age, mental health concerns, issues related to aging, as well as co-occurring conditions and needs for supports and services, such as care necessary for physical safety and the prevention of self-injurious behavior;
• Increase the number of NIH Centers of Excellence to seven and ensure research reflects the entire population of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and is designed to address the full range of needs faced by individuals, including to ensure the physical safety and to promote the well-being of all Americans with autism;
• Include, for the first time, a professional bypass budget to provide the autism community with a comprehensive budget highlighting priority research areas and resources needed to advance quality of life improvements for
all individuals with autism; and
• Promote the adoption of assistive communication technologies to improve communications outcomes for those with communication assistance needs.
Smith, who has been a steadfast champion for the autism community for decades, said “it all started in September 1997 with Bobbie and Billy Gallagher from Brick Township and their indomitable commitment to help their two children - Austin and Alanna - and everyone else with autism.”
“We met several times and invited the CDC to Brick only to realize that federal autism programs were woefully inadequate - almost nonexistent,” said Smith, who noted he continues to plan and strategize with the couple to this day.
At Smith’s invitation, federal agencies came to Ocean County for an investigation and found that autism prevalence rates were high not only in Brick, but in nearby communities as well. In response, Smith authored the Autism Statistics, Surveillance, Research and Epidemiology Act, which was incorporated as Title I of the Children’s Health Act of 2000, authorizing grants and contracts for the collection, analysis and reporting of data on autism and pervasive developmental disabilities.
President Urged To Permanently Protect Coastal Waters From Offshore Drilling
Capitol Comments
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), along with Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Andy Kim (DNJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) sent a letter to President Biden urging him to take action under
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Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Dr. Okere provided the details of Eva’s condition. He essentially invoked his inner detective to determine the cause, pointing out aspects of the heart and arteries on the monitor used in the lab.
Eva was on a ventilator and had already suffered cardiac arrest when Dr. Okere first saw her in the emergency room. As part of his evaluation, Dr. Okere looked at the coronary arteries, expecting to see a blockage.
“As it turns out, all of the coronary arteries
the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to protect unleased and at-risk areas of the Outer Continental Shelf from fossil fuel development.
“As you cement your legacy to be the nation’s greatest climate president, we urge you to use your authority designated under 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to permanently withdraw unleased and at-risk areas of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from fossil fuel development. These coastal waters are too economically and ecologically important to drill, and our coastal communities deserve protection
were torn to shreds,” said Dr Okere. “Spontaneous coronary artery dissection happens most in young females in moments of high stress – emotional or physical stress.”
Dr. Okere said that he’d come across SCAD a few times in his career in cases after a woman had just given birth. Most typically, there had been only one vessel involved. Eva’s case was anything but typical – every vessel was torn.
“She just had so many vessels torn, and so many vessels dissected that the damage to her heart was so severe she was definitely going to die if we didn’t intervene,” Dr. Okere explained. Immediate intervention required inserting an
from the known dangers posed by offshore drilling,” the Senators wrote.
The lawmakers stressed that past administrations have used OCSLA authority to protect critical areas and called on President Biden to enact enduring protections that will build off these past actions in order to safeguard additional vital regions and coastal communities. The Senators wrote that “A large-scale withdrawal of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Eastern Gulf from fossil fuel development while maintaining the development of renewable energy solutions would provide durable protections for these critical areas.”
The Senators listed the ongoing and signifi-
Impella device, a small heart pump designed to support the heart’s function. Dr. Okere explained that the device is a catheter inserted through an artery in the groin and guided up to the heart.
“The catheter is placed within the heart chamber, where it pulls blood from inside the heart and pumps it out to the rest of the body,”
Dr. Okere said. “Essentially, it takes over the workload of the heart.”
The catheter is connected to a motor, which powers the mechanism, ensuring blood circulation continues while the heart recovers. However, the extent of Eva’s tears was overwhelming.
cant risks posed by offshore drilling, including catastrophic oil spills, abandoned wells, and hazardous drilling infrastructure that imperil coastal waters, local economies, and public health. Moreover, expanding fossil fuel development would undermine climate commitments and expose American taxpayers to enormous environmental cleanup costs.
“We have long fought for permanent protection from offshore oil and gas drilling for our communities, and for the clean energy future we need. We greatly appreciate your careful consideration of this letter and working to take action to protect our communities for generations to come,” the Senators concluded.
Once stabilized, Eva was airlifted to Hackensack University Medical Center for additional care. Dr. Mark Anderson, chief of cardiac surgery, inserted a larger Impella device to assist with blood flow. After several days, Eva’s condition improved, and she was discharged to begin rehabilitation.
Eva wasn’t present when Dr. Okere explained the details of how her life was saved. However, she did remember hearing those around her as they spoke as they intervened.
“I could hear the nurses saying, ‘She’s so young,’” she recalled. “I wanted to tell them, ‘I’m still here. Don’t give up on me.’”
Senator Cory Booker
Big Project Delivered To HSS Front Office
TOMS RIVER – Back in October, it was revealed that High School South students enrolled in the SPEAR 2 construction course were working on a big project.
The school’s front office was in need of new mailboxes, and the class - under the direction of teacher Tim O’Leary - was able to secure a donation of materials, and the project got underway.
It took more than a marking period and an
incredible amount of work. The shelves were all glued and biscuit joined. The finish work included paint, stain, and polyurethane.
Recently, students delivered a fi nished project to the front office, and just in time for the holidays, when mail is pretty important.
“The kids are incredibly proud of what they were able to accomplish,” said O’Leary.
“I’m looking forward to these kids doing more great things in the future!”
Toys For Children’s Pediatric Cancer Unit In Toms River
LONG BEACH – For the past three years, The Garden Club of Long Beach Island has sponsored a toy drive at their Holiday Luncheon, in support of the Ship Bottom Police Department.
This year, the sponsorship was for the RWJ BARNABAS Children’s’ Specialized Hospital, in Toms River. The event, which was held at Calloways in West Creek, NJ, was an extraordinary success.
The Club’s members responded to the request by donating an overwhelming number of toys and gifts. Most members brought
multiple items and one donated five! Due to the large volume of toys received, a text went out to Officer Holloway prior to his arrival at the event that stated, “You’re gonna need a bigger truck!” His reply back was an elated, “Oh boy!”
Thanks went out to The Garden Club ladies for responding to this request to bring some cheer to local pediatric cancer patients and their families during the holiday season. Those wishing to individually donate to this worthy cause, now or in the future, may visit the link at events.childrens-specialized.org.
Create Your Own Puzzle Workshop
TOMS RIVER – Create your own puzzle workshop with Toms River Artist Community on January 25 at 10 a.m. at the Toms River Youth Services, 1505 North Bay Avenue.
All ages welcome. Cost is $34 per person. Register at register.communitypass. net/tomsriver. For more information, call 732-341-1000 ext. 8414.
Winter Yoga Classes
TOMS RIVER – Toms River Recreation presents: Winter Yoga Classes with Pure Wellness & Yoga Studio!
Classes are held on Mondays from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. from January 20 to March 10, as well as Wednesdays from 12 to 1 p.m. from January 22 to March 12.
All classes in both sections will take place at the Youth Services building. The cost to register is $45 per program, which includes all classes within the chosen section.
Visit register.communitypass.net/tomsriver to register today! For more information call Toms River Recreation at 732-341-1000 ext. 8414.
Photo courtesy Toms River Schools
DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES
DIRECT CREMATION $1875
Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Local Hospital, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory
Police Raise Funds Th rough “No Shave” Campaign
Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certified Copies Of Death Certificates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services
ISLAND HEIGHTS – The Island Heights Police Department is proud to announce the completion of our annual “No Shave November” fundraising effort, this year extended through December!
In 2024, we teamed up with the Seaside Heights Police Department for this meaningful initiative, raising funds and awareness to support a courageous cause.
This year, we dedicated our efforts to Brielle, a brave one-year old girl from our community who is battling acute myeloid leukemia. Together, we’ve raised proceeds to assist Brielle
courtesy Island Heights Police and her family as they navigate this challenging journey.
We invite you to join us in supporting Brielle by contributing to her GoFundMe campaign through the safe link below. Every dollar makes a difference, helping this family focus on what matters most: standing by Brielle as she fights this battle with courage and strength.
Thank you for helping us show Brielle and her family the love and support of our amazing community. Together, we can make a difference.
Donate at: gofundme.com/f/support-brielles-fight-against-leukemia.
Winter Wonderland Watercolor Painting Class
TOMS RIVER – Winter Wonderland Watercolor Painting Class with Leona Lavone of Ocean County Artists Guild will be on January 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Toms River Youth Services Arts & Crafts Room,
1505 North Bay Avenue.
Learn techniques to depict frosty trees, snow covered fields, and the soft glow of winter light. Cost is $40 and includes materials. Register at register.communitypass.net/tomsriver.
Marine Science Mondays
TOMS RIVER – Marine Science Mondays with Marine Science Camp. Take a deep dive into the natural wonders in our own backyard.
Kids in grades K to 8, Mondays in Febru-
ary, 6:16 to 7:15 p.m. at Toms River Youth Services, 1505 North Bay Avenue, Toms River. Cost is $104 for all four sessions. Register at register.communitypass.net/ tomsriver
The Toms River Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!
Photo
Bus 180 Serves As Polar Express
of Santa Claus one morning, bringing many smiles to Cedar Grove students and their families. Now that’s some Christmas spirit.
Cultivate Your Culinary Capability
ISLAND HEIGHTS – Love to experiment in the kitchen? Love whipping up scrumptious dishes for family and friends? Love broadening your cultural horizons in the tastiest ways? Share your passion in the next meeting of the Cookbook Club at the Ocean County Library Island Heights Branch, 6:30 p.m. on January 20.
Now in its second year of inspiring the Master Chef in every member, the Cookbook Club meets on the third Monday of every other month.
Trustees of the Island Heights Library and
staffers pore through recipe compilations and choose a new one for each meeting. Select a recipe and bring your creation to the next meeting. Members discuss the recipes, ingredients, techniques, the book, the author and what they’ve learned while enjoying their gourmet “potluck dinner.” Register at tinyurl.com/OclIHCook for this free program. For more details, stop by the OCL Island Heights Branch, 121 Central Avenue or call 732-270-6266. See the full schedule of programs in the Library’s online Calendar of Events.
Toms River PBA Hands Out Gift s To Patients
TOMS RIVER – Toms River PBA had 14 officers, dispatchers, and support staff join Santa at Children’s Specialized Hospital’s outpatient and long-term care facilities in Toms River to hand out bags of toys while
spreading well-deserved positive holiday cheer.
This has been an annual event for over 12 years and it is the most anticipated event for our officers each year.
SUN. JAN. 26 WIND CREEK CASINO $45. BETHLEHEM, PA. LOTS OF NEW GAMES! OUR GUESTS RECEIVE $30. SLOT PLAY. MAR. 22-24 3 DAY WASHINGTON D.C. $559 ENJOY A SPRING WEEKEND DURING CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON FEATURING VISITS TO: CAPITOL BUILDING, LINCOLN, VIETNAM AND KOREAN WAR MEMORIALS; MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM, AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM, ARLINGTON CEMETARY AND MUCH MORE! INCLUDES 2 NTS. HOTEL, 2 BREAKFASTS, 1 DINNER.
THURS. MAY 8 “NOAH” SIGHT & SOUND THEATER $175 LANCASTER, PA. INCLUDES LUNCH AT SHADY MAPLE SMORGASBORD AND MAIN FLOOR SEATS.
SUN. JUNE 29 N.Y. YANKEES VS. A’s MAIN LEVEL SEATS. $149 $149.
SEPT. 7-10 4 DAY CAPE COD & NANTUCKET ISLAND $949 GUIDED TOURS OF HYANNIS, PROVINCETOWN, NANTUCKET ISLAND. PLUS VISIT THE HISTORIC WHALING VILLAGE OF NEW BEDFORD. INCLUDES 3 NTS. HOTEL, 6 MEALS, ATTRACTION ADMISSIONS. OUTSTANDING END OF SUMMER GETAWAY.
SEPT. 28-OCT. 1 4 DAY NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA $799. GUIDED NIAGARA AREA TOURS FEATURING THE FALLS, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, WINERY TOUR AND TASTINGS, AND MUCH MORE. INCLUDES 3 NTS. HOTEL, 5 MEALS. GREAT PACKAGE. P.O. BOX 1991 • TOMS RIVER, N.J.
TOMS RIVER – “Next stop, the North Po--- errr, Cedar Grove!” Mr. Steve, driver of Bus 180, played the part
Photo courtesy Toms River Schools
Orchestra, Choir, Jazz Band Make Holidays Bright
Come
EPA Financial Services
Email: Heather@epafinancial.com 732.286.1000 www.epafinancial.com Like us on Facebook! 2040 US Highway 9 • Toms River, NJ 08755
TOMS RIVER – Every year, the most anticipated holiday event of the season for those who work in the district’s business offices at 1144 Hooper Avenue is when high school musicians visit to perform holiday songs.
High School North’s orchestra and jazz band, along with High School East’s choir, got the job done, making the holi-
Photo courtesy Toms River Schools
days that much brighter through the gift of beautiful music.
High School South, meanwhile, has been on the holiday circuit. Its choir performed in the Ocean County Library atrium during the township’s annual tree lighting, signing their rendition of “That’s Christmas to Me” by Pentatonix.
East Graduate Returns To Talk Journalism
TOMS RIVER – Jamie Pschorr, 1997 graduate of Toms River East High School and TV21, is now executive producer of the evening news shows on
Photo courtesy Toms River Schools WPVI 6 out of Philly. She returned to East to speak to Raiders in the TRSTV broadcast journalism program about her career experience.
EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!
C ommUnitY n eWS
Firefi ghters Graduate From EMT School
courtesy Toms River Fire Dept., Company #1 Fire Academy Milan “Spike” Baron award for academic excellence during his initial fi refighter training.
TOMS RIVER – On behalf of Chief Uffer and Asst. Chief Weingroff, Toms River Fire Dept., Company #1 is thrilled to congratulate Firefighter Joey Genovese (Station 25) and Christian DeEsposito (Station 30) on their graduation from EMT school!
Joey being a 2nd Generation Genovese where as his father is Ex-Chief of our department has been a dedicated member of Station 25 from the beginning of his fi refighting career, earning the Toms River
Christian, a valued member of the Pleasant Plains Fire Department and a Fire Inspector with the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention, has also achieved this significant milestone.
We are incredibly proud of both of you and wish you the best of luck on the National Registry EMT Exam.
Undefeated TR Hockey Takes Holiday Tourney Title
TOMS RIVER – From its first game together as one district team - an 8-1 win - Toms River hockey has not slowed down. The squad is currently 10-0, and coming off of a victory at the Winding River Holiday Tournament, beating Ocean Township-Shore-Monmouth in the final, 5-1.
Goalie David Gawalis was named tournament MVP, with 77 saves across his team’s three tourney wins. In the final, Joseph Taliercio scored twice and tallied an assist, leading another impressive offensive effort. Junior forward Brady Verdon notched his 100th career point during the tournament as well.
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 732850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9.a.m to 4 p.m.
To apply online as a blood drive volunteer, go to: volgistics.com/appform/2127944197.
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!
Photo
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)
Shepherd Others To Better Hearing
Are you someone who has experienced the care our practice provides? Have you acknowledged your hearing issues, fought back, and won? If so, you now have the opportunity to assist someone else on their journey to better hearing and whole-body health. Want to be a hero? Here’s how you can shepherd someone into the process and support them along the way:
Start the Conversation - The stigma is real. Begin by having an open and compassionate discussion about hearing health issues. Share your own experiences and the benefits you’ve experienced from addressing your own hearing issues. This can help reduce the stigma and fear often associated with getting treatment (like wearing hearing aids).
Encourage Professional Help - Suggest they schedule an appointment with us. Assure them you know a great hearing care professional and offer to accompany them on their first visit. Your support makes the process less intimidating.
Be Patient and Understanding - Understand that acknowledging one’s own hearing issues, and seeking help for them, can be a gradual process. Provide continuous
encouragement, emphasizing the positive changes they can expect.
Provide Educational Resources - Share articles, brochures, or online resources about hearing loss and its impact. Helping them learn the importance of hearing health can motivate them to take action. Keep It Up - Continue to check in on their progress and offer assistance. Celebrate their milestones, no matter how small, and remind them of the benefits they’ll enjoy with improved hearing health.
By guiding someone through this process, you give the gift of a better life. Your empathy, encouragement, and practical support can make all the difference in helping them take the first steps toward better hearing health. Your journey can inspire someone else to take control of their hearing health. Let’s work together to improve lives. Help a friend schedule an appointment to address their hearing health today.
Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with honest answers about your hearing health care. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com We Hear You and 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!
Dear
Pharmacist
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Healing Naturally: Managing Medication Side Effects & Chronic Conditions For A Healthier You
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Happy New Year 2025! Let’s welcome a fresh start with a renewed focus on health and wellness. Medications are often crucial for managing chronic conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or digestive issues. However, their long-term use can sometimes result in side effects. As a pharmacist and natural health advocate, I want to share simple, complementary strategies to help you feel your best while sticking to your treatment plan.
Analgesics are among the most commonly used medications, prescribed to manage a wide range of chronic pain conditions such as headaches, lower back pain, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and neuropathy. Let’s start with those: Painkillers, particularly opioids, can lead to constipation. Natural remedies like magnesium citrate, fiber-rich foods such as flaxseeds and chia, and prunes can help maintain regularity. Staying hydrated and sipping herbal teas like senna or peppermint offers occasional relief.
Antibiotics can disrupt gut health, causing bloating or diarrhea. High-quality probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi replenish beneficial bacteria. Saccharomyces boulardii is especially useful for antibiotic-related diarrhea. Be sure to time probiotics two hours apart from antibiotics for the best results.
For heart health, people take statin drugs to lower cholesterol. I’m not advocating any medications because I prefer to improve heart function with diet and exercise, but I’m aware many of you take these drugs and worry about cardiovascular health. So I’d suggest omega-3 fatty acids taken daily to reduce inflammation while simultaneously improving cholesterol. A critical supplement is CoQ10 which helps counteract statin-in-
duced muscle pain and mood concerns. Garlic and supplement of garlic also support cardiovascular function.
What about arthritis: Arthritis sufferers can turn to turmeric for inflammation, Boswellia for joint comfort, and collagen to improve flexibility. Do you take NSAIDS like ibuprofen? Drugs like this reduce the B vitamin “folate” so you should supplement what the “drug mugger” steals. If you take NSAIDS daily, and have taken them for years, you could be short on this B vitamin and develop fatigue, weakness, short of breath, depression, mouth sores, and irritability. It can be solved with proper supplementation of the right type of folate. If you’re interested in a deeper dive into this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comprehensive blog on my website at suzycohen.com
The most commonly reported side effects from medications is nausea and diarrhea. So if you experience digestive issues from a medication you take, soothing remedies like L-glutamine, crystallized ginger, aloe vera juice, and marshmallow root can reduce problems such as these and other types of stomach upset. Probiotics play a vital role in soothing the gut, supporting neurotransmitter production, and promoting a healthy balance of beneficial microbiota.
When incorporating supplements, safety comes first. Choose reputable brands, follow dosages carefully, and always discuss new additions with your doctor to avoid interactions. Combining modern medicine with natural remedies can enhance your wellness journey, reduce dependence on pharmaceuticals, and help you achieve a balanced, vibrant life. Here’s to a healthier, happier 2025 where you take charge of your health, naturally.
(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2024 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.
Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).
THERAPIES/SERVICES
• Hormone Replacement • IV Therapies • Thermascan
• Cryoskin
HOCATT • Colonics
PEMF • Salt Room/Halotherapy • Theta Chamber • Ozone
Botox • Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management • Peptides
AroUnD the JerSeY Shore
One Book OCL Bonding Over Robyn Carr’s “The Friendship Club”
TOMS RIVER – Want to start 2025 with a relatable romance novel that you can discuss with book lovers everywhere? The next One Book OCL Online Book Club selection is Robyn Carr’s newest, “The Friendship Club.” The virtual interactions will begin January 3 and continue through March 7.
One Book OCL, in partnership with PBC Guru, is the Ocean County Library’s free virtual reading club for patrons and the community. Club members exchange ideas and network in a private forum. Library membership is not required. Cardholders can borrow or download discussion books for free in print, audiobook and eBook formats through the OCL Catalog, Libby/ Overdrive and hoopla.
“The Friendship Club” brings together four women at crossroads in their lives.
Celebrity TV host Marni McGuire, with two marriages behind her, claims to be fine on her own. So does her co-producer Ellen.
Marni’s expectant daughter Bella, a lawyer, travels a rocky relationship road. The show’s young intern Sofia becomes involved with a domineering partner. Soon, all four women find themselves carving paths through the forest of dating, marriage, loneliness and love – individually and collectively.
Robyn Carr’s mixture of tenderness, humor and drama has generated sales of 27 million copies of her novels, with translations into 19 languages in 30 nations. Eleven of them topped the New York Times bestseller list. In 2016 the Romance Writers of America awarded Robyn their Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award. She has legions of followers on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.
Register at pbc.guru/OneBookOCL to join the bibliophiles in the One Book OCL Online Book Club. For more information, stop by any of the Library’s 21 branches and reading centers or visit the OCL website.
County Ensure Home Delivered Meals Will Be Provided For Seniors
TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners recently awarded key contracts that provide home delivered and congregate site meals for seniors living in the County.
delivered meal drivers provide much more than food. They provide peace of mind for many of our seniors and are often the fi rst to identity and report changes in the consumer’s health or well-being.”
A large percentage of the meals are prepared daily in the kitchen at the Ocean County Southern Service Center in Stafford Township and delivered across the County.
“Our home delivered meal program functions as a lifeline for thousands of senior citizens living in Ocean County that may be homebound or unable to cook for themselves or simply can’t get to a store to purchase food,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea, chairwoman of the Office of Senior Services. “The elderly who are having a hard time making ends meet can at least be secure in knowing they will have a meal delivered to them every day.”
In addition, the Board awarded a $1.4 million contract to Lakewood Community Service Corp. also for home delivered meals, congregate site meals for seniors and other senior programs.
The Board awarded a $3,534,008 contract to Community Services Inc., to provide home delivered meals, congregate meal services and other programs for the elderly. Under the Community Services Inc. contract for the New Year, the County anticipates providing more than 264,000 home delivered meals to 1,400 clients. An additional 8,700 congregate meals will be provided at the senior nutrition sites throughout the County.
“The home delivered meal is much more than just a meal delivery,” Crea said. “It’s so important because in some instances this is the only contact some of our seniors have with someone during the day. It’s a health check, it’s a safety check. The home
“We anticipate that Lakewood Community Service Corp will provide more than 61,000 meals in 2025,” Crea said. “In addition we look forward to the opening of their new congregate meal site where it is anticipated more than 4,000 meals will be served to our seniors.”
Each of these contracts also provides services to seniors that include socialization and recreation programs, outreach, and caregiver support groups and counseling.
“We have more than 200,000 seniors living in Ocean County, more than any other County in New Jersey,” Crea said. “It’s a priority of the Board to provide services and programs for our seniors that will help them to continue to live independently and with a good quality of life. It is the least we can do for the generations that have done so much for us.”
photo oF the WeeK
New Year everyone!! This photo was taken by one of our favorite photographers, Kylie Monica, on a Jersey Shore beach. We hope you all have a great new year. If you want to see your photo featured in this section, email it to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!
Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.
Happy
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Types Of Business Entities
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
Real estate investors may seek to invest with other persons. This can be done informally, without any written documentation or formally. If done informally, it may lead to problems later if the parties have disagreements about the investment or if outside factors intervene. It is best to establish the rights and obligation of the parties at the outset so that all of the parties know what is expected of them and what they can expect from the investment. There are three basic forms of business entities to be considered in real estate investing. They are: Partnerships, Corporations, and Limited Liability Company (L.L.C.)
PARTNERSHIPS. - A partnership is two or more individuals. A partnership may be informal (no written agreement) called a de facto partnership or it may be by way of a written partnership agreement.
ADVANTAGES
1. Easy to set up.
2. Favorable tax treatment. Income to the partnership is passed on to the individual partners and taxed as income to them.
DISADVANTAGES
1. No liability protection. Creditors can go after the assets of the partners jointly and severably.
2. Acts of one partner affects other partners.
3. Marketability of interest may be an issue.
corporation but cannot go after the assets of the individual shareholders.
2. Good marketability of shares.
DISADVANTAGES
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
1. Harder to set up than a partnership. Documents must be filed with the State.
2. Double tax treatment. Income to the corporation is taxed to the corporation and then taxed to the shareholder when it is distributed. (Subchapter S corporation may prevent this)
3. There are many filings on an annual basis, which increases annual costs.
CORPORATIONS - A corporation is a legal entity created by filing a certificate of incorporation with the State. The individual owners are the shareholders, and their interest is reflected by the number of shares they each own. Generally, there is no other written agreement between the shareholders to commence the corporation. Corporation is taxed on its own.
ADVANTAGES
1. Liability protection. Creditors can sue the
4. May need additional documents to establish relationships between shareholders.
(Example: Buy-Sell Agreements)
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES
- An LLC is formed by filing a Certificate of Formation with State and it may have one or more members. A Member’s interest is established with an Operating Agreement. The Operating Agreement outlines the relationships between the Members. Income is passed through to Members like a partnership.
ADVANTAGES
1. Liability protection like a corporation. Creditors cannot go after assets of members.
2. Favorable tax treatment. Like partnerships, income is passed on to partners. No double taxation.
3. Easier marketability of membership interest if that is what the parties want.
4. Less annual filings than a corporation.
5. Operating agreement sets forth the relationship between the parties. No need for additional documents.
DISADVANTAGES
1. More complicated to set up than a partnership.
Learn Your NJ Workplace Rights
TOMS RIVER – When medical issues, caretaking matters or personal traumas arise, New Jersey wage earners have options to manage work-life balance. Learn “Your Rights as a Worker in New Jersey: An Overview of NJ Family Leave and Temporary Disability Insurance” at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, 7 p.m. on January 9.
Natalie Rodriguez, TDI/FLI Bilingual Program Specialist of the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance, will lead this informative program in the Home Town Dairy Room. The workshop will provide an overview of program eligibility requirements, offer coverage details, and explain the application process. A question-and-answer session
will follow
New Jersey Family Leave insurance may be applicable if you are caring for a loved one with a developmental disability, who is elderly, or who has a physical impairment or serious health issue; if you are bonding with a newborn, new foster child or newly adopted child; or if you are coping with matters related to sexual or domestic abuse. New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance may be an option if you are simultaneously balancing work and recovery from your own illness, injury or surgery.
Register at tinyurl.com/OclTrRights to attend this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, call 732349-6200 or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.
Radiothon Raises $128,483 For JBJ Soul Kitchen
FREEHOLD – WWZY 107.1 The Boss hosted its 7th Annual Mistletoe Rock Radiothon to benefit JBJ Soul Kitchen, a non-profit community restaurant, run by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. The fundraiser was presented by Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 9 of Central Jersey and powered by Hutchins HVAC. It took place on December 6 with simultaneous live broadcasts from Freehold Raceway Mall and JBJ Soul Kitchen locations in Red Bank and Toms River. This year’s campaign raised another $56,252 for the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation ($128,483 cumulatively), which will help to provide more than 2,812 meals to those in need.
JBJ Soul Kitchen seeks to provide locally sourced, three-course meals to both paying customers and guests facing food insecurity in a warm and welcoming restaurant setting. Since opening, the organization has served over 196,000 meals through its unique PayIt-Forward model. Guests pay the suggested donation for their meal and can choose to make an additional donation to help provide a meal for someone who is unable to pay. All are welcome, regardless of their ability to donate.
107.1 The Boss’s “Robby and Rochelle in the Morning” kicked off the radiothon at 6am LIVE from Freehold Raceway Mall and were followed by Michele Amabile, Cane Peterson, and various 107.1 The Boss on air personalities who broadcasted live from the mall and JBJ Soul Kitchen’s Red Bank and Toms River locations throughout the day. Interviews were conducted with New Jersey’s very own Jon Bon Jovi, Dorothea Bongiovi, volunteers, and patrons of
JBJ Soul Kitchen, all who shared their touching stories and mission of JBJ Soul Kitchen in their communities, and more.
“I’d like to thank all the listeners who tuned in and donated”, said Dorothea Bongiovi, Founder of JBJ Soul Kitchen. “I want to thank the wonderful staff of 107.1 The Boss and our sponsors. Our radiothon is a powerful testament to the generosity and spirit of community that defines JBJ Soul Kitchen. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share the work of our small but mighty organization, and the impact we have in our community even as we see our in-need population increase, many of whom work, but are unable to make ends meet.”
“Thank you to our team for an outstanding job and to the JBJ Soul Kitchen crew for their partnership. And most especially our listeners and advertisers for their amazing support! Humbled and grateful.” said Robby Bridges, VP of Programming and co-host of Robby and Rochelle in the Morning.
Generous 107.1 The Boss listeners donated in person at all three broadcast locations, via the AJ Perri Phone Bank, and through the New Jersey Natural Gas Online Donation Center. $107+ donors were dubbed “Partners in Soul” and received a commemorative t-shirt with select shirts autographed by Jon Bon Jovi as a gift for their support of the organization, made possible by Builders General Supply Company. All in-person donors received a delicious “Boss” cookie courtesy of Chocolate Carousel in Wall. Donors and auction bidders vied for a Jon Bon Jovi autographed guitar, Five night stay at a
vacation home in the Reunion Resort in Kissimmee, Florida, Tickets to any 2025 New Jersey Devils Home game, Photo session with celebrity photographer Jessielyn Palumbo, Jon Bon Jovi autographed Decoupage guitar, 14k white gold diamond necklace from Earth Treasures, Two night stay at the Hotel Edison in New York City, Party suite tickets to see Blake Shelton, Jon Bon Jovi autographed collector’s edition Monopoly, Vintage t-shirt autographed by Jon Bon Jovi, Ticco Torres, David Bryan & Richie Sambora, Lunch with Dolores Cantania of the Real Housewives of New Jersey, gourmet dinner for four from celebrity Chef Covas, Jon Bon Jovi autographed “tour used” road case, Party suite tickets to see Sebastian Maniscalco, New York Jets tickets to a game in 2025, Portrait session with Marconi Photography, and flight lessons from Monmouth Jet Center.
Stage. On-site donations were also collected for JBJ Soul Kitchen. The evening ended with a “big check” presentation by 107.1 The Boss on-air personalities to the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation and JBJ Soul Kitchen, featuring the total amount raised by the campaign to date.
The 7th Annual Mistletoe Rock Radiothon was also made possible by Irwin Lincoln & Irwin Mazda, NJR Home Services, Brightside Branding, At Home Recreation, Rotem Dental, Joe Leone’s Catering, Gellman Images, Saltwater House, Hampton Water, Lori Donnelly from Weichert Realty, Tara Coffman from New York Life, and Basie Center for the Arts.
The fundraising efforts culminated on December 11 at the Mistletoe Rock After-Party, hosted by Bar Anticipation in Lake Como. The party was headlined by “Nine Deeez Nite, the Tribute to the 90’s” on the Earth Treasures Fine Jewelers
Since its inception, the 107.1 The Boss Mistletoe Rock Radiothon has raised over $241,000 for local charitable organizations at the Jersey Shore. For more information about the Mistletoe Rock Radiothon, its partners, or how to still donate, email info@PressCommRadio.com.
Photo courtesy Press Communications
For Rent
Adult Community - Whiting Crestwood Village 5 (55+). 2 BD, 1 BA, washer/dryer, garage, porch. No pets. No smoking. $1,600/ month, plus utilities. 732-8641419. Cell 732-604-0323. (6)
Mobile For Sale
Mobile Home - 3 BR, 1 1/2 BA, furnished, W/D, 2 garage. On 12 acres. Hunting get away. All furnish Susquehanna, PA. 732-372-2452. 732-675-2092. $160,000, B/O. (4)
Real Estate
Trusted Local Home BuyersWe buy houses, any condition. A+ reviews. Get a fair cash offer today. Call 609-699-3767. (8)
Items For Sale
Entry & Intermediate Banjos, Keyboards, Acoustic & Lapsteel Guitars. Ocean County Resident. Call Mike at
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)
CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)
Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)
Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc.
Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
Help Wanted
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)
CLASSIFIEDS
Services Help Wanted
Part Time House Cleaner NeededVaries week to week. Must be reliable and willing to work. Must have reliable transportation. Pet friendly. Trustworthy. Serious Inquires only. Call Donna 732-330-5916. (5)
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)
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)
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)
Services
ADVANCED BUILDING - HOME IMPROVEMENTS/REPAIRS • CARPENTRY • TRIM• FLOORING • BATHROOM AND KITCHEN UPGRADES• DECKS• DOORS• WINDOWS • TILE• MASONRY• SIDING • PAINTING• ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • AND MORE• HOURLY RATES FOR SMALL JOBS• LICENSED • INSURED • GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP • CALL 609-384-9030 EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE • SENIOR AND VETERAN DISCOUNTS. (50)
Avon Sales - Eyeliner, eye shadow, perfume, men's cologne. Call for a brochure 732-330-4189 or 848287-3944. If you are interested in selling Avon contact 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944. (t/n)
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)
CAR SERVICE - Specializing in Newark and Atlantic City Airports, Point Pleasant and Bay Head Train Station. Call Kevin 727-396-7820. (8)
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)
"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)
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)
APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7)
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)
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 732500-3063 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)
Senior Campanion CaregiverRetired RN. Meal prep, transport to appointments, shopping, showering, light housekeeping. Contact Chris 845-430-1853. (48)
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)
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)
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)
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)
CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
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
2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.
You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.
Calculate Price As Follows:
3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $
order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.
Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:
Cardholder Signature: Print Name:
Address:
If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203.
Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication)
O+ And O- Donors Urgently Needed
NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) has issued an urgent call for type O+ and O- blood donations. This dangerous shortage is impacting local hospitals and part of a disturbing national trend, with Type O shortages reported across the U.S. The current inventory of type O blood is the lowest it’s been since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Further complicating this shortage is a recent surge in blood usage. In the past several days, seven massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) have occurred across the region. MTPs involve administering 10 or more units of blood to a patient within 24 hours but can often require
50 or more lifesaving blood products per patient, placing tremendous strain on the blood supply.
Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.
In addition, the region continues to struggle with the challenges that often accompany the summer months. Seasonal travel, school breaks, and a rise in traumatic accidents during the summer
months often strain the blood supply and lead to shortages. NJBS is calling on all individuals with Type O blood to make an immediate donation.
“We are appealing to our community to step up and donate blood, especially those who are type O. The summer months are always a challenging time for the blood supply, but we are currently experiencing an even lower level of this crucial blood type than at the start of the pandemic,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New Jersey Blood Services. “Following the recent surge in blood usage, our local inventory is critically low, and we need immediate support to ensure that every patient
receives the lifesaving care they need.”
NJBS hosts daily blood drives and operates 19 area donor centers to reach donors and meet local hospital needs. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc. org or call 800-688-0900.
To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org Can’t donate blood? You can still support NYBC’s mission by texting ‘NYBC’ to ‘20222’ to give $25.
AroUnD the JerSeY Shore
Santa Beams Down To Jersey Shore
JERSEY SHORE – Members of the USS Challenger gather with their special guest Santa Claus and two guests from their sister chapter the USS Sovereign based in Philadelphia, during the Star Trek/Science Fiction Fan Club’s Pot Luck Holiday
Party held in Seaside Heights. For more information on the club’s activities and meeting schedule visit usschallenger.org or e-mail usschallengerco@gmail.com or check them out on their Facebook page, USS Challenger.
Application has been made to receive title papers authorizing and the issuance of a New Jersey certification of ownership for a 1978 Trojan with HIN TRJ085960678261 in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:10-16. Objections should be made in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.
Photo courtesy USS Challenger
The Tropical Forests Are Home To These Colorful Birds
By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
In the early 1500s, specimens of these birds were brought to Europe. Some people thought the Bird of Paradise was a myth. Native language called them ‘birds of God,’ which is where the name ‘bird of paradise’ came from. These birds live in the tropical forests in Australia and surrounding islands like New Guinea and Indonesia. They survive in dense jungles and forests, where their population is unknown. In fact, some species are threatened. Mostly types are sexually dimorphic, where males and females differ in appearance. There are approximately 45 different types of these birds. While males sport long, brightly colored feathers from their heads, beaks, wings or tails, the female’s colors are muted - bearing short feathers. The males use their colorful plumage in mating dances to attract the attention of a female. They often housekeep their ‘dance floor’ by removing twigs, leaves, and other debris, before beginning their rhythmic dance display. It could take as long as seven years for them to reach adult maturity. Their lifestyle is a solitary one, not living in groups. Considered omnivores, they prefer
dense vegetation where they find fruit, seeds, berries, and insects. Their lifespan is anywhere from 5 to 8 years. While mostly thought of as small birds, with a wingspan as small as just over 7 inches, the larger birds can have wingspans of just over 47 inches.
These birds are elusive and not easy to spot in the wild. In fact, visitors are discouraged from entering their living space. Instead, if travelers are interested in seeing these birds, there are easily accessible zoos, as well as parks, where they can be viewed in their aviary (enclosure) as they feed and fly around their rainforest habitat.
The female lays one or two eggs and will raise her chicks without the assistance of the male. The conservation status of these birds depends on the species, but it is safe to say that they need conservation efforts to protect them.
I gathered 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.
AroUnD the JerSeY Shore
“Ocean County Library’s Centennial Is Here And You’re
Why We’re Celebrating”
TOMS RIVER – Get ready for fun and memorable moments throughout 2025 as the Ocean County Library marks its 100th birthday. Celebrations will unfold at all 21 branches and reading centers as we proceed toward September 19, the Library’s centennial date. Among the highlights:
• Limited Edition Library Cards – Stop by any branch to receive your 100th Anniversary commemorative card, available in three designs. Current cardholders, please note that your OCL barcode will change if you opt for a new card. Not a library member yet? Here is the perfect opportunity to sign up and discover everything that the Ocean County Library has to offer. They’re available now!
• 100 Prizes for 100 Years – Patrons of all ages who attend OCL programs will be offered raffle
tickets for a chance to win fun prizes. Ten prizes will be given away on the 19th of each month through August. All runner-up tickets will be carried over to the next month’s drawing. On September 19, we’ll give away 30 prizes. Mobile Library borrowers and Books-by-Mail patrons are also eligible. Stay tuned for more details!
• Anniversary Bookmark Contest – Become part of OCL history by designing a one-of-akind bookmark. Winners in Youth, Young Adult and Adult categories will have their designs replicated and made available at all branches.
And those are just the beginning. Join the celebration – it’s in your honor! Check the OCL website and social media platforms for newly-added programs and events all through 2025.
Caring For Our Kin
TOMS RIVER – “Caring for Our Kin” is a program co-developed by Penn State Extension and West Virginia University Extension for relatives and close family friends caring for children and teenagers. This support group has 12 classes, each covering an important aspect of caregiving. Participants will build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to handle various situations and provide the best care for the children they’re looking after.
This is a 12-Part Kinship Caregiver Sup-
port Group for Ocean County residents. It will take place monthly throughout the year in the evenings beginning January 29 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. This is a free program. Space is limited – Registration is due by January 17. The workshop will be held at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, 1623 Whitesville Road, Toms River on April 18. For more information, visit our website at ocean.njaes.rutgers.edu/fchs. Contact Dina Baudo with questions 732-349-1247.
Winter STEM Programs
TOMS RIVER – Toms River Township is offering the following STEM programs during the winter season:
Lego Robotics and Coding – Science in our Lives: Enhance your child’s STEM knowledge while building and programming their own robots, unleashing their creativity along the way. This fun, interactive program will introduce students to coding and robotics using Lego Spike Essential Robotics Sets. Children will work in pairs on guided projects focused on the sciences - physical, life and earth & space - defining problems and brainstorming solutions, as they build prototypes simulating nature. Join us for an inspiring journey!
Open to grades 1 to 3 and held on Fridays, January 10 to February 21, from 5 to 6 p.m. Lego Robotics and Coding with Scratch MIT – Science Connections: This fun and
interactive program explores many aspects of STEM using Lego Spike Essential Robotics Sets. Focusing on earth, physical, and life sciences, students will work in pairs to build prototypes as they learn the engineering design process. They will then code their designs with Scratch MIT, a block-based code, to perform various tasks and functions. Young engineers will build a wind turbine and an earthquake simulator as they learn and refine their coding and problem-solving skills while challenging their creativity. Join us for an inspiring journey!
Open to grades 3 to 5 and held on Fridays, January 10 to February 21, from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m.
Held at Toms River Youth Services Building 1505 North Bay Avenue, Toms River. Limited space, 10 students max. sign up at register.communitypass.net/tomsriver or call 732-341-1000 ext. 8414.
John Frammigen Memorial Super Bowling Scholarship Fundraiser
TOMS RIVER – Toms River Elks #1875 will be hosting the John Frammigen Memorial Super Bowling Scholarship Fundraiser on February 8 at the Playdrome Lanes Toms River. Doors open at 11 a.m. Games from 12 to 2
p.m. Cost is $30 per person. Lunch at the lodge after games included. Signup sheet at the lodge. Members and non-members welcome. For more information, call Neal at 732-779-9149.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 Diamond-studded watch, e.g.
6 Drama award 10 Greek peak 14 “On the Media” medium
15 Underwhelming 16 Temple athletes
17 Former NBA center who made only one three-point shot in his career 18 *Sounds when Dad is on the roller coaster?
20 Tower of note
21 “You wouldn’t __!”
23 Adjective on taco truck menus
24 *Football official who makes the absolute worst calls?
28 Start to cycle?
29 Minute 30 Ingest 31 Margarita con-
Florida NFLers 35 “You can’t deny it,” and a good question about the answers to the starred clues
Old Royale 8’s
“I hate it”
“Trust your __”
For
Pen pals?
Response from the underwhelmed
*Extremely poor student? 52 Prefix meaning “light”
Bread served with saag paneer
Maracan‹ Stadium city 56 *Woefully inadequate crust on a steak?
Single-sex group of experts
61 “Yeah, don’t think so”
62 The Hawkeye State
63 Banish
64 Younger sibling, stereotypically 65 Study __ 66 Pond plants
Down 1 Far-reaching 2 Poipu patio
3 Notes app entries
4 Actress Long
5 “Well done, you!”
6 Hawk in a duet
7 Bronx cheer leader
8 Co. for surfers
9 Maker of The Hero and The Fixer lip care products
10 Sounds of awe 11 Work-from-home attire, for many
12 The Iditarod, e.g.
13 Goes after
19 Drift, as an aroma
22 @ signs
25 Buenos __
26 Flat bread?
27 A throw
32 Makes fit, in a way
33 “Thereabouts”
34 RosŽ
35 “Did you miss us?”
36 100 cents
37 Rangers goalie Shesterkin
38 Kitchen counter? 39 Increases quickly 43 Ruse 44 “Yippee!”
45 O’er and o’er
48 Doodles
49 “Rubber Duckie” singer
50 Sally of “Brothers & Sisters”
51 Red parts of Louboutin shoes
53 Moderate pace 57 Prefix with gender 58 Gardener’s tool 60 Logger’s tool
SUDOKU
Jumble: STAFF PATIO HIDDEN
ARIES (March 21-April 19) : The course of your life could be determined by the sincerity of your actions. An ability to lead others might be your secret weapon in the week ahead. Think twice before making a major investment or decision.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You might spend more than planned, but you may be happier than expected. Your creative talents could be at their peak. You may find valuable discoveries or creations and be validated for your originality.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gather useful feedback. You may not need applause or a pat on the back to be happy and content. However, it could be wise to use friends or loved ones as a sounding board before making irrevocable decisions.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): You’ll never be last if you put others first. While your companions may act like divas or primp like superstars, you might be content to accept your place in the world. Go ahead and step into your role in the week ahead.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): If something is outdated it may be time for an update or upgrade. Circumstances might signal that you need further training or continuing education; you might even decide to pursue a certifi cate or a diploma.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Lean into what brings you joy. Consider taking some time to soak up the sun to chase away the winter blahs and lift your spirits. Your personal life might run more smoothly if you are more patient and understanding.
FOR THE WEEK OF JAN 11 - JAN 17
BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The holidays may be over, but visions of sugar plums might still be dancing around in your head. This week, your dreams of material success might easily become a reality if you put forth the energy and effort.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It might not be what you think that counts, but what other people think or how they feel about you. You may discover a great deal about someone by being more sensitive than usual during an hour of conversation.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Optimism and negativity might clash in the coming week. You might stay positive by reading inspirational books and listening to podcasts or a friend’s encouraging words and fi nancial advice.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):
Fame is the name of the game. This week your good deeds or leadership abilities could earn you some positive recognition. Your entrepreneurial skills and fi nancial knowledge could be better than usual AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may have the intelligence and clear-headedness to see through the spin and fl uff . In the week ahead, using wise business tactics and a collective group effort could result in a well-deserved victory.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Someone’s high spirits may build you up whenever the rest of the world feels sad or gloomy. It could be smart to avoid imposing your ideas or beliefs on others. Find a place where you can enjoy tranquility and serenity..
REFRESHING ZAPS OF GINGER PUNCTUATE TENDER, SAVORY PIECES OF CHICKEN IN THIS SIMPLE, COZY VIETNAMESE BRAISE
By America’s Test Kitchen
GÀ KHO GỪNG (VIETNAMESE CARAMELBRAISED CHICKEN WITH GINGER)
(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2025 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
