2017-01-14 - The Southern Ocean Times

Vol. 4 - No. 29

I N T HIS W EEK ’ S E DITION

THE SOUTHERN OCEAN

TIMES

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AFTER COMPLAINT AGAINST DOCTOR, STATE URGES REVACCINATION FOR 900 KIDS

Don’t miss what’s happening in your town.

Pages 8-11.

Letters To The Editor Page 6.

From Your Government Officials Page 7.

Doctor Izzy “Smart Phone Connectivity” Page 14.

Dear Pharmacist

Biography photo, Southern Ocean Medical Center

By Catherine Galioto STAFFORD – A Manahawkin pediatric doctor is at risk of losing his license after a state complaint alleging gross misconduct was filed January 9.

The complaint, through the state Department of Consumer Affairs – Attorney General’s Office, alleges Dr. Michael Bleiman’s Southern Ocean Pediatrics and Family Medicine office was part of a free or low-cost vaccine program that failed to keep the vaccines refrigerated within the range of acceptable temperatures.

According to a statement by the

state Depar tment of Health, approximately 900 children should be revaccinated. The vaccines were not harmful, but could have lost efficacy, due to the alleged improper refrigeration, officials said.

Bleiman’s pediatric office, which is inside Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, had no comment when reached by phone January 10.

SOMC spokesperson Donna Sellmann issued a statement January 10: “We recognize that news concerning improperly stored vaccines is alarming to parents and we are partnering

Thousands Of Homes Elevated Since Sandy

Page 15.

Inside The Law “Land Use Applications” Page 17.

Dear Joel “Break Up To Make Up That’s All We Do”

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Fun Page Classified Ads Page 19.

Wolfgang Puck This Year, Get Acquainted With A Grain From The Past

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–Photos by FEMA An elevated home overlooking Manahawkin Bay and the bridge to Long Beach Island. In Stafford, more than 600 house-raising permits were issued by the town since Superstorm Sandy.

By Judy Smestad-Nunn OCEAN COUNTY – Thousands of homes substantially damaged in Superstorm Sandy have been raised to new elevations since October 2012.

Some homes were entirely swept away and into Barnegat Bay, and while other still sit boarded up years later, many homes were elevated or are in

with the Department of Health to assist the families who may want to have their children evaluated and revaccinated if appropriate.”

The Department of Health said SOMC would be creating a hotline to assist families with inquiries. Letters to patients were being mailed following the complaint, to patients as far back as 2014.

“The Department of Health is mailing letters this week to impacted families whose children were vaccinated at Southern Ocean Pediatrics and Family (Complaint - See Page 4)

First Snowfall Totals For 2017

“New Medications To Help With Dry Eyes, Seizures And Hallucinations”

Page 20.

| January 14, 2017

the process of being elevated.

Home Elevation Numbers We took a look at the number of permits issued for home elevations in several Ocean County towns that saw dramatic devastation from Sandy.

These towns have several hundred or more home (Homes - See Page 12)

By Catherine Galioto The January 7 snowstorm hit parts of the area with as much as 9 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service.

The NWS numbers show areas such as Lacey, Barnegat and Stafford among the most inches.

Statewide, the record went to Port Norris in Cumberland County, with 10 inches.

Ahead of the storm, local offices of emergency management for Ocean County and towns such as Berkeley, Brick and Tuckerton all issued alerts, ranging from slick road conditions, to plowing notices, to asking residents to remove parked vehicles from side streets.

Check out the unofficial snow total. How did your area fare?

Ocean County Barnegat: 8.5 inches Berkeley: 8.2 inches Brick: 7.3 inches Jackson: 7.0 inches Lanoka Harbor: 9.0 inches Point Pleasant: 6.5 inches Pine Beach: 5.5 inches Stafford: 8.6 inches Toms River: 7.3 inches Monmouth County Belmar: 7.7 inches Colts Neck: 6.5 inches (Snowfall - See Page 5)

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 3

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Page 4, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

Complaint:

Continued From Page 1 Medicine in Manahawkin, which is the medical office of Dr. Michael Bleiman. The Department suspended shipment of VFC vaccine to Dr. Bleiman on July 28, 2016, when, during a routine compliance visit, problems with refrigeration temperatures were discovered,” wrote the DOH in its press release.

State Complaint The AG complaint, filed January 9 through the State Board of Medical Examiners, alleges gross negligence, professional misconduct and other violations by Dr. ‎ Bleiman, in regard to the offices temperature logs, use of quarantined vaccines and other record-keeping issues through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.

VFC is a federally funded, state operated program that provides 1.6 million free or lowcost vaccines to eligible low-income children at more than 1,000 medical offices around the state each year.

According to the complaint, Bleiman’s office received the training and approvals to take part in the program and administer vaccines such as measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, hepatitis A & B, rotavirus, DTaP/Tdap, Hib, pneumococcal, polio, meningococcal and HPV. But by storing the vaccines outside the range of acceptable temperatures, the vaccines may have lost some of their potency. The complaint alleges those vaccines were administered through July 28 but were refrigerated improperly.

According to the complaint, a state compliance officer discovered the improper refrigeration in the July visit.

601 Rt. 72 East • Manahawkin 609-549-3146

The officer ordered the existing 280 vaccines be quarantined so that the manufacturer could test their efficacy, and required Bleiman’s office to use an electronic data logger that tests the refrigerator’s temperature every 30 minutes.

New vaccines – 335 total – were received by the pediatric office to be administered through the VFC program.

The complaint alleges Bleiman’s office distributed the quarantined vaccines, did not verify with the manufacturer the vaccines’ viability, and continued to register improper refrigerator temperatures, which meant the newly received vaccines were possibly compromised, the complaint states.

The office also allegedly failed to keep records in compliance with VFC temperature-log standards, with “little to no variation in recorded temperatures for extended periods of time; handwritten out-of-range temperatures recorded that were not electronically reported to the VFC and no corrective action was undertaken,” according to the complaint documents.

In an October 24 visit, VFC program staff removed all remaining doses from the pediatric office, and retrieved the installed electronic data logger and handwritten copies of the temperature logs dating prior to January 1, 2016, the complaint states.

The VFC conducted its examination of Bleiman’s VFC vaccine inventory, and according to the complaint, found that the quarantined vaccines were unusable. Of the 280 vaccines that were quarantined, 11 were administered to children, and several others were missing.

Several of the non-quarantined vaccines were also missing.

Since then, the pediatrics’ office was suspend-

ed from participating in the VFC program and has not been recertified to participate.

The complaint order requires a response from Dr. Bleiman within 35 days of the order, responded to counts of gross negligence and professional misconduct.

Signed by state Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino, the complainant is seeking a plenary hearing suspending or revoking Bleiman’s license to practice medicine in New Jersey, and seeks civil penalties and restitution, through the state board of medical examiners.

“As part of an ongoing investigation, the Department made referrals to and is working with the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners, the Medicaid Fraud Division in the Office of the State Comptroller; and the Medicaid program in the New Jersey Department of Human Services,” according to state officials.

What Patients Should Do According to a statement from the state Department of Health, approximately 900 children who participated in the VFC program may need to be revaccinated. The children who should be evaluated for revaccination were vaccinated between November 2014 and July 28, 2016.

The state DOH said those vaccinated were not harmed by the vaccines, but are likely not protected from the disease they were vaccinated against.

“Vaccine that has not been properly refrigerated under the recommendation of the manufacturer may be less effective. Children who receive these vaccines might not be fully protected against vaccine-preventable diseases, according to the guidelines of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Receiving improperly-stored vaccines is not a

danger to the health of the recipient, however, according to the CDC guidelines, exposure to temperatures outside the manufacturer’s recommended range can make vaccines less effective at preventing disease,” said the DOH. The DOH’s recommendations: Parents may want to discuss revaccination with a health care provider. The vaccines the children received include measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, hepatitis A & B, rotavirus, DTaP/Tdap, Hib, pneumococcal, polio, meningococcal and HPV. Families enrolled in Medicaid Managed Care Organizations should contact their health plan for assistance in providing an in-network provider.

Parents or guardians of uninsured children can contact Federally Qualified Health Centers in the area, including the Center for Health Education, Medicine & Dentistry (CHEMED) in Lakewood and Ocean Health Initiatives in Lakewood.

In addition, Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, which is part of Hackensack Meridian Health, will also be setting up a hotline to help families evaluate the need for revaccination.

What tips does the DOH offer parents in seeking out a physician who properly stores vaccine?

“Parents and guardians should ask their health care provider if they follow the CDC guidelines for handling and storage of vaccine,” said Donna Leusner, DOH Director of Communications.

She said the CDC storage and handling toolkit is the best resource for questions about proper refrigeration temperatures of vaccine: cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/admin/storage/toolkit/ storage-handling-toolkit.pdf.

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Snowfall:

Continued From Page 1 Freehold Twp: 6.0 inches Howell: 7.3 inches Long Branch: 8.0 inches Marlboro: 6.8 inches The National Weather Service said the

The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 5 totals are unofficial observations compiled from social media postings to the NWS Mount Holly Facebook page, trained Skywarn spotters and the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow network.

For a closer look at the previous storm and the current forecast, visit the NWS Mount Holly page at weather.gov/phi.

–Photo by Chris Lundy Plows were still making the rounds on January 8 in Lacey, passing by town hall on Lacey Road.

Meet Theodore Roosevelt

STAFFORD – The Stafford branch of the Ocean County Library will hold a friends adventure, “Theodore Roosevelt: American in the Arena” on February 2 at 10:30 a.m.

“Meet” the 26th president, war hero, and naturalist portrayed by a theatrical re-enactor. The show is presented by the NJ Council

for the Humanities and sponsored by The Friends of the Stafford Library.

Registration is required by visiting theoceancountylibrar y.org. Click on “Events and News.”

The branch is located at 129 N. Main St. in Manahawkin.

WAA Baseball 2017 Spring Registration

WARETOWN – WAA Baseball spring registration will take place January 18 and February 6.

T-Ball registration in January will cost $110 major, $120 senior.

T-ball registration in February will cost $120 major, $130 senior.

Registration will take place at the

Waretown Elementary School from 6 to 8 p.m. They will be holding their annual pasta dinner fundraiser. Each family is asked to purchase four tickets at the time of registration. The cost is $8 per ticket.

For more information, visit leaguelineup. com/WAA or email gretski8@verizon.net.

Youth Lacrosse Final Registration For Spring

BARNEGAT – Barnegat Youth Lacrosse will have its winter clinic starting January 27.

The clinic will meet Wednesdays at Brackman Main Gym from January 27 through February 24. Children in grades 3 and 4 will meet from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., and boys grades 7 and 8 will meet from 8:30 to 10 p.m.

The clinic will also offer Friday hours from

January 29 through February 26, and not meet February 12. An instructional time will be held from 6:15 to 7 p.m. Boys in grades 5 and 6 will meet from 7 to 8 p.m.

Girls in grades 5 through 8 will meet from 8 to 9 p.m.

To register, visit leaguelineup.com/ bulletslacrosse.

Payment plans are available.

PRSD Referendum Vote January 24

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – On January 24, the Pinelands Regional School District will ask residents to vote on a $53.6 million bond referendum to fund critical repairs and no-

frills renovations and upgrades to maintain a safe and effective education environment.

The district is asking residents to vote on the referendum.

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Page 6, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY Letters To The Editor

F EATURED L ETTER Bail Reform In New Jersey New Jersey’s new bail system has a multitude of unresolved issues. Described by one commentator as “massive,” there are serious questions as to whether its costs can be covered, much less achieve the savings originally promised. Moreover, there is doubt as to whether this creation from Governor Christie, backed by legislative approval, is actually a fairer system than the one it replaced.

On the issue of cost and savings, three separate bar associations are suing the state Supreme Court over fee increases intended in part to support bail reform.

In addition, the New Jersey Association of Counties recently filed an action with the Council on Local Mandates, alleging that the new bail reform law was, by definition, an unfunded mandate and should therefore be struck down.

Then came a report from the state’s attorney general indicating there was no way to know what bail reform would cost until some undetermined future point in time after it is implemented.

The attorney general was also unable to establish that there would be sufficient savings to cover costs to local and state governments.

In the meantime, a number of county officials have

made public statements suggesting it is unlikely that the savings will cover the costs.

Regarding fairness, the lynchpin of the reforms is a computerized risk-assessment that is supposedly fairer to defendants by attempting to predict behavior.

The race neutrality of such assessments has come under serious question. Also, these risk determinations are not based on the current system, which looks at what a defendant is accused of doing in that particular case and setting bail based on that along with supplementary factors. Rather, the computer completely erodes the presumption of innocence.

It is far worse than a conduct-based system because the risk instrument weights prior conduct that cannot be undone, such as the age of an individual when they were first arrested or if they have had any prior criminal convictions – or how many.

In addition, it has been pointed out that, in some cases, the time it takes to assess a defendant can restrain their liberty longer than would have been previously necessary. In the old system, a cash or surety bond could have been posted and the individual freed.

Jeffrey J. Clayton Executive Director American Bail Coalition

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Published by Micromedia Publications, Inc. Stewart Swann, President & Publisher Robyn Weber, Vice-President Jason Allentoff, General Manager & Editor-In-Chief Allison Gradzki, Production Manager Catherine Galioto, News Editor Chris Lundy, Assistant News Editor Adriana Starcic, Graphic Artist Ashley Emmons, Layout Designer Laura Hoban, Distribution Manager OFFICE CLOSED: Saturday and Sunday

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Require Dog Microchipping We’re pleased to note that our town of Jackson has earned a good reputation for being animal friendly in many ways, as witness the recent Jackson Council legislation controlling unlimited dog breeding. Jackson also provides a collection bin in the municipal building for donations to the facility on Freemont Avenue, a much-needed pet food pantry at the Public Works Building, required rabies shots and of course the annual dog licensing rule.

We u rge the Cou ncil to take another step toward benefiting animals, owners and taxpayers by re qu i r i ng st e r i l i z at ion and microchipping of all dogs as they are presented for licensing and rabies shots. Cat owners should also be e ncou r age d t o sterilize and microchip their felines at low rates, perhaps by having several annual Pet Fair Days.

T hose si mple r ules would shar ply decrease the volume of surrendered cats and dogs who a re unwanted and abandoned.

Cats and dogs who are sterilized live longer, are far healthier and cost their humans less in vet fees.

Ja ck son shou ld once again take the leadership role in Ocean County by mand ati ng such a pro gressive program.

Susan Addelston Jackson

Letters To The Editor Silent Majority Plan To Preserve Finally Speaking Wetlands The two opposing views Good For on law enforcement i n Environment, t he D e c e mb e r 24 e d iCommunity tion Letter to the Editor are a perfect example of t he d i f fe r e nt opi n ion s that society has on law en forcement. T he pro law enforcement view is short, concise and to the point. It is this portion of society, the silent majority, which realizes that without law enforcement there will be lawlessness and chaos.

The anti-law enforcement view is longwinded, contradictory and full of unnecessary filler in an at t e mpt t o sou nd convincing and educated. It is this por tion of society, the vocal minority, which is un happy with everything that law enfo r c e m e nt d o e s . T h e y are the portion of society who complai n because the officer did not wipe his feet while searching their house for a burglar or a motorist who gives a disapproving look and a nasty comment after given a break by an officer for a traffic violation and still posts the interaction on social media.

I for one am glad that the silent majority is beginning to wake up and starting to let the vocal mi nor it y k now enough i s e nou g h . T h a n k you to all law enforcement officers.

Tony Graft Toms River

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The Southern Ocean Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

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While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters.

The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail or bring typed letters to: 15 Union Ave., Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail newsdesk@micromediapubs. com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

Opinions expressed in letters do not re�lect those of Micromedia Publications.

An area of coastal wetlands located in the Holgate section of Long Beach Island that was impacted by flooding during Hurricane Sandy is under plans for preser vation. The DEP h a d fo r m e rly a l lowe d the change of a wetlands boundary in a section of Long Beach Island to permit development in this f lood prone area further putting people at risk. The Sierra Club opposed this proposal because it would further threaten surrounding residents during the next storm and develop over an environmentally sensitive area. Wetlands act an important part of flood protection and help reduce the flood hazard level. These wetlands also protect water quality, while recharging the aquifer and offer an important natural habitat.

We support the Trust for Public Land preserving the Holgate wetlands because it will help protect the area during future storm events and prevent flooding.

The plan to preserve coastal wetlands in Holgate is good for the environment and the community. By preserving this property, it will protect people and proper ty at risk during future storm surges. This is an environmentally sensitive area that is subject to flooding and helps serve as a buffer to absorb storm surges. As the population of coastal communities keeps growing, the potential for disaster will be greater, which is why we need to buy out flood prone properties and move development away from the water’s edge.

We need a comprehensive approach do deal with climate change to lessen the impacts on storms along our coast. Instead the administration is doing the opposite and promoting more development, which is

why preserving this property is important.”

Instead of learning the lessons from Hurricane Sandy, the proposal to develop this property was a disaster waiting to happen. The DEP clearly sold out the environment to developers by rubberstamping permits for this development. That is why it is important that this property is protected so the surrounding community does not experience as much flooding and damage.

The approval of permits to develop this property shows DEP has continued to deny climate change science and sea level rise, which is making more people vulnerable during the next storm. We need to preserve this property because the Christie Administration rather protect developer’s interest instead of protecting people and the environment along the shore.

Jeff Tittel NJ Sierra Club

Cannabis Dispensary Licenses A Sham New Jersey and New York’s medical cannabis systems aren’t working for patients, and the few licensed dispensaries only serve to inflate the prices paid by patients, as well as to incentivize the states to prevent home growing to preserve retail sales tax revenue.

The state governments and the dispensary investors are laughing all the way to the bank with their sham monopoly dispensary programs, where a few will profit and the sick masses will overpay.

Well-connected allies of Governor Chris Christie received these federally illegal licenses in New Jersey, which spells corruption in itself.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office should open an investigation into the awarding of dispensary licenses and other potential corruption tied to dispensaries to New Jersey and New York.

Eric Hafner Toms River

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 7

SPOTLIGHT ON GOVERNMENT Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

From The Desk Of Congressman Tom MacArthur: MacArthur Sworn In To Second Term Representing South Jersey In Congress

Congressman Tom MacArthur WASHI NGTON, D.C. – C o n g r e s s m a n To m MacArthur was officially sworn in for a second ter m representing New Jersey’s Third Congressional Dist r ict in Cong ress. MacA r thu r took t he oat h of of f ic e a d m i n istered by Spea ker

Paul Ryan surrounded by family on January 3.

“Representing South Jersey in Congress has been one of the greatest opportunities of my life,” said M a cA r t hu r. “ I r e m a i n committed to providing for our national defense and protecting Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, g row i ng ou r economy, demanding accountability from FEMA for our neighbors and f ighting the heroin epidemic that

is dest roying our communities. It is a privilege to represent our cor ner of the United States and provide a voice for South Je r sey re side nt s. O ve r the next two years, I will continue to provide the best possible constituent service for our community members and work t o a c h i e ve b i p a r t i s a n solutions to improve the quality of life for New Jersey’s Third Congressional District residents.”

–Photo courtesy MacArthur’s Office Congressman Tom MacArthur with his family and Speaker Paul Ryan on January 3.

Freeholders Support Senior Services Such As Meal Delivery

OCEA N COU N T Y – About 1,000 meals a day leave the kitchens of Community Services Inc. and head to the homes of homebound seniors living in Ocean County.

“That meal is the lifeline for so many of the seniors that call Ocean County home,” said Ocean County Freeholder John P. Kelly.

“With that meal comes a wellness check, someone that will spend some time and listen, a person that may be the only contact this senior will have all day.”

Ocean County Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as chairman to the Office of Senior Services announced the Board of Freeholders is expected to enter into seven contracts w it h C o m mu n it y S e rvices Inc., Lakewood, to continue providing home delivered meals, congregate meals and a host of other services to seniors in Ocean County in the New Year.

“This is an important program in Ocean County and I am happy we will continue it into the New Year,” Vicari said “CSI’s mission is not only to pro-

vide a meal but also to provide a full array of support services to help our older adults to remain independent in their community.”

“With the largest senior population in the state, these services are key to allowi ng ou r sen iors a good quality of life,” Vicari said. “I applaud my colleagues on the Board and the staff at the Off ice of Senior Ser vices for making certain these programs and services for seniors are in place and easily accessible.”

The cost of the congregate meal contract is $782,173 while the home delivered and weekend/holiday meal contracts total $1,819,517.

“While there is a statewide nutrition wait list of more than 1,300 people, there is no wait list in Ocean County,” Vicari said. “For the past 18 months we worked vigorously to make certain everyone who qualifies receives a meal. The continued support of this Board is helping to make sure our seniors are assisted.”

Community Services Inc. plans to provide 52,000 c o ng r eg a t e m e a l s a n d more than 240,600 home delivered meals in 2017.

As of the end of November, 256,000 meals have already been delivered in 2016.

“The need in Ocean County is great,” Vicari said.

“Nutrition will continue to be a priority issue for this county as the demand for home delivered meals grows with the increasing aging population.”

Vicari noted that it costs less to provides meals to a senior for a year than it does to cover the cost of a one-day hospital stay.

“One day in a hospital in New Jersey exceeds $2,500,” Vicari said. “Providing meals for one year at a cost of about $2,236 is priceless when you think about all the benefits that come with it.”

In addition to meals, nutrition education and nutrition counseling will be provided to 2,036 congregate and home delivered meal participants.

Community Services Inc. also will provide 31,140 client suppor t contacts such as community outreach, benefit screening, transportation, and lang uage t ranslation. T he contract for those services totals $478,749.

In addition, Com munit y Ser vices Inc. will also provide the evidence based Ch ronic Disease Self-Management program to 200 individuals. There will be a targeted effort to specifically reach those with diabetes. The amount of this contract is $40,895.

“These contracts address

a critical need,” Vicari said. “According to our recent nutrition screening fi ndings, 73 percent of the congregate meal site participants are at moderate to high nutritional risk and 94 percent of the home delivered meals’ clients are at moderate to high nutritional risk.

“Good nut r it ion is a key factor in keeping our seniors healthy and out of emergency rooms and nursing homes,” Vicari said. “It’s impor tant to keep these programs and services going so that we can meet the needs of a growing elderly population.”

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COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

SR Girls Basketball Finished Third

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–Photo courtesy Southern Regional High School MANAHAWKIN – The Southern Regional Girls Basketball finished third at the 2016 Score at the Shore Tournament. The Rams defeated Oakcrest in the first round and Manalapan in the third-place game in the tournament. The Rams lost to Notre Dame in the semifinals. The seven team field was competitive with Mainland winning the team championship.

Lacey Branch Hosts “12 Surefire Strategies To Stop Procrastinating”

LACEY – Anyone who finds they put things off for later shouldn’t miss “12 Surefire Strategies to Stop Procrastinating” at the Ocean County Library’s Lacey Branch, 10 East Lacey Road, at 7 p.m. on January 16.

Bestselling author and time management specialist Jamie Novak, will explain how to put an end to last minute rushing around caused by procrastination.

Novak uses humor to reveal the common reasons why we put things off while your to-do list keeps growing. She will explain what to do about it, so you can feel energized, accomplished and in control.

The program is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register call the Lacey Branch at 609-693-8566 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org.

Roosevelt Re-Enactment

STAFFORD – The Stafford branch of the Ocean County Library will host a Theodore Roosevelt re-enactor at a special program at 10:30 a.m. February 2.

Friends Adventure: Theodore Roosevelt “American in the Arena” will allow the audience to “meet” the 26th President, war hero

and naturalist as portrayed by a theatrical re-enactor. Presented by the N.J. Council for the Humanities. Sponsored by The Friends of the Stafford Library. Please register.

Contact the library, 129 N. Main Street, at 609-597-3381 or theoceancountylibrary.org for more information.

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 9

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

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We Accept Medicare & Most Health Plans –Photo courtesy Southern Regional High School MANAHAWKIN – Southern Regional Alum Rob Barrett, class of 2008, was honored before the Notre Dame/Holy Spirit Boys Championship Final for the 2016 Score at the Shore Tournament held at Southern Regional High School over the holiday break. Barrett has worked the clock at the tournament for 12 years. He was presented the award by Southern Regional Head Coaches Tom Bucci (Girls Basketball) and Eric Fierro (Boys Basketball).

Celebrate Irish Arts Festival

MANAHAWKIN – The Shore to Shore “Celebrate Irish Arts Festival” is an annual festival to commemorate Irish immigration with music, dancing, artwork and food.

This year’s event will take place February 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ocean Acres Community Center, Manahawkin.

At 12:30 p.m., Clan Suibhne (pronounced Sweeney) and others will recall experiences of people coming to America in music, song and lecture. The performance will include songs, poems, and a wide array of musical instruments as the Great Highland bagpipes, tenor banjo, harmonica, guitar, mandolin and accordion.

Sponsored by the Long Beach Island and Stafford Branches, Ocean County Library.

Get Technical Assistance On MLK Day Of Service

MANAHAWKIN – Stockton University at Manahawkin invites members of the public to receive technical assistance with personal electronic devices such as cell phones, laptops, tablets and e-readers on Dr. Martin Luther King Day of Service on January 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Call 609-626-3883 to reserve a 30-minute appointment for this free service at the university’s location at 712 E. Bay Ave. For more information about classes and other events at Stockton at Manahawkin, visit Stockton.edu/Manahawkin.

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Page 10, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

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–Photo courtesy Southern Regional High School Southern Regional High School had its 16th annual presentation to the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.

MANAHAWKIN – Southern Regional’s 16th annual presentation to the Atlantic City Rescue Mission reflected the spirit of the season. It was a chance for students to give back and many commented on how good it felt to help others during the holiday season.

The goal is for every person who comes to Southern to donate one item. This year’s goal was to collect one item for every person in the district – about 3,000 items. Students, faculty, and staff collected non-perishable food items during the month of December and

presented 36,519 items to members from the Rescue Mission in a school-wide assembly on December 23.

Recognition must also be given to the Southern Regional Music Department for donating more than $1,000 that they collected at their concerts to be used to purchase medicine for children in need. Over the years of this project, Southern has donated over 304,473 items.

Prior to the assembly, members of the Rescue Mission were treated to a holiday dinner made by the staff at Southern.

Labyrinth Walk

BRANT BEACH – St. Francis of Assisi Parish will host a Labyrinth Walk scheduled for January 23 and 24 from 9:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the St. Francis Brant Beach Church Hall located at 4700 Long Beach Blvd.

The Labyrinth is a path of prayer, a walking meditation that can become a mirror of the soul.

It is a spiritual act of pilgrimage, a metaphor

for life’s journey. Guests may choose one day to treat themselves to some quiet time. Walking the Labyrinth takes less than one hour.

A finger Labyrinth is available for those who have difficulty walking. The walk is open to all faiths. All are welcome.

For more information, call 609-494-8813 or visit stfrancisparishlbi.org.

George Washington Visits LBI

SURF CITY – Celebrate George Washington’s 285th birthday in attending a living history program given by historian impersonator, Sam Davis.

George Washington led the Continental Army, spending half the American Revolution in New Jersey from 1775 to 1783. An art ex-

hibit depicting patriotic themes is the backdrop for the program.

Refreshments including a birthday cake for George Washington will be served. This family program starts at 1 p.m. on February 18.

Call the Island Library 217 S. Central Ave., to register at 609-494-2480.

Documentary Saturday: Freeheld

BARNEGAT – The Barnegat branch of the Ocean County Library is showing the documentary “Freeheld” on January 14 at 11 a.m.

The library is located at 112 Burr St. Laurel Hester a New Jersey police lieutenant

and her domestic partner Stacie Andree battle to have pension benefits from Hester pass on to her partner after she is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. The documentary is not rated and runs 39 minutes.

All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner

EAGLESWOOD – There will be an all you can eat spaghetti dinner at West Creek United Methodist Church on February 4 from 4 to 7 p.m.

The church is located at 191 Church St.,

West Creek.

The cost is $10 for adults, children 4 to 12, $5, and children 3 and younger eat free.

Take out is available.

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 11

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–Photo courtesy PRSD Students and staff of the Pinelands Regional School District participate in a safety drill in cooperation with local law enforcement in 2014.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – Safety and security of the students and staff of Pinelands Regional School District are paramount, which is why the district will be conducting live shooter drills in January or February 2017.

“Fire drills and security drills are conducted under a variety of scenarios and circumstances so students and staff are familiar with procedures and are prepared for a possible live event,” said PRSD Interim Superintendent Maryann Banks, Ed.D. “We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as we work together to provide a safe, secure learning environment for students and staff.”

Both Pinelands Regional Junior High School and Pinelands Regional High School will be conducting active shooter drills. The PRJHS drill will be conducted in an age-appropriate manner, implemented with the assistance of local law enforcement. The PRHS drill will

occur on a different day and will include the involvement of local law enforcement, Emergency Medical Technicians, and other emergency personnel. During the PRHS drill, Nugentown Road may be blocked off so that emergency personnel can access the high school. On the morning of the drill, parents will be notified via Blackboard Connect so they are aware all activity is related to the drill and not a live event.

After the drills, the PRSD administration will meet with local law enforcement to debrief and discuss responses, actions, and what should be done differently. New Jersey Statutes require school districts to conduct one fire drill and one security drill each month.

Parents and guardians of students will be notified of the drills via letter in January. Anyone with questions regarding the drills can contact the district at 609-296-3106.

Bus Trip To NJ Devils

LACEY – The Lacey Township Recreation Department is currently taking registration for a bus trip to the Prudential Center to see the New Jersey Devils face off against the Carolina Hurricanes on March 25.

The Recreation Bus will leave from the rear Municipal Building Parking Lot at 4:45 p.m.

Tickets for the game are $45 which includes bus transportation to and from the game as well as a game ticket in section 108 in the arena.

They are also offering half-price food vouchers

to be used at the Prudential Center, a voucher for $10 worth of food can be purchased for those attending the trip for just $5.

Interested individuals can register for this trip at the Recreation Office, 818 Lacey Road, on Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Registration is taken on a first come, first served basis and all checks should be made payable to Lacey Township.

For more information, call 609-693-1100, ext. 2203.

Drop-In Computer Help

STAFFORD – The Stafford branch of the Ocean County Library offers computer help on a drop-in basis during select hours.

The hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday

and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Contact the library, 129 N. Main Street, at 609-597-3381 or theoceancountylibrary.org for more information.

Maxwell Named “Player To Watch”

MANAHAWKIN – Liam Maxwell, SRHS Class of 2016, was named to the Conference Carolinas 2017 “Players to Watch” list for the upcoming volleyball season for Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, NC.

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Page 12, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

Homes:

Continued From Page 1 elevation permits issued since Sandy. In Toms River, 1,148 home elevation permits were issued, officials there said.

These neighborhoods suffered catastrophic f looding, such as Ortley Beach and Silverton in Toms River; Shore Acres and Baywood in Brick; Good Luck Point and South Seaside Park in Berkeley; and Beach Haven West and Cedar Bonnet Island in Stafford Township. By November 2012 Governor Chris Christie estimated that the cost of Sandy-related damage in the state to be $36.8 billion. Toms River reported more than $2 billion in lost ratables.

Once FEMA established new flood zones for recommended building elevations, and Sandy survivors began to rebuild, rehabilitate or elevate their homes, they were slammed again, this time to a new tax assessment on their improved dwellings.

Stafford – 626 House Raising Permits Mayor John Spodofora of Stafford Township said the initial impact of Superstorm Sandy was the loss of $200 million to the ratables base there, but over the last four years, the township has recovered from the loss, which has had a minimal tax impact on residents.

“Sandy was the worst storm to hit Stafford in recorded history. The response from everyone was incredible, and a testimony to everyone involved, Spodofora said. “Our recovery was in no small part a reflection of the efforts of many volunteers and dedicated employees.”

He said he sees “continuing a great future” as the rebuilding continues and the new homes being constructed add “so much more” to the ratable base.

This year Stafford Township would be constructing a new Community Center to replace the one lost by Sandy, Spodofora said.

Township Administrator James A. Moran said that while they have recouped the $200 million in ratables lost to Sandy, Stafford Township is still not back to the tax assessment level that existed prior to the storm.

“The reduction in the current taxable value is the result of a sagging economy, and not from Superstorm Sandy,” he said.

Some of the recovery has been from other sources, such as new businesses, he said.

Stafford has issued 870 demolition permits, of which 832 are completed. 626 house raising permits have been issued, and 392 of those are done. 693 single-family dwelling permits were issued and 559 of those are completed, Moran said.

Brick – 314 Homes Elevated In Brick, 314 homes have been elevated, six are nearly completed, 31 are waiting for final approvals and 197 are under construction in various stages of work, Brick Mayor John Ducey said.

Also, 379 single family homes were demolished and rebuilt, he said.

Brick lost an estimated $357 million in ratables as a result of Sandy.

“The look of our waterfront neighborhoods are changing drastically. The new flood maps have changed our waterfront areas forever,” Ducey said.

Toms River – 1,148 Elevation Permits Toms River lost some $2 billion in ratables due to Sandy, and Mayor Thomas F. Kelaher said that by November 2016, the township had approved 2,070 demolition permits and completed 2,001.

In Toms River, 1,875 new home permits were approved and 1,428 were completed.

Of the 1,148 elevation permits, 753 had been completed; and of the 3,795 substantially damaged homes, 3,023 of those had been rebuilt.

“Nearly five years after Superstorm Sandy, there is nothing more important than getting families in Toms River back in their homes,” Kelaher said.

Toms River Township Administrator Paul Shives said the demand on the building department has continued as evidenced by these figures.

“These figures represent a tremendous amount of work on the part of our township departments that deal with the reconstruction process. We know there’s much work still ahead but we will continue to work hard everyday to get every resident back into their homes,” Kelaher said.

Berkeley – 150 Home Elevation Permits Berkeley Business Administrator John Camera said Berkeley Township has had some 185 re-builds and they have issued 150 permits to elevate existing homes. All but 25 have been completed.

Elected officials “feel deeply for the financial and emotional hardships which their constituency has had to deal with,” he said.

Camera said Berkeley Township has

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been “second to none” regarding proactive measures to help Sandy-affected property owners, including waiving fees and “doing whatever has been possible” to expedite doing the repairs and rebuilds to get everyone back into their homes.

“As tough a process as this has been for everyone, the ultimate effect has been a beautification and modernization of many properties. Additionally, all of these properties are now safer and much more resilient than ever before,” Camera said.

With New Heights Comes Higher Tax Assessment Mayor Carmen Amato of Berkeley said his administration has been on the issue of increased assessments for some time, saying it is unfair that in many cases a home elevation is mandated by insurance, not because the homeowner wanted to elevate.

Then, the homeowner faces a higher tax assessment as the elevation increases the value of the home.

“We approved a resolution, met with Senator Connors and contacted the governor’s office seeking legislation on a five-year tax abatement for these specific Sandy-related homes,” Amato said.

Mayor John G. Ducey of Brick said he has requested that state legislators look into passing a law that would give an amnesty period to residents who have raised their homes.

“Without a state law there is no mechanism in place for a town to give this amnesty to its residents,” Ducey said.

Toms River tax assessor Richard Kenny (Homes - See Page 13)

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Homes:

Continued From Page 12 said that changes in assessment due to any type of construction are based on the completed construction project.

“The reason for the construction is basically irrelevant to the assessment valuation process,” he said.

“After construction is completed, a field inspector from this office visits the property to collect the assessment data on the new construction. That data is then entered into our computer-aided appraisal file to calculate a new assessment on the building,” Kenny explained.

The tax assessor’s office does not simply increase an assessment a certain number of dollars just because the home has been elevated. All property characteristics are taken into consideration, he said.

Moran, of Stafford, said the assessment

The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 13 from elevated homes could also reflect a lower assessment that occurred after the storm when that home was labeled substantially damaged.

“Tax assessments were lowered, poststorm, to reflect the storm damage and decreased value in land, so there was an adjustment,” Morah said. “There is no question that once the houses are repaired they have a higher value than pre-storm.

Also, four years have passed, so the assessments are based on recent sales in the area.”

As an example, if a Cape Cod-style home was assessed at $400,000 before the storm, it could be worth $500,000 after it is elevated. “The assessment would reflect that,” Moran said.

Moran said that recovery has gone much better than anyone could have imagined in 2012, and even though Beach Haven West has still not recovered, Stafford is still better off than some of the surrounding towns.

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Monday Night Movie: The Long Walk Home

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Long Beach Island branch of the Ocean County Library will show “The Long Walk Home” on January 16 at 6:30 p.m. The library is located at 217 S. Central Ave. in Surf City.

Two women, black and white, in 1955

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Registration is required at theoceancountylibrary.org.

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Page 14, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

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Smart Phone Connectivity

Technology offers all of us the opportunity to do amazing things every day that would have been unimaginable even 10 years ago.

The advent and popularity of smartphones, such as the iPhone, has made our lives more convenient to the world around us than it has ever been.

Our goal is to allow us an opportunity to connect people to the world around them in ways they may have forgotten, or never known in the first place; using the most advanced hearing technology available.

Several hearing aid manufacturers including GN Resound and Starkey have developed hearing instruments which are iPhone compatible. What do patients like the most about this interactive breakthrough in hearing technology?

Here’s what we’ve gathered:

The ability to stream phone calls, music, videos, FaceTime calls, and Siri from you cell phone straight to your hearing aids.

The ability to make subtle adjustments for environmental changes with the touch of a finger, and that your iPhone remembers those settings, so the next time you return to your favorite places, you won’t need to make the same adjustments.

The ability to use your iPhone as an additional microphone during conversations-place it on a table at a busy restaurant and connect with friends, family, and other loved ones more clearly.

The ability to use your iPhone as a detector to find lost or misplaced hearing aids…GPS. The convenience of all of these features in one handheld, easy-to-use device that you already carry with you.

Dr. Izzy and his staff are always available to answer most of your questions regarding your hearing health.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-818-3610 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com.

Southern Campus Presents January Events

LAKEWOOD – The Cancer Support Community at Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus has these January events.

All Cancers Support Group, January 16, 23 and 30 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. This free, professionally run support group provides a safe place for individuals dealing with any type of cancer. Cancer Support Community located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood. Registration is required by calling 732-923-6090.

Gentle Yoga, January 16, 23 and 30 from 2 to 3 p.m. Gentle yoga classes for men and women of all ages who are affected by cancer will be offered. Appropriate for beginners as well as seasoned practitioners, gentle yoga classes will help participants learn how to increase flexibility, range of motion, energy and relaxation. Cancer Support Community located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood. Registration is required by calling 732-923-6090. Medical clearance is required for those currently undergoing active cancer treatments.

Exercise for Strength, January 16, 23 and 30 from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. This workout group is designed to improve energy and increase endurance and flexibility. Sneakers are required. Cancer Support Community located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood. Registration is required by calling 732-923-6090.

Relaxation and Guided Imagery, January

16, 23 and 30 from 4:30 to 5 p.m. This program is open to those affected by a cancer diagnosis. Cancer Support Community, located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood.

Registration is required by calling 732-9236090.

Coffee and a Craft, January 27 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Escape the winter weather with a warm cup of coffee and a craft. This program is designed to decrease stress. Cancer Support Community located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood. Registration is required by calling 732-923-6090.

Bingo Blast, January 20 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

All those affected by a cancer diagnosis are invited to come play bingo and have a blast.

Cancer Support Community located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood. Registration is required by calling 732-923-6090.

New Year, New You, January 25 from noon to 1 p.m. The program “New Year, New You,” a free Snack and Learn food demonstration will teach easy ways to develop a healthy diet for 2017. Participants can sample a recipe and learn how small changes can lead to huge health benefits. The program is led by Jennifer Klein, Registered Dietitian with Perlmutter ShopRite. Cancer Support Community located at 199 Prospect Street in Lakewood. Registration is required by calling 732-923-6090.

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

OCEAN COUNTY – Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 856-547-0855.

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 15

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

New Medications To Help With Dry Eyes, Seizures And Hallucinations

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. What an incredible year for pharmaceuticals. In 2016, many new and useful medications got FDA approved. My articles are syndicated worldwide, but I’m only listing English drug names so please ask your local pharmacist to translate the medication name for your country.

Happy New Year everyone!

Love, Suzy Anthim (Obiltoxaximab), Rx, Injection The Anthrax drug! While no one intentionally inhales Anthrax, the reality is that bioterrorism exists and could very well occur. So the FDA approved this injectable drug to help people who have been exposed from infected animals, contaimated animal products or from an intentional release of anthrax spores from a terrorist attack.

Once infected, irreversible damage and death usually occur, and Anthim is used to neutralize the toxin produced by Bacillus Anracis (a.k.a. Anthrax).

Xiidra (Lifitegrast), Rx, eye drops I believe in using DHA and other healthy fatty acids and natural “tear” drops to relieve dry eyes, but if you want a medication, Xiidra is now available. It blocks a protein and essentially makes you tear up more. The most common side effects are eye irritation or blurred vision and weirdly, an unusual taste sensation (termed dysgeusia) even though the drops are going into your eyes.

Adlyxin (lixisenatide), Rx, Injection This is a once-daily shot for adults with Type 2 diabetes used along with diet and exercise. It’s in the same category as another GLP-1 agonists like Victoza, Byetta and others. These drugs slow the speed at

which food is digested and leaves the stomach, so you might say they are inducing a temporary gastroparesis which can lead to digestive problems. Consider my my book on diabetes for natural options, Diabetes Without Drugs, Rodale 2010.

Nuplazid (Pimavanserin), Rx, oral tablets No one with Parkinson’s ever expects their mind to be affected, but the brain is definitely impacted and may cause hallucinations, delusions, emotional problems, altered mental status and cognitive difficulties. Nuplazid is a drug that helps treat hallucinations and delusions specifically associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Syndros (dronabinol), Rx, oral This is a liquid formulation of the pharmaceutical (not naturally derived) cannabinoid compound called “dronabinol.” This does not grow on Earth but it is the drug version of THC, which is one of the components of pot (marijuana). Everyone knows that pot gives you the munchies, and it’s no different with this drug version called dronabinol. It can help with people who have experienced weight loss due to AIDS/HIV or chemotherapy during cancer treatment.

Briviact (Brivaracetam), Rx, oral tablets This drug is taken by mouth (not injection) and it’s used to treat partial onset seizures in adolescents and adults. It doesn’t cure epilepsy, however the drugs has been shown to reduce frequency, which can be very helpful while the cause of seizures is being discovered. Side effects vary, but mostly fatigue, nausea and dizziness. Seizures occur in about 5 million people in the United States, and often cause muscle spasms, strange internal sensations, abnormal thinking and even loss of consciousness.

(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) ©2017 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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609.488.3988 • www.seaviewortho.com Seaview Pavilion 1200 Eagle Avenue Ocean, NJ, 07712

Brick Medical Arts Bldg 1640 Route 88 West Brick, NJ, 08724

Patriot’s Park 222 Schanck Road Freehold, NJ, 07728

Clearbrook Commons 294 Applegarth Road Monroe, NJ, 08831

micromediapubs.com

Page 16, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM! LOOK FOR A VARIETY OF PHOTOS SNAPPED AROUND ALL OF OCEAN COUNTY!

Search: @MICROMEDIAPUBS At The Terraces at Seacrest Village, we’re all about you.

We’re about time with the grandkids, See the Feel the lasting Difference. Difference. friendships and living life to the fullest.

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Difference. be found anywhere else. Our family-owned and operated communities are built with our residents in mind. From roomy suites, to weekly housekeeping and chef-prepared meals, to life enrichment activities, we’ve pulled out all the stops to ensure that upon arrival you don’t have a worry in the world.

Tours & Information Available Daily An Assisted Living Community

281 Mathistown Rd. Little Egg Harbor Twp., NJ 609-857-4141 • TerracesLiving.com

Dear Joel

By Joel Markel

Break Up To Make Up That’s All We Do

Dear Joel, I am concerned about my 23-year-old son. He has been dating his girlfriend for over two years. She breaks up with him repeatedly. It sometimes feels that it happens every other month. I have told him that this girl is not right for him. I have to constantly explain to family and friends why she is at some holiday dinners and not at others. If there is a family wedding, her absences are always noticed. I don’t want him hurt and am tired of how she treats him. He seems to always go back for more punishment. It makes me feel less of him and I don’t like feeling that way. Do you think it’s a good idea to speak with him?

Answer: I think that speaking to him is fine. After all, you are a concerned parent. That being said, I want to caution you about your communication style. If your plan is to say that his girlfriend is not right for him, she’s trouble, no good, etc., in

all likelihood, you will make the story worse for everyone. He already knows that you disapprove of her. I can assure you of that. He already hears your voice in his head. What I would do is make suggestions of moving towards new experiences. Have him join a gym, do volunteer work, get a second job. In everything that I mentioned he will be meeting new faces, trying new things and most likely feel better about himself. His self esteem will clearly improve. His girlfriend may find new respect for him as well. Your son is 23 and must make his own choices. If they are the wrong choices, I don’t know of anyone who has always done the right thing. I wish you and your family well.

Write to joel@preferredcares.com.

His radio show, “Preferred Company” airs on Monday through Friday from 8 to 10 a.m. on preferredradio.com and 1160 & 1310 WOBM-AM

If you or anyone else is in need of home health care, call Preferred at 732-840-5566. “Home health care with feeling. Joel Markel is President of Preferred Home Health Care and Nursing services inc. serving all of New Jersey in adult, senior and pediatric home health care.”

Lighthouse International Film Festival Submissions Open

LONG BEACH ISLAND – Lighthouse International Film Festival opened film submissions for its upcoming festival. All fees and categories are listed on the website, lighthousefilmfestival.org.

Submissions are being accepted through March 24.

The notification date is April 28.

The festival is June 8 through 11.

The festival gives the Golden Lighthouse award as selected by that year’s festival jury, as well as an audience award for best feature and best short film. Festival juries are comprised of filmmakers and industry

professionals. The LIFF jury is normally comprised primarily of filmmakers who participated in previous years of the festival.

To be eligible for entry, films must have been completed after January 1, 2016. Films shorter than 40 minutes will be eligible for the short film competition, and films over 40 minutes are eligible for the feature film competition.

The festival takes place on Long Beach Island.

Fo r m o r e i n fo r m a t io n , v i sit lighthousefilmfestival.org.

Submissions are open at filmfreeway.com/ festival/LighthouseInternationalFilmFestival.

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 17

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law We Can Assist You With Your Land Use Application Presentation Before The Board

Robert C. Shea Esq.

By Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates As the previous article relating to the land quested. These questions will vary from the use application submission process, this ar- current location, zone and use of the property ticle will review what is required to present to the benefits that the new proposed development will provide to the surrounding area. The at the hearing.

At the public hearing the applicant is re- expert will also testify as to how the application quired to make a detailed presentation to the comports with the local zoning ordinances, Board and its professionals. That presentation zoning plan and master plan, or that any devidepending on the complexities and relief ation from the same will provide a benefit that requested may require plans, aerial photos, outweighs any potential detriment. The Board color renderings, any variety of reports members, Board professionals and members of calculations or studies, and/or architectural the public will also be afforded the opportunity plans to be presented. These exhibits are to ask the Applicant’s experts questions.

The hearing is open to the public and interprepared prior to the hearing usually by the expert who performed the study or drafted ested individual shave the right to listen and the plan. They are placed on display board even participate in the hearing. An interested and many times smaller individual packets party may speak either in favor or against the can be made to hand out to the Board for application. If that interested party has a strong easier review. These exhibits are marked by objection to the application they too may retain the Secretary for identification purposes on legal counsel, and experts to provide testimony to the Board to contradict the testimony of the the record and moved into evidence.

It is required that any relief that the Applicant Applicant’s experts. After all the testimony is is requesting from the local design regula- completed and all comments are placed on the tions or zoning ordinance, in the form of a record the Board closes the public portion and design waiver or variance, requires expert begins the deliberation process.

As can be seen from the information above testimony to be presented to the Board from a professional engineer, planner or architect. the presentation of a land use application before Therefore, at the beginning of the hearing a Land Use Board requires understanding of each of the Applicant’s experts are sworn in the MLUL. The attorneys at the Law Office of and must place their credentials on the record R.C. Shea and Associates can assist to make and ask the Board to accept their testimony this process stress free. Look for future articles on the Land Use Process which will review as an expert.

Then the Applicant’s attorney and each the components of a resolution and the post expert go through a series of specific and approval compliance procedures. If you want detailed questions in order for the proper to know more call or visit our firm at 732-505proofs to be placed on the record that will 1212, located at 244 Main St. in Toms River, substantiate the granting of each relief re- or email us at rshea@rcshea.com.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 ● RCSHEA.COM

P&K FIREARMS & AMMO INC. (609) 597-4646

PAUL ORLANDO

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Page 18, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

Immediate Care Announces Opening Of Lacey Urgent Care

LACEY – Immediate Care’s newest facility in Lacey is now open. The center, located at 833 Lacey Road in the Lacey Medical Arts Building, opened its doors the first week of January. This is the company’s fifth urgent care center, adding to their other locations in Toms River, Hazlet, East Windsor and Red Bank.

Committed to providing convenient, quality medical services, Immediate Care offers treatment of nonlife threatening illnesses and injuries. From sports injuries to ear infections, their walk-in services provide patients a fast and cost-effective alternative to the emergency room. The center will be open seven days a week, including most holidays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.

Memory Changes As We Age: How To Remember The Things We Forget

In addition to urgent care, the center will also provide services such as pre-employment, sports and school physicals, occupational health services and vaccinations/immunizations. Both x-ray and laboratory services will be available on site. The center will be staffed by physicians and nurse practitioners and no appointment will be necessary.

The mission of Immediate Care is to consistently provide superior quality and compassionate care by combining medical expertise with understanding and sincerity.

They offer cost-effective and convenient services while consistently focusing on exceptional patient care.

For a full list of healthcare services or to learn more about Immediate Care, visit immcare.com.

JACKSON – Bartley Healthcare is partnering with Centrastate Medical Center to host an educational seminar to inform the community on how to make lifestyle adjustments that can help participants to compensate for attention and memory loss.

Join them to learn about how the memory works, why it changes, and what people can do to help remember the things that they forget.

Bartley is hosting the seminar at The Orchards at Bartley Assisted Living. The Orchards Assisted Living is located at 100 N. County Line Road in Jackson. The seminar will be in two parts. Part One will be on January 23 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., and Part Two will be at the same time on January 25. The presenter will be Marilyn Abrahamson from Centrastate Medical

Center. Abrahamson is a Speech-Language Pathologist at Centrastate Medical Center.

Thirteen percent of Americans, aged 60 and older, reported worsening memory loss or confusion in the previous year. One in 8 seniors reported this memory loss. The lifestyle habits that participants will learn from this seminar will help them to delay the symptoms of age-related cognitive decline. Delaying these symptoms can serve to help people maintain independence for as long as possible, or even return to work, play, and the enjoyment of every day.

Seating is limited, so anyone interested in attending the “Memory Changes As We Age” educational seminar, call Centrastate Medical Center at 732-308-0570, or visit centrastate.com, and click on Classes and Events. There will be refreshments served.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY THOMAS KENDRICK

Invisalign • Implants • Cosmetic

Home Improvements All Types of Handyman Services • Carpentry • Painting • Decks • Drywall • Kitchens • Baths LIC# 13VH04240900

732-363-3166 • Cell: 732-682-8727

ARBOR TREE SERVICE, LLC Tree Removal • Stump Grinding Tree Pruning

Christopher R. Wright, D.M.D.

219 S MAIN ST • BARNEGAT, NJ 08005 609.698.1155 • www.BaysideDentistryNJ.com

LEONARDO LGD PAINTING • Exterior Painting • Interior Painting • Power Washing • Wallpaper Removal

.com

• Decorative Moldings • Faux Painting FREE • Deck Staining ESTIMATES • Floor Epoxy

We Also Do Sheetrock & Spackle Repairs!

609-698-3999

With This Ad. Lic. No 13VH04848400

732-300-6251

FREE Estimates • Fully Insured • LIC # 13VH04006100

Since 1928

$25 OFF

PLUMBING • HEATING • COOLING

With This Ad

CALL TODAY FOR FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE

•Service Contracts • Water Heaters • Boilers • Furnaces • Air Conditioning • Gas Conversions • Tubs/Grab Bars • Sinks/Faucets • Bath & Kitchen Remodeling • FREE ESTIMATES

175 Bartley Road • Jackson, NJ 08527 732-370-4700 • www.bartleyhealthcare.com

GARAGE DOOR SPECIALISTS FREE Estimates on New Doors FREE Service Call w/Any Repair

• Garage Door Repairs • Motor Repairs & Installs • Garage & Entry Door Installs

732-352-3844 609-488-2616

www.certifiedgaragesanddoors.com Licensed & Insured, NJ#:13VH08523100

Instant Financing Available

732-349-3322 • 732-892-3322 • 732-367-3322 Ronald Schultz NJ Master Plumber Lic #12170

NJ HIC Lic# 13VH01340700

www.lezgusplumbing.com

SEASONAL CLEAN-UPS Yard Clean-Ups Tree Removal & Trimming Gutter Cleaning Mulching • Odd Jobs

609-971-0242

CASH BUYERS OF ALL SCRAP METALS DRIVE ON SCALE AVAILABLE

• Steel • Aluminum • Copper • Wire • ACR • Brass • Appliances • Batteries • Stainless Container Service Available Convenient Location On The Corner Of Rt 166 & Flint Rd 98 FLINT RD., SOUTH TOMS RIVER NJ

732.286.6358 www.tristatecarting.com

micromediapubs.com

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. 202 for more information.

Auto For Sale 2000 Ford F-250 - Super duty, supercab, XLT, long bed, 7.3L, auto, 4WD, power windows, seats, locks, Cap with tool boxes. 8 1/2 Ft Western Plow. 240,000mi. $7,000 OBO. 732-684-4922. (t/n)

For Rent Furnished Home - To share in Holiday City. $650/month plus 1/2 all utilities. Private bedroom and bathroom. Female preferred. 732-977-7321.

(5) Forked River - 2 BD plus den, 1 bath, fireplace, shed, gas heat, AC, rock yard, fire pit. No smoking. No pets. $1,500. 1-888-894-1383. (4)

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. 732-364-7580. (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, 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)

Help Wanted HVAC Service Tech/Installers Hiring now. Experience a plus, will train. Great work environment. Company vehicle. Year round/paid holidays. 401K/benefits avail. Call 732-349-1448 or fax resume 732-349-6448.

(7) 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) Now Hiring Property Inspectors- FT/ PT in your area. Full, free training provided. jim.g59@comcast.net or msangelabove@comcast.net. 732-7664425, 201-259-0734. Ask for Mel. (t/n) Secretary - seeking responsible individual with good phone skills. Experience a plus, will train. Good work environment. 401K/Benefits available.

7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Paid holidays.

Call 732-349-1448 or Fax resume 732-349-6448.

(7) All American Home Health Care Experienced home health aides, housekeepers available. Live in or hourly. Skip the rest, come right to the best. Satisfaction guaranteed. Veteran/senior discounts. Call 732-664-3605 or 732-604-6809 or 732-693-1739.

(5) My 2 Girls Cleaning Service Let us clean your home to take away the dust along with keeping the winter blues away. Weekly, monthly. Call Donna 732-914-8909, 732-232-7058.

Bonded and insured. Same teams.

Reasonable, reliable, references.

(7) Part Time/Per Diem Driver - transport consumers to & from mental health facility in Brick. Split a.m.

(7 to 9)/p.m. shifts (2:45 to 4:45).

Drive company owned van. Clean valid driver’s license required. (No CDL needed). Ideal for retired individual. Fax resume to 732-2559034 or call 732-255-9102, ext. 4 for more information.

(4) Housekeeper Wanted - For private home Jackson/New Egypt area and day a week. Must love animals. References required. Call Mitch 609-758-9089, ext. 1.

(4)

U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l types: collectibles, military, etc.

Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

All In 1 Handyman/General Contracting - Painting, kitchens, bath, basements, etc. Remodeled, flooring, carpentry, roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters, etc. “Any to do list.”

No job too big or small, we do it all. $ave - Veterans discount. Call Clark 732-850-5060.

(5)

Help Wanted

Services

Micromedia Publications is seeking part-time creative writers to craft colorful and informative business and professional profiles for our advertisers. This is an excellent opportunity for those with excellent writing skills to earn supplemental income or to build their portfolios in a variety of fields such as news or advertising. For more information or to submit your resume and writing samples for consideration, please email: agradzki@micromediapubs.com.

Submissions without writing samples and resume WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE! (t/n)

Roofing Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows, gutters. Repairs and discounted new installations. Prompt service.

Insured. NJ license #13HV01888400.

Special winter discounts. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391.

(6)

Taxi Drivers Wanted - Must be dependable and know Ocean County.

Able to pass background check. F/T, P/T, days, nights. 732-477-4531. (3)

C lassifieds Services

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Celebrating almost five decades of service. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice. com. See all our anniversary and monthly specials. 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) Carpet Repair - Restretching, ripples removed, repair work, stairs installed.

Call Mike at 732-920-3944. (3) Caulking - Interior, bathrooms, kitchens, etc. Cutting out old. Installing new. Call Steve 732-703-8120. Thank You. (t/n) Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured.

Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) Handyman and More - From painting to plumbing. Also, clean-ups and clean-outs. Junk removal. Hauling.Whatever you need. Assurance, LLC. Lic#13VH05930800.

732-678-7584, Tony. (t/n) Don Carnevale Painting - Specializing in interiors/exteriors.

Very neat. Special senior discounts.

Reasonable, affordable, insured.

References. Low winter rates.

License #13VH3846900. 732-8994470 or 732-814-4851.

(6) Computer Tutoring for Seniors – Retired, “Microsoft Certified” instructor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n) Autobody Work - $99 any dent big or small, professionally done. We come to you. Serving Ocean and Monmouth counties. 347-744-7409. (t/n) Need A Ride - Airports, cruise, A.C. Save $$$. Senior discounts. Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227.

(3) Electrician - Licensed/Insured. Will do the jobs the big guys don’t want. Free estimates, senior discount. Call Bob 732608-7702. LIC #12170.

(11) Gerard’s Watch & Jewelry Repair - Master watch maker. Expert battery replacement. 908-507-3288.

864 West Hill Plaza, 37W. Next to Window Happenings store.

(6) We Unclog All Drains - Including main sewer lines. Toilets repaired and replaced and more. Assurance Drain, LLC. Lic#13VH05930800 732-678-7584, Tony. (t/n)

Wallpaper and Bordering - Hanging and removal of old. No job too big or small. Great references.

Call Angela 609-891-8544.

(43)

Caregiver - RN 25 years in Ukraine plus 15 years U.S. eldercare experience. References. Live-in/out, or hourly. LVW (Manchester, NJ) owner resident. Call Lucy 732-657-1409, home. 732-833-3273, cell.

(3)

All In 1 Handyman/General Contracting - Painting, kitchens, baths, basements, etc. Remodeled, flooring, carpentry, roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters. “Any to do list.” No job too small. $ave Call Clark 732-850-5060.

(2)

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.

(45)

Painting - I will paint your rooms. Very good prices. Call 732-552-7513. (26)

House Cleaning - I will clean home. Very good prices. Call 732-552-7513.

(51)

The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 19

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

2.

Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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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 = $ *In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad

Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:

Credit Card#

Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

OR BRING TO: 15 Union Ave., Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

5. MAIL Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388.

Or go to micromediapubs.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER

(THIS IS REQUIRED)

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE. If you have any questions, please call Ali at 732-657-7344, ext. 203.

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Page 20, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD

Across 1 Drain problem 5 GI sought by MPs 9 Jewish authority figure 14 Fallon’s predecessor 15 “Get a __!”

16 Estate measures 17 Like single-malt scotch 18 Superfluous individual 20 Food from heaven 22 Long-necked bird 23 Ivy League school 24 Compilation of wacky outtakes 28 Pioneer Carson 29 PC key near Z 30 Eastern path 31 Police warnings 33 Some deli breads 35 Part on the stage 38 Stable female

39 Summer blouse 42 Steer clear of 44 iPhone voice-activated app 45 Hunk of bacon 49 Like many warm sweaters 51 Snaky fish 53 Miner’s discovery 54 Little terror 55 Olympian’s achievement 59 Have to have 61 Flight connection word 62 Capital of Senegal 63 Ride around ... or what the ends of 18-, 24-, 39- and 55-Across can do 67 Single 68 Occupied 69 Currency symbolized by € 70 Coffee holders 71 Fax forerunner 72 Zipped 73 Editor’s “Leave

PUZZLE

it in” Down 1 Seaside eatery 2 Within the law 3 Without variation, musically 4 “Please tell me that’s not true” 5 Sitcom E.T. 6 PlayStation 3 rival 7 Put on the market 8 “I’ll handle this” 9 Word before data or deal 10 In need of aspirin 11 Crashing wave 12 Direct route 13 Lands in the sea 19 Shades 21 Abbr. in many an urban address 25 __ of Sandwich 26 Tree anchors 27 Airport waiter 32 Performs hip-hop music 34 Synagogue

36 Polynesian wreath 37 Blundered 40 From square one 41 Concert ticket info 42 “__ to Watch Over Me” 43 Optimistic 46 “Watch it!”

47 Orchestrate 48 Recuperation advice 49 Proceed without preparation 50 Smoked salmon 52 Showed the way 56 Hemingway’s “The Sun Also __” 57 Really enjoy, as praise 58 Allays the fears of 60 Prescription amount 64 Bills coach Ryan 65 Wrath 66 Buddy of Wynken and Blynken

(c)2017 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

SKULK LUNGE MEASLY CACTUS -- THE “KEY” TO SUCCESS

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 21

Free Income Tax Preparation

OCEAN COUNTY – The AARP and IRS have teamed up to sponsor free income tax preparations across southern Ocean County.

These locations will be open at the listed times from February 6 through April 13.

Monday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Mary’s of the Pines Parish Church, 100 Bishops Lane, Manahawkin. Walk-ins welcome.

This location will be closed February 20.

Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Village Lutheran Church, 701 Western Blvd., Lanoka Harbor. Walk-ins welcome.

Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. Theresa’s Church Faith Formation Center, 450 Radio Road, Little Egg Harbor, Mystic Island.

Walk-ins welcome.

Wednesday, 1 to 5 p.m., Perry’s Lake Club House, 4 Princeton Ave., Manahawkin.

Appointments only. Call 609-978-7554.

Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Mary’s of the Pines Parish Church, 100 Bishops Lane, Manahawkin. Walk-ins welcome.

This location will be closed April 6 and 13.

The last day for taxes done at this location is March 30.

Clients must arrive at least one hour before closing time to ensure there is sufficient time to complete the taxes.

Clients should bring: a copy of their previous year’s federal and NJ tax returns; their social security card and photo ID; all W2s; all 1099s and 1099Rs; social security statements (SSA-1099); health insurance information, form 1095S; all medical expenses and mileage; all tax related statements; a check to verify information for direct deposit of refund or PTR booklet and primary residence real estate tax bill.

For more information, call 609-294-0730.

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE! Visit: MICROMEDIAPUBS.COM

Mets V. Phillies Trip

WARETOWN – The Township of Ocean Recreation will host a trip to see the NY Mets v. the Philadelphia Phillies on April 10.

The cost is $42 per person, which includes transportation and game ticket. Tickets are in left field, section 243, rows 6 to 8.

There is a $30 nonrefundable deposit.

The bus will leave the community center, 239 11th St., at 4:30 p.m. Guests must arrive by 4:15 p.m.

Game time is 7:05 p.m.

Guests may bring food and coolers on the bus. Citizens Bank Park permits ticket holders to bring in food and unopened plastic bottled non-alcoholic beverages. Coolers must be “soft-sided.”

To receive a registration form, write to recreation@twpoceannj.gov. Payments should be sent to Twp. of Ocean – c/o Recreation, 50 Railroad Ave., Waretown, NJ 08758. Make checks payable to Twp. of Ocean Recreation.

Special Election

OCEAN COUNTY – Voters in Little Egg Harbor, Tuckerton and Eagleswood will be voting in a special election on January 24.

The election will decide whether the Pinelands Regional School District can make

improvements on buildings throughout the district.

The polls are open from 2 to 8 p.m.

Sample ballots may be found at clerk. co.ocean.nj.us.

Adult Writers’ Group

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Long Beach Island branch of the Ocean County Library will hold an adult writers’ group on January 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. The li-

brary is located at 217 S. Central Ave. in Surf City.

All are welcome. The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Island Library.

Friends Book Sale

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Friends of the Island Library is holding a book sale on January 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. The library is located at 217 S. Central Ave.

in Surf City.

Get six books for $1 and help the Friends of the Island Library continue to provide great programs and support.

Movie: Selma

WARETOWN – In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, watch this powerful historical drama depicting the marches from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., to secure voting rights for black people.

The movie is rate PG-13 and runs 130

minutes.

The movie will be shown on January 16 at 6 p.m. at the Waretown branch of the Ocean County Library, 112 Main St. Registration is required at theoceancountylibrary.org.

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Movie Discussion: Bridges Of Madison County

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – The Little Egg Harbor branch of the Ocean County Library will hold a movie discussion on “Bridges of Madison County” on January 14 from 1 to

3 p.m. The movie is rated PG-13 and runs 129 minutes.

Registration is required at theoceancountylibrary.org.

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Page 22, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

Il Giardinello Ristorante

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www.ilgiardinello.com – GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

Oyster Creek Caring: A Yearlong Community Commitment

FORKED RIVER – This holiday season, 240 needy children in the area received gift bags filled with toys, clothing and much-needed winter outerwear, thanks to the donations of Oyster Creek employees through the station’s annual Angel Tree Project.

These gifts, given to Ocean County’s Head Start program, the Lacey Food Bank and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, are just a small example of Oyster Creek’s strong giving culture.

“Exelon is a leading contributor to the United Way and has made a significant impact on improving the lives of Ocean and Monmouth County residents,” said Timothy C. Hearne, President and CEO of United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. “In addition to their annual employee giving campaign, which this year brought in over $285,000, the men and women of Oyster Creek volunteer their time and actively participate in campaigns like our school supply drives and holiday giving programs, which, again,

improve the lives of so many.”

In 2016, Oyster Creek gave more than $353,000 back to the community through employee giving and Exelon’s corporate contributions. Oyster Creek is the signature sponsor of Lacey Township’s Independence Day Celebration. The station partners with Southern Ocean Medical Center, by sponsoring a Nourishment Room in the hospital’s Emergency Center and by donating to the hospital’s Lights of Life event. Oyster Creek also is a regular contributor to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, local first response organizations and numerous recreational and youth organizations.

What’s more, employees volunteered more than 1,000 hours of their time and talents for special events, like the New Jersey Special Olympics annual Polar Plunge and the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk. Through company-sponsored volunteer days, employees are encouraged to take time from their regular jobs and work as a team on community improvement projects. This year, employees helped make over the Lighthouse Center in Waretown, Meadow Edge in Barnegat Township, facilitated a waterside cleanup with the New Jersey Recreational Fishing Alliance and sponsored and participated in the annual Fish Hawks Youth Fishing Seminar.

“It is our business to generate electricity, safely and reliably. It is our obligation to be an exceptional neighbor. The men and women of Oyster Creek are committed to helping others and improving our communities,” said Site Vice President Garey Stathes.

OCL Puppet Players Present: The Princess And The Pony

WARETOWN – The Toms River Library will host the OCL Puppet Players, who will present “The Princess and the Pony,” on January 19 from 11 a.m. to noon. The library is located at 112 Main St. Registration is required at theoceancountylibrary.org. Registration holds a space for five minutes after the scheduled start of the program.

Princess Pinecone’s birthday is coming up.

She would like nothing more than to have a new pony. However, her parents surprise her with a pony that doesn’t quite meet her expectations... How will Princess Pinecone become the warrior Viking she is destined to be with a horse like that? The play is based upon the book by Kate Beaton.

Monday Movies

BARNEGAT – The Barnegat branch of the Ocean County Library hosts Monday Movies at 1 p.m., located at112 Burr St. On January 16, the library will show Hell or High Water, which is rated R and runs 102 minutes.

Patrons are invited to bring snacks. No registration is required.

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The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017, Page 23

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of Januay 14-January 20.

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): A neat desk indicates a disciplined mind, but some clutter might prove you are busy. Your work will benefit from orderliness and organization. Focus on establishing routines in the week to come.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Consider your words carefully in the week to come. Routine conversations may be taken the wrong way and drive a wedge between you and others. Put off crucial agreements, and meetings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Flowers don’t bloom unless a little rain falls. The few frustrations you experience in the week ahead will be worth the result. Forge forward fearlessly but don’t spend money too freely.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Steer clear of mean memes and disruptive debates. You may easily meet up with people suffering from chip-on-shoulder syndrome in the week ahead. You may be challenged to exert your authority.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Remain alert to nuances. Even in the midst of difficulties you may derive valuable insights in the upcoming week. Even when jobs seem overwhelming you will learn something new.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It is best to be sincere and to the point this week.

Focus on making the best of uncertain situations without getting flustered. If work was always fun, you would pay to do it and not the reverse.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may feel like a social diva that amuses others in the week to come but it is possible that not everyone is impressed by your antics.

People are easily provoked but may hide their animosity.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Brains and brawn create an unbeatable combination. Your financial ambitions can be realized in the week ahead if you persevere.

You can easily cope with heavy obligations.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): To get where you want to go you must do what you like the least. No one ever said that achieving your ambitions would be fun.

Focus on putting forth your best efforts in the week ahead.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Quickly shifting conditions might shift your focus this week. Wait for better timing to enter into important agreements or make major investments. Family members may act unpredictably.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Snap decisions could be necessary this week, just don’t snap at those around you. Use tough-minded business tactics to fix problems. Don’t procrastinate about making a sincere apology.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Hide and seek. You may veil your innermost thoughts with some people, but your sensitivity may emerge under the right circumstances.

Avoid making drastic financial decisions this week.

(c) 2017 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

BlueClaws To Host Job Fair

LAKEWOOD – The BlueClaws will be holding their annual Job Fair on February 4 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. where the team will be interviewing applicants for part-time, seasonal positions. These positions will run from April through the conclusion of the season in September.

“Our gameday staff members play a vital role in the overall success of our operation,” said BlueClaws General Manager Chris Tafrow. “This event is of vital importance for us in helping to fi nd staffers that possess the skills, attitude, and work ethic necessary to be a successful BlueClaws team member.”

At the Job Fair, the team will be interviewing for the following positions: Ushers, Security, Parking Attendants, Food & Beverage (including concession stand employees, back-of-house staff, runners, vendors, and portable operators), Bat Boys, Kids Zone Staffers, Clean Team, Ticket Tackers, Production Staffers, Promotions Staffers and Merchandise.

The BlueClaws have 15 gameday staff members have been with the club since their 2001 inception.

Job Applications: Applications can be found at milb.com/documents/4/8/8/107807488/ Gameday_ Staff _ Application_ct2lwck8. pdf. Fill out this application and this interested positions form. They can be brought to the Job Fair itself and filling them out in advance will expedite the interview process.

All of the positions being offered will pay $8.44/hour and all applicants must be at least 16 years of age (Bat Boys may be 15 years of age).

It is highly recommended that interested applicants come to the Job Fair itself and are encouraged to arrive early. Interviews will be conducted in the order in which the applicants arrive.

Positions are extremely limited, but all that attend will receive an interview.

With any questions regarding the Job Fair, please call the main office at 732-901-7000 option 3.

Fishing Flea Market

TOMS RIVER – The New Jersey Beach Buggy Association and Toms River South High School Fishing Club will be cohosting the 2017 Fishing Flea Market on January 28 in the Toms River South High School

cafeteria from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Guests should use the Melrose Drive entrance that is off Hooper Avenue.

General admission is $3. Children 12 and younger enter free.

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

wolfgang puck’s kitchen

This Year, Get Acquainted With A Grain From The Past

By Wolfgang Puck

I’ve made more than a few New Year’s resolutions in the past. And, like most people, I can probably count on one hand those I’ve successfully kept for more than a few weeks. But I’m happy to report that one I’ve managed to stick to has been to eat more healthfully - a goal with which so many of us struggle.

What I’ve learned is that the bigger any goal is, the harder it becomes to keep. Promise publicly that you’re going to revolutionize your daily diet overnight, or lose an enormous amount of weight quickly, and you increase the likelihood of failure. After all, with such lofty definitions of success, even one tiny slip-up can seem like disaster.

Set more reasonable goals, though, and you increase the chance that you can enjoy small victories that build your resolve almost every day. The result can be real, positive results.

Little changes in the way you eat can help you build a foundation for weight loss and more vital health. Decide to choose leaner cuts of meat, for example, or eat a low-fat vegetarian main dish once or more per week, or have fresh fruit for dessert, and you can gradually, successfully change your eating habits.

Even introducing a healthy new side dish can make a difference. Take, for example, my recipe for farro and root vegetable pilaf.

Farro, an ancient ancestor of wheat that you can find in the rice and grains section of many well-stocked supermarkets today, has a satisfying, earthy, nutty f lavor and a chewy texture that makes it a pleasure to eat. In the following recipe, it forms the foundation for an earthy, nutty, f lavorful side dish that is rich in fiber and other nutrients while being remarkably lean - with fewer than 25 percent of the calories coming from fat. Enjoy it in place of the usual buttered white rice or mashed potatoes you might usually ser ve, and you’re already on your way to a healthier diet.

The dish is remarkably f lexible, too. I often like to top it with grilled seafood, poultry or lean meat for a one-dish meal. You could add or substitute other hardy vegetables you like for those included in the pilaf here; and replace some or all of the water with vegetable stock or chicken stock to give the farro even more f lavor. Add different herbs or spices you prefer. And I like to use

leftovers, or an extra batch I cook at the same time, to serve cold as a salad, drizzling a low-fat dressing on top.

I hope you’ll feel inspired to make this healthy recipe one of your own. Who knows? It could become the start of a whole new healthy way of eating.

FARRO AND ROOT VEGETABLE PILAF Serves 4 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more if serving the pilaf cold 1 large organic carrot, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice 1 large organic celery stalk, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice 1 medium yellow onion, cut into 1/4inch (6-mm) dice 1 small fennel bulb, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice 1 garlic clove, finely chopped (optional) 1/2 pound (250 g) uncooked far ro, about 1 1/4 cups (310 mL) 2 quarts (2 L) water Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley, or julienned fresh basil leaves, or other leafy greens In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

When it is hot enough to swirl easily and shimmers slightly, add the diced carrot, celery, onion and fennel.

Saute until the vegetables are tender-crisp and lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes, taking care to stir frequently and adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent the vegetables from scorching before they’re done. If you like, stir in the garlic just until fragrant.

Add the farro to the pan and stir until it is lightly toasted, darkening slightly in color and giving off a nutty fragrance, about 1 minute. Add the water, season lightly to taste with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to very low, cover the pan, and simmer gently until the farro is tender but still slightly chewy, about 25 minutes.

Pour the farro-and-vegetable mixture into a fine-meshed strainer to drain off any excess liquid. Return the pilaf to the pot, cover, and keep warm until serving time.

To serve, taste and adjust the seasonings, if necessary, with a little more salt and pepper. Transfer it to a heated bowl. Garnish with the fresh herbs or greens and serve immediately.

(Chef Wolfgang Puck’s TV series,“Wolfgang Puck’s Cooking Class,” airs Sundays on the Food Network. Also, his latest cookbook, “Wolfgang Puck Makes It Easy,” is now available in bookstores. Write Wolfgang Puck in care of Tribune Media Services Inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207) © 2017 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 24, The Southern Ocean Times, January 14, 2017

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