2017-12-30 - The Toms River Times

Vol. 13 - No. 35

In This Week’s Edition

THE TOMS RIVER

TIMES

Your FREE Weekly Hometown Newspaper For Toms River, Island Heights, Ortley Beach & Lavallette

jerseyshoreonline.com

Community News!

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

Pages 12-17.

2017’s News In Photos

Looking back on this year’s journalism, there were dozens of photographs that I thought needed to be commended for their creativity, artistic quality, and ability to tell a story. All of them accompanied a news article, but not all of them have been published. Here’s a year-end showcase of our best photography.

By Chris Lundy, News Editor

| December 30, 2017

Toms River’s Top Stories Of 2017

(Photos - See Pages 4-5)

Letters Page 8.

Government Page 9.

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

Happy New Year!

8 Resolutions That Matter

Page 18.

Dear Pharmacist

–Photo by Jennifer Peacock The Cathedral Of The Air is visited by Navy Lakehurst Historical Society president Carl Jablonski (and a serviceman who moved while the photo was being taken, making him look like a ghost).

Cheese Genes, Video Addition And Missing Toenails, Oh My!

–Photo by Chris Lundy Olivia, Melissa, and John Covino welcome service dog Oliver, the new member of their family.

Page 19.

Inside The Law

Choosing The Right Automobile Insurance Will Protect Your Family And Assets

Page 24.

Classifieds

–Photo by Chris Lundy Artist Stig Vederso set up his tent at the Art in the Park, overlooking the bridge in Huddy Park.

–Photo by Bob Vosseller Crisafio Carnelina, a member of the folkloric group Città di Tropea from the Region of Calabria, Italy performs in the Columbus Day parade.

Page 25.

Fun Page Page 30.

Wolfgang Puck

Kid Corner: Thumbprint Cookies Give Kids A Hands-On Holiday Baking Experience

Page 31.

Horoscope Page 31.

250th Birthday The old town looks good for 250 years old.

Residents celebrated the semiquincentennial anniversary of when Dover Township became its own municipality in 1767. It was renamed Toms River relatively recently.

(2017 - See Page 6)

Page 21.

Business Directory

–Photo courtesy OCVTS Audio Engineering was added in 2016 as a fourth discipline for Performing Arts Academy students.

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – In this look back on the biggest stories of 2017, there was a mix of good news and bad. Some of it depends on your perspective. But, it’s plain to see there were a lot of events this year that made history.

–Photo by Jennifer Peacock The fishing vessel Tenacity comes in before sunrise at the Manasquan Inlet.

–Photo by Jennifer Peacock Audience members hold hands in prayer, praying in Jesus’ name to combat drugs and strengthen communities.

✓ We buy all makes & models - even if leased or financed ✓ In and out in 20 minutes (FREE ride home) ✓ Free online quote in minutes! ✓ We pay the highest possible price

Naming Rights – And More – In Deal With TR Schools And RWJBarnabas Health

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – RWJBarnabas Health will be the “official healthcare partner” of the Toms River Regional School District, in an agreement voted upon at the Dec. 20 Board of Education meeting.

This is a five-year agreement that begins on Jan. 1, 2018. It will provide $637,500 over the course of those five (Naming - See Page 11)

452 RT 37 E • TOMS RIVER, NJ CALL DIRECT @ 732.504.6200

www.1800CarCashNJ.com SELL YOUR CAR TODAY!

Page 2, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

I

f you are between the ages of 35 and 79 your doctor suspects you may have lung cancer, consider participating in a clinical research study to help in the advancement of diagnostic testing and cancer detection.

This study requires only a single visit where a blood sample will be taken. To participate, you must have CT suspicion of lung cancer or have a recent CT showing a pulmonary nodule > 4mm.

Financial compensation will be provided to qualified participants. Learn more today about how you can participate in this study and help shape the future of cancer research.

jerseyshoreonline.com

LEARN HOW

YOU CAN

CONTRIBUTE

TO THE FUTURE

OF CANCER

DIAGNOSTICS. CALL 1-917-446-1139 OR VISIT DR. VINAY SIKAND 508 LAKEHURST ROAD, SUITE A-1

TOMS RIVER, NJ 08755

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 3

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 4, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

JEFFERS ALUMINUM & REMODELING SUNROOMS

SCREENROOMS

10’ X 16’ Sunroom on

10’ X 16’ Screenroom on

Existing Deck or Slab

Existing Deck or Slab

$15,779.00

$8,944.00

or *$272.98 for 84 Months

or *$154.73 for 84 Months

PATIO COVERS

LOW REDUCED RATE* KITCHEN

RAILING

–Photo by Sara Grillo The Manasquan Reservoir was photographed for a story about the proposed Capital to the Coast Trail that would run through the area.

Check Out Our Video On Our Website!

We will NOT be undersold on RAILING comparable 48” Platform with 1 material & STEP White or Black jobs!

Aluminum $396.00 White Vinyl $480

BATH 5’ x 8’ Bathroom

$9,485.00

–Photo by Catherine Galioto The old AT&T building sits in the marshland of Good Luck Point in Berkeley.

–Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn JonMarco Gaydos, 14, of Brick, is one of the top-ranked athletes in the sport of freestyle scooter riding.

Includes New Tub or Shower w/ Fiberglass Walls, Tile Floor, New Toilet & 30” Vanity & Top or *$164.09 for 84 Months

10’ X 10’ Kitchen Installed $8,995.00 or *$155.61 for 84 Months

Includes Cabinets & Level 1 Granite Counter-Top Reconnection of plumbing in original location. Appliances not included.

10 SilverLine by Andersen Replacement Windows w/LoE & Argon $4,200.00 Installed or *$72.66 for 84 Months

–Photo by Chris Lundy –Photo by Chris Lundy Crew members bring a pirate ship Kites are silhouetted against the sky during the in at the Toms River Wooden Boat Kites and Cones event in Ortley Beach.

Festival.

732-657-9000

*MENTION YOU SAW THIS AD IN THE TIMES!* 2486 Ridgeway Blvd • Manchester, NJ 08759

www.jeffersaluminum.com NJ Reg. No. 13VH06629600

*Fixed APR during the life of the loan. Subject to qualifying credit approval. Financing for GreenSky® consumer credit programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex or familial status.

–Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn This abandoned home at 533 Central Ave. in Brick was slated for demolition.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 5

–Photo by Chris Lundy Project engineer Stuart Challoner shows plans for a 74-unit condo complex on Route 9 to neighbors outside the Berkeley Township Zoning Board of Adjustment.

–Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Applicant Charles Messano, president of Main Street Tuckerton, LLC, a construction company that specializes in raising houses, holds photos of the two structures he wants to demolish to make room for his building.

–Photo by Bob Vosseller Resident Richard Belmonte joins his 2-year-old daughter Olivia, who is enjoying spraying water at a display board with the help of Cassville firefighter Mitch Worbettz, during National Night Out.

–Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn In Brick, a steel wall in the beachfront was put in place to increase coastal storm resiliency. A federal dune project was awarded a contract to add 22-foot dunes along the entire barrier island.

–Photo by Chris Lundy An unfamiliar angle of a familiar recreation spot in the woods between Berkeley and Lacey townships, known as the trestle.

–Photo by Chris Lundy Growth among the graves, as a tree makes its way through the concrete in the cemetery behind the Old Baptist Church in Stafford.

–Photo by Jennifer Peacock Jaxon, a robot representing the work of Jackson’s STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) program, leads the pledge of allegiance. Behind him is STEM curriculum coordinator Robert Rotante.

–Photo by Chris Lundy A foul ball sits outside a ballfield at the Lower Shore Road Sports Complex in Barnegat.

–Photo by Chris Lundy Children jump off of the miniature cliff left from erosion in Ortley Beach.

–Photo by Chris Lundy These binoculars look out over the Barnegat Bay from the newly renovated Bayshore Park in Lacey.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 6, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

2017: Continued From Page 1 Special events were held throughout the year, such as historical talks and special ceremonies. Events that would have happened normally, such as the Food Fest in the summer, were attended by historical commission members to educate the public on the town’s history.

Eagle Ridge Approved Residents, already feeling the walls of development coming in from all sides, were upset that the former Eagle Ridge Golf Course in Lakewood was going to be the site of about 1,800 homes, plus assorted other buildings. Residents from several nearby towns pointed to problems with the application, which included the impact on the environment, but especially the impact on traffic.

Ultimately, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection published an “intent to settle,” which reduced the headcount to a total of 1,034 units, plus five community center buildings, a clubhouse, a 23,387 square foot retail building and another 44,677 square-foot retail building.

Opioid Epidemic Heroin, often mixed with fentanyl, has

become an epidemic in Ocean County.

Hundreds of people have died of overdoses, and hundreds more have had their lives saved by Narcan sprays administered by fi rst responders.

Local police have combatted the problem by increasing drug education in schools and cracking down even harder on dealers.

They are also differentiating between the crimes of dealing drugs and possessing drugs. Those who are caught up in addiction are being given another chance by coming into certain police departments and being evaluated for free rehab. They turn in all their drugs and they don’t face any charges under the Blue HART (Heroin Addiction Recovery Treatment) program. Brick, Manchester, Stafford, Lacey, and Ocean Gate are now part of this program.

The root cause to the epidemic is addiction to prescription painkillers, police said. That’s why there are places to drop off unused medications for the police to burn and keep it out of the hands of addicts. Also, Toms River, Brick and Lacey have joined a lawsuit against pharmaceutical companies to recoup costs from dealing with this epidemic, and to force those companies to change the way they market their medicines to everyone.

Performing Arts Academy A new Performing Arts Academy building for the Ocean County Vocational-Technical School was announced. Currently, the Performing Arts Academy is housed in Hangar 1 of the Joint Base-McGuire/Dix/Lakehurst.

Its lease will be expiring soon. Additionally, with added security regulations, parents and staff have said that location is not as convenient as it once was.

Students will select from four majors: theater, vocal, dance and audio engineering.

This would be in addition to its academic curriculum. The 60,000-square-foot building is expected to open in 2019. It will be located on the campus of Ocean County College. The goal is to create a continuity of education, so that OCC classes can be taught to high school students. The high school and the college students would be able to share facilities, although not at the same time.

The Ocean County Freeholders created a $27 million bond to pay for the school. They committed $8 million of its total cost. The state of New Jersey will be paying 40 percent of the project, or $10.6 million. The Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation has pledged $8 million.

Todd Frazier A Yankee Local star Todd Frazier joined the New York Yankees. The 31-year-old was part of the internationally famous Toms River team that won the 1998 Little League World Series.

He had been playing for the Chicago White Sox, but was acquired by the Yankees as part of an exchange that carried teammates David Robertson and Tommy Kahnle to New York, and Chicago received Tyler Clippard, Ian Clarkin, Blake Rutherford and Tito Polo.

(2017 - See Page 10)

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 7

What to expect during your consultation

Patients are greeted with a smile by a dedicated and loving staff that understands what individuals in pain are experiencing. Each has a deep commitment to your health and to you as a person. During your visit you will receive personalized attention from a seasoned staff of medical doctors, physical therapists and acupuncturists. An analysis of your condition by the medical team in conjunction with a detailed treatment plan will be described in as much detail as possible. There is no pressure to accept treatment as the staff at Northeast Spine and Sports Medicine strives to create a relaxed environment by educating patients about their options. The ultimate decision maker is the patient.

Call Today!

“We are so confident that you will find healing and relief at our office that we are offering you a FREE step one evaluation and consultation. We will personally review a full health analysis questionnaire, evaluate your condition and determine how we can help you. There are no strings attached and you have no obligation. Don’t live with pain, fear and doubt any longer. Pick up the phone and take control of your life right now. You have nothing to lose but your pain. Time slots fill quickly so call today to secure your FREE step one consultation.”

– Stacey Franz, DO Kevin Hsu, MD James Kirk, DC Dimitrios Lambrou, DC Lambros Lambrou, DC Faisal Mahmood, MD Mitchell Pernal, DC Michael Ra, DO

We offer 6 locations for your convenience: JACKSON • 728 Bennets Mills Road • 732-415-1401 | POINT PLEASANT • 1104 Arnold Avenue • 732-714-0070 BARNEGAT • 175 Gunning River Rd • 609-660-0002 | MONROE • 350 Forsgate Drive • 732-521-9222 MANCHESTER • 60 Lacey Road • 732-408-4492 | ABERDEEN • 557 S. Atlantic Avenue • 732-997-4988

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 8, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

F EATURED L ETTER Remember The Golden Rule The golden r ule/the law of equal return is to treat every human being as you would want to be treated, because what good a nd what ha r m you measure to every hu man bei ng will be measured back to you by the creator over all you r lifetimes in the human condition.

The golden r ule/the law of equal return as p r o p e rly u nd e r s t o o d in the Ser mon on the Mount is the only un-

derstanding that keeps one human being from inf licting harm or death upon any human being.

The admonition to turn the other cheek and to love one’s enemies can only be realistically understood in this context.

It is the law of equal return that is the motivation to live the golden rule and to put an end to v iolence i n hu ma n society.

Ray Kalainikas Manalapan

W� W������ L������ T� T�� E�����!

The Toms River 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.

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them.

Names will not be withheld from publication. 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 news@jerseyshoreonline. com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS, INC. MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES BRICK TIMES • JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES P.O. Box 521 • 15 Union Ave. • Lakehurst, NJ 08733

Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 e-mail: news@jerseyshoreonline.com jerseyshoreonline.com

Stewart Swann, President & Publisher Robyn Weber, Vice-President Jason Allentoff, GM/Editor-In-Chief Allison Gradzki, Production Manager Adriana Starcic, Graphic Artist Maria Toensmann, Layout Artist Chris Lundy, News Editor Kimberly Bosco, Assistant News Editor Laura Hoban, Distribution Manager OFFICE CLOSED: Saturday and Sunday

Published Weekly.

Copyright by Micromedia Publications, Inc. All material printed in The Toms River Times is copyrighted by Micromedia Publications, Inc. unless otherwise noted. The reproduction of the contents, in full or in part, is prohibited, unless permission is granted by Micromedia Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Letters To The Editor DACA Should Not Be Made Legal There are an estimated 800,000 who entered this country illegally with their parents over many years and were delayed deportation by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) executive order. Contrary to what Rep. MacArthur writes, here is why they can never be permitted legal residence: First, they would all qualify for diversity preference for college, job, contract applications and benefits at every level of government. In short, they move to the head of the line.

Second, according to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, aside from being massive users of public services for which they pay little or no taxes, 75 percent respond that government should do “more” for them.

Third, as citizens, they would vote to impose their demands on the rest of society.

Fourth, they would likely sponsor family members, including their own parents, for citizenship (“chain migration”) with the same consequences as above.

Fifth, it would set an example for others to enter the country illegally.

Sixth, several advocacy groups formed by DACANs have been agitating loudly for their “rights” even though they have no legal status in this country. If granted citizenship or any form of legal status, they will hammer the courts with endless demands to expand their benefits and privileges.

That’s what happened after the 1986 amnesty which, by the way, was estimated to cover 1 million illegals and wound up being 4 million.

There are currently 35 million of Mexican ancestry who claim US citizenship – 11% of the population. The vast majority didn’t come through Ellis Island. They outnumber citizens who claim Italian or Irish ancestry. 76% of DACANs are Mexican citizens, 90% Latino. Their home countries did nothing to prevent them from coming. In fact, at one time Mexico actually printed instructions.

If you like having your citizenship and patrimony marginalized, just let the politicians give it away for you.

C. Crowley Toms River

Letters To ofThe Editor these abuses occurred Concealed Carry A Veteran On Kneeling During Anthem

I was a Marine at Chu Lai on guard duty at a low risk bunker post on the perimeter facing the South China Sea. Viet Cong that did not have weapons and carried explosive charges to blow up targets were getting on base that week.

It was about 12:30 a.m. and about 100 feet behind the bunker on the base, shirtless Charlie stepped out of the woods carrying a weapon but not pointing it in our direction.

I swung the M-60 machine gun around and yelled “Halt.” At that point Charlie took a few quick steps and jumped into a depression.

I was just about to pull the trigger when I heard English and a white cloth come up.

I called for him to come forward and Charlie turned out to be an Army soldier who was drunk.

The soldier was only in Vietnam a week and was going to an indoctrination course at a unit near the guard post.

The point I want to drive home is I was in a combat zone, there was a threat with a person having a semi-automatic weapon posing as VC but was not shot because of circumstances. Yet black people who are unarmed are being killed.

Colin Kaepernick is the Rosa Parks of today calling attention to this situation that must be addressed. It’s not fair to the black people in those circumstances or to the overwhelming majority of police officers who handle all kinds of situations with a great deal of professionalism unlike some of these shootings.

Joseph Lamb Sr. Brick

Remove Sex Offenders From Power The faucet on bad sexual behavior has been turned on and the names keep pouring out.

Congressmen, actors, newsmen and business tycoons, have all been named by women who suffered under the sexual fantasies of men in power. Many

20 or 25 years ago, yet these women who are now declaring the abuse they suffered have been under this cloud of exploitation for all these years. Finally, the yoke of fear and retaliation has been removed, and they are able to speak out and name their molesters.

Promises of stardom, becoming a political insider, or possibly even breaking the “glass ceiling” were for these predators the “Coin of the Realm.” The sexual fantasies they wanted satisfied were coerced with promises that were never meant to be kept.

At present, as these deviants are being pointed out for their untoward behavior, the common thread of excuses offered is “I had no idea any wrong doing was being committed, it was a natural evolvement of mutual feelings.”

It would strain the imagination for us to think to that some of these characters are the epitome of handsome virility that would throw women into spasms of ecstasy. It was the promise of “I’ll take care of you.” That was the impetus for going along. It was only after the fact that they believed in the old adage: “Power corrupts, absolute power absolutely corrupts.” These women who willingly accepted the words of predators found, to their dismay, that they were anything but straightforward, but rather were liars and cheaters.

As of now, the predators are in retreat, hiding under the cloak of attorneys and public relations firms and pronouncing in loud voices their “mea culpas.” Let us not forget how these lecherous jackals used women’s hopes and dreams as a wedge to use their bodies in ways to satisfy their lustful, ugly fantasies. We, as a society, should ostracize these vermin from all positions of power; in business, politics, the arts and anywhere else they may emerge. They should be treated as “persona non grata.” In any of their future plans, women should be kept far from their sphere of influence.

Charles L. Frattini, Sr. Manchester Councilman

A State Decision

Representative Tom MacArthur is a co-sponsor of HR38 which is an effort by the Federal Government to make concealed carry of guns legal in all fifty states. I write in opposition to this bill because as a citizen of New Jersey I feel that this should be a states right issue to decide.

We are a small, demographically overpopulated corridor state. If a person wishes to carry a gun into New Jersey they can apply and be granted a document giving them this right by the State of New Jersey. If people who own guns are unaware that our state requires this document it is incumbent upon them to make themselves aware of the laws pertaining to the state.

If it is inconvenient for a gun owner to avail themselves of this document I am sorry, but many laws are inconvenient but are recognized as a a health and safety measure for residents. The second amendment guarantees the ability to own guns, and at the same time specifies that all other rights are that are not articulated must be left to the states.

What other states’ rules are do not and should not usurp our right to make conditions and terms that protect our citizens.

Doris R. Beckmann Ocean Gate

Preserve Loan Forgiveness Program The PROSPER Act that is currently in committee in the House of Representatives eliminates the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program that encourages talented people to become educators, firefighters, nurses, public defenders, and pursue other forms of public service where pay tends to be lower than the private sector.

I am someone who is working in a public school with the understanding that student loan forgiveness will benefit me as I work to benefit the public.

How is it that the Republicans can find ways to cut the taxes of millionaires, but are willing to hurt people like myself who are trying to benefit society?

Ladies and gentlemen, this is not Making America Great.

Joe Dobis Bayville

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 9

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

MacArthur’s Support Of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act WASHINGTON – Congressman Tom MacArthur (R-3rd) released the following statement after The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed the House: This is good news for the overburdened taxpayers in South Jersey. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provides real relief for families and businesses - by simplifying the tax code, lowering rates, doubling the standard deduction, providing tax credits for childcare and care of adult dependents;

all while preserving the deductibility of property and state income taxes.

I came to Washington to fight for my constituents and solve the tough problems that impact their lives.

During this process, I urged the White House and House leadership to preserve the deductibility of property and state income taxes, restore the medical expense deduction for seniors and those with high medical costs and protect the educator expense deduction

for our dedicated teachers.

I didn’t back down from this fight and I’m grateful my colleagues listened and preserved these critical provisions.

In the end, this legislation will provide a vast majority of my constituents with a much needed tax cut and allow them to keep more of their hard-earned money.

MacArthur’s office provided a list of ways that residents in the 3rd District would benefit: • More than half of NJ-3

constituents take the standard deduction, which doubles in this legislation.

• All NJ-3 taxpayers will benefit from Rep. MacArthur’s fight to include a deduction on their property and state income taxes in line with New Jersey state law.

• Over 48,000 NJ-3 families currently claim the child tax credit. Under this legislation, the child tax credit will double to $2,000 per child. Plus, many more middle class families will be

able to take full advantage of this credit, instead of it phasing out at a lower income as it does today.

• NJ-3 families caring for an elderly parent or a child enrolled in college, would be provided with an extra $500 with the creation of the non-child dependent tax credit.

• Provides relief for NJ-3 seniors and residents with high medical bills by expanding the medical expense deduction for medical expenses exceeding 7.5 per-

Bill Would Allow Sandy Tax Exemptions

NEW JERSEY – A Superstorm Sandy-related bill to permit a short-term tax exemption for improvements to certain homes damaged by natural disasters received the unanimous approval of the New Jersey Senate at a recent voting session.

The sponsors, Senator James Holzapfel and Assemblymen Dave Wolfe and

TOMS R IVER – The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders is continuing its pledge to its homebound and vulnerable seniors to provide a nutritious meal daily as part of its extensive senior nutrition program.

“In the New Year, Ocean County will provide almost 300,000 meals to seniors,” said Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as chairman of Senior Services. “Close to 1,100 meals are currently prepared daily and distributed to homebound seniors as well as the eight congregate meal sites located throughout our county.

“We operate one of the largest senior nutrition programs in the state and with the support of the Board of Freeholders we have awarded seven contracts to continue this program into 2018,” Vicari said. “There is no wait list in Ocean County for this program. No senior in Ocean County goes hungry.”

Greg McGuckin (R-10 th), introduced the bill to ensure that property taxpayers aren’t penalized for increased value that may arise from raising their homes.

“Residents had no choice but to rebuild following Superstorm Sandy,” said Holzapfel. “They shouldn’t be penalized with higher property taxes for necessary improvements that will of-

fer protection from future storms.”

The bill, S-3016, would amend the “Five-year Exemption and Abatement Law” to permit a municipality to adopt an ordinance providing a property tax exemption or abatement for a period of five years to homes in an area that has been damaged by a natural disaster.

Under the legislation, any

additional value that’s attributable to the creation of new space under a house due to the home being lifted shall not be taxable for a period of five years.

“In some cases, enhancements such as home elevation are required by insurance companies to prevent damage from a future natural disaster,” added Assemblyman Wolfe. “We’re working

to ensure that assessments stay the same following such necessary improvements, unless a home is rebuilt larger.”

Starting with the 2015/16 tax year, owners that rebuild or repair Hurricane Sandy damage may qualify for an adjustment to their property values. The legislation caps how much a property’s assessed value can be increased due to improvements made to fix

County Set To Provide Meals And More To Seniors The Board of Freeholders awarded seven contracts to Community Services Inc., the major meal provider in Ocean County.

The cost of the 2018 congregate meal contract is $782,173, and for home delivered/ weekend/ holiday meals it is $1,800,132. Over 295,000 total meals are projected for delivery in 2018.

As of the end of November, there was a total of 258,246 meals prepared in 2017.

Home delivered meals accounted for 227,551 meals delivered to the homebound and 30,695 to congregate sites.

While the meals are currently prepared at the Community Services Inc. kitchen in Lakewood, that will change in the New Year once extensive renovations to the Ocean County Southern Service Center, Route 9, in Manahawkin, are completed.

The project is scheduled to

go out to bid on Jan. 3 and the County anticipates receiving bids at the end of January.

Work is expected to begin in the spring.

The work will include reconfiguring the inside of the building to provide 2,000 square feet of additional service area for the county’s senior nutrition program allowing for expanded meal preparation.

Seniors in the county’s congregate nutrition program from Ocean Township south to Little Egg Harbor use the nutrition site at the Southern Service Center.

The upgraded facility will include a renovated senior nutrition site that will hold over 200 people. The project includes better storage facilities, expanded administrative space for client services, and more refrigeration.

The project also includes lowering the ceiling of the facility and the installation of

sprinklers – a major safety upgrade. The lowered ceiling will make acoustics better for older adults and at the same time creates storage space to accommodate shelf stable meals and paper goods.

“The senior nutrition program serves as a lifeline for many of our elderly residents living alone. It helps them maintain their independence and the volunteers and drivers help provide a daily wellness check for many seniors that can no longer get around on their own,” Vicari said. “Nutrition support is a key ingredient to good health for older adults.”

He noted that socialization, recreation, educational programs and health screenings will be offered at the nutrition site.

The shelf meals are distributed in weather emergencies or extended holidays.

“We distributed over 10,000 of them last year alone,” Vicari said. “We make every effort to

assure our seniors do not miss a meal – no matter the weather.”

Jackie Rohan, Director of Senior Services, said the county’s plans will allow for the expansion of the county’s meal production capability in the south along with consolidating staff and resources to the one location.

“At the same time, this project will create a more efficient, centralized operation, with better opportunities for cost control and decreased waste, and create one production location to enhance communication for both staff and consumers,” she said.

Community Services Inc., during renovations, will continue to produce the meals for seniors at the Ocean County Northern Resource Center, Lakewood.

And a smaller congregate site will continue to be operated at the Southern Service Center during the work.

cent, which Congressman MacArthur successfully advocated for.

• Protects the educator expense deduction for NJ-3 teachers, that Congressman MacArthur urged House Leadership to include.

• Gives small businesses the lowest tax rate since World War II, which will help Main Street businesses from Toms River to Willingboro.

• Lower tax rates, which will enable his constituents to keep more of their hardearned money.

a home that was damaged in the storm.

“Even with numerous grant programs available, residents have had to reach into their own pockets, spending tens of thousands of dollars to get back into their homes,” added McGuckin.

“Increased property taxes are not the type of ‘Welcome Home’ we want to extend to our constituents.”

“We do not expect any interruption in this service,” Vicari said.

In addition to the nutrition contracts, Community Services Inc. was awarded contracts to provide over 30,800 client contacts for support services such as community outreach, benefits counseling, transportation, and general information and assistance at a cost of $478,749.

They will also conduct Chronic Disease Self-Management workshops for 200 individuals specifically targeting those with diabetes at a cost of $40,589 in 2018.

“Ocean County is home to almost 170,000 adults 60 and over,” Vicari said.

“And, more than 10,000 baby boomers daily are turning 65. It’s important to meet the needs of the frail and the homebound.

This is a priority for the freeholders.”

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 10, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

2017: Continued From Page 6 School Aid Lost, Then Restored The Toms River Regional School District was slated to lose $3.3 million in state aid. State lawmakers had attributed the loss to the fact that Toms River had shrinking enrollment, so the reduction in state aid was long overdue. Toms River

had 17,169 students in the 2008-2009 school year. They were down to 15,620 in 2016-2017.

School officials held a press conference, contacted lawmakers, and drummed up support from parents. Ultimately, their efforts were rewarded with the state aid being returned to the previous year’s total.

The officials noted that the previous year’s total was still a reduction from

Spring Completion

WINTER SAVINGS

Winter Delivery

past years, however.

Walmart Gave Up On New Store Walmart officials said in an emailed statement that “after consideration of several business factors, we have made the difficult decision not to move forward with building another Walmart store in Toms River.”

The property borders Toms River and Manchester, so both towns had to sign

off on it. The plan was originally heard in 2004.

Jaylin Holdings, the name of the developing company formed by Jay and Linda Grunin, originally proposed a main store of 203,091 square feet, with a 19,884 squarefoot garden center and 1,049 parking spaces.

In 2010, the plan was scaled down to 189,797 square feet of retail space, a 5,703 square-foot garden center and 833 parking spaces.

Seen as a victory by environmentalists, due to the impact it would have on nearby habitats, officials from both towns would have welcomed the added tax ratable.

Crackdown On Transients Township officials responded to issues with renters and people who live at hotels, because of the crime and disruption of the neighborhood that comes with transients.

The Township’s Quality of Life Task Force, made up of primarily police, fi re, and code or zoning enforcement personnel, entered two local hotels with search warrants and made a series of arrests.

A new ordinance will require people staying in hotels and motels to provide identification, driver’s license number, and vehicle description, and for hotel operators to record this information. The ordinance also prevented anyone from staying in a room for less than 12 hours or for more than 90 days.

Another ordinance addressed people who rent their home out to vacationers for a day or more. Residents in quiet neighborhoods didn’t want partying tourists spending a weekend next door and leaving it a mess.

According to this ordinance, the homeowners would have to register as a landlord and display a permit. People can only stay for a minimum of two days during the period of April 1 through Nov. 30 on the barrier island. Outside of the barrier island, it would be a seven-day minimum.

This ordinance took a long time to come, because some homeowners felt they had a right to make a little side money off the occasional rental of their home, and some people rented to vacationers who were good neighbors.

Fire Election Failed A new station that would be home to Toms River Fire Companies 1 and 2 failed at the ballot. The ballot question asked voters to approve a $14 million bond, because by law they had to ask for the full amount, even though they expected grants to bring this down.

Beach Replenished The Army Corps of Engineers began a $128 million dune replenishment project after the township got all the easements signed. The area had been hit hard by Superstorm Sandy, and never fully recovered. The township spent a lot of money replacing sand on the beach after storms.

Ortley Beach was scheduled to receive approximately 267,000 cubic yards of sand, creating an approximately 225-footwide beach. The crew was to start in spring, to set up the beach for the summer season, and then return at the close of the season through 2018 to fi nish the work and do Normandy Beach.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Naming: Continued From Page 1 years, according to a press release.

With this partnership, RWJBarnabas would receive naming rights of the Pine Belt Arena on the campus of Toms River High School North. This had previously been known as the Ritacco Center, named after the former superintendent. It had also been the Poland Springs Arena, when the district began selling naming rights.

For now, the building will be known as the RWJBarnabas Health Arena, Superintendent David Healy said. This will serve as the name until an official name is announced.

Staff from RWJBarnabas would consult on any planned health curriculum updates, and would be involved in the Academy School of Biomedicine. Staff will assist teachers in preparing students for future jobs in the field of healthcare. There would also be an involvement in wellness programs like blood drives, screenings, nutrition and athletics.

The biomedicine academy is starting for freshman this year, Healy said. Like the other academies, they will be expanded for sophomores next year. However, there is a groundwork for the academies starting in kindergarten.

“When they arrive in the high school, they will be exposed to so many opportunities, they can be reasonably sure of what career or college path they want to pursue,” he said.

“RWJBarnabas Health is a trusted name with a significant local presence, and this agreement will truly benefit our students and community,” Healy said in a press release. “The revenue for naming rights to the arena - though certainly important and

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 11 a source of fi nancial stability for our district - is but a small part of what this means.

This is more of a partnership than a sponsorship, and what we’re most excited about is to work side-by-side with RWJBarnabas Health in a way that directly and positively impacts our students. Everything from student internships to wellness education to athletic protocol is being discussed, and we couldn’t be more thrilled.”

RWJBarnabas Health runs several hospitals in New Jersey, including Community Medical Center in Toms River, Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, and Children’s Specialized Hospital.

“At RWJBarnabas Health, it is our mission to create healthier communities throughout New Jersey. This partnership provides us with the unique opportunity to collaborate with the Toms River School District in a meaningful way to develop education and wellness opportunities that will directly affect the community,” said Amy Mansue, President of the Southern Region of RWJBarnabas Health, in a press release. “This will allow both of our organizations to leverage resources to serve the students and their families. We look forward to investing in health education and overall community wellness.”

The deal was made possible by Fox Run Group, a NJ-based company specializing in sponsorship management. The district had contracted with the company to help secure corporate sponsorships.

Fox Run did the negotiation for this partnership, Healy said. They had been in negotiation with several entities – including Hackensack Meridian Health. It had been erroneously reported in other media that the negotiation with Hackensack was a done deal.

READY. SET. GOddard!

NOW ENROLLING: Toddlers, Pre-K & Full-Day Kindergarten 255 Rte 70 Toms River, NJ 08755

732-363-5530

tomsriver2nj@goddardschools.com www.goddardschool.com/toms-river-IInj

MICHELE’S

GOLD BUYERS, LLC NO COUPONS, NO GIMMICKS

GUARANTEED BEST PRICE PAID PERIOD!

WE BUY GOLD

PLATINUM • SILVER • DIAMONDS • STERLING FLATWARE FOR PAID

R YOU

ON-SITE SECURITY BONDED INSURED LICENSED #11-09

S

ND O M A I

CASH

D

S

D

ND O M A I

DS

ON DIAM

Check Out Our Website at

www.michelesgoldbuyers.com After Hour Appointments Available Cell: 732.503.0079

- Photo courtesy Toms River Schools (left to right) Ben Giovine, Toms River Regional School Board President; William Doering, Toms River Regional Schools Business Administrator; David Healy, Toms River Regional School District Superintendent; Amy Mansue, President of the Southern Region for RWJBarnabas Health; Michael Mimoso, MHSA, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer for Community Medical Center, and Teri Kubiel, DNP, MSN, NE-BC, Vice President, Patient Experience and Community Affairs at Community Medical Center hold a banner unveiling the new partnership between the two inclusive of naming rights to the Arena and educational health initiatives.

Michele DeGeorge Serving Ocean County

732-262-GOLD (4653)

DeGeorge Professional Building 249 Brick Blvd. • Brick, NJ 08723

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 12, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

Read The TOMS RIVER TIMES on your... DESKTOP • SMARTPHONE • TABLET

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

Powered by issuu.com!

Career And Kids Open Houses Spotlight Winter And Spring Programs

JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM

TOMS RIVER –The Department of Continuing & Professional Education at Ocean County College is hosting three different Open Houses during January for individuals looking to branch out into a new career field or upgrade skills; for parents interested in learning more about kids and teens programs; and for those seeking courses for fun and enrichment.

The Open Houses will be held on OCC’s Main Campus, College Drive. Admission is free and open to the public.

With Coupon. Expires 1/30/18.

• Medical Coding as a Career Seminar Open House: Sat, January 6, 9-11a.m., Room A224, Grunin Center, Building 11.

Visitors should use Parking Lot 2. Be a part of the growing health care industry.

This overview will cover training, certifications, online and traditional courses, career paths, and a look at ICD-10-CM and CPT coding.

• Spring Open House: Wed, January 17 (Snow Date Jan. 18), 3-6 p.m., Ground Floor Lobby, Room 002, College Library,

With Coupon. Expires 1/30/18.

Little Egg Harbor Location

NOW OPEN!

Building 3. Visitors should use Parking Lot 1. Learn about professional development classes; career certificates in health care, business, computers, construction, fire protection, and specialized careers; along with personal interest classes for fun and enrichment, and kids and teens programs.

• Medical Billing, Coding, and Health Information Management (HIM) as a Career Open House: Sat, January 20 (Snow date: Jan. 27), 9-12 p.m., Room A224, Grunin Center, Building 11. Visitors should use Parking Lot 2. Be a part of the growing health care industry as a medical biller, coder, or HIM specialist. Find a rewarding job either in a home business or health care facility. Learn how to complete your certificate either online or in a traditional classroom.

For more information, call the Ocean County College Department of Continuing & Professional Education at 732-255-0409 or email cpeinfo@ocean.edu.

Independently Owned & Operated

Treating All Ages for Minor Illness & Injury

Board Certified Emergency Medicine Walk-Ins Welcome Most Insurances Accepted

609-978-0242

NEW

S! HOUR

4 Toms River - 970 Hooper Ave.

M-F: 8am-8pm • Weekends: 8am-5pm

Manahawkin - 712 E. Bay Ave. (Near DMV) M-F: 8am-8pm • Weekends: 8am-5pm

Lanoka Harbor - 539 N. Main St. M-F: 8am-8pm • Weekends: 8am-5pm

Little Egg Harbor - 1395 Rt. 539 M-F: 8am-8pm • Weekends: 8am-5pm

www.urgentcarenownj.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 13

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

February Shows Melt The Ice At Grunin Center TOMS RIVER – This February, the Grunin Center for the Arts is featuring an exciting array of entertainment from jazz to R&B to children’s shows and more!

All performances take place on the Main Stage at Grunin Center, Ocean County College. Visitors are advised to use Parking Lot #2.

To purchase tickets, go online at grunincenter.org, call 732-255-0500, or visit the Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The events are as follows: • (Rock/Pop) Songbook: Steven Page &

The Art of Time Ensemble – Fri, February 2 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35-$45.

• (Children) Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny – Sat, February 3 at 11a.m. Tickets are $15 adult and $10 children.

• (Folk/Country/Bluegrass) Sierra Hull – Sat, February 3 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25.

• (Jazz) The Birdland All-Stars featuring Tommy Igoe – Wed, February 14 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $43-$45.

• (R&B) Michael Lynche: R&B Legends – Sat, February 17 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25.

Knights Of Columbus Charity Trips In 2018

MANAHAWKIN – The Knights of Columbus of Manahawkin is hosting trips in the coming months of 2018, including: Sands Casino, Bethlehem, PA – Feb. 26: Includes transportation, driver gratuity, $30 casino credit and $5 food coupon.

Cost is $39 per person.

Philadelphia Flower Show – Mar. 6:

Includes transportation, admission, and driver gratuity. Cost is $65 per person.

Peddler’s Village “Strawberry Festival”, Lahaska, PA – May 19: Includes transportation and driver gratuity. Cost is $32 per person.

For more information contact Charles Serwin at 609-978-0970.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

CHIMNEYS • GUTTERS • ROOFING • MASONRY

Busy Bee

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

Chimney & Gutter Cleaning • New Roofs Steps & Sidewalks

$39 CHIMNEY CLEANING – $85 GUTTER CLEANING

FirstEnergy Foundation Gifts $1,000 Each To Local Non-Profits

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

Owned & Operated by Mike Umstead

732-240-0488

HIC #13VH06729000

SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION OCEAN COUNTY DOCKET NO. F-029959-16 L.S. STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO Anthony Romano, his unknown heirs, devisees, personal representatives, administrators, executors and his, if any, successors in right, title, and interest. YOU ARE HEREBY summoned and required to serve upon GROSS MCGINLEY, LLP, Plaintiff’s attorneys, whose address is 33 S. 7th Street, Allentown, PA 18105, telephone (610) 820-5450, an Answer to the Foreclosure Complaint (and any amendments thereto) filed in a civil action, in which Santander Bank, N.A. is a Plaintiff and Anthony Romano, his unknown heirs, devisees, personal representatives, administrators, executors and his, if any, successors in right, title, and interest, et al. is a defendant, pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey within 35 days after December 30, 2017, the date of publication, exclusive of such date or if published after December 30, 2017, 35 days after the actual date of publication. If you fail to do so, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. You shall file your Answer and proof of service in duplicate with the Clerk of the Superior Court, Hughes Justice Complex, PO Box 971, Trenton, New Jersey 08625, together with your check in the amount of $175.00 representing the filing fee, in accordance with the Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure. You are further advised that if you cannot afford an attorney, or are unable to obtain an attorney, you may communicate with the or Lawyer Referral Service of the county of venue and that if you cannot afford an attorney, you may communicate with the Legal Services Office of the County of Venue by calling: OCEAN COUNTY LAWYER REFERRAL (732-240-3666) OCEAN COUNTY LEGAL SERVICES (732-341-2727) THE ACTION has been instituted for the purpose of foreclosing the following Mortgage: Dated: March 27, 2003 in the amount of: $57,000.00 Made by: Anthony Romano to: Sovereign Bank n/k/a Santander Bank, N.A. Recorded: April 28, 2003 at Book 11371 and Page 0076 Covers real estate located at: 137 San Carlos Street, Toms River, Ocean County, New Jersey 08831 and also known as Lot 41 in Block 4.279 as shown on the Tax Map of Berkeley Township, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey. You, Anthony Romano, his unknown heirs, devisees, personal representatives, administrators, executors and his, if any, successors in right, title, and interest, have been joined as a Defendant in our foreclosure complaint and your lien or encumbrance on the mortgaged premises is subject to Plaintiff’s mortgage. The nature of which and the reason that you and each of you are joined as a defendant is set forth with particularity in the Complaint, a copy of which will be furnished to you on request, addressed to the attorneys of the plaintiff at the above-mentioned address. Dated: December 30, 2017 Michelle M. Smith, CLERK, SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY

By Kimberly Bosco

NEW JERSEY – The FirstEnergy Foundation is spreading more than just holiday cheer this year after it recently presented 12 local New Jersey non-profit organizations with a gift of $1,000 each for their hard work making lives better in our local communities.

Each of these 12 non-profits that have been rewarded is located within the Jersey Central Power and Light service areas in New Jersey. The gifts are being donated as a part of the foundation’s “Gifts of the Season” campaign. On a larger scale, FirstEnergy has awarded 132 non-profits with the $1,000 gift throughout the company’s six-state service area.

“We’re pleased to provide this surprise support to so many agencies throughout New Jersey, particularly during the holidays, when the services they provide to the least fortunate are often most vital,” said Dee Lowery, president of the FirstEnergy Foundation. “The winners were chosen secretly

by FirstEnergy employees, who identified organizations in their areas that do extraordinary work to make our communities better. Our goal was to focus on programs that enhance children’s services, or provide additional support for organizations facing

a critical need during the holiday season.”

The recipients of FirstEnergy’s generous holiday gift are as follows: • Holiday Express, Tinton Falls • Reach Educational Services, Flemington • The Family Guidance Center, Washington • Disabled American Veterans, Fort Monmouth Memorial #29, Tinton Falls • El Primer Paso, Dover • Disabled American Veterans, Emile Post #78, Netcong • Camp Nejeda Foundation, Newton • Michael Gerard Puharic Memorial Fund, Matawan • CASA of Ocean County, Toms River • Our Youth Their Future, Morristown • Disabled American Veterans #74, Freehold NJ Sharing Network, Providence These agencies work to better the lives of families, children and veterans, among many others in need. They help to empower them and provide much needed assistance, education, and resources. FirstEnergy recognizes the work they do for the communities that they both serve with this gift.

For more information about FirstEnergy visit firstenergycorp.com.

Northeast Regional Collegiate Challenge Change Of Date TOMS RIVER – There has been a change in the date of this year’s Northeast Regional Collegiate Challenge. It will now be held on Jan. 27 at 9 a.m. at Playdrome Lanes.

The date change is meant to accommodate those teams who had scheduling conflicts with the original date. The tournament is open to all collegiate bowling men’s and women’s teams and is sanctioned by the USBC-Collegiate Division.

Any interested teams are encouraged to send a check for $150 and line-ups to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting, ATTN: William Bodine Tournament Director. Teams can register from now until Jan. 20.

For more information call William Bodine at 732-814-6683, St. Stephen’s Parish at 732-350-2121, or Playdrome Lanes at 732-349-5345.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!

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

Stay Safe This Holiday Season: Don’t Drink And Drive

By Kimberly Bosco

TOMS RIVER – Tis the season for celebration!

With all of the New Year’s Eve celebrations coming up fast, it is always important to remember to celebrate responsibly! The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) reminds everyone not to drink and drive, especially during this holiday season.

It is never safe to drink and drive, but it is important to emphasize this during the time of year characterized by holiday festivities and gatherings. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, two to three times more people die in alcohol-related crashes during Christmas and New Year’s than any other time of the year.

“The statistics really are sobering. Almost 30 people in the United States die every day in motor vehicle accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver,” said Ocean County Freeholder Deputy

Director Gerry P. Little.

Keep these statistics in mind as you enjoy yourself at holiday parties this season. If you drink, don’t get behind the wheel.

Daniel E. Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator, provides these tips for holiday party-goers to stay safe: Plan ahead by appointing a designated driver or putting a local taxi service’s number in your phone if needed.

Stop anyone who has been drinking from driving.

Do not get in the car with someone who has been drinking.

Call 911 if you see a drunk driver.

Stay the night or offer up a place to sleep for your party guests who have been drinking.

Regenye also advises that everyone “put the phone away before you get behind the wheel and stay safe and sound while driving this holiday season.”

For more information visit the Ocean County Health Department website at ochd.org.

The Jersey Shore Comic Book Show Returns

TOMS RIVER – The Jersey Shore Comic Book Show returns to Toms River on Sunday, January 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Toms River Elks, 600 Washington Street. The event will feature vendors, artists, writers, publishers and costume groups.

This show benefits the Toms River Elks and other charitable organizations. Looking for crafters with items related to super heroes, science fiction, anime, steampunk.

For more information, see jerseyshorecomicbookshow.com.

CALL 732.657.7344 TO FIND OUT HOW!!

HONESTY, INTEGRITY, SINCERITY, THOUGHTFULNESS, KINDNESS, INTELLIGENCE & CONSIDERATION...

Qualities we all aspire to possess.

Rose Garden Nursing & Rehabilitation holds those values in high esteem. God bless Toms River. nursing and

rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. Toms River, NJ 08753 732-505-4477 www.rosegardennj.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 16, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

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

Robert J. Novins Planetarium Winter Events

Independent & Assisted Living Personalized Assistance for the Independent Resident

A

ble Apartmen a d r ts ffo Starting At

1995

$

NO ENTRANCE FEE! Monthly Rate Includes:

• 3 Homestyle Meals Daily • Social and Recreational Activities • Weekly Housekeeping • Utilities Included • Emergency Call System • Spacious Studios, One & Two Bedroom Apartments • Access to Common and Social areas

Additional Services Available include: • Assisted Living Services • Personal Care Assistance • Wellness and Health Monitoring • Laundry • Medication Management • Scheduled Transportation

MEMORY SUPPORT NOW OPEN!

732-905-9222

2145 Whitesville Road • Toms River, New Jersey 08755

www.springoaktomsriver.com

TOMS RIVER – Visit the Robert J. Novins Planetarium at Ocean County College this holiday season for one of their unique holiday shows or displays!

The schedule is as follows: • Dec. 30 at 2 p.m. – Laser Holidays: This laser concert features classic holiday favorites like “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” modern hits such as “Jingle Bell Rock” and unique renditions of timeless songs.

• Dec. 30 at 11:30 a.m. – Let It Snow: This delightful animated show features a variety of festive classics such as “Let It Snow”; “Run Rudolph Run”; “Frosty the Snowman”; “Holly Jolly Christmas”; “Jingle Bell Rock”; and a stunning, multi-media finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

• Dec. 30 at 7 p.m. - Laser Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon: This event offers

a mixture of psychedelic, rock and jazz sounds. Its sonic backdrops and atmospheric soundscapes combined with a unique assortment of sound effects yield an emotional resonance.

• Dec. 30 at 8:15 p.m. - Laser Pink Floyd: The Wall: Pink Floyd is always a crowd favorite and The Wall is considered to be one of the best classic rock albums of all time.

• Dec. 31 at 10:30 a.m. - “Noon” Year’s Eve Party, Crafts & Show!: Ring in the New Year at the Stroke of Noon! Come for a celebration of the New Year that won’t ruin bedtimes. This New Year’s Eve Show will be a fun-filled blast into space as you talk about the planets and stars, see lasers, dance, and ring in 2018 at noon.

For more information call 732-255-0342 or visit ocean.edu.

Toms River Library To Host Forum On Safe Investing And Fraud Prevention

TOMS RIVER – Learn how to be a safe investor and protect yourself against fraud during the program “Investment Fraud – Protect Yourself” at 1 p.m. on Jan. 5 at the Toms River Library, 101 Washington St. A representative from the New Jersey Bureau of Securities will be presenting the program. The New Jersey Bureau of Securities is charged with protecting investors from investment fraud, and regulating the securities

industry in New Jersey.

This agency also registers securities offered or sold in New Jersey and oversees the firms and individuals selling securities or providing investment advice to state residents. The Bureau also assists residents become informed investors and promotes financial literacy.

The program is free but registration is required. Register online at theoceancountylibrary.org or call 732-349-6200.

SUEZ Urges Customers To Be Aware Of Cold Weather And Cracked Pipes

TOMS RIVER – SUEZ is urging customers to be aware that the seasonal freezing and possible extreme temperature fluctuations can cause water lines in homes, businesses and underground infrastructures to become damaged, resulting in cracked pipes.

“Our crews frequently respond to fractured pipes during extreme weather events,” said Jim Mastrokalos, Director of Operations. ‘’It’s very important that all of our residents recognize that even the slightest changes in temperatures or the bitter cold can cause ruptures.”

SUEZ emergency crews are always ready and available in the event of emergencies throughout the service area. However, customers are responsible for plumbing on their properties. Customers can work to prevent such fractures in their homes and businesses by taking precautionary measures.

SUEZ suggests running cold water from the tap periodically, as a bit of water flowing through from time to time will help safeguard lines. Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to gradually allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing is also helpful.

Mastrokalos also said that because water expands as it freezes, it potentially prevents water from flowing properly, resulting in cracks to water lines.

If residents notice water leaks on their premises or in streets they should immediately contact the company’s customer service toll-free number at 1-877-565-1456.

Household plumbing, water meters and pipes located on outside walls, basements or crawl spaces can also be affected, leading to costly repairs. To prevent pipes subject to the cold from cracking or breaking, wrap them in commercial insulation or heat tape available at local hardware stores.

If a vacation is being planned during the winter months, it is important to set the thermostat to at least a minimal heat setting in homes and businesses to help protect pipes during temperature changeability.

If residents are uncertain about their home pipelines or plumbing system’s endurance during the cold months or in the course of weather fluctuations, contacting a certified plumbing contractor can help safeguard homes and prevent unwelcome bursting pipes and water damage.

Check out Micromedia Publications’ website, jerseyshoreonline.com.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 17

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

E-Waste Now Accepted At Toms River Recycling Center

TOMS RIVER – Effective immediately, the Toms River Department of Public Works is now able to recycle electronic waste. This means that Township residents can drop off electronic waste at our facility, year-round, free of charge.

“Due to a significant increase in e-waste disposal fees, the Township stopped accepting recycled electronics on October 1, 2016. Residents had been required to bring them to the Ocean County recycling facility in Lakewood.

I am happy to report that we partnered with Reverse Logistics LLC, and are now able to provide this service to all Toms River Township residents,” said Lou Amoruso, Director of Public Works.

Electronic items (see below) may be dropped

off at the Toms River Recycling Convenience Center, located at 1672 Church Road, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 732-255-1000, ext. 8108.

“Recycling electronics not only conserves natural resources, but protects the environment from harmful toxins and saves landfill space.

We are extremely pleased to offer this added service to our residents at no cost,” said Council President Al Manforti.

E-Waste List: • TVs • Computer Monitors (all sizes and types) • Computer Towers • Laptops • Tablets

NJHMFA Board Approves Commitments For Supportive Housing Projects Financed In Part

By Sandy Recovery Funds TOMS RIVER – In effort to help increase the number of supportive housing opportunities in the state, the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency’s (NJHMFA) Board of Directors approved several financing commitments for new projects at its September 28 meeting, including two that will be financed in part by Superstorm Sandy recovery funds.

“Because of Sandy’s impact on housing that accommodates special needs populations, the Christie Administration has dedicated disaster recovery funds to the construction of quality, permanent supportive housing throughout the state to expand housing options for these groups,” said New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Charles A. Richman, who also serves as chairman of the NJHMFA board.

“Projects funded by the Sandy Special Needs

Housing Fund not only provide affordable housing opportunities, but also benefit the community by creating jobs, generating local and state taxes, and spurring local economic growth.”

The supportive housing projects include Garfield Supportive Housing in Toms River, which received $440,200 from the Sandy Special Needs Housing Fund for the construction of an 1,800-square-foot modular ranch-style home, which will have four bedrooms, two and 1/2 bathrooms, kitchen, living room, family room, dining room, office and laundry. The project, developed by Regan Development LLC, will provide permanent supportive housing for four individuals with disabilities.

For more information on the Sandy Special Needs Housing Fund, Conduit Bond Program, and other NJHMFA programs, visit njhousing.gov.

Christ Episcopal Church Food Pantry

TOMS RIVER – Christ Episcopal Church has a food pantry that is open every Tuesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

OCEAN COUNTY NJ ONLINE

Your Gateway Resource to Ocean County NJ Information

♦ Ocean County Events ♦ Community Information ♦ Business Listings

www.OceanCountyNJOnline.com

Food pantry patrons must bring a form of ID when using the pantry.

The church is located at 415 Washington St.

PROPAN E WE GIVE FULL 20 LB TANKS

Refilled for ONLY

$

14

95

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

642 Fischer Blvd. • Toms River, NJ

732.228.7958

Law Offices of

AUGUST R.

SOLTIS

Member N.J., N.Y., GA & U.S. Supreme Court Bars 30+ Years of Experience - Certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Civil Trial Attorney

SPECIALIZING IN PERSONAL INJURY & WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CASES: • Auto, Truck & Motorcycle Accidents • Slip & Falls • Wrongful Death Cases • Medical Malpractice Claims • Nursing Home Injuries & Malpractice • Dog Bite Cases • Construction Accidents • Burn Cases • Spinal Injury Cases • Defective Product Cases • Workers Compensation & Work Related Injuries

FREE CONSULTATIONS – NO COSTS OR FEES IF NO RECOVERY Office, Home or Hospital Appointments CALL: 888-NJBILAW (888-652-4529) or 973-616-8820 Offices: Main Street, Toms River; Freehold, Newark; New York City

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 18, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017 Main Location: 1 Pelican Drive, Suite 8 Bayville, NJ 08721 Other Locations: 890 West Bay Ave. Barnegat, NJ 08005 552 Common Ways, Building E, Toms River NJ 08755 74 Brick Blvd., Office # 124, Brick, NJ 08723 Jersey Shore Foot and Leg Center provides advanced orthopedic reconstructive foot and ankle surgery along with testing and treatment of venous and arterial diseases.

BOARD CERTIFIED SURGEONS Michael Kachmar, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S. Vincent Delle Grotti, D.P.M., C.W.S. Thomas Kedersha, M.D., F.A.C.S.

SERVICES PROVIDED

• Reconstructive Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgery • Advanced Vein & Arterial Care • Diabetic & Peripheral Neuropathy Treatments • Tumors-Lower Leg, Foot & Ankle • Wound & Ulcer care • On-site Vascular Lab • On-site X-rays

• Consultations & Treatments at Local Wound Care Centers • Dermatology of Lower Extremities • Skin Cancer Evaluations & Treatments • Surgical Procedures Performed in Office & Hospitals • Screen & Treatments for Deep Vein Thrombosis • Second Opinions - Surgical & Vascular

P: 732. 269.1133 | F: 732.269.7675 | www.JerseyShoreFootandLegCenter.com

Providing Home Care Services in NJ and PA for Over 20 Years.

PreferredCares.com Care for Seniors, Adults & Pediatrics • Skilled Nursing (RNs, LPNs) Adult & Pediatric Ventilator Care • Personal Care Home Health Aides • 24-Hour Live-In Aides Private Pay, Insurance, HMOs & Medicaid RN Supervision on ALL Levels of Care

24 HOURS A DAY • 7 DAYS A WEEK LICENSED, BONDED, INSURED

LISTEN ON WOBM AM 1160 & 1310 TUNE IN TO

PREFERRED COMPANY!

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Happy New Year!

8 Resolutions That Matter

From getting healthier, saving money, and living life to the fullest to embracing technology, exploring new places, and letting loved ones pitch in, we’re taking New Year’s resolutions to the next level with eight ideas to support your hearing health and quality of life.

Here’s to making 2018 the best year yet!

Getting Fit It’s no secret that obesity can raise the risk for stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health problems, but did you know it’s linked to hearing impairment, healthyhearing.com/report/50949-Obesity-and-hearing-loss too? Resolving to get even healthier and more fit in 2018 helps reduce the risk of excess weight, a problem that can tax your hearing and impact overall wellness.

Ditching Tobacco Smoking, the No. 1 preventable cause of death in the U.S. and the culprit behind most lung cancer cases, can also increase the chances of developing a hearing impairment sciencedirect.com/science/article/ pii/S0091743504002816?via%3Dihub.

Resolving to quit smoking and live tobacco-free puts you ahead of the pack for your hearing, your lungs, your heart, and your general good health.

Embracing Technology Today’s tech can turn any alerting sound into a visual or vibratory cue, allowing doorbells, smoke alarms, and more to alert using flashing lights or vibrations. Smartphones can stream audio directly to hearing aids and may also caption videos or flash visual alerts for incoming calls. Another innovation: We even have hearing technology compatible with telehealth care.

Trying Something New Trouble hearing telephone conversations?

You may qualify for a captioning telephone, a landline phone that shows the spoken words of the person you’re talking to. It’s

free if a qualified hearing care professional certifies your hearing loss and need for the phone, and it works with hearing aids. All you need is a standard phone line and an Internet connection.

Exploring Fresh Destinations Make this your year to discover a new favorite place! If you’re traveling well beyond your local area, check with us to find an AGX practice near your destination. If a practice is part of the program, you can see them while traveling at no extra cost. Now, that’s peace of mind.

Letting Friends Pitch In When it comes to getting by with a little help from friends, the Beatles had it right.

Bringing your best friend or another companion to your hearing care appointments means an extra set of ears and eyes, as well as an additional perspective that can make a difference in understanding how listening difficulties affect you and your loved ones and matching the right solutions to your needs.

Maximizing Your Income Don’t let hearing difficulties come between you and your money. Untreated hearing impairment can reduce annual household earnings by as much as $30,000, according to one study, nvrc.org/2011/03/bhi-people-with-untreated-hearing-loss-lose-income-annually/ but using hearing aids can curb the chance of income loss by up to 100 percent — depending on the degree of impairment.

Living Life to the Fullest Hearing technology changes lives. A majority of hearing aid users in one study by the National Council on Aging ncoa.org/ wp-content/uploads/NCOA-Study-1999.pdf credited treatment for better relationships at home, and half or nearly half reported improvement in feelings about themselves and improvement in life overall. Just another reminder of how keeping you’re hearing at its best can help you live your best.

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. Expanded Whiting Hours!

Featuring

Joel Markel and Marianne Levy Monday–Friday from 8-10 a.m.

Be sure to tune in for...

GAME SHOW WEDNESDAY for a chance to win fabulous gift certificates to local restaurants & more!

preferredradio.com

Welcome To OHI OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean Health Initiatives, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) based in Ocean County.

OHI provides high quality, accessible and affordable family health care to the area’s residents regardless of insurance at our five Health Center locations in Lakewood, Little Egg Harbor, Toms River, Manahawkin and Manchester; with two School Based Wellness Programs in the Lakewood High School and Clifton Avenue

Elementary School, Lakewood.

They accept Medicaid, Medicare and most commercial insurances. A sliding fee scale is available to all patients based on an individual’s ability to pay for the primary and preventative health care services rendered.

Their board certified and bi-lingual staff welcomes patients from all walks of life, beginning at birth through their senior years.

Contact them at 732-363-6655.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 19

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

Cheese Genes, Video Addiction And Missing Toenails, Oh My!

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. WHO to Officially Recognize Video Gaming Disorder as a Mental Health Problem Gaming is an official disease, and classified as a mental health disorder. The symptoms include anxiety, withdrawal symptoms and anti-social behavior as well as the obvious, becoming non-productive! This disorder will surely generate a lot of money for companies who can “treat” the condition, which by the way, impacts the same parts of your brain as alcohol, porn, gambling and shopping.

Eating Cheese Every Day May Protect Your Heart I’m not sure why, but this headline cracked me up! If there’s a cheese gene, I have it because I love cheese. If you’re a cheese lover, this will give you a new excuse to make Baked Brie with Blackberry Compote.

Mmm! Researchers suggest that eating about an ounce and a half of cheese every day could help to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke! It isn’t going to “protect your heart” in my opinion, it’s loaded with casein and saturated fats, but I’ll still mentally award an A plus to the researchers for making me drool. FYI, if you have MAO genetic SNPs (or take MAO inhibitor drugs), avoid cheese due to the tyramine content, it can provoke a headache or worse!

Do Hair Dyes Increase the Risk of Prostate Cancer?

In the study I read, the answer isn’t a clear yes or no regarding prostate cancer.

This type of headline is not a new one.

Researchers have been trying to clearly define the risks of certain chemicals in hair

dye, and find out which colors are most toxic. Certain compounds called “aromatic amines” are found in high concentrations in hair dyes and we know they do trigger cancer growth in lab animals, however, it’s not as clear with humans. Though several population based studies do suggest higher rates of leukemia, non-Hodgkins lymphoma or multiple myeloma in women who use hair dyes, the highest risk is actually seen in hairdressers who experience more bladder and blood-related cancers (like those listed above) but remember, they work with these chemicals all day long so exposure is high.

Low Thyroid Levels Affect A Woman’s Fertility Agreed, this very topic was covered in one of my books in 2010, seven years ago!

It just made headlines in 2017. Low thyroid can definitely contribute to infertility, miscarriage and premature births. It’s easy to test for and repair.

Weird Health Benefits of Stress It’s true that a little stress can temporarily improve your mental sharpness, but chronic stress can deplete your adrenals so I’d say it’s best to minimize your stress levels as much as you can. Stressful situations increase bonding with friends, relatives and your spouse. That’s why if you’re stuck in an airport overnight, you might make new friends after sharing the experience. The reason is short term stress boosts oxytocin, a bonding hormone. Further, people are forced to rescue you, if not physically then emotionally. The trouble with this is some people thrive on stress in their life because it victimizes them, provoking others to give them attention and affection. It can even become the glue in an otherwise bad marriage.

(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.

The Latest in Vision Correction Technology B. Athwal, MD • H. Athwal, MD • L. Athwal, MD N. Athwal, OD • D. McDonald, MD

Eye Physicians & Surgeons

COMPLETE EYE CARE SERVICES Routine Eye Exams • Laser Cataract Surgery • Glaucoma Premium Lens Implants • Diabetes • Dry Eye Clinic Corneal Transplants • Optical Boutique • Contact Lenses

Botox • Facial Esthetics • Lid Lifts

LASIK, PRK, Vision Correction Call for a FREE consult to discover your options

We Accept Medicare & Most Health Plans 14 Mule Road • Toms River, NJ

732-286-0900

550 Rt. 530, Ste #19 • Whiting, NJ

732-350-9191

athwaleye.com

New Jersey Hematology Oncology Associates, LLC

WE OFFER THE LATEST CLINICAL TRIALS TO OUR PATIENTS INCLUDING THOSE WITH: • MYELODYSPLASTIC SYNDROME • PROSTATE CANCER • BREAST CANCER • LUNG CANCER • MULTIPLE MYELOMA • LYMPHOMA AND MANY MORE

Your Year-Round Resource for Seaside Heights ♦ Beach Cam ♦ Beach & Surf Conditions ♦ Restaurants ♦ Discount Hotel/Motel Rooms ♦ Attractions

www.SeasideHeightsNJOnline.com

BRICK • 1608 RT. 88, STE. 250 732-840-8880 TOMS RIVER • 508 LAKEHURST RD., STE. 1B 732-244-1440

WWW.NJHOA.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

VAN HOLTEN’S Chocolates Also on the web at www.vhchocolate.com

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1904 “We don’t just sell candy...we create memories” Chocolate Covered Bacon & Porkroll Stem Cherries, Creams & Jellies Barks, Clusters, ButterCRUNCH & Cookies Chocolate Dipped Strawberries Over 40 Varieties of Chocolate Covered Pretzels

LARGEST SELECTION OF SUGAR FREE! Pre-made Gift Boxes of your favorite chocolates from 4oz. to 5lbs.

You can also pick your own variety!

ANY ORDER

With this coupon. Cannot be combined or used on prior purchases.

802 Ocean Terrace • Seaside Heights 732-830-2220 (On Casino Pier) HOURS: 10am-Seasonal Closing Times (please call)

TOMS RIVER – The next meeting of Silver/Holiday VFW Post 10185 will be held on Jan.4, at 1 p.m. at the Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse, 145 Westbrook Drive.

We will hold our meetings on the first Thursday of every month, starting January 2018. We meet in the daytime, so you do not have to drive at night.

To join our post, just bring a copy of your Discharge (DD-214) to our meeting and you will be signed up right away. You’ll be received with a hearty welcome and refreshments before the meeting. You will also have a chance to talk with fellow

Veterans and make new friends.

If you need a ride to the meeting or want more information, call Past Commander Raymond Opland at 732-505-0644.

Here is a schedule of upcoming VFW events: • Jan. 23 at 7 p.m.: VFW Post 10185’s Officers will attend VFW District 12’s meeting at VFW. Post 9503, Bayville where the latest VFW Programs and events will be discussed.

• Jan. 29: VFW Post 10185 celebrates our 40th Anniversary. Our National Charter was issued to 108 Post members.

Toms River’s ADA Committee Seeking New Members

10% OFF Van Holten’s Sweet Shop

Silver/Holiday VFW News For 2018

Van an Holten’s Chocolates 1893 RT. 88 • Brick • 732-840-0888 HOURS: M-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 10am-6pm

TOMS RIVER – The committee that advises Toms River on Americans with Disabilities Act compliance is seeking new members for 2018.

Applicants must be residents of Toms River and they should also be living with a disability, be a caregiver of a disabled individual, a professional person trained and experienced in providing services to persons with disabilities or a concerned member of the public.

The Committee is generally responsible for advising and making recommendations to the Mayor and Council on or-

dinances and policies related to persons with disabilities, concerns of disabled persons, accessible facilities, employment matters affecting individuals with disabilities as well as advocating on behalf of disabled persons in the Township.

The committee typically meets quarterly, though it may meet up to five times per year if scheduling permits. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. in town hall and are scheduled to end at 8:30 p.m.

For more information visit tomsrivertownship.com or call 732-341-1000, ext.

8417.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 21

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

OPEN DAILY YEAR ROUND!

Inside The Law Choosing The Right Automobile Insurance Will Protect Your Family And Assets

Robert C. Shea Esq.

601 Grand Central Avenue (Route 35 North) Lavallette, New Jersey

By Michael Deem Esq, of R.C. Shea and Associates

In 1998, the State of New Jersey adopted the Automobile Insurance Cost Reduction Act (AICRA) to reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing the benefits available to persons who are injured in automobile accidents. This means less coverage to pay for medical treatment and less rights to recover monetary damages from careless drivers who injure your family. Protect yourself.

Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. The failure to carry automobile insurance may be punishable by imprisonment.

When purchasing automobile insurance, you have two choices; you are required to select either a Basic Policy or a Standard Policy.

We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.

The Basic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in several areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries. The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else. The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets.

We recommend that you purchase a Standard Policy. A Standard Policy provides the best insurance coverage to protect your assets if you are sued and to provide compensation to you and your family if you/they are injured.

The Standard Policy does provide medical

expense benefits (PIP) Michael J. Deem coverage which includes medical expenses up to $250,000.00 per person per accident. The Standard Policy also provides you with Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM Benefits), so if you are injured by someone who does not have automobile insurance, is insured under a Basic Policy or leaves the scene of the collision then you and your family are covered for your losses.

When you purchase the Standard Policy you must elect a “tort option” that will determine your right to make a claim. You must select either the “limitation on lawsuit option” or the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” If you purchase the Basic Policy then you are assigned the “limitation on lawsuit option.”

We recommend that you choose the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” Ask your insurance representative what is the actual dollar amount that your overall premium will increase if you elect the “no limitation on lawsuit option.”

By choosing the “ limitation on lawsuit option” you are limiting you legal right to make a claim for monetary damages unless you sustain one of the following injuries: Death, Dismemberment; Significant scarring or disfigurement; Displaced Fractures; Loss of Fetus or a Permanent Injury that can been diagnosed by credible, objective medical testing.

Selecting the correct insurance coverage is extremely important when it comes to protecting your family and personal assets.

Call the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates 732-505-1212 for a free evaluation of your automobile insurance policy.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 ● RCSHEA.COM

TOMSRIVERONLINE.COM Information for Residents, 24/7 Exposure for Local Businesses

LOCAL INFORMATION: • Area Events • Restaurants • Things to Do • Local Business Directory AND MUCH MORE...

www.TomsRiverOnline.com » 732-929-0730

50% OFF

Buy 1 Entree Receive 2nd for 1/2 Price (of equal or lesser value)

Daily Lunch & Twilight Dinner Specials Twilights Starting at 11:30am (Go all evening Mon-Thurs until close; Friday to 6pm; Saturday & Sunday to 5pm) Entertainment on the Piano Tuesday thru Friday 12:30-3:00pm Sing Along with Frankie!

Lavallette • 732-793-4447

HAPPY HOUR: Mon-Thurs. 4-Close $1.50 OFF Drinks at Bar Complimentary Pass & Food 4-7pm

50% OFF

Monday: Football Free 1/2 Time Buffet Tuesday: Free Trivia 8pm w/Complimentary Pizza

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers, private parties or on holidays. Valid all day & night Sunday-Thursday, Friday & Saturday until 3pm. Exp 12/31/17.

Buy 1 Entree Receive 2nd for 1/2 Price (of equal or lesser value)

Lavallette • 732-793-4447

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers, private parties or on holidays. Valid all day & night Sunday-Thursday, Friday & Saturday until 3pm. Exp 12/31/17.

Wed: Free Bingo 7:30pm w/Prizes - Complimentary Pizza

Thurs: Football Free 1/2 Time Pizza Fri/Sat: Live Bands! Sunday Funday!

732-793-4447 • WWW.THECRABSCLAW.COM

Special Occasion Announcements The Toms River Times welcomes your special announcements!

Engagement, Wedding, Anniversary, Birth, Birthday Wishes, etc.

Publication fee of $24.95 includes photo* and 200 word limit.

The announcement will appear in Color and on ourWeb site!!

Mail or bring to: The Toms River Times, 15 Union Avenue, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 or e-mail to news@Jerseyshoreonline.com.

Enclose check or Visa/MasterCard/American Express information.

For more information or questions, please call 732-657-7344. *Photos will not be returned unless accompanied by a self addressed, stamped envelope.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

▪ Registered NJ Builder & Home Improvement Contractor ▪ Insured

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL! • Additions • Renovations • Kitchen & Bathroom • In-House Carpentry • Custom Decks • New Construction & More!

866-875-1992

PO Box 256 Lanoka Harbor, NJ

www.buildtriumph.com | Like & Follow!

Free IRS Training Provided

OCEAN COUNTY – Every year Fulfill helps complete thousands of free tax returns for people in need through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, resulting in millions of dollars returned to our communities through Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC). Monmouth and Ocean counties need additional volunteers in various capacities to help with this effort starting Jan. 22 throughApril 15.

Clients coming to tax sites are often focused on completing their taxes and getting back a refund.

For taxpayers receiving EITC refunds, this is the one time where they may be receiving a large sum of money and have an immediate opportunity to save a portion in a savings account for emergencies or other goals.

Volunteers will work at one or more of our community partner’s sites in Eatontown, Freehold, Long Branch, Union Beach, Toms River, and Lakewood to provide this valuable service.

Fulfill looking for volunteers to be either a Tax Preparer or Intake/Interview specialist.

Tax preparers will help prepare basic tax returns for taxpayers at community locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties. Fulfill provides free IRS training certification, including the use of electronic software Intake/interview specialists will provide support for Tax Preparers & Quality Reviewers at VITA sites: Will greet & screen tax clients; Help complete/check Intake forms for completion and confirm that clients brought all required documents to have their returns completed. Prepare packages for virtual returns; Assemble completed returns and provide mailing information. This role is perfect for those with no interest in preparing tax returns but love socializing and talking to people.

Anyone interested should contact Judy Daniels at jdaniels@fulfillnj.org. Training begins in December.

Caregiver Canines Brings Therapy Dogs to Homebound Seniors

By Kimberly Bosco

OCEAN COUNTY – Who doesn’t love the company of a sweet little canine companion?

If you’re a dog-loving senior but don’t have the ability to look after a pet of your own, Caregiver Canines can bring you a temporary furry companion!

Caregiver Canines is a non-profit program offered in Ocean County by Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey. The program brings certified therapy dogs to visit seniors at their homes for a little play time.

This program is no charge and perfect for seniors, like Stella, who live at home and

are not able to get out much. Stella is visited once a week by a therapy dog named Christy from Caregiver Canines. Stella and Christy spend some quality time together each week and Stella looks forward to the visits because it allows her to have the enjoyment of a pet without the difficulty of looking after her 24/7.

A Caregiver Canines coordinator can match you with a volunteer and a therapy dog for one-to-one visits in your home that last about one to two hours.

For more information, call the CVCJ office at 732-505-2273, or email info@caregivervolunteers.org.

Philosophy: Magnolia Gardens is a family owned and operated Assisted Living Community that serves individuals who desire maximum independence while benefiting from 24-hour access to an array of personal and healthcare services.

Thank you for letting our family take care of yours.

1935 LAKEWOOD ROAD (RT 9 NORTH) • TOMS RIVER, NJ 08755

732.557.6500 • WWW.MAGNOLIAAL.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 23

OFFICIALS: ADDICTION MUST BE ADDRESSED FROM ALL SIDES

WE SELL & SERVICE WIGS & HAIR PIECES!

Chris-Tina’s Salon 564 Lakehurst Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08755

OPEN

MONDAY

THRU SATURDAY!

Across from M&T Bank Need a ride? OCEAN RIDE can get you here!

QUANTUM PERM, WASH & WEAR OR BODY WAVE WITH HAIRCUT (Long Hair Extra)

$

29

50

With coupon. New customers only. Exp. 3/30/18.

MATRIX PERM, WASH & WEAR OR BODY WAVE & HAIRCUT (Long Hair Extra)

$

39

50

With coupon. New customers only. Exp. 3/30/18.

Walk-Ins Welcome! • Call 732-341-5454 A Unisex Salon Specializing in Color, Foils, Frosting & Razor Cuts

–Photo by Chris Lundy A town hall meeting about the opioid epidemic was held at Greenbriar I.

By Chris Lundy

BRICK - The problem of addiction goes beyond just the chemical need for drugs, officials said. The discussion was held during a recent town hall-style meeting at the Greenbriar 1 clubhouse as part of a series of events to Knock Out Opioid Abuse. There were a few dozen local residents in attendance, as well as members of the Brick Memorial High School Key Club.

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato explained that the current mix of heroin and fentanyl is what is killing so many people.

It can only be stopped by attacking it on three fronts, he said. The first is education, to keep people from trying drugs in the first place. The second is enforcement, to arrest dealers who prey on people.

The third is to break the cycle of addiction.

Several local police departments have instituted the Blue Hart (Heroin Addiction Recovery Treatment) program, where users are able to turn in their drugs without charges and be screened for addiction programs. The county works with Preferred Behavioral Health Group and Hackensack Meridian Health.

Kelli Chiarello, the Behavioral Health Clinical Program Manager for Hackensack Meridian, was also one of the speakers. She said that part of the counseling is to have someone talk to them who is “a peer or someone trained to be open-minded.”

Addiction comes from multiple sources, and it is often a mix, she said. There could be people who are genetically pre-disposed to addiction. They could have been through something that makes them need it psychologically. Also, drugs can just be common in their environment.

“These opiates and heroin work because it feels good” to them, she said. Even if someone tells them that the drugs are having a harmful effect, they don’t feel that yet. “They’re hearing it, but in their world, it doesn’t make sense.”

Brick Police Chief James Riccio said that there were 16 overdoses in Brick in 2015. In 2016, that had skyrocketed to 108. In 2017, they were at more than 200.

“The traditional way of addressing the problem wasn’t working,” he said.

Riccio stressed that the people overdosing were not the “stereotypical addict.” They were people in good neighborhoods, who were engaged in the community.

That’s why education has to start as young as pos-

sible, he said. Additionally, adults need to be trained on what to look for in addictive behavior. Adults also need to clear out the medicine cabinets since many addicts start with prescription painkillers.

Last year, Brick collected 1,582 pounds of unused pills, he said. This year, since Blue Hart started, they have seen about 250 people.

“I’ll come in the morning, and people are in our lobby with pillows and luggage, waiting to go to treatment,” he said.

After they are screened by police, they are sent to either Hackensack Meridian or Preferred Behavioral. Anthony Castellano is a social worker with Preferred. He said that there is a misconception that once you go through treatment, you’re cured. There needs to be ongoing care to prevent an addict from going back to drugs. Often, the counselors want a loved one there to explain post-treatment care so that they can keep the recovering addict from relapsing.

“You can get someone clean, but once the cravings come back, they’ll go back to using,” he said.

There are medicines to dampen the cravings, but they are expensive and aren’t always covered by insurance, he said. However, the actual addiction is often a symptom of something greater.

“Everyone with an addiction has an underlying issue,” he said. “If you don’t get to that issue, they may not be cured.”

During a question and answer period, Coronado elaborated on this last point. He said that 75 percent of the addicts they’ve engaged with have mental health issues.

Riccio said that a lot of addiction starts with a simple injury. “Doctors just want to stop your pain,” so they prescribe painkillers.

One of the students asked if the legalization of marijuana would help ease the epidemic.

“There’s no denying that marijuana can be used medicinally,” Chiarello said. However, in this case it would act as a gateway drug. “It’s not a replacement.

It’s just a Band-Aid.” Two residents said that the court system treats people as addicts even after they’ve been clean, and future employers see it as a big blot on their record. It’s hard to move on after having an addiction because everyone - even the police - still sees you as an addict.

Coronato said that people still have to answer for any crimes they committed while being an addict.

It’s part of the dues that have to be paid in order to get back into the work force.

Everyday Prices

14 $ 14 $ 14 $

& UP

& UP

& UP

Wash & Haircut Wash & Set Blow Dry

IT&LY • Goldwell

Matrix • Wella • Clairol

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 24, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

BUSINESS DIRECTORY L &B

General Maintenance & Power Washing

Mobile & Residential Home Repairs HVAC Duct Cleaning & Dryer Vent Cleaning

Heating & Cooling 732.240.9059 Est. 1985

Larry Braun Jr. Owner

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS!

EFFECTIVE › AFFORDABLE VISA, MASTERCARD & AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCEPTED DISCOUNT PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

CALL 732.657.7344 TO FIND OUT HOW!

CASH BUYERS OF ALL SCRAP METALS DRIVE ON SCALE AVAILABLE

Larry Braun 3rd

NJ HIC# 13VH01116700

Toms River, NJ

• Steel • Aluminum • Copper • Wire • ACR • Brass • Appliances • Batteries • Stainless Container Service Available

Felder Plumbing LLC

ALL CALLS ANSWERED

732-312-7201

Affordable Repairs

Senior Discounts

Convenient Location On The Corner Of Rt 166 & Flint Rd 98 FLINT RD., SOUTH TOMS RIVER NJ

732.286.6358

Insured NJMPL#9638 Bonded RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL WORK

www.tristatecarting.com

Adaptive Home Therapy, Inc. IN-HOME SERVICES Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Speech Therapy

OVER 30 YEARS IN OCEAN COUNTY

24 HOUR Sales@alarmland.com

J&B PERKINS

GENERAL CONTRACOR, LLC

Specializing in Roofing, Siding Renovations & Repairs 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Fully Insured & Licensed 609.242.3946 732.674.4121

EMERGENCY SERVICE Like Us on Facebook!

Lic# 11244

• New Construction & Installations • Generators & Panels • Maintenance & Repair

732-269-5333 www.bahrandsons.com

REPLACE YOUR RUSTED WROUGHT IRON RAILINGS WITH MAINTENANCE-FREE POWDER COATED

ALUMINUM RAILINGS BY CICCONE Turning the ORDINARY into EXTRAORDINARY for over 70 years!

Railings • Gates • Spiral Staircases • FREE ESTIMATES CUSTOMRAILING@GMAIL.COM

CALL 732.349.7071

Lic# 13VH07811200

WWW.THERAILINGKINGS.COM Lic# 13VH05304800

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!

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

Jeff’s Powerwashing

With This Ad. Lic. No 13VH04848400

732-300-6251

MEDICARE PART B ACCEPTED NO “HOMEBOUND” REQUIREMENT

CALL 732.886.6996

www.adaptivehometherapy.com Since 1928

$25 OFF With This Ad

PLUMBING • HEATING • COOLING

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

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

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE! CHOOSE FROM ANY OR ALL PAPERS: Toms River Times • Manchester Times Berkeley Times • Brick Times • Jackson Times Howell Times • Southern Ocean Times

CALL 732.657.7344 TODAY TO SPEAK WITH A SALES REP! Lic. #9575

Hot Water and Soap • Mold Removal Houses • Patios • Roofs Washed

732-901-5336 Insured Lic.# 13VH01634500

Senior Discounts • Free Estimates NO HIGH PRESSURE USED Low Pressure Roof Stain Removal Safely Washing Houses & Roofs for Over 15 Years

Residential – Commercial – Bonded & Insured Back Up Generators • Portable Generator Hook Ups • Service Changes Swimming Pools • Hot Tubs • Recess Lighting • Landscape Lighting Storm Damage • Renovations • New Construction

For All Your Electrical Needs!

732-269-0997

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 25

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

For Rent Brick River View - 3 Bedrooms, 2 baths, $1,500/month plus utilities. 1 1/2 month security.

Call 732-477-9498. (t/n)

Full Time CMA/CHHA - The Pines at Whiting is looking for experienced CMA/CHHA to work Full Time in our Clinic in our Independent Living area. Hours for the position are 2-10, Monday – Friday. Candidates must have BOTH an active CHHA and CMA License in the State of NJ Apply in Person to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@thepinesatwhiting.org (52)

Ramblin Acres Kennel in Jackson is looking to hire full and part time employees. Experience with animal care is recommended and must be willing to work weekends. Please call 732-370-8628 to inquire.

(5)

Items Wanted 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) $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ 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) WE BUY USED CARS - Any condition, any make, any year. We also specialize in buying Classic Porshe, Mercedes and Jaguar running or not, DEAD OR ALIVE. 609-598-3622. (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-abrac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) 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) 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)

Items For Sale 14’ Pace Craft Fiberglass Boat & Yacht Club Trailer - Two Minn Kota electric trolling motors, two fish finders, four pole holders, two cushions, one battery, life vests. $1750 or B/O. 732-849-5028. (t/n)

Help Wanted Work At Home - Calling property managers. Need computer and laptop.

9:30 am to 12 or 1 - 4 pm. Salary and bonus. Call 908-489-3412.

(46) The Goddard School on Route 70 in Toms River - Is hiring for multiple full time and part time positions! We provide a warm, loving environment for children ages from 6 weeks to 6 years. We are looking for fun, energetic teachers. Must be available Monday through Friday, between the hours of 6:30am-6pm.

Looking to hire immediately. Salary based on experience. Benefits include Paid time off, 401K, and paid lunch on Fridays. To learn more about our available positions or to set up an interview call 732363-5530 or email your resume to dtomsriver2nj2@goddardschools.com.

Custodian Wanted - Part time Monday through Friday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. senior clubhouse. Call 732-350-2656. or fax resume to 732-350-2838.

(2) Sales/Marketing - Part time Jackson office. Hours 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 1-800-361-9881.

(46)

Registered Nurse – The Pines at Whiting is looking for two compassionate RN’s to provide care to residents in our skilled nursing/ rehab community. Minimum 1-2 years experience required as well as experience with EMR. One RN 7-3 (22.50 hours a week e/o), and one RN 3-11 (16 hours a week e/o w/e). For immediate consideration apply to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@thepinesatwhiting.org (52) Part Time Food Service - We have an immediate need for Part Time Waitstaff/Servers AM and PM shifts available, Dietary Aides, PT Dishwashers. We are a well established retirement/healthcare community located in Whiting. We offer competitive pay. Under the direction of great Food Service leadership team, you will be working in an environment where you get the support and training needed to grow in your culinary career. The Pines offers an open door policy and Senior Leadership is always available and visible to our employees every day. Rate of pay starts at $9.00/hr.

Apply in Person to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@thepinesatwhiting.org (52) Personal Assistant/Driver Howell/Hamilton, NJ - Personal Assistant/Driver wanted for disabled professional from Monday through Friday from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (must be flexible with hours). The ideal candidate must be able to lift 100 lbs. and have reliable transportation. A good driving record is a must. Experience preferred. Salary set by the state of NJ. For more information, call 848-245-0962. (1) Now Hiring Property Inspectors - FT/PT in your area. Full, free training provided. jim.g59@ comcast.net or msangelabove@ comcast.net. 732-766-4425, 201259-0734. Ask for Mel. (51) Laundromat Attendant - For PT/ FT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863.

(1) PT Weekend CNA/CHHA - The Pines at Whiting is looking for experienced CNA’s/CHHA’s to provide excellence in care to our residents on our Assisted Living Unit and Skilled Nursing units. If you are looking for an environment that rewards excellence, provides a fun work environment you should look no further!

7-3 CNA – Skilled Nursing Unit (( days per bi-weekly pay period). Weekend commitment positions on all 3-11/11-7.

Weekend program requires a commitment of 4 weekend shifts per month. Special weekend rates available for weekend commitment positions. Apply in Person to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@thepinesatwhiting.org (52) 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)

Services PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Celebrating 50 years of service in NJ. 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 732-5003063 or 609-356-2444. (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) Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior.

Decks, powerwashing. Affordable.

Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (6) Joan’s Dog Training - In home sessions, consultation, basic obedience, puppy training, behavior issues. Use games to train. Certified.

Insured. 908-759-1196.

(50) Need A Ride - Airports, cruise, A.C., doctors. Save $$$. Senior discounts.

Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227.

(3) Painting - By neat, meticulous craftsman who will beat any written estimate. Interior/exterior. Free estimate. Fully insured. 732-5067787, 646-643-7678.

(47) All Around Yard And Home Maintenance – Outdoor, indoor work done to your satisfaction. Spring thru Winter. Cleaning, home repairs, yard upgrades, etc. References upon request. Very diligent. Fair estimates.

Eddie Zsoka 732-608-4781. (50) A Senior Home Companion/Caregiver Svc. - Insuring Peace of Mind for 20 plus years. A Private Contracting of each Caregiver. 24l7 and daily care schedules available. Please call or text 732-278-3770 for an evaluation of all your needs.

(52) Treasurer/Bookkeeping Services For churches/non-profit/condos (when volunteers are hard to find).

Reasonable rates. 732-988-8563 or cnjtreasurer@aol.com.

(2) RC Hammer Home Improvement/ Handyman - Experienced in all phases of home repair/improvements. Reasonable rates. Reliabel work. No job too small. Insured.

NJ LIC #VH07304600. Call Ric 908-330-6146.

(5) Single Storm Doors – You supply, I install. $85 and up. 732-580-9120.

Lic #13VH08645300.

(44) 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)

Services Don Carnevale Painting - Specializing interiors. Very neat.

Special senior discounts. Reasonable, affordable, insured. References. Low winter rates. License #13VH3846900. 732-899-4470 or 732-814-4851. Thank you.

(50) Removal Service - We Haul It All! Household junk, yard waste, trees/ shrubs, furniture, appliances, construction debris, metals, concrete, dirt/ sand and stone. Also specializing in Landscaping, masonry and all fields of construction. Serving Ocean County area. Call now! 732-998-4725. (52) 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.

(49)

Services

Services

Griffin Landscaping - Trees and bushes trimmed or removed. Stone, brick, pavers, mulch and retaining walls. Painting (indoors and out). Powerwashing. 609-661-2008.

(46) I Will Clean Your Home - Very good prices. Call 732-773-5078. (4)

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. (t/n)

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

Insured. NJ license #13HV01888400.

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

(47)

BUY DIRECT FLOORING DuPont stainmaster or commercial carpet from $11 yd. installed. RITZ luxury vinyl planking 3mm 20mil wear layer2.75ft. installed. Quality remnants 732-504-9286.

(1)

Home Health Care Company Now Hiring RN’s, LPN’s and CHHA in Ocean & Monmouth Counties!

Flexible scheduling. Work in your community. Weekly pay. Career advancement. Comprehensive benefits. Call 732-505-8000 today. (t/n)

Attention - Home owners, bussinesses, contractors, realtors - CASH towards property damage. Don’t hesitate. Call or text Joe 201-852-4417. Free consultation.

Licensed/bonded NJ PA. Career oppertunities available.

(8)

Classifieds are placed in all 7 of our weekly newspapers covering all of Ocean County, and also Howell in Monmouth County.

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

clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within 2. Print ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

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.

check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in 4. Make MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS – NO DISCOVER – info. below:

Credit Card#

Exp.

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name: or bring To: 15 Union Ave., Lakehurst, NJ 08733. Credit Card Orders 5. Mail can be faxed to : 732-657-7388.

include your BIlling address and contact phone number (this is required) 6. Please Address Town Phone Number

ZIP

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 26, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

MAIN STREET SHELL

NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE

Serving Toms River For 30 Years

High School East Dedicates Military Support Wall

WE AIN’T JUST GAS...

We’re A Full Service Gas Station NJ State Inspection· No Lines No Waiting· Try Us!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 732-244-1557

HANDS FOR ALL A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC. A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 309 Hooper Ave. • Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

DOWNTOWN TOMS RIVER 305 MAIN STREET

“PINKEYE” TREATMENT

While “acute conjunctivitis” (more commonly known as “pinkeye”) is caused by a viral infection, allergy, or bacterial infection, the majority of cases are due to a virus or allergy. Even though viruses and allergic reactions do not respond to antibiotics, nearly 60 percent of patients with pinkeye are prescribed antibiotics. A study that looked at approximately 340,000 people diagnosed with pinkeye over a 14-year period went on to say that non-specialists such as family physicians and urgent-care providers diagnosed more than 80 percent of the cases and were 2-3 times more likely to prescribe antibiotic drops than eye specialists. Researchers think that the non-specialists were more likely to prescribe antibiotics “just in case” because they were unsure of the cause.

At SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES, P.A., you will find a compassionate and experienced team who are dedicated to providing a full spectrum of high-quality personalized eye care for your whole family. Our goal is to meet and exceed your expectations by providing friendly service, professional care, and quality products at affordable prices. To schedule an eye exam, please call 732-349-5622. Our goal is to meet and exceed your expectations by providing friendly service, professional care, and quality products at affordable prices.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622

BRICK (732) 477-6981

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020

www.oceancountyeye.com P.S. If pinkeye causes pain or a thick discharge in addition to redness, it is time to see the ophthalmologist.

BANKRUPTCY Chapter 7 | Chapter 13 • • • • • •

Stop Bank Levies!

Stop Wage Garnishments!

Stop Creditor Harassment!

Stop Foreclosure! Loan Modifications Stop Eviction!

ELIMINATE Credit Card & Medical Debt

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION: Call DAVID WITHERSPOON, ESQ. Attorney-at-Law 502 Bay Blvd, Seaside Heights, NJ 08751 973-991-0736 • daveslaw321@gmail.com

LOW RATES: PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE David Witherspoon, Attorney-at-Law, is a Debt Relief Agency. A firm dedicated to helping individuals find relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

–Photo courtesy Miranda family Two members of the newly created Military Support Club participated in a memorial wreath ceremony during the dedication. The students were: US Army PFC Joseph Gamboa (left) and US Army PFC Steven Cruz.

By Jennifer Peacock

TOMS RIVER – High School East dedicated the school’s new Military Support Wall on Veterans Day. Fallen U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Denis C. Miranda was also honored with a memorial ceremony.

Miranda, a 2003 East graduate and swim-team member, enlisted shortly after graduation and became a Navy SEAL in 2007. He and eight other service members were killed in Afghanistan in 2010 when their Blackhawk helicopter crashed while trying to land.

Miranda was honored by the township with a memorial highway, The Denis C. Miranda, USN, Memorial Highway, located on Bay Avenue near the corner of Fischer Boulevard.

But the high school wanted to do something too.

The Military Support Wall is made of two display cases located in the school lobby by the cafeteria. One case is dedicated to Miranda’s memory; the other case displays active duty East graduates.

The newly created Military Support Club planned the ceremony, as well as created the displays that were unveiled Veterans

Day. “The school spirit at High School East is strong and Denis Miranda was a part of our Raider family,” Scott Kenny, HSE safety officer and co-advisor of the Military Support Club, said. “Many teachers and staff members remember Denis and were very emotional during the creation of this project and during the ceremony.”

HSE educator and Navy captain Phillip Beachy serves as a co-advisor of the Club and led the students in the ceremony. Also participating were U.S. Army PFC Joseph Gamboa and U.S. Army PFC Steven Cruz.

U.S. Army Captain and teacher Rob Roma attended the ceremony.

The high school chorus performed for guests, which included current students, administrators, teachers, and members of Miranda’s family.

“Today, we honor those who put themselves before others, those who stand up for their beliefs, and those who make sacrifices by serving their country,” Principal Pat Thomas said.

HSE alumni who would like to be added to the display and club website can fill out a form at bit.ly/2hGkw8k.

Learn About “American Women And Royal Marriages” With The OCHS TOMS RIVER – Join members and friends of the Ocean County Historical Society for a fun and informative afternoon learning about the “dollar princesses” of the Gilded Age, on Sunday, Jan. 28 at 2 p.m. Attend the program, entitled “American Women and Royal Marriages: New Jersey’s Real-Life ‘Lady Coras,’” that will teach you all about the era when

wealthy American heiresses married titled, but poor, European nobility.

Specialist Professor of Public History at Monmouth University, Melissa Ziobro, will present the program, informing us about hundreds of these marriages, including brides with roots in New Jersey.

Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Light refreshments will be served.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 27

Kids Coloring Raffle THERE WILL BE TWO WINNERS This is a coloring raffle, meaning the picture will not be judged. We wish everyone good luck in the raffle and happy coloring!

PLEASE MAIL ARTWORK TO: Coloring Contest 15 Union Avenue Lakehurst, NJ 08733 All Submissions due by January 12.

NAME: TOWN: AGE: PHONE NUMBER:

Ages 12 and under!

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 28, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

UNDER NEW OWNE R SHIP

Happy New Year!

TheYoFactor.com

No coupon necessary

Expires 12/31/2017

12 Delicious Flavors!

Over 50 Toppings!

Code: TRT2

Dairy & Sugar Free Options Hershey’s Ice Cream Milkshakes Host a Charity Giveback Party Perfect Healthy Treat After Dinner/Movie

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

(Next to Marquee Cinema) • 1311 Rt 37 W • Toms River, NJ 08755 • 732-276-8106 Owner Operated

Quality Work

Alzheimer’s Support Group

1st Saturday of Each Month at Noon (Call for details) In a Safe, Comfortable Setting Like the Home They’ve Always Known!

Specialized care for the memory impaired from your home to our home Safe & comfortable care • 24-Hour supervision • Private bedrooms Safe & secure grounds • Activities 7 days a week

2307 5th Ave • Toms River • 732.288.0331 additions - alterations - basements attic fan installation - bathrooms custom moulding - debri removal decks - doors - drywall framing - kitchens - windows house raise from start to finish

free estimates

2 year

warranty on workmanship

Fully licensed and governed under the NJ Department of Health & Senior Service.

732-290-CARE (2273) www.alcoeurgardens.com

Brick • 320 Herbertsville Road Toms River • 1126 Lakewood Road

NJ HIC# 13VH01219300 • Fully Insured

RC R.C.SHEA S

exclusive offer

10% OFF any project

&ASSOCIATES

must mention ad

COUNSELLORS AT LAW

BUYING, SELLING, OR REFINANCING YOUR HOME? A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM 189 Route 37 • Toms River, NJ (1/4 Mile W. of GSP) 74 Brick Blvd. • Brick, NJ (The Pavillion) 623 Lacey Rd. • Forked River, NJ

732-349-4949

Silvio M. Silvi Neil D. Honschke Ralph F. Fedele

• Personal Injury • Workers’ Compensation • Municipal Court • Wills / Living Wills / POA • Estate Probate • Estate Administration • Real Estate Closings

PROMPT & PROFESSIONAL REPRESENTATION

www.sfhlaw.com

SERIOUS LEGAL MATTERS REQUIRE SERIOUS AND EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS

KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS! (House Calls By Appointment)

TOMS RIVER OFFICE 244 Main Street Toms River, NJ 08753 (732) 505-1212

MANCHESTER AREA (732) 408-9455 BRICK AREA (732) 451-0800

WWW. RCSHEA.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 29

SUEZ Is Prepared For Potential Seasonal Emergencies TOMS RIVER – SUEZ announced that it is prepared to take all necessary measures during the upcoming hurricane season, which begins June 1 and lasts through November 30.

According to the National Weather Service, this timeframe is most favorable for strong storm or tropical-like climate development.

“We watch the weather very carefully and we’ll be prepared to make any operating adjustments necessary to maintain the integrity of our facilities and water supplies,” said Jim Mastrokalos, Director of Operations. “When the National Weather Service predicts a storm, our goal is to make certain we’re prepared to provide uninterrupted service and respond as quickly as possible to any emergency situations.”

According to Mastrokalos, specific measures include testing backup generators, ensuring that water storage facilities are full and maintaining an extra supply of water treatment compounds.

Company officials also work closely with local emergency response teams to coordinate emergency preparation and response activities.

“Many local agencies and organizations team together with SUEZ to prepare for hurricanes and other severe storms,” said Mastrokalos.

“We also urge our customers be weather ready by checking their personal emergency preparedness plans,” he added.

Mastrokalos said that customers should be sure to protect their property and ensure they have emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries and food before an emergency strikes.

“While SUEZ will continue to do our best to keep the water flowing during an emergency, we encourage our customers to store extra tap water in food-grade storage containers,” said Mastrokalos.

Before filling containers with drinking water, they should be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water, then rinsed with clean water and sealed with original tops. Place a “drinking water” label on the containers and include a storage date. Be careful not to store containers in direct sunlight or in areas near toxic substances such as gasoline or chemicals. Additional, helpful emergency preparedness tips are available at fema.gov.

If an emergency action plan is activated, customers can obtain updated information by calling 877-565-1456, visiting mysuezwater. com or SUEZ Water South Jersey social media channels.

Heart-Healthy Holiday Tips ROBINSVILLE – The holidays are a time for celebrating with family and friends, but often stress inhibits our abilities to enjoy the holiday season. From shopping to cooking to events, we are often packing our schedules while forgetting about our health.

A 2016 report in the Journal of the American Heart Association noted that heart-related deaths spike during Christmas. While more research is needed to pinpoint the exact reason, researchers suggest that emotional stress, changes in diet and alcohol consumption, less staff at medical facilities and changes in physical environment (i.e. visiting relatives), could play a role in the spike in deaths.

In order to protect your heart and enjoy more holidays with your loved ones, follow these tips to stay healthy and happy this season: Maintain healthy habits, such as eating healthy, balanced meals, moving more every day, and getting at least seven hours of sleep each night.

Beware of party perils and try eating a healthy snack before a party to avoid overindulging.

Give yourself the gift of peace; if you start to feel overwhelmed, recharge by doing something that relaxes you.

Make a plan for the New Year and challenge yourself with realistic, sustainable goals for a healthy, happy new year.

While avoiding stress and making good choices can help prevent heart disease and stroke (the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers) it’s still important to know what to do if you or a loved one experiences the signs and symptoms of heart attack, stroke or cardiac arrest.

If you or a loved one experiences the warning signs of heart attack, stroke or cardiac arrest, call 9-1-1 immediately.

For more healthy living tips, visit the new Healthy For Good website at healthyforgood.org.

For more information about heart attack, stroke and cardiac arrest, visit heart.org/warningsigns.

To learn more about CPR, visit cpr.heart.org.

La Bove Grande Restaurant & Banquet Open 7 Days Lunch & Dinner Early Bird Specials 7 Days Starting at $11.95

New Years Eve Sit Down Dinner

From 4:30 to 10:00pm - If Elegant Dining Is Your Preference, Join Us In Our Health Room Reservations Required.

New Years Eve Gala - $110pp

Package includes 5 hours open bar, Hors D’ouvres, Unlimited Fresh rolled Sushi, Dinner; Surf & Turf, Hats, Noise makers, Champagne toast, Viennese Table with Chocolate fountain, Hot Coffee or Tea.

Early Bird

Starting At

$11.95

7 Days: Sun. - Thurs. 12:00 - 6:00 Fri. - Sat. 12:00 - 4:30

Friday Seafood Extravaganza

4:00pm - 10:00pm • Complete Dinner

$19.95

800 Route 70 • Lakehurst, NJ 08733

For Reservations: (732) 657-8377 • Visit us on the internet for more information:

www.labovegrande.net • facebook.com/labovegrande

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM! LOOK FOR A VARIETY OF PHOTOS SNAPPED ALL AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE!

Search: @JSHOREONLINE

LISTEN ON WOBM AM 1160 & 1310 PREFERRED COMPANY! Featuring

Joel & Marianne Monday–Friday 8-10 a.m.

Be sure to tune in for...

GAME SHOW WEDNESDAY for a chance to win fabulous gift certificates to local restaurants & more!

preferredradio.com

RIVERFRONT DENTAL CARE WELCOMES DR. SINIKKA KAZANJIAN! Dr. Rella and Dr. Stein are excited to announce that Dr. Sinikka Kazanjian has joined our team at Riverfront Dental Care. Dr. Kazanjian received her doctorate of medical dentistry from the University of Pennsylvania, then continued her training as chief resident at Monmouth Medical Center.

Dr. Kazanjian's caring personality along with her clinical expertise has allowed her to develop lasting relationships with patients in Ocean County over the past 16 years. Her compassion for patient care results in optimal dental health in achieving a beautiful smile.

She was born and raised in Piscataway, NJ and currently resides in Toms River with her husband Greg and 3 beautiful children.

Dr. Rella and Dr. Stein believe that her commitment to excellence will be an asset to our dental practice. We welcome the opportunity for you to meet her.

Please contact our office and schedule an appointment.

RIVERFRONT DENTAL CARE • 117 EAST WATER ST • TOMS RIVER, NJ 08753 732-349-1295 • WWW.RIVERFRONTDENTISTS.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 30, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 “I Love Lucy” airer 4 Search, in a way 9 “I Love Lucy” role 14 Caucasian native 15 Havens 16 __ football 17 Detergent in a red container 18 Kind of curl 19 More miffed 20 O 23 Inca __: Peruvian soft drink 24 Taxing people?

25 Meet at the poker table 26 Twitter follower, usually 2 8 H o r s e shoe-shaped boat part 32 O 37 Garden pond fish 38 Crook’s invention

39 Meteor tail?

40 Ancient Greek physician 42 Author Deighton 43 O 46 Angles for iron users 48 Course for newcomers: Abbr.

49 “... __ the set of sun”: “Macbeth” 50 Seven-film franchise 52 Smooth over 56 Site of confused activity, and a hint to 20-, 32- and 43-Across 61 Stockpile 62 Sportscast analysis 63 “Rumour __ It”: 2011 Adele hit 64 First sign 65 In need of change?

66 Spacewalk initials 67 Brief copy?

68 Spoke Abyssinian?

69 “L.A. Law” actress

Down 1 It’s always dated 2 Grand Canyon animal 3 Spiral-shelled creature 4 View from the Qilian Mountains 5 Coming down 6 Muppet in a can 7 Strips off 8 “Outside the Lines” airer 9 Hidden DVD features 10 Garden tool 11 Sub 12 U.S. dept. with a windmill on its seal 13 Escapade 21 Classic 20-Across 22 Genesis name 27 Was supervised by 28 R.E.M.’s “The __ Love” 29 St. with a panhandle 30 “Fargo” director

31 Warmhearted 32 Undisguised 33 Toast topping 34 Word seen under a deer silhouette 35 YouTube clips, for short 36 RR schedule listing 41 More capable 44 Hungarian wine region 45 Widely criticized 1985 product introduction 47 Rude sort 50 Bedroom noise 51 Warmly lit 53 Yearned 54 Polished 55 SAT part that’s judged 56 Wielder of Mjšlnir 57 Perfect 58 Grating sound 59 SALT topic 60 More than annoyed

(c)2017 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

WINDY DRIFT SLEEPY VIABLE -- BIRD’S-EYE VIEW

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017, Page 31

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of december 30 - january 5

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr. 19): Ho-ho-home is where the heart is. Surround yourself with those whom you care about the most and enjoy the warmth of the holiday season together. There may be little to be gained from last minute shopping expeditions.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Remember to leave out the milk and cookies. The object of your affection will be sure to leave extravagant goodies in your stocking and show you how much they care. Romance may blossom to a new level tonight.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Make sure the sleigh runs on schedule. Conflicting social obligations may create a brief period of turmoil, so you may need to set priorities to keep things running smoothly. Those around you make look to you for guidance.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Be a Scrooge ... after he was visited by the three ghosts, that is.

You’ll find no greater satisfaction than giving to others and spreading good cheer. Remember that the cost of a gift is irrelevant as it is the thought that counts.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Peace on earth, goodwill to man. Imbibing a little too much holiday spirit could cause some tempers to flare but you are the one who can diffuse things by spreading a little joy. Drive home the lesson that the best things in life are free.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Santa would get nowhere without his elves working behind the scenes. Take charge as it will be your planning and attention to detail that will make holiday festivities successful. Go out of your way to create a little magic.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): Over the river and through the woods. Holiday outings could be a memorable source of adventure and fun. Joy and merriment will be contagious, and you won’t have to work very hard to create a festive atmosphere.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Stick with the program. The hectic nature of the holidays may have everyone pulling in separate directions, so you may need to be the voice of reason. You may need to remind others that there are only so many hours in a day.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22- Dec. 21): A rolling stone gathers no mistletoe. Seeing all your holiday plans through may require you to stay in motion as if you rest you may just stall altogether.

A close friend or loved one may finally provide a long-awaited answer.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- Jan. 19): Grin and bear it. While the holidays are about spending time with loved ones, certain relatives may be kind of a chore to endure. You may be genuinely surprised when the least likely person turns out to be your secret Santa.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20- Feb. 18): Go with the flow. It may take a little effort to find your holiday spirit but once you get into the swing of things you’ll have a ball. Don’t be shy if you find yourself among new faces as you will most likely make fast friends.

PISCES (Feb. 19- Mar. 20): Have it your way. Whether you want to attend a big holiday bash or spend an intimate evening with a special someone, it’s all up to you. Sometimes a comfortable silence with a loved one can say more than a deep conversation.

(c) 2017 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

wolfgang puck’s kitchen Kid Corner:Thumbprint Cookies Give Kids A Hands-On Holiday Baking Experience

By Wolfgang Puck

At no time of year do children want to help out in the kitchen more than during the holidays. It’s easy to understand why.

The aromas are tantalizing. The parade of foods is beautiful and delicious. Plus, school is out and the weather is colder, so the kids are indoors more and probably itching for an activity. Why wouldn’t little hands want to join in the kitchen fun? My four my sons, especially before they reached double-digit ages, have always been eager to cook with me as Christmas approaches.

The challenge of having kids helping in the kitchen is finding simple hands-on tasks that not only feel like fun and are relatively safe to do, but also produce results they’re happy to eat. That’s why cookies, especially basic ones, make especially good choices.

Thumbprint cookies are among my favorite varieties to make with young ones. These usually one- or two-bite treats, named for the indentation made in each cookie, have been around for at least two centuries, and their origin has been claimed by countries and cultures across central and eastern Europe and north into Scandinavia, where the Swedes descriptively call them hallongrottor, literally “raspberry caves.”

Raspberry jam is, indeed, a very traditional filling for the tender, crumbly cookies.

But you can substitute different flavors of jam, jelly or marmalade; or try chocolate ganache - a mixture of melted chocolate and a little cream. The dough is a simple butter cookie mixture, which I richly flavor in my recipe for chocolate-raspberry thumbprint cookies with unsweetened cocoa powder and melted bittersweet chocolate. Other versions of the dough may include ground almonds or hazelnuts, or orange or lemon extract brightened with some grated zest. Feel free to experiment with any combination that sounds good to you.

With Christmas upon us, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare with the children. Let them help you measure out the ingredients.

Have them stand safely clear of the stand mixer or handheld electric mixer while you mix the dough. After you’ve cleared away the beaters into the sink, invite the kids to help you gather the dough from the bowl and wrap it for refrigeration. Then, let them take charge - under your close supervision, of course - when it comes to shaping the chilled dough into balls and pressing thumbs into their centers to make the indentations.

Finally, after you’ve taken care of the baking and the cookies have cooled, your helpers can mastermind filling them with the jam.

Here’s a final hint: It doesn’t really matter how neatly they do it! The cookies will still be delicious - so good, in fact, that you should have enough ingredients on hand to make another batch very soon after Christmas!

C HO COL AT E - R A SPBER RY

THUMBPRINT COOKIES Makes about 6 dozen 3 cups (750 mL) plus 3 tablespoons allpurpose flour 1/4 cup (60 mL) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 4 ounces (125 g) bittersweet chocolate, cut into small pieces 3/4 pound (375 g), 3 sticks, unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into small pieces 1 1/3 cups (335 mL) confectioners’ sugar, sifted 2 large egg yolks Raspberry jam, at room temperature Line 1 or 2 baking trays with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa and salt. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, bring about 2 inches (5 cm) of water to a boil. Put the chocolate in a bowl large enough to rest inside the rim of the pan without the bottom of the bowl touching the water. (Carefully pour off a little water, if necessary.) Place the bowl over the water and, when the chocolate is almost completely melted, turn off the heat and leave it to melt completely, stirring occasionally.

In the large bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle or beaters, or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld electric mixer, beat together the butter and confectioners’ sugar: Start on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, and then turn the speed to high and continue beating until the mixture is very fluffy and white, about 5 minutes, stopping the beaters or paddle as necessary to scrape down the sides of the bowl and under the beaters with a rubber spatula.

On medium speed, add the egg yolks one at a time, beating just until incorporated. Add the melted chocolate and mix well. On low speed, slowly pour in the sifted dry ingredients, again beating just until fully incorporated to form a soft, smooth dough. Do not overmix.

Remove the bowl from the mixer, or set the handheld beater aside. With clean hands, form small balls of dough about 1/2 ounce (15 g) each. Gently press your clean thumb into each ball, making a deep indentation in the center; then, place the balls on the prepared baking tray, placing them about 2 inches apart. Cover loosely and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or as long as overnight, to help set the indentations in the dough.

Before baking, position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350 F (175 C).

Bake the cookies for about 12 minutes, turning them back to front halfway through.

Gently slide the cookies on the parchment paper onto a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.

Once the cookies have cooled, use a small teaspoon or a piping bag with a wide tip to fill each indentation with a little raspberry jam.

(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 32, The Toms River Times, December 30, 2017

jerseyshoreonline.com