2018-11-03 - The Berkeley Times

Vol. 24 - No. 22

In This Week’s Edition

THE BERKELEY

TIMES

FOR BREAKING NEWS

JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM | November 3, 2018

Your FREE Weekly Hometown Newspaper For Bayville, Berkeley, Beachwood, Pine Beach, Ocean Gate and South Toms River

Sandy Wiped Out Small Homes, Big Ones Built In Their Place

Home Additions Would Be Taxable Community News!

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

Pages 12-15.

Letters Page 8-9.

Meet The Candidates Page 10.

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

By Patricia A. Miller BERKELEY - Usually there are plenty of places to sit at Berkeley Township Council meetings. That was not the case recently.

Seats and parking spaces were hard to find at the Oct. 22 meeting. Dozens of senior citizens packed the council room to protest additional tax assessments some had received after improvements were made to their homes.

Apparently what brought them there were robocalls announcing that their taxes were going to go up, specifically due to added assessment issues. Township officials later clarified that the change is going townwide, not just in the senior developments.

But the Oct. 22 meeting was a regular Township Council meeting, not a special meeting to discuss added assessments, Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr. and Township Administrator John Camera said.

Officials will hold two meetings in November, one in Holiday Heights and one (Additions - See Page 5)

Page 18.

Dear Pharmacist

Can You Eat Dark Chocolate With A Milk Allergy?

Page 19.

Inside The Law Page 21.

Business Directory Page 24-25.

Classifieds Page 23.

Wolfgang Puck Page 31.

South Toms River Has Choices For School Board, Council

By Chris Lundy SOUTH TOMS RIVER – While many candidates in neighboring towns are running unopposed, South Toms River has choices in both its Borough Council and their representative on the Toms River Board of Education.

For the school board, incumbent Gigi Esparza is being challenged by Anna Polozzo.

Both candidates were given the same set of questions. Their answers have been edited for narrative flow.

Gigi Esparza was elected to the board in 2012, and was re-elected in 2015.

“I’m an active member of Bethel Spanish Pentecostal Church, where I currently serve as the superintendent of the Sunday School (Council - See Page 4)

6

Y E AR S

SUPERSTORM

SANDY LA R TE

–Photo by Patricia A. Miller In the Good Luck Point section of Berkeley, large houses are built after Superstorm Sandy, completely changing the character of the neighborhood.

By Patricia A. Miller BERKELEY – The Good Luck Point section of Berkeley Township was once a tiny community of two- and three-bedroom ranches, modest older homes built on slabs that some

families had owned and loved for decades.

Many of them had no insurance when Superstorm Sandy hit.

Those smaller homes didn’t stand a chance on that dark day six years ago, when Superstorm

Sandy roared onto the Jersey Shore on Oct. 29, 2012 and took most of this small community that juts out into Barnegat Bay with it.

Good Luck Point looks a lot different today. The horizon is filled with

much larger homes up on pilings, homes which probably cost way more than the $150,000 RREM (Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Elevation, and Mitigation) grants eligible primary homeowners (Sandy - See Page 11)

Lawyer Jailed For 10 Years For Stealing From Elderly Clients

By Jennifer Peacock TOMS RIVER – He called the actions of the now-disgraced former attorney “heinous.” He “preyed upon the elderly, weak and infirm.”

Superior Court Judge Michael Collins described the actions of Robert Novy that way Oct. 26, before sentencing Novy to 10 years in prison for stealing millions from his elderly clients. Novy can appeal the sentence, part of his plea deal with the state.

He must serve more than three years before he can (Lawyer - See Page 6)

–Photo by Jennifer Peacock Robert Novy being led from the courtroom.

Free Transportation • In-Home & Outpatient PT Physical Therapy Center

1-(855)-3ALLCARE • www.AllCarePTC.com

Barnegat • Brick/Silverton • Brick/Ramtown Forked River • Freehold/Howell • Jackson • Manchester Toms River • Wall/Manasquan • Whiting

Come experience the All-Care difference for yourself!

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 2, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

10% OFF

FINANCING AVAILABLE

(All New Jobs Signed) • Special ENDS Nov. 30, 2018

10’ X 16’ Sunroom on Existing Deck or Slab REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

$16,783

$15,104

10’ X 10’ Kitchen Installed REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

$10,075

$9,067

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

SEE OUR WEBSITE

10 SilverLine by Andersen Replacement Windows w/ LoE & Argon REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

$4,704

$4,233 Installed

ThermaTru Smooth Star 3/0 x 6/8

$1,006 $905 Installed

REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

10’ X 14’ Screenroom on Existing Deck or Slab REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

$10,524

$9,471

5’ x 8’ Bathroom REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

$10,623

$9,560

Includes New Tub or Shower w/ Fiberglass Walls, Tile Floor, New Toilet & 30” Vanity & Top 5800 SilverLine Door LoE & Argon 6/0 x 6/8

10’ X 16’ REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

$5,916

$5,324

48” Platform with 1 STEP White or Black Aluminum White - Reg: $443 NOW: $398 Vinyl - Reg: $537 ONE SIDE ONLY. NOW: $483

$1,512 $1,360 Installed

REG. PRICE: NOW WITH 10% OFF:

We will NOT be undersold on comparable material & jobs! Check out our video on our website!

JEFFERS ALUMINUM & REMODELING

732-657-9000

2486 Ridgeway Blvd • Manchester, NJ 08759 www.jeffersaluminum.com

NJ Reg. No. 13VH06629600

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 3

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 4, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

Council:

Continued From Page 1 Department. There, I oversee and evaluate the needs of the education ministry,” she said.

She is a stay-at-home mom. She volunteers as a board member in the Ocean Inc. Head Start Program, and from 2015 to 2017, served as the Policy Council Chair.

“When I was first elected, there was so much that needed to be done,” she said.

“South Toms River Elementary School was badly neglected. The Ritacco administration didn’t care about us and it showed.”

She is speaking about the former superintendent, Michael Ritacco, who was arrested in 2010 for bribery and tax evasion.

“But now things are different, my three children - all of whom proudly attend STRE - and their friends are getting the education and support they deserve,” she said.

However, things are looking grim for the district overall.

“For the 2017-2018 school year, the state announced a revised funding plan that cost us $3.3 million. We worked hard, and we were able to get the full amount restored to us,” she said.

“This year, the state cut state aid again by $2.4 million. Furthermore, in the next couple of years we will be losing over $70 million,” she said. “Other board members and I are working with our superintendent and his administration to have this much needed state aid restored to us. As a result, in August we filed an aid emergency relief application with the New Jersey Depart-

ment of Education to regain the $2.4 million we lost. We are aggressively seeking the help of the public officials, parents, teachers and anyone affected by the revenue loss. We are vehemently looking for any avenue to ensure our kids, our teachers and community gets their fair share.”

At the most recent Board of Education meeting, the board unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the school district to join other districts in a lawsuit against the Department of Education.

“This is something that we have avoided up to date but now have been given little choice,” she said. “The lawsuit will have a district cost cap of $5,000 for the first phase and it will be a constitutional challenge regarding the distribution and calculation of state aid under the current funding formula.

“I have fought for South Toms River Elementary. We have fixed broken curbs and sidewalks. We replaced rusty doors and electrical boxes. We fixed the balconies that were in disrepair. We refurbished the library with new paint and replaced the thirty-yearold carpet with new tiles. We added a new learning community garden. We restored a sense of pride to our school and to our community. And it shows because STRE’s most recent test scores showed more academic improvement than any other elementary school in the district,” she said. “We are not done with our improvements. I support the ESIP (Energy Savings Improvement Program), which will permit us to make needed improvements in heating, lighting, and building infrastructure at no net cost to the taxpayer.

“I promised to be a strong voice for our schools, and I have kept my promise and I will continue to work hard and be a strong voice for all of South Toms River,” she concluded.

Anna Polozzo is running under the slogan “Children First.” She currently works at All American Deli in town, with family members.

She either has been, or is currently, a CCD teacher at Saint Barnabas, trustee of finance and coach at Beachwood Soccer Club, member of the South Toms River Recreation Commission, and has held various positions in the Beachwood Elementary PTO. She has never held elected office, but she is Mayor Oscar Cradle’s appointed liaison to the Toms River Regional Board of Education. In that role, she attends meetings and reports back to the town’s governing body about important issues.

She chose to run when she felt that South Toms River’s needs were not being met.

“South Toms River is a small town with a dwindling population of young people as well as a growing senior population,” she said. “Residents here tell me we must balance the needs of our children and the need to be fiscally responsible. South Toms River taxpayers are angry about what they consider to be misdirected and wasteful spending on political appointments and bloated administration. They are disappointed in the deteriorating state of our school buildings and a lack of high-quality programs for their children.”

High School South needs repairs and work to make it accessible to people with

disabilities, she said, so she supports the referendum that would make schools safe and comfortable.

“About 60 percent of South Toms River’s public school children are eligible for free or reduced lunch. Many of them come from single-parent homes and few of them have parents with a college education,” she said.

“It can be very hard for these children to excel or even keep up with their peers in school. Some families cannot afford the most basic school supplies and many do not have computers at home. In a school district that uses a curriculum that is heavily focused on technology, these children are at a huge disadvantage. I have been speaking on the record to the Board of Education and the administration about that disadvantage since 2016. I will continue to advocate for the district to enhance access to essential technology for our most vulnerable children through a device lending program.

Computers are truly basic school supplies at this time.

“New Jersey law requires computer science as part of the curriculum and coding will soon be required as well. It is in our best interest to make sure every child has adequate access to these devices both at home and at school. This access will allow children to gain the familiarity they require with these devices that is needed to improve student performance in the classroom and on state-mandated computerized standardized tests that the great majority of our South Toms River children have failed to master due to a lack of comfort and practice (Council - See Page 11)

MEMBER OF THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

Since 1979

609-607-0008

PORCHKING.NET NJ REG. #13VH07823600

SUN ROOMS • SCREENROOMS • CA R PORTS • DECKS

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 5

Additions:

Continued From Page 1 in Holiday City South, to specifically discuss the additional assessment issue, he mayor said.

The Holiday City South meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Nov. 8 in the clubhouse.

The Holiday Heights meeting will be held at 7 p.m. in Nov. 13 in the Holiday Heights clubhouse.

Township tax assessor Eric L. Zanetti will be at both meetings to speak with residents, the mayor said.

Additional assessments are new structures, or additions, or alterations of an old structure, completed after Jan. 1 and before Oct. 1, Zanetti said in an email to The Berkeley Times.

“If the value, when completed, is greater than the assessed value placed on the structure on Oct. 1 of the pretax years, an added assessment based on the difference must be made,” he said.

That applies to all properties where improvements were made, whether the improvements were made by a former owner or the current owner, he said.

“If the value when completed is greater than the assessed value of the previous year...an added assessment based on the difference must be made,” Zanetti said.

“The added assessment is pro-rated on the number of full months remaining in the tax year. This way, the property which becomes assessable after Oct. 1 does not avoid its fair share of the tax burden for the rest of the year.”

This would apply to 767 homes out of approximately 26,500 properties in the township, he said. About 350 of these are in the senior communities. Of these, only about 200 would be considered “substantial” improvements to the structure.

Township officials emphasized that they have no control over what the tax assessor does with any particular properties, since the tax assessor’s office is under the jurisdiction of the county.

Appeals are still an option for homeowners who are unhappy with their added assessments. The Township Council approved a plan at the Oct. 22 meeting to allow residents to pay their additional taxes via a payment plan.

“So you don’t have to pay that big chunk all at once,” the mayor said.

The tax assessor tries to keep home values as close to market values as possible.

Although some audience members demanded a revaluation of the township at the meeting, the county orders revaluations, not municipalities, Zanetti said.

There is no need for a revaluation in Berkeley, because the town’s properties are at about 94 percent of the fair market value, he said.

A revaluation is usually ordered when a town’s assessments are around 85 percent of that value for a consistent period of time.

“Our ratio is 94 percent, primarily because of the added assessment process,” Zanetti said. “It staves off a reval because picking up the value brings the next sale closer to market.”

Do additional assessments apply to people who recently purchased their properties and weren’t aware that any improvements had been made?

The answer is yes, Zanetti said.

“Caveat emptor, buyer beware,” he said.

“Buyers must do their own due diligence through the professionals they hire. They should all ask the right questions to the right people.”

The professionals include real estate agents, attorneys, title and mortgage companies, he said.

And if you think not taking out a permit will help you avoid an eventual added assessment, that is not the case, Zanetti said.

“The thought in this community is “don’t get a permit,” but not getting permits does not absolve you from the added assessment,” Zanetti said. “It only makes it difficult to police and will drive us to reval sooner. Aside from the law, there are far more reasons to get a permit than just to avoid an added assessment.”

Read The

BERKELEY TIMES on your...

DESKTOP SMARTPHONE

TABLET Powered by issuu.com!

PO Box 521 • 15 Union Ave. • Lakehurst, NJ 08733 Phone 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 e-mail: news@jerseyshoreonline.com jerseyshoreonline.com

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES President & Publisher Stewart Swann News Editor Chris Lundy

Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff

Assistant News Editor Kimberly Bosco

Production Manager Allison Gradzki

Staff Writer/Photographer Jennifer Peacock

Graphic Artist Adriana Starcic

Account Representatives Lorrie Toscano, Tom Lupo and Donna Harris

Layout Artist Maria Toensmann Distribution Manager Laura Hoban

Send your letters, copy and news tips to news@jerseyshoreonline.com OFFICE CLOSED: Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Published Weekly Copyright by Micromedia Publications, Inc. All material printed in The 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.

JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 6, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

Lawyer:

Continued From Page 1 be considered for parole.

Novy, back in July, admitted guilt to stealing millions from vulnerable elderly clients who entrusted him with their finances. In courtroom 16 in Ocean County, the public learned he stole and destroyed much more. And those family members feel that they bear the guilt.

They all wore yellow carnations to show solidarity.

“Why can my mother at age 89 and myself not have closure, not mourn our family like most do, not be a part of a service? Mr. Novy insists I am not family. I like this definition of family: ‘what defines family is not solely blood relation. Family consists of the people who support and love you, and the people you can confide in and trust.’ Mr. Novy is not family.

I never asked for what was in the will, I never expected it. My aunt borrowed a rare book from me and it would have been nice to have gotten that book back. It would have been nice to send her cousins some of the photographs they had taken,” Siobhan Hutchinson shared in a prepared statement she sent to Jersey Shore Online. She spoke briefly to the court that Friday, the only family member of a victim to speak. There were reportedly family members from two other victims in the courtroom.

“There was no closure, only a bag of guilt for seven years that I could not do more for them.”

From the age of 8, Hutchinson was raised by Lucas Ksayian, her mother’s husband, who was a father to her in every way but biologically she said. His brother and wife, Uncle Haig and Aunt Sunny, were actively involved in their lives. Although Hutchinson admitted their family hardly resembled that shown on “The Donna Reed Show,” and that Haig and Sunny were not the warm, loving types.

“The greatest gift they gave me was to be mentioned in their will. It was not the money, it was a clear acknowledgment that they saw me, they considered me family,” Hutchinson said. “It was $10,000 and, if they had given me less, I still would be grateful.”

Sunny and Haig lived private, modest lives.

When Hutchinson was working to get their affairs in order, she only then learned of their stock investments, her uncle’s two Alfa Romeos: they had a few million dollars, and specific wishes in their will, that their money be dispersed to some beloved organizations and charities upon their deaths.

Back in 2011, Sunny was sick and in and out

of the hospital and rehab. Haig, who shared a home with his wife in Forked River, at age 92 still drove up and down the Parkway to visit her at Community Medical Center.

Several years earlier, a banker at their local Wells Fargo had suggested the couple employ the services of attorney Robert Novy to get their affairs in order. They did.

Hutchinson had also introduced her aunt and uncle to a geriatric care manager who had helped her parents with their move to Florida.

The manager did meet with the couple and Hutchinson to get their affairs in order, and did request a meeting with Novy. Hutchinson said they never heard back from the attorney.

That July, the manager set up a cleaning service for Haig and Sunny’s home, as well as a home health company for in-house support.

However, before the month was out, Haig changed his mind, that he didn’t want any help in his home, Hutchinson said. He dismissed the care manager as well.

“I realized my uncle was still able to make his own choices, he understood the situation, and probably had a mixture of old-world stubbornness and fear of the loss of control. I withdrew and decided to let things cool down,” Hutchinson said. “Perhaps, I let too much time pass.”

She attempted to speak with her uncle in October at his home. Not getting in touch with him, she called the last known rehabilitation center her aunt was at, and was curtly told no information could be given and to contact their attorney.

Robert Novy.

They finally spoke on Nov. 14. Her aunt, she was told, was in poor health.

Her uncle was dead. He died two days earlier.

Novy told her that Haig had said she was not family, and did not wish to see her. Did her aunt knew her husband was dead? No. Can I accompany you to tell her? No. Hutchinson said she would sign over whatever she was entitled to from her aunt and uncle’s property. She just wanted answers, wanted to make sure her aunt was okay. No. Hutchinson knew her aunt and uncle had a home in Waretown. She drove there and knocked on the door, and had a health aide slam the door in her face, before opening it again and throwing a cell phone at her. On the line was a woman from Novy’s office, yelling at Hutchinson that she was trespassing and that the Ocean Township Police were being called.

She said Novy told her he was going to have her banned from entering the 55+ gated adult community.

Credit Issues?

WE CAN HELP! ▪ Credit Repair ▪ Debt Negotiation ▪ Credit Consultation

Call 1-800-684-4623

The care manager, in the meantime, reportedly received an angry letter from Novy’s office, accusing her and Hutchinson of “ransacking” Haig and Sunny’s home, and abandoning them.

Hutchinson’s father died shortly thereafter, and she brought her mother back to New Jersey to live with her. Family could not get in touch with Sunny at all.

Sunny died two years later. “…And as far as I know she died alone, with probably only a home health aide by her side or perhaps at a hospital. I don’t know. I did not know until just recently where they are interred. There was no service for either one of them that I know of,” Hutchinson said. “What kind of society are we that something like this could happen and does happen frequently?”

Novy, 67, of Brick, was a prominent Ocean County attorney who hosted his own radio show geared toward helping seniors. He taught seminars on elder law.

He stole millions of dollars from those the public and clients thought he was helping.

The victims that the state is aware of mostly had no close family, and in some cases, were in poor health, like those suffering from dementia.

He had an ethics complaint slapped against him in January 2016 after being investigated by the New Jersey Office of Attorney Ethics. He was arrested that October after an investigation by the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Computer Crimes Bureau, assisted by the New Jersey Division of Taxation Office of Criminal Investigation.

The State found that Novy, in some cases, would simply transfer clients’ money into his own bank account. Other times, he transferred that money and liquidated assets into Interest on Lawyer Trust Account subaccounts he controlled. Other times, he transferred money from those accounts into his firm’s operating and disbursement accounts.

He operated a legal firm in Manchester.

“The investigation revealed that Novy stole funds from elderly and deceased clients who often did not have a close relative to claim their estate or challenge Novy’s actions. He used the stolen funds for his own benefit, paying personal and business expenses. Novy gained control through wills, powers of attorney, and trust documents, making himself the sole financial decision-maker for the clients. When clients had sizeable assets in the form of an annuity or life insurance policy, Novy directed insurance companies to redeem the policies and send the money directly to him,” New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal said back in July.

“In some cases, when challenged by trustees or relatives about particular funds that had been withdrawn from client accounts, Novy claimed they were “administrative errors” and repaid the funds.”

“This crime was not due to an ‘accidental oversight,’ a typo, a miscalculation on the part of Mr. Novy,” Hutchinson said. “He specifically targeted wealthy seniors with little to no family, who could not protect themselves from his thievery and deceit.”

Novy pleaded guilty in July to first-degree money laundering, admitting he stole millions from his law clients. The state’s investigation found about $3 million stolen from at least two dozen victims.

He has to pay $4 million - $3 million for known victims and $1 million for anyone who may come forward in the next two years - in

restitution to the victims, surrender his law license and pay $500,000 to the state for its anti-money laundering profiteering penalty.

Novy’s attorneys said they feel it is excessive but have no complaint, and those obligations have been paid in full.

The state, in July, said it would seek a 10-year prison term for Novy, including a three-year, four-month parole ineligibility. Hutchinson asked Collins for a much stiffer penalty.

“Your point on victimizing the elderly was not lost on me,” Collins told the room after Hutchinson had spoken.

“I have known Bob Novy for 20 years...I have known him to be nothing but ethical, moral,” said Charles Bowman, a financial planner who worked with Novy. He worked on New Jersey Bar Association’s fee arbitration committee, and never once saw Novy’s name come up.

In addition to Bowman speaking, Collins had received written statements from family, friends and doctors on behalf of Novy. His attorney, Gerald Krovatin, asked that the court also think of the impact on Novy: he lost his law practice, his livelihood, and the time lost during this sentence. He’ll be in his 70s when he’s out, and unlikely to be able to start afresh.

“He has lost his name and good standing in this community,” Krovatin said. “It’s gone, as a result of this criminal case.” In fact, his attorneys painted him as a champion of senior care - their homes were maintained or upgraded. No one was evicted from their home. They had medical care. All of this in cases where families couldn’t - or wouldn’t - step in.

Novy spoke briefly to the court. He said he stood before the court a broken man. He did admit to overcharging clients. But he refuted that he prevented anyone from seeing any of his clients. Families would try to interfere with services signed for by his clients, he protected his clients from that interference, he said.

“I’ve attempted to serve the community for 42 years. I served in New Jersey for many years before that. I say with all sincerity, honor, I did not intend to harm anyone,” Novy said. He apologized to his colleagues and friends and families, and especially to his wife, Catherine Cirigliano Novy.

“You don’t need to apologize to me Bob,” his wife said from the front row in the audience.

“I wanted to find a reason. I think I was hoping for a substance abuse problem, an issue of alcoholism or drug addiction, and to place the blame on that. Then I hoped to find something like an addiction to gambling. But I couldn’t find anything in report,” Collins said. “...What occurred to me was, it was nothing other than greed. Naked and unadulterated greed.”

“My aunt was denied family and friends’ comfort in her last years and visitation from people she was close to. My mother and I were denied the knowledge of whether she was okay. I never got to help them settle in their transition and anyone who has gone through this with family, understands how difficult it is for seniors to face change, to move to an unfamiliar setting with people they don’t know.

We never got to say good-bye to either of them.

We don’t have closure, only questions with no answers,” Hutchinson said. She wants her aunt and uncle’s wishes, spelled in out in their will, carried out.

“I love you Bob. The truth will come out eventually,” Catherine Cirigliano Novy said as her husband was led out of the courtroom in handcuffs.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 7

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 8, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY Letters To The Editor Smith Doesn’t Even Live In NJ Congressional representatives must have their finger on the pulse of the district they serve, even if they reside in areas physically distant from their district.

It is nothing short of imperative that representatives know their constituents’ issues, hear their concerns, and engage in meaningful dialogue with those they represent.

Chris Smith is the representative for the 4th Congressional District of NJ. He lives in Virginia, but maintains a small apartment in NJ. Unfortunately, Chris Smith has been comfortably absent from his home district. In fact, many years he spent fewer than 30 nights in NJ. Hardly enough time to hear his diverse constituents clearly, I’d say!

It’s customary for politicians to participate in town hall meetings during an election season. It’s a critical for um for hearing each candidates’ viewpoints and issues in some detail. Chris Smith refuses to attend or participate in public debates, forums, or town hall meetings. This is in stark contrast with Josh Welle who has crisscrossed the district, shared his viewpoints, listened to constituents’ concerns, and familiarized himself with the diverse population he represents.

It’s time to elect a represen-

tative who’s not a phantom presence. I want a representative I can see and hear, one who hears me. Our representatives are not entitled to our vote. They need to earn it. On November 6th I will vote for Josh Welle. I hope you will, too.

Aliza Greenblatt Ocean Grove

Kim Seems Clueless On Health Care I attended an event for seniors hosted by congressional candidate Andy Kim at the Ocean County Library.

I was beyond disappointed in the event and Mr. Kim’s presentation. When Mr. Kim spoke, I did not see a candidate well-informed on senior issues. What I did see is a person seriously lacking basic knowledge on how Medicare and Social Security function.

Andy Kim could not answer the simplest questions regarding healthcare for seniors and he kept looking to his “special guest” for answers. His special guest was a political spokesman from Los Angeles, CA, who interrupted questions and barely let Mr. Kim speak. It seems that Andy Kim is just going through the motions trying to get the senior vote, while running nasty, untrue attack ads about Congressman MacArthur.

In stark contrast, Tom MacArthur has done in-

W� W������ L������ T� T�� E�����!

The Berkeley 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.

credible work for seniors.

His office is well-known for helping constituents.

They returned almost $5 million from the Social Security Administration due to seniors in Ocean and Burlington counties. He was named a “Champion of Medicare” by the Coalition for Medicare Choices.

MacArthur helped bring millions of dollars to Deborah Heart and Lung Center every year, which will literally save lives. And most importantly, Congressman MacArthur is here. He’s accessible to us – he visits our communities and our picnics - and not just during election season.

Congressman MacArthur has a proven track record for seniors and I hope he gets re-elected this November!

Gary Ristaino Berkeley

Smith Ignores Those Who Are Not Like Him The day after Donald Trump was inaugurated as president, I joined with millions of people and walked in the Women’s March to protest his demeaning attitude toward women, exemplified by his infamous “p----” remarks. My congressman, Chris Smith had not spoken out to defend me and all the women in his constituency, so I walked to make myself heard.

When Trump withdrew the US from the Paris Climate Accord, my congressman, Chris Smith supported this action in a partisan way, saying that he agreed with the withdrawal, calling the Accord “all-pain, no-gain.”

I believe that the environment needs our most urgent attention, so I walked in the Climate March to express my concern, since my congressman would not support the wishes of his constituency.

When the Trump administration decided to put a ban on travelers to our country based on their religion, Smith, a tireless supporter

Letters To The Editor of refugee rights, should er son Kevin is scheduled those refugees be Christian, called the Muslim travel ban a “necessarily enhanced vetting process.” I walked to oppose the Muslim ban.

It’s time for citizens of the 4th Congressional district to keep walking. I am going to walk to the polls on Election Day and vote for Josh Welle.

Join me and make it a successful march!

Lorraine Tosiello, MD Bradley Beach

Teacher Makes Case For Manchester Board Of Ed. My name is Bryan Jenner and I am proud to be a candidate for the Manchester Township Board of Education. I have been in education all of my life, both as a student and as an educator.

I received my Bachelor of Music Education degree from the Crane School of Music, State University of New York at Potsdam in 1985. I received my Master of Education degree, with a concentration in Curriculum Development in 2013 from Monmouth University.

I started teaching in 1985 on Long Island and came to New Jersey to teach in February of 1989. I taught until June of 2017 when I retired as an elementary music teacher with the South Amboy Public Schools. In 2009, I became the Director of Pep Band and Instrumental Ensembles at Monmouth University and an adjunct professor within the music and theatre arts department.

In 2017, I transferred to the School of Education to become a Clinical Faculty Supervisor in Music Education where I now supervise clinical practice students, formerly called student teachers, throughout the state of New Jersey for Monmouth University.

I moved to Manchester in 2003 and my oldest son Christopher is a 2010 graduate of Manchester Township High School. My young-

to graduate in 2020 from MTHS. One of the most important things in the life of any community is its schools. We in Manchester need to provide the very best educational programs for our children.

We need to provide a safe and secure learning environment and we need to prepare our students for a life in the 21st century whereupon they are creative, innovative, critical thinkers and can work collaboratively in the exploration of their curiosity. We must be fiscally responsible by adhering to the most efficient, yet thorough budget and we must explore alternative financing solutions so as to not over burden our residents with exorbitant school taxes and petition the State of New Jersey to explore and re-evaluate the current school funding formula as it relates to state aid. We should continue to explore the opportunity to share additional resources with our neighbors and we should support our educators who are entrusted with instructing the children of our community.

While every candidate wants what is best for our school district, I feel you should look at the people who will best represent the interests of our district and township over the next three years and those that have the experience in the area of education and educational programs. Should I be elected, I look forward to becoming an active participant as a member of the Board of Education and making sure that we afford our students every opportunity to succeed and support our educators who are tasked to work with and mold the minds of our most precious commodities, our children. I hope to have Manchester be the model that other districts aspire towards in providing the best education available, while also being fiscally responsible to our community and its citizens. Thank you.

Bryan H. Jenner Manchester

Republicans Have Enhanced Howell’s Way Of Life

I have been a volunteer municipal official in Howell for half a century. I have seen Howell grow from a population of 5,000 to 50,000. I have been appointed to boards and commissions by both parties.

It is my opinion that the Republican Party has over the years succeeded in pursuing the zoning that has kept the Lakewood style housing from expanding into Howell. Republicans have preserved over 900 acres of open space though farmland preservation. In the area adjacent to Lakewood there has been virtually no development. The Republican Party under past leadership of John Costigan was instrumental in keeping the “Rural character of Howell” Our roads are the best maintained in the county.

We have, through the leadership of Robert Walsh, the fi nest and most beautiful municipal building in the county and perhaps the state. Republican leadership gave us the recreation at Soldiers Field. Our shade tree commission, Environmental Commission, Boards of Adjustment and Planning Board are made up of the fi nest and most ethical volunteers in the country.

Any developments that have been built for Affordable Housing was mandatory by the State of NJ and not the Howell Republicans.

We have a police Department that makes us one of the safest towns in the nation. Our Senior program is the best in the county.

No municipal government is perfect.

Why change good government when it is not broken?

Please don’t play into the prejudice that the Republican Par ty is planning “Lakewood style development.” It is simply not true.

(Letters - See Page 9)

jerseyshoreonline.com

Letters:

Continued From Page 8

If you are happy with the Howell community that you live in and your quality of life then you should vote Republican.

Paul Schneider R.Ph. Howell

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 9 obstruct Democrats are all about.

Michael Hale Bayville Editor’s note: The PolitiFact article did not mention Kim, but was in reference to other Democrats.

Debunking Kim’s Claims

Watch School Taxes, And State Aid

A recent debate between Congressman Tom MacArthur and Democrat challenger Andy Kim had two main takeaways for me.

The first was the question of Mr. Kim’s spin on his positions in both the Bush and Obama administrations.

Without questioning his service to the country, the Washington Post awarded Kim two “Pinocchios” for, in their evaluation, “stretching his resume to elastic extremes by claiming he was a national security officer for a Republican president,” and “seems like a classic example of resume puffery.” Mr. Kim is obviously an intelligent man, but stretching the facts about his background was foolish on his part.

The second takeaway was his relying on the Democrat playbook strategy of trying to frighten senior voters concerning Congressman MacArthur’s role in attempting to fix Obamacare.

PolitiFact, a noted fact checker on candidates, stated in a recent fact check article that Kim’s and other Democrats claims “mimics attacks we’ve seen against Republicans, omitting the caveats: This provision (the so called age tax) applied to people buying insurance on the individual and smallgroup markets. It did not apply to seniors on Medicare, or people 50 and older with coverage sponsored by large employers. Current law (Obamacare) allows insurers to charge older adults three times what they charge younger adults.”

(PolitiFact author Miriam Valverde, 9/19/2018) In both Kim’s and his supporting group’s campaign f lyers and phone calls, pitching distortions to frighten seniors about Medicare is both unconscionable and just dead wrong.

This is what the resist and

Lacey taxpayers need to take an interest in what goes on in Trenton because of its direct effect on our local school budget. A serious meeting with the Governor is in order. If you think the school budget is tight now, just wait for the rest of Phil Murphy’s anticipated reductions in State School Aid. Now here’s the math of it all….. The 2018-2019 Lacey School budget started out in May at $76.6 million. Then Gov. Phil asked for $583K to be returned - leaving the District with $76.1. Since the health benefit costs did not rise the full amount budgeted, the district was able to chop the $583K directly out of the Employee Benefit line item leaving the remainder of the current budget intact. However, that Band-Aid can not be reused again when next year’s cuts come down from Uncle Phil’s office.

Approximately $30 million dollars is for salaries - leaving $46 million.

Next, the line item for benefits is $18 million, now the budget is left with approximately $26 million dollars.

There is a line item called unallocated employee benefits - this is the money set aside for all unused sick and vacation pay - which shows on page 99 of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report - and that number is $17.8 million. Subtract this figure and the Lacey School District is now left operating seven buildings for 4,100 students with just about $8 million dollars - $3.7 million of which is earmarked for debt (a four letter word that is killing the District). Debt for a solar project that the taxpayers, staff and the students are suffering over for another 10 years. The project has never paid for itself as the referendum promised and is constantly being supple-

mented with tax funds never meant for the bond.

I would be happy to sit down with anyone that wants to dive deep into the school budget.

Please remember your civic duty and vote on Tuesday Nov. 6th. Let me be your taxpayer voice on the School Board.

Regina Discenza Former Member, Lacey Board of Education, 2015-2017

MacArthur’s Stance On Abortion Earns A Vote I would like to show support for Tom Macarthur in the upcoming mid term election.

While there has been controversy on both sides, and neither candidate has been squeaky clean, there is a good reason to support MacArthur on an important issue that many Republicans and social conservatives feel important.

That issue is pro-life.

The pro-life issue has been vilified and despised by the radical left and now the Democrat party that has adopted that same stance. Tom Macarthur has loyally stood by that movement and been a staunch supporter of life, including the “pain-capable act” that protects infants from late term abortions.

This one issue alone is key because his opponent, Andy Kim, is running on a prochoice platform that needs to be defeated.

Hopefully, with thought and reflection, you will recognize that the life candidate deserves your support on November 6. Vote your conscience when thinking about so many future lives that have no say in their future. There is no real “choice” in the prochoice movement. Certainly not for the innocent victims.

Frank Coluccio Toms River

MacArthur No Friend Of Middle Class Congressman MacArthur is fond of sprinkling his public information notices with phrases like “middle class” and “working families”, suggesting that the voters of these groups are

his special and sole concern.

The record, however, indicates otherwise.

He authored a bill in Congress to strip people with pre-existing conditions of their health insurance coverage. He was also the sole New Jersey congressman to vote in favor of Trump’s ruinous tax bill which lines the coffers of the wealthy and of the corporations.

MacArthur also supported the “age tax” which increased the tax burdens of our senior citizens.

AARP has closely examined MacArthur’s voting record and finds him to be no friend of the middle class.

Michael J. Doherty Berkeley

Menendez, Welle The Heroes We Need Superman, the fictional superhero, fi rst appeared in a comic book in 1938.

The story has been through many revisions from comic books, radio, television to film adaptations and video games. It’s interesting the emergence of the character was in the prewar era and the post war show came into our home with our first television.

Super ma n’s reassu r i ng platform: “The never ending fight for Truth, Justice, and the American way” speaks to the safety net and framework of our society.

I remember that mindset was of service to us then.

I have seen heroes come and go. Now I understand that concept is too heavy for one individual.

Have we lost our vision of the American way? The security and unity that was realized in my early years seems to be continually slippi ng away. Histor y tells us that our country has had periods of division. We are living in one of those times. Some of us are feeling we are on easy street, others live in fear of the future. Who will come to our rescue? Who are our next leaders? As I hear myself say that out loud, it sounds childish!

When I look around to the events of the day, I see the changes in broad daylight.

Our democracy is fragile and resilient. Our leaders are only as good as our voice. The midterm election is fast approaching.

Who will deliver my voice in Washington?

Josh Welle is challenging Chris Smith’s seat in Congress. Welle’s platform and commitment is to be of public service for all NJ citizens. I have had the pleasure of meeting and expressing my concerns to Josh, unlike Chris Smith, who only attends unannounced private functions.

In the senate, Bob Hugin is seeking to unseat Bob Menendez. Hugin’s recent TV ads Claim, according

to FBI Affidavit exhibit 18, Menendez was involved with underage prostitutes.

A Google search shows that the women said they were never paid for sexual favors but were paid to make false statement.

Quinnipiac and FDU polls show that women support Menendez vs Hugin, as well as non-whites and an even split among white men. In the past I have asked women Trump supporters, how can they continue to trust a man who has derogatory behavior towards women and immigrants? Their response was that they agree with his policies. I ask those who agree with the policies and record Menendez has stood for in the senate to continue to support him.

Any time I call Menendez’ office, his positions always aligns with my interests and concerns. I am doubtful of what Hugin’s positions would be based his record from the past at Princeton when he was in opposition of women and non-discrimination on campus.

Josh Welle may be young and Bob Menendez may have fallen from grace, however, I trust they will represent me in Washington. I choose to use my own Superpower and Vote for them on election day.

Roseann Petropoulos Wall

IRIS FRECKLES

Small dark spots resembling freckles that appear in the iris of the eye are called “iris ephelis.” They occur in approximately 60 percent of individuals and are caused by increased amounts of the pigment “melanin,” which is produced by cells called “melanocytes.” Iris ephelis neither affect vision nor develop into malignant melanoma.

Their development, however, is linked to factors that include a lifetime number of sunburns, history of eye sunburns that cause blisters, sun-damaged skin, increasing age, and light-colored eyes. The spots have been found to be more common in the lower part of the iris that is farthest from the nose because that area is afforded less protection from the sun by shade cast from the nose or eyebrows.

Your literal view of the world can change as you get older, especially if you develop one of the eye diseases associated with aging. That’s why the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a baseline eye exam in middle age and exams with increasing frequency as you get older. To schedule an eye exam, please call SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES, P.A. (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

www.oceancountyeye.com

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020

P.S. “Iris nevi,” dark spots on the iris that are larger than iris freckles and grow larger with time, infiltrate the “stroma” (a layer of the iris) and are due to an increase in the number of melanocytes.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 10, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

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

MacArthur, Kim Compete For 3rd District Congressional Seat

The Republican and Democrat candidates for the 3rd Congressional District were asked to write a statement to voters about why they are the best choice.

Their statements are presented here, with minor editing to remove negative attacks on their opponents.

It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to represent Burlington and Ocean Counties in Congress since 2015. The nonpartisan Lugar Center recently named me among the most moderate and bipartisan members of Congress, because I work against Washington dysfunction and stand up for Burlington and Ocean Counties to achieve real results that help our community.

I believe that I have lived the American Dream. After college I fell in love with my f irst job as an insurance adjuster making $13,000 per year. I worked my way up to eventually become the leader of a compa ny t hat ha d 10 0

employees in two offices. I grew that company to have thousands of employees and 10 0 off ices, while raisi ng t h ree ch ild ren, with the love of my life Debbie. I have always brought people together towards a common good in my personal life, professional life, and through charitable efforts around the globe.

The three pillars of my l ife have be e n fa m ily, faith, and service to others. I learned at a young age that I was fortunate to have a loving family and we always worked to give back to our community. I have done my best to live my life in that same sense, especially during my time in Congress.

I am always focused on ways to grow our economy and we have seen i ncredible results with low unemployment, wages increasing, small business confidence at record highs. As co-chair of the Bipar tisan Heroin Task Force in Congress, I have been a leader in helping to bring more resources to help law enforcement prevent the flow of drugs and guns in our commun it y, wh ile a dvocat i ng for those suffering from addiction. I will also continue to focus on securing the future of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, which is on target to receive new planes and construction, thanks to bipartisan efforts I have led in

Congress. This is great for our national security and our local economy.

My mom passed when I was four years old and I watched my dad work three jobs my whole life to pay off her medical expenses. The mother who raised me was a liberal Democrat and my father was a conservative Republican. We talked politics and religion around the dinner table every night, but we disagreed without being disagreeable. I have seen people in both parties launch personal attacks that are simply unacceptable. Our district has the rare distinction of voting for Barack Obama in 2012 and Donald Trump in 2016. That means for every

Tom MacArthur person who disagrees with job is to represent them me on an issue, there is both to the best of my someone else who agrees ability, and that’s what I with me completely. My will continue to do.

I’m running in the New Jer sey T h i rd Cong ressional Dist r ict because the people here deserve a Representative who will work for them. This is where I was raised and where I’m raising my two baby boys, just a few miles f rom where I g rew up.

The public school education I got here encouraged me to dedicate my life to serving our country as a national security official and diplomat. I worked as a Strategic Advisor to Generals Petraeus and Allen in Afghanistan, and worked at the Pentagon and the White House. I served under both Republicans and Democrats, and that com-

mitment to bipartisanship drives me again towards public service.

If I’m fortunate enough to represent this community, I will be focused on lowering health care costs for all Americans. I will start by protecting people with pre-existing conditions and lower ing the high cost of prescription drugs. Congress can and should start taking action in a bipartisan way to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices - a step that President Trump supported when he was a candidate. I’ve met thousands of people across Ocean and Burlington counties who have shared with me

their heartbreaking stories about health care. To them, it’s personal too.

I also want to prioritize ways to strengthen our local economy. That starts with protecting and supporting Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, the largest employer in the district. I hope to carry on the t radition set by Congressman Jim Saxton of suppor ti ng veterans and serving on the House Committee on Armed Services to be a staunch advocate for the base and those who live and work there.

Our community is where tens of thousands of seniors choose to retire, and I want to do everything I can

to help them retire with peace of mind. My mother retired last year, and she is now dependent on Social Security and Medicare.

She has multiple pre-existing conditions and is scared because of the dysfunction in Washington.

Protecting Social Security and Medicare is a top priority and we must keep the promise of dignified retirement to Americans of all generations.

This community gave me and my family every opportunity. I love New Jersey and I feel blessed to have grown up here.

Now I want to serve the community that raised me and be a representative in

Andy Kim Congress that will lead always focused on what is with integrity and honor, best for this community.

Get Out And Vote!

November 6, 2018

jerseyshoreonline.com

Council:

Continued From Page 4 with the technology. In an effort to save money, since the state refuses to fund its mandates, we should be allowing children who own their own devices to use them in school.

This will enable the district to purchase fewer devices each year,” she said.

“I will also continue to make sure that the district does not lose track of the issues that many adults think are small but can be so very important in a child’s day and have a huge impact on their ability to learn,” she said.

“For example, for a while, the district stopped serving lunch at the intermediate level on shortened days. I and other concerned parents worked together to help the district find a way to fit lunch into the shortened school day so children who rely on free and reduced meals do not go hungry.”

She vowed that transparency is important to her, and that she would be available to the community and will share non-confidential information with staff, parents, and taxpayers.

She would fight Trenton on the reduction in school aid that the district is getting.

Sandy:

Continued From Page 1 received to rebuild after the storm.

The new houses dwarf the few remaining older homes, most of which are mold bombs waiting to be torn down or sold just for the lots. The old Good Luck Point has almost disappeared. The gentrification of the one of the lowest-lying areas in the township is almost complete.

There’s still an original home at the end of Good Luck Drive that is elevated, but unfinished. It was owned by Linda and Howard Baigus at the time of the storm. They vowed to come back then. An almost cheery Linda Baigus greeted a reporter a few weeks after the storm.

“Want to see my living room?” she asked.

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 11 “Parents…are very concerned about the potential reduction of sports and other extracurricular activities due to state funding cuts,” she said. “All of our residents are concerned about the tax impact. I will continue to advocate for fair school funding for our little town and our entire district on the local and state levels to help keep these programs.

In the unfortunate situation where cuts are necessary, I will endeavor to work with the BOE and administration make sure that we cut non-essential, non-instructional staff before we make any cuts that will affect a child.”

Mayor and Council There is also a race for the mayor and council in South Toms River Council President Sandford Ross, Jr. and Councilman Gregory Handshy are running for mayor, which is a four-year term. Current Mayor Oscar Cradle is not running for re-election.

There are two, three-year terms on the Borough Council on the ballot. Councilman Thomas Rolzhausen and William Gleason are the Republican choices. Samuel Fennell and Robert Taylor are the Democrats.

There was no living room. The fireplace was all that was left. The vicious three-foot storm surge took the roof and the walls and their two-story garage.

It doesn’t look like anyone lives in their home now or whether the couple still owns the house.

If they still do, hopefully they will eventually be able to come back.

Much of the nearby Glen Cove section looks the same, with homes already elevated or homes in the process of being lifted, sold or demolished.

Sandy put a big dent on Berkeley Township’s ratables. In 2011, the ratable base was $5,140,748,300. In 2018, the ratable base was $5,136,193,690, still $4,554,610 than before the storm, Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr. said.

Would Good Luck Point survive another Sandy? Let’s hope we never find out.

Awesome Autumn Fun

BERKELEY – Awesome Autumn Fun will be held on November 3 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Jakes Branch County Park in Beachwood.

This annual free event is very kid friendly.

There will be Hayrides, Games, Snacks, Apple Cider, Pumpkin Painting and the Great Hay Maze and more. Come celebrate autumn...it’s awesome and fun!

PROPAN E

WINTER HOURS:

Tues-Sat 8:30am-5:30pm

CLOSED: Sunday & Monday 200 Ocean Gate Ave. Ocean Gate, NJ 08740 732.269.9856 www.jerseyshoreautorepair.com

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 12, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

I&G Farms is all about the

Holidays Please excuse our appearance as we prepare for the holiday season

COMING SOON...

• Beautifully Decorated Cemetery Blankets & Wreaths Created by I&G Designers • Fraser Fir Christmas Trees • Poinsettias • Holiday Décor

Buy Direct From Your Local Grower & Save!

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

The Arc Raises $35,000 At The 18th Annual Step Up For The Arc Walk

Grown In Our Greenhouses!

Will be OPEN DAILY from 9am-5pm!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK • IG FARMS Family Run For Over 33 Years!

COMMUNITY NEWS

150 Whitesville Rd (Rt 527) Jackson, NJ 08527 • 732-364-0308

–Photo courtesy The Arc LAKEWOOD – The Arc, Ocean County Chapter surpassed their goal and raised over $35,000 at the 18th Annual Step Up for The Arc Walk and Family Fun Day on Saturday, October 13 at FirstEnergy Park, home of the Lakewood BlueClaws.

Participants walked the 1-mile concourse to raise awareness and funds for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Ocean County who participate in The Arc’s residential, vocational and recreation programs.

“This year’s Walk was our biggest celebration yet,” said Laura Williams, Executive Director at The Arc, Ocean County Chapter. “Bringing together our residents, program participants, and the community is what we strive for every day.”

Attendees enjoyed entertainment from the WRAT and WJRZ, live band King of Kings, Montage Music, crafts, games and prizes, face painting, tattoos, yoga, and appearances by Buster, Star Wars 501st Legion, and Wonder Woman and Ariel from Princess Party Productions.

Local businesses showed their support with in-kind refreshment donations from Wegmans, ShopRite, Stop and Shop, Costco, Herr’s, Bimbo Bakeries, Entenmann’s, Starbucks, Bubbakoos, Jersey Mike’s, Atlanta Bread, Watchung Spring, Manhattan Bagel, and Chick-fil-A. Thanks to the event sponsors, every dollar raised by our donors will directly benefit the programs and clients served. Sponsors include: Corporate Synergies, Advance Auto Parts, Georgian Court University, Manasquan Bank, FirstEnergy & JCPL, Medicine to Go, Universal Janitorial Supply Corp., A General Sewer & Plumbing, NJNG, Gallagher, Aquatherm Industries, Kelaher, Van Dyke & Moriarty, Central Ocean Rotary, OceanFirst Foundation, Causeway Family of Dealerships, Quaker Steak & Lube, Lakewood BlueClaws, Roofing Master, Ron Rosetto Realty Group, Silverton Funeral Home, Perlmutter Family ShopRites, and Cedar Management.

For more information about The Arc, Ocean County Chapter visit arcocean.org.

Free Rabies Clinic

BERKELEY – A free rabies clinic will be held on Saturday, November 17, from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Bayville First Aid Squad Building, on the corner of Route 9 and Station Roads in Bayville. Please bring proof of prior rabies

vaccination for a three-year vaccination. If no proof is provided, a one-year vaccination certificate will be issued. All dogs and cats will be vaccinated. Licenses will not be issued.

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

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

Sunday Worship Services of Holy Communion at 10 a.m. &Wednesday spoken Holy Communion at 9 a.m.

Christ Lutheran Church The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759 Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343 E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 13

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

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

–Photo courtesy BTSD BERKELEY – On October 19, Clara B. Worth Kindergarten students from Mrs. Snyder’s class learned about trees at the Forest Resource Education Center in Jackson.

Dental Problems Today...

Healthy Teeth Tomorrow!

Berkeley Township Now Hiring

BERKELEY – We’re hiring in Berkeley Township! Our Recreation Department is currently taking applications for part-time employment opportunities.

Positions include: • After School Counselors. Must be available to work 1:30 p.m.- 5 p.m.

• Bus Drivers. Must have CDL license Check out our Employment page at BTREC. org for details and download an application today. For questions, please call the Rec Dept. at 732-269-4456.

Beautiful State-Of-The-Art Practice With Digital Images & Digital CT Machine All Phases of General Dentistry & Implants

National Bus Safety Week

BERKELEY – All four schools in Berkeley Township School District observed National Bus Safety Week from October 15 to 19, 2018.

Letters, posters and banners from our students were displayed at an appreciation breakfast for our transportation staff. Our district promotes bus safety this week and all weeks of the school year.

MAIN STREET AUTO REPAIR Serving Toms River For 30 Years

NJ State Inspection· No Lines No Waiting· Try Us!

COME SEE OUR NEW ASPHALT

732-244-1557

DOWNTOWN TOMS RIVER 305 MAIN STREET

The Experts In Implant Dentistry!

Jamie Oshidar, DMD • Ingy Alhelawe, DMD • Raymond Pacholec, DMD

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL!

$ Comprehensive Exam, INCLUDES:

79

Panoramic, BW’s ($275 value) & Prophylaxis (Cleaning) $99 New Patient Special with CT Scan if applicable ($600 value)

SPECIAL $ 500 OFF IMPLANTS

848.480.0968 800 Atlantic City Blvd. Ste 1 • Bayville, NJ www.BayvilleDentalArts.com Participating with all Major Dental PPO Insurances In-House Discount Plan Care Credit • Wells Fargo Financing

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES

DIRECT CREMATION $1275

Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Place Of Death, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory

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

BTES Goes Pink

LOCATED AT:

DEGRAFF LAKEHURST FUNERAL HOME 119 UNION AVENUE, LAKEHURST

732-657-7868

SHERRY T. DEGRAFF NJ LIC NO 3921

WWW.DEGRAFFFUNERALHOME.COM

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certified Copies Of Death Certificates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

Il Giardinello Ristorante

Serving Ocean County for 22 years

Stella Towne Center • 1232 Route 166 • Toms River

732-286-9111

OPEN 7 DAYS BLunch ServedNOW O Y Mon.-Fri. • Dinner Served Mon.-Sun. B With Coupon

FREE ENTREE

Buy 1 Lunch or Dinner at Reg. Menu Price & Receive a 2nd Lunch or Dinner

FREE

Maximum Value $13 Not Valid On Saturday (Must be of Equal or Lesser Value) One coupon per couple. Limit 3 coupons per table. Must be present for discount. May not be combined with any other offer. Not valid on holidays. Not valid on Deliveries.

(Valid for Lunch & Dinner) BT

Serving Lunch & Dinner Come Experience our Award-Winning Italian Cuisine!

Catering For All Occasions!

CATERING

$

185

for 10-12 people

Includes: Chicken Francese Penne Vodka • Stuffed Eggplant Rollatini Salad • Bread & Butter

www.ilgiardinello.com – GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

–Photo courtesy Berkeley Township Elementary BERKELEY – On October 19, students and staff at Berkeley Township Elementary took part in Wear Pink theme day in honor of cancer awareness. Thank you to all the students, staff and families who took part in this day. Thank you also to a BTES family for making ribbons for some of our classes!

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 15

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

Pine Beach Firefighters Teach Students Fire Safety 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

–Photo courtesy Pine Beach Volunteer Fire Co. 1 PINE BEACH – Members of the Pine Beach Volunteer Fire Co. 1 were hard at work on Oct. 12 teaching the Kindergarten-2nd Grade students at Pine Beach Elementary the importance of fire safety, and of course we took them to check out all of the cool equipment on the trucks!

Members went classroom to classroom visiting the students and giving them a small, yet informative lecture on some aspects of fire

safety such as: Having a family escape plan for emergencies, what to do with found matches or lighters and most importantly - stop, drop and roll.

We would like to thank the Pine Beach Elementary School teachers/administrators for having us and we will see you all next year!

Have questions/want to get a tour of our apparatus? Members are always available every Thursday from 6-7 p.m., stop on by!

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 athwaleye.com

732-350-9191

Auxiliary Unit Membership Drive

BEACHWOOD – The Beachwood Volunteer Fire Dept. Auxiliary Unit is looking for new members. Interested in learning about supporting the fire department and serving the community? Contact us today.

Our Auxiliary is looking for motivated and dedicated people to serve this vital part of our department. If you are interested in learning more, email us at admin@bvfd16. com.

ATTENTION SILVER RIDGE PARK WEST HOMEOWNERS THERE WILL BE A REGULARLY SCHEDULED HOMEOWNERS MEETING ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2018, AT 6:30 PM AT THE CLUBHOUSE. THE PROPOSED 2019 ANNUAL BUDGET WILL BE PRESENTED AND DISCUSSED AT THAT TIME. PLEASE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ATTEND THIS MEETING.

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

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 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

Page 16, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 17

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 18, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

NOW OPEN!

SILVER TIME

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

ADULT MEDICAL DAY CARE CENTER

MEDICAID – No Out-Of-Pocket

Veterans, Long-Term Care Ins & Private Pay Welcome

FREE Hot & Nutritious Breakfast & Lunch Transportation • MD Appointments Outings • Shopping TO ARRANGE A GUEST DAY CALL: 848-224-4285

Enjoy The Silver Time Experience 600 Mule Road • Toms River, NJ 08757

BAYVILLENJONLINE.COM Your Web Resource for Bayville NJ • Community Information • Restaurant Listings • Local Businesses AND MUCH MORE...

www.BayvilleNJOnline.com » 732-929-0730

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.

What Does Hearing Loss Look Like Across the Age Spectrum?

More than 36 million American adults report that they have hearing loss. Although many people assume hearing loss only affects those around retirement age, about two-thirds of all cases of hearing loss occur in people under the age of 65. So how can hearing aids benefit the entire age spectrum, children, teens, the American workforce, and retirees? Let’s take a look at some rather revealing data regarding hearing loss and hearing aids.

In children and teens: At least 1.8 million U.S. children have trouble hearing.

Nearly 1.5 million are school age.

Nine of every 10 children born deaf are born to parents who can hear normally.

In-utero ear infections can lead to deafness.

Three continuous months of ear infections can lead to deafness.

Children exposed to secondhand smoke have twice the risk of hearing loss.

One in five teens now suffers from at least a mild hearing loss due to excessive volume when using iPods and other listening devices.

In the American workforce: About 26 million Americans between the prime employment ages of 20 and 69 have high-frequency hearing loss.

One in four workers exposed to high levels of noise experience hearing loss later in life.

Those with untreated hearing loss lose

about $30,000 a year due to underemployment.

Police, fi refighters, factory workers, farmers, construction workers, musicians, heavy-industry workers, the military and professional hunters are at the highest risk of experiencing hearing loss.

In retirees: About 30 percent of adults ages 65 to 74 have hearing loss.

About 47 percent of adults over the age of 75 have hearing loss.

Hearing loss in retirees leads to more hospitalization and poorer health overall.

Dementia, depression and brain shrinkage are all strongly correlated to untreated hearing loss, which is likely partially responsible for those diseases occurring.

Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are also associated with untreated hearing loss.

Fortunately, hearing aids are a huge benefit to 90 percent of those with hearing loss, regardless of age group or severity. For those with mild hearing loss, hearing aids greatly reduce or eliminate the risk of income loss, and people with hearing aids are nearly twice as likely to be employed as those with untreated hearing loss or those who simply don’t wear their hearing aids. If you want to make sure you’re getting all you can out of your current set, bring them in and we’ll take a look at how the technology is working for you.

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

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

OCEAN COUNTY NJ ONLINE

Your Year-Round Resource for Seaside Heights

11/30/18

Your Gateway Resource to Ocean County NJ Information

♦ Beach Cam ♦ Beach & Surf Conditions ♦ Restaurants ♦ Discount Hotel/Motel Rooms ♦ Attractions

♦ Ocean County Events ♦ Community Information ♦ Business Listings

www.SeasideHeightsNJOnline.com

www.OceanCountyNJOnline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 19

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

Can You Eat Dark Chocolate With A Milk Allergy?

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Dark chocolate is a staple in my house.

What are you supposed to do if you’re allergic to milk, and want to eat dark chocolate?

It’s a good question.

Milk is actually allowed as an ingredient in “dark” chocolate, but sometimes it produces a harmful allergy in dairy-sensitive individuals. The reality is that most chocolates contain some milk, and it’s undisclosed.

The FDA actually tested 100 different brands of dark chocolate bars, and they specifically tested it for the presence of milk. Of these 100 bars, only six of them listed the ingredient of milk! The other 88 bars did not disclose milk as an ingredient, yet 51 of them contained milk.

Dairy-tainted chocolates are among the most frequently reported allergic reactions.

It’s unfortunate, but true that milk can get into a dark chocolate product even when it’s not directly added. The problem happens because the dark chocolate is often produced on the same equipment that makes their milk chocolate bars. And traces of milk often inadvertently wind up in the dark chocolate batter. It’s essentially a problem of cross-contamination. My best suggestion to you is to completely avoid dark chocolate (if you’re allergic to milk or dairy) unless the brand you’re buying is made on equipment dedicated to dark chocolate bars only. This is hard to find, but possible.

This is why it’s difficult to place your trust in the food industry. They don’t mean

to make people sick, but their laziness or sloppiness can lead to pain and suffering for some of you. As a result, you see warnings on the label that serve as a wink of sorts. This product “may contain dairy” or “may contain traces of milk” or this one, “manufactured in a facility that uses milk.” There are others but if you’re my best friend, I would tell you to replace the word “may” with “probably!”

The take home message is you should not assume that your dark chocolate is free of milk, and you should not consume it if you have serious allergic reactions to milk, regardless of the label.

I have a checklist of 14 alias names for milk-derived ingredients which may be hidden in your food. My list will help you find undisclosed milk in your candy bars and chocolates. If you’d like to receive that as well as the longer version of today’s article, sign up for my newsletter at suzycohen. com and I will email this to you next week.

I’ll also tell you why some chocolate bars aren’t good for vegans. Here’s a fun fact, white chocolate doesn’t’t contain any cacao whatsoever, it’s just a combination of cocoa butter, sugar, and milk, but no cocoa solids like dark and milk chocolate have. It’s definitely something to avoid if you’re dairy-intolerant or allergic to milk.

In closing, when it comes to dark chocolate, the dairy free claims and statements on the label are best completely disregarded if the manufacturer fails to use dedicated machinery and equipment due to cross-contamination.

(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) ©2018 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

GET THE BEST CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENT OF YOUR LIFE. Avoid the Snap, Crackle, Pop Our practice now offers a unique, breakthrough approach to patient care called Koren Specific Technique (KST).

There is no twisting, turning, “cracking” or “popping” of joints with KST; instead, you receive gentle, specific corrections to your spine and structural system. Most adjustments or corrections are done either standing or sitting.

Find out why people suffering from sciatica, migraine, colitis, chronic pain, thoracic hump, poor posture, disc problems, depression, dyslexia, sleeping difficulties, autism and many other conditions rave about KST.

VIP CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Mark Lynch, DC

222 Serpentine Drive, Bayville Serving Bayville & Forked River area for 28+ years Certified Massage therapy available Mon.-Sat. Most Ins. Accepted

(732) 269-BACK (2225)

Murat Karatepe, M.D. FACC Board Certified in Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology & Echocardiography

Asu Rustenli, M.D. FACC

Board Certified in Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, Echocardiography, Cardiovascular CT, Vascular Medicine & Vascular Interpretation (RPVI)

Invasive & Non-Invasive Cardiology

Comprehensive Cardiac Care

Echocardiography (including Transesophageal) Cardiac Catheterizations • Cardiac Nuclear Stress Testing Holter Monitoring

MURAT KARATEPE, MD 2101 Lake Road Whiting, NJ

25 Mule Rd. Suite B2 • Toms River

732-505-9005

Hours by Appointment AFFILIATED WITH COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP!

Same Cook

NOW OFFERING FREE DELIVERY from Rt 37 to Lacey!

305 Rt 9 at Scott Dr • Bayville • 732-269-6500 • frankiespizzanj.com

CATERING SPECIAL Six Entree Package Includes: 1. Italian Style Antipasto Salad $ 99 2. Baked Ziti 3. Penne in Vodka Sauce 4. Chicken Francese 5. Sausage & Peppers 6. Homemade Meatballs

199

+ Tax

TAKE OUT

$

Complimentary 2 Dozen Garlic Knots

249

99

+ Tax

DINE-IN

Serves Parties of 15-20 People

Home of the Special Large Pizza $ 99

9

+ Tax

VALID Mon. • Thurs.

Pick Up or Delivery.

NO LIMIT.

3 Large Subs or Wraps & MATCH - PICK UP OR DELIVERY $ 99 MIXExcludes Veal, Shrimp, Prosciutto

21

+ Tax

& House Special

Trust, Respect, Compassion & Caring 3rd Generation Family Owned & Operated Since 1940 Affordable Cremation Services ♦ Pre-Need Counseling & Planning SSI, Medicaid & Veterans Benefits Accepted

Anthony P. Mastapeter Owner/Manager

Marc A. Mastapeter Director

NJ Lic. No. 3365

NJ Lic. No. 4873

270 Route 9 ♦ Bayville, NJ ♦ 732.269.3100 400 Faitoute Avenue ♦ Roselle Park, NJ ♦ 908.245.1558 www.mastapeterfuneralhome.com

Finances, Open Space, Jobs And Drug Epidemic Shape Freeholder Race

By Chris Lundy OCEAN COUNTY – Four men are facing off for two, three-year terms on the Board of Chosen Freeholders, the body that governs the day-to-day operations of Ocean County.

Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little is running for re-election. Gary Quinn is taking John Bartlett’s place on the Republican side after Bartlett announced his retirement. They vow to continue providing services to residents while being fiscally responsible.

Democrats Teddy Price and Vince Minichino are challenging them. They said they want to increase the county’s efforts in bringing in jobs and fighting the opioid epidemic. Currently, the five-member Freeholder board are all Republicans.

Each candidate was given the same list of questions, and instructed not to make negative attacks on the competition.

Their answers are below, edited for narrative flow. The candidates are presented in the order their responses were received.

Gerry Little, Surf City, has been a freeholder since 2003. Prior to that he served on the Surf City Borough Council from 1995 to 2003, and was on the Long Beach Township Board of Commissioners from 1988 to 1991. He retired in 2003 as the chief of staff for the 9th Legislative District.

He has been involved in many organizations, including the Surf City Taxpayer’s Association, Alliance for a Living Ocean, the USO, and the Marine Corps Toys for Tots. He is the former chairman of the Ocean County Planning Board and the Ocean County Natural Lands Advisory Board.

Gary Quinn, Lacey, has been on the Lacey Township Committee since 2003.

The committee chooses a new mayor from among them every year, and he has served as mayor five years. He served five years on the Lacey Township School Board, including one year as its president.

He said he is currently working in management and sales, is a real estate broker, and has had a 40-year career in real estate development, management and sales.

He has been a member of several civic groups, including the Rotary Club of Forked River and the Lacey Township Chamber of Commerce, serving as president of those organizations at times. He has been involved in youth sports, such as Lacey Little League, Lacey Soccer, and BCYAA Basketball.

Little and Quinn issued a joint statement for their goals for the next three years.

They want to continue the government that has provided the county with its extremely good AAA bond rating, and having the fourth-lowest property taxes in the state. A bond rating is like a credit score for the county. It allows the county to borrow money at a lower rate because

lenders know the county is in good financial shape.

“Ocean County is home to more than 42,000 veterans, more than any other county in New Jersey. These brave men and women have made great sacrifices for our nation and our freedom. Now, it is our turn to ensure that they receive all the benefits to which they are entitled,” they said. Currently, Little serves as the liaison to the Ocean County Bureau of Veterans Services and thanks each one of our veterans for their service.

“Preserving open space has been another priority for the Board of Freeholders,” the statement read. “To date, our Natural Lands Trust Fund has protected more than 16,000 acres of open space throughout the county. Just recently, the Board agreed to purchase the Forked River Mountains tract in Lacey and Ocean townships, which will add another 8,000 acres of pristine pinelands to the protected list. The county also operates one the finest public parks systems in the state.

Planning in now underway for a new county park in Manchester Township.

Berkeley Island Park also reopened this year, with new facilities including the county’s first splash park, after it was completely destroyed by Super Storm Sandy.

“Low taxes, open space, ser vices for veterans and seniors, parks, an award-winning library system, state-ofthe-art vocational-technical schools and an exceptional community college all contribute to providing our residents with an outstanding quality of life,” they said.

Teddy Price, Toms River, is a lineman for PSE&G, and is a shop steward for IBEW local 94.

He has been a coach and volunteer for the Toms River Soccer Association, and president of the Toms River East Booster Club. He is an active volunteer and donor to the ASPCA, and donor to Saint Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

“I never held public office. I believe that’s a good thing,” he said. “We need to drain the swamp by removing these lifetime politicians from the freeholder office.”

If elected, he would create an Economic Development Authority. This group would have the power to pair municipalities with businesses that want to relocate to Ocean County.

“In Burlington County, the EDA brought in Amazon, Suzuki and a large distribution center for retailer B&M, creating thousands of good paying jobs,” he said.

There’s been no previous effort to bring strong businesses to the county, he said.

This forces residents to commute to work.

“Our children graduate with skills and degrees, then they leave because they can’t find good paying jobs here,” he said. “Ocean County residents deserve (Freeholder - See Page 22)

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 21

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

Robert C. Shea Esq.

By Michael J. Deem, Esq., of R.C. Shea and Associates People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deser ve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

Statistics show that nearly 50 percent of all nursing homes are short staffed.

The staff people who do work in these facilities are underpaid, overworked, and all too often overburdened, which in t ur n leads to elder neglect and abuse.

Even more alarming is the prediction that the problem will only worsen in the near future. More than 91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients. A Health a nd Hu ma n Ser v ices De pa r t ment report found patients in understaffed nursing homes were more likely to suffer from a variety of problems, such as bed sores, malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, pneumonia, and serious blood born infections. It’s a serious concern that will only increase with time, given that the population of people aged 85 or older is expected to double to 8.9 million by the year 2030.

Signs of abuse and Michael J. Deem neglect may be (but a r e not l i m it e d t o) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unex pla i ne d i nju r ie s , frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse call the trial attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

6 DINING ROOM SEATS: Fabric, Foam & Labor

495 (Selected Fabrics) Slipcovers Are Our Specialty!!! $

00 + TAX

Large Selection Of Fabric • Boat Upholstery Kitchen Chairs • Window Treatments • Cornices-Draperies Foam Rubber Cut to Size • FREE ESTIMATES

732-270-0622

1177 Fischer Blvd. • Toms River • 1/2 Mile Off Hooper Ave.

609-494-7880 Beach Haven Area

609-597-2676 Manahawkin Area

36 YEARS IN TOMS RIVER ... Come see our samples!

Cabinet Refacing • Vanities Quality Craftsmanship Family Owned & Operated Over 30 Years’ Experience EXCEPTIONALLY LOW PRICES!

Call for a FREE Over-The-Phone Estimate!

SENIOR DISCOUNT

$500.00 OFF Complete Reface

One coupon per address. Cannot be combined. Expires 12/31/2018.

TFS Kitchen Refacing 848-459-3192

NJ Licensed & Insured Consumer Affairs #13VH00975300

NEW!

SIT, SIP & PLAY NJ Lotto Quick Draw (Keno Style) & ALL NJ Lottery Games

Hot Tea

Flavors

of the Week:

Cold Buster Tea & Hibiscus Tea!

TEA BAR IS OPEN! Hand-Shaken Confections!

Tis the Season for Pumpkin Spice!

Bubble Tea!

We can add CBD Isolate or Kava Extract to any tea!

Chronic Pain? Anxiety? Addiction?

KRATOM TEA

Made From The Leaves Of A Coffee Tree PROVIDES:

Pain Relief • Mood Enhancement • Energy/Stamina Eliminates Effects of Withdrawal

NEW VARIETIES EVERYDAY!

Full Product Lines Available:

Fresh Brewed Kratom Tea, Capsules or Powder

Full Spectrum Hemp Based CBD • Cannabidiol Based CBD Kratom • Hawaiian Kava Kava

BILL’S BILL’S UPHOLSTERY UPHOLSTERY FALL FABRIC SALE!

Many Styles & Colors to Choose From! Solid Wood & LeMica® Doors LIFETIME WARRANTY ON OUR LEMICA LINE!

Shop-At-Home Service

We take every precaution to bring you the very best organic product!

All Natural – No Additives • Lab Certified – Analysis to Origin

5 OFF

$ 00

$25 Purchase.

Not valid on sale items.

Offer expires 11/17/18.

Our Goal Is To Help Improve Your Quality Of Life

TEA SPOT 20% OFF

SELECTED FABRICS

Wide selection of fabrics to choose from!

Coupon must be presented at time of order.

Exp. 11/30/18.

655 Atlantic City Blvd • Bayville 848-238-7584 www.njkratom.com *All medical claims are based on personal experience.

Kratom Tea has not yet been approved by the FDA.

OPEN 7 DAYS! 9AM-9PM

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

Freeholder:

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! 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

Continued From Page 20 good paying jobs closer to home. Wages paid in Ocean County are the lowest in the state.”

Ocean County needs more commercial development, not residential, he said.

“I want to offer tax abatements for small, medium and large businesses. We have to offer incentives to businesses to bring jobs to Ocean County instead of tax breaks to builders for multifamily housing,” he said. “Overdevelopment in Ocean County is out of control.”

Part of his plan would be to implement a rate of growth ordinance. This would cause builders to make long-term commitments to the community they build in.

Vince Minichino, Brick, is a lifelong resident of Ocean County and is the business agent and trustee for Teamster Local 469. He has coached a Brick Little League team, and volunteered with the Jersey Shore Council of the Jersey Shore, and was a rider with the American Legion Motorcycle Riders Association.

“The most important issue facing our county, and our country, is the opioid epidemic,” he said. “For too long Ocean Count y and Mon mouth Count y, our neighbor to the north, have been ground zero for the opioid crisis in New Jersey.

“Progress has been made. First responders routinely carry naloxone, which can bring drug users close to death back to

life. But the real answer is not preventing deaths by overdose, it is preventing the use and abuse that leads to these overdoses,” he continued. “There is no magic bullet, and I know that schools, parents and other agencies are trying to prevent the drug abuse. My proposal is we work with the County Board of Health as follows: Hold irresponsible prescribers responsible. It is not acceptable to prescribe large doses of narcotic drugs without close supervision, follow up, and warning about the dangers of dependencies. Most doctors are careful and appropriate with their prescriptions, but too many legally prescribed drugs end up being abused.

Educate the parents. Schools attempt to teach students the dangers of drugs, but many students aren’t paying attention, and many parents do not attend the educational seminars available to them. The county should be inventive in disseminating information - information enclosed in tax bills, information through social media, and a speaker bureau available to make short presentations at public meetings.

Put the high level drug dealers in jail.

Addicts need to be diverted to treatment.

Serious drug dealers need to be taken off the streets.

Treat the addicts. The county has been proactive in finding treatment for opioid addicts, but access to effective, affordable treatment must be improved.”

Pine Beach Home Improvement Program

PINE BEACH – The Borough of Pine Beach is accepting names for participation in its municipally sponsored home improvement program for low and moderate-income families. Your name can be added to the waiting list by calling Pine Beach’s consultant, Affordable Housing Administrators at 732-966-0674.

Eligible home improvements include roofing, windows, electrical upgrades, heating systems, insulation, plumbing and any other health, safety or code violations.

The program is structured as a forgivable loan. There are no monthly payments and no interest. The loan is forgiven after ten years.

The program is available for owner-occu-

pied single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes and duplexes in which the owner occupies one of the units. To be eligible to participate, your gross annual income (meaning pre-tax income) for all household members must be less than: 1 person household $ 50,350 2 person household $ 57,550 3 person household $ 64,750 4 person household $ 71,900 5 person household $ 77,700 6 person household $ 83,450 7 person household $ 89,200 8 person household $ 94,950 Applications will be accepted until November 5, 2018. Applicants will be served on a fi rst come fi rst served basis.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 23

CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate

Items Wanted

Homestead Run 55+ Community Toms River. Immediate Occupancy – RENTALS, 2 BR homes- 1 or 1.5 Baths. SALES - single & doublewide homes. Call 732-370-2300.

(51)

WANTED TO BUY - Cash paid for old 45 RPM Doo Wop/Soul/R&B/ Blues records. Contact Bob at bobo78rpm@verizon.net or 732-2446313 (daylight hours).

(46)

For Rent

CASH PAID!! - LP records, stereos, turntables, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items.

Come to you. 732-804-8115.

(48)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. See our 2018 specials on our website. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

Vinyl Records Wanted - LP Albums - Rock, Blues, Reggae, Metal, Punk, Jazz, Psychedelic, soul. Very good condition only.

Call Rick 908-616-7104.

(48)

Clean Outs, Clean Ups - Hauling, small moves, minor interior and exterior repairs. Honest and dependable. LIC 13VH05930800.

Tony/Owner 732-678-7584. (t/n)

Help Wanted

Cheap Painting Done Rite Over 35 years experience.

Fully insured. Free estimates.

732-506-7787, cell.

(45)

Whiting Crestwood Village 5 - (55+) Adult Community. 2 bed, 1 bath, porch, W/D, C.A.C., garage. No pets. $900 plus utilities. Available November. Call 732-604-0323. (48)

Mobile For Sale Mobile Home For Sale - 1974 Skyline 12x60, one owner. 2 bedrooms, front kitchen, AC, shed. Very good condition.

Colonial Mobile Park. Family park.

55 1st St., Manchester. Shed included.

Call for information 732-657-6166, to see. Priveate driveway off st. (46)

Auto For Sale Volvo S60 – 2006. AWD. Sunroof.

Leather interior. 103,000 miles. Best offer over $3,000. 609-698-1949. (46)

Misc.

We Pay Cash for Houses - in Toms River and Close FAST. Tired of Evicting Tenants? Tired of Dealing With Repairs and Expenses on Your Home? We Buy Your House In Any Condition! Call 609-277-3126. (48) Flea Market & Craft Show - Saturday, November 3. Greenbriar Woodlands, 1 Kensington Cir., Toms River. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. For Info 732341-4259, $ All Prices.

(46)

Estate Sale Manchester - 33 Elmswell in Leisure Knoll. Sat/Sun Nov. 3$4. 9-3p.m.

Vintage goods in whole house with over 800 records, costume jewelry, pipes, toy trucks, dish sets, bedding, shoes, more.

(46)

Items Wanted $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid.

Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot.

5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n) Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/ dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac.

Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) 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)

Employment Opportunity - Senior Services Berkeley Mini-Bus Driver for Senior Services. 30 hours Monday – Friday 8am to 2pm $9.75 hour. Must possess a CDL Class B with Passenger Endorsement. *All Positions are full time with Benefits* Please send resume to rtonnesen@ stfrancislbi.org. EOE/AA. (46) Now Hiring – The Goddard School on Route 70 is seeking full time Teacher’s Assistant and leads for the upcoming school year. We provide a warm, loving environment for children up to six years. Must have a flexible schedule, available Mon-Fri. Benefits include paid time off, 401k and paid lunch on Fridays. To learn more about these positions, email your resume to tomsriver2nj@goddardschools.com 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) Kitchen/Wait Staff Needed – Apply online at magnoliaal.com or in person at Magnolia Gardens 1935 Route 9, Toms River. For more info call 732-557-6500 or email hr@magnoliaal.com.

(46) Caregiver – I’m a loving, compassionate caregiver with over 20 years experience to include demential and Alzheimer’s. Will take excellent care of your elderly/ sick loved one, at home. Willing to travel. Available 24/7. Live-in or live-out. 201-589-7269.

(52) Counter Help Wanted - Part time hours. Manchester Dry Cleaners.

Call Dave 732-657-4421.

(47) Micromedia looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n) Certified Home Health Aides Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

Services Don’s Painting - Specializing interior. Quality work. Very neat.

Reasonable prices. Special senior discounts. Honest and reliable.

Low winter rates. 732-899-4470 or 732-915-4075.

(46) Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonary, repairs large and small. 40 years experience. 732-674-3346. (45)

Services

I Will Clean Your Home - Very good prices. Call 732-773-5078. (47) Delightful Full Body Massage Relaxation at its best. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. $100 cash. Be good to yourself, you’re worth it. Call Sherry 848-254-4908 Brick area.

(45) Handyman – All masonry work, repairs, sidewalks, paving, stone. Call Andy 848-299-7412.

Free estimates.

(46) Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (51) Mature women (Manchester TWP Offers care for people who need help, helping themselves. H.H.A certified, over +15 years exp. Have own car.

Call or text me 609-216-4882. (48) 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) Wallpaper and Bordering - Hanging and removal of old. No job too big or small. Great references. Call Angela 609-891-8544.

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

(40) Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and insured.

Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) Need A Ride - Airports, cruise, A.C., doctors. Save $$$. Senior discounts.

Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227.

(4) Roofing Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows, gutters. Repairs and discounted new installations. Prompt service. Insured. NJ license #13HV01888400. Gutters cleaned.

Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (36) Dee’s Cleaning Service And Dog Walking Service - Cleaning homes like your since 1994 senior discounts.

Insured. Call Dee 732 552 6633. (47)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

2.

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

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

e x t r a s p a c e s

You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office.

Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows: 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ *In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or

fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:

Credit Card#

Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

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

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

Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER

(THIS IS REQUIRED)

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 24, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

Do Negative Political Ads Work?

I

By Jennifer Peacock t’s the home stretch of the political campaigning season, with midterm elections in just a few days and candidates trying to inspire their faithful to vote and sway agnostics to believe in them…and vote for them.

Anyone listening to the chatter has heard “blue wave” and “red wave.” Whichever wave sweeps in, it’s no doubt been a negative wave of political ads, with little touting but much tearing. And the closer the race, the uglier the ads: polls show Republican incumbent Tom MacArthur only a point ahead of Democrat challenger Andy Kim. Their nasty back and forth earned a writeup in NJSpotlight.com: MacArthur is a Trump-puppet who is pro-pollution; Kim has a padded resume and is buddies with Bob Menendez, who himself is plagued with corruption allegations and fighting to keep his own seat against GOP challenger Bob Hugin, although polls put him comfortably ahead. Hugin received the endorsement of Ocean County Democrat Theodore Price, who is running for a Board of Chosen Freeholder seat. His endorsement cost him the support of the Toms River Democratic Club, which formally withdrew its support of him and expelled him from the organization.

The topic of negative political ads has been studied in the academic realm. All the studies have their limitations and flaws, but many of them seemed to arrive at the same conclusion. Do negative ads work?

Eh? Maybe?

Brigid Harrison, a professor of Political Science and Law at Montclair State University, told Micromedia Publications that data indicates negative political ads have increased over the decades.

A November 2016 study by Conor M. Dowling and Yanna Krupnikov, “The Effects of Negative Advertising,” found that since 1960, campaigns have only gotten more negative. In 1960, only 10 percent of aired advertisements were “negative.” By the 2012 campaign, less than 15 percent were “positive.” Ads focus more on criticizing opponents than lauding one’s own accomplishments.

Their study cites J.G. Geer, who defines a negative political ad as “any criticism leveled by one candidate against another during a campaign.” A positive ad is one that “states why a candidate is worthy of

your vote.” The definitions lack nuance: “an ad either has a criticism and is negative, or has no criticisms and is positive,” the study said. However, other scholars have pointed out that ads can be negative toward an opponent while still touting the positives of the other candidate.

The bulk of campaigning ad spending is spent in defensive postures. Harrison pointed to the Hugin/Menendez race. Hugin, she said, spent $24 million of his own money on advertising, much of it in the summer.

His campaign started with him introducing himself to voters, and then began a series of negative attacks on Menendez. The sitting senator, who doesn’t have $25 million of his own money to spend, had to make a decision on how to spend his advertising dollars: does he spend it on touting his record, or defending himself against Hugin’s negative charges?

“Most of the research shows that negative advertising is both effective at swaying voters’ opinions. It also has the tendency to tamp down support for a candidate,” Harrison said. “So, for example, if a candidate takes out negative advertising against his or her opponent, even if the voter may not believe all the charges that have been levied, they may be less enthusiastic and therefore less likely to turn out and vote, which sometimes is the goal of negative advertising.”

Yet a 2014 study showed that of those surveyed, 76 percent of Americans found negative advertising distasteful. So why the increase?

“It’s not to say we don’t see any positive ads - we do - but also remember that a lot of the ads we are seeing now are purchased not by campaigns, but by independent expenditure entities and so they are much more likely to engage in negative advertising, targeting one candidate or another, rather than touting the resume or the record of a candidate,” Harrison said.

“I don’t know that we have to necessarily like something for it to be effective,” Harrison continued. “When you’re watching negative advertising, it is likely to make you feel distrustful of politics, not supportive of a candidate that perhaps you had supported in the first place. Just because you feel those things and don’t like them doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not being effective at shaping your views. So, the disconnect is in thinking somebody has to

like something in order to have it accurately do what it’s intended to do.”

Donald Green, a professor of political science at Columbia University, wrote a response to a reader question for Scientific American. He cited the results of a 2007 published study. “The authors reported that negative ads tended to be more memorable than positive ones but that they did not affect voter choice. People were no less likely to turn out to the polls or to decide against voting for a candidate who was attacked in an ad.”

Green conducted his own study with colleagues in 2006, using the campaign of Texas Governor Rick Perry as their specimen, studying 18 media markets randomly for pro-Perry ads. Any effects, they found, were short-lived.

“Although evidence on the effectiveness of negative political ads is inconclusive, campaign consultants clearly believe in their power, which explains why negative ads are so often used,” Green concluded.

Educator Sean Quirk, formerly of Middletown, is a registered Democrat who plans to vote in the upcoming midterm elections.

He’s a lifelong New Jersey resident who now lives and works in Bergen County.

“I have heard a lot of campaign ads and they are almost always negative. The ones that I recall most are for the governor’s race for New York: Andrew Cuomo and Mark Molinaro. Also the earlier Democratic primary with him against Zephyr Teachout and Cynthia Nixon. I remember distinctly some ads being very negative, in the sense that Nixon was calling out Cuomo on not serving the people of New York City in regards to transportation, i.e. the New York City, MTA issue,” Quirk told Micromedia Publications. “In my home state of New Jersey, Bob Hugin’s ads against Bob Menendez were also fairly negative, attacking Menendez on his record and his ethics violations/court trials for corruption.

“I will be honest, I myself think that Bob Menendez is not the most ethical person, and his record of ethic violations doesn’t make it easy to vote for him. So, yes - Bob Hugin was working on what was already a raw nerve. Menendez is pro-teaching/ pro-union so, I will most likely vote for him with a conflicted conscience,” Quirk said.

James Cavnar, of Beachwood, is the vice president of talent acquisition at Healthfirst in New York City. He’s a registered Repub-

lican. This campaign season, he’s seen both positive and negative ads, but defi nitely more negative. However, he doesn’t view ads as negative if they stick with issues, but rather, if attacks turn personal. When the mud starts slinging that low, it generally makes him think less of the one doing the slinging, not the one covered in mud. “[The ads are] much more negative. Just compare the ads from 30 years ago to today.

The accusations made, the language used, the personal nature of many of the topics covered (especially if they are unrelated to the election) are nothing like the ads of a few decades ago. No shame anymore.

Having said that, they must work on a lot of people because they keep getting worse,” Cavnar said.

Benjamin Szuba, an Ocean County resident, weighed in.

“A negative ad portrays the candidate in ‘what society deems’ a negative and/ or distasteful light. They may possibly bring up something from the candidate’s past, even if it was just an accusation, but again negative. Something negative may not necessarily mean illegal, it could be something unethical,” Szuba explained to Micromedia Publications about what he believes is a negative political ad. But, he uses the negative to motivate him. “It has only had me look deeper at a candidate to find out more about them. I tend to find humor in them, actually. Especially when the negative ad they are trying to run against a candidate only brings forth their own hypocrisies even more. An example would be Bob Menendez. This guy had the nerve to say things about (Supreme Court Justice Brett) Kavanaugh during his hearings….

Usually the attacker comes out worse when their own hypocrisy comes out.”

“I think politics in the age of Trump have become very polarizing. … Democrats are called ‘an angry mob’ by Republicans and Donald Trump. Republicans are seen as obstructionist and villains of the middle class.

My father is a life-long Democrat who believes that Mitch McConnell is a traitor and Trump makes his blood boil. I do not subscribe to such views; but many people do,” Quirk said. “I think in today’s politics, there is no middle. You are a Democrat and against anything or anyone that claims to be Republican. You are a Republican trying to save America from liberalism.

“It is all so depressing.”

BUSINESS DIRECTORY owner

operated

TOMS RIVER CIGARS

AFFORDABLE REPAIRS

Remodels • Installations • Senior Discounts

NO JOB TOO SMALL

ALL CALLS ANSWERED

732-312-7201

$25 OFF

ANY SERVICE

Present Coupon After Quote!

Cannot be combined.

Restrictions apply.

Insured • NJMPL#9638 • NJHIC#13VH0224300 • Bonded

• Flat Screen TV’S & WiFi • Pipe & Tobacco Accessories • Espresso & Cappuccino Bar • Large Walk-In Humidor Many Brands!

• Custom Label Cigars • Rated Cigars • Santana House Blend

www.blvdcigarshop.com

Grab a Bricktoberfest Beer Stein, fill it with 5 Brickhouse Cigars (MIX & MATCH) and the

Stein is yours FREE!* *While supplies last.

1521 Rt 37 W • Toms River •732-244-4477

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 25

BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE!

FREE ESTIMATES/FULLY INSURED

(732) 463-TREE (732) 463-(8733)

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!

G. Murphy Tree Service, Inc. Pruning, Removal, Stump Removal Chips, Firewood, Over 30 Yrs. Experience Bayville, New Jersey

GORDON MURPHY

SUPERIOR RARE COINAGE Buying, Selling, Trading and Appraising RARE COINS

WE WILL BUY IT ALL! IMMEDIATE CASH FOR: YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PET EXPERTS − FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

EXCITED TO OFFER...

Professional Grooming Services ∙ FREE Delivery Service Complimentary Expert Advice 1071 Route 37 W ∙ Toms River, NJ 08755 ∙ 732-557-4500 (In the Favorites Shopping Center) ∙ www.baronespetsupply.com

• U.S. & Foreign Coins • Currency • Gold & Silver Bullion

• Scrap Gold & Silver • Sterling Silver • School Rings

• Collectibles • Jewelry

MEMBER ANA

“STOP & READ”

Retail Location Offering: Estate Appraisals Rare Coins Investment Portfolio Lay-A-Way Plan

PAYING TOP DOLLAR

Open Mon-Fri: 10am-5pm Sat: 10am-3pm Sun: CLOSED

1171 Fischer Blvd • Toms River, NJ 08753 • 732.294.5676 We offer Fair, Reliable & Honest Dealings in Rare Coins & Collectibles

SINCE 1920

Residential & Commercial

Tank Protection Plans • Budgets • Service Contracts Gas Conversions • Fuel Oil • Bottled Gas Plumbing #3563 Electrical #11134

732.349.4343

310 Main Street Toms River, NJ 08753

732-974-6777 Licensed & Fully Insured HIC# 13VH00043000

30+ years

Well Drilling • Pump and Tank Replacement Water Conditioning THEODORE F. ZAREMBA, JR. LIC. #0019239

PHONE: (732) 237-2440 FAX: (732) 237-8780 TedsWellService@aol.com

495 Wheaton Ave. Bayville, NJ 08721

Jeff’s Powerwashing 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

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

CUSTOM CARPENTRY • RENOVATIONS • KITCHENS ALTERATIONS • BATHROOMS • REMODELING ADDITIONS • CUSTOM DECK DESIGNS • & MUCH MORE

VISIT US AT: WWW.FSCONTRACTINGCORP.COM WE SERVICE MOST OF NEW JERSEY WE TAKE PRIDE IN RETURNING ALL PHONE CALLS

Owner Richard Grish

FSC1@comcast.net

call for your free estimate today!

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

609-971-0242 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!

With This Ad.

Lic. No 13VH04848400

732-300-6251

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS!

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

CALL 732.657.7344 TO FIND OUT HOW!

CONTRACTING. CORP. Experience ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

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

CASH BUYERS OF ALL SCRAP METALS DRIVE ON SCALE AVAILABLE • Steel • Aluminum • Copper • Wire • ACR • Brass • Appliances • Batteries • Stainless Container Service Available Convenient Location On The Corner Of Rt 166 & Flint Rd 98 FLINT RD., SOUTH TOMS RIVER NJ

732.286.6358 www.tristatecarting.com

Page 26, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 27

Linda’s PIZZA &

ITALIAN CUISINE

WE DELIVER ALL DAY!

318 Ocean Gate Ave. • Ocean Gate • 732.269.8282 OPEN 7 DAYS FOR DINE-IN, TAKE OUT & DELIVERY

2 LARGE PIES (Toppings Extra)

ONLY

$21.99 + tax

Eat In, Take Out or Delivery. Cannot be combined with an other offers. With coupon only.

PIZZA • CALZONE STROMBOLI • PASTA APPETIZERS • SIDES BAKED DISHES CHICKEN • SEAFOOD VEAL • COLD & HOT SUBS CHEESE STEAKS • WRAPS SAVE TIME WITH slicelife.com OR

ANY 2 CHICKEN DINNERS (Includes Salad)

Choose from: Marsala, Parmigiana, Francaise or Cacciatore

ANY 3 LARGE SUBS (Hot or Cold)

$21.99

$22.99+ tax

+ tax ONLY Excludes Subs Priced Over $10

Eat In,Take Out or Delivery. Cannot be combined with an other offers. With coupon only.

Eat In,Take Out or Delivery. Cannot be combined with an other offers. With coupon only.

1 LARGE PIE w/CHOICE OF ANTIPASTO OR REG. ORDER OF MUSSELS

12 CHICKEN WINGS

ONLY

(Toppings Extra)

ONLY

$18.99+ tax

Eat In,Take Out or Delivery. Cannot be combined with an other offers. With coupon only.

1 LARGE PIE & (Toppings Extra)

ONLY

$17.99+ tax

Eat In,Take Out or Delivery. Cannot be combined with an other offers. With coupon only.

You Can Now ORDER ONLINE at lindasnj.com

–Photos courtesy BTSD BERKELEY – On October 22, Mrs. Letizia’s friends at the H&M Potter School started up the Recycling Program again!

CHRISTOPHER T. LILLO, D.M.D. Same-Day Denture Repairs • Interest-Free Payment Plans • Fully Participating with Delta Dental & Guardian PPO Insurance Plans • Evening Appointments Available • Most Insurances Accepted-CareCredit Accepted

* 10% OFF All Dental Services for our Veterans *

FREE CLEANING! ($125 VALUE) With new patient exam and x-rays With coupon. Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 11/30/18.

Oak Ridge Professional Centre 191 Hwy 37 W • Toms River, NJ 08755

732.341.1120

www.oakridgedentalnj.com

Like us on Facebook!

RC R.C.SHEA S

& A S S O C I AT E S COUNSELLORS AT LAW

HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT OR ON THE JOB? AUTO ACCIDENT, SLIP & FALL, DOG BITES, PRODUCT LIABILITY, MEDICAL MALPRACTICE AND WORKER’S COMPENSATION SERIOUS LEGAL MATTERS REQUIRE SERIOUS AND EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS

KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS! (House Calls By Appointment) MANCHESTER AREA TOMS RIVER OFFICE (732) 408-9455 244 Main Street BRICK AREA Toms River, NJ 08753 (732) 451-0800 (732) 505-1212 WWW. RCSHEA.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 28, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

CHIMNEYS • GUTTERS • ROOFING • MASONRY

Busy Bee

Chimney & Gutter Cleaning • New Roofs Steps & Sidewalks

$39 CHIMNEY CLEANING – $85 GUTTER CLEANING

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

Owned & Operated by Mike Umstead

732-240-0488

HIC #13VH06729000

Peace of Mind and Heart Before, During and Beyond Timothy E. Ryan Owner/Senior Director N.J. Lic. No. 3103

Serving Ocean County for Over 50 Years “I have always believed that funeral service was a vocation and not simply a career.”

- Tim Ryan

OUR SERVICES • Burial/Graveside Services • Cremation Services • Memorial Services • Specialty Funeral Services

OUR LOCATIONS 706 Grand Central Ave. Lavallette, NJ 08735 732-793-9000 809 Central Ave. Seaside Park, NJ 08752 732-793-9000 145 St. Catherine Blvd.

Toms River, NJ 08757 732-505-1900 995 Fischer Blvd., Toms River, NJ 08753 732-288-9000 O’Connell Chapel • 706 Hwy 9 Bayville, NJ 08721 732-269-0300 DeBow Chapel 150 West Veterans Hwy. Jackson, NJ 08527 732-928-0032

www.ryanfuneralhome.com

NJ Police Officer & Wife Charged With Superstorm Sandy Fraud

By Kimberly Bosco TRENTON – Yet another two have been convicted for fraud for fi ling false applications for relief following Superstorm Sandy, announced Attor ney General Gurbir S. Grewal.

Nikola Lulaj, 45, of Seaside Heights and his wife, Majlinda Lulaj, 32, have been found guilty of fi ling fraudulent applications for federal relief funds in the amount of $187,000. Nikola is an officer with the Hoboken Police Department.

The couple was charged with of second-degree conspiracy, second-degree theft by deception, and six counts of fourth-degree unsworn falsification. They were convicted before Superior Court Judge James M. Blaney.

“As a result of the verdict, Lulaj must forfeit his employment as a police officer,” stated a press release from the Attorney General’s office.

The second-degree charges carry a sentence of 5-10 years in state prison and a fi ne of up to $150,000, while fourth-degree charges carry a sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a fi ne of up to $10,000.

The Lulaj’s will be sentenced in January; the date is yet to be determined.

According to testimony and evidence presented during the trial, the couple fi led fraudulent applications for relief funds in the form of FEMA assistance, a low-interest SBA disaster-relief loan, and state grants under the Homeowner Resettlement Program (RSP), the Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Elevation and Mitigation (RREM) Program, and the Sandy Homeowner and Renter Assistance Program (SHRAP) funded by the New Jersey Department of Human Services.

The fraudulent applications totaled approximately $187,074 in relief funds: $2,820 from FEMA, $90,200 in SBA loan proceeds, a $69,054 RREM grant, a $10,000 RSP grant, and a $15,000 SHRAP grant.

The Lulaj’s applications claimed that their property on Webster Avenue in Seaside Heights, which was damaged during Sandy, was their pr imar y residence during the storm. Their actual primary

residence was located in Dumont, NJ. In the time since Sandy struck, the couple has moved into the Webster Ave. home; however it was designated as a vacation/rental property during Superstorm Sandy, stated the AG’s office.

“For a police officer to commit this type of fraud is particularly egregious, because officers take an oath to uphold the law and we rightly hold them to the highest standards,” said Attorney General Grewal.

“When disaster strikes, we cannot allow dishonest applicants to divert disaster relief funds from the intended recipients – namely, those victims whose primary homes were destroyed or damaged.”

“We have recovered well over $2 million through these prosecutions and have delivered a strong message that should deter this type of fraud during future disaster recovery efforts,” said Director Veronica Allende of the Division of Criminal Justice. “I commend our trial team for this verdict and thank all of our law enforcement partners for their excellent work in these historic anti-fraud efforts.”

This conviction follows on the heels of 120 other charges against defendants who allegedly committed fraud related to Sandy relief programs.

Deputy Attorneys General Thomas Clark and Jamie Picard tried the case for the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Computer Crimes Bureau. They were assisted at trial by Detective Mark Byrnes, Detective Franco Cignarella and Analyst Rita Gillis.

The case was investigated for the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Computer Crimes Bureau by Deputy Attorney General Thomas Clark and Detective Mark Byrnes; with special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, HUD Office of Inspector General and SBA Office of Inspector General. The case was investigated and prosecuted under the supervision of Lt. Vincent Gaeta, Lt. David Nolan, Sgt. Fred Weidman, Deputy Bureau Chief Mark Kurzawa and Bureau Chief Julia S. Glass of the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Computer Crimes Bureau.

La Bove Grande Restaurant & Banquet 95 Thanksgiving Day Buffet 29 Per Person Plus Tax And Gratuity Children 10 & Under $16.95 $

Sunset Dinner

Monday - Thursday 4:00 - 10:00 • Complete Dinner

$19.95

Every Friday - Seafood Extravaganza 4:00pm - 10:00pm • Complete Dinner

$19.95

$11.95

Early Bird Starting At 7 Days: Sun. - Thurs. 12:00 - 6:00 • Fri. - Sat. 12:00 - 4:30 800 Route 70 • Lakehurst, NJ 08733

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

www.labovegrande.net • facebook.com/labovegrande

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 29

Page 30, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

jerseyshoreonline.com

BUSINESS PROFILE DeGRAFF FUNERAL HOME Compassionate • Respectful • Flexible

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home, Inc. 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst, N.J. 08733 732-657-7868 Sherry T. DeGraff, Mgr. N.J. No. 3921 degrafffuneralhome@msn.com

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home is family owned and operated. Founded

by Donald & Wanda DeGraff in 1979 in historic downtown Lakehurst. The building itself has a funeral history dating back to the early 1900’s. “Our father was the type of person who was so very compassionate and caring,” said Sherry DeGraff, Manager. “He was an entrepreneur, involved in a number of businesses, but his love was always for the funeral industry.”

DeGraff’s mother Wanda is still alive and “still our boss, even if she won’t admit it,” said DeGraff, and her father, Donald passed away in 2004.

Growing up with the funeral business surrounding her, DeGraff said she learned from an early age how to treat customers in their time of need. “You handle people in the same way you would want your own family handled, “said DeGraff. “You have to be a good listener, have a lot of compassion and be very flexible.

While the core values – compassion, respect and flexibility – have not changed for the DeGraff family, the trends in the funeral business have.

Years back, cremations were rare and some religious affiliations did not hold them in high favor. In 1990 the DeGraff family saw the future trends were leaning toward cremation, as a result, their daughter Sherry opened DeGraff Cremation Service offering a wide variety of cremation service options. The move towards more cremation represents the largest shift in the funeral industry. In fact, many consumers believe the cremation

itself is performed at the individual funeral home or cremation service they hired. This is not correct.

Crematories are owned by cemeteries. Most people are surprised when they hear that. Many people are unaware that cremation must be authorized by a spouse or blood kin under New Jersey State Law. This can cause undue stress for people who do not have a spouse or family.

In 2004, New Jersey law provides for the des- DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home has been family-owned and operated at 119 Union Avenue, ignation of an individual Lakehurst since 1979. Visit www.degrafffuneralhome.com or call 732-657-7868. to control the funeral or cremation of another person regard- services themselves have evolved decisions have been made, sparing less of whether the named person is over the years. While the typical uncertainty and confusion at a time related by marriage or blood. People viewing, church service and burial when emotional stress may make in relationships involving unmarried schedule is still largely followed by decisions difficult. Although pre-arco-habitants, or just close personal many, other families choose what is ranging might sound morbid, it isn’t. friends may find this provision benefi- known as “celebration of life” to re- It is part of sensible estate planning. cial. This designated person is called focus mourning one’s death towards Upon your passing, the truth is that a “Funeral Representative” and must celebrating one’s full life and its im- most people don’t have any idea how be named as such in a will. With this pact on others. Especially in troubled to get started, what they should know designation, they can bypass any economic times, the cost factor of a or who they can turn to. Pre-planning blood kin and can authorize crema- funeral is a concern for many families. your funeral can significantly minimize tion and control the funeral. Choosing Cremation and traditional funeral ser- the many stresses and pressures that cremation for final disposition in lieu vices are often comparable in price, accompany the grieving process of of traditional burial does not change through numerous options such as losing a loved one. A properly strucservice options for a family. In addition viewings, final disposition and other tured preplan can not only ensure that to cremation, the services can still in- factors that can increase or reduce your loved ones know what to do, but clude a traditional viewing, memorial the overall cost of a funeral. DeGraff can also make sure your bequests are service at the funeral home or church said, “Our prices are very affordable efficiently implemented. By reducing or graveside services when or if the because we’re still an old-fashioned many of the obvious family pressures, cremains are placed in a cemetery. funeral home.” DeGraff Lakehurst this provides some extra time for them Additionally, said DeGraff, the funeral Funeral Home offer pre-arrangement to work through some of the other services. Although nobody likes to struggles such as dealing with grief think or talk about dying, it is one of the and loss, notifying your loved ones, facts of life we all must eventually face. designing your obituary, writing a The sad truth is, thousands of people eulogy and creating the best possible die (whether expected or unexpect- way to celebrate and memorialize edly) each year without the proper your life. “I think the personalization end- of-life plan in place. Making of a funeral is important,” said Defuneral arrangements at the time of Graff. “We’re willing to work with just loss is extremely difficult for those about anything that a family wants left behind. Pre-arranging ensures to do, even if they think it might be that your family and funeral director away from tradition. We can make it know exactly what kind of funeral you happen.” want. Families tend to take comfort at DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home is the time of death, simply from know- located at 119 Union Avenue, Lakeing their loved one’s funeral reflects hurst. If you would like more informatheir wishes. When the funeral and tion, please call our dedicated staff sometimes even payment, have been at 732-657-7868 or you may visit our arranged in advance, most of the website at degrafffuneralhome.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018, Page 31

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of NOV 3 - NOV 9

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr. 19): Take advantage of a free ride when it is offered but don’t waste valuable resources by taking impulsive chances with your cash. In the week ahead, you will be able to work on reaching your goals one step at a time.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may be feeling like a party animal let loose from your cage. Feel free to explore new age ideas or to experiment with the latest social apps and technological gadgets but don’t go out of your way to shock people.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): While others quibble over the proper direction to take, you can steer the situation. Your thoughts are in tune with the long-range consequences of your actions in the week ahead, so your judgment will be right on the mark.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): What works for you may not go over so well with your mate.

Someone in close connection could be caught up in a complicated power struggle. Find a happy medium that you can both enjoy in the upcoming week.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Put your problems into perspective. Step back and take the long-range view. No matter what your problem is ask yourself if it will seem as important a year from now. Create a viable financial plan early in the week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Don’t try to control the family agenda. You may incur resistance if you try to run your home like a business. You will have much better results this week if you discuss your ideas in advance and focus on teamwork.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Life can be a roller coaster. It might seem that the more you try to keep your word the more people change their minds. To avoid unnecessary stress, wait until the second half of the week to hold a planning session.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In the week ahead let loved ones know how much you care.

You may be quite content and happy with your current relationship, but a partner may feel bored. Keep the excitement alive by finding unusual entertainment.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You and a partner will be on the same page when discussing loyalty and trust. This is an excellent time to obtain advice or professional consultations. Put investment ideas on the back burner in the week ahead.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Little Jack Horner stuck in his thumb and pulled out a plum.

You, on the other hand, might get your thumb caught in a bamboo Chinese finger puzzle trap.

Steer clear of complicated financial schemes in the upcoming week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Hope for the best and plan for the worst. You could be optimistic about your future income but should have a back-up plan just in case things don’t go your way.

Use your extra energy constructively this week.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Opportunities can appear out of the blue this week. Put on your thinking cap and you may understand how a casual word of advice can lead to bigger and better things. Your tastes can change quickly so wait to buy.

(c) 2018 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

NOW HIRING Join the Exciting World of Local News Media!

Micromedia Publications, Inc. is looking for an account executive to sell print and web advertising.

REQUIREMENTS: › Positive Attitude; High Energy › Reliable Car & Driver’s License › Good Organization/ Communication Skills › A Desire to Grow with the Company

OFFERING: › Competitive Base Salary › Monthly Bonuses › Vacation & Health Benefits All applicants please e-mail your resume, cover letter and references to jallentoff@jerseyshoreonline.com We are an EOE. Willing to train the right candidate.

wolfgang puck’s kitchen Get Back To Your ‘Roots’ And Discover Salsify This Autumn

By Wolfgang Puck

Autumn always feels to me like the perfect time to cook and serve root vegetables. Sure, all the year round we enjoy carrots, potatoes and other less-popular but still well-known roots (and tubers, to be botanically accurate about potatoes) such as parsnips, turnips and rutabagas. But cooler days seem perfectly suited to the comfort and warmth that root vegetable dishes provide.

This fall, please let me suggest that you try expanding your root repertoire with a vegetable that’s usually met with a puzzled look when it’s encountered at the farmers’ market or supermarket. The vegetable that causes so much bewilderment looks like a long, skinny, somewhat shaggy parsnip - only it’s either black or pale white in color.

It’s known most commonly as salsify. That English name raises almost as many questions as the look of the vegetable itself. In fact, the darker variety is also known as scorzonera (a descriptive Italian name for “black skin”).

And many people colloquially call both kinds of salsify an oyster plant, under the belief that, when cooked, it tastes like oysters. This is a misleading impression, because it doesn’t taste like the sea at all and actually has a mildly earthy, mineral-tinged, slightly sweet and creamy flavor.

You can find salsify year round, though it’s about to enter its peak of season, which lasts from late autumn through early spring. You can also find seeds, and grow them in your home garden. When you bring home your purchase, or harvest it, store the roots in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Before preparing salsify, you should peel it, immersing the roots in water with a little lemon juice to prevent discoloration. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly right after peeling the black variety, as it can discolor your skin.

After peeling them, very young, small salsify roots can be thinly sliced or shredded and tossed into mixed salads or slaws. But larger ones, which you’ll most often find, are best cut into larger pieces and cooked, usually by steaming or brief boiling until tender. Once cooked, the salsify can simply be tossed with butter or garlic butter and fresh herbs. It’s also delicious pureed like mashed potatoes. Salsify also lends itself very well to oven-baked gratins like the classic version I am sharing, served as a side dish with roast beef, pork, lamb, chicken or turkey.

I hope you’ll not only enjoy this recipe but also share it with other people you know, spreading the word about salsify so more farmers and home gardeners alike will grow it. Who knows? Maybe it will even jump-start your explorations of other root vegetables.

CLASSIC SALSIFY GRATIN Serves 4 4 whole salsify roots 1 lemon, halved 2 cups (500 mL) milk 2 cups (500 mL) water Kosher salt 2/3 cup (185 mL) heavy cream 1 garlic clove, peeled Freshly ground white pepper 1/4 cup (60 mL) finely shredded Gruyere or Emmenthaler cheese Trim off the tops and tips of the salsify roots.

With a swivel-bladed vegetable peeler, peel off the black skin of the salsifies, exposing the ivory colored flesh beneath. Cut the salsifies into 1 1/2-inch (3.75-cm) pieces. Immediately rub all of the pieces with the cut surfaces of the lemon halves to help prevent them from turning brown.

Wash your hands thoroughly.

Put the milk and water in a medium-sized saucepan with a pinch of salt. Add the salsify pieces. Bring the liquid to a boil over medium heat.

Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook the salsify until it is tender enough to be pierced easily with the tip of a small, sharp knife, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, put the cream in a small saucepan with the garlic clove and a little salt and white pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat slightly and simmer briskly, stirring frequently, until the cream’s volume reduce by a third to a half. Set aside.

Preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C). Bring a teakettle or medium saucepan half-filled with water to a boil.

When the salsify is tender, drain it; rinse thoroughly under cold running water; and drain again. Arrange the pieces in a single layer in a shallow ovenproof baking dish. Remove the garlic clove from the cream, taste the cream, and add a little more salt and white pepper to taste, if necessary. Drizzle the cream evenly over the salsify. Sprinkle evenly with the cheese.

Place the baking dish inside another baking dish or pan large enough to hold it comfortably.

Partly pull out the oven rack and put the nested pans on it; then, carefully pour boiling water into the outer pan to come halfway up the side of the pan containing the salsify. Carefully slide in the oven rack.

Bake until the cheese topping has turned golden brown and the cream is bubbly, 15 to 20 minutes.

Carefully slide out the rack and remove the nested pans from the oven; then, carefully lift out the baking dish of salsify and place on top of a folded kitchen towel to absorb water clinging to its bottom and side. Serve immediately.

(Chef Wolfgang Puck’s TV series,“Wolfgang Puck’s Cooking Class,” airs Sundays on the Food Network. Also, his latest cookbook, “Wolfgang Puck Makes It Easy,” is now available in bookstores. Write Wolfgang Puck in care of Tribune Media Services Inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207) © 2018 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 32, The Berkeley Times, November 3, 2018

jerseyshoreonline.com