2018-12-08 - The Southern Ocean Times

Vol. 6 - No. 24

In This Week’s Edition

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East Road Improvements Continue Around Rt. 72 Jughandle Government Page 8.

Coloring Contest

| December 8, 2018

Spodofora Looks Back Over 30 Years Of Public Service

Page 7.

Community News!

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

Pages 8-11.

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

Keeping You Informed: Over-the-Counter Devices

Page 16.

Dear Pharmacist

Why Your Thyroid Still Bothers You

Page 17.

Inside The Law Page 19.

Business Directory Page 21.

Classifieds Page 22.

–Photos by Kimberly Bosco Construction continues on the jughandle.

By Kimberly Bosco STAFFORD – Improvements to Route 72 and the East Road intersection continue to make headway and you might have noticed some major changes underway in the area. Lots of trees have been cleared behind the jughandle on Route 72 westbound, preparing the space for new drainage pipes, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT).

Since the project began in September, the NJDOT has

–Photo by Kimberly Bosco Mayor John Spodofora has won countless awards, some of which adorn the walls and shelves of his office in Town Hall.

By Kimberly Bosco STAFFORD – Phyt o r e m e d i a t i o n . To many, it is just a fancy word for the process that allows trees or othcompleted drainage work in the areas of the Garden State Parkway and the Stafford Square Shopping Center, stated Judith Drucker of NJDOT.

“Trees were cleared on Route 72 westbound in preparation for the installation of new drainage pipes and inlets along the north (Jughandle - See Page 4)

Georgian Court Breaks Past Win Record

By Chris Christopher LAKEWOOD – Put a winning season into the books for the Georgian Court University women’s volleyball team.

The Lions were 22-10 overall, including 12-4 at home. They were 16-3 in the seven-team Central Atlantic Athletic Conference South Division for a tie for second place with Thomas Jefferson University.

GCU’s 16 CACC wins were the program’s most

since 2009. Its 22 overall wins are the most in a single season since 2009.

The Lions finished the 2018 season with the third highest overall wins total in the 14-team conference. They fell to Post University 3-1 in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Tournament semifinals.

“Overall, we are generally happy with the season,” seventh-year Georgian Court coach Dan (Record - See Page 15)

er plants to soak up and remove contaminants from the soil.

In the case of Stafford Mayor John Spodofora, (Service - See Page 5)

New Local Nonprofit Will Help Fund Lacey Schools

By Kimberly Bosco LACEY – A new nonprofit organization was born in Lacey Township to be an alternative source of revenue for the students of the Lacey Township School District.

According to a release from the Lacey Education Foundation, it will be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, built and operated by volunteers.

The LEF mission statement is as follows: “The (Schools - See Page 4)

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Jughandle:

Continued From Page 1 side curb,” stated Drucker. “That will include a new culvert that will cross Route 72 to replace existing drainage.”

Motorists and locals can expect more traffic shifts during December onto the temporary median, to allow space for construction. Drucker noted that the lane shifts will still allow two lanes open during construction.

The improvement project is an $8.6 million federally-funded project that began on September 7, 2018 with intersection and roadway improvements in both directions for approximately one mile on Route 72.

Since that date, NJDOT’s contractor, Earle Asphalt Co., has completed preliminary construction work near the Garden State Parkway and the Stafford Square Shopping Center “with the majority of construction starting later this fall…Construction is expected to be completed in late 2019,” according to NJDOT. The work being performed currently on the

Schools:

Continued From Page 1

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Lacey Education Foundation was founded in 2018 to support educational excellence in the Lacey Township Public Schools. Serving as a bridge between our community and the schools, LEF encourages public and private philanthropy to enhance public education for students at all levels.”

It was founded in part by newly-elected Board of Education member Regina Discenza. Discenza had been on the board, stepped down for a year, and then won a three-year term starting in January. She currently acts as a trustee for the organization alongside four other individuals: Robert J. Paladino, Donna McAvoy, Domenick R. Biava, and Cyndi Sabatelli.

According to the Foundation, it has taken a lot

Route 72 jughandle has to do with drainage.

“There will be a new culvert and a revised jug handle circling a water basin from Route 72 westbound to a relocated East Road (East Road is being moved approximately 200 feet east from its current location),” stated a release from NJDOT dated Sept. 7.

The project will also incorporate: Two new storm water basins on Route 72 westbound Relocation of West Road from its location between McDonald’s and Mr. Tire to a new location between Element Restaurant and Starboard Plaza.

10-foot shoulders in each direction on Route 72 between the Garden State Parkway and the Stafford Square Shopping Center Median widening New barrier curbs New traffic signals and roadway improvements at Roosevelt Boulevard and Doc Cramer Boulevard intersections According to NJDOT, the project is intended to address and improve certain areas along Route 72 to decrease congestion and improve motorist safety.

of work over 11 months to gain approval and an official nonprofit status. While Discenza still currently acts as a trustee for the organization, she told Jersey Shore Online she plans to resign from the foundation when she officially takes her seat on the board come 2019.

“The Foundation’s endeavors are restricted to financial projects that further student achievement,” stated the release.

The Foundation’s first project is called “Technology for Digital Learning in the 21st Century,” which will help fund the purchase of new Chromebooks for the district’s students. Each Chromebook cart that holds 30 Chromebooks can cost the district approximately $6,000, according to trustee Donna Campo McAvoy.

For more information, to volunteer, or to donate, visit the LEF website at lacey educationfoundation.org.

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Service:

Continued From Page 1 it could signify something a little more meaningful.

Spodofora might just be the “phytoremediation” that Stafford needed over 30 years ago. Rooted in the Stafford community his entire life, some might say he replaced many of the “contaminants” in Stafford Township, producing a healthier community through his public service.

Spodofora took to public service after his involvement in a local stormwater management project. From there, he moved on to planning and zoning boards, became a member of the council, and then acted as mayor for the past 8-9 years.

From the 1980s to 2018, Spodofora has seen the Manahawkin Lake go from un-swimmable to one of the cleanest lakes in the nation; he has watched the community bounce back from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy in 2012; and he has seen the community he grew up in evolve into what it is today, one he defines as “full of successes.”

In an interview with Jersey Shore Online, Spodofora reflected on his greatest accomplishments, his hopes for the township, and his plans for the future as his days as mayor come to a bittersweet end.

Major Projects Two of Spodofora’s greatest personal accomplishments have gained him national recognition.

“I think the biggest thing I’m proud of is

a combination of cleaning up Manahawkin Lake and having it declared as the most successful lake restoration project in the nation,” he said, as well as “the design of a stormwater management system that also won the EPA National Award of Excellence.”

The 1980s-90s lake restoration project at Manahawkin Lake was not only one of national renown, but it also demonstrated the strength of the community.

“When I needed to do all the studies to qualify for funding to dredge the lake and clean it up, most of the volunteers” were Stafford residents, said Spodofora.

The Manahawkin Lake was closed to swimming for about 11 years prior to the project, causing it to become eutrophic, he explained, making it more like a swamp than a lake.

“I got a grant to do the study and, I still remember, it was about $30,000,” said Spodofora. “I knew we couldn’t do the study and meet all the parameters of the study with the grant of $30,000.”

In order to complete all aspects of the study, Spodofora called upon the community to volunteer their efforts, while he set aside the whole $30,000 grant for lab work.

“I said ‘I need help’ and people came with airplanes to do the aerial mapping, aerial shots for the dye dispersion studies, to do everything,” he said. “People volunteered their planes, people came with their boats… we did all of the work.”

The lake study was so successful that Stafford Township was granted the entire EPA Clean Lakes Program funds for the

nation for that year, he added.

This project won Spodofora the National Presidential Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Award, presented by the late President George Bush at the White House in 1990.

“Every time I drive by that lake and see people swimming in it, it just lifts my heart,” he said.

Spodofora’s other major project continues with the theme of environmental improvement: stormwater management design.

This project was done prior to becoming an elected official, he said.

“There was a development they wanted to build by my house, they wanted to put condos and all this other stuff,” he said.

“I said ‘No, you can’t do that it’s too wet, there’s nowhere for the stormwater to go’.”

He then took it upon himself to study the topic on his own time and come up with the solution of “underground recharge.”

“Our whole neighborhood got together and we fought it and we won, and in that process I learned a lot about stormwater management,” he said.

Spodofora was motivated to get involved because of his “there’s a better way of doing things” perspective. “You learn real quick that it [running a town] is a combination of quality of life issues and fiscal issues.”

Rather than letting underground water tables be infiltrated by salt water from the nearby bays and oceans, Spodofora’s solution was to maintain the groundwater level “to keep salt water from going into our municipal wells, so why not recharge it back into the ground as it would’ve been prior to development.”

Remember phytoremediation? Well, it also plays an important role in Stafford Township, keeping the groundwater clean by absorbing toxins from the soil, he added.

Spodofora’s stormwater management innovation won him the EPA National Award of Engineering Excellence in 1994, which later became the basis for the national standards, he added.

What’s Next?

“I look at things differently and I observe certain ways of making things better,” he said.

However, he won’t be able to effect such change from the dais much longer.

Spodofora noted that he wishes he had more time to work on some of his most difficult tasks, such as building berms to prevent flooding. After Hurricane Sandy, an admittedly challenging time for him, Spodofora noted that the addition of berms would be really helpful in the event of another major flooding incident.

He also said that he is “very proud of our open space,” and hoped to work on further improving Stafford’s utilization of open space. According to Spodofora, 70 percent of the township is dedicated to open space.

On leaving, he admitted “it’s mixed feelings, I’m kind of ready to take a different path and yet, I’ll miss what I’m doing greatly.”

Spodofora, an avid Theodore Roosevelt fan, added that at each job he’s worked, he has been guided by the Teddy Roosevelt quote: “Far better is it to dare mighty things, (Service - See Page 14)

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

No Excuse For Delaying Protection Of Property Tax Exemptions For Vets Coping With Natural Disasters CAPITOL COMMENTS 9th Legislative District Senator Christopher J. Connors • Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf • Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove

TRENTON – Senator Christopher J. Connors, Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf and Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove (all R-9th) are calling for action on their bill to protect tax exempt status of property owned by a 100 percent disabled veteran whose home

has been destroyed by flood, storm event, natural cause, or other act of God. The 9th District Delegation’s bipartisan-supported bill, S-900, passed the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee in late March of this year but has yet

to be considered by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee. The Assembly version of the bill, A-714, is still awaiting action by the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

“Under current law, 100 percent disabled veterans claim a full local property tax exemption on their primary home. Regretfully, it became apparent after Superstorm Sandy that the law does not protect the veteran’s exemption in the event of a natural disaster if the property is no longer useable as the owner’s

residence.

“In what should be an easy and obvious fix, our delegation introduced this bill to continue the veterans’ property tax exempt status enjoyed before the destruction of their home, so long as substantial, ongoing construction is undertaken within a specified period of time.

“Veterans who served our nation, especially those who are 100 percent disabled, should be afforded the protection offered by our bill so as not to be victimized twice – first by having their home destroyed,

and then by incurring a financial hardship from the loss of a considerable form of tax relief.

“Time was certainly found to ramrod a string of tax increases through Budget Committees during this year’s state budget process, but not to consider our disabled veterans’ bill. Adding to the frustration is that our bill would have no fiscal impact on the state, because the veterans who would be affected by the legislation do not pay property taxes in the first place.

“Governor Murphy recently announced changes to Su-

perstorm Sandy Recovery Houses Programs in an effort to assist Sandy-impacted victims who are still experiencing bureaucratic obstacles.

Correcting this defect in the disabled veterans property tax exemption law, which stands as an insult to veterans, would be consistent with the newly rolled our Sandy victims assistance efforts.”

Members of the 9th District Delegation serve on both the Senate and Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.

Congress Approves “Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Frank A. LoBiondo (R-2nd), a senior member of the House Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, applauded Congress’ approval of S-140, the “Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018.”

The House passed the bill by voice vote. The Senate

approved the bill 94-6 prior to the Thanksgiving holiday.

“So few issues have been bipartisan across the board during my time in Congress but supporting the Coast Guard was always one of them. The men and women in the Coast Guard are always asked to do more with less – finally my colleagues have come around to giving our

Coasties more so they can continue their outstanding job,” said LoBiondo. “It is one of the truest honors of my life to have represented the Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May and Air Station Atlantic City for 24 years in Congress.”

A two-year authorization of the Coast Guard’s budget, the “Frank LoBiondo Coast

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As the dystrophy progresses, vision may seem blurred in the morning and sharper later in the day. Eventually, vision becomes continuously blurred. While Fuchs’ dystrophy cannot be cured, corneal swelling can be controlled with medication.

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Guard Authorization Act” authorizes $7.9 billion for operating expenses and $2.6 billion for construction, renovation and facilities improvement. It authorizes active duty of 43,009 personnel for Fiscal Year 2018 and 44,500 personnel for Fiscal Year 2019.

Additionally, the legislation: Authorizes up to $167 million for three new Fast Response Cutters; Authorizes Department of Homeland Security to enter into a multiyear contract to procure three National Security Cutters; and, Requires the Coast Guard to establish its own land-based unmanned aircraft system (UAS) program.

Furthermore, the legislation preserves jobs by providing important regulatory relief for New Jersey fishermen.

It eliminates the duplicative requirement that both the Coast Guard and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintain discharge requirements for commercial fishing vessels. Previously,

senseless and costly EPA regulations left fishermen on the hook for over $36,000 in daily fines if they fail to get a permit from the EPA to discharge such things as rain water runoff and air conditioner condensate from their vessels. Under this compromise, the EPA would set the vessel discharge standards while giving the Coast Guard the authority to prescribe and enforce regulations based on those standards. LoBiondo ensured a moratorium on imposing such fines on South Jersey commercial fishing operations remained intact for more than a decade as he worked on this compromise.

“Throughout my time on the Coast Guard subcommittee I have focused on strengthening our nation’s maritime sector, a critical source of jobs and economic output.

In South Jersey, commercial fishing operations have long been one of the leading employers, making Cape May the second-largest port by

C ORRECTION

In the Nov. 24 story “County Sets Record Election Results,” the Monmouth and Ocean county results for 2014 candidate Ruben Scolavino were accidentally switched, making it appear that 2018 candidate Joshua Welle performed more poorly than him in Ocean County. We regret the error. The text should read:

commercial value on the East Coast. This compromise ensures that the livelihoods of thousands of South Jersey fishermen are no longer threated by duplicative federal bureaucracy and conflicting arbitrary standards,” concluded LoBiondo.

A member of the House Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee for the past twenty-two of his twenty-four years in Congress, LoBiondo served as the Chairman, Vice Chair or Ranking Member for fourteen years.

“Naming this legislation for our retiring colleague, Frank LoBiondo, is an acknowledgement of his championship of the Coast Guard throughout his congressional career, including during his leadership of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee in five previous congresses,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (PA-9).

In 2014, Chris Smith received 36,888 of the votes in Ocean. His challenger, Ruben Scolavino, received 11,816. So, again, Smith received more than 20,000 votes this year than in the most comparable year, 2014. Welle’s vote total, 24,130, was twice that of the Democrat in 2014, and was more in line with the 2016 election.

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The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 9

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

–Photo courtesy Long Beach Township Police LONG BEACH ISLAND – A very happy LBI Grade School student received a ride to school today from Chief Anthony Deely, escorted by Motor Unit Sgt. Gary Gore and Ptl. Justin Hoffman. “Ride to school with the Police Chief” was a raffle prize at the LBI PTA’s recent fundraiser. Thanks to all involved!

“Will It Waffle?” Cooking Program For Teens Coming To LBI Library

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Long Beach Island Branch of the Ocean County Library will host “Will It Waffe?” at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 19.

Have you ever wondered what you could make into a waffle? Experiment with creative waffle iron recipes and answer the question, “Will it waffle?”

Recipes may contain potential allergens.

This program is for teens and tweens.

The branch is located at 217 S. Central Avenue, Surf City.

Registration is required for this free program. To register, call the branch at 609494-2480 or visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events.

22nd Anniversary Show WARETOWN – Visit Albert Music Hall for a live concert of bluegrass and country music by regional musicians from the tristate area on Jan. 5, 2019, 7:30-11 p.m. Celebrate our anniversary in Pinelands style.

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Tickets must be purchased at the door on the night of the show. Cost is $5. Doors open at 6 p.m. Music is 7:30 to 11 p.m.

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

Bus Trip To NJ Devils

LACEY – The Lacey Township Recreation Department is currently taking registration for a bus trip to the Prudential Center to see the New Jersey Devils face off against the Vancouver Canucks on New Year’s Eve, Monday December 31.

Our Recreation Bus will leave from the Gille Park Roller Hockey Rinks at 10:45 a.m. with faceoff in Newark slated for 1 p.m. Tickets for the game are $55 which includes bus transportation to and from the game as well as a game ticket in the 100 level in the arena. We are also offering half price food vouchers to be used at the Prudential Center, a voucher for $10

worth of food or beverages can be purchased for those attending the trip for just $5. A free gift will also be provided by the Devils for attending with our group.

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

If you have any questions, please contact the Lacey Township Recreation Department at 609-693–1100 ext. 2203.

Southern Regional Socktober Event

MANAHAWKIN – This year the Southern Regional School District spent the month of October participating in their third annual Socktober fundraiser. This fundraiser encourages students to donate new socks of all shape, size, and color to those that are less fortunate.

Through this fundraiser, students learn that socks are the most needed, but least donated article of clothing in homeless shelters. From October 1 through 31 boxes are dispersed and

socks are collected to donate to shelters around our area in New Jersey.

This year the students donated 2,145 pairs of brand new socks to four different shelters in Ocean County. The four shelters included, St. Francis, Harbor House, Family Promise, and The Lacey Food Bank. Another successful year of this fundraiser proves once again that Southern Regional takes pride in everything that they do.

Learn “What Is Kwanzaa?” At LBI Library

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Long Beach Island Branch of the Ocean County Library, 217 S. Central Avenue, Surf City will host “What Is Kwanzaa?” 2 p.m. Dec. 22.

Use your eyes, ears, hands, and taste buds to discover what Kwanzaa celebrates. Find out the meaning of the seven candles, what

colors represent this celebration, and where it originated.

This is a family-friendly program.

Registration is required for this free program. To register, call the branch at 609494-2480 or visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events.

Photography Exhibit By Frank Grasso At Barnegat Library In December

BARNEGAT – The Barnegat Branch of the Ocean County Library will host an exhibit by local photographer Frank Grasso throughout December.

Grasso is a retired carpenter living in Barnegat.

Most of his photos are taken in the Pinelands, some taken while kayaking on the Barnegat Bay

and other local rivers. Grasso also takes photos while hiking in various New Jersey state and county parks.

The branch is located at 112 Burr Street.

Registration is not required to view the exhibit.

For more information, call the branch at 609698-3331 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org.

SRHS Boys Soccer Award Recipients

MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations to our 2018 Southern Boys Soccer All-Division & All-County Awards Recipients: All “A” South Division: • Kevin Kiernan • Frank Ritchie All-County:

• Kevin Kiernan - 1st Team • Frank Ritchie - 2nd Team • Ben Hanneman - 3rd Team • Braden Dugan - 3rd Team Senior Frank Ritchie represented SRHS at the Ocean-Monmouth County Senior All Star Game on Nov. 26 at Capelli Sports Complex.

SRHS Teacher Chairs Convention

SUNROOMS • SCREENROOMS • CARPORTS DECKS • ALUMINUM ENCLOSURES

MANAHAWKIN – Southern Regional English Teacher, Katie Baker, was the Program Chair for the national convention event for the Conference on English Leadership (CEL) held in Houston, Texas. CEL is a constituent group of the National Council of Teachers of English that fosters a collaborative professional community dedicated to building the

leadership capacity of literacy education. As program chair, Katie was responsible for scheduling the entire conference, selecting and soliciting the keynote speaker, and organizing over fifty breakout sessions, which included topics under the categories of Instruction, Leadership, Professional Development, and Technology.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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–Photo courtesy Southern Regional Middle School MANAHAWKIN – Mr. Craig Dietz, the personification of grit, brought his message to the students of Southern Regional Middle School on November 21.

Mr. Dietz, born without limbs, personally interacted with the students as he shared his life accomplishments through stories, messages, video, and the display of his physical prowess in spite of his perceived limitations. Among Mr. Dietz’s accomplishments were his swim

across the Chesapeake Bay, hunting abilities, practice as a licensed attorney, skiing abilities, 8 mile swim in South Africa, and success in other areas too numerous to cite.

Students left with the realization that they hadn’t even begun to tap their own potential, that it was always too soon to quit, and that they should never permit anyone to define them. Mr. Dietz’s message resonates positivity and had infinite applicate life applications.

Holiday Show at Albert Music Hall

WARETOWN – The Pinelands Cultural Society presents its Holiday Show at Albert Music Hall, located at, 131 Wells Mills Road, Waretown, NJ. The program features a live stage concert of bluegrass, country, and traditional music by regional bands from the tristate area.

During the 8 p.m. musical set, Albert Hall’s singing Santa will a lead a Christmas sing-along with all the children as part of his band. Santa will have a gift for children 11 years and under.

Fun for all ages! Cameras are welcome.

Gifts and special holiday food may be purchased. No alcoholic beverages or smoking

allowed.

Admission is $5 for adults; free admission for children 11 and under.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The program begins at 7:30 p.m. and lasts until 11 p.m.

Appearing: Southern Specific, Santa & the Bluegrass Lovers, Custom Blend & Basement Musicians (subject to change).

All proceeds to benefit the Pinelands Cultural Society and the Albert Music Hall Scholarship Fund.

For information regarding the show, visit alberthall.org.

Polar Express Storytime At LBI Library

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Long Beach Island Branch of the Ocean County Library will host “All Aboard the Polar Express” at 11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 15.

Enjoy story time with the Conductor, a juggling lesson with the Chef, and singalong with the crew of this enchanted train. Guests may wear their favorite holiday pajamas and have milk

and cookies while waiting for a surprise visitor.

Snacks may contain potential allergens.

The branch is located at 217 S. Central Avenue, Surf City.

Registration for children is required for this free program. To register, call the branch at 609-494-2480 or visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events.

Deck The Walls Art Show

MANAHAWKIN – Deck the Walls is an art show that exhibits Pine Shores’ members work with a holiday theme in both paintings and

cards. Admission is free. The show will be held at the Pine Shores Art Association, 94 Stafford Avenue, on Dec. 9 from 1-3 p.m.

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 12, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

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Southern Regional’s Successful STYLE Program

MANAHAWKIN – Janelle Gosline, 6th grade ELA teacher at the LBI Elementary School, recently extoled her praise for STYLE Program at SRHS. Janelle was a member of the STYLE Program from 2004 – 2007. In a recent letter to the district, she discusses her continued involvement as an adult with her own students.

“My sixth grade students took part in a team building workshop presented by STYLE last Wednesday. The workshop itself only lasted about three hours, but the lessons learned will last the year and beyond. I watched my students grow as leaders, partners, and individuals literally before my eyes. During the first activity, the students were talking over each other, remained in small groups, and were struggling to come up with a plan. With the en-

couragement of Mr. Benson, Mrs. Bleam, and the student leaders, they were able to identify what was working and how to fix what was not. This change was evident in the activities that followed and throughout the morning. Finally, at the conclusion of the workshop, my students reflected on the morning. I was amazed as I listened to my students articulately express exactly what I hoped they would get out of the morning and more. Moving forward, I know that I can always remind my students of all they learned and have gained from the STYLE workshop.

As always, thank you for continuing the STYLE program at Southern Regional and for allowing these students to bring their talents to surrounding districts.”

Lacey In Lights

LACEY – The Lacey Township Recreation Department is proud to present Lacey in Lights once again in 2018! Lacey in Lights is a neighborhood holiday light competition and tour among the residents of Lacey Township.

Residents can register their holiday light display on a Google Form, located on the Lacey Recreation Facebook Page. Residents can also register at the Lacey Township Recreation Office. Residents must register their light display by December 7.

The Recreation Department will offer bus tours to view the displays from all of the finalists on Wednesday, December 19, Friday,

December 21, Saturday, December 22 and Friday, December 28 at 6 p.m. each night.

Tickets can be purchased at the Recreation Office for $1.

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

If you have any questions, contact the Lacey Township Recreation Department at 609-693 – 1100 ext. 2203.

Southern Regional Middle And High Schools Participate In FCCLA Leadership Conference

MANAHAWKIN – Students from the Southern Regional School District attended The FCCLA Fall Leadership Conference and were successful on the competitive side of the events. While at this event, the students participated in a statewide community service initiative to supply food to the Middlesex County Food Bank, and Hurricane Michael relief to Florida (through the sales of cupcakes).

Chelsea Olendar (junior SRHS) facilitated the meeting of 690 students along with the rest of the State Executive Committee. Brenae Ervin (freshman SRHS) facilitated a round table workshop on FCCLA’s Leadership Bootcamp.

Ten students from the middle school received medals and 12 students in the high school received medals.

New Year’s Eve Party For Families At LBI Library

LONG BEACH ISLAND – The Long Beach Island Branch of the Ocean County Library will host “Family New Year’s Eve Party” at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 31.

Get ready to ring in the New Year with crafts, noisemakers, and music. Enjoy a family friendly party complete with a countdown to

noon and a new year’s ball.

The branch is located at 217 S. Central Avenue, Surf City.

Registration for children is required for this free event. To register, call the branch at 609494-2480 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/ events.

Hoooo Could It Be?

TOMS RIVER – If you have ever been on a night hike, you know that it is a unique experience. Landmarks are less visible, and the sounds of the darkness are more vivid.

Join us at Cattus Island County Park for Hooo

Could it Be? on Jan. 4, 2019 from 6-8 p.m.

Use your ears to help discover owls that are in the park searching for a mate. Admission is free. Pre-Registration is required by calling 732-270-6960.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 13

Honor Micromedia’s Late Alice Swann With Charity Donation

By Kimberly Bosco In honor of the holiday season, the Micromedia family asks that you keep the Alice Swann Ovarian Cancer Memorial Fund in mind.

Alice Swann, wife of Stewart Swann, President/Publisher of Micromedia Publications, passed away on October 17, 2018 after a four and a half year battle with ovarian cancer. Alice was not only loved and cherished by her close family and friends, but also by her Micromedia family, having served as treasurer here for many years.

Alice and Stewart Swann’s daughter Chrissy Morrison is requesting that those who wish to participate in holiday giving this year do so in honor of her mother, Alice Swann.

Morrison said: “My mother, Alice Swann has been an integral part of Micromedia Publications for many years. Unfortunately, she lost her battle with Ovarian Cancer last month. As a Registered Nurse, I knew that day was coming, however, it came much sooner than I expected.

“Over the course of her illness, I watched my mother endure treatments that kept her in bed for weeks at a time. I spent countless hours in her home administering IV fluids, and medications just to keep her comfortable. My father, Stew Swann waited on her around the clock, because there were days she just couldn’t get out of bed. I can’t tell you how many times I had to drop everything to rush her to her Oncologist, or the Emergency Room due to the many side effects and issues she encountered during her treatments.

“Despite everything she went through, she did it all with grace. She continued putting her children and grandchildren ahead of herself when she was able. Even on the day of her death, she was asking for treatment, because she didn’t want to leave her kids.

I know in my heart she is in a much better place, and no longer suffering in agonizing pain, but nothing can take away the pain of losing your mother.

“I humbly ask you honor her memory with a donation to the Alice Swann Ovarian Cancer Memorial Fund, so others may not have to suffer the same fate as my mother.”

Donations to the Alice Swann Ovarian Cancer Memorial Fund can be made at facebook.com/ donate/1354107554730127/10218472597581305/. Monies raised will go to Levine Cancer Institute.

Staff Stories At Cattus Island

TOMS RIVER – The Cooper Environmental Center at Cattus Island County Park is offering a power point and lecture series during the cold days of winter. Come inside and join a park naturalist for a themed presentation.

• January 17 - Cattus Island Versus Superstorm Sandy • February 14 - Birds of Ocean County • March 14 - Bountiful Butterflies Admission is free. Programs are from 1-2 p.m.

Titanic And Halifax, Nova Scotia

TOMS RIVER – You’ve heard about the Titanic’s sinking in the North Atlantic in mid-April of 1912. But did you know the role the city of Halifax, Nova Scotia played in the retrieval process?

Come to the Ocean County Historical Society on Jan. 20, 2-4 p.m., to hear researcher Sandra Gray, a Forked River resident, share

the personal stories and other intriguing facts she has discovered during visits to Halifax.

Refreshments will be served. In case of snow, the program will be rescheduled for January 27, same time and place. No admission fee, but donations will be accepted.

For more information, contact 732-341-1880.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

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to win glorious triumphs, even checkered by failure…than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much or suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory or defeat.”

The quote sits as a framed reminder in his office of his mission to “dare mighty things.”

While he does boast various awards and acknowledgements for his public service achievements, Spodofora maintains that he does everything out of a love for Stafford and its residents.

“I love the town and I love the people here,” he said, and he has no plans on leaving any time soon.

With plans to become an active volunteer with the Barnegat Bay Commission, Spodofora won’t be disappearing from civil service altogether.

Stafford’s new mayor Gregory Myhre and his Stafford Conservatives are now ready and waiting to take their seats on the dais. Spodofora hopes that “they continue on with what we’ve been doing, yet I want them to…[develop] new ways of looking at things…and I want them to always balance quality of life,” with fiscal responsibility.

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By Kimberly Bosco BERKELEY – Imagine this: you’re taking your morning walk along the beach when you come across a giant tuna in the sand! That’s what happened this morning to a lucky group of surfcasters at Island Beach State Park.

The large tuna was posted and shared to social media on the morning of Dec. 4 by Gabriel Tackle Company of Brick. The

discovery was made by DJ Muller, friend of the tackle shop.

The post read: “Can you imagine catching this off the surf!!! Tuna found on the beach this morning at IBSP. Thanks for the pics DJ” It’s not every day that you find a tuna so large wash up onto the Jersey shore. Gabriel Tackle Company reported that only the one fish was found.

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Connect With the

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 15

Record:

Continued From Page 1 Sempkowski said. “However, our expectation was to win the conference championship.

We knew we were an improved team from last year just from the fact we did not have any seniors in 2017. Our team at minimum was a year more experienced in addition to the hard work everyone put in and some key additions through recruitment.”

Earlier this season, the Lions topped host Post 3-0.

“I am not sure I would say we under achieved,” Sempkowski said. “We just did not win the biggest matches when we needed to.”

Sempkowski said this year’s team was strong in several phases of the sport.

“Passing and defense were the keys as well as balancing our offense out,” he said. “We were an extremely well-rounded team that hoped to run all of its hitters as opposed to focusing on either one or two hitters. Passing and ball control helped us do that. The team worked hard.”

The Lions’ 5-foot-10 Amy Bruno, a junior right side hitter-middle blocker from Barnegat High School, earned first team all-conference honors. She was fifth on the Lions in points with 224 and added 170 kills, 80 blocks and 16 digs.

“Amy comes into every volleyball season in the best shape of her life,” Sempkowski said.

“She is physically among the most dominant athletes on the floor in every match. She had some knee and shoulder issues, mostly tendinitis, as well for 2018. Both were minimal issues this year because of all of the rehabilitation work she did all year. Blocking and hitting are

always Amy’s strong points.

“Amy is on the quiet side. She is someone who is a doer as opposed to talking about it.”

Sempkowski said he saw Bruno compete at the club and high school levels.

“We felt her physicality would translate to our level (NCAA Division II),” he said. “Fortunately, we were correct. She was recruited to play right side, but filled in at middle blocker due to the team’s need in 2017. She had such a great year that we kept her there for 2018.

We hope Amy continues to improve on her consistency as well as in the flexibility to play multiple positions.”

Shana Rayside, a 6-foot-1 junior right side hitter from Lakewood, paced the Lions in blocks (81) and was second on the team in kills (244). She added 49 digs and was third on the team in points with 290. She scored 10 kills in the semifinals.

“Shana took the biggest jump forward of any of our returning athletes,” said Sempkowski, a former Ramapo College men’s standout and ex-assistant men’s coach at the NCAA Division III school. “On the court, she became much more consistent and helped us win many games. Off the court, she stepped up and took a role in our leadership core. Hitting and blocking are her strong points. She was the leading blocker in our conference at her position.

“Shana came into this year in the best shape of her life. Her on the court experience is really starting to take over. We expect her to be the best right side in the conference in 2019.”

Former Toms River East player Jaime Sweeney, a 5-foot-6 sophomore setter, was second in the CACC with 336 assists and added 151 digs.

She handed out 15 assists in the semifinals.

“Her setting abilities helped us to run our offense and have as much success as we did,” Sempkowski said. “Whether she was either starting or coming off the bench, she did a great job of bringing some consistency to the team and the offense. Her experience and being around the program certainly helped.”

Senior outside hitter-right side hitter Jessica Sipili, a Lakewood resident who played for Monsignor Donovan (now Donovan Catholic), posted 11 kills and 26 digs. She’s 5-foot-10.

“Jessica was a returning captain and one of the biggest leaders in our leadership core,” Sempkowski said. “She is also one of our brightest athletes who truly gets the job done in the classroom. She is simply a role model in everything she does.”

Sophomore outside hitter Aubrey Binkley, a Toms River North product, was third on the team in digs (249) and kills (241) and second on the club in points (309 1/2). She added 21 assists. The 5-foot-10 Binkley notched 10 kills in the semifinals.

“Aubrey is an all-around strong athlete who rarely gets rattled by the situation,” Sempkowski said. “When she is on, she helps us win in every way. When one aspect of her game is off, she still helps us win by being able to do so much more - hitting, blocking, passing, defense and serving tough. She played in 114 sets this year because she can simply help us in so many ways. She took a bigger role on the offensive side this year than she did last year.”

Senior outside hitter-right side hitter Peggy Rosario, who hails from Puerto Rico, was an all-conference second-team selection. She paced the Lions in points (356), kills (298) and digs (255) and added 15 blocks. She led

the Lions in kills each season. She’s 5-foot-10.

“Her on the court contributions cannot be ignored,” Sempkowski said. “She ended her career among our statistical leaders in kills, digs and aces. She was in great shape this year. She clearly worked hard all summer. Her consistency improved this year.”

The team’s captains were Rosario, Sipili, Rayside, Binkley and freshman Grace Fenn, a 6-foot middle blocker-right side from Phoenix, Az. “We ran a leadership core which was a little different, but with the hope of building more leaders for future teams,” Sempkowski said.

While on the recruiting trail, Sempowski looks for several qualities in athletes.

“The obvious things are the player’s volleyball skills, potential and general athletic abilities,” he said. “Other important pieces to us are strong academics, leadership qualities and other off the court intangibles. At the end of the day, we want athletes who love volleyball. Few people love early morning workouts, but if you love volleyball and see where those workouts will take you, then you’ll have on the court success and volleyball won’t seem like a job when you get to college.

“In general, the team consists of a great group of athletes who come into the gym to work hard every day. They love volleyball and love winning.”

The assistant coach is Jason Ulrich, who completed his sixth season. The former Brick Township athlete began the Jackson Memorial girls team and coaches the Jaguars’ boys team.

“He has turned the boys team into a Shore Conference top four team,” Sempkowski said.

“His love of volleyball helps all of his athletes.”

SAVE THE DATE! Tuesday, December 18th

Please RSVP: 609-698-1400 859 W. Bay Ave., Barnegat NJ 08005

OPEN HOUSE Barnegat Rehabilitation and Nursing Center invites you to join us on

Tuesday, December 18th • 4pm to 7pm for a very special Grand Re-Opening Winter Wonderland Open House We hope you will join us and get to know our team! We look forward to answering any questions you may have about Sub-Acute Rehab and Long-Term Care Services.

EVENT WILL INCLUDE: Light Refreshments • Hot Cocoa Bar • Vacation Give-A-Way Raffle

Tour Our Newly Renovated Rehab Department!

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 16, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

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

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

Keeping You Informed: Over-the-Counter Devices

With last summer’s passage of the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017, you may wonder how it affects your health care. As an AudigyCertified™ practice, we consider patient education an important part of delivering excellent service, so count on us for timely news to support your hearing wellness.

What does the law do? The legislation, part of the Food and Drug Administration Reauthorization Act, will allow the retail sale of hearing aids for adults with self-perceived mild to moderate hearing loss — without the crucial involvement of an audiologist or medical doctor.

When will I see its impact? Over-thecounter (OTC) hearing technology is at most a few years from being publicly available until federal regulations for safety, labeling, and manufacturing are developed.

What are the pros of this change? The law could help expand consumer access to hearing technology, motivate even more people to seek hearing help, and inspire more technical innovations that benefit patients.

What are the cons? Access to hearing health care is vital, but the law unfortunately will enable self-treatment for a serious physical condition that trained, licensed professionals are more suited to evaluate, diagnose, and treat.

Aren’t OTC hearing devices already available? You may be thinking of personal sound amplification products (PSAPs), which are wearable electronic devices used for activities such as bird-watching or TV-viewing to make a sound louder — not to take the place of properly fit hearing aids.

What’s the difference between OTC devices and PSAPs? Currently avail-

able PSAPs are neither FDA-approved nor recommended to treat actual hearing loss. OTC hearing technology will be FDA-regulated but won’t be available for a while.

Once available on the market, will OTCs address my hearing needs? Hearing loss is often an inner-ear problem, but sometimes it’s a different issue such as earwax buildup, a foreign object in the ear canal, or an ear infection that may cause temporary hearing difficulty. A PSAP or OTC won’t tackle these types of underlying problems.

What else should I know about OTCs? OTCs will address only mild to moderate hearing loss, and even then, noise processing will be far less than a traditional hearing aid. They won’t always offer a successful fit and may be less specific for your situation.

What’s the benefit of choosing provider-fit hearing aids instead? Unlike OTCs and PSAPs, provider-fit hearing aids can address the full spectrum of hearing impairment from mild to profound. They’re already FDA-approved, are recommended to treat hearing loss, and can adjust to environmental variables such as background noise as well as help your brain process sound.

Self-treating hearing loss might seem convenient, but it can do more harm than good. Professional care — including testing, programming, fitting, and follow-up — helps you get to the bottom of your hearing difficulties and secure the right solution for your communication needs.

If you have questions about OTC hearing technology, signs and symptoms of hearing loss, or the dangers of self-treating hearing problems, call us today at 732-276-1011 we’re here to help!

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 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Expanded Whiting Hours!

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 17

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

Why Your Thyroid Still Bothers You

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. If there’s one thing I’m sensitive to, it’s an incorrect diagnosis. You probably are too. I bet many of you reading this today have spent lots of money over the years, trying to address all the incorrect diagnoses that well-meaning physicians arbitrarily assigned to you.

Today’s article is about thyroid because it gets misdiagnosed probably 1000 times a day or more! Perhaps you’ve been told you have depression, bipolar, heart disease, anxiety, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic UTIs or Raynaud’s phenomenon. What if I told you all these problems could stem from undiagnosed hypothyroidism. And your labs will show up as normal.

Take “Beth” for example. She told her physician about her sudden irrational fears, and mild anxiety about things that never used to bother her before. It was weird for her to suddenly feel this mentally unsettled, and at times shaky.

Her physician in Connecticut talked to her for 10 minutes then ordered Alprazolam to be taken throughout the day. This medication is in the category of “benzodiazepines,” and it is a popular anti-anxiety and sleep medication. The problem I have with this is two-fold: • Why would any doctor prescribe an addictive drug as the first line agent?

These drugs have the capacity to change your brain in scary ways over time by down-regulating GABA receptors. Why bring the big guns out right away when something more benign could be tried first?

• Why didn’t he test her for Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism, when anxiety is often

one of the first symptoms? Other symptoms include constipation, dry skin, hair loss, brain fog, and feeling constantly cold. Sudden unexplained anxiety, bipolar or odd mood swings could be a tell-tale sign of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which is exactly what Beth had. It was uncovered 2 years later.

Missing the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s could mean that you continue to feel awful. Not getting the right treatment will cause the crumbling of your job, relationships, financial security (conventional medical labs and treatments are not cheap) and while hard to measure, your personal self-esteem.

Doctors shouldn’t shoot in the dark. I am worried you’re getting heavily medicated with mind-bending drugs, like Beth is, instead of getting simple thyroid hormone to replace what’s missing! Did you know that thyroid hormone declines naturally with age, just like our estrogen and testosterone? Your lab results cannot be trusted.

There are many reasons that your thyroid might be bothering you, and your doctor won’t catch it. The number one reason is that thyroid hormone may be locked outside the cell. It has to get inside your cell to help you. Also, conversion rates to activated T3 go down with stress, pregnancy and grief. Would you like to know all of the reasons? If so, I’ll share a free copy of my ebook: “THYROID - 5 Reasons You Don’t Get Well”. I also wrote a food guide for people with Hashimoto’s called “Hashi No No’s.” Just email me at ScriptEssentials@suzycohen.com and specify which ebook(s) you would like.

(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.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 18, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

Dear Joel Hot Or Cold?

Dear Joel, I like the bedroom nice and toasty but it seems like I married Frosty the Snowman. The minute I fall asleep he turns off the heat and I wake up with my teeth chattering. I’m sure there must be other winter/ summer couples out there, any good solutions?

Answer Well the original answer would have been to move to a different bedroom until the ice melts, but thanks to today’s technology, there are a few more options. Try getting a smart thermostat installed and set the heat on a timer. This way he can have it cold from midnight until an hour before you get up. Then you can add an electric blanket for the

By Joel Markel

middle of the night. If that doesn’t work, try a temperature compromise. You go down five degrees and he moves up five degrees. You can add the electric blanket and he can sleep with just a sheet with a fan nearby for when he overheats. Disagreements like these seem like little things, but they can get both parties to the boiling point quickly so try to keep a cool head and a warm heart.

Write to joel@preferredcares.com.

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

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

Volunteer Opportunity

OCEAN COUNTY – Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers who can help wrap gifts at Boscov’s for donations from shoppers.

The date & shift is Saturday, Dec. 15 3-5 p.m. and 5-7 p.m.

Please call 732-908-4211 or email development@nohfh.com if you are interested.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 19

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

RESTAURANT • BAR • CATERING 547 N Main Street (Rt. 9) Barnegat • 609-607-0707

Inside The Law Congratulations!

You Have Just Won The Lottery...Or Have You?

Robert C. Shea Esq.

By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

Today’s world is filled with scams.

It’s becoming harder and harder to trust anyone.

A new assault on victims is in the for m of L ot t e r y a nd Swe e p st a ke scams. These scams are becoming more and more common. They may come to you from social media, phone calls, mailings, e-mail and text messages-all saying that you have won money or prizes. The scammers may even try to impersonate public figures, police, FBI, Lottery and Officials. To make matters worse, they have also mastered the art of cloning otherwise legitimate web sites and social media profiles. So how do you know if your winnings are legitimate?

Scammers like to ask for up-front payment, such as taxes, processing fees, delivery fees, legal fees or customer fees to collect your “winnings.”

Any payment requested in advance should be a red f lag!

The most common up-front payment request is a monetary transfer, because these are like cash. Other up-front payment schemes that are becoming popular include prepaid cards and iTunes gift cards because the scammers can access your balance if you give them the number from the back of the card or a PIN over the phone.

Scammers may also ask that you send cash in the mail. Once you give them cash they are likely to ask for more and more. One trick the scammers

use to entice victims Michael J. Deem to send more money is to claim that there is a larger jackpot at stake or that there was some error or problem that ca n on ly be solved with more money. The scammers may even threaten violence.

Never give these strangers your personal information. Don’t give them your banking information or credit c a rd i n for m at ion . T he s c a m me r s will use this infor mation to make unauthorized charges to your credit card or access your bank account.

The scammers can also sell your private information to other scammers.

Some victims are asked to deposit fake checks and if that check bounces the victim will be responsible for the bounced check fee.

If you have fallen victim to a scam you may be able to stop the damage.

Report the matter to your financial institution, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, Local Police, the State Attorney General, The Federal Trade Commission and the US Postal Inspection Service.

The litigation attorneys at the Law Offices of R.C. Shea & Associates handle most consumer fraud claims on a contingency basis. A contingency means if there is no recovery, there is no fee. Call us for a free consultation: 732-505-1212.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Sonic employees 8 Shrinking section at Barnes & Noble 11 Bit of wit 14 Anatomical rings in irises 15 Earth-moving tool 16 Reproductive cells 17 Fishing spot for vacationing Londoners?

19 Upset, with “over” 20 Legwear for air travelers?

22 Ruff stuff 25 Lacking 26 Not quite right 30 Until now 33 P replacers, in some lineups 34 Woman’s name meaning “white” 38 Smooth, perhaps 39 Retirement party remark ... or a homophonic hint to four long Across answers

42 Epps of “House” 43 Computer conveniences 44 [That’s kinda funny] 45 Sylvester’s genus 47 Radius, e.g.

49 “The Great Escape” setting 53 Lots 54 007 returning from assignment?

59 “... __ quit!”

60 Vacant look?

64 Toondom’s Phineas, to Ferb 65 Strauss’ “__ Heldenleben” 66 Like the edges of some mirrors 67 Dodge City-to-Topeka dir.

68 Mining supply 69 Talked big Down 1 Waiter at a stand 2 LAX stat

3 Bonn : Kšnig :: Lisbon : __ 4 Place of rapid growth 5 Miscellany 6 “ÀQuŽ __?”

7 Very, in Vienna 8 “Carmina Burana” performers 9 “It tolls for thee” poet 10 Wetlands grasses 11 Beat the buzzer, say 12 National alternative 13 Show wonder 18 Email attachment 21 Court action 22 After “Our” and with 54-Down, title for the Virgin Mary based on an 1871 apparition 23 Where many strikes are called 24 Subtle come-on, perhaps 27 Geisha accessory 28 Thin coating 29 WWII White House dog

31 Johnson & Johnson brand 32 Hard-working “little” folk tale critter 35 “30 Rock” network 36 Michael of “Arrested Development” 37 __ vincit omnia 40 Work on a novel 41 System of thought 46 Carpenter’s array 48 Access requirements 50 Forum language 51 “__ you done yet?”

52 E. Berlin’s land 54 See 22-Down 55 African city on the Mediterranean 56 Romaine relative 57 Muffin go-with 58 St. Petersburg’s river 61 Space bar neighbor 62 What’s found in central Arizona?

63 Byrnes of ‘50s-’60s TV

(c)2018 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

UNFIT RIGOR SEWAGE NOTION - RING TRUE

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 21

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) Meetings

OCEAN COUNTY – As the holiday season approaches, are you one of those people who feel left out of the festivities? You are not alone. Many of us who deal with mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, feel the same way. You do not have to suffer alone.

There are two mental health support groups that meet in Ocean County that can provide support for you during this time,

and throughout the year.

The Jackson group meets at the Brighter Days Community Wellness Center (CWC) located at 268 Bennetts Mills Road, Jackson, NJ 08527 on Wednesday afternoons, year-round, at 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.

The Toms River group meets at the Community Medical Center, 99 Route 37 and Hospital Drive, Auditorium C, Toms River, NJ 08755 on Wednesday and Friday eve-

tirely voluntary group with no registration required, or payment of dues or fees, but we do accept a small voluntary donation.

For more information, call Maureen at 732-536-5826.

DBSA Jackson is led by its members, who have similar mental health issues; and have had special training on how to lead groups.

If you have questions, call Maureen at 732-536-5826.

nings, year-round, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

DBSA is a national and NJ state-wide, non-profit, tax-free, 501(c)3 charitable corporation, whose mission is to help, support, educate, and improve the lives of people who have mood disorders.

If you suffer from mood disorders, we welcome you to attend our group. Those who have a family member or friend with these issues are also welcome. It is an en-

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate

Help 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)

Part Time Food Service - We have an immediate need for Part Time Waitstaff/Servers AM and PM shifts available, Dietary Aides, PT Dishwashers. We are a well established retirement/healthcare community located in Whiting. We offer competitive pay. Under the direction of great Food Service leadership team, you will be working in an environment where you get the support and training needed to grow in your culinary career. The Pines offers an open door policy and Senior Leadership is always available and visible to our employees every day. Rate of pay starts at $9.00/ hr. Apply in Person to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@thepinesatwhiting.org. (50)

Manchester - 2 bedroom mobile home. 55+. Gym, clubhouse. 20 minutes from Seaside. $6,000. 732350-8685, 973-670-8325 (2)

For Rent Village SRV - Condo to share. Women 40 to 70. With job. $600/month ser.

Good credit. 732-662-1291.

(50) Small One Person Apartment In Beachwood - Quiet private home, quiet neighborhood. Call for details. 732-341-7009.

(50) Flexible Space For Rent - Prime location. Plenty of parking. GSCB Plaza, 340 Route 9 Bayville, NJ. Call Ed 973-886-0053.

(1)

Auto For Sale For Sale By Original Owner - 2008 Toyota Avalon LTD 4 door Sedan 135,000 miles, $7,500, Fully loaded with sliding sun roof, pearl white/ tan leather interior/tan carriage roof, brand new tires. Current full inspection writeup by original dealer, has 2020 inspection sticker. 732-270-3966. (51)

Items For Sale Plot - For Sale Ocean County Memorial Park Cemetery Plot. $1,200.

Must be Veteran or spouse will pay transfer fees. 732-773-1429.

(51)

Items Wanted COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot.

5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n) $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid.

Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713.

(51) 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)

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

Call Dave 732-657-4421.

(47) 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) Certified Home Health Aides Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n) Now Hiring - CNA’S, CHHA’S, LPN’S. Weekly pay. Numerous cases throughout Ocean Count y. M a k e y o u r o w n s c h e d u l e FT/PT. 732-288-1600.

(2) Low Voltage Technician - Familiar with card access, CCTV systems, key pad and panel installation, door closures, security cameras. Please send resume to SSpies.alu@gmail.com.

(1) Now Hiring Property Managers FT/PT in your area. Full, free training provided. msangelabove@comcast. net. 732-766-0425, ask for Mel. (1)

Services

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)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725.

(5)

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)

Handyman - All masonry work, repairs, sidewalks, paving, stone, decorative stone. Call Andy 848299-7412. Free estimates.

(2)

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

Tony/Owner 732-678-7584. (t/n) Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonary, repairs large and small. 40 years experience. 732-674-3346. (50) 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) Removal Service and More - We Haul It All! Yard waste, household junk, trees/shrubs, furniture, appliances, metals, construction debris, concrete, dirt/sand and stone. Also specializing in Landscaping, masonry and all fields of construction. Serving Ocean County area. Call now! 732-998-4725. (1) 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)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

2.

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

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

Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

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

(40)

Calculate Price As Follows: 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

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

Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)

2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

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) All In 1 General Contracting-Handyman Services - All phases of Interior and Exterior Repair, Improvements, Renovations, Construction for Home or Business. Carpentry, Painting, Roofing, Siding, Gutters, Lighting, Windows/Doors, Kitchens, Baths, Finish Basements, Flooring, Decks, Handicap ramps, Sheds installed/ repaired, etc.#1 Contractor for Banks, Real Estate Agency’s, Real Estate Investors, Home Inspection report repairs. From A-Z, big or small, we do it all. Skip the rest, come to the best!

Senior and Veteran Discount. $ave Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured.

License # 13VH06203500.

(52)

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

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

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 23

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

A

Garden State Hearing And Balance Center

com m it ment to pa- Kirsh said. tients, coupled with Hearing loss, unfortunately, technology and value often goes untreated since it is have set Garden State Hearing not painful and often not a pri& Balance Center apart for ority for patients. But for the years, with recent investments 40 million people who suffer making the treatment of hear- from it, Dr. Kirsh explains, ing loss and similar conditions it is important that they seek more manageable than ever. diagnosis and t reatment to T he pr act ice, wh ich ha s improve their life and ensure offices in Toms River, Mana- good health. hawkin and Whiting, was the “Over the last few years, first in the United States to there have been a lot of studbe Audigy-Certified, a testa- ies that show a relationship ment to its adherence to the bet ween u nt reated hear ing industry’s best practices that loss and memory deficits such are required for certification. as dementia and Alzheimer’s, “Any business that is Au- which means you r suscepdigy-Certif ied, from a best t ibilit y to obt ai n i ng t hese practices standpoint, is in the memory issues increases as top t wo to a function of “We don’t over three percent t he hea r i ng in the counloss that you schedule or double try,” said Dr. h a v e ,” D r . book, so people are Isidore Kirsh said. generally seen on time.” Kirsh – commonly Wit h r a re –Dr. Kirsh known as Dr. exception, Izzy – foundthe only way er and director of the practice, to help preserve your hearing who holds a doctorate degree is th rough a hear ing aid – (Ph.D.) from the Union Insti- sometimes a stumbling block tute & University. for patients who are self-conThe Center performs testing scious about wearing one. But for patients with auditory pro- technological improvements cessing disorders and testing have led to the devices becomfor people who are suffering ing vir tually invisible, and from tinnitus – ringing in the more helpful than ever. ears – as well as hearing loss “They can be 100 percent and balance issues. invisible, they can have BlueDr. Kirsh’s practice includes tooth as well as Wi-Fi capastate-of-the art equipment to bilities,” Dr. Kirsh explained. evaluate hearing and balance “ You ca n st r e a m a sig n a l issues, which are often related through your iPhone or your to inner ear disorders. television, even movies and “Seventy percent of patients Broa dway shows, r ig ht t o wh o c o m pl a i n of b a l a n c e you r hea r i ng aid. Most of proble m s u s u a l ly h ave a n today’s hearing aids are very i n ner ear component,” Dr. inconspicuous, meaning the

Pictured is Dr. Isidore Kirsh.

His offices are located at 250 Route 37 West, Toms River, 732573-4020; 53 Nautilus Drive, Suite C, 1st Floor, Manahawkin, 609-489-5415; 75 Lacey Road Ste 1B, Whiting, 732-606-4912.

Visit gardenstatehearing.com for more information.

cosmetic issue is really not an issue anymore.”

Hearing aids also can have features such as GPS locator capability.

“The technology is improving significantly every year,” Dr. Kirsh said.

For patients, hearing aids can be financed interest free for 24 months, and Dr. Kirsh’s practice provides free battery replacements for life. Patients can also return a hearing aid during a 75 day trial period, during which time they return to Garden State Hearing &

Balance Center a minimum of three times to check on their progress.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time,” said Dr. Kirsh.

The practice has th r ived on accessibility for patients, investments in technology, and the easing of the financial aspect of treatment.

“We try to give people as much value as possible, and

that really separates us from some of the other hearing care professionals out there,” Better hearing is a priceless gift!

Dr. Kirsh said.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 24, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

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Court: Some Alcohol Breath Tests Inadmissable As Evidence

By Jennifer Peacock She didn’t live to see her case settled, but her fight may now benefit 20,667 people whose Alcotests may have falsely tested positive.

After learning that the equipment for her breath test was not properly calibrated, Eileen Cassidy, who pleaded guilty in Spring Lake municipal court on Sept. 8, 2016 solely based on that test showing her driving above the legal limit, sought to have her guilty plea withdrawn.

The Alcotests were supposed to be calibrated twice a year using a rigorous process to ensure their accuracy. Marc W. Dennis, a coordinator in the New Jersey State Police’s Alcohol Drug Testing Unit, performed those semi-annual calibrations for tests used in Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties. The tests should have been calibrated using a thermometer that produces temperature measurements traceable to the standards set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Dennis was indicted back in December 2016 (and was charged Sept. 19) for not properly calibrating the tests and falsifying his reports “as if he has properly performed the procedure,” the indictment said. The State reportedly knew about the issue with the falsification of records nearly a year before

defendants, including Cassidy, were notified.

She sought to have her guilty plea vacated Sept. 26, 2016.

“The Court orders the State to notify all affected defendants of its decision that breath test results produced by Alcotest machines not calibrated using a NIST-traceable thermometer are inadmissible and commends to the State that it require the manual recording of the NIST traceable readings going forward,” stated the Nov. 13 decision, written

by Justice Walter F. Timpone. “Further, the Court lifts the stay on all pending cases so that deliberations may commence on whether and how those cases should proceed. For those cases already decided, affected defendants may now seek appropriate relief. Because the State waited approximately a year to notify the affected defendants, we relax the five-year time bar, R. 7:10-2(b)(2), in the interests of 20 justice. We ask the Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts to monitor these cases and recommend how best to administer them in the event any special measures are needed.”

Cassidy died in March 2018. Her case was argued in September and decided Tuesday.

“Finally, as to defendant Cassidy, we exercise our original jurisdiction and vacate her conviction,” Timpone wrote.

Crisis Hotline Volunteers Needed

OCEAN COUNTY – Crisis Hotline Volunteers needed for CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties’ training beginning Thursday, January 17, 2019, once a week for 12 weeks from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Training will be held at The Chelsea in Brick. CONTACT is a 24-hour crisis intervention hotline that

also provides information & referral to community resources. All calls are free, confidential and anonymous. Training is free. Become A Voice To Those In Distress-Make a difference in your community! Call 732-240-6104 for additional information and registration.

Ocean County Library Holiday Closings Schedule TOMS RIVER – All branches of the Ocean County Library will be closed Dec. 24 and Dec. 25. They will reopen their normal business hours Dec. 26.

All branches will close at 5 p.m. Dec. 31.

All branches will be closed Jan. 1, 2019. All branches will reopen Jan. 2.

ATTENTION

COACHES!

Want to let everyone know your team’s schedule for the season?

Want to let everyone know of your players’ successes and milestones?

SEND IT IN TO THIS PAPER & BE SEEN! CALL 732.657.7344

We encourage our customers to use the library’s online resources including databases, ebooks, emagazines, and online classes which are available through theoceancountylibrary.org.

For more information, visit theoceancounty library.org or call 732-349-6200.

OCEAN COUNTY NJ ONLINE

Your Gateway Resource to Ocean County NJ Information

♦ Ocean County Events ♦ Community Information ♦ Business Listings

www.OceanCountyNJOnline.com

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The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 25

Recreational Marijuana Legalization Takes Step Forward

By Chris Lundy TRENTON – A bill that would legalize recreational marijuana use for adults passed the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee today and will now be voted on by the full Senate.

The bill, S-2703, would legalize adults 21 and older to use limited amounts of the drug, and would also expunge some past convictions.

The bill was approved 7-4, with two abstentions, according to a press release from the state Democrats. Gov. Phil Murphy had made legalization a campaign promise, and Senate President Steve Sweeney had co-sponsored the bill. The two Democrats had disagreed on the details of how legalization would work.

“Marijuana is already being sold and used but it is the dealers who are running the drug trade and they are selling marijuana that is sometimes laced with other products,” Sweeney said in a press release. “We developed a plan that will put in place rules and regulations that allow for adult use cannabis in a responsible way. As a regulated product, legal marijuana will be safe and controlled.”

The bill is expected to be voted upon by the full Senate on Dec. 17.

Details of the Bill Under the bill, if it is enacted as is, the following details will be made into law: • It will be legal for adults 21 and older to have up to one ounce of marijuana, up to 16 ounces of it infused in solid form, up to 72 ounces in

liquid form, or up to seven grams of concentrate.

• Possession of more than one ounce will result in a $50 civil penalty, not a criminal prosecution.

• People who were previously convicted could have their record expunged.

• Impact zones would be established in towns that rank in the top 15 percent in unemployment, bottom 33 percent in medium income, and have a certain crime index: Atlantic City, Bridgeton, Camden, East Orange, Hamilton Twp, Irvington, Newark, Millville, Passaic, Paterson, Perth Amboy, Plainfield, Trenton, Vineland, Elizabeth and Jersey City. Of the licenses for establishments selling marijuana, 25 percent of the people who will be awarded must live in these areas, regardless of where the shop will be.

• At least 30 percent of the businesses selling marijuana will be owned by minorities, disabled veterans, and women.

• A Cannabis Regulatory Commission will provide oversight. They will establish the number of cannabis retailers and other licenses, track the transfer and sale, regulate purchases, advertising, and other aspects of the business.

• There would be a 12 percent excise tax on cannabis products, with an additional 2 percent tax on products going to the local town.

• Each municipality will be given 180 days after enactment to decide to prohibit cannabis establishments in its city. The municipality will be allowed to prohibit certain types of facilities, while allowing others.

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Page 26, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

BUSINESS PROFILE I&G FARMS

By Donna Frances Madej During the past months while we were enjoying the showcase of glorious seasonal fruits, vegetables and vegetation presented to us by I&G Farms at their family farm market, behind the scenes activity continued. Twenty-thousand mums, countless number of cornstalks, pumpkins and lots of straw later, the leaves fall and we’ve been anxiously waiting for the intermission to end…

Act three and the wait is over!

If you’re not already a fan of the “growers for all seasons,” now is the time to stop by 150 Whitesville Road, Jackson, for your holiday decorating and floral needs. Thanks to I&G Farms, there’s no need to settle for “typical” wreaths, swags, sprays, or grave blankets. And don’t even think about purchasing your poinsettias at a big box or grocery store and your Christmas tree on a corner or in a parking lot. Often when you buy a poinsettia from somewhere other than a grower, there’s actually no flower left, only colored leaves, due to it not being treated correctly in transit. The flower of the poinsettia is berry like, located in the center of the plant and is called the bract.

I&G’s poinsettias are grown right here in greenhouses beginning in July, are breathtaking and will surpass your expectations. As far as the trees…who knows how long ago they were cut down? Here, beautiful, healthy, fresh cut Frazer Fur Christmas trees.

Irene Johnston refers to the staff that assists her throughout the year and helps create the holiday

Where The Stage Is Set For Holiday Magic merchandise as “the most incredible, gifted designers that you’d ever want to see.” They offer premade and custom made items and lovingly craft their creations in the market, which has magically been transformed into a decorating center. Bins of embellishments and a large variety of ribbon enable you to personalize your choice and help create something very special. Bows are available, pre or handmade, and add the perfect touch to many creations. Theme wreaths are popular and if you have items you’d like to incorporate, including lights, you’re more than welcome to bring them in.

I&G Farms have provided wreaths for area businesses and always deliver upscale, meticulously crafted creations. Ideally, a week is requested for custom orders but the staff has been known to deliver in less time.

“With our custom wreaths, people usually request them large; 24, 36, 48 inches. That’s an inside dimension, so you have to double that,” Irene explains. “Sometimes they want smaller ones to match and we’ll do that too.”

A back room that’s refrigerated, ice, moisture and a cover on them helps Irene preserve the wreaths and keep them looking their finest.

“I usually get them the week before we open because we need time to start making them and decorating them to get them outside for people to buy.

She advises that fresh wreaths be displayed outside, not inside and warns that heat, especially

fireplaces, are a major reason for needles to dry out and fall off.

Spraying them with water will keep them moist and increase their longevity once you bring it home.

Premium fresh balsam greens from Nova Scotia, Canada is used for some wreaths, grave blankets and sprays. Various greens from the farm are cut and incorporated into the designs to add color, giving them a different look. Irene and her staff also make their own picks (used in their creative process) and once again need to take precaution to prevent finger injury.

“They’re sharp, and when you push them through the wreaths you have to tape your fingers up to protect them from getting poked, which hurt,” Irene exclaims. “Once I forgot about it (wrapped fingers) and went to a store to get something and the lady said, “Oh you poor thing!”

Back to the poinsettias! They’re named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. Minister to Mexico, who brought them back to the U.S., started to cultivate them and turned them into what they are today. At I&G Farms, you’ll find the traditional red, white and pink colored poinsettias but also Novelties, which are unusual hues and combinations; mauve and peach; marbled and speckled. Names include Picasso, reds and pinks with what looks like a marbled effect and Monet, an abstract with different colors. Pot sizes range from 5 to 14 inches, the largest having 30-35 flowers. They come with a really nice decorative pot cover and if desired, can be adorned with branches and greens.

A Christmassy combo of red and white plants is also very popular.

Remember that poinsettias should not be subjected to a temperature below 55 degrees and since they like a dryer condition, should not be overwatered. When a poinsettia gets overwatered it droops, causing people to think that it needs more water.

According to Irene, “I always tell people to pick up the pot and feel the weight. When it’s heavy, don’t water it. When it’s light, water it.”

A Christmas tree purchased from

I&G Farms will surely enhance your holiday celebration and decor.

Ranging in height from 6-9 feet, Irene considers the Frazer Fur the Cadillac of trees as it holds its needles longer than other types of trees.

She deals with a smaller grower, who cuts trees later, resulting in a fresher tree when they arrive at I&G Farms. After purchasing, if the tree will be put up immediately, an additional cut will be made to the stump so that it will take in water, then wrapped and tied onto your vehicle. If it’s not going up right away, it should be kept in water in a cool place and the stump cut when it’s ready to be put up. Irene assures us that the first time you put the tree up after its cut; it will drink a large amount of water. It’s crucial that its receptacle be checked daily and water be replenished as needed.

Contact I&G Farms at 732-3640308, or iandgfarmsjackson@gmail. com and like them on Facebook; IGFarms. I&G Farms will be open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Christmas Eve. At the close of business and as the lights dim, a stillness and quietness will envelop I&G Farms until spring.

Although I&G will not “officially” reopen until then, Irene says that they’re “always here, growing all the spring flowers, always checking the phones if people need to call for anything, advice about a plant or what to do. I’ll always be there.”

Undoubtedly getting ready to return on cue for I&G Farms next major production and endless encores…Bravo Irene and staff.

Bravo!

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018, Page 27

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of dec 8 - dec 14

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Tame your temper. It isn’t always how you act but how you react that counts. Your reflexes are sharp, and you can make executive decisions on the fly, but some people may find this abrasive in the week ahead.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): When you are challenged by important subjects you will be more successful if you perform an in-depth study. In the week ahead, your passion to reach major goals can co-exist with the daily grind of minor chores.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): This isn’t the best week to add new irons to the fire. You may find it difficult to say “no,” but it is in your best interests to wait for better timing. A competitor may share information that improves a tense situation.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Watch your pennies like a hawk in the week ahead. You could make financial decisions without forethought or regret an expenditure. You may receive a helping hand at the workplace from an unexpected source.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Workaholics might seem glamorous to your eyes as this week unfolds.

Someone may appear to be a sterling example, but you must be careful to avoid emulating bad habits.

Steer clear of disputes and demanding people.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Something from the past might block the way and frustrate your desires in the upcoming week. You can get stuck between a rock and a hard place if you initiate an important endeavor or argue with someone.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Point out the pos-

itive. A vague feeling of unrest or concern could waste both time and energy in the week to come.

Clear the air with a loved one a soon as possible so that a minor skirmish doesn’t turn into a cold war.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): All things eventually change for the better. Console yourself if it seems that there is too much tension in your life during the week ahead. Have faith that the fog will clear and avoid making major life decisions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Try reading past the first paragraph. In an effort to deal with irritating situations quickly you might skim over the most crucial issue. In the week to come be on your best behavior and avoid controversies and conflicts.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Remain open to suggestions. In the week ahead, you may ignore new ideas or suffer from a tendency to rely on rigid thinking. A minor alteration in your daily work routines might solve numerous nagging problems.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Rainy day funds can be swept away during a flood. In the week ahead be cautious about financial outlays and keep a sharp eye on your bank balance. You may have a great idea but should wait to execute it.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You may have plenty of energy, but a lack of imagination can hold you back from realizing your dreams. You may not be able to clearly outline a new idea that is beginning to emerge. Steer clear of disputes this week.

(c) 2018 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Ocean County: Buy Local

By Jennifer Peacock OCEAN COUNTY – It’s important that residents shop local, Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari said.

“We want everyone to buy local,” Vicari said.

“We want you to buy in Ocean County.”

“Buy in Ocean County” is an effort fronted

by Vicari, who serves as liaison to Tourism and Business Development. There are many benefits to buying locally.

“This year I want to encourage everyone to buy locally,” Vicari said. “Our downtowns and business areas have so much to offer. I am asking you to patronize local businesses including our small ‘mom and pop’ stores. These stores offer a host of items, many unique, along with great customer service.

“So many of them support our community organizations,” he said. “This is the perfect time to remember them as you set out to do your holiday shopping.”

Ocean County not only offers shopping hubs at Ocean County Mall and Jackson Premium Outlets, but has numerous charming downtown areas that offer one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques.

“From Point Pleasant Beach to Tuckerton, across the county, downtowns offer some of the best choices for holiday shopping,” Vicari said. “Many of these stores are owned by long-time residents that continue to be a staple in our communities.

Make a day out of it - shop, have lunch and just enjoy the area. There is plenty to see and do in all of our municipalities. The towns are all festively decorated for the holidays. Shopping is fun and easy when you shop locally.”

Many towns have added holiday attractions like carriage rides or trolley services. Shoppers should also look for seasonal discounts at local merchants.

Customers are also protected against fraud when shopping locally, something outside state jurisdiction and not necessarily offered when making purchases through an out-of-state company.

Returns, when offered, are easy to make as well.

Anyone with complaints about purchases not being fulfilled or other concerns can contacted the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105.

“We see the same problems year after year,” Vicari, who is chairman of the Consumer Affairs Department, said “Merchandise is not received in time for the holidays, there are problems with backorders and some received items barely resembling their catalog photos and descriptions.”

“When you buy local, you are protected against fraud,” Ocean County Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little said. “Our county and state agencies have more authority when dealing with a local business complaint. Our Department of Consumer Affairs is well known for getting a successful outcome to a complaint.

“You can drive down the street and visit the store rather than pack and ship a package across country,” Little said.

“This county is filled with small businesses that carry items that will be enjoyed for years to come,” Vicari said. “Our small businesses offer something for everyone. And if your loved one is tough to shop for, gift cards to our restaurants and small shops will be greatly appreciated.”

During the holidays and throughout the year, Vicari said its small business owners who work hard to bring a pleasant experience to all shoppers.

“Local business owners are known for giving back to their communities. Buying locally helps our economy and promises a positive outcome for both the shopper and the business owner,” Vicari said. “The results are priceless.”

wolfgang puck’s kitchen You Say Potato, I Say Yum! This Hanukkah Recipe Takes The Cake

By Wolfgang Puck

Hanukkah has one particular distinguishing characteristic to its traditional celebration foods: They are cooked in oil. That pays homage to the one-day supply of oil that miraculously kept the sacred lamp burning for eight days after Jewish patriots recaptured the temple in Jerusalem back in the 2nd century B.C. This traditional cooking method is a lovely symbolic way to help share that story with children and adults alike, through two foods served most widely at Hanukkah parties: potato pancakes and jelly-filled donuts. I’ve certainly eaten my share of both.

I’m especially fond of potato pancakes. But, as anyone who has prepared them will tell you, a particular drawback comes with cooking them at home. The best ones are usually pan-fried in shallow oil. And, after you’ve made enough for everyone, your entire kitchen and dining area are likely to smell of oil; plus, your stovetop and surrounding areas may be covered with a fine, slick film. Because the aroma and the residue can linger for days, many cooks instead buy already-made pancakes from the deli or frozen ones that they crisp up in the oven.

So let me suggest a delicious alternative that comes, in fact, from country kitchens in France and other European countries: Make crispy, oven-baked potato pancakes called galettes de pomme de terre in French.

My galettes recipe begins by shredding baking potatoes and squeezing out all their excess moisture to help them cook up as crisp as possible, the same way traditional Jewish cooks do. But that’s where the similarity ends. The cakes are then shaped to the full diameter of a skillet in which they’re briefly browned with a little butter or oil; then, they’re transferred to a baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven, coming out golden brown and crispy as can be.

The following recipe yields four good servings (with each person getting half of a large pancake).

But the recipe doubles or triples with only a little extra work; and, once you’ve partially cooked them on the stovetop, you can hold them for up to an hour before completing the baking in the oven.

In my recipe, I also offer two ways to serve the pancakes. Grownups may prefer my savory topping of smoked salmon with a shallot-dill sour cream. Both younger and older guests alike will enjoy the more traditional combination of applesauce and plain sour cream. Either way, please consider this recipe to be a Hanukkah present that goes on giving, as the savory version goes especially well with the Champagne or other sparkling wine you’ll be opening in a matter of weeks to serve on New Year’s Eve! CRISPY POTATO GALETTES TWO WAYS Serves 4 For the potato galettes: 3 baking potatoes, about 1 1/2 pounds (750 g) total weight, peeled 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of it melted in advance; or 4 tablespoons vegetable oil Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper For the shallot-dill sour cream and smoked salmon (savory topping): 1/2 cup (125 ml) sour cream 1 small shallot, minced 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 1/2 pound thinly sliced smoked salmon or other good-quality smoked fish Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing Freshly squeezed lemon juice, for brushing Finely chopped fresh chives, for garnish For the applesauce and sour cream (sweet topping): 2 cups (500 mL) good-quality applesauce Ground cinnamon 1 cup (250 mL) sour cream Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C).

For the potato galettes, use the large holes on a box grater to coarsely shred the potatoes. Transfer them to a clean kitchen towel, roll up the towel around the potatoes, and, over the sink, carefully squeeze and twist the towel to extract as much liquid as possible from the potatoes.

Transfer the potato shreds to a mixing bowl.

Drizzle with the 2 tablespoons melted butter, or 2 tablespoons of the oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss well.

In a small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the remaining butter (or heat the same amount of oil). Add half of the potatoes, and pat them into an even disk about 1/2 inch (12 mm) thick. Cook until golden, about 3 minutes per side, carefully turning the cake over with a wide spatula. Then, slide the potato galette onto a baking sheet, leaving room for another.

Repeat the process with the remaining butter or oil and remaining potatoes, transferring the second cake to the baking sheet. Transfer the galettes to the preheated oven, and bake until they are deep golden brown and crispy, about 10 minutes longer.

Then, transfer them to 1 or 2 serving platters and leave at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the topping of your choice.

If you’d like a savory topping, make the shallot-dill sour cream: Combine the sour cream, shallot, dill, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well with a wire whisk, seasoning the mixture to taste with salt and pepper.

At serving time, cut the galettes in half, transfer to serving plates, and spread the sour cream mixture over them. Top with the smoked salmon or other smoked fish of your choice. Lightly brush the salmon with olive oil and lemon juice. Garnish with chives.

If you’d like a sweeter topping, transfer the applesauce to a serving bowl and lightly dust it with cinnamon. In a small mixing bowl, whisk the sour cream with a wire whisk; then, transfer it to a serving bowl. At serving time, cut the galettes in half and transfer to serving plates. Pass the applesauce and sour cream for guests to help themselves.

(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 28, The Southern Ocean Times, December 8, 2018

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