2020-02-22 - The Toms River Times

TheTOMS RIVER Times Vol. 15 - No. 43

In This Week’s Edition

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Town Building Bridges Between Cultures

Investigation Into Teacher’s Slavery Lesson Concludes No Harm To Students

Community News!

Pages 9 -15

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─Photo by Chris Lundy Community activist Colin Lewis, at left, Joseph Champagne and his family are honored by the governing body at a recent Toms River Township Council meeting.

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – A few years ago, there were hundreds of people fighting a Chabad in a residential zone.

A few years ago, there wasn’t even a thought to have a multicultural festival or a Pride celebration in town. ral local residents who are working toward unity in the county.

Former South Toms

River Mayor Joseph Champagne gave an emotional, 10-minute mont age of K i ng’s speeches. The room was silent as he spoke with King’s recognizable inflection and cadence. When he was finished, it was like all the air was knocked out of him.

Champagne was introduced by his former coworker and roommate,

Councilman Terrence Turnbach, as “someone who walks in the footprints of Dr. King.”

There were people in the audience like members of the NAACP and Reisa Sweet, who marched with King.

Local community activist Colin Lewis was also honored.

It’s important for people of different races and cultures to uni-

laterally fight against discrimination, Lewis said. He called to mind Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and the Six Sisters of Selma, members of the Jewish and Catholic faiths who joined King’s protests in Alabama.

“Toms River is on the verge of being able to do something very special. We have to walk (Cultures - See Page 4)

THIS MONTH IN HISTORY

Modern Toms River Takes Shape In Post-War Years

By J. Mark Mutter As we have entered a new year and a new decade, let’s look back just seven decades ago - the mid-point of the 20 th century - and ask, what was happening in Toms River?

History tells us that in those f irst years

after the end of the Second World War, ou r t ow n’s le a de r s were busy planning for a time of peace and prosperity.

T he Po st-W W I I Years In the fi rst years after the war had ended,

there was a sea change of events in the world, in the United States, in New Jersey - and here in Toms River.

In 1946, the newly created United Nat ion s held it s f i r st G e n e r a l A s s e m bl y and Security Council meetings.

In 1947, India gained its independence from Great Britain.

In 1948, the State of Israel was created.

In 1948, the United States implemented the “Marshall Plan” - an economic stabilization program for western Europe.

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February 22, 2020

A New State Constitution In New Jersey, a Constitutional Convention was held at Rutgers University from June to September 1947. Each county sent delegates tasked with replacing the antiquated 1844 state (History - See Page 7)

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – Did a teacher abuse students like slaves, or did social media blow things out of proportion again?

That’s the question that kept people talking on Facebook and Instagram recently after a student said that an Intermediate East teacher’s lesson on slavery included kicking students and making them pick cotton.

After initial tempers flared with people blaming the teacher and the district for this, a backlash returned fire, defending the teacher.

At the center of it is a slavery lesson taught by Lawrence Cuneo, who is also the mayor and a long-time member of the governing body of Pine Beach.

An Instagram post by a student claimed that he had students lie down and he kicked their shoes. Also, the lesson involved having them pick seeds and sticks out of cotton.

(Students - See Page 4)

Commemorating 100 Years Of Women’s Right To Vote

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Can you remember a time when voting was not allowed equally by everyone? Most people were born after the time where people fought for equal rights to vote.

Over 100 years ago, the suffrage moment was in full swing. Activists and reformers were fighting to give women the right to vote.

Women such as Alice Paul, Antoinette Brown Blackwell and Susan B. Anthony all played a crucial part in making history and granting women the right to vote.

Ocean County celebrated the 100th anniversary of (Women - See Page 6)

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Page 2, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

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Page 4, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

Cultures:

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this thing out,” Lewis said.

He reminded people of the Around the World in Toms River event that was held on Labor Day. That event had been talked about throughout the state. This was a festival where people were given an international passport and invited to learn from other cultures through games, music and other activities. This event grew out of meetings of Toms River UNITED (Uniting Neighbors In Town Every Day), a group of civic leaders concerned about growing hostilities between groups.

During this event he took a picture of a hug between Police Chief Mitch Little and Rabbi Moshe Gourarie to demonstrate how

Students:

Continued From Page 1 In response, social media posts published

by The Patch came from parents and former students of Cuneo’s coming to his defense.

They said that his lesson was eye-opening and an inventive way to learn the lesson.

Students that were in his class with the Instagram student said that he never kicked any students, and that the kicking was made up by the student with the Instagram account.

They also said that all participants were volunteers, and that they weren’t forced to partake in the more unusual segment of the lesson.

The news spread quickly. One radio news segment gave one or two sentences on the accusations without giving any context.

Some parents were unhappy with the length of time that the district was taking to conduct

far things have come. Gourarie runs Chabad Jewish Center out of a house on Church Road. The township had required a use variance to run the event in a residential area. There had been thousands of residents sounding off about it, and a federal court battle that ultimately declared Toms River was wrong.

People are on the right trajectory now, Lewis said. They just have to keep taking steps toward equality and love.

“Be the light that Toms River is supposed to be for the state of New Jersey,” Lewis said.

an investigation into the allegations.

“The district has concluded its investigation into a complaint alleging that an Intermediate East 8th-grade social studies lesson on slavery was ‘degrading’ to students,” reported Michael Kenny, a spokesperson for the district. “We have determined that it was not teacher Lawrence Cuneo’s intention to offend his students; rather, the purpose of the instruction was that this appalling but nevertheless real facet of our nation’s history more fully resonate with students.

“District leaders, curriculum directors, and teachers, including Mr. Cuneo, are working together to revisit the delivery of instruction to ensure it meets the needs, and accounts for the sensitivities, of all students. The district maintains that all personnel matters remain confidential,” Kenny added.

Cuneo did not return a request for comment as of press time.

Garden State Philharmonic To Perform At Local Church

ISLAND HEIGHTS – A new concert series offering intimate shows with members of the Garden State Philharmonic, featuring Jameson Platte on cello, Uli Speth on violin, and composer Ben Goldberg.

Featured works include Amy Beach’s Violin Sonata, The Gift by Ben Goldberg,

and Rachmaninoff ’s Sonata for Cello and Piano.

The performance will be held at the Island Heights United Methodist Church on March 15 at 3 p.m.

For more information visit gardenstatephilharmonic.org/events

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The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 5

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Page 6, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

Women:

Continued From Page 1 New Jersey’s ratification of the 19th Amendment in the historic courtroom of the Ocean County Courthouse.

Ocean County Clerk Scott M. Colabella was the chief coordinator of the event, and presented the speakers and the four Ocean County women who were being honored during the evening.

“As an elected Constitutional Officer in Ocean County, I am honored to coordinate this important program recognizing the centennial anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution granting women the right to vote,” Colabella said.

Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director and liaison to the Ocean County Clerk’s Office Gary Quinn was the first speaker of the night. Quinn dove into the significance of the anniversary and thanked the women of Ocean County for what they do. “Your strengths, your character and your hard work are all qualities that make you tremendous goals for all women in the county,” Quinn said.

The New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way delivered a speech on how this movement paved the way for women today. She discussed how our democracy is stronger when everyone participates, and encouraged everyone to vote for every election. “Voting is the floor, not the ceiling,” Way expressed.

She also stated that “we are still an unfinished book, and women are still fighting for rights today.”

Timothy Hart, an Ocean County Historian, gave a short historical presentation about the important turning point in history. He said that prior to the Amendment, New Jersey held a referendum in 1915 to see if the state should allow women to vote. Ocean County was the only county that was for women’s right to vote.

The main portion of the program was recognizing and honoring four women in Ocean County who perform essential roles in public service.

State Superior Court Assignment Judge Marlene Lynch Ford was the first woman to serve as Assignment Judge in Ocean County – the chief judicial officer - and was the first woman to serve as Prosecutor in Ocean County and also one of six women elected from Ocean County to serve in the State Legislature. She encouraged all women to run for office. “Don’t be afraid to run, even if you lose,” Ford said.

Ocean County Freeholder Virginia E. Haines is the second woman only to be elected to the Board of Freeholders in the county’s history and was the director of the Board in 2019. She voiced how women are the backbone for today’s voting rights.

“Everyone gets to enjoy the right to vote because of women,” Haines said. She also stated how in this past election, 56 percent of the votes were women.

Ocean County Assemblywoman DiAnne Gove is the sixth woman to represent Ocean County in the State Legislature. As a retired history teacher, she said it’s important that women hold political posts and thanked the

women of the suffrage movement for paving the way for women today.

Lastly, Barbara Lanuto was honored as she is the first woman to serve as Ocean County’s deputy county clerk. She concluded the night by reviewing that out of 203 municipal seats in Ocean County, 44 of them are women and

only three are serving as mayor.

“We have made great strides as women in Ocean County throughout the years serving as municipal elective officials, but we still have a long way to go,” Lanuto said.

─Photo by Alyssa Riccardi Members of the Fourth Grade Chorus of the Clifton Avenue Grade School in Lakewood perform during the Women’s Right to Vote Centennial Ceremony at the Ocean County Court House in Toms River.

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History:

Continued From Page 1 constitution. Ocean County sent Percy Camp and Franklin H. Berry.

The delegates proposed a new framework which provided for a strengthened governor with a four-year term and the right to run for re-election. The 1844 constitution provided for one three-year term and prohibited re-election, and the ability to run again only after a three-year hiatus. The proposed new constitution included a re-organized, modern state court system.

The proposed Constitution was overwhelmingly approved by New Jersey’s voters in November 1947 by a vote of 653,096 to 184,632, an 80 to 20 percent margin. All of New Jersey’s counties voted to approve except Essex and Gloucester. The Ocean County vote to approve was 6,174 to 4,079.

The 1947 Constitution still governs New Jersey today.

What About Toms River?

Those post-war years also saw great change in Toms River. Our sleepy little town had a 1940 population of 5,165; by 1950, it had increased to 7,707.

In 1948, the then-Dover Township Committee (at the time, a three-member governing body) created, by ordinance, a municipal court. Local attorney Benjamin Novins was appointed town magistrate - with an annual salary of $2,500.

As the Cold War was gripping the world, the State’s Civilian Defense Director recom-

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 7 mended that the Township appoint a local director which the Township Committee did in 1948.

1949: New Town Hall, United School System, And More 1949 was a busy year in Toms River.

The Township Committee had already purchased the property at 33 Washington Street.

The stately, pillared building had been the home of Henry Low, President of the First National Bank of Toms River, and later, Dr. J. Philip Citta who was killed in World War II. The plan was to move from the cramped municipal offices located in the firehouse on Robbins Street to the Washington Street building. The Township government shared the firehouse with Fire Company Number One. The tax office and fire company split the first floor; the Township Committee met on the second floor.

Renovations to convert the residence into offices were estimated to cost $90,000 and the Township Committee awarded contracts for various phases of the work in July 1949.

The New Jersey Courier - the then local newspaper - in an August 5, 1949 editorial noted that there were complaints about this spending due to the town’s current needs for the schools and sewers, and that some residents thought the Town Hall project “could wait a couple of years.” The Courier disagreed - and said it was a “good investment in the future of our municipality.”

A war memorial was agreed to be built in connection with the new Town Hall. It was an idea pushed by the TR PTA. It is located,

today, next to the Town Hall flagpole.

Also, that month, the Walter Reade Theatres opened its third outdoor theater in the country - the “Toms River Drive-In Theatre.” Located on State Highway 37, it could accommodate 450 vehicles.

In April 1949, by ordinance, the Township Committee created the Dover Sewerage Authority. The independent authority was created as a taxing district to re-build the existing sewage plant, extend sewer lines, and float bonds.

In June, local attorney Joseph A. Citta was named as its first chairman.

The Toms River Municipal Utilities Authority is the Sewerage Authority’s successor entity.

In 1949, two separate voter referendums were held to create a “consolidated” public school system.

In May, the first proposal to join Beachwood, Dover Township, Island Heights, Lacey, Pine Beach, and South Toms River was voted on.

It failed as Island Heights and Lacey voted no.

In June, a second vote to join Beachwood, Dover Township, Pine Beach, and South Toms River was held. It passed overwhelmingly in all four towns. The Dover vote was 272 to 118; in South Toms River there was just one no vote.

This “consolidated” system became the Toms River Regional School System in 1964.

1950: The County’s Centennial The year 1950 was Ocean County’s 100-year anniversary. About 500 people attended a centennial celebration in the Court House which began with the flag salute led by the Rev. A.G.

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In May, the Mathis Bridge was opened, named in honor of Thomas A. Mathis, former state senator, the county treasurer, and longtime county Republican party leader.

The old Hall of Records was razed and the new east and west wings of the Court House were built in 1950.

Locally, in January 1950, a comprehensive building code was proposed for the Township.

It was in response to rapid residential growth after the war. The code included a building inspector.

The building code was adopted in February despite, as the Courier reported, “vociferous opposition from a group of beach area developers and builders.”

In March, a special meeting was held and amendments to the new code were agreed to.

In April, the Dover Chief of Police urged that parking meters be installed in the downtown area.

As we look at Toms River today, we still have these many things which were planned, voted for, created, and built some seven decades ago: a new Town Hall, a local court, a sewerage authority, a bridge, a united school system, a building code - and, yes, parking meters!

SOURCES: New Jersey Courier; N.J. 1948 Legislative Manual; Federal Census; Wikipedia NEXT: In 1950, a chemical company from Cincinnati, Ohio proposes relocating to Toms River!

J. Mark Mutter is the former Toms River Clerk.

He chaired the Township’s 225-year anniversary committee in 1992 and its 250-year anniversary committee in 2017.

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY E DITORIAL Missing The Personal Touch In Stores You see them wherever you go these days!

At first, they started showing up at grocery stores, then convenience stores. They popped up without notice at many of our leading fast food chains and even made it to the local branches of our library systems.

They are said to make life easier, faster and we’re assured that they will not cause a decline in staff at these respective establishments.

Some question the validity of that claim.

So, who… or rather what is seemingly everywhere and to a small degree changing our lives?

Kiosks! You can use them

to order your sandwich, pay for your gallon of milk, check out your book and order your crunch wrap breakfast meal.

You don’t have to interact as much (or at all) with staff if you want to make a deposit at your bank because newer ATMs are programed with that function. That is an extension of the kiosk concept.

I am not sure yet how I feel about this new technological development. While I’m clearly not opposed to new tech making my life simple, there is something about how it is being presented that just seems a bit unnerving.

I guess it’s seeing the lack of cashiers in a favorite convenience store when I want

to check out my drink and see five self-checkout areas and one manned station.

Our library system is rolling out more self-check out machines and it was amusing to watch young people go up to the brightly lit machines thinking they were video games or a young mom who wanted to make a copy of something believing it a copy machine.

I thought it odd, months ago, when I stood a tad too long looking at a newly installed mechanical order system at a local McDonald’s and as I turned around to walk to the manned counter, have the woman behind it walk over to me and walk me through the new device and show me how

easy it was. Granted this was at a time when I was the only customer in the lobby.

Another observation was at my local grocery store and watching the cashiers observe the installation of a batch of new self-check machines as if they were witnessing their replacements. Perhaps they were?

It isn’t just the kiosk devices but manned staff with hand held devices that can check your small order as you stand in line. That is convenient and that still has a personal touch.

Have you ever gone to a bank and approached the teller area holding your deposit slip and other paperwork only to be told, “Sir, are you aware you

can now do this at the ATM?” While it was said in pleasant manner my brain translated that into, “Sir, this is much a minor task we’d rather you not bother us with it anymore and do it yourself.”

We live in a time when a few fleeting words between the shopper and cashier may become a thing of the past before long. Some of us feel an unnatural intimidation of going up to those self-check machines despite having a decent knowledge of navigating around our computers and phone devices. There is just something about those kiosks with their buttons, scanners, lights and various slots that just seem out of place, as if

they are armed with lasers and could activate them if we do the wrong thing.

Perhaps if, or rather, when they start to talk (and you know that eventually they will) it won’t seem so bad.

When we start to get illuminated digital facial features, we’ll forget that it’s just a machine and we’ll fool ourselves into thinking it’s the friendly cashier who we used to joke with while were standing in line.

Whether you use them or not, they are now part of our life and I guess it’s all in the name of progress.

Bob Vosseller Assistant Editor

Letters To The Editor

The Editor Trenton Doesn’t Realize How Letters Aid Cuts AreTo Hurting Schools Dear Governor Murphy, At this time of year, school districts throughout New Jersey are beginning to prepare budgets for the upcoming school year - which is always a formidable task as we have to balance the education of the children in our communities with the real financial concerns of our district’s taxpayers. This year, the constituents in the Freehold Regional High School District’s footprint must grapple with the serious negative impacts of Senate Bill 2 (S-2) and the long-term effects it will have on the education and opportunities available to our 10,600 current students and the thousands more who will enter the schools of the Freehold Regional High School District in coming years. S-2 has had and will continue to have a direct negative impact on the

high school students in Colts Neck, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell, Manalapan, and Marlboro and will adversely affect all the taxpayers in these communities.

On the surface, the conceptual framework underlying S-2 sounded ideal - specifically a chance to redistribute school funding to help those districts that had sharp increases in enrollment while their funding remained flat. In reality, S-2 is and continues to have devastating impacts on 500,000 children across the state in order to help those districts. This bill has established a false perception of have and have nots, creating an atmosphere that pits students, parents, and communities against each other; rather than celebrating, sustaining and working to

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Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

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improve New Jersey’s recent #1 ranking for providing a stellar education to every child.

We completely support our neighbor Freehold Borough and other districts receiving their fair share but submit that it must be done in a manner that does not destroy other school districts, including our own. Keep in mind, the Freehold Borough K-8 School District, which is one of the districts that had sharp increases in enrollment while their funding remained flat, sends their students to us for high school. So while those students will benefit greatly during their time in the lower district, S-2 will be dismantling the education they will receive in the Freehold Regional High School District when they enter ninth grade.

We’re certain it was not the intent of those in the Legislature, to create divisive legislation that will have damaging, long-term consequences for the children of New Jersey. We doubt any elected official would support such outcomes, but unfortunately, that is exactly what is occurring.

We ask that the phasing out of state aid under S-2 is extended until the magnitude of its impact is fully understood and that the phasing in of state aid to the districts who saw sharp enrollment increases continues on the current schedule established

by S-2 with new revenue for state aid earmarked to those districts. Otherwise, thousands of children – many of them your youngest constituents - will be

negatively impacted in the short and long term. It is time for the funding formula to be completely redesigned through a transparent process that benefits every student in this state.

The Freehold Regional High School District is an exemplary district. Our students have outstanding opportunities to explore their passions whether through participation in one of our specialized Magnet Programs, career and technical education pathways or through various clubs and sports teams. The reductions in state aid under S-2 will severely diminish educational programming for students across our region, which in turn will have negative implications for college and career success.

This District has prided itself on its fiscal responsibility. As a regionalized system, our economy of scale allows us to provide a superior education for our students while spending approximately $3,500 per pupil less than similar districts. In fact, our per-pupil costs are below most of the K-8 systems in our area despite running hundreds of clubs and athletic teams. The belief that this district has somehow lived “high on the hog” for years - a sound bite and talking point often stated by supporters of S-2 - is a dangerous misrepresentation of Freehold Regional.

The repeated refrain we hear is that our enrollment is declining, that we should have been downsizing accordingly all along. The answer is we did and continue

to downsize. On average our enrollment declines approximately 1.4% each year. With our enrollment being close to 10,600 students you can see how minimal that decrease is each year. With that slight decrease in students each year, we worked to eliminate positions to keep our ratio of staff to students efficient.

In 2010 alone, eighty-one staff positions were cut from across the district. In addition, since 2014, we have eliminated an additional thirty-six positions of faculty, staff, and administrators to match the decline of student enrollment. That’s one hundred and seventeen positions eliminated over a decade – an average of almost twelve positions a year.

We cannot absorb a loss of $30 million and continue to provide the quality education our students deserve. The most frustrating part is that we now have to announce cuts to programs and services for our students, yet we cannot provide our community with an explanation of why or how the funding formula has determined that the Freehold Regional’s taxpayers are not contributing their “fair share.” It is inexcusable that the formula has not been made public, especially in light of its questionable math.

According to the state’s formula, if you owned a house valued at $400,000 and earned $100,000 in 2009 you had the ability to pay $4,127 in Freehold Regional taxes. Keeping that property value and income flat, in 2020 the state’s formula says you’re able to

pay $5,396 in Freehold Regional taxes. Taxpayers deserve a clear explanation of how their “fair share” is determined. Without seeing the formula ourselves, we cannot provide them with an answer.

We recognize the challenge of generating revenue to adequately fund education in New Jersey, but we implore you to work towards a solution that ensures every student in the state receives the education he or she deserves.

S-2 in its current form is not that answer. Helping some students at the expense of others is the opposite of providing a fair education for all. (Visit our online petition at change.org/p/phil-murphyfunding-formula-fairness-for-allstudents) where you can read the names and opinions of more than 10,000 residents who deserve an answer as how this funding is determined.

Before we begin to dismantle the educational programming with negative consequences for every child in the Freehold Regional, we respectfully ask that you reconsider your stance on S-2 in light of the severe negative consequences that it will have for thousands of children and families in New Jersey.

Charles B. Sampson, Ed.D. Superintendent Carl Accettola Board President Sean Boyce Assistant Superintendent

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The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 9

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

Mayor Presents Certificate Of Appreciation

─Photo courtesy Toms River Township TOMS RIVER – Mayor Maurice Hill presented a certificate of appreciation from Toms River Township to Dr. Elisa Velazquez and her staff at Ocean Pediatric Dental Associates for their annual Give Kids A Smile.

Dr. Velazquez and her staff treated children for four hours at their office on Lakehurst Road. The office was thanked for the care they provided to the residents of Toms River and Ocean County.

School Hosts Fundraiser For The Trahey Family TOMS RIVER – The Silver Bay Elementary School PTO is hosting a community bake sale fundraiser on February 25 from 4 to 7:30 p.m.

It will be held in the gymnasium at Silver Bay Elementary school, 100 Silver Bay Road. This event will be open to the public.

On February 7, a devastating fire tore

through the Trahey family home in Silverton destroying it and taking the life of Sara Trahey. Two of her three children are students at Silver Bay Elementary school. Sara herself was a PTO member who often volunteered her time at PTO events.

All proceeds from this bake sale will go directly to the Trahey family.

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

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BEFORE THERE WAS LASIK

“Photorefractive keratectomy” (PRK) was the first type of laser eye surgery for the correction of refractive errors. Although it is the predecessor to the more widely used LASIK procedure, PRK remains a viable option and provides some advantages over LASIK for some patients. For instance, such factors as corneal thickness (or thinness), corneal curvature, and corneal scarring may all play a role in the recommendation of PRK over LASIK. While both procedures use an excimer laser to correct vision, LASIK involves creating a corneal “flap,” under which the excimer laser is applied. PRK uses the excimer laser to directly remove epithelial (outer corneal) tissue without a flap. So, while PRK may take longer to heal than LASIK, it removes less corneal tissue.

As with any other surgery, it’s very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions to help ensure optimum results. You will need to attend frequent follow-up appointments with your doctor over the next several weeks to monitor the healing process. To schedule an appointment, please call SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622

BRICK (732) 477-6981

BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020

www.oceancountyeye.com P.S. During the healing process, PRK patients wear a contact lens bandage for approximately four to five days, as the epithelial tissue undergoes the initial healing phase and seals the surface.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 10, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

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

Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Annual Conference

TOMS RIVER – The Greater Toms River Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 3nd Annual Ocean County Nonprofit Symposium Event co-sponsored by the Grunin Foundation and TD Bank on April 1 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, Toms River.

The presenters on this panel will share with you an abundance of experience, unflappable dedication to their cause, and unwavering hope on how they are using social enterprise to transform communities.

Facilitator: Edward LaPorte, Executive Director, New Jersey Office of Faith Based Initiative.

Panelists: Barbara Heisler, CEO, Glass Roots; Paul L. McEvily, Executive Director, Interfaith Neighbors; Patricia P. Nolan, Sales & Marketing Coordinator, The Arc Ocean County Chapter, Arc Employment Center.

There is a favorite saying in management literature that “culture eats strategy for breakfast”. In the case of building a more diverse board, we couldn’t agree more. There is an increasing priority to build boards that more closely resemble the communities we serve. So, where do you start? Without a board culture that allows new voices to feel welcome and empowered, our strategies for

building board diversity are just optics. This session will focus on how to assess our board culture-formally and informally-and to build a more inclusive culture.

Speakers: Keith Timko, Executive Director, Support Center for Nonprofit Management and Yvette Murry, President/COO, YRM Consulting Group, LLC. Conscious consumerism isn’t a new concept; however, the scope of its influence has significantly increased with the rise of social media & informed shoppers who make decisions based on shared values. Opportunities to develop long-term, mutually beneficial & purpose driven authentic relationships. This session will focus on a candid discussion of cause-related marketing its characteristics and how organizations can have a positive social impact while generating financial returns.

Facilitator: Danielle Corso, Vice-Chair of Community Affairs, David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation. Panelists: Stephen Carpitella, Mortgage Professional, Equity Prime and Dan Mueller, Financial Services Professional, NY Life.

Tickets are $60 and include a full breakfast.

For additional information and to register, visit tomsriverchamber.com/all-events

Local Man Pleads Guilty To Drug Dealing

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – A Toms River man pleaded guilty to dealing cocaine, and he faces a possible eight years in prison.

Jarian Adams, 40, pleaded guilty to Possession of Cocaine in an Amount Greater than One-Half Ounce with Intent to Distribute, according to an announcement by Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.

His sentencing is scheduled for April 17, and authorities will recommend he be given eight years in state prison with four years of parole ineligibility.

He had been arrested on July 20, 2018 when Barnegat police pulled him over for motor vehicle infractions. During the stop, police found a “significant amount of cocaine – indicative of distribution purposes.”

Adams additionally pleaded guilty to charges from another incident: Possession of Cocaine in an Amount Less than OneHalf Ounce with Intent to Distribute and Possession of Oxycodone Without a Valid Prescription. He faces three additional years in prison for each charge.

Billhimer thanked Assistant Prosecutor Kimberly Carr who handled these cases on behalf of the State, as well as the Barnegat Township Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Police Department, Toms River Township Police Special Enforcement Team, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit for their shared assistance leading to Adams’ guilty pleas.

Diabetes Self-Management Workshop To Begin TOMS RIVER – Diabetes affects nearly one-third of adults 65 years of age and older.

It can cause blindness, kidney failure and amputations as well as the leading cause of heart disease and stroke.

Get the support and tools you need to manage your diabetes and to prevent complications that come with it. If you or a family member are diabetic or pre-diabetic you may want to consider attending the Free Diabetes Self-management workshop at the Ocean County Health Department, 175 Sunset Avenue.

This workshop was created by the Stanford School of Medicine and aims to improve self-management behavior to reduce risks as-

sociated with diabetes. Participants will learn about diabetes and how it affects their body.

Workshops are highly interactive, where mutual support and success build the participant’s confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives.

The workshop will meet for two and a half hour sessions once a week for six weeks. You will receive information, support and motivation along with a complimentary book, “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.”

The workshop begins March 19 from 1 to 3:30 p.m.

To register, contact Louanne at 732-2818391.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 11

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

The Goddard School Hosts Open House

TOMS RIVER – The Goddard School will be hosting an open house on February 22 and March 14 from 9 to 11 a.m.

The infant and first steps programs offer caring and supportive teachers fostering social-emotional development through nurturing relationships with the children while babies develop physical skills as they learn to move and manipulate toys. As young learners begin to walk and talk regularly, their curiosity drives them to explore. The toddler and get set classrooms foster children’s developing independence by helping them hone valuable skills, such as the abilities to collaborate and communicate.

In the preschool classroom, children develop perseverance by engaging in learning activities and sticking with them until they solve the problem or complete the project. Young learners continue their journey of explora-

tion and discovery in our pre-kindergarten classroom. Teachers help them apply their developing literacy and math skills through purposeful, planned learning experiences.

The F.L.EX. Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) is grounded in research on how children learn best: children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun. It’s designed to help build each child’s emotional, academic, social, creative and physical skills to provide a well-rounded experience. The accredited, play-based curriculum is enhanced with a wide range of enrichment programs such as manners, fitness & yoga, music appreciation, computer skills, science & math and foreign & sign language.

For more information, call 732-363-5530 or visit goddardschool.com/Toms-

River-IINJ

Adopt A Pet From SAVE Rescue Shelter

TOMS RIVER – Established in 2002, Shore Animal Volunteer Enterprise is a 501-c nonprofit rescue shelter. SAVE takes unwanted, homeless and abandoned animals and provides them with medical care and a safe and nurturing environment until they find there forever homes. SAVE is a no kill shelter.

Visit their adoption center and adopt your own furry friend. The center is located at 1594 Lakewood Road Unit 5 Toms River, and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. and on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit save.rescuegroups.org.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 12, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

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

COMING SOON BERKELEY TOWNSHIP LAW OFFICE OPENING 2020 To better serve your legal needs 600 Mule Road Suite 16, Toms River Robert C. Shea Marc S. Galella Dina M. Vicari Michael J. Deem Christopher R. Shea Robert C. Shea II Estate Planning Personal Injury Real Estate Medicaid Law Medical Malpractice Condominium Law Municipal Court

Manchester Area (732) 408-9455

Land Use & Planning Estate Litigation General Litigation Commercial Litigation Construction Litigation Workers’ Compensation Tax Appeals

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HPV Vaccination Can Help Prevent Cancer

NEPTUNE - Many viruses cause a host of symptoms and conditions, including colds and the flu. Most people are able to overcome viral infections in a couple days to a couple weeks but there are other viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common sexually transmitted disease, that can cause long-term health problems including cancer.

“HPV is probably the most common sexually transmitted disease which a lot of people don’t know about,” Dr. Tracy Proverbs-Singh said.

Singh, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Health Hackensack University Medical Center. “It can remain latent in the body for a lifetime.” Most sexually active people have been exposed to HPV and many times it’s harmless and goes away on its own.

The cancer most commonly associated with HPV is cervical cancer, but it can also lead to vulvar and vaginal, anal, penile and oral cancers. “Ninety percent of cervix cancers are found to have HPV in their DNA,” said Dr. Karim ElSahwi, attending gynecologic oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

Gynecologists use a Pap test to screen for the presence of HPV in the cervix. They may find cervical cancer early, when it’s most easily treated, or even when it’s at a pre-cancerous stage. About 90 percent of anal cancer is also

caused by HPV. You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus.

Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV and develop symptoms years after having sex with someone who is infected. Using condoms every time during sexual intercourse can help reduce the risk. However, condoms are not as effective against HPV as they are against other STDs like chlamydia and HIV. HPV vaccination can provide protection against the most common types of HPV which cause cancer and genital warts. The vaccine is less effective once sexually active, because people probably have come in contact with HPV already. For this reason, the vaccine is recommended for children age 11-12, giving them protection before being exposed to the viruses. “Getting the vaccine and preventing the infection decreases the risk of cancer dramatically, because over 90 percent of the strains that could cause cancer are represented,” Dr. Proverbs-Singh said.

Normally, people will not experience any symptoms of HPV infection until it has already caused a health problem. Consequently, it is important for people to have regular checkups with their physician to find abnormal changes in their health before it turns into something more serious.

Theater Company Premieres New Musical

TOMS RIVER – Exit 82 Theater Company of Toms River has announced its new play ‘Puffs’ to premiere on March 13 at 8 p.m.

For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil.

This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs who just happened to be there too.

A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world.

The New York Times proclaims Puffs, “A fast-paced romp through the ‘Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic.’ For Potter-philiacs who grew up alongside Potter and are eager to revisit that world, ‘Puffs’ exudes a jovial, winking fondness for all things Harry!”

Tickets are $28 for children and seniors (60 and over), and $30 for adults. You can purchase tickets on exit82theatre.com/showsevents Puffs the Play will be showcased at Exit 82 Studio Theater on the following dates: March 14 at 8 p.m., March 15 at 2 p.m., March 20 at 8 p.m., March 21 at 8 p.m., March 22 at 2 p.m., March 27 at 8 p.m., March 28 at 8 p.m., and March 29 at 2 p.m.

Exit 82 Theatre Company was founded as a non-profit theatre group in 2008 to provide quality artistic entertainment that involves and inspires the local community to develop talents in all aspects of theatre arts.

For more information, visit exit82theatre.com

Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 14

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 13

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

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─Photo courtesy of Toms River School District TOMS RIVER – The township partnered with Toms River Regional Schools to make traveling to and from Cedar Grove Elementary School more accessible. The two entities worked together to replace the Dave Marion Bridge, which is now complete and open for use. Sidewalks are expected to be completed next week.

The footbridge makes traveling to Cedar Grove easier, healthier, more environmentally conscious, and cheaper. The proximity access reduces the need for busing.

The district’s Transportation Department estimates it can eliminate one bus from its Cedar Grove rotation because of the bridge.

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Free Tax Prep Offered

JERSEY SHORE – In partnership with Fulfill, United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties is offering free personalized tax preparation at Financial Success Center (FSC) Network locations in Freehold, Long Beach Island and Toms River. Financial Success Centers provide free, comprehensive resources under one roof to help people move from financial difficulty to economic well-being.

One way the Financial Success Center Network helps struggling workers in our community is by connecting them with the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). EITC is a benefit for working people with low to moderate income. To qualify, certain requirements must be met and a tax return must be filed, even if you do not owe any tax or are not required to file. In 2019, Fulfill helped 4,500 households file their taxes for free through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This resulted in over $7.8 million in State and Federal refunds for participants, including $2.4 million in Earned Income Tax Credits.

Monmouth and Ocean County households earning $56,000 or less, or individuals earn-

ing $35,000 or less, are eligible for free tax preparation by IRS certified tax professionals from Fulfill. Appointments are available at the following Financial Success Centers from now through April 15.

FSC Freehold Tuesday – Friday 12 to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hackensack Meridian Community Resource Center, Freehold Raceway Mall, First Floor Macy’s Wing 3710 Route 9, Freehold.

FSC Long Beach Island. Virtual Tax Site, By Appointment Only – Call 609-494-8861 x116.

St. Francis Community Center (LBICC), 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Township.

FSC Toms River. Monday, Tuesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The B.E.A.T. Center, 1769 Hooper Avenue, Toms River.

To make an appointment, dial 2-1-1 and press 27 at the prompt, or schedule online at fulfillnj. org. If your household earns $66,000 or less, you can also file your taxes online for free at myfreetaxes.com.

For more information on this program, visit uwfinancialsuccess.org.

Animal Shelter To Host Gift Auction

TOMS RIVER – S.A.V.E. Animal Shelter is hosting their 9th annual gift auction. The auction proceeds will help provide care to the animals residing in the no kill rescue shelter.

Admission is $15 which includes 1 sheet of tickets, coffee, tea and dessert.

The gift auction will be held May 1 at 5 p.m. at Toms River Elks Lodge #1875 600 Washington St. Toms River. The raffle begins at 6:30 p.m.

For more information about the auction contact Linda 732-255-3907.

Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home Serving the community with dignity and compassion since 1869.

Susan S. Dunigan • Manager, NJ Lic. 4328 Aimee C. Brunson • Director, NJ Lic. 4511 Diana M. Daly • Advanced Planning Director, NJ Lic. 4920

3010 Ridgeway Road • Manchester, NJ 08759 www.andersoncampbellmanchester.com

732.657.5700

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

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

Local Named To The President’s List

TOMS RIVER – John D’Aniello, has been named to the President’s List at Western New England University for the Fall Semester 2019. Students are named to the President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.30 or higher.

D’Aniello is working toward a BSBA in Finance.

Celebrating its Centennial in the year 2019, Western New England University

is a private, independent, coeducational institution. Located on an attractive 215acre suburban campus in Springfield, Massachusetts, Western New England serves 3,974 students, including 2,629 full-time undergraduate students. Undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs are offered through Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering, Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and the School of Law.

Moose Lodge Hosts Spaghetti Dinner

ORTLEY BEACH – Members of the Ortley Beach Moose Lodge #399 will be holding a Tricky Tray & Spaghetti & Meatball dinner on February 29 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

Tickets will be available in the Social Quarters.

Any member wishing to donate any new or unused item, including gift certificates for a gift basket would be greatly appreciated. Anyone wanting to donate desserts (baked or bought) to be served after dinner, see the sign-up sheet in the Social Quarters.

Local Church Hosts Indoor Flea Market

TOMS RIVER – St. Stephen Ukrainian Catholic Church will be having an indoor flea market on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many vendors and hot ethnic foods will be available.

Handicapped accessible, free admission, free parking. Vendors call 732-255-6549.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

Visitors Shobo & Shady Clown Show & more exciting visitors!

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

Library To Host Annual “Links With The Masters” Fundraiser

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County Library’s Toms River Branch, 101 Washington St., will be transformed into a miniature golf course during a two-day fundraiser by the Ocean County Library Foundation.

The 4th annual “Links with the Masters” will be held March 6 and 7. Golf attire is suggested to add to the fun atmosphere of the event, but is not required.

The March 6 adult-only (21+) event will start at 7 p.m. with cocktails and light fare.

Tournament play will start at 8 p.m. Tickets are $75 per player or $50 per spectator. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible.

The March 7 event starts at 10 a.m. and will run to 3 p.m. All ages are welcome to play a round of mini golf with a suggested donation of $3 per child and $5 per adult.

Advance tickets are not required. Sponsorship opportunities for the event are also available.

Tickets and sponsorships may be purchased online at theoceancountylibrary.org or by calling Harry Applegate at 732-914-5407 or via email: happlegate@theoceancountylibrary. org.

All proceeds go to the Ocean County Library Foundation, which is a certified 501 (C) (3) organization.

Grunin Center Hosts Gospel Extravaganza TOMS RIVER — Join Ocean County College’s Organization for Black Unity and Office of Student Life for an evening of song, dance, and gospel music at the 20th Annual Gospel Extravaganza, held at the Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts February 29 at 7 p.m.

Special guests include the Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University, in Washington, D.C., and the singing group Fire, from New Jersey.

The Howard Gospel Choir, celebrating four decades of musical excellence, aims to “spread the Good News of Jesus Christ through song,” the choral group states. “Our

purpose and passion is to serve Christ with our musical gifts, bringing peace, restoration, healing, and inspiration to all who will lend their ears and hearts.”

The quartet Fire, meanwhile, is “stirring up excitement on every occasion to minister through song,” states press for the group.

“This spirit-filled singing sensation – Terelle, Juwan, Tajohn, and Al-Shamir – is rapidly being perceived and warmly embraced as the new vanguard for Gospel.”

Tickets are $10 for adults, and $5 for students and seniors.

To purchase tickets, contact the Grunin Center at 732-255-0500 or visit grunincenter.org.

Local Animal Shelter Announces Spring Auction TOMS RIVER – S.A.V.E. Animal Shelter invites you to their 9th Annual Spring Fling Gift Auction. The event will be held at the Toms River Elks, 600 Washington Street, on May 1 from 5 to 9 p.m.

The price to attend is $15, which includes a free sheet of tickets, free coffee, tea and

dessert. Food can be purchased at that time.

No outside food or beverages are allowed. It is always a fun night for all. Multiple raffle gifts, lottery hat, birthday board and 50/50 raffle.

Tickets can be purchased at their thrift shop located at 777 Fischer Blvd. or you can call Linda at 732-255-3907.

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!

Executive Director, Toms River Special Improvement District The Toms River Business Development Corporation, which administers the Toms River Business (Special) Improvement District, is seeking a full time Executive Director. Proven successful experience in economic development, government relations, grant writing/acquisition, corporate sponsorships, budgeting, marketing/brand management and event production oversight a must. Salary based on experience.

Please submit cover letter, resume and at least three references to: Toms River Business Development Corp.

53 Main Street Toms River, NJ 08753 732-341-8738 732-341-8748 Fax lthomson@downtowntomsriver.com

255 RT 70 ¥ TOMS RIVER ¥ 732-363-5530

2020 For All Ages Up To 12 Years Old

Fun and Exciting Field Trips!

Lakehurst Naval Base Asbury Park Spray Park Monmouth Museum & Insectropolis!

Special Days Wacky Wet Wednesdays • Kona Ice Truck

Karaoke Dance Party Sensory Day & so much more!

If you sign-up by March 1st for the 10 weeks of Summer Camp, the last week of camp is free! http://www.goddardschool.com/ nj-ny/toms-river-crescent-road-nj Visitors and Trips are subject to change.

To attend field trips, you must be 4 years and older.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 16, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

FOOT & HEEL PAIN CENTER

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 17

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Ocean County Library’s Annual Prom Dress Drive TOMS RIVER – February marks the kickoff of the Ocean County Library’s 12th Annual Prom Dress Drive. All branches are accepting gently-used or new prom dresses and tuxedos during regular business hours through March 13.

The drive will provide formal attire at no charge to middle and high school aged students for their schools’ spring formal events. Donations give students the opportunity to join their friends at a memorable event with confidence.

Accessories, shoes, purses or bridesmaid’s dresses are not needed at this time.

Giveaways will take place at the follow-

ing locations and dates: Toms River Branch, 101 Washington St., 732-349-6200: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. March 24, 25, and 26.

Barnegat Branch, 112 Burr St., 609698-3331: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 1 and 2.

Little Egg Harbor Branch, 290 Mathistown Rd., 609-294-1197: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., April 7 and 8.

Lakewood Branch, 301 Lexington Ave., 732-363-1435: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 27; 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 29.

Registration is not required for this free event. For more information, call 732349-6200 or visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events.

BINGO TUESDAY

Workshops to Succeed in the Real Estate World Build practical skills and business confidence at 5 workshops with instructor Anita Fedororchko ABR, RSPS, GREEN, MRP, SFR, SRES, PSA

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ST. STEPHEN UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 1344 White Oak Bottom Rd. Toms River, NJ 08755 • 732-505-6293

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or call (732) 244-8111 Course $99.00

Become a Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate Are you a compassionate and caring individual looking to make a difference in the lives of others?

Join our team of trained Forensic Nurses, Advocates and Law Enforcement!

Our no cost 40-hour training will certify you to advocate for people who have experienced sexual violence. The training infuses principles of anti-oppression and multiculturalism in every step. Advocates will gain a strong understanding of how racism, oppression, and inequality intersect with sexual violence, which will help them best serve every survivor they interact with in their role.

Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate

Spring Class 2020 • Thursday Nights 6-9pm February 13th - May 14th Toms River, NJ

Advocacy is based on the principle that the individual is the best person to make decisions in their life. Once trained you will be on call to provide crisis intervention, educational information and resources to survivors of sexual violence. All potential advocates encouraged to apply. Bilingual advocates needed.

To apply and set up an interview, contact Meghan McAleer at 609-494-1554 or mmcaleer@stfrancislbi .org

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 18, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

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)

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Dizziness is the third most common complaint to doctors, exceeded only by headaches and lower back pain. The National Institute of Health and Johns Hopkins’s statistics indicate that dizziness is the number one complaint of patients over age 70. More importantly, dizziness and vertigo can affect people throughout a lifetime and this is clearly represented by the fact that dizziness is the third most commonly reported complaint to physicians.

Dizzy patients often report that they have made several visits to physicians and were told that nothing could be done or that they would simply have to learn to live with their dizziness complaint.

If you are experiencing a sensation of vertigo or spinning or unsteadiness when you are walking, I suggest you do the following: Schedule an appointment with an

audiologist to have your hearing thoroughly evaluated since your hearing and balance mechanisms are closely related.

Specialized testing should be performed to evaluate your inner ear mechanism.

Tests may include ENG, electrocochleography and/or computerized dynamic posturography evaluation.

Specialized diagnostic testing can often pinpoint abnormalities in your vestibular system (inner ear), visual system and/ or proprioceptive system (muscular skeletal). Quite often, vestibular rehabilitation or balance retraining therapy can either eliminate and/or significantly improve the complaint of dizziness and/ or balance dysfunction.

If you or if you know of someone who is suffering from dizziness and/or balance dysfunction, I suggest that you make an appointment for a thorough diagnostic evaluation.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Northern Ocean Habitat For Humanity Wants To Help

OCEAN COUNTY – Do you know someone in need of home repairs? Are you or a neighbor struggling to maintain your home?

If so, Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity has various home repair programs available to the community including Aging in Place, Critical Home Repairs, Veteran Repair Program, Neighborhood Revitalization and Weatherization. These variety of home repair programs help low-income homeowners in northern Ocean County restore and maintain their homes. Habitat will partner with homeowners to alleviate critical health and safety issues and complete needed home improvement projects.

The selection of homeowners and repair applications is done by the Homeowner Services Committee in a way that does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, sexual orientation, age, gender t Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope and a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

The criteria for selection is based on income, need and willingness to partner. We are here to help you, a friend or a neighbor complete the application process. Please call our construction office at 732-998-8638.

POAC Hosts Adult Special Needs Yoga

TOMS RIVER – The POAC Autism Services and the Toms River Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Developmental Disabilities will be offering free yoga sessions.

The program is for young adults ages 18 and up. Family members and siblings are welcome to join. You do not have to be a resident of Toms River to attend. Be sure

to wear comfortable clothes. Please bring a yoga mat or towel.

Sessions will be taking place at the Toms River Elks Lodge #1875 600 Washington St, Toms River on the following dates: February 25 and March 3, all from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Register online at poac.net/events/ free-adult-special-needs-yoga

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 19

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

ATTENTION MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in the pages of Micromedia Publications’ quality newspapers!

Manchester Times • Berkeley Times • Toms River Times • Brick Times Jackson Times • Howell Times • Southern Ocean Times

Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Natural Strategies For Uterine Fibroids

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Uterine fibroids are benign cysts that can grow inside or outside of a woman’s womb, termed the uterus. There are many articles that address a pre-menopausal woman’s risk of fibroids, but not as many for post-menopausal women. Hysterectomy does not have to be your future! Living with the bloat doesn’t have to be your future either!

Most women can live their whole life with little fibroids and not experience any problems, and maybe not even realize they even have them! But fibroids can grow rapidly and cause a lot of lower pelvic pain, even radiating into the groin or leg. When large enough, the abdomen will swell or bloat causing you to want to wear stretchy pants, and possibly have to empty your bladder more frequently. Constipation is pretty common with fibroids.

In some cases, if the fibroid is large enough, it may actually cause tremendous discomfort and difficulty walking, sleeping or bending. In an older woman, I think it’s the pain that drives a woman into the OB/ GYN office, to find out what’s going on.

Contrarily, a woman who is younger and still cycling may have symptoms such as heavy bleeding, subsequent anemia, fatigue, infertility and of course pain, including dysorgasmia.

I’d like to offer you some natural strategies to help you try to shrink these, because so often the first thing offered is surgery!

While that may be necessary in some cases, I’m a holistic thinking pharmacist and I believe there are life-changing natural strategies that are worth a try! Talk to your physician about the following ideas. In the

order of importance: 1. Discontinue ALL hormones that you’re taking. Many post-menopausal women are supported on hormones which may be fueling the fibroid growth in an older woman.

It’s the estrogen (estradiol) that could be the specific problem.

2. Sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a dietary supplement that is basically a broccoli extract. It is used to support Phase II liver detoxification enzymes which break down estrogen properly. Sulforaphane supplements help to restore proper estrogen receptor gene expression, and interfere with tumor growth. DIM is another supplement that may help control estrogen.

3. Iodine. We assume iodine deficiency as one reason for hypothyroidism, but iodine deficiency is also strongly associated with lumpy breasts (ie fibrocystic breasts) as well as uterine fibroids. Iodine may be useful in preventing further growth of a fibroid.

4. Turmeric. Turmeric spice has been studied for its ability to shrink uterine fibroids, by binding to and activating PPAR-gamma and that in turn, shrinks a fibroid tumor/ growth. Curcumin is a stronger, standardized extract of turmeric spice.

5. Matcha Tea or EGCG Supplements.

In test tube and animal studies, cells treated with EGCG grew far more slowly and were noticeably smaller within days!

I have a longer version of this article with more natural strategies. I will email it to you once you’ve signed up for free my online newsletter at suzycohen.com. That article includes a recipe for an essential oil blend that you can apply externally for additional comfort.

(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) ©2019 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

CALL TODAY & BE SEEN! 732.657.7344

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

Nominations Are Open For The CHLP Awards

SOUTH ORANGE – The Community Health Law Project (CHLP) is currently accepting nominations for the 2020 Ann Klein Advocate Awards and Mike Lione Accessibility Award being held on October 22 at The Wilshire Grand Hotel in West Orange.

In its 33rd year, the prestigious Ann Klein Advocate Award is given to a group of

select individuals and organizations, nominated by the public, who have performed exemplary work as advocates for people living with disabilities and/or vulnerable populations.

The award is named in memory of Ann Klein, former Commissioner of the NJ Department of Human Services, whose career as a public servant, legislator and

social worker paved the way for significant advances in the human services systems throughout the State of New Jersey.

2019’s recipients included Phillip Lubitz, MSW, Associate Director, NAMI New Jersey, The National Alliance on Mental Illness; The Miracle Project, Mayo Performing Arts Center; Gina M. Plotino, Vice President, Programs and Operations,

Bergen County’s United Way, President, GMP Consulting, Inc.; Rabbi Dr. Francine Reibman, Co-founder and Co-chair Children’s Emergency Medical Fund of New Jersey; Peter Scerbo, Executive Director, (Retired) CBHCare, Inc. The Mike Lione Accessibility Award was established in 2013 in memory of long time Community Health Law Project board member and former chair Mike Lione. This award is presented to an individual or entity that has performed exemplary work as an advocate for accessibility on behalf of persons living with disabilities.

The 2019 recipient is Michael R. Dribbon, PhD, Vice President of Business Development and Chief Innovation and Research Officer, Children’s Specialized Hospital and Center for Discovery, Innovation and Development.

In its 43rd year as a statewide nonprofit advocacy and legal services organization, the CHLP has provided services to tens of thousands of individuals throughout the state. Each year, the CHLP helps nearly 5,000 NJ residents with disabilities through brief service and representation.

The Community Health Law Project is proud to honor those who strive to truly make a difference.

Award nomination deadline is April 17.

For more information, visit chlp.org or call 973-275-1175.

The Community Health Law Project is a non-profit, legal aid society founded in 1976. With a dedication to serving the legal needs of persons with disabilities throughout New Jersey, CHLP provides legal and advocacy services, training, education, and related activities to persons with disabilities and, in certain issues, to organizations representing their interests, with an emphasis on those most vulnerable and needy.

High School Theatre Company Will Perform “Shrek”

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River North Nautical Star Theatre Company proudly presents “Shrek.” There will be shows on March 19, March 20 and March 21 at 7 p.m. There will also be an additional ASL interpreted and sensory friendly show on March 21 at 2 p.m.

Regular admission is $10, seniors and students are $8. A special meet and greet event is being held March 21 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $6 or $20 for a family pack of 4, which includes snack, drink and character fun.

The play will be performed at Toms River High School North Auditorium 1245 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River.

For more information about “Shrek,” visit trnhs.booktix.com.

Horoscope See Page 31

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 21

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Consumer Rights And Data Breach

Robert C. Shea Esq.

Protecting Yourself From Identify Theft By: Dina M. Vicari, Esq. and Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

The recent data breach by Equifax meant that sensitive personal information for 145 million Americans was potentially exposed, including Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses and, in some instances, driver’s license numbers. This incident has left many consumers wondering how they can protect themselves from identify theft.

Monitor your Account Check your fi nancial account transactions regularly. Opt-in for alerts that screen for questionable transactions and opt-in for multifactor authentication.

Look for charges that you don’t recognize, even if they were for small amounts.

Sometimes scoundrels test the waters with small charges. Be aware of communications claiming to be from credit reporting agency or financial institution.

Review Credit Reports By law, all consumers are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). You can request a free credit report from annualcreditreport. com, by phone or mail. Any site other than annualcreditreport.com is not part of the legally mandated free annual credit report program. Make sure you spell the

Michael J. Deem Esq.

annualcreditreport.com domain name correctly and avoid look-alike scam sites.

Place a Freeze A credit freeze prevents new creditors from accessing your credit file and others from opening accounts in your name. A freeze could stop identity thieves because most (but not all) businesses will not open credit accounts without checking your credit report. A credit freeze does not prevent identity thieves from taking-over your existing account.

Set a fraud alert!

A fraud alert requires creditors who check your credit report to take steps to verify your identity before opening a new account, issuing additional card or increasing your credit limit on an existing account. A fraud alert is free. You can place an initial alert on your account for 90 days if you have not been a victim of identity theft.

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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Seniors Alerted Of Social Security Scam

By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – A new Social Security Scam has been traveling around the area and has been targeting senior citizens.

Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as Chairman to Senior Services, announced that all senior citizens should be aware of this potential scam where someone is imposing as a Social Security Administration (SSA) Employee.

“With Ocean County being home to more than 173,000 seniors, it is important to make sure residents are aware of scams so that they can protect themselves,” said Vicari.

“I encourage citizens to be cautious when providing information such as your Social Security number or bank information to unknown persons over the phone or the internet.”

There have been multiple reports of phone calls from someone portraying as an SSA

employee. The caller will say that the victim’s cost of living has increased and will entice the victim to give personal information over the phone such as their name, date of birth, Social Security Number and parent’s names.

With this information, the caller will contact the SSA and can request changes.

If you attain any type of skeptical call about someone claiming to be from the SSA, you should report it to the SSA, officials said.

“When handing out personal information, residents should make sure they are certain as to who is receiving the information,” Vicari said. “You must be very confident that the source is the correct business person and that your information is secure.”

For more information, residents can contact the Ocean County Office of Senior Services at 732-929-2091 or the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105.

nursing and

rehabilitation center

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Six Flags Great Adventure To Earn Certified Autism Center Status

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

Alzheimer’s Support Group

1st Saturday of Each Month at 10am (Call for details) In a Safe, Comfortable Setting Like the Home They’ve Always Known!

Specialized care for the memory impaired from your home to our home Safe & comfortable care • 24-Hour supervision • Private bedrooms Safe & secure grounds • Activities 7 days a week Fully licensed and governed under the NJ Department of Health & Senior Service.

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By Bob Vosseller JACKSON − Six Flags Great Adventure recently announced that it would earn the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

The Jackson based amusement park noted on Feb. 6, an initiative, across all 26 Six Flags Entertainment Corporation locations, will mark the first-ever family of parks to earn such a designation.

Six Flags is the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America.

Six Flags Vice President of Safety Jason Freeman said, “we are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks.”

“The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms,” Freeman added.

Many individuals and families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities find it challenging when visiting new places or planning family trips. The potential for sensory overload combined with a lack of understanding and awareness at parks and other recreational venues can often be overwhelming.

The CAC designation from IBCCES, the only credentialing board providing these services for the amusement and attractions industry, requires that at least 80% of guest-facing staff at each park complete a training and certification program through IBCCES as well as complete onsite audits and make a commitment to ongoing training.

The staff training focuses on understanding the autism spectrum and strategies for communication, guest experience, and safety, while the onsite audit will give each park techniques and guidance on additional updates.

As a Certified Autism Center, Six Flags parks will provide: • Trained, courteous, front-line team members with the ability to identify visual cues to better accommodate guests with cognitive disorders and help them enjoy their time in the parks; • A sensory guide for each ride and attraction so guests can make informed decisions about the ride experience and their level of comfort; • Special in-park sensory spaces, where guests with sensory needs can relax in a less stimulating environment; • Expanded culinary options to meet guests’ dietary needs (such as gluten-free items); and • An updated Accessibility Guide available at sixflags.com, Guest Relations and Ride

Information Centers at each park.

“IBCCES is extremely excited to work with a family of parks with this level of commitment,” Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman said. “So many families just need more communication and understanding from parks and other attractions, so they can make those memories together that we all cherish.

“In some cases, small changes can make a huge impact, and our certification program ensures each park is committed to long-term growth and understanding, not just a onetime training,” Pincomb added.

Dr. Stephen Shore said, “as a person on the spectrum, it is exciting to see more parks taking the extra steps to accommodate all guests. The commitment Six Flags is making to a true certification process is impressive and means so much to millions of individuals and families. Creating family memories and recreation are essential for both individuals with ASD and their families as a whole.”

IBCCES has been an industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe.

It provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are the only training and certification programs endorsed by the largest grassroots autism organization in the world, The Autism Society of America, and recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

The agency recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the attractions and travel industry. While many destinations tout “autism-friendly” options, this phrase means something different to everyone and does not necessarily indicate a true understanding or commitment to serving these guests.

Six Flags will also be the first network of theme parks to implement an IBCCES’ Accessibility card which is designed to help individuals with cognitive disorders or physical impairments identify and receive helpful accommodations at certified attractions worldwide.

The cards are free and may be used during all visits to Six Flags theme parks. Guests will register for the card at accessibilitycard. org.

After obtaining the card, they can visit Six Flags Great Adventure’s Ride Information Center for attraction access information that best serves their individual needs. For more information, visit sixflags.com/greatadventure.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 23

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Kind of basin 6 State secrets?

9 Intense dislike 14 Act poorly?

15 Run a tab, say 16 Words between two “thanks” 17 Chef protector 18 See 8-Down 19 Floorboard support 20 Many a Sundance film 22 Rent payer 23 Registered names: Abbr.

25 Action at the front 28 H.S. hurdle 29 Adorn 32 Comical punctuation marks from the drummer 34 Marshy lowland 35 Chihuahua, por ejemplo 36 “__ Eyes”: Ea-

gles hit 37 ‘60s campus gp.

38 Hieroglyphics reptiles 41 “Do __, not ... “ 43 Work on, as a stubborn squeak 45 Tablets’ kin 48 Swingline insert 49 2,170-mi. trail terminus 50 Walk with style 52 Luau music provider 53 Wanting too much 55 Pry 58 Cookie named for its flavor 59 Aromatic necklace 61 Stage performances 64 Words after miss or skip 65 Resting place 66 Down source 67 Singer Bruni married to Nicolas Sarkozy 68 Morning cuppa 69 Amounts to

Down 1 Leaves in a bag 2 Prankster 3 “Pillow Talk” actress 4 Lots 5 Provide with for a time 6 Montague lad 7 Blow away 8 With 18-Across, Southwestern cuisine 9 Museum pieces 10 Lucy and Ethel and Thelma and Louise 11 “Indeed!”

12 Oust, in a way 13 Church choral works 21 “Eww!” 22 Tibetan title 23 “Angie Tribeca” channel 24 Weak cry 26 Brand of blended seasonings 27 Itsy-__ 30 Inventor Howe 31 Population information

33 Book after Daniel 35 Ulysses threesome?

39 Web irritants ... and what appears in each set of puzzle circles?

40 __-screen printing 42 Faulkner’s “As __ Dying” 44 Actor Marvin of “Cat Ballou” 45 Courvoisier, e.g.

46 Speedy Gonzales cry 47 Kitchen gadget 48 OED entry 51 Words for the audience 54 Hebrew for “skyward” 56 Oil bloc 57 Hodgepodge 59 Pres. sworn in on Air Force One 60 Job listing ltrs.

62 “Is it soup __?”

63 Fourth-yr. students

(c)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

VAGUE MOTTO WINNER COHORT - WATER-TIGHT

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 24, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

BUSINESS DIRECTORY COMPLETE LINE OF WINDOW TREATMENTS Commercial

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 25

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent For Rent - Adult Community. Whiting Crestwood Vill. 5 (55+) Larger 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath and Powder Room. Porch, W/D, Garage. Not Pets. $975.00 plus utilities, Available 3/1/20. 732-604-0323.

(12) For Rent Or For Sale - New 1 BR, 1 bath homes. Adult 55+ Community, Homestead Run, Toms River. www.homesteadrun.com. 732-3702300 call today.

(12) Seaside Park - Beautiful, clean, and quiet oceanfront and oceanblock (yearly). 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with yard and parking from $1050. 908-278-5491.

(11)

Items Wanted

Services

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)

Don Carnevale Painting Specializing interiors. Some exterior.

Quality always. Very neat. Prompt courteous service. Reasonable-affordable. Senior discounts. Honest-reliable. Low rates. Free estimates.

732-899-4470 or 732-915-4075. (7)

Items For Sale

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.

(10)

Moving Sale

Power Loveseat - With console and power rocker recliner. 1 year old. $1500.00 Call 201-390-2573 (12)

Music Lessons In Your Home By state certified teacher. Available on Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone or Drums.

School students and adults welcome! Call 732-350-4427.

(10)

MOVING SALE - Toms River, 1082 Westlake Drive, Saturday, February 22, 2020, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Everything must go! Furniture, home goods, kitchenware, lamps, side tables, etc.

Come early to get the best deals!

CASH ONLY! 201-838-9180. (10)

Whirlpool Washer/ Gas Dryer Excellent condition. Not used in last 10 years. You must up. $100 each. 732-477-1849.

(10)

Pet Sitter - Dog walker, Insured and bonded. I will walk your dog and pet sit your cat. Certified in pet 1st Aid and CPR. Call or text 732-330-2889. (11)

Misc.

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. (10)

Personals Single Senior Males - 65+ Wanted for single females. Soulmate, friendship or partner. Have good standards, qualities. Leave name and number for return call. 732-678-6786. (13) Italian - American Gentleman seeks woman 65-75 yrs with same interest.

I am loving, caring, and easy going.

Loves music and dancing. Give me a call 732-207-5338.

(12)

Items Wanted Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713.

(17) $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ 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, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n) Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for Rock, Reggae, Blues, Elvis, Jazz, Metal, Psychedelic. Very Good Condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (12) 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) Buying World War I and II Helmets, hats, swords, daggers, medals, flags, Marine uniforms, women's uniforms, etc. All Countries.

Call 609-581-8290.

(10) CASH FOR RECORDS!! - Buying LPs, reel tapes, CD's, stereos, guitars, saxophones, tube amplifiers + other music related. Come to (6) you. Brian 732-804-8115.

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)

For Sale - Oak dining room set, seats 6.

215-290-7092. Whiting, NJ 08759. (9)

Wanted - To Rent. widow needs room or small apartment starting March 1st.

Leave Message 732-678-3880. (10)

Help Wanted Personal Executive Assistant - 2 days per week. Must be proficient with Excel, Salesforce CRM, Netscape CRM, Quick Books, Sales, Powerpoint and run errands. Remote position.

Experience in Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Call 973-934-1171. (11) Laundromat Attendant - For FT/PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863.

(13) Skilled Labor/Fulltime - Construction Site in Toms River. Contact Nick Nikitin. 732-261 4267.

(10) 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 toms river2nj@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) Crown Bank FT Teller Brick Cash handling preferred. Email resume martin.gorka@crownbank. net. Call 732-262-3900. $11 per hour.

We are an E.O.E. employer. M/F. Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. 273 Brick Blvd., Brick NJ 08723.

(10) 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) Marina - Join our expanding team at our new marina in Toms River.

We are seeking experienced marine mechanics, assembly techs & yard help. Great pay & benefits to qualified candidates. If you're under appreciated or under compensated contact Jared today at Jared@trkawyam.com or call 732-929-8168.

(12)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention.

Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs.

Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned.

Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (10) PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award.

Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n) 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) Cheap Painting Done Rite Free estimates. Fully insured. 38 years experience. 732-506-7787 cell 646-643-7678.

(37) Man With Van LLC Home Improvements - All Phases of Carpentry Masonry Landscaping Repairs Restorations Demolition Debris Removal Cleanouts Dumpster Service Spring Cleanups Small Tree Trimming Pruning Removal NO JOB TOO SMALL Jim 609335-0330 HIC#13VH1080600. (13) Paint Your Rooms - Fast Clean Neat, Starting At $50. Per Room. Wallpaper Removal, Exteriors, Power Washing Call 732-864-6396 Leave Voicemail.

(4)

ALL American Home Health Aides Experienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n) Need A Ride - Senior discounts.

Airports: NEW, PHIL, AC, Trenton.

Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227.

(4)

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 26, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

VILLA AMALFI

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Early Sunset Dinner Specials

New Program Created To Help Substance Abuse Disorder

1006 Rte. 166 (Lakewood Rd.) • Toms River 732-286-6044 • www.VillaAmalfiTR.com

MONDAY - FRIDAY ONLY 2:00-4:45PM

Chef ’s Specialties Rack of Lamb $24.99 • Cavatelli & Shrimp $19.99 Wild Boar $20.99 • Steak Pizzaiola $19.99 Chicken Saltimbocca $19.99 Veal Scallopine $20.99 • Zuppa Di Pesce $22.99 C R B M  M Shrimp, Chicken, Clams & Mussels finished with a light tomato broth over pasta F S Shrimp, Scallops and Flounder served with French Fries & tarter sauce S S over Risotto E P topped with mozzarella cheese and fresh tomato sauce V  P sauteed with peppers and onions with tomato basil sauce served over pasta C  S with steamed broccoli and garlic butter sauce P V tossed with grilled chicken and prosciutto in a vodka sauce C M chicken, Italian sausage, peppers & onions, mushrooms and potatoes R P sliced center cut roasted pork topped with onions and served with mashed potatoes S G stuffed with crab meat and finished in a garlic white wine sauce T C tossed in Alfredo sauce, prosciutto and peas

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15% OFF TOTAL CHECK Regular Dinners ONLY

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Sunday-Friday ONLY. No Early Bird. Expires 2/29/20.

FREE Glass of Wine with Regular Dinner

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Sunday-Friday ONLY. No Early Bird.

Expires 2/29/20.

FREE Glass of Wine with Regular Dinner

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Sunday-Friday ONLY. No Early Bird.

Expires 2/29/20.

BUY 1 ENTREE, (Up to $25.00 value)

GET 2ND ½ OFF! Cannot be combined with other offers.

Sunday-Friday ONLY. No Early Bird.

Expires 2/29/20.

All choices include soup or salad, coffee and dessert. Add soda for $1.99.

The first glass of house wine is $2.99 (additional wine regular price). Any additions or alterations to the menu $2.95 extra. Maximum of 10 people per group. Special packages available for larger groups.

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Do you need a helping hand? Well a new program has been announced that can help you or a loved one.

The Prosecutor’s Office has formed Ocean County Helping Hand (OCHH), a program that was created to identify and assist any person who is struggling with substance use disorder.

“Ocean County Helping Hand is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the New Jersey Coordinator for Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies (NJ CARES). The grant allows for some latitude in how we utilize our resources. My team and I identified a segment of the community as being at risk and under serviced regarding access to substance use disorder treatment. In researching viable options, my team and I determined there is a significant segment of the community frequently returns to our municipal courts. These are individuals that commit minor possessory and paraphernalia type offenses. They get into a little bit of trouble but they never graduate to indictable level crimes. As such,

they are never exposed to or offered any type of substance use disorder treatment.

With that in mind, we designed Ocean County Helping Hand to meet them where they are: in our municipal courts,” Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer stated.

OCHH has currently taken in 19 individuals who were screened for services and/ or treatments and will be monitored by the OCPO team for up to twelve months. The program will help assist people in multiple ways including occupational training, housing and transportation assistance, family support services, and Naloxone training.

“OCHH is another weapon in the arsenal in our war against the opioid epidemic and substance use disorder. We will continue to explore natural intersections between law enforcement and those individuals struggling from substance use disorder.

With support of our community partners, we will make progress in our ongoing effort to effectively combat the opioid epidemic in Ocean County,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded.

For more information, call 732-929-2027 or visit ocponj.gov

Friday Night Recovery Meetings

DO YOU HAVE A WILL? You and your family deserve PEACE OF MIND. PROPER PLANNING. PREVENT FAMILY IN-FIGHTING. • Estate Planning • Estate Administration • Estate Litigation

“WE BRING PEACE TO PROBATE”

Rasmussen Law • 732-595-1591 Call Today for a FREE Consultation!

OCEAN COUNTY –The Mental Health Association - Ocean County offers multiple meeting options for individuals in recovery every Friday. Times are as follows: • 6:15 p.m. Mental Health • 6:15 p.m. Men’s Group • 7:30 p.m. Double Trouble for those with both mental health and substance use disorders.

Groups are held at Journey to Wellness, 25 S. Shore Drive, Toms River. Call 732-

244-0940 for more information.

WINGS Meetings: This peer-run meeting, Wellness In Nurtured Grief Support, or WINGS, is offered to those in recovery.

Topics include death of a loved one, job loss, divorce, and other loss that is related to substance use. Participants are offered support, understanding and coping strategies.

WINGS meets at 5:45 p.m. on Mondays at Journey to Wellness, 25 S. Shore Drive, Toms River. Call 848-480-0905.

Students Learn About DART Prevention

OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer was honored to speak to the 8th and 9th grade students in Point Pleasant Borough prior to “Anytown.”

“Anytown” is a musical performance that focuses on the effects of opioid abuse and its’ origins as it relates to student athletes

and their families. The DART Coalition, George Street Playhouse and Point Pleasant Borough Schools Superintendent Vincent Smith educated the students about the dangers of opioid abuse and the importance of making smart decisions and avoiding peer pressure.

Belmar/Lake Como Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Fundraiser Program

BELMAR – Join in for the 2020 Belmar/ Lake Como Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Fundraiser Program. The following is a schedule of events: • Feb. 23: Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, 815 16th Avenue, Belmar, 2 to 6 p.m. Entertainment – Hot & Cold Buffet. Donation $15.

Call 732-681-7576.

• Feb. 29: Investiture Mass at St. Rose

Church, 601 7th Avenue, Belmar, 10 a.m.

Investiture Luncheon immediately following at Mike Doolan’s, Rt. 71, Spring Lake Heights, NJ. Luncheon Donation $35. Call 732-681-6171.

• March 1: Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, 12:30 p.m., Main Street, Lake Como & Belmar.

For information, call 732-280-2648 or email info@belmarparade.com.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 27

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Girl Scouts Of The Jersey Shore Announces Annual Gala

FARMINGDALE – Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore will host its annual Women of Distinction & Community Partners Gala on Friday, March 20, at Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club in Farmingdale.

A distinguished group of Jersey Shore leaders and a community-minded business will be honored at the event, which will take place from 6-11 p.m. The annual gala raises vital funds that enable girls in Monmouth and Ocean counties to access Girl Scout programs and experiences, which empower them to become women of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

The 2020 gala honorees are: Women of Distinction: • Anne M. Davis, an attorney with offices in Brick • Christine Hanlon, Monmouth County clerk • Frances Keane, vice president of human resources, CentraState Healthcare Systems and chairwoman of the Girl Scouts Board of Directors • Dana Lancellotti, director of business development and tourism, Ocean County • Dr. Janice Warner, interim provost, Georgian Court University

Community Partner: • Lakewood BlueClaws, an affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, and long-time supporter of Girl Scouts Man Enough to be a Girl Scout Member of the Year: • Wayne Boatwright, vice president of diversity and inclusion, Hackensack Meridian Health Girls Scouts is honored to have Tom Hayes and Teri O’Connor return as gala co-chairs.

Hayes serves as director of consumer and community relations at New Jersey Natural Gas and O’Connor is county administrator for Monmouth County and first vice chairperson of the Girl Scouts Board of Directors.

Individual gala tickets are $225 and include a cocktail reception, dinner, music, gift auctions and raffle, plus introductions of gala honorees from Girl Scouts who have earned the Gold Award and those on their way to achieving this top Girl Scout honor.

Tickets, sponsorships and ads for the event journal may be purchased online at gsfun.org/ gala. For more information about opportunities to support the event, including auction donations, call 800-785-2090 or e-mail gala@ jerseyshoregirlscouts.org.

BILL’S BILL’S UPHOLSTERY UPHOLSTERY WINTER FABRIC SALE!

6 DINING ROOM SEATS: Fabric, Foam & Labor

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

00 + TAX

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

732-270-0622

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

609-494-7880 Beach Haven Area

609-597-2676 Manahawkin Area

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

Shop-At-Home Service

20% OFF

SELECTED FABRICS

Wide selection of fabrics to choose from!

Coupon must be presented at time of order.

Exp. 2/29/20.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 28, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020 WE DO CUSTOM CAKES & PIES!

READY FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT? Soft Serve Ice Cream is a wonderful addition to any event, including but not limited to:

Carnivals · Fireworks · Fairs & Festivals · Weddings Birthday Parties (Any Age) · Bar/Bat Mitzvahs · Quinceanera Employee Appreciation · School Functions · Graduations Food Truck Round-Ups · Beef & Beer Gatherings Block Parties · TV/Film Shoots · Retail Sales Promotions ETC...

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE New BlueClaws Uniforms Are A Home Run

VISIT US AT OUR NEW LOCATION AT:

229 Atlantic City Blvd., Beachwood, NJ 08722 Hours: Sun-Thurs 12-9pm · Fri-Sat 12-10pm Looking for fundraising ideas? Have us at your event, and we will donate a portion of our sales.

Call to Book Today 856-701-8937

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

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

www.TomsRiverOnline.com » 732-929-0730

−Photo courtesy Lakewood BlueClaws

By Alyssa Riccardi LA K EWOOD – This summer, the BlueClaws will be sporting brand new and unique beach-themed uniforms. This shirt and hat outfit were customized just for the team, the hat having a playing color scheme of reds, blues and yellows like a beach ball, with a sand-colored brim.

Showcasing the BlueClaws logo at the front of the cap, the adorable little blue crab is embroidered and is wearing a beach pail as its shell. The shirt is a light blue color with royal blue sleeves and red pipping to accent. The BlueClaws logo is also shown on the left side of the jersey.

“We’re very excited to debut this alternate uniform in 2020,” said Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Over the last several years, we have brought elements of the Jersey Shore to the ballpark, and this is another logical step. Our team is going to look fantastic and we can’t wait to debut them on April 16th!”

The BlueClaws are set to dress in the new uniforms for every Thursday home game for the 2020 summer season.

There is also new merchandise that fans can purchase in the Claws Cove gift shop and online at BlueClaws.com/shop Throughout the past couple of years, the BlueClaws have seen numerous amounts of additions to the ball park that have significantly made the place have a more fun and friendly atmosphere. Some of these upgrades include a family mini golf course

by right field which was added in 2018.

The Toyota World of Lakewood Home Run Pavilion was also added in 2018 and incorporates five classic boardwalk games that kids and adults can play. For adults, BlueClaws opened up a Biergarten where they host Thirsty Thursdays presented by 95.9 WRAT and the Coors Light Summer Concert Series.

“These ballpark enhancements have further driven home the BlueClaws’ commitment to affordable, family entertainment here at the Jersey Shore,” said Ricciutti. “In particular this year, we’re going to reach 8-million fans and celebrate 20 years at the Shore. It’s a great time to be a BlueClaws fan.”

Right now, 2020 BlueClaws Membership Plans are available for purchase. As a member, you will receive premium items, plus a hot dog, soda and ice cream at each game.

You can also purchase boardwalk bundle tickets which are $15 and consist of a reserved seat ticket, a hot dog, soda, novelty ice cream, and game ticket for the Toyota World of Lakewood Home Run Pavilion.

For more information, visit BlueClaws.com.

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!

CALL 732.657.7344 TO FIND OUT HOW!!

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 29

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Man Involved In Ocean County Shooting & All Day Manhunt Indicted

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – A New Haven, Connecticut man who led police on a chase to New York City has been indicted on charges of attempted murder, kidnapping, unlawful possession of a fi rearm for an unlawful purpose and multiple other charges.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Miguel Angel-Villegas, 29, was indicted on multiple charges including that of being a certain person not to possess a weapon; burglary; eluding; aggravated assault; aggravated assault; hindering apprehension or prosecution; and resisting arrest.

Angel-Villegas is currently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending arraignment.

Tuckerton Borough Police performed a motor vehicle stop in which Angel-Villegas was a passenger on Nov. 21.

During that stop, the vehicle pulled away at a very high speed and collided with an-

other vehicle, injuring that vehicle’s driver at which point Angel-Villegas exited the vehicle, pulled out a fi rearm and began firing at the responding police officer.

Angel-Villegas later fled on foot and was apprehended later the same night by the United States Marshals Service and members of the New York City Police Department just outside of Penn Station, New York City.

An investigation by Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit detectives revealed that Angel-Villegas had previously threatened to kill his then-girlfriend – the driver of the vehicle -- if she did not drive him from Connecticut to New Jersey.

According to police findings, he ordered her to provide the Tuckerton Borough Police Officer with a fictitious name and threatened her with a handgun, forcing her to speed away from the officer during the motor vehicle stop.

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OCC Alumna Honored At Luncheon

By Alyssa Riccardi OCEAN COUNTY – Hailey Dries, an Ocean County College alumna, was declared a “Woman of the Year” at the 28th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Award Luncheon.

As the two-year starting pitcher for the OCC Vikings Softball team from 2017

to 2019, Dries has earned both NJCAA All-Region XIX and All-Garden State Athletic Conference Team honors in both of her seasons played.

She ended her OCC athletic career ranked first in team history with 249 total strikeouts, and tied for first with 26 wins.

Library To Collect Prom Dresses & Tuxedos

MANCHESTER – The Ocean County Library is holding their 12th Annual Prom Dress Giveaway. The event will bring joy to young women and men, who prior to this charitable event, were unable to attend their Spring Formal or Prom.

Short and long styles are accepted within

the last 5 years, dry cleaned items are preferred, no rips, tears or stains. Accessories, shoes and purses will not be accepted.

Dresses and tuxedos will be accepted at all locations of The Ocean County Library now through March 12.

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

PROMPT & PROFESSIONAL REPRESENTATION

www.sfhlaw.com

Preferred Company

Live Talk Radio!

On Air and Online

Hosted by

Joel & Fran

Volunteers Needed For Hospice Care

OCEAN COUNTY - Compassionate Care Hospice is looking for volunteers who are willing to give companionship to a patient and their family.

This is a gift one gives to themselves as

the rewards are abounding – to help another at this time in their lives. For more information contact Volunteer Coordinator Kathleen O’Connell at 914-275-5766 or e-mail her at kathleen.oconnell@cchnet.net

New Discussion Group To Form

OCEAN COUNTY – A Zionist/Israel discussion group now being formed in the Ocean County area. Be a part of something important.

The group will discuss books, authors, websites, events and much more.

For more information, text or call 732551-4869.

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!

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

“Great show this morning...great conversation.”

- Adrienne, Red Bank

“I love the show!

I wake up every morning with you.”

- Jill, Bricktown

Monday-Friday 8 AM-10 AM 1160 & 1310 WOBM-AM

“LOVE THE SHOW!” - Anne, Lakewood

800-603-CARE PreferredRadio.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 30, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020 LIC# HP0288000

ON CALL CARE

Loving & Dependable Home Health Care

LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED CHHA’s, Hourly Care, Live-Ins Personal Care • Meals • Shopping • Medication Reminders Transportation • House Cleaning • Respite • Hospice

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Ocean County Mall To Host A ‘ZOMBIES 2’ Event

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County Mall invites the community to a “ZOMBIES 2” event, aimed at entertaining and delighting children of all ages. The event will take place on February 22 from 12 to 2 p.m.

Ocean County Mall will have a children’s fashion show featuring spring fashions from Macy’s and JC Penney. The event will have children’s entertainment including a magic show, excellent prizes, crafts and demonstrations from local businesses and will be emceed by B98.5FM. During the event, families will be able to participate in a variety of activities including a craft project to create their own “ZOMBIES 2” sling bag, an exclusive photo opportunity, and various giveaways. The fun starts in Center Court. This event does

not include live character appearances.

Disney’s “ZOMBIES 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to the Disney Channel Original Movie “ZOMBIES,” is a music and dance filled story that picks up as cheerleader Addison and zombie football player Zed are readying for Seabrook High’s Prawn, the school’s super-sized prom. However, the arrival of a new group of outsiders, mysterious werewolves, threatens to shake up Seabrook’s newfound peace and causes a rift in Zed and Addison’s budding romance. “ZOMBIES 2” premieres February 14 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel.

For more information visit simon.com/ mall/ocean-county-mall for the latest mall events and retailer updates.

Church Hosting Mustard Seeds Play Group

NOW HIRING Join the Exciting World of Local News Media!

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

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

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

TOMS RIVER – The Presbyterian Church of Toms River created a playgroup exclusively for children ages 1 to 5 years old who are accompanied by a parent. Mustard Seeds offers children some great free time to play in the gym with tons of toys as they also meet new friends. Listen to Bible Stories, make special crafts, sing and play!

Mustard Seeds is a place where parents/ guardians can meet one another and begin to build a solid support base of Christian

friendship. What a blessing it is to share the joys and woes of day-to-day family life with others in a relaxed, caring, atmosphere.

Mustard Seeds meets 1st Friday of each month through June from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. located at 1070 Hooper Ave., Toms River.

For more information about the Children’s Ministry Programs at PCTR contact Michael Barozzie, Director of Children’s Ministry at michaelb@pctr.org or 732-3491331 x 226.

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The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020, Page 31

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of feb 22 - feb 28

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): As this week unfolds, your desire for excitement could begin to wear thin on others. You like to stir things up but should remember to keep your promises. Someone might be immune to your obvious charms.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may receive more attention than expected. You can be a dynamic leader whenever there is something new to try since you are willing to experiment. In the week to come your love life could be intriguing.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Talk your way to the top. In the week ahead, your words can have an impact whether you are talking about business or discussing your goals. One of your loved ones could be unpredictable in the week ahead.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Keep your ear to the ground. Although conversations can be distracting, you will hear some useful bits of information, especially during the first half of the week. Use your financial savvy to enrich your bottom line.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A partner may be enthusiastic about helping you with one of your projects. Work together in the first half of the week for the best results. You are especially astute about financial matters and can make practical decisions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Tell it like it is. During the upcoming week you could have a change of heart, but if you are honest about your feelings, a loved one will be understanding. You may be asked to donate to a group’s good cause.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You might not

have much of a chance for romance as the week unfolds. Although your heart is filled to the brim with affection, practical matters could take precedence. Enjoy some happy changes to your plans.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your good sense when handling financial affairs might brighten your reputation. Your workplace might be a center for social exchanges, or your friends might need some help with a fun project in the upcoming week.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t just hope that the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow will land in your lap. In the week to come, you can use your expertise to make money. Tackle problems with resourcefulness and ingenuity.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): All you need to do is faithfully keep your promises in the week ahead. You might see the advantage in altering plans, but this might upset someone in your family unit. Find a compromise to prevent disputes.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When you hear about a new idea or application, you readily see the possibilities and eagerly incorporate it into your daily routines. A partner may be adept at making savvy business decisions in the week ahead.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): People are willing to accept your decisions, although you may change your mind frequently. During the week ahead, you may purchase things that don’t suit your lifestyle because you want to be more logical.

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wolfgang puck’s kitchen Pie Games: Global Ingredients Combine To Make A Perfect Wintertime Pizza

By Wolfgang Puck Nowadays, pizza is more than just an Italian specialty. You’ll find people enjoying it wherever you travel around the world, from America to England to Japan to Qatar and beyond.

I’m happy to have played some part in spreading that popularity, since I first began giving pizzas a new contemporary California spin at the first location of Spago I opened in Hollywood back in early 1982. Before then, not many people could have imagined pizzas topped with such gourmet and internationally influenced ingredients as duck sausage, smoked salmon with caviar, chicken with Mexican jalapeno peppers, or even something as far removed from most pizza lovers’ thinking as Peking duck! But we decided from the beginning to be inventive and have as much fun making pizza as people have eating it. The results definitely caught on.

To me, pizza is a food to enjoy year round, whatever the occasion. And the wide range of topping ingredients available now makes it possible to adapt pizzas to any time of year and any occasion. The following recipe is a fine example of that approach.

It traces back to the early days of Spago, combining ingredients from Italy, Asia, France and Germany to make a hearty yet refined tasting dish I find perfect for wintertime.

Black Forest ham is a high-quality deli meat produced in the mountainous Black Forest region of southwestern Germany. I’ve always enjoyed its hearty yet refined, sweet and slightly spicy flavor, which results from curing, aging, cold-smoking and air-curing the meat over several weeks. Being prepared at cool temperatures, true Black Forest ham looks like a raw food rather than a cooked product, and it’s generally eaten like the similarly appearing Italian prosciutto, cut into thin, almost translucent slices. Those are the sort of slices you should start with for the pizza, either cut for you to order at a deli counter or purchased pre-sliced in a vacuum-sealed package at most well-stocked supermarkets.

To complement this featured ingredient, my pizza also includes silky, earthy slices of pan-grilled or sauteed slender Japanese or Asian-style eggplants, which have a milder flavor and fewer seeds than the larger globe varieties. Along with the mixture of Italian fontina and mozzarella cheeses I enjoy on just about all my pizzas, I also add some fresh, creamy goat cheese like French chevre or one of the excellent varieties now produced in America.

This eclectic combination of toppings adds up to a worldly pizza that feels at once both sophisticated and down-to-earth, refined and heartily comforting - a perfect casual main dish for you to warm up with when the weather outside feels cold and blustery.

BLACK FOREST HAM AND GOAT CHEESE PIZZA Makes 4 individual pizzas 1 batch Wolfgang’s Pizza Dough (recipe follows), divided into 4 balls All-purpose flour or semolina, for dusting 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup (250 mL) shredded fontina cheese 2 cups (500 mL) shredded mozzarella cheese,

about 1/2 pound (250 g), or an equivalent weight in thinly sliced fresh mozzarella 2 small slender Japanese eggplants, trimmed and cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch (6-mm) slices, brushed with oil and grilled until tender, or sauteed in olive oil; or 1/2 pound large cultivated mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) slices and sauteed in olive oil until golden 1 cup (250 mL) crumbled fresh goat cheese 4 ounces (125 g) thinly sliced Black Forest ham, cut into thin julienne strips 1 bunch fresh basil leaves, 4 small sprigs reserved for garnish, remaining leaves chopped Set an oven rack at the highest level, place a pizza stone or baker’s tiles on the rack, and preheat to 500 F (260 C).

Roll or stretch each piece of pizza dough into a circle 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter.

One at a time, place a circle of dough on a wood peel (paddle) or rimless baking sheet lightly dusted with flour or semolina. Brush with oil and sprinkle with some pepper flakes to taste. Arrange a quarter each of the fontina and mozzarella on the dough, leaving a narrow rim. Arrange a quarter each of the eggplant, goat cheese and ham on top. Sprinkle with chopped basil.

Slide the pizza from the peel onto the baking stone.

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rim is deep golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes.

Using the peel, remove the pizza from the oven.

With a pizza wheel, mezzaluna, or large sharp knife, cut into slices, then transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with a basil sprig. Serve immediately, letting guests take individual slices.

Assemble, bake and serve the three remaining pizzas the same way.

WOLFGANG’S PIZZA DOUGH Makes 4 balls, each about 6 ounces (185 g) 1 package active dry or fresh yeast 1 teaspoon honey 1 cup (250 mL) warm water, 105 F to 115 F (40 C to 46 C) 3 cups (750 mL) all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and honey in 1/4 cup (60 mL) of the warm water.

In a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Add the oil, the yeast mixture, and the remaining water, and process until the mixture forms a ball.

Turn the dough out onto a clean work surface and knead by hand 2 or 3 minutes longer. The dough should be smooth and firm. Cover with a clean, damp towel and let rise in a cool spot for about 2 hours. (When ready, the dough will stretch as it is lightly pulled).

Divide the dough into 4 equal balls. Work each by pulling down the sides and tucking under the bottom. Repeat four or five times. Then on a smooth, unfloured surface, roll each under the palm of your hand until the top is smooth and firm, about 1 minute. Cover with a damp towel and let rest 1 hour. At this point, the balls can be wrapped in plastic and refrigerated for up to two days.

(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) © 2020 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 32, The Toms River Times, February 22, 2020

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