2021-01-02 - The Berkeley Times

The BERKELEY Times Vol. 26 - No. 29

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Hindsight Is 2020:

In This Week’s Edition

BREAKING NEWS @

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Glimmer Of Hope As Healthcare Workers Vaccinated

The Year’s Best Photos

−Photo by Chris Lundy Lily Fitzpatrick and Cassidi Martin get creative during a Drawing and Painting class.

−Photo by Chris Lundy The headquarters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9503 is located on Veterans Boulevard.

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Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 14

−Photo by Alyssa Riccardi Austin Paladino, 6, dressed as a police officer, tries his hand at the dunk tank at the Vest-ACop in Toms River.

Dear Pharm Page 15

Inside The Law Page 17

Classifieds Page 18

−Photo by Bob Vosseller St. Patrick’s Day Parade marchers take to the street in Seaside.

By Chris Lundy JERSEY SHORE – While a lot happened this year that no one will want to recall, there were also some memorable moments captured by photographers.

Every year, this newspaper presents the best photo taken during the year by staff members.

Most of these ran with articles, but some of these are being seen here for the first time.

More Waste To Be Stored At Oyster Creek

By Bob Vosseller LACEY – A settlement has been reached to end multiple litigations between Lacey Township and Holtec International.

The agreement will permit additional nuclear waste to be sort-

ed outside the former Oyster Creek Generating Station previously owned by Exelon.

Members of the Lacey Pla n n i ng Boa rd voted to approve a settlement agreement that would dissolve lawsuits launched by

the township toward Holt e c, a s wel l a s Holtec toward Lacey.

A public hearing was required to be held before the measure could be voted on according to Planning Board Attorney Terry Brady.

(Waste - See Page 6)

−Photo by Bob Vosseller Some of the 279 students who attend the new OCVTS Performing Arts Academy on the campus of OCC enter the doors on their first day of class on January 6.

Toms River Regional Starts Year With Interim Superintendent

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – Thomas Gialanella was chosen as interim superintendent by the Board of Education to replace David Healy, who retired.

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By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – Government officials were on hand when COVID-19 vaccines were being administered to healthcare workers, warning that the vaccine is the light at the end of the tunnel, but we are still in the tunnel.

The vaccines were being given to healthcare workers at a drive-through vaccination site in the parking lot of Ocean Health Initiatives off of Lakehurst Road in Toms River.

Right now, the vaccines are being given to people working in these categories: hospitals, long care facilities, outpatient clinics, home health care, pharmacies, emergency medical services, and public health.

People had registered online for an opportunity to take their first dose of the vaccine, and then come back 28 days later for their second dose. Some were a bit surprised to see the fanfare of journalists taking photos and video of their vaccinations for local and national news.

They were on hand for the press conference that morning at the facility. Gov. Phil Murphy, Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli, Congressman Andy Kim, and Freeholder Director Joseph Vicari were among the officials who visited Ocean Health Initiatives to celebrate the initial rollout of the vaccine.

Persichilli commended OHI, a federally qualified health center, on getting the vaccine out to frontline healthcare workers. These workers are more likely to be exposed to the virus directly or indirectly.

“The vaccine is safe and efficacious,” she said.

In 2021, the state will have more than 200 sites set up that will be vaccination areas, she said.

The goal is to get 70 percent of eligible adults vaccinated in six months.

“Today is the day we’ve been dreaming of,” said Congressman Kim (D-3rd). “Hopefully, we’re turning the corner on the pandemic.”

As the son of a geneticist and a nurse, he said the medical and science communities are heroes, and he’s seen these heroes step up during our darkest times.

The vaccine is very important to Ocean County because it has the highest population of senior citizens in the state and possibly the (Vaccinated - See Page 9)

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The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 3

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Page 4, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

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Superintendent:

Continued From Page 1 Previously, Gialanella had been the superintendent for Jackson and served as an interim for Brick, where he had also taught.

He also served as interim superintendent the last time Toms River had a superintendent search.

Gialanella will be paid $750 a day, and the position is expected to run January 1 until the end of June. The Asbury Park Press reported that Gialanella took a leave of absence from his current position as executive director of school relations for Ocean County College.

David Healy retired from the superintendent position, with the end of 2020 as his last days. He originally came to the district in 2014.

During his tenure, he has shepherded the district through good times and bad. The coronavirus pandemic came at a time when the district was being given significantly less state aid. He was a district cheerleader, bringing busses of residents and officials to Trenton to make some noise.

Healy led efforts to get a $147 million referendum passed to make capital improvements to the district’s many buildings.

This effectively made sure that the district’s maintenance continued while state aid took a hit. He also instituted green initiatives that saved energy, and by extension, saved money as well.

“We are in a much better place moving forward,” Board President Anna Polozzo said.

She listed off other accomplishments, including full-day kindergarten, higher test scores, improvements in special education resources and equity, and a restoration of public trust.

“We have been able to do all of these things under Superintendent Healy’s leadership,” she said.

The district achieved recognition as a “high performing district” in 2020, and was “Distinguished Organization of the Year” in 2017. This is a long way from the chaos of

Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and the arrest of a previous superintendent, Michael Ritacco, for financial crimes in 2010.

“He helped us out of a hole,” Board member Joseph Nardini said. “He’s the man.”

Business Administrator William Doering remarked on his professionality and 24/7 commitment to the district.

“So much effort has gone into preserving and saving our district,” Doering said. “Dave put himself out there … and he did that to save our district, and he did it with passion and conviction because it mattered to him.

“You have my gratitude,” Doering said, “and I believe the gratitude of our regional community. Our kids in the district are the beneficiaries of your leadership and effort for a long time to come.”

Healy thanked the board and the community for the support he received throughout his time leading the district, and echoed Polozzo’s statements regarding the remarkable quality of the district’s teachers, staff members, and administrators. He acknowledged that the task before him was great, and could not have been accomplished without the backing of board members, colleagues, and families throughout the greater Toms River area.

“I took that responsibility ... incredibly seriously,” Healy said before pausing to gather himself, clearly filled with emotion at the retrospective of his TRRS career.

“Actions speak louder than words,” said outgoing board member Michael Horgan, commending Healy for a proactive style which honored his promises. “People can disagree with decisions,” Horgan added, “… [but] really, the effort that you’ve put into the district, I don’t think that can really be questioned.”

Healy expressed great confidence in Gialanella; thanked outgoing board members Horgan and Ginny Rhine for their contributions; and confirmed that he’d met with new board members Ashley Palmiere and Lisa Contessa, and was left very impressed.

“We’re in good hands,” he said.

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The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 5

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Page 6, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

Waste:

Continued From Page 1 The litigation concerned aspects of Holtec International’s ongoing decommissioning of the nuclear power plant which was the oldest operating facility of its type until it ceased operation in recent years.

The in-person forum was held at the courtroom/municipal building and addressed Holtec’s application to add 20 fuel storage models (bringing it up to 68) on the site.

The Agreement The Planning Board unanimously voted to approve a resolution prepared by Brady who read the lengthy agreement during the meeting. It allows Holtec to move nuclear waste from the facility’s cooling pool into 20 new steel and concrete storage casks.

There are 48 casks currently present at the site, west of Route 9.

The new settlement permits the addition of 20 new storage casks, a security fence and the construction of a cask transfer pad on the already developed portion of the site. The cask site is intended as temporary. The federal government hasn’t approved a permanent location to store nuclear waste.

Holtec has applied to build an interim storage site in southeast New Mexico and if its application is approved, such material would be removed from Lacey to that location. Holtec has yet to reveal details of how the waste would be transferred or approved by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Holtec’s website suggests a rail line would be used.

Regina Discenza was the only resident to speak during the public hearing. She commented after the meeting, “I think it’s

hysterical that they think they’re moving the spent fuel to New Mexico, ever!”

It was recently reported that Holtec will receive $116 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to start a program to build small, modular nuclear reactors in the United States.

The firm’s new plant design is intended to prevent reactors from overheating to avert a nuclear meltdown. This new reactor design has not yet received license approval.

Prior to the meeting New Jersey Sierra Club Director Jeff Tittel issued a statement saying it was “critical that Lacey Township turns down this application that would allow Holtec to expand their facility and deposit more nuclear casks.

This process heightens the risk of major accidents and spills, threatening the health and safety of the community and the environment.”

Tittel was critical of the live format of the forum. “it’s shameful that in the middle of a public health emergency, the Lacey Planning Board is still going forward with an in-person public hearing for Holtec’s new application and settlement for its decommissioning plan of Oyster Creek. This isn’t just some small-time application; we are talking about radioactive waste.”

The Lacey Planning Board unanimously rejected Holtec’s application on September 14.

Holtec had recently filed a lawsuit concerning its proposal to decommission the power plant.

Planning Board members stated at the time that there were serious concerns that the radioactive waste would never leave the township. The board declared Holtec “mischaracterized” its project as a temporary storage site, contending the fi rm offered “absolutely no representation

as to how many decades or even centuries the ‘temporary’ storage will last.”

Holtec said their application for additional casks and other changes at the 140-acre site “met all of Lacey Township’s land use and development regulations.” Their suit brought in the Ocean County Superior Court describes the board’s decision as “an active display of bias” against Holtec.

It asserted the board violated the state’s Municipal Land Use Law, as well as local ordinances and state regulations. In addition to the order of restraint in Ocean County and an investigation for their Camden facility, Holtec is also facing a court challenge against their effort to build a storage site for U.S. nuclear waste in New Mexico.

Lacey Committeeman Mark Dykoff was present at the Planning Board meeting as a liaison to the Township Committee.

He spoke last month during a Committee meeting about a meeting that had been held which may have laid the ground work of the evening’s settlement agreement.

Dykoff was among those at that meeting.

“Holtec put up a planning board application that was denied for a variety of reasons. Myself, attorney Jerry Dasti and Patrick Barber, Committeeman (Timothy) McDonald, Business Administrator Veronica Laureigh and the Planning Board attorney as well, met with representatives of Holtec and Dr. (Hearst) Singh.”

“Holtec is a privately owned company, owned by Dr. Hearst Singh and he calls the shots. It was a very fruitful meeting and he told us things in two to 10 minutes that I didn’t know about decommissioning. We did discuss that as always, we need better communication,” Dykoff said.

Dykoff added, “from Holtec’s standpoint, they said the communication was there but

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we need them to walk us through it. We’re infants in this so we need to learn to walk.

There are a lot of things going on behind the scenes that we can’t really let the public be privy to because of pending litigation, ongoing negotiations, and things like that.”

“We want the quickest, safest decommissioning of Oyster Creek which is why we went to Camden to meet Dr. Singh and his group, to try and get some assurances and ideas of what is going to go there,” Dykoff added.

The public has voiced concerns about Holtec’s plan to move still-hot nuclear waste out of water pools and into dry cask storage in half the usual time of around five years. The company has stated their casks are proprietary and have not disclosed details about their design to the public.

According to environmentalists, until the rods are out of the spent-fuel pools and put into dry cask storage, the plant is extremely vulnerable. If there is a power outage, storm surge, or flood, the rods could melt down and create serious public health and environmental damage.

“It is alarming that Holtec wants to ship nuclear waste from New Jersey, New England, and New York to New Mexico.

This nuclear waste would travel through New Jersey, putting our communities at risk from an accident or terrorist attack.

They are trying to ship this waste by barge, truck or rail and could create a mobile Chernobyl. This is not a solution, this is a disaster waiting to happen,” Tittel said in a prepared statement.

“If they aren’t storing the nuclear rods correctly, it could lead to environmental or public safety problems down the road.

New Jersey needs to step in to make sure that they are following safety protocols and to ensure transparency.”

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The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 7

sPoTLIGhT on GoVernMenT Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

From The Desk Of

The Mayor - By Berkeley Mayor

Carmen F. Amato, Jr. The Township Council and I would like to wish you and your family a joyous holiday season and a very Happy New Year. Together, we are looking forward to a prosperous 2021 for Berkeley Township and all of its residents.

This past year, 2020, has certainly been challenging for everyone. As you know, the federal and state governments declared a Medical State of Emergency due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

We have experienced “Stay at Home” orders and mandatory closures of all non-essential businesses and limited openings of essential businesses as well. Due to safety concerns, government buildings closed and schools went to virtual learning.

I would like to thank all of our public employees who came to work each and every day providing our taxpayers the important services our residents have come to expect. I would also like to thank our first responders, medical professionals and ALL essential workers who contributed during this pandemic.

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a negative impact on our community. As of this writing, nearly 1,900 residents have contracted the virus and sadly, we lost 122 residents.

As Mayor, along with the Township Council, we will continue to do what needs to be done to keep our residents safe and secure.

I would also like to thank all of you, our residents, who have been doing their part to help “Flatten the Curve”. We are all looking forward to 2021 with a great deal of hope of returning to a “normal” daily routine.

As we proceed into the new year, our emphasis will remain on long range financial stability, additional public infrastructure improvements and our commitment to providing the important services that our residents have come to expect.

We are extremely proud to have one of the lowest OVERALL property taxes in the

STATE and the 2nd lowest OVERALL property taxes in OCEAN COUNTY. I wish to thank the members of the Township Council who have worked with me to keep costs down. The average Berkeley Township homeowner pays less than half of the statewide average property tax bill. That is a significant accomplishment we can all be proud of.

Standards & Poor’s rating service, in the mists of the pandemic, affirmed our bond rating at AA-. In 2018, they increased Berkeley’s bond rating from an A+ to an AA-. Maintaining an AA- rating affirms our stable financial outlook and is based on the Township’s strong budgetary performance, flexibility and very strong liquidity. Once again we are extremely pleased that S&P has recognized the extreme effort we have made to be financially responsive to our taxpayers despite these difficult economic times. The upgrade to AA- marked the second time in five years that S&P has increased Berkeley’s Bond Rating. In 2015, Berkeley moved up two notches from A- to A+ and in 2018 improved a notch to AA-.

Considering what we’ve endured in the last nine-years, I am really proud of what we’ve done to keep Berkeley Township an affordable place to live for all of our residents.

My administration has been extremely aggressive in applying for and receiving grant funding from various agencies. Since I became mayor, over the last nine years Berkeley Township has received over $15 million in grant funding. The grant funding we received has addressed funding new police officers, bullet proof vests, DWI enforcement and body cameras for the Police Department. The grant awards have also funded road repair, recycling, Sandy recovery, tourism, the environment, improving our parks and repairing our public buildings. We have aggressively pursued every available funding source to ensure we keep the tax burden on residents as low as possible. Berkeley Township has never been on a more fiscally sound footing.

I want you to be aware of some Property Tax Relief benefit programs that the State of New Jersey administers: Homestead Benefit: New Jersey residents

Kim: Bill Would Save Jobs During COVID-19 Pandemic

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03), Congressman Peter King (NY-02) and Congressman Thomas Suozzi (NY-03) introduced the Save Jobs During the Pandemic Act, a bipartisan bill that would provide temporary relief to taxpayers who face a BEAT (base erosion and anti-abuse tax) liability for taxable year 2020

due to the pandemic’s economic impact, without undermining the base erosion effectiveness of the provision in the long-term.

The economic crisis has caused many companies to incur outsized BEAT liabilities due to receiving less income while still leasing essential equipment for their business. These (Jobs - See Page 8)

who owned and occupied a home in New Jersey that was their principal residence on October 1, 2016, might be eligible for a homestead benefit provided property taxes were paid and certain income limits are met. If you have any questions call the Homestead Benefit Hotline at 1-877658-2972.

Property Tax Reimbursement: The Property Tax Reimbursement (PTR) Program reimburses eligible senior citizens or disabled persons for property tax increases.

Eligible residents must file a Property Tax Reimbursement Application Form PTR-1 or PTR-2. PTR-1 forms are available at Town Hall or if you have any questions call the Property Tax Reimbursement Hotline at 1-800-882-6597.

The Township administers the following two benefits: Senior Citizens’ Annual Property Tax Deduction: Annual deduction of up to $250 from property taxes for home-owners age 65 or older or disabled who meet a requirement of less than $10,000 in income, excluding Social Security benefits, and meet a residency requirement.

Veterans’ Deduction: Annual deduction from taxes due on real or personal property paid to qualified war veterans and their unmarried surviving spouses. The deduction is $250.

If you have any questions on these programs, please call The Tax Assessor’s Office at (732) 244-7400 ext. 1226 or Email taxassessor@twp.berkeley.nj.us.

The Township’s administrative staff and I have been very busy making some great changes to make things easier for all of our residents and improve communication. I’m very proud and excited to tell you about a few of the changes we have made:

• You can now pay your property taxes online. We have also installed a drop box so residents can pay their taxes after Town Hall is closed.

• The town has instituted a “see something, say something” campaign, where you can call our tip line 24 hours a day to report suspicious activities at 732-341-1132 ext. 611 • We have completely revamped our website to make contact and obtaining information much easier, you can report a pothole at berkeleytownship.org • We now have a Facebook page where you can stay informed of events going on in Berkeley Township.

• Our local Channel 22 also has information on events going on in town.

• We have instituted an emergency notification system called Nixle. You can go to the township website to sign up for emergency calls and texts to your phone.

• We have a new online citizen portal for our construction office where you can check on permits and make appointments for inspections.

In closing, I would like to welcome our new Councilman, Michael Signorile to the Council representing the Third Ward.

Councilman Signorile brings a wealth of community involvement in his experiences in the private and public sectors. I look forward to working with Councilman Signorile and the rest of the Council, in continuing to keep Berkeley Township an affordable place to live, work, raise a family and retire.

As always, as your Mayor I am here to serve our community. If you have any questions, concerns or would like to make a suggestion, please feel free to email me at: mayor@twp.berkeley.nj.us or by phone: 732-244-7400 ext.: 1203.

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

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Page 8, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021 NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE

Jobs:

Continued From Page 7 additional costs could put jobs at risk for already stressed businesses.

“We need to explore every avenue possible to protect our businesses and save jobs during this pandemic,” said Congressman Kim. “I’m proud to work with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to bring this bill forward and hope to see it advanced quickly

through the House.”

“Canon USA is grateful for the tireless efforts of Rep. Kim and his colleagues in the New York Congressional Delegation to try to correct this issue,” said Yoshinori Shimono, Senior Vice President at Canon USA and President of Canon Financial Services, a company impacted by BEAT tax issues. “Their work is critical to helping Canon USA preserve and grow jobs in New Jersey and New York.”

Congressman Kim is a member of the bipartisan House Select Committee on the Coronavirus Crisis, where he serves as one of twelve members of the House tasked with conducting oversight over programs aimed at ending the Coronavirus pandemic and helping address the economic impact it’s having on the American people. Congressman Kim is also a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Small Business.

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Vaccinated:

Continued From Page 1 country, Freeholder Vicari said.

“There is a lot of fear and a lot of anxiety, but now we are bringing hope,” he said.

The disease does not discriminate, and there will also not be discrimination in the distribution of the vaccine. “No one will be left behind,” he said.

“We want to continue our lives next year. We don’t want to sacrifice another holiday,” he said.

The role of government should be to listen to the citizens and to help, Freeholder Vicari said. He is a Republican, Kim and Murphy are Democrats, but they were all standing together at this press conference complimenting each other on doing their part to minimize the impact of the virus.

Theresa Berger, CEO of Ocean Health Initiatives, credited her staff for working tirelessly to create this vaccination program in a way to help healthcare workers quickly and efficiently.

John Bonevich, director of marketing for OHI, said that 70 staff started their vaccine treatment and more than 200 healthcare workers had made reservations.

To register, visit ohinj.org/vaccine-consent-landing. If you don’t meet the crite-

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 9 ria for the vaccine right now, then visit back often as the state will allow more and more people access as time goes on.

False Hope The governor said that while the vaccine is still a great help, he didn’t want people to drop their guard, especially around holidays.

“It’s a trap. People will die as a result of that attitude,” he said.

People need to remain vigilant: wear masks, practice social distancing, and avoid large groups, especially indoors.

“Keep holidays small,” he said.

Who Gets The Vaccine?

Governor Murphy said that the general public would start getting the vaccine by April or May, or possibly the end of June.

Congressman Kim noted that he has not made an appointment for the vaccine. This was brought up by a reporter in the press pool. Many people have been upset that politicians have been getting vaccinated before medical professionals, teachers and others who are more vulnerable. In some cases, the complaints have been that politicians who downplayed the virus and called it a hoax are going to be the first to be protected from it.

“I’ll take the vaccine when it’s my turn,” Kim said.

Murphy agreed, sayi ng he will take it when he can, but he won’t jump the line in front of doctors and nurses.

Relief Bill Since the start of t h e c o r o n a vir us, Congress has only approved a one time payment to residents, compared to other cou nt r ies that have suppor ted them more.

T h e a m ou nt of the most recent stimulus was still being argued as of press time. −Photo courtesy OHI “This is some- A medical professional gets their first dose of the COVID-19 thing I’ve always vaccine at OHI in Toms River. w a n t e d ,” C o n gressman Kim said. If they can get more more; municipalities need more; state for the public, then he would be all for it. and county governments need more, but But the lack of funding for people who are “we’ll take what we can get.”

He urged that the President sign the suffering shows “an absence of leadership.”

Gov. Murphy said that the relief bill relief bill now and then fight to get more is not enough. Everyday people need aid for people.

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Page 10, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

CHIMNEYS • GUTTERS • ROOFING • MASONRY

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−Photo courtesy Berkeley Township PBA 2370 BERKELEY – On December 19, the members of the Berkeley Township PBA 237 participated with 10 families from the Berkeley Township area in the annual ‘Shop

with a Cop’ event.

The Berkeley Township PBA 237 thanks the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and Lt. Joe Greene for inviting them to the special event.

Ocean County Library Announces Online Book Club

TOMS RIVER – Registration is under way for the January 7 launch of Ocean County Library’s new One Book OCL Online Book Club, a free online forum for book discussions.

Ocean County Library cardholders and non-cardholders are eligible to take part.

Cardholders can download digital versions through the Library’s Freading®, OverDrive® and hoopla® services, or reserve print or audio versions.

Partnering with the Ocean County Library are Library Ideas, a creator of digital ser-

vices for libraries; and Professional Book Club Guru, which supports lifelong learning. PBC Guru’s professional moderators will lead discussions and post articles.

Book Club members can participate anywhere they have Internet access, on days and times convenient to them. Titles will be under discussion for about two months each.

The first selection will be “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones.

Learn more and register for the free program at theoceancountylibrary.org/ online-book-club.

Pay Property Taxes Online

BERKELEY – Berkeley residents can pay property taxes online.

Visit wippii.edmundsassoc.com/Wipp1506 to pay property taxes. Taxpayers will need their block, lot and qualifier numbers or a tax account ID. E-Check and credit card payments can only be made via the Internet.

A convenience fee will be charged to the user for each transaction. The fee for using an E-Check is a flat $1.05 per transaction.

The fee for using a debit/credit card is 2.95 percent of the transaction. The fee for using a Visa Personal debit card is $3.95.

For more information, call 732-244-7400 or write to taxcollector@twp.berkeley.nj.us.

Neighborhood Watch Program

www.TallwoodsCareCenter.com

SEASIDE PARK – The Seaside Park Police have a neighborhood watch program.

To register as a neighborhood watch member, residents should fill out the online form found

at bit.ly/2lAzBwz. Residents will be contacted by the Police Department and provided with their confidential neighborhood watch membership number.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 11

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

Winter Adult Exercise Classes Announced

OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Parks & Recreation has announced the following Winter Adult Exercise Classes: Exercise with Ease: This Exercise Program uses gentle activities to help increase joint flexibility, maintain range of motion and muscular strength. The gentle workout also helps to increase overall stamina. Participants may perform the exercises while seated in a chair. A perfect class for people suffering with arthritis.

Participants must have a check for $45 made payable to Linda Osowski on the first day of class.

Location: Program Room, Parks Administration Office, Toms River.

Date: All classes are on Mondays and Fridays.

Session 1: January 4 through January 29 (no class1/18).

Session 2: February 1 through February 26 (no class 2/15).

Time: 1 to 1:45 p.m.

Fee: $5 per person for registration.

Tai Chi with a Yoga Twist: This program improves the quality of life for people with joint pain without any knowledge of Tai Chi. This ancient practice combines agile steps, joint safe exercise and mental strength to improve mobility, breathing and relaxation in ways that help you feel better. In this class you will learn warm up and cool down exercises and six basic movements along with some meditation.

Participants must have a check for $45 made payable to Linda Osowski on the first day of class.

Location: Program Room, Parks Adminis-

tration Office, Toms River.

Date: All classes are on Mondays and Fridays.

Session 1: January 4 through January 29 (no class 1/18).

Session 2: February 1 through February 26 (no class 2/15).

Time: 2 to 2:45 p.m.

Fee: $5 per person for registration.

Walk N’ Workout: Calling all energetic adults…this class is just what you’re looking for. It is easy, fun and the perfect exercise workout for adults. You can also meet new workout buddies. Using high energy and low impact exercises, you will enjoy this total body experience. In this class, you will get range of motion, strength, flexibility and endurance along with some mind and body exercises. The instructor will provide all equipment needed to get that total body workout. Exercise can be completed standing or seated. Complete your day with a short walk on the beautiful trails of Cattus Island County Park.

Participants must have a check for $45 made payable to Linda Osowski on the first day of class.

Location: Classroom, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River.

Date: All classes are on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Session 1: January 5 through January 29.

Session 2: February 2 through February 26.

Time: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Fee: $5 per person for registration.

For more information, visit oceancounty parks.org or call 732-506-9090.

Berkeley Animal Control

BERKELEY – The Animal Control Office covers not only Berkeley Township, but Pine Beach, Ocean Gate, Seaside Park and the Borough South Toms River. Strays are picked up and brought to the Ocean County Animal

Shelter in Manahawkin, 327 Hay Road. The phone number there is 609-978-0127.

Animal Control Officer Diane Ferrante can be reached at 732-797-1413 or berkeleyanimalcontrol@comcast.net.

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Page 12, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 13

Around The Jersey shore Harrogate Brings The Holiday Spirit To Its Residents

−Photo courtesy Harrogate

The Gingerbread- Time Square.

By Alyssa Riccardi LAKEWOOD - Despite the ongoing pandemic being hard to many individuals, especially senior citizens, Harrogate is bringing the holiday spirit to its residents who are spending this holiday season alone without anyone.

Gianna Garrow, the Director of Health Center Activities, along with the staff at Harrogate have created a Winter Wonderland, transforming Harrogate into a holiday escape in a safe way. The assistant activities director Sharon Budde came up with the idea to create a path through the dining room with stops along the way. As residents walk through the path, they can view joyful displays, created by the staff and their families.

Sharon Budde’s husband Andy Budde built some of the displays. Joe Alonzo, director of dining services, created a gingerbread

Time’s Square, and Annie from housekeeping, created a cozy “fire pit” with Santa, elves and snowmen.

Although the pandemic has kept its residents from seeing their families, Harrogate found a way to bring everyone together during the season of giving. Trees were donated by friends and families, and each department created its own section.

“We may be apart this holiday season, but at Harrogate the holiday spirit is alive and thriving for our residents with help from caring staff and families,” Gloria Walsh, associate executive director, said.

The Winter Wonderland Tour is only open to residents, but the public can take a virtual tour through January on Harrogate’s Facebook page.

For more information, contact Keenan Masterson, marketing assistant at kmasterson@hgate.org or by calling 732-608-4080.

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Page 14, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

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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Face masks may be the new normal, but many people are still getting the hang of wearing them with hearing aids. From falling out during mask removal to being obstructed by the mask itself, hearing aids — specifically behind-the-ear styles — can become lost or damaged. In fact, at Garden State Hearing & Balance Center, since June 2020, we have had over 45 patients lose their hearing aids due to wearing masks. The majority of them were covered under their 3-year loss policy.

What can you do? As your hearing care team, we want to make sure nothing stands in the way of communicating your best. That includes helping you protect your devices. With these quick and easy tips, we’ll have you handling your face mask and hearing technology together like a pro.

Tricks for Wearing a Mask • Pull long hair into a bun and wrap the elastic of the mask — if it’s long and strong enough — around the bun, instead of your ears.

• Sew a button on either end of a 4-inch piece of fabric. Wrap the mask elastic around the buttons. The fabric sits at the back of your head and eases the strain on your ears.

• Sew a button on either end of a soft headband. Position the headband above your ears and wrap the mask elastic around the buttons, removing the strain from your ears.

• Choose masks that tie in the back. You can fi nd videos online showing how to create your own that don’t place pressure on your ears.

Tip for Safely Removing a Mask • Take your mask off slowly and mindful-

ly, making sure your hearing technology remains positioned in or behind your ear as intended.

• Communicating While Wearing A Mask • Speak clearly and slowly at a natural volume.

• If not understood, repeat rather than rephrase.

• Ensure hearing aids are turned on.

• Avoid or minimize background noise.

• Face your conversation partner.

• Keep your smartphone or pen and pad handy to write or type out a note if needed.

• Choose a well-lit area to aid in making eye contact, interpreting expressions and — if clear masks are used — reading lips.

I lost my hearing aid should I do?

First, you need to take a deep breath and retrace your steps. Most hearing instruments are found if you give it at least a few days. Many hearing aids allow you to “LOCATE” their hearing aids through their APP. There is a build in GPS that will allow you to “Find Your Hearing Aids.” Check to see if your hearing instrument has that feature, and if it does, make sure you properly download the APP to take advantage of the GPS locator. Please remember that once your hearing aid battery loses charge (if you’re wearing rechargeable hearing aids) or loses power (zinc air batteries last about 4-7 days), you will not be able to locate them.

Dr. Izzy and his staff are always available to answer any questions you may have regarding your hearing care needs. We hear you and we are always here for you in 2021. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-818-3610 or visit us at www. gardenstatehearing.com.

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!

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 15

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

The New Medications In 2020

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

It’s time for my annual report about the novel medications that were approved in the year 2020. I’ve been writing this yearly article for more than 20 years! Many drugs in 2020 were fast-tracked in order to come to market faster. While you read this, keep in mind that I’m read worldwide, but I am only listing the American brand names, so please ask your doctor what the brand name is in your country. Also, the two COVID vaccines from Modern and Pfizer are not yet FDA-approved, however an Emergency Use Authorization has been signed, and therefore distribution is occurring as we speak. FDA approval will come shortly.

Pizensy (Lactitol), Rx, Oral - This medication is used for constipation, especially the unrelenting type that has no obvious cause (termed “idiopathic”).

Lactitol is the active (generic) ingredient name which is a common additive in many prescription drugs. It has been around and used as a sweetener for low-calorie foods. You may have heard of its cousins which are also used so sweeten foods… erythritol, sorbitol, and xylitol.

Ayvakit (Avapritinib), Rx, Oral - This medication is for stomach tumors and it’s taken once daily on an empty stomach.

The FDA fast-tracked approval for this medication based upon a nationwide test conducted on 204 patients with a metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), or one that could not be surgically removed.

The drug seeks to shrink the tumor.

Tepezza (Teprotumumab-trbw), Rx, IV injection - This medication is

given as an infusion to people with a specific eye problem caused by Graves’ disease. The disorder sometimes causes a person’s eyes to bulge out, and Tepezza helps over time. It does not stop the autoimmune process. It seems to flare up problems for people who have pre-existing inflammatory bowel disease.

Nurtec ODT (Oral Disintegrating Tablets), Rimegepant, Rx, Oral - These quickly dissolving pills work for a day or two and help with symptoms of a migraine. In a study of 1,351 people those who took the drug experienced improvement from light and sound sensitivity, as well as nausea at the 2-hour interval (compared to the placebo group). This is a treatment, not a preventative agent. If you have migraines, you would love my book, “Headache Free” available on Amazon.

Sarclisa (Isatuximab), Rx, Injection - Used for the treatment of resistant multiple myeloma, this newer agent is slightly easier to administer because it’s faster for patients. As part of its mechanism of action, it acts like a CD38 inhibitor binding to myeloma cells and blocking growth or slowing spread. Before Sarclisa, one had to also take an FDA approved CD38 inhibitor such as daratumumab along with other treatments. This new drug is not a first line agent, it is for people who have not responded to other meds.

Retevmo (Selpercatnib), Rx, Oral - This treats people with either thyroid cancer or non-small cell lung cancer. It’s in a category of drugs called “kinase inhibitors” and it’s not like traditional chemotherapy. It is very targeted so there are fewer side effects.

(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) ©2020 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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Page 16, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Rodent Templeton in “Charlotte’s Web,” for one 4 Provide with more than enough 11 Miner’s target 14 Flightless bird 15 Memorable Greek shipping magnate 16 Aggravate 17 Bake sale confections made with root veggies 19 Finish off 20 Chance for a hit 21 Asia’s __ Darya river 22 Cornstarch brand in a yellow-and-blue container 23 Chair or bench 24 Shine-minimizing makeup layer 27 Harmonious 29 Scare 30 Soon-to-be grads.

31 Vanity cases?

33 Plagues 34 Wireless networking protocol 36 Degenerate, like Agnew’s snobs 39 Apt name for a Dalmatian 40 Mil. academy 43 Black, in Bordeaux 44 Like the flame at Arlington National Cemetery 46 Pop’s pop 50 Vacation site you might sail to 51 Painter Magritte 52 Managed care gp.

53 Follow, as advice 54 “Fear the Walking Dead” network 55 Driver’s alert about an infant, and a hint to what can precede both words of 17-, 24-, 34- and 46-Across 58 Peace symbol 59 Central Texas city 60 Bestow, to Burns

61 Chemical suffix with benz62 Cut at an angle 63 Always, to Poe Down 1 Finds new players for 2 One who plays without pay 3 Wrapped headdresses 4 Chimney residue 5 Colony insect 6 Tic-toe filler 7 Father of Jacob and Esau 8 Words on a volunteer’s badge 9 Highway headache 10 Half a figure eight 11 Late in arriving 12 Substance used for chemical analysis 13 Obtains via coercion, as money 18 Part of APR 22 Knee-deep (in) 24 Bach work 25 Therapeutic plant

26 Prince Siegfried’s beloved, in “Swan Lake” 28 Like pool tables 32 Ave. crossers 33 Swag 34 Suisse capital 35 Newspaper page with views 36 Personalize at the jeweler’s 37 Work site supervisors 38 Bride-to-be 40 Performing in a theater 41 Dieter’s unit 42 Thin 45 Man who “wore a diamond,” in “Copacabana” 47 Abu __ 48 Realm of influence 49 Holmes’ creator 53 Still sleeping 55 “Kapow!”

56 “__ the land of the free ... “ 57 SSW’s opposite

(c)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

SWIFT SHIFT ADVENT BRAZEN - FIRST-HAND NEWS

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 17

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Workers’ Compensation Basics

Robert C. Shea Esq.

By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq.and Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates In New Jersey, if you sustain an injury arising out of or in the course of your employment, you are entitled to certain benefits under the law. This is more specifically set forth in the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act. Primarily, should your injury require medical attention, the Workers’ Compensation carrier for your employer is to provide this to you. The insurance carrier pays for reasonable and necessary medical care until you reach a medical plateau. In turn, however, the insurance carrier does have the right to direct your medical care. In other words, the insurance carrier has the opportunity to choose the physicians with whom you treat, as well as the facilities where any treatment or therapy is administered.

In the event that your injury is such that you are medically unable to work for more than seven (7) days, the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act provides that the insurance company is to pay temporary disability benefits. This entitles you to seventy percent (70%) of your wages, up to the statutory maximum for the year in which you sustained the injury. These payments continue until the authorized physician permits you to return to work or until you reach a medical plateau, whichever is sooner.

Should permanent effects of your injury remain after achieving a medical plateau, you may be entitled to benefits to compensate for those permanent effects. This is based on a statutory value determined according to the part of your body which was injured and the permanent residuals of your treatment and injury. This process progresses after your physician has returned you to gainful employment. In the event that you are deemed medically unable to return to work, you may be entitled to total

disability benefits.

The questions often Christopher R. Shea Esq. arises, “What happens if I am injured during the course of my duties as a volunteer for a municipality?” It has been determined that volunteer firefighters, first aid or rescue squad workers, ambulance drivers, forest fire wardens or firefighters, board of education members and auxiliary or special reserve police officers are provided for within the Workers’ Compensation Act in New Jersey.

Although, as a volunteer as listed above one would not have been compensated for the acts performed within the scope of that position, if injured while performing those duties, and medically unable to work, you would be entitled to compensation at the maximum rate for the year of that injury.

Furthermore, the injured volunteer is entitled to reasonable and necessary medical treatment as if an employee. In the event that the volunteer suffers permanent residuals from the injury in question, the volunteer would also have the right to seek payment for those residuals, the same as if a paid employee.

The law firm of R.C. Shea & Associates is a full-service law firm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medicaid Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney. Call or visit our firm at 732-5051212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, Manchester Area (732) 408-9455 or our Brick Area at (732) 451-0800, email us at Rshea@rcshea. com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com.

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Page 18, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS Personals

Help Wanted

Single White Male - Searching for female to stand beside me for love, romance. 53-63. Open to any race.

609-709-5087. I'm submissive. (1)

HIRING NOW!! Looking for outgoing, positive, and engaging teachers to join our Toms River – Route 70 Goddard Family. We are primarily hiring teachers for our elementary school aged children to foster a learning environment in which these children can continue to do their elementary school work. This would include helping them with worksheets, zooms, google classrooms etc. Some of the great perks of being a part of the Goddard Family include a benefits package, paid time off, holiday events and free food and Goddard swag. Call today to inquire about this job posting and start as early as next week!

We can be reached through phone at 732-363-5530 or email at TomsRiver2NJ@GoddardSchools.com.

Lady of Mixed Race - 50-plus.

Independent. Non-smoker. Attractive, seeks single gentleman 45-65.

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For companionship and friendship.

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Items Wanted $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/ estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n) Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713.

(17) 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 LP albums. Rock, Jazz, Reggae, Blues, Metal. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (4) 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.

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(49) Aid/Companion - Part time a few days a month, days and hours vary, for a 57 year old veteran, very light care needed. Mostly self sufficient, must be pleasant and have drivers lic., meals included, must be covid safe and recently tested.

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(3) Cedar Glen West - Is seeking a part time Office Assistant to join our team! Positive minded person with excellent communication skills and multitasking capabilities.

Responsibilities: Answer inbound calls, manage and follow up maintenance requests, maintain filling systems compose and write letters, communicate with staff and residents.

Qualifications: Previous experience in office administration, be able to prioritize and multitask, have excellent written and verbal skills, a desire to take initiative and accept responsibility. Knowledge of Word, Excel, outlook required with QuickBooks being a plus.

Contact Bill at 732-657-5525 or williams@cedarglenwest.net. (49) Needed Live In - Grandmotherly caregiver for 66 year old MR female. Large private bedroom and bath. Lite housekeeping and cooking. Car available. Small salary. Call 732-657-4714.

(1) Auto Parts Delivery Drivers Needed - Part time, Lakewood area. Vehicle supplied, clean license required.

Call Lee 732-719-0018.

(51) Looking for woman to clean house - 2x/wk. Cortelyou Rd, Jackson. $13/ hr. Please call 917-561-0091. (49) Certified Home Health Aides Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

Services 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. (19) C a re g i v e r - C o m p a n i o n s h i p 24/7 Momes Angels. Call Natia: 347-737-4415.

(52)

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Cheap Painting Done Rite Free estimates. Fully insured. 38 years experience. 732-506-7787 cell 646-643-7678.

(37)

$9.99/Room Universal Cleaning Services - APARTMENT • HOME • OFFICE. Services Offered – $9.99: Bedroom, Dining Room, Living Room, Foyer, Hallway, Basement, All other rooms $19.99: Kitchen, Bathrooms, Refrigerator, Deep Clean. ONE TIME • WEEKLY • BI-WEEKLY • MONTHLY. Coverage area: Ocean and Monmouth County. CALL NOW! 732-301-4111 Gaby Cohen.

(48)

Services Don Carnevale Painting Specializing interiors. Some exterior. Quality always. Very neat. Prompt courteous service.

Reasonable-affordable. Senior-Veterans discounts. Honest-reliable. Low rates. Free estimates. References. 732-8994470 or 732-915-4075.

(50) 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) When You Need A Caregiver Call Lucy - European Registered Nurse, 25 years. US Eldercare experience, 19 years. Live in/out, hourly, negotiable. 732-657-1409 (H), 732-833-3273 (C).

(47) File Bankruptcy by James W. Donnelly, Esq., - Chapter 7, clear your debts, obtain a fresh start, free telephone consultation, hundreds of bankruptcy cases handled, practicing law since 1980. Cell 908-773-3727, email jwdprof@aol.com.

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BB Towing And Recycling - We buy it all. Cars, trucks, all metals bought. Top prices paid. Light iron 560 cars, 650 late model cars, trucks. Any condition. Cash paid. 609-758-8850.

(47)

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Care Provider - Offering assistance with daily activities for both the elderly and adults. 23 years experience. Nancy 732- 864 - 5359.

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

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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) Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience.

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(39) Gutter Cleaning - $60 special, Holiday City, Silver Ridge homes. Also Leaf removal.

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Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) APlus Home Improvement and Repairs - Fully licensed and insured.

Over 30 years experience. No job to small. Call Duane 908-278-1322. (52) 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) Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 19

Around The Jersey shore Senior Needs Increasing Through 2021

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – The end of the year is here already. Many have said it can’t come soon enough but with 2021’s arrival just around the corner, Ocean County officials want to assure seniors who rely on the county’s home delivered meals program that it will continue.

Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, Chairman of Senior Services said, “the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a significant increase in the need for home delivered meals for seniors living in Ocean County.”

He added, “while this program has always been a lifeline for the elderly living in the County that has never been truer than this year.” As the pandemic worsened and greater restrictions were put in place across the County, senior centers and congregate nutrition sites where older adults gather for a meal and socialization were forced to close.

In addition, many caregivers, who helped with meals were unable to visit with seniors. “We now had a greater need and we had to address it. In order to do so we surveyed our congregate participants and

anyone in need of a meal was added to the home delivered meal program. Our numbers almost doubled,” Vicari said.

The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders on Dec. 16 approved seven contracts for Community Services Inc. which includes providing almost 200,000 meals in 2021 to 1,940 clients.

“Before the pandemic began, we delivered meals to about 1,100 seniors a day. Now, we are looking at delivering meals to almost 2,000 seniors daily. This is a monumental task but one that comes with immeasurable benefits as we provide a service that keeps

our most vulnerable citizens safe at home,” Vicari said.

The seven contracts awarded to Community Services Inc. for home delivered meals and a host of other services for seniors total $2.8 million.

“In order to safely prepare and distribute meals to homebound older adults without exposing clients or employees to the virus, providers had to incur the cost of personal protective equipment, disinfectants and other products in addition to changes to the service delivery system,” said Maria (Senior - See Page 23)

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE You’ll Never Be Left High And Dry As Long As Dr. Choxi is By Your Side

By Michael Vandenberg “There’s always some kind of suppor t available,” for patients struggling with pain, Dr. Sarah Choxi told me in a recent discussion. If you, like many of Garden State Medical Center’s new patients, have been told by other doctors that nothing could be done to alleviate your suffering, it’s time to think again. When you combine the vast treatment options available at GSMC with Dr. Choxi and the rest of their pain management specialists (including founder Dr. Dharam Mann), that negativity simply doesn’t stand a chance.

After all, her interest in helping people has driven her throughout her education and career.

She decided to specialize in anesthesiology and interventional pain management because she saw how much those fields could change lives.

“It was a way to help patients improve quality of life,” said Dr. Choxi. “It can be really difficult for people when they have pain to go through their normal day by day activities. So it was really impor tant to me as a medical student, later on as a resident, and now as an attending to be able to restore their function and have very independent lives.” People who have conditions that can’t be solved or are difficult to solve deserve the ability to be happy and painfree.

Formerly at the Universit y of Chicago, Dr. Choxi was drawn to GSMC’s same focus, as well as the innovative tools it has to make it happen. “It’s a very multi-dimensional perspective on man-

aging pain,” she said.

Their solutions include medication manage ment, injections, spinal cord stimulators, and countless others that have been proven safe and effective. Oftentimes a combination of techniques works best. “Patients aren’t cookie cutter.

They’re very unique and individual. So I think you need to have a plan in place that caters to their specific needs.”

Garden State Medical Center has always been on the cutting edge, so it’s only natural for them to have so much under their umbrella. If Dr. Choxi thinks you need to see a rheumatologist, don’t start looking at next month’s calendar; you can see one of her rheumatologist colleagues in-house in a matter of days. She’ll probably even share her notes with them on their stateof-the-art electronic database, which will also help you to stay informed about your own care.

Being in-the-know about the options available to you is an important part of the culture at GSMC. Dr. Choxi remembers one patient in particular who was desperate for answers. She had heel surgery and, although When she saw the pa- granted. Recently she it had physically healed, tient, she told her, “No went to a flea market with she was still feeling a matter what, we’ll fig- her husband and could ton of pain. Unfortunately, ure this out together.” Dr. actually just walk around the surgeon had been Choxi gave her options: for a couple hours and enjoy herself. Previously, dismissive, telling her five to be exact.

The patient decided anything longer than ten that there was no reason to go with minutes used to be una n i n j e c - bearable. “I’m finally able tion called to just enjoy the weather a s y m p a - outside,” the patient told thetic nerve her. “I’m so glad that you block, and could give me options j u s t l i k e and I know that I can t h a t s h e trust you.”

Trust in a doctor gives for her to be feeling dis- achieved 90 percent recomfort. “She felt a little lief. It was a life-changing patients the courage to pushed around by him difference, giving her pursue the treatment and sort of just pushed the ability to experience they feel most comfortout the door,” Dr. Choxi basic joys again in ways able with. Luckily, after remembered her saying. lots of people take for Dr. Choxi gives you the

most effective and safest options, she’s happy let you make the ultimate choice. Unfamiliar with how some of these methods work? She’ll happily go over everything with you at length and answer any questions. In addition, GSMC has models in every room to help patients visualize what doctors are describing. There are even televisions in all the offices with videos that give patients a full rundown of procedures and illustrations on how they’re performed.

It ’s all bec ause Dr. Choxi’s patients “know

that they ’re going to get the care they de serve”. To get started, call 1-888-376-2661 today to schedule an appointment, or feel free to visit gsmedicalcenter. org to learn more on the procedures Garden State Medical Center provides. Dr. Choxi currently practices at 780 Route 37 West, Suite 110 and 1314 Hooper Avenue, Building B, Suite 101 in Toms River; 1100 Route 70, Entrance A in Whiting; 1608 Route 88, Suite 102 in Brick; and 100 Route 36, Suite #1K in West Long Branch.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 21

Around The Jersey shore

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Volunteering During A Pandemic: How to Help Your Community Safely

By Alyssa Riccardi JERSEY SHORE – During the holiday season, many people strive to donate to others less fortunate or volunteer at pantries where you can help serve a Christmas meal to someone. Yet, with the ongoing pandemic due to COVID-19, there has been a higher need of donations across the board. So how can one volunteer and help donate in a safe manner?

Fulfill, the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, has been seeing the demand for food rising during the coronavirus crisis as soup kitchens and schools are closing. According to Fulfill, they have seen a 40 percent increase in the demand for food since the start of the pandemic. The increase remains steady.

Feeding America estimates the number of New Jersey residents struggling to put food on the table will climb to 56 percent within the coming months and the number of food-insecure children is expected to grow even more, by 75 percent.

“The cost of food has gone up exponentially since the start of the pandemic. A year ago, we paid $22,000 for a tractor trailer load of canned vegetables. Today, we’re paying $69,000,” Fulfill CEO and President Kim Guadagno stated. “Pre-pandemic, Fulfill was feeding 136,000 people, including 50,000 children. Today, we are feeding 215,000 people, including 70,000 children.”

Fulfill is partnered with over 250 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, day programs, group homes, and more. They’ve served 2.8 million more meals this year than they did the same period last year due to COVID-19.

The Freehold Area Open Door is a non-profit associated with Fulfill that provides emergency food, emergency funding, mentoring, and scholarships to those in need. They offer four different programs: a Food Pantry Program, an Emergency Funding/Advocacy Program, an After School Program, and a Scholarship Program.

“Because of the pandemic, we have seen a continuous stream of more people on our line,” said Geralyn Fraggetta-Drury, the Director of Freehold Area Open Door. “We did have a small drop before Thanksgiving and it is now picking up again. If we face another closure, we can expect to serve 250 to 300 people in under two hours.”

In 2019, they served 363 families for Thanksgiving with dinner boxes and turkeys or hams and this year they served 539 families. Each month they are seeing well over 1,000 people.

With the overwhelming number of people increasing, volunteers are highly needed during this time.

“Volunteering is hard. We have been operating with a skeleton crew with safety

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“If individuals don’t want to volunteer in-person, there is always a ‘most needed’ list for the pantry and that will help us fill in the holes in our pantry.”

Amanda Mehrman from Just Believe Inc. expressed the struggles the organization went through during the pandemic.

“In the beginning we took quick action to bring food and basic essentials to not only the homeless community, but those in motel settings and our elderly community,” Amanda said. “When the state fi rst shut down… churches and pantries, many had nowhere to go to receive food.”

Just Believe Inc., a non-profit based in Toms River but helps across the county, is dedicated to supplying basic and immediate needs to the local disenfranchised and homeless community. Their mission is to help individual progress from homelessness to contributing members of society. They do so through outreach warming centers, affordable housing advocacy, and working with local programs and organizations that assist people in leading self-sustaining lives. Just Believe Inc. provides the proper supporting resources needed to bring hope and success to those in helpless situations.

“We collaborated with a group of volunteers to go out into the community with (Volunteering - See Page 22)

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

Volunteering: Continued From Page 21

bagged meals, delivered to motels in the area and went shopping for the elderly so they could stay home,” Mehrman said. “We were the fi rst responders so to say. The community has since developed a system of getting people food with Peoples Pantry open five days a week, the schools handing out free lunch, and food distribution locations spread in the area.”

Mehrman stated if anyone is looking to volunteer they can email her at: amanda@ justbelieveinc.org and fill out one of their volunteer packets. Due to COVID-19 and CDC guidelines, they are limited to how many volunteers they can have in their Riverwood code blue center and boutique, but they do still have a need.

If anyone wishes to donate monetarily they can go to their website at justbelieveinc.org.

Individuals can also drop off donations for the Thrift store at the Boutique located at 734 Route 37 West suite #5, Toms River, NJ 08755.

There are beige bins located at Riverwood Park Recreation Center; 250 Riverwood Dr, Toms River where you can leave clothing donations for them to hand out to their guests at the Code Blue Warming Center.

“We understand there are many who still feel that it is unsafe to volunteer in public places and we have several dedicated volunteers who are “sitting out” this year due to various health issues that leave them among the most vulnerable during this pandemic,” Amanda said. “However, the need to help the homeless and disenfranchised is still an issue in our community and the problem is growing larger each day with layoffs, shutdowns, and families being affected by the strain of our current world circumstances.

One thing that is always needed in all cir-

cumstances is money. Whether it’s for security deposits, car insurance, phone cards, food, etc it all takes monetary donations to help others get over the hump and out of the hole they are in.”

The Human Concerns Food Pantry, located in the St. Francis Community Center in Long Beach Township, is another local pantry that is partnered with Fulfill. The organization uses their donation funds to purchase non-perishables, fresh produce, and meat from local grocery stores to give out to individuals in need.

“We believe the increase we’ve seen can be attributed to our reduced hours of availability, other food pantries have closed or reduced their hours, food pantries have struggled to receive food donations, and the increase in the unemployment rate in Ocean County,” Breanne (Gesicki) La Marco, the Program Director of Family Support Services at St. Francis said.

With the increase in visitors, the pantry is needing more donations. Donations can be dropped off at the Community Center in the Human Concerns Food Pantry any time Monday through Friday during regular business hours. If you have a large donation and need assistance, you can call to schedule a time to drop off at 609-4948861 ext. 197.

“If someone wants to help out in a safe manner, we always have an Amazon Wishlist where people can donate items we need like personal hygiene products and nonperishable food items,” Breanne stated.

Anyone interested in donating can visit their website stfranciscenterlbi.org for the Amazon Wishlist link. You can also send a monetary donation via Paypal on their website or by mailing in cash or checks to: Human Concerns Food Pantry, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Twp., NJ 08008.

Remote Counseling Available

OCEAN COUNTY − Jewish Family & Children’s Services has expanded their services so that counseling and support groups are now taking place virtually. “JFCS is the centerpiece of how the Jewish Federation provides help and support to those in need in our community,” said Shelly Newman, CoChair of the Federation’s Board of Directors.

Those who are current clients, as well as those who are dealing with anxiety or

relationship challenges during this time of self-isolation and too-close-quarters, can schedule appointments via video-chat or phone. Caregiver and bereavement support groups are also meeting via ZOOM. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact JFCS@ocjf.org or call 732-3638010.

For more information, visit www.jewish oceancounty.org

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021, Page 23

Around The Jersey Shore Bank Donates Holiday Surprise To Food Bank

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−Photo courtesy Think Media Communications Wells Fargo Bank recently made a surprise $50,000 donation to Fulfill Food Bank, which provides funding for 150,000 meals to people in need during the pandemic and holiday season in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

By Bob Vosseller NEPTUNE – Representatives of the Fulfill Food Bank received a holiday surprise in the form of a $50,000 check from Wells Fargo.

The donation to Fulfill will go to assist the organization with its ongoing efforts to address food insecurity in the region.

The donation is in addition to the $25,000 Wells Fargo previously donated to Fulfill earlier in the year.

Fulfill CEO and President Kim Guadagno said the donation “will enable us to provide 150,000 meals to our neighbors in need in Monmouth and Ocean counties who have fallen on hard times.”

“We thank Wells Fargo for the additional funding this holiday season as well as for the support they provided to us earlier in the year to address the critical issue of food insecurity,” Guadagno added.

Fulfill has served an additional 3 million meals since the pandemic hit the Jersey Shore. Pre-COVID, Fulfill was serving 136,000 people, 50,000 of them children.

Fulfill has seen a 40% increase in the demand for food since the onset of the crisis.

Currently, Fulfill is feeding 215,000 people, 70,000 of them are children.

Fulfill assists with tax preparation, connecting people to SNAP (food stamps) benefits, and with job training in the organization’s culinary program.

Senior:

Inc. has increased telephone reassurance and wellness calls and have been doing them daily during the pandemic. In addition to calling all home delivered meals and congregate site participants, they are also sending out encouraging post cards and notes reminding them that they are thinking of them and are there for them. They also continue to provide homebound seniors personal hygiene items including soap, toilet paper, paper towel and other household items.

Vicari noted, “this has been a difficult year for so many people but especially those elderly people that are homebound. The pandemic has made it nearly impossible for them to get out for grocery shopping and other essentials. The home delivered meals program continues to be a lifeline for our seniors.”

“In 2020, the program expanded in order to meet the challenges that come from the coronavirus. It is something our seniors rely on and we are committed to making certain it provides the help they need,” Vicari added.

Continued From Page 19 LaFace, Director of the Ocean County Office of Senior Services.

For example, drivers delivering the meals can no longer have close contact with clients including personally handing them their meal or talking with them face to face. All drivers are required to wear masks and gloves and maintain a distance of six feet so meals are now left on a table outside the front door or on the porch.

Drivers do wait to see if the consumer picks up the meal, to make eye contact and try to gauge how the consumer is doing from a distance.

LaFace said, “while these necessary protocols have somewhat diminished the impact of the social connections previously enjoyed with consumers, they have allowed both seniors and drivers to be kept safe.”

To make up for the lack of social contact when delivering meals, Community Services

Rome has four iconic - and outrageously good - pasta dishes that use some combination of pork, cheese, pepper, eggs and tomatoes: cacio e pepe, amatriciana, carbonara and gricia. This last one is probably the least well-known in the United States, but its porky-peppery flavors deserve big recognition.

In Italy, porky guanciale is at the forefront of the dish, followed by the heat of black pepper and the tang of pecorino Romano. It all forms a rich yet delicately creamy sauce to coat rigatoni.

To bring this dish into American home kitchens, we had to finesse the ingredient list and the cooking technique. To start, we swapped out the guanciale for easier-to-find pancetta. (But if you can find guanciale, use it! We’ve included instructions for subbing it for the pancetta.)

As for the technique, we quickly learned that it was more art than science: As the al dente pasta cooks through, it absorbs some of the pasta water and releases starch to help emulsify the water and fat into a creamy sauce. How much pasta water to add depends on knowing how much more cooking the pasta needs and how much water it will absorb. And if there isn’t enough pasta water to maintain the emulsion, the sauce will be broken and greasy. We wanted to remove any guesswork so home cooks of all experience levels could make this dish perfectly every time.

The solution was boiling measured amounts of rendered pork fat and pasta water to a specific volume: 1 1/2 cups.

This way, we always used the same amount of liquid to coat the pasta, which gave us consistent results and an emulsified sauce. Boiling the liquid also helped break up the fat droplets to create a thick, cohesive sauce before we mixed in the pasta.

From start to finish, the recipe only takes about 30 minutes. And it only takes one bite to understand why it’s one of Rome’s iconic pastas.

PASTA ALLA GRICIA

(Rigatoni with Pancetta & Pecorino Romano) Serves 6 8 ounces pancetta, sliced 1/4-inch thick 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound rigatoni 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper, plus extra for serving 2 ounces pecorino Romano cheese, grated fine (1 cup), plus extra for serving 1. Slice each round of pancetta into rectangular pieces that measure about 1/2 inch by 1 inch.

2. Heat pancetta and oil in large Dutch oven over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until fat is rendered and pancetta is deep golden brown but still has slight pinkish hue, 8 to 10 minutes, adjusting heat as necessary to keep pancetta from browning too quickly.

3. Using slotted spoon, transfer pancetta to bowl; set aside. Pour fat from pot into liquid measuring cup (you should have around 1/3 cup fat; discard any extra over 1/3 cup). Return fat to Dutch oven.

4. While pancetta cooks, set the colander in large bowl. Bring 2 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add pasta and cook, stirring often, until al dente. Drain pasta in prepared colander, reserving cooking water.

5. Add pepper and 2 cups reserved cooking water to the Dutch oven with fat and bring to boil over high heat.

Boil mixture rapidly, scraping up any browned bits, until emulsified and reduced to 1 1/2 cups, about 5 minutes.

(If you’ve reduced it too far, add more reserved cooking water to equal 1 1/2 cups.)

6. Reduce heat to low, add pasta and pancetta, and stir to evenly coat.

Add pecorino Romano and stir until cheese is melted and sauce is slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Off heat, adjust sauce consistency with remaining reserved cooking water as needed.

Transfer pasta to platter and ser ve immediately, passing extra pepper and extra cheese separately.

Recipe notes: Because this pasta is quite rich, serve it in slightly smaller portions with a green vegetable or salad.

For the best results, use the highest-quality pancetta you can find. If you can find guanciale, we recommend using it and increasing the browning time in Step 2 to 10 to 12 minutes. Because we call for cutting the pancetta to a specified thickness, we recommend having it cut to order at the deli counter; avoid pre-sliced or pre-diced products.

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2020 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Page 24, The Berkeley Times, January 2, 2021

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