2021-01-23 - The Toms River Times

TheTOMS RIVER Times Vol. 16 - No. 39

In This Week’s Edition

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Toms River Native Joins Kamala Harris’ Team

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Dear Joel Page 16

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

Dear Pharmacist Page 17

Inside The Law Page 22

─Photo courtesy Rohini Kosoglu Rohini Kosoglu, Domestic Policy Advisor to Vice President Kamala Harris, speaks with President Joe Biden.

By Chris Lundy in Toms River, she at- way from Toms River, up from the mail room WA S H I N GT ON , tended Cedar Grove and she misses Rich’s to be a legislative aide D.C. – Rohini Kosoglu Elementar y School, Ice Cream and Charlie’s for Michigan Senator is bringing the voice Intermediate East and Pizza.

Debbie Stabenow and of Toms River to the High School East in After Toms River, she then Policy Director White House.

Toms River. attended the Univer- for Colorado Senator Kosoglu is the DomesAs the mother of three sity of Michigan and Michael Bennet, where tic Policy Advisor to young boys, she’s look- George Washington she oversaw economVice President Kamala ing forward to COVID University. Then lit- ic, health care and (Native - See Page 4) Harris. Born and raised to be over. D.C. is a long erally worked her way

Commissioners Hold Historic First Meeting, Appoint New Leadership

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – It was a day of historic firsts - selection of new leadership and a time to reflect on those who came before them during the recently held first meeting of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.

Trump Pardons Former Ocean County GOP Boss Gilmore

By Jason Allentoff OCEAN COUNTY – As the sun set on his final days as Commander-in-Chief, President Donald Trump granted clemency to 143 people including a familiar name to Jersey Shore residents: former Ocean County Republican Chairman George Gilmore.

According to a press release put out by The White House, President Trump pardoned 73 individuals and commuted the sentences of 70 others early January 20, just hours before his term ends.

Gilmore, 71, of Toms River, was convicted of not paying federal income tax for his employees and lying on a loan application. He was sentenced to one year and one day in prison.

BREAKING NEWS @

Page 16

January 23, 2021

This marked the first session of the Board with their new titles, replacing the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders, a term now discontinued in all county governments in New Jersey.

The Garden State was the last to rename the county position. The

name “freeholder” dates back to the time when only white men could own land so only they could hold office.

Another first was that this meeting was limited in size and divided up into two rooms within the Ocean County Administration build-

ing’s room 119 due to Occhipinti, chaplain for the ongoing COVID-19 the Ocean County Prospandemic. The meeting ecutor’s Office and the was limited to 25 people. Ocean County Sheriff’s A familiar figure from Department noted his prior Ocean County Free- close friendship with holder reorganization Ocean County Commeetings returned to pro- missioner John “Jack” vide the invocation and P. Kelly who he met 50 benediction during the years ago in Stafford session. Reverend James (Appoint - See Page 15)

(Trump - See Page 4)

Vaccine Concerns Addressed By Hackensack Meridian Health Leaders

By Bob Vosseller NEW JERSEY – Hackensack Meridian Health held a webinar designed to alleviate the fears and address the concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccines.

The webinar was expected to be the first of several to address the subject of the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. Among the topics covered during this first one was the research and development process.

The webinar, called “COVID-19 Vaccines – What You Need to Know” included Dr. Ihor S. Sawczuk who serves as chief research and institutional officer at Hackensack Meridian Health. He was joined by doctors Brian Roper, (Vaccine - See Page 8)

STAY CONNECTED www.facebook.com/jshoreonline

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Native:

Continued From Page 1 budget issues. She joined Kamala Harris’ team when the vice president was a senator, eventually becoming her chief of staff.

She has negotiated several bipartisan bills into law and served as a senior health care advisor during the drafting and passage of the Affordable Care Act.

Her father, Dr. Wijeyadevendram Ravindran, has worked as an Emergency Room doctor at Community Medical Center for over 30 years.

He always stressed to her that a physician should treat people no matter what they are able to pay and she’s brought that ethic with her.

She will be advising Harris on domestic policy – anything that could come in front of her.

“It’s a deep sense of responsibility, bringing voices of people who are not in the room,” she said. “We strive to elevate that voice.” She was the first South Asian American woman to serve as Chief of Staff in the United States Senate. This was when she worked for Harris in California.

Harris brought her on as Chief of Staff for her presidential campaign, and now to D.C. “I find the job a huge responsibility and also an opportunity,” she said.

Toms River – and the Jersey shore in general – is going through tough times. Not just the pandemic, but the opioid epidemic as well.

“So many local businesses and people are hurting. Our government has to work for these people,” she said. On a larger scale, the country is facing numerous crises: “economic, COVID, climate change, and a reckoning on race” to name a few. The federal government must hold itself to the highest standards to address these issues.

Trump:

Continued From Page 1 Gilmore had been in the process of appealing his conviction on the tax evasion and fraud charges.

Back in December, Gilmore’s attorney, Kevin Marino, told Jersey Shore Online that they were petitioning for the entire appellate court to rehear the case-not just a panel.

All of that changed with President Trump’s decision. According to The White House release, Gilmore’s pardon is supported by Bill Stepien, Chris Christie, James McGreevey, James Florio, Donald DiFrancesco, John Bennett, Kimberly Guadagno, Thomas MacArthur, Gerald Cardinale, Michael Testa, Jr., David Avella, Joseph Buckelew, Lawrence Bathgate II, Larry Weitzner, and Adam Geller.

The release went on to say that Gilmore was convicted for failure to pay payroll taxes and false statements but he has made important civic contributions over his career in New Jersey.

Gilmore is the grandson of late Seaside Heights mayor J. Stanley Tunney, of which the Tunney bridge between Toms River and Seaside is named.

Gilmore’s law firm did work for a number of towns, which dissolved their contracts with him after his arrest. He also had to step down from being chairman of the county Republicans.

Frank Holman took his place, but he is reportedly still very influential in local politics.

In fact, several sources stated that he persuaded local Republicans to back David Richter in the 3rd District Congressional race. Richter ultimately lost to incumbent Andy Kim. Gilmore has remained active in politics, attending county events and forming a political consulting firm with Commissioner Jack Kelly.

-Chris Lundy contributed to this report

Communities That Care To Hold Virtual Meeting TOMS RIVER – Are you a Toms River community member, parent, work in town, or want to get more involved? Have you heard of Toms River CTC and want to learn more? Come see how you can get involved in the process that aims to reduce substance use in town!

On January 28 at 4 p.m. via Zoom, join an open conversation on how the Toms River Communities that Care is increasing protection in the community to help youth thrive.

For more information, email Clair at clair. janal@rwjbh.org

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY Letters To The Editor

E DITORIAL In 2021, Stop Being Angry And Start Helping You don’t need me to tell you that there are a lot of problems in this world.

It’s easy to get frustrated, doom-scrolling t h roug h Fa ceb o ok or Twitter as more and more problems hit your eyes one after another after another.

Being angry about a problem doesn’t help anyone. You can get mad as you want, you can rant all over social media, but at the end of the day, the problem still exists.

The only thing that has changed is that you’re now worked up over it.

And problems will still exist until you start helping other people.

If something impacts you enough to get angry over it, then try to help someone in need. This is the easiest, most selfless way to make the world a better place. You would be amazed at how an act of kindness will brighten up a dark spot in your life.

There are no shortage of ways to help in your community. You’ll probably fi nd a good cause in the pages of this paper.

Call your church. Call your f ire depar t ment.

Call your first aid volunteers. Call your police benevolent group. Ask

them what you can do to help. Maybe all they need is a check. You’d be surprised at how far a nonprofit can stretch $50.

Food banks, for example, can buy stuff at a great discount. I remember writing once that they were buying fresh meat for 92 cents per pound.

So, a small donation really means a lot to them.

Maybe they need volunteers. Volunteerism is a little tricky these days with coronavirus.

But pe rhaps you ca n make phone calls on their behalf. Maybe you can write to your elected officials asking for change.

T he help you g ive doesn’t have to be this grand. It can simply be cal l i ng some one you know and seeing how they are.

This is just one example of what we can do.

You can’t wait around and hope for someone else to fi x the problem.

No politician is going to wave a magic want and cure society’s ills. Anything good that’s ever come from this world has happened by ordinar y people t r ying to help someone else.

Chris Lundy News Editor

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The Toms River Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

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

Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to

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The weekly deadline is 5 p.m.

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.

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

How Are Democrats Ruining America?

My GOP friends on Facebook talk about Democrats ruining America. But how can they? They haven’t been in power to do so.

If you remember your Civics lessons, you’ll recall that there are three branches of government: The Legislative, Executive, and the Judicial.

The Legislative is split into the Senate and House. Republicans have had control over the Senate ever since 2008!

Mitch McConnell has blocked every piece of legislation that would truly make America great.

It’s only starting in 2021 that Democrats have a scant majority in the Senate. And that’s only a tie with the VP as tiebreaker.

For the first two years of Trump’s term, Republicans controlled the House and the Senate. Democrats got control of the House in January of 2019. That’s it. They’ve had control of the House of Representatives since January of 2019. The first two years of Trump’s term, he had plenty of time to Make America Great. What did he do?

Even if Democrats in the House tried to get a bill passed, they couldn’t because it has to pass in the House and Senate. An identical bill has to be passed in both for it to become law. The big, bad Democrats in the House had literally no power.

Let’s move on to the Judicial.

The Supreme Court has 9 justices. When Trump’s term began, Republicans had a 5-4 majority. Now, at the end of Trump’s term, Republicans have a 6-3 majority.

And of course there’s the Executive branch, which had Trump for the last four years.

So, how can you blame Democrats for your problems when Republicans have been in power for years?

S. T. Barrino Toms River

Support Alzheimer’s Funding Act As not only a Registered Nurse, but also a caregiver for my mother who had Alzheimer’s, I can understand the stress and devastation that the disease can cause to not only their caregivers, but to the health care system in general. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for medical research.

As Congress addresses the needs of people impacted by COVID-19, they are continuing to address the needs of some of the most vulnerable people impacted, Americans living with Alzheimer’s.

Five million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s and that number is expected to triple by 2050. In NJ, 190,000 people are currently living with the disease.

It is the sixth leading cause of death in America and does not have a cure or treatment to slow its progression.

By increasing funding for Alzheimer’s research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by $354 million and by supporting 20 million dollars to implement the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, researchers will have the resources to continue research that could lead to treatments and eventually a cure.

During National Caregivers Month, as we support and acknowledge the thousands of family caregivers throughout the nation, please join with me and the Alzheimer’s Association in encouraging Rep. Andy Kim along with Senators Booker and Menendez to support this critical funding. It is only through increased research funding that new ways to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s will be found.

Mary F. Gerard, RN, BSN Toms River

How Did We Allow This To Happen?

It is sad to see what we have become.

The peaceful transfer of power is the hallmark of our nation. It has been looked upon by the world in amazement and a shining example of democracy. It is now being threatened by people, for whatever reason, believing conspiracy theories cooked up on the internet and promoted by President Trump.

How can any citizen of this great nation look at what happened January 6th and not feel sick and realize things have gone too far?

I will still be fine with my decision.

If my children contract COVID-19, it is unlikely to have a catastrophic effect.

Common sense would dictate, why would I trade that for the unknown?

Like I said, if you feel you should take the vaccine take it. But my decision is not made out of fear, to me it’s just common sense. I’ll let others be guinea pigs.

Jeffrey Ashmen Bayville

Why Didn’t GOP Stop Trump?

Not Surprised

By Capitol Attacks I speak for all of my friends that I’ve talked to in the past week when I say none of us were surprised.

Words become thoughts, and thoughts become actions. And the words of Donald Trump have been hateful towards marginalized groups and the free press even before he became a political figure. Hell, he was claiming the 2016 election was rigged and he won the damn thing!

Right now, I really feel for the majority of sane and sensible people in America, but don’t try to convince us that no one saw this coming.

Because we did, and so did you.

Cindy Thomas Seaside Park

COVID Vaccine Was Rushed Don’t want anyone to think I’m causing any fear. If you feel the vaccine is safe feel free to take it. But when something is fast tracked like this there’s no way to know long-term effects.

In 20 years from now if everyone is walking around with a rare form of cancer, I will be fine with my decision.

In 20 years from now if everyone is not walking around with a rare form of cancer,

John Starnes Bayville

In the wake of the recent insurrection in the U. S. Capitol, the chairman of the Ocean County Republican Club, Frank B. Holman III, wrote (in a recent letter) that he stands “with all Americans in condemning the violent actions that took place.”

He implored us to “work hard to elect leaders who can unite us” and to “discourage personality-based arguments.”

Really?

I do not recall hearing Holman’s voice when Donald Trump was bewailing the evidence-free claim that his election was somehow stolen by a vast, insidious conspiracy of his enemies. He was silent when a majority of House Republicans voted to ignore the conclusions of the Electoral College.

Where was he when his president was standing before the White House on a cold winter’s day exhorting his mindless minions to march down the avenue and storm the capitol? Why were he and his Ocean County contingent there at Trump’s catastrophic rally if they did not countenance his barefaced lies?

A Republican of far greater eminence than the platitudinous Mr. Holman or even Mr. Trump - Abraham Lincoln - said in 1838 “there is no grievance that is a fit object of redress by mob law.”

Michael J. Doherty Berkeley

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The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 7

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

TRENTON - The 10th District legislators, Senator Jim Holzapfel and Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano, are calling on Governor Murphy to allow for COVID-19 vaccinations to be offered at senior communities. The legislators sent a letter to the Governor making that request out of concern for seniors who cannot easily travel to other vaccination sites due to driving

Holzapfel: Governor Should Make Vaccinations Available At Senior Communities restrictions or disabilities.

“Since the rollout of the vaccine, our office has been inundated with calls from residents of senior communities who have been waiting patiently to receive the vaccine but still do not have clarity on how or when it will happen,” said Senator Holzapfel. “Some elderly residents either do not drive or have a disability that prevents them from traveling

easily to other vaccination sites. We could address those concerns and vaccinate as many seniors as possible by sending mobile units directly to each senior community.”

In the letter, the legislators point to the expansion of criteria for vaccinations which makes almost anyone with a chronic condition, including smokers, eligible to be vaccinated.

They noted that Ocean County has just six designated vaccination sites, while Essex County offers twelve.

They said the lack of locations coupled with a competitive appointment scheduling process has prevented many of Ocean County’s senior citizens from receiving or even scheduling their vaccinations.

“If they somehow manage to get an appointment, our

seniors then have to rely on family or friends to bring them to a crowded vaccination site, where they are at greater risk of being exposed to someone with the virus,” added Assemblyman McGuckin. “Vaccinating seniors within the relative safety of their communities is something that should be easy to accomplish with the help of the Governor’s Office.”

“The willingness of our

seniors to get vaccinated isn’t the issue,” added Assemblyman Catalano. “In fact, both the 55 and older community board members and the residents themselves want to get vaccinated as soon as possible so they can begin to put this pandemic behind them.

Let’s alleviate this burden for these seniors and make accessing the vaccine easier for the generation that has already suffered so much.”

Menendez: Probe Urged Over COVID-19 Outbreak At Fort Dix

NEWARK - U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker and Congressman Andy Kim (N.J.-03) led members of the New Jersey congressional delegation in urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General (IG) to expand his ongoing investigation into the Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) COVID-19 response to include its handling of an outbreak at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Fort Dix. FCI Fort Dix currently has over 300 positive COVID-19 cases among incarcerated individuals and staff.

“Earlier this week FCI Fort Dix once again had the most severe COVID-19 outbreak of all federal prisons, and we are alarmed that BOP has repeatedly failed to contain outbreaks at the facility,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to DOJ IG Michael E. Horowitz. “Additional oversight is urgently required to protect the safety of incarcerated individuals and staff at FCI Fort Dix.” The lawmakers have repeatedly called on BOP to improve its strategies for testing and infection control at the facility, but BOP has continued to maintain that the situation at FCI Fort Dix is under control. With the recent sharp uptick in cases and the BOP’s failure to control the outbreak, the lawmakers are calling for greater oversight over FCI Fort Dix in order to

protect the health and safety of the incarcerated individuals and staff at the facility. “…[W]e urge you to immediately investigate the COVID-19 response at FCI Fort Dix, including infection control and testing procedures, access to medical care, impacts on living conditions, and transfers to home confinement,” added the lawmakers.

“We are gravely concerned that without additional oversight, BOP will continue to endanger the lives of the incarcerated individuals and staff at FCI Fort Dix.” U.S. Representatives Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), Josh Gottheimer (N.J.-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09), Donald Payne, Jr. (N.J.-10), Mikie Sherrill (N.J.-11) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (N.J.-12) also signed the letter.

Earlier, Sens. Menendez and Booker sent a letter to FCI Fort Dix Warden David Ortiz, asking for an update on the conditions at the facility and urging him to grant home confinement to eligible individuals. In November and December of last year, members of the delegation sent letters to BOP calling on the agency to extend the moratorium of transfers to FCI Fort Dix, and requested their detailed plans for testing, vaccination, and implementation of home confinement.

A copy of the letter is as follows:

“Dear Inspector General Horowitz, “We write today to thank you for your oversight of the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to date during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to urge you to expand your ongoing investigations to include Federal Correctional Institute (FCI) Fort Dix. Earlier this week FCI Fort Dix once again had the most severe COVID-19 outbreak of all federal prisons, and we are alarmed that BOP has repeatedly failed to contain outbreaks at the facility. Additional oversight is urgently required to protect the safety of incarcerated individuals and staff at FCI Fort Dix. “More than 300 incarcerated individuals and 29 staff members at FCI Fort Dix have active COVID-19 cases.

[1] This is not the first severe outbreak at the facility, as FCI Fort Dix has faced several waves of COVID-19 infections in recent months.

BOP reports that nearly 1,100 incarcerated individuals and 45 staff members at FCI Fort Dix have recovered from the virus, which means that in total more than half of the incarcerated population at the facility has been infected with COVID-19 to date.[2] Even still, these figures may not capture the full picture of COVID-19 infections due to the lack of consistent and universal testing at FCI Fort Dix. In short, BOP has had

ten months to learn how to protect the incarcerated individuals and staff at FCI Fort Dix during this pandemic, and has failed.

“In response to the outbreaks at FCI Fort Dix, as Members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation we have repeatedly called on BOP to improve its strategies for testing and infection control at the facility, including via letters sent to the BOP Director on November 9, 2020 and December 8, 2020. In response, BOP has continued to insist that the situation at FCI Fort

Dix is under control. In his response letter dated December 16, 2020, BOP Director Michael Carvajal noted that “the efficacy of the Bureau’s mitigation strategies can be seen in the very low number of hospitalized inmates.”

However, the recent surge in COVID-19 cases at the facility indicates that the BOP’s mitigation strategies at FCI Fort Dix are not working. We have also heard reports from constituents with incarcerated family members that BOP is failing to provide sufficient medical care, and that living

conditions inside the facility have steeply deteriorated.

“In light of the concerns described above, we urge you to immediately investigate the COVID-19 response at FCI Fort Dix, including infection control and testing procedures, access to medical care, impacts on living conditions, and transfers to home confinement. We are gravely concerned that without additional oversight, BOP will continue to endanger the lives of the incarcerated individuals and staff at FCI Fort Dix.”

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

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Vaccine:

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the Center’s internist and Bindu Balani, who serves as the Center’s infectious disease physician.

Another member of the panel was Hackensack University Medical Center Respiratory Therapist Reyna Berroa. She was one of the first team members to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Following the panelists individual presentations, they responded to a barrage of questions from the 100 plus member virtual audience.

Dr. Sawczuk started off and explained some of the history of the vaccines’development. “Six weeks from now we’re going to be in March and that is going to bring us about one year ago when this whole horrible pandemic reached New Jersey. March 3 or 4 is when the first patient was admitted to Hackensack Meridian Health Center and at that time, we really weren’t sure what we were doing.”

“We had hundreds of patients coming to us with COVID and we didn’t have enough tests to be able to determine in a timely fashion who was infected with COVID and who was not. We were scrounging around to get masks to wear. We weren’t sure we should be wearing masks. We were all worried about our protective gear. Our health care providers were stressed, our patients were dying,” Dr. Sawczuk said.

He noted Hispanics and African Americans “were devastated by this pandemic but at the same time

that we were trying to determine what to do we were making progress. We were working with some new therapeutics and with companies who we had never heard their names before.” He said that new therapies had developed during the course of the year to provide antibodies to COVID patients.

Dr. Sawczuk said as the months went by things began to stabilize and discussion of vaccines began to prevent people from getting the virus. Clinical trials began on vaccine development and two firms in particular were working with a new type of technology. “Pfizer and Moderna were working with a technology called messenger RNA and they were taking parts of the genetic code and they were putting them within a lipid bubble and administering them to test volunteers.”

This led to trails to determine if the vaccines protect individuals from getting the virus and if they were safe to be administered. Thousands of individuals were part of the clinical trials and one of those trials was conducted at Hackensack Meridian Health Center “and I was first volunteer to participate and Dr. Balani was the principal investigator in that trial and I received my first injection at the end of August and my second at the end of September,” Dr. Sawczuk said.

“Then you wait and see if you have any symptoms or any potential side effects. The two vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are effective. They are safe. They do have some minor side effects but the number of serious adverse effects are really quite low,” he added.

He said for those who feel the vaccines were rushed, he answered “the technology to develop these vaccines has been available for years. It just hasn’t been applied in a manner that we’ve seen now to get the products. We do have safe vaccines available for our populations.”

Berroa, a front-line worker who helps COVID patients on a daily basis and has seen the devastation of the pandemic spoke about how she felt receiving the vaccine. “I was one of the first five to receive the vaccine here in December. I just received my second dose last week.”

“The reason that I volunteered to receive it is that I wanted to represent my community not only as a Latino and African American woman but to show that to get the vaccine was safer than not to have the vaccine,” Berroa added.

She said she had experienced a small pain in her left arm the first time and a bit more pain there during her second inoculation. “There were some chills, body aches, a fever in the first 24 hours but I do have to say if that is what I choose to experience for 24 hours versus what I see day to day and the risk of me being infected and coming home to my household is way larger. The reason I chose to do that is that I want health not only here with my co-workers and the patients that we see, my family, my husband, my grandmother.”

“I feel it outweighs the risk and everyone should be vaccinated. I feel we are ready,” Berroa said.

Further details and commentary from this first webinar by Hackensack Meridian Health will be presented in a follow-up article. For additional information concerning the coronavirus vaccines, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org.

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The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 9

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Long Beach Island is known for many things including family entertainment. Here’s a great shot of the Ferris Wheel at Fantasy Island Amusement Park in Beach Haven. ─ Photo by Jen Acolia – Instagram: @acoliamom4

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Page 10, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

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It is not clear why eye melanomas develop. People born with certain growths in or on the eye, as well as those with lighter colored eyes, are at a greater risk for developing ocular melanoma. If your ophthalmologist suspects that you have ocular melanoma, he or she may recommend more tests. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622.

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The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 11

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

YMCA’s Crochet Club Donates Over 1,600 Winter Items Serving all of New Jersey

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By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County YMCA’s Crochet Club hosted its fi rst-ever Made With Love event at The HOPE Center on January 6.

The Ocean County YMCA partnered with the national nonprofit Warm Up America! For the Made With Love event to provide warm winter items for those in need.

“Made with Love has been going strong for seven years now here in Dallas,” said Jenny Bessonette, Executive Director of Warm Up America! “We are so thankful for our national volunteers who generously host their own Made With Love events across the country.”

Andrea Amante, Crochet Club Program Coordinator at the Ocean County YMCA, suggested joining the Made With Love initiative with the goal of crocheting 1,000 items. Soon after, the members of the club worked hard to reach that goal.

“Not only did they tirelessly crochet projects, but they spread the word about our project far and wide,” Amante said.

“As a result, the Ocean County YMCA Crochet Club was able to donate over 1,600 warm winter items to those in need in our community!”

Over 800 items were distributed to families and individuals during the winter at The HOPE Center. The other 750 gifts

have been donated to local Code Blue Warming Centers and to a senior center.

“Throughout the pandemic, these women have continued to meet virtually and work on various other projects,” said Peter T. Rosario, President & CEO of the Ocean County YMCA. The ladies in the Crochet Club crocheted caps for “CLICK for Babies: Crochet a Cap, Help Save an Infant”, and initiative organized by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome. The club crocheted caps in all shades of purple that were distributed to new parents.

Another initiative the club took part in was “Hooked on Crochet” during Dr. Martin Luther King Week of Service.

They crocheted nests for the millions of displaced and injured birds being rescued and rehabilitated as a result of wildfi res in Australia.

“We hope and pray that these projects not only provide physical warmth to those who receive them, but also spiritual and emotional support knowing that each one of these projects was handmade for them with love and kindness by their fellow neighbors,” said Rosario. “This is what the YMCA is all about, strengthening the foundations of community.”

To learn more about Ocean County YMCA or to make a donation, visit ocymca.org.

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Page 12, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

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Willow Springs Names Dr. Michael Rothberg As Medical Director

BRICK - Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center has named Dr. Michael Rothberg as its new medical director. The 163bed skilled nursing facility, located at 1049 Burnt Tavern Road in Brick Township, provides post-hospital care, short-term rehab and long-term residential care.

Dr. Rothberg is board certified in internal medicine. He is affiliated with Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Ocean Medical Center, where he serves as Associate Director of the Internal Residency program.

“Dr. Rothberg possesses more than 27 years of experience in the medical field and is a highly respected physician in the region; this facility and its residents are fortunate to have him leading the clinical team,” said Pam Montemurno, regional director of marketing development with Marquis Health Consulting Services, which supports Willow Springs.

“I look forward to contributing to Willow Springs’ progressive skilled nursing services, which are designed to meet the healthcare needs of our community,” Dr. Rothberg said. “Together with Marquis, this facility is developing a distinctive program of specialized healthcare offerings in partnership with leading regional providers.” Among them, Willow Springs recently i nt roduced new i nfect ious disease services and palliative care programs.

Willow Springs maintains a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare

─Photo courtesy Willow Springs Dr. Michael Rothberg and Medicaid Services (CMS). A highly skilled and vision-driven nursing home consulting fi rm also based in Brick, Marquis Health Consulting Services currently supports Mid-Atlantic and New England facilities totaling nearly 4,500 skilled nursing and assisted living beds.

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The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 13

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

1,000 Hygiene Kits Donated To High Schoolers From Fulfill

By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – Fulfill, the local food bank for Ocean and Monmouth Counties, has donated hygiene kits to high schoolers within the Toms River Regional Schools community.

Fulfill donated 1,000 mesh drawstring bags each containing items such as shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, mouth─Photo courtesy Toms River Regional Schools wash, shaving cream, Sta brought boxes of supplies to the schools to be distributed. and feminine hygiene With the ongoing pandemic, many stuproducts to distribute to students.

The idea was created by Erin Leo, a food dents and families need more help than sourcing and nutrition specialist at Fulfill, who ever. Toms River Schools currently offers wanted to help teenage students who may feel free breakfast and lunch to all students hesitant to accept other forms of assistance and in the district through its food services obtain these often-pricey personal care items. department.

Over the summer, the Ocean County One of Fulfill’s major programs is the backpack program, where students are sent home YMCA partnered with Fulfill to conduct with Ziploc bags of shelf stable food that can the Summer Meals Program that provided be eaten throughout the weekend until school healthy, nutritious snacks and lunches to around 5,000 Toms River children. reopens the following week. “We look forward to continuing our “I am very well aware that students tend to fall off the [backpack] program as they get older, partnership with Fulfill to help families in even as early as 6th grade, and very few high need in our school community,� said Asschoolers participate in the program,� said Leo. sistant Superintendent James Ricotta. “We “Hygiene items are expensive, and I thought can’t thank the organization enough for its high schoolers might be willing to receive this continued generosity and for providing the hygiene kits to our high school students.� type of ‘backpack’ over the food ones.�

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Page 14, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

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Appoint:

Continued From Page 1 Township while starting his ministry.

“You have been a blessing to me all these years,” he told Kelly.

“Reverend our family loves you,” Kelly replied.

Occhipinti referenced the words of the late Alex Trebek, who hosted the TV game show “Jeopardy” for 37 years. Trebek, knowing he was dying of cancer had made a message to viewers stating on the last segment he taped of the show, “may this become a gentler, kinder society, to open your hands and open your hearts.”

Reverend Occhipinti said that is what the Commissioners had done, opened their hearts and hands to the county’s residents. “Our hands are what we do, our hearts are who we are.”

Due to the coronavirus conditions, Ocean County Commissioner Joseph H. Vicari, who won re-election in November, was sworn in to office in a private ceremony on New Year’s Day instead of during the meeting.

Vicari recalled former Ocean County Freeholder and legendary high school football coach Warren Wolf who was his inspiration.

“He said sometimes you win and sometimes you fail but you learn from the experience.”

“Many years ago, this seat belonged to a great man, Warren Wolf. When he ran for State Assembly, I was able to run and become a Freeholder,” Vicari said.

“There is no perfection in life, we learn every day,” Vicari added. He then nominated Ocean County Commissioner Gary Quinn who served as Deputy Director of the Ocean County

The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 15 Board of Freeholders last year. Quinn was soon joined by Gerry P. Little who will serve as the board’s deputy director.

“Certainly 2020 started out just like any other year and quickly turned into something none of us had experienced before. We closed our buildings, we closed our parks, our roads emptied. Doctors and grocery store clerks became heroes along with delivery drivers, nurses, government workers, law enforcement and EMTs just to name a few,” Quinn said.

Quinn added, “the good news is we are starting to see the rollout of the vaccination to curtail the spread of the coronavirus and while the task ahead is monumental, it is the greatest hope we have to end this deadly virus that has affected so many of us.”

“I can assure you; the Ocean County Board of Commissioners will continue to provide you with the best services and programs possible, albeit the delivery may be a bit different in order to protect the health and safety of our staff and residents,” Quinn added.

He also promised residents that “there will be no surprises when we soon announce the county budget” which will be under the direction of Commissioner Kelly, who serves as liaison to the Finance Department.

Quinn said “this board will again present a budget that combines affordability with outstanding core services. We will also continue to maintain our AAA Bond rating. We will not mortgage our children’s future or our grandchildren’s future. We will provide the services you need. We will come out of this better and stronger so long as we continue to work together for the common good – the health, safety and welfare of all.”

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 16, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

Dear Joel

By Joel Markel

COVID-19 Vaccine Concerns Divide Couples

Dear Joel, My husband and I are in total disagreement over taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

Based upon his age, he will be eligible to receive it before me, and despite my pleas for him to get it, he says he will pass on it for now. He has no underlying health issues, and says he is not worried. How can I convince him to get the vaccine?

Answer: It’s understandable that you want your husband to be protected from this insidious virus, but you must respect his choice. In time, he may change his mind,

as vaccines become more available, with new ones on the way. In the meantime, you are free to get yours and to continue to practice safe COVID-19 protocols.

Thank you for writing.

Joel Write to joel@preferredcares.com.

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

If you or anyone else is in need of home health care, call Preferred at 732-840-5566 (800603-CARE (2273). “Home health care with feeling. (“Home Health Care with Feeling”)

Do you have something you want everyone to know? Is there an issue that needs to be addressed? Write a letter to make yourself heard.

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH •

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How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?

There are many confl icting articles focusing on the longevity of hearing aids. In my practice, the average life is between 4-6 years but there are many factors that will impact the lifespan of a hearing aid: How long you wear you’re hearing aids on a daily basis. For example, if you wear your hearing instruments 12 hrs./ day, that equates to 4400 hrs. per year or 20,000 hours over a 5-year period.

Frequency of cleaning: We encourage all of our patients to use a soft dry toothbrush to clean the hearing aids on a daily basis. If you fail to do so, the hearing aids will break down frequently.

Ask you hearing care professional for AUDIOWIPES as well.

Where hearing aids are worn: In general, the ultra-small “custom” hearing aids have poor reliability statistics and

will be replaced 1-2 yrs. sooner than other styles.

A person’s body physiology: Many patients create excessive cer umen buildup (wax) and profusely sweat.

Sweat creates moisture which commonly invades the circuit and shuts down the hearing aid. An electronic dehumidifier is recommended to dry out the hearing instruments.

Frequency of Maintenance: Just like a car needs periodic oil and filter changes, tire rotations, etc. you’re hearing aids should be checked by a hearing healthcare professional at least two times year.

If that Practice does not schedule you for these visits in advance, I would go somewhere else.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always here to answer your questions about hearing care issues.

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!

Take Survey And Help Plan Ocean County’s Future Public Transportation

OCEAN COUNTY – Help improve the transportation system so it works better for you!

Take the NJTPA’s quick Plan 2050 survey now through February 8. The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority includes Ocean County.

Why your input matters: Your input is vitally important in determining North Jersey’s (including Ocean County’s) transportation future. The NJTPA oversees more than $2 billion in transportation investments each year.

Right now, they’re thinking about policies, programs and improvements for the future.

They want to hear your concerns and your ideas on how to make the region’s transportation system the best it can be.

Take the quick survey and you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift card to a local business of your choice.

For more information about the North Jersey Transportation Authority and the survey, visit theoceancountylibrary.org/sites/default/files/ resources/documents/njtpa-2020.pdf

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 17

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

6 Solutions For Gastrointestinal Upset

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. Heartburn, nausea, constipation or other gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are no fun.

Unfortunately, neither are many of the medications used to treat them. Some popular categories of medication that can upset your stomach include antibiotics, cholesterol pills, acid blocking heartburn drugs and hormones such as oral contraceptives.

By a mile, acid blockers are the most popular over-the-counter (OTC) drug that people take. Millions of people use them due to easy accessibility. If you do, you should know they are one of the strongest “drug muggers” out there, capable of robbing your body of practically every essential nutrient you need for health! They can reduce levels of probiotics, magnesium, folate, B12, calcium, vitamin C, iron and others.

Laxatives can help safely relieve a person’s occasional constipation, but when used excessively, they’ll reduce levels of several minerals including blood-pressure stabilizing potassium and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Complications from muscle cramps, to vision problems, to heart palpitations can result. If you get diagnosed with diseases related to your eyes, muscles or heart, it could be related to routine use of laxatives. I have a longer version of this article hosted at my website.

Whatever the problem and whatever cause, here are some natural solutions to help you if you’re experiencing GI discomfort: 1. Zinc Carnosine. If you have mouth sores, this could be helpful. These supplements help heal the mucosal lining and there is research that shows it helps repair the gut and reduce inflammation in the mouth. It can help a little with gastric ulcers/pain. Generally taken as twice daily,

once before breakfast and again at bedtime for a total of 8 weeks.

2. Make Marshmallow Tea. If you have reflux (GERD), heartburn, peptic ulcers, hiatal hernia, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, diarrhea, celiac disease, or H. pylori infection, then this remedy can help you. The magic happens because marshmallow root (not the fluffy confection!) contains a lot of mucilage, a gooey, gelatinous substance that some plants naturally produce. When you drink it, it acts as a demulcent, creating a soothing film that coats your irritated mucous membranes and relieves pain and inflammation quickly. My recipe video is on youtube which shows how to make it.

3. Get Some Mastic Gum Mastic gum is a resin extracted from the mastic tree, Pistacia lentiscus. It’s used as a natural remedy for many intestinal and bowel disorders, including indigestion, acid reflux, inf lammatory bowel disease, gastritis, ulcers and dyspepsia.

4. Focus on Fiber One of the easiest ways to relieve constipation is to get enough fiber.

You don’t have to supplement necessarily, just increase your intake of vegetables and fruits.

5. Use DGL Licorice root contains an abundance of healing flavonoids and phytoestrogens, along with the anti-inflammatory compound glycyrrhizin. It can soothe irritated membranes. DGL is best taken in a chewable tablet about 20 minutes before meals.

6. Pump up your Probiotics. These are the friendly bacteria in your digestive tract that make up your microbiome. The more friendly ones you have, the better you feel and faster your transit time.

(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.

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Page 18, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

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 Administra-

tion 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 oceancountyparks.org or call 732-506-9090.

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Suffering from back, neck or joint pain?

WE CAN HELP! Call Today!

732.202.3000 175 Bartley Road • Jackson, NJ 08527 732-370-4700 • www.bartleyhealthcare.com

WE AIM TO PLEASE...

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 19

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent

Help Wanted

Seaside Heights - 3BR, 2BA, furnished condo apartment. A/C, W/D. Available 01/01/2021 – 06/30/2021.

No pets/No smoking. $2100/month + utilities. 732-822-7688 (8)

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.

Personals Crestwood Village Lady - Seeks companion 60-75 for low-key home living. Easy going person.

Call 732-281-7616.

(5)

Misc.

LOST KEYS - Christmas week.

Most likely in a store, parking lot in ocean county. One small gold key, one small key with black square top. ( also lost a bunch of store discount cards, the small ones, could have been separately? Not important to recover) RV keys. Reward. Please call or text Chris 732-664-3605. (7)

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. (8) Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac.

Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l types: collectibles, military, etc.

Call 917-681-6809. (t/n) CASH PAID!! - LP records, ste-reos, turntables, musical instru-ments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you.

732-804-8115.

(44)

Items For Sale H.O. Trains - 3x6 board, prewired, 2 engines, (8) cars, round house, (8) switches, folding table, $135.

Bumper pool table and all accessories, cues, etc. Antiques, coins and paper money. John Z. 609-698-4759. (5)

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) Floral designer/Florist - 2 to 3 yrs experienced. Part time and holidays. April Showers Florist Jackson NJ. 732-664-0546.

(7) Housekeeper Wanted - Older couple needs someone to clean home 1 day a week. You must be animal friendly. 609-758-9089.

(7) IMMEDIATE JOB OPENINGS Saba Home Health Care. Working with a quality team with over 25 years’ experience. NOW HIRING RN, LPN, Certified Home Health Aides, Live-ins, & Companions. FullTime/Part-Time. Flexible schedule.

Incentive Programs. Referral Bonus Paid time off. Fill application on-line at Sabahomehealthcare.com or call us at 732-797-0700. Please send resume to Ssalu@sabahhc.com. (t/n) Bodyshop In Howell, Lakewood, Freehold Area - Looking for a bodyman, must know how to use a frame machine. Working papers a must. Excellent Pay. Call/Text 848-525-8282.

(7) Help Wanted: Rceptionist For Toms River CPA Office - (Through 4/15/21). Processing tax returns (will train), some typing, filing and clerical work. $ 15/Hr. Pleasant non-smoking office. Call 732-270-3966.

(8) 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) P/T 1st Class Machinist - w/Tools needed weekdays in Lakewood for small Lathe/Bridgeport work. 732-

367-3100, ext. 107.

(4)

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

Call Lee 732-719-0018.

(51)

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) 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)

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

(37) LANDSCAPING - Fall Cleanups.

Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect.

MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000.

NO JOB TOO SMALL! (52) Care Provider - Offering assistance with daily activities for both the elderly and adults. 23 years experience. Nancy 732- 864 - 5359.

(4) 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.

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

Call Jim 732-674-3346.

(39)

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

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

Gutter Cleaning - $60 special, Holiday City, Silver Ridge homes. Also Leaf removal. Call Jim 609-335-0330.

(52)

Credit Card#

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

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

Print Name:

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.

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

Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (50)

Exp.

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MAIL TO: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

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

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Foreboding 8 Optimistic 12 Pump product 15 “Give me an example” 16 “The real story is ... “ 18 Collision simulation aids 20 Scapula neighbor, for short 21 Big name in nail polish 22 “Yeah, sure” 23 Partnership letters 25 Cleaning conveniences 30 “Scary Movie” reaction 33 Extraordinary little one, in folklore 37 Poke tuna 38 Chocolate dog 40 Nabisco cookie 41 Neither’s partner 42 Part of a relay 43 Junk collector

45 Overly 46 “So-so” 47 Mark for good 48 Spanish bear 49 Hong Kong lang.

50 Place with drawing rooms 53 Womb occupant 55 Apparition 57 Kobe cash 58 About 61 Duracell size 63 Salty waters 66 Begin all over again ... and what 18-, 33-, 43- and 50-Across all do (almost), as indicated by the circled letters 72 Ready for sleep 73 Lady Gaga’s debut album 74 Squid’s defense 75 Therefore 76 Left formally Down 1 How music can be stored

2 Farm female 3 “Don’t worry about me” 4 Settle snugly 5 Awed reaction 6 Golden rule preposition 7 Trickles (through) 8 Tell (on) 9 Med. condition with repetitive behavior 10 Man’s name that sounds like a slowcooked dish 11 “Delicious!”

12 Smooth-talking 13 Out of the wind 14 Part of CBS: Abbr.

17 Barn-raising sect 19 Drinks a bit at a time 24 Pasadena institute 26 Texter’s “Then again ... “ 27 Bust maker 28 “Summer Nights” musical 29 Political bragging point, when it’s thriving

30 Actress Hayek 31 Joyful shout 32 First first lady 34 Online promo 35 Senseless 36 Khal __, Daenerys’ husband in HBO’s “Game of Thrones” 39 Strips for breakfast 44 Opportunity 51 Hybrid picnic utensil 52 Fertile soil 54 “Take care of yourself” 56 Mariner’s supports 58 Sparkling Italian wine 59 Knock for a loop 60 Wall map marker 62 Feel sore 64 Apex 65 Spot for a mower 67 Begin a hole, with “up” 68 Four-term prez 69 Oil field sight 70 Musician Yoko 71 __ center

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SOLUTIONS

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

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SCARF PUPIL GENTLY SCROLL - SPIN CYCLES

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The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 21

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

OCC To Offer STEAM Virtual Camps For Kids

By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has announced that they have partnered with a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) leader to offer various virtual STEAM camps.

The camps will take place from January to August for children aged 8 to 14. The programs are provided via a partnership with Black Rocket, a national leader in STEAM education for children.

A variety of times will be offered for the classes as well as weekday and weekend classes. Each class will have a live instructor and will also have small break-out groups with Black Rocket coaches. Parents can choose from age-appropriate courses in both

the morning and afternoon. Topics include Video Game Design, Coding, Animation, Minecraft, Roblox, 3D Modeling, Esports, Virtual Reality and more.

“Parents are desperate for help and kids are lonely,” said Richard Ginn, CEO of Black Rocket. “After health and the economy, education is the third great need to address in this pandemic. At Black Rocket we are all parents, so we get it. We want to help Ocean County College empower kids to be creative and help moms and dads get a break for a few hours.”

To register for youth programs online, visit grunincenter.org/event/virtual-steam-camps.

For information only, email grunincenter@ ocean.edu.

Police: DWI Downs Pole, Causes Fire And Outages

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – Police said a drunk driver answered his cell phone while driving, causing him to take down a utility pole and then flee the scene.

The incident happened at around 8 p.m. on January 17. Wilfredo Flores, 47, of Toms River, was heading east on Bay Avenue.

While taking a turn, he allegedly answered a call on his phone. This caused him to swerve off the roadway, hitting a curb and utility pole. This split the pole in half. A second pole was damaged as the wires pulled on it.

Flores then fled and was stopped by a concerned citizen, said police, who soon arrived at the scene.

Several neighborhoods were without power

through the night while Verizon and Jersey Central Power & Light repaired the poles. Traffic lights along Bay Avenue were out between Vaughn Avenue and Indian Hill Road. The downed wires ignited two brush fires which were quickly extinguished by Toms River Fire Companies 1 and 2.

Flores was charged with Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Failure to Report an Accident, Unregistered Vehicle, and a cell phone violation.

Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.

The vehicle was impounded as per John’s Law. The accident is being investigated by Toms River Traffic Safety Officer Robert Westfall.

Every Saturday Night Seating at 7p.m.

Now taking reservations for our Five Course Steak Dinner, which includes your choice of Ribeye, Filet, New York Strip or Salmon Steak. Enjoy soup, salad dinner rolls, roasted asparagus with roasted potatoes, and slice of red velvet cake for dessert. $60/pp by reservation only. BYOB and live piano music during dinner.

Please call the Mathis House at 732-818-7580 or visit mathishouse600main.com for more information.

600 Main Street Downtown Toms River, NJ 08753

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

R.C. Shea & Assoc. AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

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

Robert C. Shea Esq.

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

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

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

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

We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.

The Basic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in several areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries. The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else.

The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets.

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

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

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

When you purchase the Standard Policy, you must elect a “tort option” that will determine your right to make a claim. You must select either the “limitation on lawsuit option” or the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” If you purchase the Basic Policy then you are assigned the “limitation on lawsuit option.” We recommend that you choose the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” Ask your insurance representative what is the actual dollar amount that your overall premium will increase if you elect the “no limitation on lawsuit option.”

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

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

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

Former State Probation Officer Gets 10 Year Sentence For Sexual Assault

By Bob Vosseller FREEHOLD – A former Monmouth County probation officer will spend 10 years in State Prison having been sentenced today for sexually assaulting a woman he supervised on Drug Court probation.

He was also charged and convicted of making false representations to the Court according to Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni who made the announcement this afternoon that Henry C. Cirignano, 48, of Wall Township, an 18-year veteran of the New Jersey State Probation Department in the Vicinage of Monmouth, was sentenced to 10 years in a New Jersey state prison by Ocean County Presiding Criminal Court Judge Wendel E. Daniels in Toms River.

Cirignano must serve six years, nine months and 20 days before becoming eligible for any release on parole and he will also be subject to parole supervision for life, required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law. He also faces a lifetime ban on public

employment in the State of New Jersey, as well as forfeiture of his benefits.

Cirignano pled guilty on February 24, 2020 before Judge Daniels to three counts of second degree Sexual Assault by Coercion, and one count of second degree Official Misconduct. He was arrested in February 2019 and charged with the sexual assault of a 23-year-old woman he supervised on Drug Court probation.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office conducted an investigation that revealed that between August 2016 and January 2019, Cirignano engaged in sexual activity with the female probationer while she was under his supervision.

Further investigation led to the filing of additional charges, including charges of official misconduct, after it was determined that he misused his official position to conceal his illicit activities over that same period of time.

According to evidence gathered in the (Probation - See Page 23)

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

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Alzheimer’s Online Support Group Once a Month at 2pm (Call for details)

In a Safe, Comfortable Setting Like the Home They’ve Always Known!

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

Send your pictures to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com

Brick • 320 Herbertsville Road Toms River • 1126 Lakewood Road

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Probation:

Continued From Page 22 investigation Cirignano threatened to create false probation violations resulting in incarceration unless the victim provided sexual favors to him. Cirignano’s sexual assaults upon the victim were frequent and repetitive. He also lied repeatedly to the Drug Court judge presiding over his victim’s case providing false excuses for the victim’s failure to appear in court.

Gramiccioni said, “Cirignano’s actions represent the worst type of predatory behavior. He trampled upon the oath he took as a public servant, and abused his power by forcing the victim to provide sexual favors, extorting her with threats of incarceration if she refused.”

“Thankfully, he will serve a significant jail sentence, be registered as a sex offender, and never hold a public job again,” the

The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021, Page 23 Prosecutor said.

Cirignano remains in the Ocean County Correctional Institution where he has been since his arrest on February 4, 2019.

Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Thomas Fichter and Kristen Anastos handled this case. Cirignano is represented

by Ocean Township attorney Mitchell Ansell.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the leadership of Prosecutor Gramiccioni, instituted a Corruption Tip Line, designed to solicit the public’s assistance in identifying and targeting corruption, fraud and misconduct occurring in local governmental agencies.

Citizens may report concerns via the following: Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Corruption Tip Line – 855-7-UNJUST (855 786-5878); or E-mail at: corruption@mcponj.org write “Corruption/ Misconduct Tip” in the subject line.

Online Comedy Show Supports Local Animal Shelter

FORKER RIVER – The “Dogs, Cats & Comedians: It’s Stand Pup Comedy” show will be held on January 26 from 8 to 9 p.m.

The Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park Shelter is partnering with Comic Cure for a fun online event starring adoptable pets and funny humans including Fred Stoller from Seinfeld, Laurie Kilmartin from Conan, and others from HBO, Funny

or Die, and MTV. Tickets are $20 and 50 percent of your purchase will be donated to Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park when you use this link to purchase your tickets: standpuponline2.eventbrite.com/?aff=AHS. This event is for mature audiences and a Zoom link will be emailed to you once you’ve purchased your tickets.

Bartley Healthcare Holds Successful Vaccine Clinic

─Photo courtesy Bartley Healthcare A resident gets her vaccine at Bartley Healthcare JACKSON - The Bartley Healthcare Campus is on their way to fully protecting themselves from the COVID-19 virus!

Bartley held their first COVID-19 vaccine clinics the first week in January when the first doses were administered to employees and residents. They will be receiving their second dose on the campus by the end of January.

Employees and residents are enthusiastic about getting this opportunity to take this big step in eliminating the COVID threat on the Bartley Campus and allowing the reopening to visitors and the public.

Vaccines coupled with extensive testing of employees and residents, along with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) adds to

the safety of the Bartley Healthcare Campus.

Employees have been diligent in their use of PPE and remaining socially distant at work in their everyday lives. Despite the high threat COVID-19 currently poses in Ocean County and New Jersey, The Bartley Campus has remained a COVID-19 free campus for well over 7 months.

Bartley Healthcare and the Orchards Assisted Living are welcoming new residents onto their campus who can benefit from the vaccine availability and the measures in place to provide for a protected living environment.

For information contact Bartley Healthcare at 732-298-6575 or email at info@bartleyhealthcare.com

NO-FAIL POPOVERS, NO SPECIALTY PAN REQUIRED

By America’s Test Kitchen

POPOVERS

Serves 6 to 8 1 1/4 cups (6 3/4 ounces) bread flour 3/4 teaspoon table salt 1 1/2 cups 2% low-fat milk, heated to 110 to 120 degrees 3 large eggs Salted butter 1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and heat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly spray cups of popover pan with vegetable oil spray. Using a paper towel, wipe out cups, leaving a thin film of oil on bottom and sides.

2. Whisk together flour and salt in an 8-cup liquid measuring cup or medium bowl.

Add milk and eggs and whisk until mostly smooth (some small lumps are OK). Distribute batter evenly among prepared cups in the popover pan. Bake until popovers are

lofty and deep golden brown all over, 40 to 45 minutes. Serve hot, passing butter separately.

Recipe notes This batter comes together quickly, so start heating your oven before gathering your ingredients and equipment. Our recipe works best in a 6-cup popover pan, but you can substitute a 12-cup muffin tin, distributing the batter evenly among the 12 cups; start checking these smaller popovers after 25 minutes. Whole or skim milk can be used in place of the low-fat milk. We strongly recommend weighing the flour for this recipe. Do not open the oven during the first 30 minutes of baking; if possible, use the oven window and light to monitor the popovers.

Leftover popovers can be stored in a zipper-lock bag at room temperature for up to two days; reheat directly on middle rack of 300-degree oven for 5 minutes.

(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) 2021 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Page 24, The Toms River Times, January 23, 2021

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