2024-01-27 - The Jackson Times

The JACKSON Times Vol. 20 - No. 32

In This Week’s Edition

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Trail Upgrade Is Town’s First Female Eagle Scout Project

BREAKING NEWS @

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Government Pages 6

Photo courtesy Burgess Family

Community News Pages 7-9

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 10

Classifieds Page 19

Jackson Eagle Scout Kaiya Burgess stands beside a sign that welcomes hikers to Swamp Loop Trail.

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Kaiya Burgess is the first female scout in the township to earn her Eagle Scout award as part of Scouts BFA (under the Boy Scouts of America).

Scouts BFA has boy and girl troops which work together as a link.

Jackson Troop 204 is made up of boys while Troop 402 is made up of girls. The two troops work together on a variety of community projects and other activities throughout the year.

“I did a trail cleanup at the Swamp Loop Trail located at the Forest Resource Education

Center (FREC) over on Don Connor Boulevard,” she said.

“It is now a whimsical trail open to the public to walk along, filled with gnomes and outdoor decor, with a picnic table and small bench,” she said. “We cleaned up the trail from an unused trail that

was full of bushes and stuff you couldn’t get through.”

“We added a picnic table, a nice bench plus the gnomes,” she added.

FREC provides an opportunity for people of all ages to learn and discover New Jersey’s (Eagle Scoout See Page 4)

January 27, 2024

School Board Swears In Members, Honors Educators

By Bob Vosseller JACK SON – T he School District started off the new year by swearing in two ret u r n i ng member s for new terms during the Board of Education’s reorganization meeting, followed by honor i ng educators later in the month.

Incumbents Tara Rivera and Brian McCarron were sworn in to three-year terms on the Jackson Board of Education.

McCarron was chosen by the Board in D e c e mb e r 20 22 t o f ill a one -yea r u nexpired ter m. He is married and has two sons that are enrolled in Jackson schools and has been a resident of Jackson for more than

20 years.

He is a retired police officer. He was assigned as the first School Resource Officer to his school district’s middle school.

This year marks Rivera’s seventh on the board. She has been a resident of Jackson for more than 26 years and has two children.

She earned her Master’s Degree and has a background in Education, Special Education and Psychology.

She said that she is committed to working alongside other board members in all aspects to ensure all students reach their maximu m potential with the highly qualified staff that support (BOE - See Page 4)

$78M Courtroom Annex Project Awarded

Rendering courtesy Ocean County An artist rendering shows the northeast corner of the new justice complex annex on Hooper Avenue in Toms River Township.

By Bob Vosseller O C E A N COU N T Y – Me mb e r s of t he O ce a n Cou nt y Boa rd of Commissioners took another step toward building a new annex to the Ocean County Justice Complex on Hooper Avenue in Toms River.

During the Board’s last meeting the panel awarded a contract to the lowest qualif ied bidder, Er nest Bock & Sons in the amount of $78 million. Work on

the project could begi n in the spring and completion is estimated for 2026.

Five bids were received by Ocean County for the project with the highest bidder totaling $97,857,000.

Ocean County Commissioner John P. Kelly said, “our overall goal is to create a building that will function properly. We are building what we need. We are not building too much.”

(Court- See Page 4)

Photo Courtesy Jackson Schools Jackson teachers and educational service professionals hold up their certificates presented to them by Board President Giuseppe Palmeri (standing at far left)and Vice Board President Tina Kas (standing at far right) during the latest Jackson Board of Education meeting.

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Page 4, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

Eagle Scout: Continued From Page 1

trees and forests. As the only forestry education center in New Jersey, it has nine miles of trails on 900 acres for recreation such as fishing, horseback riding, and hiking.

“Kaiya and her team showed up ready for action, working hard to clear the Swamp Loop Trail of downed branches, skillfully widened the trail, and conducted much needed weeding,” said Mary Evangelista, Resource Interpretative Specialist at FREC. She added, “Kaiya’s project will continue to mean a lot to the Forest Resource Education Staff and visitors for years to come.”

Antarctic Scout Trip Kaiya also discussed her scout trip to Antarctica with The Jackson Times, saying “we actually travelled with three scouts and two leaders from New Jersey to join the remaining 34 scouts and leaders from across the country to create the first American group of scouts to go to Antarctica ever. We joined scouts from

BOE:

Continued From Page 1 them. Her vision is to have transparency in all areas and to help families and staff work collectively and respectfully.

The board also voted unanimously for Giuseppe Palmeri to continue on as the Board president and Tina Kas to remain as the vice president of the Board.

Palmeri said he is looking forward to working with the board to maximize community involvement in the school district. Kas said she seeks to maintain high academic standards. Her priorities are giving students the best educational tools and maintaining the varied programs within the district.

Court:

Continued From Page 1 The annex will be four stories and 125,000 square feet. It includes a single secure entrance and screening location and separated circulation for the public, judges and prisoners.

“This gives us the opportunity to solve one of our biggest problems and that is the movement of people in this facility,” Kelly added. “The new design gives us one single controlled location to move the public in and out of the building.

This enhances security and safety for everyone using the facility.”

The public will access the building by using the overhead walkway across Hooper Avenue that is attached to the Ocean County Parking Garage. The

California, Tennessee, Virginia, Maryland, Texas and Canada.”

“It was a unique and thrilling experience. It was a three-week trip starting with everyone meeting in Texas to f ly to Buenos Aires together. Spending two days there exploring the city and meeting some local scouts was really cool,” she added.

Kaiya said, “we even took private tango lessons. Then we flew to Ushuaia, Argentina. It’s a fishing town on the edge of the southern tip of Patagonia called Tierra del Fuego. It was fun going on a hike through the park area from a spot called “Fin del Mundo,” a tiny little post office at the end of the world where Argentina meets Chile near Cape Horn.”

“Then we set sail on the Plancius, a 235-foot boat, on a 2.5-day journey across the Drake Passage, the roughest seas on Earth,” she added. “Things got more fun once we sailed into Antarctic waters and started exploring islands along the Antarctic peninsula. The highlights were seeing a ton of penguins up close and personal and a variety of seals all over the place.”

“The greatest moment was kayaking through ice floes and having a minke whale surface only a couple feet away from me.

Staring eye to eye with a whale was surreal. The lessons learned on this journey were getting to know cultures from not just Argentina, but all over Europe and Latin America from the crew on the boat, coming to understand just how big the world really is.”

She chose to join Scouts BSA as “girls were allowed to join Scouts BSA on February 1, 2019. I had previously been a Girl Scout, but the program always seemed like such a watered-down version of what my older brother had as a Boy Scout.”

“I didn’t want to continue with them after winning a ton of cookie sales awards. With Scouts BSA, I learned peer leadership development, wilderness survival techniques, orienteering, first aid, swimming, lifesaving, environmental sciences, nature study, geology, rappelling and climbing, spelunking, woodcarving, leather working, art, astronomy, rocketry, scuba diving, hiking, canoeing, rowing, oceanography, and citizenship of the community, nation,

world, and society as a whole,” she said.

Kaiya said, “scouting actually developed my interest in art. I now feel confident speaking with people, giving instructions, helping others and taking care of myself in any number of situations. I feel like I know myself better now.”

Her father Chris Burgess who is also involved with Scouts BSA said he couldn’t be prouder of Kaiya “for all she has chosen to do. Scouting is the single greatest program available for our youth today. From kindergarten through college, it develops our children into the upstanding citizens we hope our future holds.”

Kaiya will be graduating from Jackson Memorial High School this June. She is an art major and is planning to go to college to study art and psychology and to become an art therapist.

As for scouting, “once you reach 18, you’ve ‘aged out’ of Scouts BSA, but Venturing and Explorers are available until 21.

At this point, my scouting involvement has turned to helping my little sister begin her journey as a Lion Cub in Cub Scout Pack 204 as a kindergartener.”

Top Educators School officials announced this year’s teacher and educational service professional (ESP) of the year award winners.

The winners include: Liberty High School teacher of the year Anthony Mastromarino, and Anthony Myres as ESP, Memorial High School teacher of the year Laura Fecak, and Joan Dillon as ESP. Goetz Middle School teacher of the year Stacey Terranova, and Stacie Kajewski as ESP. McAuliffe Middle School teacher of the year Odette Farrell, and Lindsey O’Brien as ESP. Crawford-Rodriguez Elementary School teacher of the year Catherine Carley, and Ellen Goldberg as ESP.

Elms Elementary School teacher of the year Melissa Zecca, and Jacqueline Burnside as ESP. Holman Elementary School teacher of the year Michele Lardieri, and Haley Caravella as ESP. Johnson Elementary School teacher of the year Lisa Cirigliano, and Patricia Ciaccio as ESP. Rosenauer Elementary School teacher of the year Gina Kenney, and Debra Jones as ESP. Switlik Elementary School teacher of the year Diana McElwee, and Amy Melchiorri as ESP. Mayor Michael Reina and the Council congratulated all the winners. “Teachers are our first line heroes when it comes to our children and Jackson has some of the

best teachers in the world,” the mayor said.

“These men and women spend their days teaching our children the skills they are going to need to succeed in life and have helped countless students achieve their dreams - whether it’s college, an art, a trade career or the military. The district is consistently rated one of the best in the state and it shows,” Reina added.

Councilman Scott Sargent, who previously served on the Jackson BOE, commended this year’s recipients.

“As a school board member, it was an honor each year to present these awards.

These are the people who are on the front lines in our education system and this group has demonstrated they go above and beyond to educate and guide our children down the path to success in their lives,” Sargent said.

walkway will be undergoing extensive renovations as part of the work. The new building is designed to consolidate criminal courtrooms and probation while providing space for more efficient administration and court services.

The project includes eight new courtrooms - two of them larger than the others - and is expected to serve the needs of the county through 2035.

Kelly noted the county’s growth in population stating, “Ocean County government provides services and programs to meet that growth. This justice complex annex will help us meet the growth in our judicial system.” The new building also allows for consolidation of cour t facilities into fewer buildings ultimately providing a reduction in building leases.

“We have had family courts, probation

ser vices, and even a criminal cour t scattered among buildings in downtown Toms River. This is all resulting in extra cost to the county for rent and security,” Kelly added. “The consolidation is another example of how we will improve security and reduce expenses.”

Deputy Director of the Ocean Count y B o a r d of C o m m i s s io n e r s G a r y Quin n extended his appreciation to Commissioner Kelly for shepherding the project to fruition. “This is a very complex project to put together because it addresses many areas of the judicial system which is overseen by the state.

Commissioner Kelly worked diligently to get us to this point.”

New Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi abstained from voting on the contract noting he had only joined the board on January 3 and continues to

review the project while the other Commissioners have been working on it for a number of years.

The Board of Commissioners approved a $92 million funding ordinance in August 2023 for the project. The project architect is Clarke, Caton, Hintz of Trenton.

The plans needed to be approved by the Office of the State Comptroller prior to the project being able to move forward with seeking bids.

“This project has been discussed and planned for quite some time. It will be a welcome upgrade to our court system. I commend Commissioner Kelly and the professional staff for taking their time in planning the annex and paying close attention to the details that will help us provide a much needed and improved facility,” Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea said.

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The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 5

National Guard Opens New Armory

Photo courtesy NJ National Guard Mark C. Olsen The new armory will house operations for the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER – The ribbon was cut for the Lakehurst Readiness Center (armory) during a recent ceremony at the new facility.

The nearly $16 million, 40,762-squarefoot armory will provide the soldiers of Bravo Company, 250th Brigade Support Battalion, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard

with a modern, state-of-the-art facility with classroom training, administration, maintenance operations, and equipment storage.

“I am grateful for the support of the federal legislature and Governor (Phil) Murphy in prioritizing the funding for this project, and for the many teams that have guided this project from concept to reality in the last five years,” Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou said.

Hou who serves as the Adjutant General of New Jersey and Commissioner of Military and Veterans Affairs added, “this facility gives our soldiers a phenomenal foundation for the training that will prepare them for future calls of our state and nation.”

Brigadier General Hou explained, “this means that the core maintenance unit of our combat brigade has a place to perform its mission. That’s 40,000 square feet of turning wrenches. That’s 40,000 square feet of maintenance activities for the Brigade’s combat vehicles and for our E-4s,

that’s 40,000 square feet of preparation for the [noncommissioned officer] corps.”

“Finally, an armory is so much more than just a building. It is a place for our units to own as their home station, conduct training, and build camaraderie. It is a place for our soldiers to bring their loved ones on Family Day,” she noted.

“The completion of this new building also symbolizes the many successful partnerships that go into a project of this scale.

The opening of the Lakehurst Readiness Center demonstrates our mutual commitment to the priorities of people, readiness, and modernization,” she added.

Congressman Chris Smith (R-4th) was present for the ceremony. He stated, “even as we mark the opening of this facility, 2,000 of our fellow citizens from the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team plan for their deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.”

“These New Jersey ‘citizen-soldiers’ will be deploying to the Middle East in what will be the largest deployment of New Jersey

National Guard personnel since 2008,” he added. Smith serves as senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

“Now - more than ever - the United States must enhance and invest in the capabilities that provide deterrence and military power projection across the globe to mitigate threats posed by malign actors. The price of peace is eternal vigilance, and that is exactly what you are doing here,” Smith told the Bravo Company command team.

Smith commented, “modern infrastructure like this new, 40,000-square-foot Readiness Center, and the sprawling two-bay KC-46 hanger opened a few months ago, are tangible evidence of the vital and ever-expanding role the Joint Base plays in defending freedom and ensuring the security of the United States.”

The project, that is federally funded through the military construction program will achieve the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Certification, a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement.

Prom Dress Collection Drive TOMS RIVER – The spirit of giving continues after the holiday season winds down! All branches of the Ocean County Library will be collection sites for gently-used formal dresses and gowns during OCL’s 2024 Prom Dress

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The collection drive precedes the library’s next Prom Dress Giveaway in March 2024 in the OCL Toms River, Brick, and Little Egg Harbor branches. Donated dresses will be available free of

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Page 6, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

Spotlight On Government Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

BP, Equinor Pull Out Of Wind Project Off Monmouth County Coastline From The Desk Of

Congressman

Chris Smith WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) welcomed news that BP and Equinor have cancelled their contract for the “Empire Wind 2” offshore wind project located off the Monmouth County coastline: “Just two months after Orsted pulled out of its huge taxpayer-subsidized deal approved

by Governor Murphy, BP and Equinor have followed suit by terminating their contract for an offshore wind project off the Monmouth County coastline citing ‘changed economic circumstances on an industry-wide scale.’

“The promise of benefits and jobs was always over-hyped and predicated on the backs of ratepayers. Now that taxpayers and boardrooms are getting an honest look, the projects simply don’t measure up to the hype.

“According to an Equinor press release,

‘the decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.’

“Despite the clear indication that these projects are economically unsustainable and pose serious dangers to our marine environment and national security, President Biden and Governor Murphy have rejected calls for objective studies, doubled down and insisted that these projects must continue - no matter the huge taxpayer subsidies they require and the credible predictions of big increases to ratepayers.

“It’s long past time for Biden and Murphy

to stop recklessly pushing these unsound and improperly vetted projects and trying to prop them up by irresponsibly throwing billions of US taxpayer dollars at these foreign corporations.

“While this terminated contract marks another victory for concerned residents, commercial and recreational fishermen, and the environmentalists who have been working with me to expose the dangers inherent in the massive ocean industrialization of the Jersey Shore, we must continue to fight against Biden and Murphy’s extreme policies and put an end to ocean wind development off our beautiful shore.

Enough is enough.”

Students Must Complete Financial Aid Applications To Graduate From The Desk Of The

Governor Phil Murphy TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed A1181/S2054 to make the completion of a financial aid application form a prerequisite to graduation for public high school and charter school students i n New Jersey. Begi n ni ng with the 2023-2024 11th grade class, and for two school years thereafter, students and their guardians will be required to complete and submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application, as guided by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA), in order to receive their high school diploma. The information on a student’s financial aid application is used to notify them of any financial aid they are eligible to receive if they pursue a postsecondary education.

The Executive Director of HESAA, in consultation with the Commissioner of Education, will be responsible for providing school districts, charter schools, parents, and students with instructions on how to complete the financial aid applications. This may include webinars, presentations, guidance documents, and

a list of available state and federal resources.

School dist r icts will annually notify students and their parents or guardians of this requirement.

Students and their families may submit a waiver requesting an exemption from this requirement.

“There are many state and federal resources available to graduating high school students to help make a college education more affordable,” said Governor Murphy. “Without filling out important applications, students could un k nowingly be leaving money on the table that could have enabled them to pursue higher education. Ensuring high school students understand their options is paramount to our goal of making a college degree more attainable for New Jersey residents.”

“The student financial aid crisis is growing by the minute and students applying to colleges need all the assistance they can get,” said Senator Robert Singer. “When students receive more money through grants and scholarships, it helps them avoid taking on excessive loans that can take decades to repay. This requirement will help make applying to college less strenuous and ensure that students are more knowledgeable about the financial aid

that is available to them.”

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, our state has taken signif icant steps to make postsecondar y education more affordable for New Jersey s t u d e nt s ,” s a id H ESA A Exe c ut ive Director David J. Socolow. “HESAA is dedicated to helping students access valuable state, federal, and institutional grants and scholarships. Only by completing a financial aid application can students and their families understand the true net costs of options to f ur ther their education and achieve upward social and economic mobility.

As New Jersey joins the growing list of states that require high school seniors to apply for financial aid before graduation, our students will be better able to make well-informed decisions.”

“The introduction of legislation mandating the completion and submission of a financial aid application is a commendable move towards fostering equal opportunities in education,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education. “Recognizing the pivotal role financial aid plays in unlocking the doors to higher education for students, this requirement ensures a streamlined process through the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority. This legislation continues to reinforce our commitment to providing comprehensive support for students and their families.

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I believe this legislation will contribute significantly to bridging the gap in access to higher education and empowering students on their academic journeys.”

HESAA currently assists many students and families in completing the application process and will be expanding the support available to families and school communities upon implementation of this new requirement. High schools are encouraged to enter into a data-sharing agreement with HESAA to receive information about the completion status of each 12th grade student’s financial aid application to more effectively provide individualized reminders and support to those that have not yet filled it out. For more information about the upcoming FAFSA and NJ Alternative Financial A id Ap pl icat ion for NJ D re a me r s , visit: ht t ps://w w w.hesa a.org / Pages/ financialaidhub.aspx.

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The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 7

Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements

New Year, New Career: Fast-Track Job Training At OCC TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College’s Workforce and Professional Education (WPE) is offering a series of courses and training programs this spring designed for Ocean County residents who are looking for new career opportunities. Participants can get the skills and knowledge they need to succeed and earn valuable industry credentials in as little as three to six months.

OCC’s professional education courses and certificate programs prepare students for jobs in a number of fast-growing, high-demand fields, including: Veterinary Assistant Medical Billing and Coding EKG Technician Google IT Support Cisco Certified Network Administrator

CompTIA Certified Professional “Whether students are looking to expand their skills in their current field or discover an entirely new career, they have many options at Ocean County College,” said Dr. Joseph Konopka, OCC’s Vice President of Workforce and Professional Education.

“Our fast-track training programs can help students secure immediate employment and industry-valued credentials through handson training by expert instructors.”

Classes for the spring session begin in February and registration is open now. To learn more about Workforce and Professional Education at Ocean County College and to explore the available courses, visit go.ocean.edu/wpe.

Emily Ingram

Business Professional Women Scholarship Application OCEAN COUNTY – Business Professional Women Southern Ocean County 2024 Scholarship Applications are now available to download at bpwsoc.org/scholarships. html. Deadline to apply is April 30 for Education or Equipment.

Qualifications: female applicant must be

25 years or older and a permanent resident in Ocean County. BPWSOC reserves the right to determine if all awarded funds are used for their intended purpose. The determination of awards by the Board of BPWSOC is final. For any questions, contact info@bpwsoc.org.

Groundhog Day Jaunt JACKSON – Celebrate the day with an easy 3.0 mile walk on sand roads through uplands forest. Great hike for family and friends with kids, 10-years old and up.

Come meet on February 2 at 1 p.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495

Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 25 people per hike. Registration is free. Please remember to cancel if unable to attend. Register at eventbrite.com/o/forest-resource-education-center-31858983647.

Pasta Dinner & Night Of Comedy JACKSON – It’s that time of year again for Jackson Fire’s annual Charity Comedy Show and Pasta Dinner where they raise money to help support a local family in need.

The annual Charity Comedy Show and Pasta Dinner will be on April 6 from 6 to 11 p.m. at Station 55 Fire House, 113

Nor th New Prospect Road, Jackson.

Doors open at 6 p.m. for gift auction.

Comedy Show will start at 8 p.m.

If you are interested in tickets, or donating items for the raffles, or food for the event, please reach out to one of the union firefighters!

Ms. New Jersey Senior America Pageant 2024 ATLANTIC CITY – Ms. New Jersey Senior America, Inc., is seeking senior women, age 60 and over, to participate in the Ms. New Jersey Senior America Pageant 2024, to be held at Harrah’s Re-

sort Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, on May 30 at 1 p.m.

For all inquiries, call: 609-412-4980 or 908-216-8534, or visit: newjerseysenioramerica.org.

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

Vice President/COO

Distribution Manager

Jason Allentoff

Laura Hoban

News Editor

Assistant News Editor

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Page 8, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements

Learn About The Jackson Pathfinders

Photo courtesy Jackson Pathfinders

INDIVIDUAL & GROUP COUNSELING Caregivers & Bereavement Groups Available Helping people of all backgrounds to find hope.

For more information on this and other services please contact JFCS at 732-363-0810 or www.jewishoceancounty.org/jfcs

JFCS is a program of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County and made possible thanks to our friends and supporters.

JACKSON – The Jackson Pathfinders are a friendly group of men, women, teens and scouts who love to be out on a trail in the beautiful natural lands of our town. We charge no dues or fees. All we seek from our participants are interest and enthusiasm.

Pathfinders volunteers maintain four woodland trails in Jackson: • The Silver Stream Trail, across from 254 Frank Applegate Road and within the Metedeconk Preserve of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation. The Pathfinders are honored to be designated by NJCF as official guardians of the Silver Stream Trail.

• The Steve Kitay Living Trail, on Jackson Township land, accessed via the Silver Stream Trail.

• The Purple Heart Trail, across from 820 East Veterans Hwy (Routes 527/528) and within the Bunker Hill Bogs Recreation Area of Jackson Township.

• The Jackson Jungle Children’s Trail, within the Jackson Justice Complex. Adjacent to the Jackson Jungle Play Park, it is to the left on your way to the Ocean County Library.

Free and open to the public every day, our Pathfinders trails are for nature appreciation, hiking and mountain biking (no bikes on Children’s Trail). Visit our website for downloadable PDF maps and interactive Google maps of these Pathfinders trails and of several other trails in Jackson, including those at the Forest Resource Education Center.

News of our trails: Less than two weeks ago, 15 unique and beautiful birdhouses were installed high in the trees along three of our trails.

These birdhouses were made by local Cub Scouts and then given to the Pathfinders for placement. Last month they were all artistically painted with original and individual designs by Alexa McCall, daughter of our Pathfinders Chair, Matt McCall. They were then fastened to trees

by Matt and his son, Matt, Jr. Each location was selected carefully to maximize the likelihood of actually being used by birds.

Trail Tips: Whenever you go out on any trail, wear sturdy shoes or boots and bring drinking water. Bring a trash bag with you in case you find something discarded on the trail. There is always a trip-and-fall risk, so have a friend walk with you. Never go out alone.

More about the Jackson Pathfinders: Our volunteers trim branches and briars, clear fallen trees, install trail markers and signs, maintain boardwalks and bridges - and much more. We love the beauty of nature and do everything we can to pass that love along to others. The Pathfinders are supported by Jackson’s Town Council, Public Works Department, Recreation Department and Environmental Commission. We serve as the local advocacy group for New Jersey’s Forest Resource Education Center, and we gladly partner with Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts on their own special projects.

The beauty of Jackson’s natural lands calls to us. Out on the trail we experience the refreshing scent of the forest, the clean and awesome streams and the freedom from crowds and traffic. The Jackson Pathfinders look forward to sharing with you our love for nature and for the trails which lead us there!

www.jewishoceancounty.org Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 10

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The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 9

Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements

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Photo courtesy Calling All Cats JACKSON – Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic.

People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Jason is so sweet and loves to cuddle all the time. He also loves to get loved on by all his siblings and foster friends as well. Jason is up to date on all medical and ready to find

his forever family.

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then find homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages.

While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfinder.com.

New Assistant Superintendent Will Join Jackson JACKSON – The district is pleased to announce that Dr. Laura Godlesky will be joining the Jackson School District in March as Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Godlesky was hired December 13 after the promotion of former Assistant Superintendent Dan Baginski to District Business Administrator.

Dr. Godlesky will join the Jackson Township School District with nearly 30 years of educational experience. She began her career as a middle school English teacher and entered administration as a Supervisor of English and World Language for the Keyport Public Schools. She then became the Director of Curriculum (PreK-12th) for the same district and served as their Director of PreK and ESL. Currently, Dr. Godlesky is the Chief School Administrator for the Oceanport School District. She is passionate about strong and evolving pedagogy and fostering teacher

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leadership to provide the best educational outcomes for students. She said she is incredibly excited to be joining the district, where she can continue to grow her leadership as well as implement many aspects of her skillset.

“Throughout the interview process, I was impressed by the energy and passion that the administrative team expressed when speaking about the Jackson Schools as well as the collaborative nature I observed,’’ Godlesky said.

“I very much look forward to working together towards the goals and mission of the District.”

Dr. Godlesky said school districts have faced many challenges over the past few years, and continue to today.

“As an instructional leader, I believe that the focus of all decision-making must be guided by what is best for children, and how they can best learn and grow,’’ she said. “I am thrilled to join a district that shares this philosophy.”

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Page 10, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

Here’s To Your Health Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

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

Consistently Wearing Hearing Aids May Reduce Your Risk Of Dying

Hearing loss is highly prevalent, affecting well over a billion people worldwide.

In about 25 years, this statistic will double. Many studies have clearly identified hearing loss as a major risk factor for adverse health outcomes including reduced quality of life, depression, dementia, and possibly mortality. Hearing aids are a first line intervention for most individuals with hearing loss. However, the delay in getting “hearing help” can be up to 10 years!

A recent Lancet Study utilized a cross sectional analysis of 9885 adults who participated in the National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey between 1999 and 2012. The association between hearing aid use and risk of mortality was examined among adults with various degrees of hearing loss. Among individuals with hearing loss, the risk of mortality was lower among regular hearing aid users than “never” users of hearing aids.

There are many theories proposed to explain the association between hearing loss and mortality. The first possible explanation involves common pathology

that affects both hearing and comorbidities leading to death, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and dementia.

A second mechanism is the relationship between hearing loss and frailty. Thus, auditory deprivation resulting from hearing loss might negatively affect brain structure.

The bottom line is consistent hearing aid use contributes to improved brain function. Several studies suggest up to a 50% reduction in cognitive decline with consistent hearing aid use. In my opinion, there needs to be additional efforts to improve accessibility and affordability of hearing aids in individuals with lower socioeconomic status.

If you suspect the possibility of HEARING LOSS, don’t be a fool and wait years to get a complete hearing evaluation. Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with honest answers about your hearing health care. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com.

WE Hear YOU & WE are Here for YOU!

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

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Ocean County Special Needs Registry OCEAN COUNTY - The Ocean County Special Needs Registry is a collaborative effort between the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and the Ocean County Police Chiefs Association, available to all citizens with special needs who reside, attend school or are employed in Ocean County.

The goal of the Special Needs Registry is to ensure all Ocean County residents who may be in need of special assistance are able to get the help and support they need in a time of emergency or during interaction with Law Enforcement, Fire or EMS personnel.

For more information or to register please visit: www.OCSNRNJ.com.

Ceramics At Jackson Senior Center

JACKSON – Join on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for ceramics. The instructor is here from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by and check it out! If you would like to register

for ceramics or any of their other wonderful activities, call the Jackson Senior Center at 732-928-2313 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Jackson EMS Seeking Volunteers 214 Commons Way Bld B, Toms River, NJ Stay Connected With Us

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JACKSON – Make a difference in your community! Jackson Township EMS is currently seeking volunteers. No experience needed. Must be 16 years or older. Free first aid training. Learn

skills for life.

Now hiring EMTs. Paid holidays. Healthcare benefits. Competitive pay. Flexible schedule. To apply, visit JTFAS.org.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 11

Here’s To Your Health

Read The JACKSON TIMES on your...

Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

3 Surprising Perks Of Chewing Gum And How It Improves Thinking

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

I may be your favorite pharmacist but I have a silly sense of humor so today we’ll dive into the world of chewing gum, and how it might be helpful for concentration. Weird, I know!

But we all know how easily our wandering minds get the best of us, and this leads to slowed-down productivity.

It doesn’t seem plausible to me that a simple piece of gum might just be an aid for brain power. We will delve into all of this as we discuss the 4 most interesting concentration benefits of chewing gum: 1. It Increases Blood flow. Chewing gum has been found to slightly increase circulation within the brain, at least according to the Parkinson’s Resource Organization where it is stated, “Some studies have reported that chewing gum increases blood flow to the brain by 25-40%.”

So maybe chewing gum can deliver a small but extra dose of oxygen and nutrients! This tiny surge in blood flow can result in improved cognitive performance, enhanced attention span, and increased mental alertness… at least for a few minutes.

Studies suggest that gum chewing can also stimulate the release of dopamine, a brain chemical that plays a significant role in our ability to focus. So, it’s not just a mere act of mastication, it’s a neurologically engaging process that enhances cognitive function.

2. Improves Multitasking. Raise your

hand if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list. I’m with you! Now, I know what you’re thinking because I’m thinking it too. How can gum, which requires some attention to chew, actually improve concentration?

Experts say that chewing gum keeps your jaw busy, and as such it may help you push through tedious tasks with greater ease. It seems to act as a motivator but I’m not exactly sure how.

Perhaps it’s that dopamine!

3. Lowers Salivary Cortisol. Let’s face it, life can get a bit stressful at times. Juggling all the aspects of life can leave one feeling frazzled, especially in this day and age of nonstop information and social media. Chewing gum can lower cortisol levels, at least in the brain. To be fair, not all the study conclusions agree on this subject matter. We do know that cortisol can make one feel anxious. There was an MRI study too. That paper concluded, “… gum chewing relieves stress by attenuating the sensory processing of external stressor and by inhibiting the propagation of stress-related information in the brain stress network.”

Chewing gum for a few minutes to boost concentration might just be the magical tool that helps you get through that pile of mail, write that blog, or build that graphic! So, it’s okay to go ahead, indulge in a stick or two of your favorite gum, I’m not looking or judging anybody.

(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) ©2023 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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Page 12, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

DeGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES DIRECT CREMATION $1875

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DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst

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A mere accusation of Domestic Violence could result in the loss of your guns and your right to purchase more guns.

“When a person claims to be a victim of domestic violence, and where a law enforcement officer responding to the incident finds probable cause to believe that domestic violence has occurred, the law enforcement officer shall arrest the person who is alleged to be the person who subjected the victim to domestic violence... “N.J.S.A. 2C:25-21.

In addition, a law enforcement officer has the right to seize any weapon that is contraband (illegal), evidence, or an instrumentality of crime. A law enforcement officer who has probable cause to believe that an act of domestic violence has been committed shall (a) question persons present to determine whether there are weapons on the premises; and (b) upon observing or learning that a weapon is present on the premises, seize any weapon that the officer reasonably believes would expose the victim to a risk of serious bodily injury. If a law enforcement officer seizes any firearms, then the officer shall also seize any firearm purchaser identification card or permit to purchase a handgun issued to the person accused of domestic violence. These weapons shall then be delivered to the county prosecutor.

N.J.S.A. 2C:25-21.

Thereafter, the Prosecutor’s Office will

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petition the Superior Court, within 45 days of seizure of your firearms, to obtain title to your seized guns, or to revoke any and all permits, licenses and other authorizations for your use, possession, or ownership of such firearms. The Prosecutor’s Office may also object to the return of your firearms because they allege that you are unfit, or you pose a threat to a person or the public.

If, after a hearing, the court determines that the confiscated firearms are not to be returned to you, then court may Order the revocation of your firearms purchaser identification card or any permit, license, or authorization. And if that happens then the court shall order you to surrender any firearm seized as well as all other firearms that you possess. The Prosecutor will then be Ordered by the court to dispose of the firearms if you are unable to arrange for the sale of the firearms to a registered dealer within 60 days.

If you find yourself in this situation, give the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call to discuss your Second Amendment Rights 732-505-1212.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

New Jersey Boater Safety Course BRICK – This class is for the NJ Boater’s License, which will be held on April 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at MarineMax Brick. To attend this class you must RSVP at: bit.ly/3NRsXNd. Boating is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding past times. There is something so empowering about being out on the water. But knowing the rules of the water and how to properly operate and maintain your boat can mean the difference between a great day and a potentially disastrous one.

We want to make sure that people enjoy their boating experiences, whether they are spending an action-packed day out fishing or a lazy day cruising with friends and family. To ensure that our boaters have a fun – but safe – time out on the water, we proudly offer Boat Safety classes at many of our MarineMax locations.

Our Boat Safety classes cover a variety

of important topics, including: • Life vest laws and proper use • How to make an emergency radio call • Proper flare and emergency signal use • Rules of the water and local boating laws • Basic first aid • Much more Being knowledgeable about preparation, as well as how to appropriately react to small hiccups and major emergencies on the water, can make or break your time on your boat. Please take a moment to view our local classes and seminars at your area’s MarineMax to learn more about boat safety and how to have a great time on the water.

Additionally, MarineMax offers Women on Water classes, designed specifically for empowering women to feel comfortable and knowledgeable on the water, and Boating Tips articles for boaters of all experience levels.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 13

Around The Jersey Shore Ocean County Receives Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award

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Photo courtesy Ocean County TOMS RIVER – In response to numerous inquiries from boaters on how to properly dispose of used or outdated marine flares, Ocean County worked to develop a safe and convenient solution.

“It took some time but with a number of our departments working together, led by the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management, we were able to get the proper permits from the state and create a program where we not only collect the flares but also properly and safely incinerate them,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea. “With the two collections in 2023, more than 2,000 flares were dropped off to us and disposed of the right way, reducing any possible damage to the environment.”

The success of the new program also caught the eye of New Jersey environmental officials resulting in the county being awarded the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Environmental Excellence Award in the Sustainable Community Category. Crea, who is liaison to the Department of Solid Waste accepted the award on behalf of Ocean County during a recent ceremony in Trenton.

“This award speaks volumes about the cooperation we have among our county departments, many of which came together to create a program that has real and long-lasting benefits,” she said. “I am very proud of all the county staff that worked on this. This award belongs to all of them.”

With support from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management, the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Ocean County Training Center in Waretown worked together to establish spring and fall collection events for expired boat flares with the drop off taking place at the Training Center.

The program debuted with great success; approximately 2,000 marine flares were collected during last year’s two events. The flares were later incinerated in an onsite burn box under the supervision of the County Fire Marshals.

“With about 25,000 boats registered in Ocean County, this program is essential for a number

of reasons,” Crea said. “It provides proper disposal of these flares and its educational component is raising awareness of the need to have flares on boats, how long the flares are good for, and now an answer to how to properly dispose of them.”

Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Gary Quinn noted many steps were taken to get the program up and running.

Quinn, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Training Center and the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, said a lot of work went into securing the Research, Development, and Demonstration Permit from the DEP. “There was a great deal of research on our part that went into this,” Quinn added. “All that work resulted in a successful program.”

The Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards has been New Jersey’s premier environmental awards program since 2000. Ocean County accepted the award for the new boat flare disposal program at a ceremony held in Trenton on Dec. 18.

“We are honored to be recognized for our efforts in promoting sustainability within our community,” Crea said. “Providing this free program to our boaters gives them the opportunity to safely dispose of old flares and keep them out of the water or landfill.”

Other agencies consulted during the initial planning process of the disposal program included the U.S. Coast Guard, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Jersey State Police, Marine Services Bureau, fire academies in Ocean County including Toms River and Brick Township, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Marine Trades Association of New Jersey, Sea Grant New Jersey, and other coastal communities throughout the United States including Annapolis, Maryland and California.

“This program is the first of its kind in New Jersey,” Crea said. “It is another great opportunity to continue to protect our environment.”

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Page 14, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

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Young Women’s Leadership Summit TOMS RIVER – Hosted by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, the Young Women’s Leadership Summit will be on February 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ocean County College.

Open to all young women in grades 6 to 12, no need to be a Girl Scout to attend!

The Young Women’s Leadership Summit will be filled with incredible opportunities for networking, professional development, and personal growth. Girls will connect with and listen to a diverse range of expert speakers leading workshops and seminars on crucial issues that impact our future changemakers.

Register February 6 for $5 off the $25 ticket price. Included in your ticket purchase will be breakfast, lunch, a customized patch for registered Girl Scouts, ability to network, your own professional headshot, and opportunities to receive swag!

Summit Agenda: 9 a.m. - Registration, Breakfast, Networking, Swag Bags 9:30 a.m. - Welcome and Opening Remarks, Gateway Lecture Hall | Room 104; EMCEE – Girl Scout | Opening Remarks – Heather Coburn, CEO 10 a.m. - Keynote Speaker – Kelly Servodio, Development Associate, Community Medical Center 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. - Morning Panel Session, Gateway Lecture Hall | Room 104 11:30 a.m. - Breakout Sessions 12:15 p.m. - Lunch, Headshots, Networking 1 to 1:45 p.m. - Afternoon Panel Sessions, Gateway Lecture Hall | Room 104 2 p.m. - Closing Remarks For more information, visit gsFun.org/ leadership.

Second Annual 5K & 1K Walk/Run TOMS RIVER – Just Believe Inc. is hosting their second annual 5K & 1K Walk/Run on May 11 at Winding River Park Toms River.

Just Believe helps our homeless and disenfranchised communities in the Ocean County area. Race start time will begin at 8 a.m. Packet pick up May 10 from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. at 734 Route 37 W, Suite #5, Toms River. Packet pick up is also available race day at race site.

Register by April 15 at raceforum.com/ believe or call 732-569-0643. Cost is $30 for the 5K run/walk; $20 for the 1K run/ walk. Registration fees include park and mission hydration stations on course, race, refreshments and award ceremony.

Fun & Games Page 22

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 15

Bright Harbor Foundation Art & Soul Brunch TOMS RIVER – The event will showcase the tremendous talent Bright Harbor Healthcare has discovered from individuals suffering with mental illness. This is an opportunity to eliminate barriers and misconceptions surrounding mental health, encourage positive conversations to reduce stigma, and shed light

on the changing climate of mental health treatment in New Jersey. The exhibit will contain paintings, drawings, mixed media, and several forms of creative expression including: poetry, music, dance and more provided by children and adults seeking services at Bright Harbor.

Bright Harbor Foundation Art & Soul Brunch is hosted through the month of February at the Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts Gallery at Ocean County College, Toms River. For more information, visit brightharbor.org/bright-harbor-foundation-art-soul.

Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 16, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

Around The Jersey Shore Expert Hunters: The Spotted Hyena

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator Often misunderstood, while the spotted hyena does scavenge, they catch about 95 percent of their food. They are considered the most successful large predator in Africa. Their bodies are built for endurance with powerful shoulders and front legs. They are capable of chasing their prey to the point of exhaustion.

Spotted hyenas will hunt in packs, enabling them to bring down large prey like zebra, giraffe, and even the African Cape buffalo.

They have powerful jaws with teeth so strong they can split open the bones of rhino. A large head and a long, muscular neck contributes to their amazing ability to bring down and consume prey quickly. A pack of spotted hyenas are formidable threats to other predators, including lions. The female hyena is approximately 10 percent larger than the male, with a behavior that is more aggressive.

Believe it or not, the spotted hyena is more closely related to cats. While their dog-like appearance makes them look like dogs, their closest relatives are mongooses and civets.

Their complex social system consists of female-dominated clans where the social rank

of a female is determined solely by the social status of its mother. This affords females at the top of the social ladder priority access to food. Communication consists of whoops, groans, growls, and submissive giggles.

Clans are typically very large with many individuals defending the large home ranges which can be up to 40 square miles. Marking their territory with urine and feces, clashes between clans over their territory can occur.

Males always enter a clan at the bottom of the hierarchy which is below the lowest females. It is only through making alliances with females, can males mate, where the higher-ranking females will choose males who have been in the clan the longest. Mating all year long, litters consist of one to four young with twins being the most common.

The information for this article was gathered from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/or federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which includes harm inflicted upon any animal, wild or domestic, is punishable by law.

Jackson Senior Center Events JACKSON – The Jackson Senior Center is offering the following events: Start the year off right! Join them Mondays at 9 a.m. for workout and at 10 a.m. for Forever Young.

Crochet/knit group meets every Tuesday at 11 a.m. Skilled crocheters and knitters are available for advise, group projects and of course friendship.

Come and play Mahjong on Mondays at 11

a.m. and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. Beginners welcome.

Join them Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for ceramics. The instructor is here from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. stop by and check it out!

For more information or to register for the events the Jackson Senior Center 732-9282313, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 17

Spotlight On Business

Health Village Imaging In Manahawkin, Jackson, Wall & Little Egg Harbor

Closer to Home. Focused on You. NOW OFFERING 3D Screening & Diagnostic MAMMOGRAPHY at Wall Circle Park!

Health Village Imaging prides itself on our experience, compassionate care, and convenient medical imaging. We offer advanced imaging technology in a facility designed with patient comfort and convenience in mind.

Our distinguished staff of board-certified radiologists have over 40 years of experience helping patients and doctors, and they will ensure you will receive the highest quality imaging services available. Patients and physicians trust HVI because we provide accurate results promptly and exceptional care for every patient.

Screenings offered are CT Calcium Scoring, Low-Dose Lung Cancer Screening, Mammography, and Prostate Cancer Screening.

Exams include High Field Open MRI, CT, Ultrasound, Diagnostic X-ray, Bone Density Testing, Fluoroscopy, and MR/

CT Angiography.

Our comprehensive Women’s Imaging Centers in Manahawkin and Jackson provide 3D Mammograms, ABVS (Automated Breast Volume Scan), Bilateral Breast MRI, Breast Ultrasound, and Breast Biopsy.

Having all of this technology under one roof allows us to tailor testing and service to our patient’s needs, in however many exams are needed.

HVI provides high-resolution imaging, detailed analysis, and prompt results from our dedicated staff of radiologists and technologists.

Early detection saves lives. Request your appointment today! www.myhvi.com.

Manahawkin: 609-660-9729, 1301 Rt. 72 W, Suites 100 & 220.

Jackson: 732-497-1200, 27 S. Cooks Bridge Rd., Suite 1-6.

Little Egg Harbor: 609-660-9729, 279 Mathistown Rd. Wall Circle Park: 732-974-8060, 1975 HWY 34 S, Bldg. D, Wall Twp. www.healthvillageimaging.com

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Winter Fire And Ice Festival To Be Held NEW EGYPT - New Egypt Flea Market Village announces Winter Fire And Ice Festival on February 3, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and February 4, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The rain dates are Feb10 and 11. The festival will be held at 933 Monmouth Rd., Cream Ridge.

Admission is $5 per person and kids under

10 are free The event will have ice sculptures and demonstrations, animal exhibits, handmade makers, music, fire pits, photo ops, food trucks and more.

For more information, visit newegyptfleamarket.com.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 18, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

Attorney General Appoints New Chief Of Securities Bureau NEW JERSEY – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has appointed Elizabeth M. Harris to serve as Chief of the Bureau of Securities (“Bureau”), effective today. The Bureau, which operates within the Division of Consumer Affairs, is charged with protecting investors from investment fraud and with regulating the securities industry in New Jersey.

“The New Jersey Bureau of Securities acts as a critical first-line of defense against investor fraud and a watchdog over the state’s financial markets.” said Attorney General Platkin.

“Elizabeth Harris is an accomplished attorney whose legal experience, financial acumen, and sound judgement make her an excellent fit to lead the Bureau in carrying out its important work. I am looking forward to working with her to continue protecting New Jersey consumers and investors.”

To execute its mission, the Bureau collaborates with agencies across the country and

around the globe to bring investigative and enforcement actions against firms or individuals who violate the New Jersey Uniform Securities Law and Regulations. Adhering to the philosophy that investor protection begins with prevention, the Bureau also regulates and closely monitors the firms and individuals that sell securities or provide investment advice to New Jersey residents to ensure compliance.

Through its educational programs, the Bureau helps New Jersey residents become informed investors and empowers them to be strong advocates in protecting their investments.

“Protecting the financial interests of New Jersey investors is an important component of New Jersey’s robust consumer protection efforts,” said Cari Fais, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “Elizabeth’s professional experience as a federal prosecutor as well as her work within the regulated financial industry provide her with a breadth

of knowledge that will prove invaluable to the Bureau and New Jersey investors.”

“The New Jersey Bureau of Securities is a national model for securities regulation and I am honored to be entrusted with a leadership role in pursuing its mission,” said Harris. “I look forward to working with the dedicated professionals at the Bureau on new opportunities for investor protections.”

Harris, a New Jersey native, most recently served as a vice president in the public finance banking department at Morgan Stanley, where she was involved in all aspects of debt financing, including public bond offerings, direct purchases, private placements, and lending. Her legal career also includes stints as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, General Counsel to the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation, and as an associate at K&L Gates LLP in New York, NY and Newark, NJ,

where she represented clients in commercial litigation, white-collar criminal defense, and securities litigation.

Harris holds a B.A. from Fordham University, an M.A. from Columbia University, Teachers College, and a J.D. from Rutgers University School of Law. Attorney General Platkin recognizes Amy G. Kopleton for her exemplary service as Acting Bureau Chief for the past two years and for her continued commitment to the mission of the Bureau in partnership with Bureau Chief Harris. Amy will return to her former position with the Bureau as Deputy Chief.

“Under Amy’s leadership, New Jersey continued to serve as a national leader in investor protection, especially in the fast-evolving area of digital markets,” said Attorney General Platkin. “I thank Amy for her hard work and dedicated service to the Bureau and to New Jersey investors.”

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GREAT RATES FOR BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADS! NUMEROUS DISCOUNT PACKAGES AVAILABLE! FOR DETAILS, CALL 732-657-7344 TODAY! Please Check Your Ad The First Week It’s Scheduled To Run For Insertion & Accuracy.

Micromedia will not be responsible for errors occurring in an ad beyond the f irst week if we are not notif ied of the error.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 19

CLASSIFIEDS Items Wanted COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/ estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n) $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid.

Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Reggae, Blues, Jazz. Also buying Comic Books . Call Rick 908-616-7104. (t/n) CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (44) 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) Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n) U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l types: collectibles, military, etc.

Call 917-681-6809. (t/n) CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n) I Buy Records - 33/45. Cash paid.

Call Eddie first! 732-829-5908 anytime. Travel to you fast deals!

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Help Wanted R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n) Quality Assurance Manager sought by Renaissance Lakewood LLC in Lakewood, NJ. Responsible for the overall performance of Quality Assurance inspection group dealing w/ deviations, change controls, complaints, Standard Operating Procedures, forms, & logbooks, per cGMP & co. standards. Daily mgmt of activities rltd to incoming inspections, CAPA & deviations (batch records, specs, QIS, etc.). Prep monthly & quarterly quality metric presentations. Support of all mfg activities such as meetings, & adherence to sched changes. Reqs: Bach deg in Pharmaceutical Sci, Pharmaceutical Mfg, or closely rltd field, + 3 yrs exp in the job offd or rltd role in pharmaceutical industry. Forward resume to: Heather Colianni, Sr. Manager, Human Resources Business Partner, Renaissance Lakewood, LLC, 1200 Paco Way, Lakewood, NJ 08701 or to Heather.Colianni@renpharm.com (7)

Help Wanted Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits.

Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company.

E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n) Experienced Receptionist Needed - for a busy veterinary hospital, bilingual spanish speaker, Team worker, has phone and good communication skills. 732-577-0066. (10) Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus. Filing/Answering Phones/ Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m.

- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n) Bus Driver NEEDED! - Flexible Scheduling. Perfect for Retiree in Retirement Community. CDL w/ Passenger endorsement required. Call SilverWoods Clubhouse for more information at 732-341-4825. (t/n) Certified Home Health Aides - Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n) Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

Services 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) THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@ exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n) CHEAP PAINTING Done RITE Free est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n) Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477. (t/n) APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322.

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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. (t/n) Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n) Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42) MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home maintenance needs. $ave.

Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800.

(10) Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n) 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) Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information.

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

Call Jim 732-674-3346.

(39) Try The Marsh S&P500 Daily Prediction System (MSPDPS) Since 2014, 659 APR returned.

Email for details. Bob Marsh, r.marsh@prodiay.net.

(10) ATCO Painting & Home Improvements - Interior exterior painting. Interior woodwork.

Fully insured. Free estimates Lic#13VHO4548900. 27 years experience. Tommy 609-661-1657. (10) Lisa's Cleaning - Excellent references. I work alone. I have my own supplies. Please call Lisa at 732-581-0409.

(7) 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. 848-224-0516. email woolnoughkris@gmail.com. (t/n)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry window cleaning, carpet cleaning. Very good prices. 732773-5078, 848-287-3944.

(5)

DIRECTV Sports Pack - 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)

Painting - Special Fall Pricing.

Interior/Exterior. Meticulous work.

All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060.

(47)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICES Over 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements.

Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267-475-7962.

(50)

Services

Services

Services

LANDSCAPING - 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 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000.

NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920.

Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-791-2033 or visit dorranceinfo.com/micro. (t/n)

Handyman Solutions. All Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry •Doors •Windows •Bathrooms •Kitchen •Tile •Flooring •Decks •Vinyl Railings •Masonry •Drywall •Painting •Electric •Plumbing •More. Licensed.

Insured. Emergency Service Available. 609-384-9030.

(3)

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

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within 2. Print ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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

Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

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

Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.

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

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

Credit Card#

Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

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

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

Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER

(THIS IS REQUIRED)

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) If you have any questions, please call Ali at 732-657-7344, ext. 203.

Page 20, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

jerseyshoreonline.com

Photo Of The Week

The Jersey Shore got a nice winter surprise with the first snow in 700+ days. Mila and Jack from Brick took full advantage of the “no school” call, building their first snowman! The pic was submitted by their proud grandma. Want to see your pix in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may be hearing from us!

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 21

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Peruvian people who cultivated potato varietals 5 Channel that covers Capitol Hill 10 Puzzle that may have dead ends 14 More than a snack 15 Words to live by 16 Emotional request 17 Spring flower painted by van Gogh 19 Feminine pronoun 20 Like one’s back during cat pose 21 Throw shade at 23 Finger food at luaus 24 “Mossy, bossy” Seuss character 25 A-plus student 28 Amtrak sta. times 29 Slot in a cash drawer 30 Twisted humor 31 Female sib 32 “East of Eden” di-

rector Kazan 33 Docent’s deg.

34 Hard-to-open cap 39 Air gun shot 40 Jazz singer Anita 41 Op. __: footnote abbr.

43 Diet based on the eating habits of early humans 46 Business attire 47 Mexican coin 48 Coffee order similar to a latte 50 Not quite foggy 51 Post-op area 52 __ card: smartphone need 53 Lively dances 54 Novelist __ Neale Hurston 56 Scold harshly 59 Like 8 or 88 60 Gabrielle of “Being Mary Jane” 61 Filmmaker Preminger 62 Depend (on) 63 Trivial, as a complaint 64 Cry

Down 1 Sticks a stake in, as a vampire 2 Overly anxious 3 Dramatic end of a cinematic chase scene 4 Socially dominant figures 5 Kept in the email loop 6 __ Lanka 7 A pop 8 Athletic brand with a three-stripe logo 9 Deferential denial 10 Dashboard abbr.

11 Pepper named for a Syrian city 12 Focus (on) 13 With very little effort 18 Luthor of the comics 22 Looking swell 25 Short cut?

26 Save, as a newspaper article 27 Eurasia’s __ Mountains 29 Alero automaker,

informally 32 Macaroni often used in cold salads 33 Zoo trench 35 “Yeah, sure” 36 Dog that licks Garfield 37 Enjoy the lake in winter, perhaps 38 Aversion 42 Place to buy gifts for kids 43 Vaccine manufacturer 44 Tucked-away recess 45 Bay leaf source 46 Gymnast Biles who won four gold medals in Rio 47 Cushion 49 Ask for a donation 50 “Calvin and Hobbes” bully 53 Measly 55 “__ takers?”

57 Trivial complaint 58 Received

(c)2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SU DOK U

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble: EXERT UNIFY SPRUCE OVERDO - PROCURE ONE

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024, Page 23

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF JAN 27 - FEB 2

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): Exciting ideas may call for immediate action, but it may be wise to wait to take initial steps. A loved one or partner may change their mind, or you might need to take important new discoveries into account.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Stimulating people could open the world of imagination for you. You can make some dynamic changes if you are well prepared. Take care of family or other obligations before you move ahead with imaginative plans.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Money and business projects may not be the most important things in your life, although they may be pretty influential. Listen to someone’s original ideas and take their needs and desires into consideration.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Keep a careful watch on your wallet. Implementing a small saving plan today can mean that you could reach your goals faster. You could receive a lucky break this week that positively changes your financial outlook.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The strongest start may need to come from a diving board where you can get some extra air. A powerful start can lead to a powerful finish.

Find a spot where you can get some real bounce and put your best plans into motion.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Keep your schedule on track. Steady control is needed to maintain the high-quality performance standards you have established.

This can give you time to develop imaginative ideas and review upcoming changes.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A dependable and trustworthy nature can make you a candidate to be taken into someone’s confidence. Listen to whatever someone offers to share but avoid probing too deeply into their private affairs.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The person you are looking for is out there but they may be going through issues of their own now. Take some time to work on yourself and uplevel your own energy you’ll be ready when you do eventually meet.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Optimism is usually a good characteristic, but you might be searching for something that is beyond reach. Paying attention will give you a chance to spot and avoid any snares encroaching upon your path.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Exciting and imaginative ideas can spark your creative juices. Gather ideas and organize your plans and when the time is right you can be able to hit your goals and make your dreams come true.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your investment plans may need to brew a little longer. Hang on to your money for now, the profits you expect might be delayed and Brilliant tips could turn out to be a trap.

Your time to make the leap is still ahead.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): To win the approval of your peer group you may be limited in what you can say and do. Maintain a low profile because someone might be determined to misinterpret your actions, or your judgment could be off center.

(c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

COOKING UP CHICKEN THIGHS? TAKE THIS DISH TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH A SCRUMPTIOUS SAUCE

By America’s Test Kitchen

ORANGE-ROSEMARY CHICKEN THIGHS WITH BRUSSELS SPROUTS Serves 4

8 (5- to 7-ounce) bone-in chicken thighs, trimmed 1 3/4 teaspoons table salt, divided 1 1/4 teaspoons pepper, divided 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 shallot, minced 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary, divided 2/3 cup chicken broth 3/4 teaspoon grated orange zest plus 1/3 cup juice 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

1. Adjust oven rack to lowest position and heat oven to 475 degrees. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Place chicken skin side down in a cold 12-inch nonstick skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until skin is deep golden brown, 7 to 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, toss Brussels sprouts, oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper together on a rimmed baking sheet and arrange on two-thirds of sheet. Transfer chicken, skin side up, to empty third of sheet and roast until chicken registers at least 175 degrees, 20 to 25 minutes.

3. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons fat from skillet.

Add shallot, 1 teaspoon rosemary, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and cook over medium-high heat until softened, about 1 minute. Add broth, orange zest and juice, honey, and vinegar and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Off heat, return chicken to skillet, turning to coat. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 teaspoon rosemary. Serve.

(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) 2024 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Page 24, The Jackson Times, January 27, 2024

jerseyshoreonline.com