2024-02-24 - The Toms River Times

TheTOMS RIVER Times Vol. 19 - No. 42

In This Week’s Edition

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February 24, 2024

Could Recall Of Police Ordinance Be Derailed?

BREAKING NEWS @

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Government Page 7

Community News Pages 9-15

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 16

Inside The Law Page 18

Photos by Bob Vosseller (Above) Concerned residents came out to the meeting.

(Right) Police Chief Mitch Little was not allowed to speak before the vote.

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – Mayor Dan Rodrick’s meeting on Valentine’s Day revealed ver y lit tle love shared during the occasion held in Town Hall.

The meeting that began at 2 p.m. had a lengthy public hearing period featuring more than 20 people who came before the microphone calling for a controversial

Image courtesy TR FOP and PBA This chart shows what the command structure will be after the cuts. ordinance involving police staffing to be tabled and reconsidered.

The police personnel ordinance deletes two captain positions; the people in these jobs are retiring this year. Rodrick said that the $700,000 saved from those two positions would fund a year-round ambulance over the bridge in the beach areas of town.

Sacrifice Of The Four Chaplains Commemorated In Manchester

By Mark Bator MANCHESTER - On a near-perfect winter day, the annual ceremony commemorating the Four Chaplains was held at the historic Cathedral of the Air. With the assistance of American Legion Post 129 in Toms River, the Cathedral of the Air Committee held their annual commemora-

tive event, honoring the four Army chaplains of various faiths who selflessly assisted their fellow servicemen in the early morning hours of February 3, 1943.

The story was recounted by the National Director of the Four Chaplains Foundation, William Kaemmer, who gave the memorial address to the crowd in attendance.

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Setting sail from New York on January 23, 1943, the S.S. Dorchester with 902 servicemen, merchant seamen, and civilians onboard, was passing the coast of Newfoundland at about 12:55 a.m. when it encountered a German submarine patrolling the North Atlantic.

(Four ChaplainsSee Page 5)

The vote went as expected with Council President Craig Coleman, Cou ncil Vice President Lynn O’Toole, Councilman Justin Lamb, a Lavallette police officer, Councilman George Lobman and Councilman Thomas Nivison voting yes.

Councilman Jim Quinlisk voted, “hell no” and Councilman David Ciccozzi also (Meeting - See Page 4)

By Chris Lundy and Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – A group of residents trying to recall a controversial police staffing ordinance might be stymied if the mayor is able to make the staffing change without an ordinance.

The ordinance in question changed the number of upper administration positions in the Toms River Police Department. Two captains

are retiring. The current plan is that those positions will not be refilled. Mayor Daniel Rodrick said that the two salaries and benefits cost a total of about $700,000, and that money could be better spent dedicating a much-needed ambulance to the barrier island 24/7, 365 days a year.

The ordinance was heard on February 14 and it did (Ordinance- See Page 4)

This Month In History: How And When To Hold Meetings

By J. Mark Mutter With the recent controversy in our town about public meetings - when, where, and how to hold them - here’s a step back in time: the “Annual Town Meeting” in our history.

But first, some background.

The King, A Land Grant, And Local Government New Jersey, as we know, was

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one of the original thirteen British colonies in North America. After the English Civil War and the restoration of the monarchy, K ing Charles II in 1664 granted to his brother, James, the Duke of York, a vast stretch of land on this continent that included what today we know as New Jersey.

That land grant gave James

the authority to create government.

Later, James re-granted the New Jersey lands, also known as “New Caesarea,” to two supporters from the Civil War, Lord Berkeley and Sir George Carteret, as “joint proprietors” and they vested in a colonial “general assembly” the power to create municipalities.

(History - See Page 19)

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The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 3

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Page 4, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

Meeting:

Continued From Page 1

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cast a negative vote for the ordinance. Both stood up at one point stating the meeting had been illegally advertised (referring to how the town placed an ad in newspapers to tell the public about meetings). They called for the meeting to be dismissed but were outvoted.

This meeting served to replace a January 31 Zoom meeting that was plagued with technical problems and an anti-Sematic remark that ended it within a half hour. The publication of the ordinance for the meeting served as an issue of controversy itself as critics of the ordinance have questioned whether the notice was adequate – calling it vague and over simplistic.

“I was totally unaware of the meeting date and only learned about it the same way everybody else did, through an ad in the newspaper,” Quinlisk told Jersey Shore Online.com a week prior to the meeting.

Councilman Lamb disagreed with Quinlisk and Ciccozzi saying, “if the meeting wasn’t advertised how is it that we are all here?”

Some audience members voiced that they were surprised to see that Rodrick showed up for the meeting, since he has a day job as a teacher. He faced a loud backlash at times when he attempted to respond to some speakers, from attendees, many of whom sported blue “Support the Toms River Police” T-shirts.

Those who came up to the microphone for public comment on the ordinance were critical of the mayor and the council members who voted for the ordinance saying the measure was not well researched and other alternatives could be used, such as grants.

“Take a look at the passion in this room.

Take a look at the people in this room and think about the solutions that have already been brought to you,” Jillian Messina noted stating that she found 2,000 grants available for community policing in one internet search.

Messina was the police department’s former information officer. She presented several charts explaining what the captains and other supervisors do prior to the vote.

Ordinance:

Continued From Page 1 pass, leading to questions about whether it was necessary to begin with.

Residents who have banded together on Facebook called “Toms River Residents for Transparency” have begun a recall effort of the ordinance. They scheduled a press conference an hour before the February 14 meeting.

Should their effort prove successful, it could rescind the ordinance or call for a referendum to be placed on the ballot in November. Their objective is to gain the signatures of 5,000 township residents.

“We need 15% of the total number who voted in November 2023; so about 20,000

After the vote she reclaimed them noting she wanted to show them to people who would actually read them.

Later in the meeting, her father Joseph Nardini, a board of education member, criticized Rodrick for disparaging him and his running mates during a Board of Education election.

Nardini claimed Rodrick had promised to make his daughter his first firing when he took office. Nardini said “In my opinion, this man is not of sound mind. He’s a sociopath. A vindictive sociopath. Don’t be sheep. He’s going to lead you to slaughter.

He’s going to hurt this town.”

Messina’s job was taken over by Phil Stilton, who is associated with Shore News Network, a controversial media site. He makes $89,000 a year plus benefits as public information officer for the township administration as well as the police department.

Resident Paul C. Williams, who ran unsuccessfully for council last year, took offense to the mayor interjecting comments early in the meeting and spoke from the audience.

Coleman had a police officer remove him from the meeting as a result, saying he was being disruptive.

Police Chief Mitch Little tried to speak before the vote was taken and came up from the audience. However, he was told he would have to wait until later in the meeting.

A 90-minute limit was placed on the public comment period for each of the ordinances that were on the agenda and the police staffing ordinance’s time had elapsed. He never was given the option to speak to the governing body before the vote took place.

Many residents were heard from the audience voicing their disgust at what they were witnessing and the verbal sparring between members of the governing body, members of the council and Rodrick, and members of council with the public.

One resident remarked, “I am totally opposed to this bashing of the prior administration during each meeting. I don’t want to hear that. This is a new day, a new year, a new month and that is not helpful at all to hear that.”

Another resident asked angrily if anyone on the dais outside the two councilmen who voted against the ordinance, “have any integrity at all?”

voted so that would mean about 3,000 signatures, but we want 5,000 to show the Council and Mayor the public does not support,” said Phillip Brilliant, one of the people leading the opposition. “(If the ordinance is approved,) we have 20 days to collect these signatures and currently we have thousands done.”

However, this petition might not have any enforcement behind it.

In a recent Asbury Park Press article, Rodrick said he rescinded promotions in the township’s police department and ordered Chief Mitch Little to make a new table of organization that reflects the current staffing level of one captain and one deputy chief.

According to the mayor, this would eliminate the need for the police department’s (Ordinance - See Page 5)

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Ordinance:

Continued From Page 4 staffing to be addressed through the controversial ordinance.

He added that while the governing body was originally advised that an ordinance was required to change the number of captains, that this was not correct.

“The efforts of a small group of opposition is just political theater,” Rodrick said. He

Four Chaplains: Continued From Page 1

Converted into an Army transport carrier, the 5,649-ton vessel was targeted by submarine U223, which torpedoed the ship as it ferried soldiers bound for service in the European Theater. The transport vessel quickly began to take on water and would, in less than 30 minutes, sink below the icy waves of the North Atlantic.

As the ship began to sink, the four chaplains of different religions, Lt. George L. Fox (a Methodist reverend), Lt. Alexander D. Goode (a rabbi), Lt. Clark V. Poling (a Baptist reverend) and Lt. John P. Washington (a Catholic priest) worked to calm the soldiers and help facilitate an orderly evacuation. While the deckhands attempted to pass out life vests to all the men onboard, the supply ran out before each man had received one.

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 5 has repeatedly said that these are people who supported former mayor Maurice Hill in last year’s election, and are still just fighting any efforts he takes to make changes.

Brilliant said there’s no such thing as an executive order from the mayor to change the township code. Only the Township Council can change codes. If he tries to strongarm it through, that could end up in lawsuits and grievances.

They expressed the view that Rodrick has been making decisions based on inaccurate

information since taking office, lacking transparency and the public’s concern for their health and safety. They also accused Rodrick of trying to silence the voices of the public through initiating Zoom format meetings and setting live meetings at unusual times.

During the meeting, Brilliant was one of the people removed from the room during his second turn speaking before the council.

A joint press release from the Fraternal Order of Police and the Policemen’s Benev-

olent Association urged people to sign the petition. “Our goal is to continue the level of high quality policing our community not only deserves, but has come to rely on,” they said. “There has been a lot of misinformation circulating regarding the controversial decision by the new council members. The Toms River FOP and PBA are committed to ensuring our residents have facts without prejudice.”

More information on where to find the petition can be found at tomsriverpba137.org/

It was at this point that the four chaplains offered up their own life vests to the other servicemen and then looked to help as many men as possible into the lifeboats.

“This act is selfless service,” said Kaemmer. “They gave up their life jackets to save others. And again, think about this.

People died in the war all the time. These guys voluntarily gave up their only chance for survival.”

When they could do no more to assist physically, the four then linked arms and looked to console any remaining crew members by leading communal prayers and singing hymns. The four men went down with the ship and were posthumously awarded both the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart on December 19, 1944.

Each of the chaplains were nominated to receive the Medal of Honor, but were declared ineligible as they had not engaged in combat with enemy forces. Subsequently,

the Four Chaplains’ Medal was created by the United States Congress on July 14, 1960, and were presented posthumously to the next of kin of each of the four chaplains on January 18, 1961.

Twenty-seven years later, Congress established February 3 as Four Chaplains Day. This day is often marked with official proclamations, commemorative events and many municipalities will even fly flags at half-mast.

During the ceremony, American Legion member Berley Hanna, Jr. was presented the Legion of Honor of the Chapel of the Four Chaplains award. The award, which is presented annually, is essentially a humanitarian award given to individuals who have demonstrated acts of selfless service to the community at large.

“It was a body of work,” said Past Department Commander Roger Gengaro of the American Legion. Gengaro, who spoke

at the service, was the individual who had nominated Hanna for the award. “It wasn’t just [this] year. I’ve known him for quite some time and I’ve served with him on many different committees and programs.

I feel like he was a person that was eligible for the Legion of Honor Award not only for what he did, but the way he goes about doing it. He’s a genuine person and to me, that’s important.”

After receiving the award, Hanna was joined by past award winners, who received a standing ovation from those who had attended the service.

“It doesn’t have to do with military service,” said American Legion chaplain Michael Schaffer, who led the service and acted as its moderator. “It has to do with the fact that you have a concern about your fellow man, and you’ve gone above and beyond the necessary to make sure that

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The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 7

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

Assembly Reps: Proposed Affordable Housing Changes Make Bad Policy Worse TRENTON – It could be called the Unaffordable State. New Jersey’s high taxes and overregulation push millions of New Jersey residents to the brink already.

Now, the proposed fix to New Jersey’s affordable housing law will make a bad problem worse, especially for suburban taxpayers, Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and Paul Kanitra say.

The Democrat-sponsored bill (A4), which passed along party lines, continued the government interference and bloat in New Jersey’s housing crisis. Although hailed by supporters as a much-needed overhaul that promises to abolish the Council on Affordable Housing and provide municipalities with immunity from builders’ remedy lawsuits, it will instead continue to drive up housing

costs and property taxes as suburban and rural communities struggle to pay for infrastructure and services while still leaving municipalities vulnerable to lawsuits and fines.

“We can’t just talk about building housing. This bill offers no plan to address all the important public policy issues that come with it: transportation, water quality, jobs, schools,” McGuckin (R-Ocean) said. “We should chuck the entire system and address the infrastructure needs first before we just allow the builders to build more. This is why I oppose every effort the state has tried to so far. The state should come up with a comprehensive plan.”

Assemblyman Paul Kanitra opposed the bill overhauling the affordable housing

system and increasing municipal obligations for the next decade when it came to the Assembly floor for a vote. The bill (A4) changing the affordable housing rules passed 51 to 28 along party lines.

If passed, the legislation would replace COAH with a different $16 million bureaucracy, this one called the Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program, overseen by the Department of Community Affairs. Affordable housing unit obligations could cost suburban taxpayers more than $65 billion over 10 years.

Republicans also argued the bill fails to take into account the geographic diversity that makes New Jersey unique among the 50 states while also ignoring the real needs of residents: building affordable housing where jobs and resources are

plentiful. Rather than playing to these strengths, the legislation would diminish them.

“We need to help more people in New Jersey without jamming more development down every community’s throat.

This bill doesn’t differentiate between a one-square-mile town and a 50-squaremile town,” Kanitra (R-Ocean) added.

“We’re overburdened with insanely high property taxes, and are consistently sticking residents with the highest property taxes in the country that checks aren’t keeping up with. This bill isn’t doing residents any favors and will make the cost of living and property taxes worse without regard to logistical considerations. We need responsible, fact-based solutions to ensure everyone can thrive in New Jersey.”

NJ Allocates $95M From Opioid Recovery And Remediation Fund From The Desk Of The

Governor Phil Murphy TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy announced the allocation of over $95 million from New Jersey’s Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund to support critical programs tackling the opioid crisis, connecting New Jerseyans with tools to reduce overdoses and other harms of substance use, and supporting the treatment and recovery of residents st r uggling with substance use disorders. At the recommendation of the State’s Opioid Recovery and Remediation Advisory Council and with extensive input from the public, six programs addressing four priority areas – harm reduction, p r e ve n t io n a n d r e c ove r y s u p p o r t , treatment, and housing – have been identified to receive funding over the next two to three years.

“Today we are making a historic investment in life-saving and life-changing programs that will connect those suffering from a substance use disorder with the help they need. By bringing toget her ser v ice prov iders, subject matter exper ts, and those who have experienced f irsthand the impact of the opioid crisis, we have identif ied key programs to maximize the State’s

O p i o i d R e c ove r y a n d Remediation Fund,” said Governor Murphy. “Together, the services being funded will empower families and individuals in New Jersey who have felt the devastating impact of addiction, giving them the resources necessary to support sustained recovery.”

This funding will be invested in initiatives to bolster services and address the needs of those who have been adversely impacted by the opioid crisis: $24 million over two years will expand har m reduction and d r ug user health services at authorized Harm Reduction Centers, and will deploy harm reduct ion supplies t h roug h pa r t ner organizations in high-need areas. This will support startup and expansion by the 32-and-counting Harm Reduction Cent e r sit es aut hor i zed u nde r P.L. 2021, c.396 as implemented in 2023. $17.505 million over three years will expand operations at New Jersey’s 22 Community Peer Recover y Centers, which provide treatment information a nd ot her resou rces i n suppor t ive, substance-free environments. $9.025 million over three years will replace and add mobile units providing Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) services in the community. $19.5 million over three years will scale remote referrals to enable 24/7 connec-

tions to care from vetted treatment providers and harm reduction services. This statewide expansion aims to build upon federal funding that DOH is using to pilot the Medication for Addiction Treatment & Electronic Referrals (MATTERS NJ) platform in four counties. $17 million over three years will bolster the supported housing continuum, including emergency shelter beds for immediate needs, short-term rental subsidies, transitional housing beds, and permanent housing assistance. $8.1 million over three years will expand the New Jersey Keeping Families Together program, which supports parents with opioid use disorder through housing vouchers and rental subsidies, case management, linkage to community services, and therapeutic supports.

The Departments of Human Services, Health, and Children and Families will administer these initiatives. Meanwhile, New Jersey will continue to address new challenges in the opioid response including the emerging threat of fentanyl adulterated or associated with xylazine (FAAX) in the drug supply nationwide.

In 2024, $500,000 will be used to deploy wound care supplies, hygiene kits, and – through authority under P.L.2023, c.224 enacted in January – xylazine testing supplies.

Collectively, this spending builds on the hundreds of millions of state and federal dollars that the Murphy Administration has already invested to reduce harm

and save lives through innovation and evidence-based initiatives across state agencies.

“My office continues to work hard to ensure that the companies that created the opioid crisis are held accountable for the incalculable harm it has done to our residents and our communities,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “No amount of money can undo the suffering caused by this crisis or bring back the lives lost, but I applaud Governor Murphy and the Opioid Recovery and Remediation Advisory Council in choosing to prioritize programs that will reduce harm created by the opioid crisis, increase treatment and recovery services across the state, and build and foster resiliency for those struggling with substance use disorder. This focus will save lives and bring needed resources to communities across New Jersey.”

The Advisory Council, which was established by Executive Order No. 305, and codified by P.L.2023, c.25, is tasked with making recommendations for the Administration’s consideration regarding the prioritization and effective use of the State’s share of the nationwide settlement agreements with several opioid manufacturers and distributors for their contributions to the ongoing opioid epidemic. The State of New Jersey, along with eligible counties and municipalities, will receive over $1 billion in settlement funds over the next two decades. As a result, the Advisory Council is also undertaking longer-term strategic planning.

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Page 8, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY E DITORIAL There’s Enough For Everyone There’s a really sad reaction I’ve seen whenever a group receives aid of some sort. It begins with “What about…”

It doesn’t really matter what the groups are. If addicts are being given medical help, someone will say “What about seniors?” If the poor are given free education, someone will say “What about the middle class?”

If undocumented immigrants are given anything, someone will say “What about me?”

This is a good argument, but it makes me sad, but not just because of the ‘whataboutism’ of it all.

In fact, I agree with them most of the time. If one group is given something for free, why not spread the love? Is one group really more deserving than another?

We produce so much food that we throw it away.

Dumpsters outside of grocery stores and restaurants are full of perfectly good food. There’s so much money that we throw millions of dollars at stupid stuff every year. We’re one of the richest countries on the planet.

There’s enough money to spread around.

So, why doesn’t it?

Choice.

We don’t want to spread

the money around.

If veterans are going hungry, it’s because rich people and politicians don’t want to feed them.

If people are dying because they’re not getting health care, it’s because rich people and politicians don’t want them to have it.

There’s enough to go around. We just have to tell the people in charge what to do with our money. We have to vote for politicians who actually want to help people other than themselves and their families.

There’s also a nefarious issue with this line of questioning. This is politics at its worst. A Republican will

see refugees seeking asylum and say “What about veterans?” A Democrat will see a billion dollars spent on a bomber and say “What about inner city schools?”

The fact is, there’s plenty of money for the veterans, the inner city schools, the poor, the middle class, the immigrants - everybody.

But the politicians would rather see us fighting among ourselves.

They want the conservative voters to righteously protect the veterans. They want the liberal voters to be heartbroken over minority children. That’s what gets people riled up and makes them vote. It’s all spin.

Instead of using the resources we have, and helping everyone, the left and right make us fight each other over who gets funding. It’s a death match arena, and the ending is fixed. No one wins.

Besides, look at it this way, if the Green New Deal ever gets passed, liberals would have one less reason to vote.

Democrats have a motive to let the environment suffer in order to get votes and donations.

Same is true on the other side. If veterans got 100% of everything they needed, then Republicans wouldn’t be able to solicit you for their votes and financial

contributions. Republicans have a motive to let veterans suffer in order to get your votes and donations.

The truth is, we can save the environment and make sure veterans have everything they need and cure the root cause of homelessness and make sure everyone has enough to eat.

But the powers that be would rather we fight among ourselves instead.

Think about that the next time someone says “What about…”

the state?

The Murphy administration has set a target of 11 GW of offshore wind power by 2035, establishing New Jersey as a major U.S. offshore wind industry hub. Now is the time to go big on the next round of New Jersey offshore wind awards. Clean renewable energy promoting innovation and economic development while also supporting family-sustaining union jobs is a win-win for everyone and benefits the entire state.

As Governor Murphy stated in his recent State of the State Address, a key piece of advancing clean energy goals is strengthening organized labor by meaningfully growing New Jersey’s unionized workforce and increasing the number of apprenticeship programs in emerging fields such as clean energy. This goal, highlighted in the Governor’s address, is one that our membership shares with the Governor. IBEW Local 400 has been providing a skilled electrical workforce to both Monmouth and Ocean counties for over a century. Our partnership with Attentive Energy, through the Attentive Energy Two project, will generate opportunities in offshore wind across New

Jersey.

Since being selected by the BPU, the Attentive Energy Two project will help Local 400 expand the reach of its apprenticeship programs, ensuring a diverse and ready workforce, prepared to undertake the complexities of offshore wind projects.

Moreover, Attentive Energy’s partnership fosters Local 400’s collaboration with sister locals throughout the state and will offer critical pre-apprenticeship training to traditionally underrepresented groups in the electrical trades, including members of overburdened communities, women, veterans, differently-abled New Jersey residents, and others.

Real momentum to grow offshore wind capacity is building at different levels of government. Let’s advance this momentum with the next round of offshore wind awards in New Jersey.

Labor unions and offshore wind companies are ready for the demands of complex infrastructure projects to meet clean energy goals while providing well-paid work to New Jerseyans along the way.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Letters To The Editor Our Ocean Deserves Better Climate change impacts require immediate actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, chief among them reducing energy use and waste.

The government, however, is focusing on massive ocean industrialization beginning with offshore wind, transforming the ocean into giant power plants.

This, despite the industry being in economic and technological turmoil as seen in recent media coverage.

Consider the magnitude: millions of acres of ocean habitat filled with thousands of turbines as tall as the Chrysler

building, over 10,000 miles of high voltage cables emitting electromagnetic fields. It is a never-before-seen scale of human industrial invasion and abuse of an ecosystem, which would never be allowed on land.

The ocean deserves protection, after all, it is the planet’s best buffer against climate change.

Alarmingly, New Jersey recently announced it will double its already unreasonable offshore wind commitment, and the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced a plan to move even faster, expediting more offshore wind offshore wind development by releasing their Draft Programmatic Environmental

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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.

Impact Statement on six lease areas impacting over 488,000 acres.

To be clear, Clean Ocean Action (“COA”) is not opposed to the idea of offshore wind (OSW), COA opposes the reckless scope, scale, and speed currently underway due to the lack of robust independent science, transparency, good governance, and due diligence. Our ocean deserves better - a fair pilot project, a cost/benefit analysis, and real public engagement.

Make your voice heard. This is a unique time as the government has opened opportunities for public comments on these projects. To find out more about BOEM’s public and in-person meetings, visit cleanoceanaction.org.

Some say that climate change is the greatest threat to marine life. That may be true, but this massive industrialization of offshore wind will only increase grave stress and harm to an already overburdened ecosystem. In fact, by BOEM’s own admission, “there would be no collective impact on global warming as a result of offshore wind projects.”

In sum, when has industrialization ever benefitted the environment?

Cindy Zipf Executive Director Clean Ocean Action

Union Labor Calls For Offshore Wind Clean, renewable energy not only propels innovation and economic development but also secures family-sustaining union jobs. That is why IBEW Local 400, with nearly a century of experience helping to build New Jersey infrastructure, embraces the transition toward green jobs in offshore wind.

Renewable energy partnerships can ensure opportunities for union labor, provide necessary skills training, set high safety standards, and promote a more diverse workforce. The offshore wind industry is paving the way for significant economic growth, technology innovation, supply chain investments, and good-paying jobs that benefit all New Jersey residents.

Marshaling and manufacturing ports such as the Paulsboro Marine Terminal and the New Jersey Wind Port are poised to become hubs of activity, providing employment for thousands of workers, and creating supply chain opportunities for businesses across the state. How do we advance these opportunities for residents and businesses across

Robert Shimko Business Manager & Financial Secretary, IBEW Local 400

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The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 9

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

Cannabis Firm Gets “High Profile” Opening

By Bob Vosseller LAKEHURST – For months now High Profile, the latest cannabis business in Ocean County, has featured a coming soon sign but it recently had its soft opening.

The site which had been repurposed from a Burger King that went out of business a few years ago, opened its doors last week on Valentine’s Day, February 14.

The shop, the third retail cannabis store in Ocean County, is owned by Michigan-based C3 Industries and will serve adults 21 or older in the store at 145 Route 70 in Lakehurst and through online ordering. There will be drive-through and curbside pick-up services available.

A grand opening celebration is scheduled for 10 a.m. on March 15, and will run through St. Patrick’s Day weekend with product specials, vendor tables and food trucks, according to the firm.

Chief Executive Officer Ankur Rungta said, “we are elated to begin serving the people of Lakehurst as well as communities across Ocean County and Central Jersey.”

He is also the cofounder of C3 Industries.

“We look forward to bringing more consumers across the country High Profile’s exceptional customer service, unique retail experiences and high-quality cannabis products at an accessible price point,” Rungta said.

C3 Industries is a multi-state cannabis firm that provides “premium cannabis experiences for consumers.” High Profile is their 24th dispensary nationwide. New Jersey is the fifth state where the company is operating. High Profile will offer discounts for seniors, veterans, medical card holders and cannabis industry workers, the company added.

High Profile offers a bulk-bundle purchasing options for flower, pre-rolls, edibles, concentrates, vape cartridges, tinctures, topicals and gummies. The company also

offers its High Roller Loyalty member rewards program, with special discounts and perks.

The dispensary staff members are passionate and knowledgeable about cannabis and ready to serve seasoned enthusiasts and first-time consumers, “delivering personalized recommendations, educational insights and a positive shopping experience,” according to company officials.

Additionally, High Profile Lakehurst is offering all High Roller Loyalty members the ability to earn points on every dollar they spend, then cash out whenever they are ready. High Roller members also have the ability to earn 50 free points upon signing up, along with early access to special events and offers, referral perks, double points on Tuesdays and members-only bonus discounts.

Located off Route 70, High Profile Lakehurst is 20 minutes southwest of Lakewood and Brick townships, 15 minutes west of Toms River and Manchester Townships, and only minutes from the Lakehurst Maxfield Field and Lakehurst Historical Museum.

The new dispensary is also conveniently located along the route from Philadelphia to popular New Jersey shore destinations such as Seaside Heights and Island Beach State Park, which are 25 minutes away.

The borough-based shop now joins The Social Leaf Dispensary and Bloc Dispensary as the only retail recreational cannabis shops in Ocean County. The Social Leaf opened last July in South Toms River while Bloc Dispensary based in Waretown, first opened as a medical cannabis dispensary, and was later approved in November to add adult-use recreational cannabis to its product line.

More information about High Profile can be found at their website at highprofilecannabis.com/nj/lakehurst-dispensary.

Four Chaplains:

One of the most striking tributes can be seen immediately upon entering the cathedral, as a stained-glass window commemorates the tragic events of February 3, 1943, and the four chaplains of the Dorchester.

“The sacrifice that those gentlemen made that night was something above and beyond what [most] of the people on the planet would ever do,” said Schaffer. “And not necessarily are they being honored for their heroism; they’re being honored for the commitment that they made when they decided to go into the ministry to serve their brothers. No man can do a greater deed than laying his life down for another.”

Continued From Page 5

people get taken care of, or their situation gets resolved.”

The Cathedral of the Air sits nestled within the pine trees as part of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and was originally conceived as a memorial chapel to those individuals who had lost their lives in aerial service to their country. While its imposing stone exterior carries a sense of grandeur, the interior is solemn, with numerous commemorative plaques adorning its walls.

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Page 10, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

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

Ocean County Resident Celebrates 100th Birthday

­

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

Photos courtesy Cyndee Baumann 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.

www.jewishoceancounty.org

By Alyssa Riccardi TOMS RIVER – Gertrude Baumann, a resident at Hampton Ridge Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, celebrated a remarkable milestone recently. She celebrated her 100th birthday on February 21.

Gertrude Baumann, born on February 21, 1924, grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey, in a home that her father had built.

Gertrude’s daughter, Cyndee, shared her story: “She had a rough life. Her outlet at the time was roller-skating in competitions at Olympic Park back in the day. When she

married my father, they were poor. She had to shovel coal on a catwalk to help, because my father was a superintendent. I was little and I also had a little shovel to help her.

Trying to make money, she also drove a school bus and she put me in the front seat.

It was a tough life… but she loved to dance, loved to party and loved life,” Cyndee said.

“Being born in the house that her father built and struggling through life, but trying to make the best it, enjoying life; it’s a pretty big deal to live to 100 years old… it’s a celebration that you can do things,” Cyndee added.

Second Annual 5K & 1K Walk/Run

P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

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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.

Register For TRLL 2024 Spring Season TOMS RIVER – Register now for Toms River Little League 2024 spring season.

Softball bасk to back New Jersey State Champions.

Open to girls ages 4 to 16. Register online at trll.us. Registration Fees: $225 first child; $175 second child (additional

children are free).

Players must reside in Toms River Township or attend one of the following schools: St. Joseph’s Grade School, Donovan Catholic, Hugh Boyd Elementary, Lavallette Elementary, or Island Heights Elementary School.

Spring Bling Sale In Toms River TOMS RIVER – The Friends of the Ocean Library Toms River Branch is hosting a Spring Bling Sale on April 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mancini Hall, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street, Toms River.

Jewelry Sale to benefit the Ocean County Library. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, purses, scarves, belts and more.

Donations can be dropped off at the Ocean County Library Toms River or call 908-3077265. Cash only.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 11

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

OCC Receives Federal Grant For Students’ Basic Needs TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has been awarded grant funding in the amount of $949,275 to be distributed over the course of three years as part of the U.S. Education Department’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE).

The FIPSE grant helps eligible institutions of higher education improve educational opportunities for students from underrepresented communities, by providing funding to support programs that address basic needs such as food, housing, transportation, health care, and dependent care, and report on best practices that improve student outcomes.

Funds will assist OCC’s FIPSE Grant Student Financial Resource Center in its mission to help students meet financial needs in the areas of food security, transportation, technology, health, housing, and dependent care. These are areas of the student’s life outside of academic support that can make reaching their academic goals, staying in classes, and ultimately graduating, challenging.

“It is incredibly exciting to have the ability to provide holistic fi nancial support to the students of Ocean County College,” said James Campbell, OCC’s FIPSE Grant project manager. “There are many resources available to students, but few that can have as significant an impact on the life of a student as the ability to provide a fi nancial safety net.”

Services provided by OCC’s FIPSE Grant Student Financial Resource Center include direct fi nancial assistance for students as well as connection with campus and community programs for long term support, and are focused in the following areas: Basic Needs Security: obtaining food security, hygiene and cleaning products, and support in utilizing campus and community-based resources, including the Helping Hands Food Pantry.

Transportation Support: including funding for public transit, ride sharing, gasoline, and one-time emergency auto repairs.

Dependent Care Support: vouchers for temporary childcare and dependent care items such as diapers, Depends, formula, nutritional shakes, etc.

Emergency relief: Funding is available to help contribute to auto repair costs, healthcare costs, emergency housing costs, and utilities payments, along with connection to resources both on and off campus that may provide long-term assistance in these areas.

The Basic Needs grant funds $949,275 over the three-year period, and 100% of the college’s program costs are funded by the grant. More information about the grant program is available on the FIPSE web site.

For more information about OCC’s Student Financial Resource Center program, visit the center online at ocean.edu/fipse-grant-student-financial-resource-center.

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Page 12, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

A 140-foot tall stealth monopole telecommunications tower was constructed at 301 Strickland Boulevard, Toms River, Ocean County, New Jersey (N39° 59’ 42.9”, W74° 04’ 07.5”). SWI Funds Tower Holdings, LLC is acquiring ownership of the existing facility and invites comments from any interested party on the impact the undertaking may have had on any districts, sites, buildings, structures, or objects significant in American history, archaeology, engineering, or culture that are listed or determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Comments may be sent to Environmental Corporation of America, ATTN: Annamarie Howell, 1375 Union Hill Industrial Court, Suite A, Alpharetta, GA 30004 or via email to publicnotice@eca-usa.com. Ms. Howell can be reached at (770) 667-2040 x 108 during normal business hours. Comments must be received within 30 days of the date of this notice. 23-003682 CVG

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

Hoops For Heart At HSE Helps AHA

Photo courtesy Allison Goodwin/Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – Hoops for Heart is a fundraiser at High School East organized by teacher Jamie Blondina.

Through it, students - in lieu of gym class - can pay $1 to shoot around in the gym. Or, if they don’t want to shoot hoops, their donation allows them to

write their name on a heart that gets hung on the wall.

The money goes to the American Heart Association.

According to Blondina, the school’s 2024 Hoops for Heart initiative raised $850 for the AHA.

32nd Annual River To Bay 5K

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TOMS RIVER – Join on May 4 for the 32nd Annual River to Bay 5K Classic, presented by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Toms River on its beautiful Island Heights course. This race is a USATF certified course. All participants must agree to the terms of the USATF Waiver as a condition of registration.

All proceeds benefit local youth and charitable organizations. Visit tomsriverkiwanis. org and click the History tab to see some of the organizations they support.

Limited to the first 750 participants, sign

up early before the race fills up! Any “early bird” registrants before April 9 save $5 on registration. Early bird registrants are guaranteed a race shirt of the correct size, we cannot guarantee availability for those registering after early bird.

Persons, companies, or groups interested in sponsoring the 2024 race may contact alex.mizenko@gmail.com. Sponsorships range from $75 to $2,500.

For more information and to register, visit: runsignup.com/Race/NJ/IslandHeights/ RivertoBay5K.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 13

COMMUNITY NEWS

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church of the Byzantine Rite 1937 Church Road, Toms River, NJ 732-255-6272 Visit us at: OLPHTR.ORG

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

Officers Volunteer Security For Local Event Welcoming New Parishioners!

Divine Liturgy Sunday & Wednesday 9:00am Home of: EasternCatholicBroadcasting.com

Photo courtesy Toms River PBA TOMS RIVER – On February 9, nine members of Toms River Police Department PBA #137 volunteered to provide security at the Tim Tebow Foundations, “Night to Shine” event hosted by the Presbyterian Church of Toms River.

Members worked side by side with members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department and

TRPD CSOs to make sure that the building was secure, and that all participants and volunteers were safe throughout this wonderful night.

They had such a great night interacting with the participants and were thrilled to have an opportunity to give back to our residents.

They are already looking forward to this event next year!

Quantum Behavioral Health Services is now accredited by The Joint Commission!

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THE QUANTUM PROCESS

Spring Craft Market TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Elks will be hosting a Spring Craft Market on March 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 600 Washington Street, Toms River.

Shop over 100 tables of local craft and artisan vendors indoor. Includes woodcrafts, crochet, paper goods, jewelry, décor, art, accessories, clothing, and much more!

Vendors wanted! All vendors will be

located indoors in one place in the great hall. Each space consists on one six-foot long table (provided). There is no space available in the aisles or on the sides of the tables to display products or stands.

Spaces will not have access to electricity.

Items for sale should be new, this is not a “yard sale” type of event.

To learn more, visit tomsriverelks.org/ spring-craft-market.

Toms River Elks St. Patrick’s Day Bash TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Elks Lodge #1875 is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Bash on March 16 from 1 to 6 p.m. featuring music by Ballyhaunis Band

from 2 to 6 p.m.

Open to the public. Menus includes: potato leek soup $4; Irish nachos $6; corned beef sandwiches on rye $10; Reubens $12.

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Page 14, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

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

Fire Company Celebrates ExChief’s Service

Photo courtesy Toms River Fire Department Company #1 TOMS RIVER – On February 3, the Toms River Fire Department Company #1 celebrated Ex-Chief Mark Autenrieth & Ex-Captain Stephen Hayes for both having 50 years of Dedicated Service to the Fire Company.

School Says Goodbye To Long-Time Educator

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools TOMS RIVER – Cedar Grove said thank you and goodbye to long-time health and physical education teacher Lisa Wilhelm. Thank you for your dedication to the district and enjoy your retirement!

Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com

AS THE LEADING RESOURCE FOR SENIOR VETERANS WE WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE APPROVAL PROCESS

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The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 15

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

Students And Staff Celebrate The Super Bowl

Family Owned & Professional Operated for Two Generations

Intelisano Family SILVERTON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME 2482 Church Road • Toms River, NJ 08753 • Honoring Life • Funeral Services • Funeral Etiquette • Veteran Services • Permanent Memorialization • Grief Support • Community Events

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Paula De John - Manager • NJ Lic#3438 Gregory De John - Manager • NJ Lic#4261 Teresa Intelisano - Director • NJ Lic#3294

TOMS RIVER – Students and staff at High School South celebrated the Super Bowl by wearing their favorite NFL team’s jerseys to school.

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Bunny Bingo

RC R.C.SHEA S

TOMS RIVER – Bunny Bingo will be on March 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at St. Francis Community Center, 1258 Route 166 Toms River.

This free event is hosted by the Senior Employment Assistance (SEA). Open to the Ocean County public 55 and up look-

ing to upskill and re-enter the workforce.

Prepare your rabbit ears and lucky charms for our Easter Bunny Bingo! Join for a fun-filled morning of games and exciting prizes. Light refreshments will be provided.

To register, call 732-281-8653.

Vendor & Craft Fair TOMS RIVER – Come out and shop vendors and crafters on April 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fun Bags Cornhole, 452 Route 37 Suite 2, Toms River.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for Katie’s Visionary

of the Year campaign!

Vendor fee is $40 and shoppers are free. Vendors can apply at the Google doc form, which can be found at: facebook.com/CrawlinforaCure.

Any questions, email Katie at katie.s@ crawlinforacure.com.

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Page 16, The Toms River Times, February 24, 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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The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 17

HERE’S TO YOUR HEALTH Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Unlocking Mental Clarity: A Comprehensive Guide To Bacopa’s Benefits

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. Bacopa monnieri, known as Brahmi, is a revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine for its cognitive-enhancing and stress-reducing properties.

Its adaptogenic and nootropic benefits, supported by scientific research, include improving memory, reducing anxiety and stress, and enhancing brain health.

Studies highlight Bacopa’s impact on neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, which are crucial for mood regulation, cognitive function, and relaxation.

As you will soon learn, Bacopa can reduce stress.

It is an adaptogen. We don’t think about stress too much, other than figuring out ways to deal with it, but stress raises cortisol in the body. When that happens, you can lose your hair, or it thins out.

This is one common reason people have sudden thinning hair, or hair loss… they went through a tough time several weeks or months prior.

Anyway, Bacopa is adaptogenic, and reduces cortisol and as such, it may indirectly help with hair growth. It is known to thin the blood, and slow the heart rate down so I should caution you about those side effects.

There are 10 main ways that Bacopa can help a person. It mainly improves mood, sleep and brain power. The key benefits include: • Memory Enhancement: Research shows Bacopa significantly improves memory in older adults, aiding against age-related cognitive decline.

• Stress Reduction: Bacopa reduces cortisol levels, mitigating stress’s impact on mental clarity and hair health.

• Neuronal Communication: It boosts synaptic communication, enhancing the brain’s information processing capabilities.

• Antioxidant Protection: Rich in antioxidants, Bacopa protects against neurodegenerative diseases and supports cellular longevity.

• Improved Focus: Studies found Bacopa

improves attention, learning rate, and memory, beneficial for both students and professionals.

• Mental Health Support: It offers calming effects on the nervous system, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. One way it does this is by improving thyroid hormone levels.

• Sleep Quality: By reducing anxiety, Bacopa aids in improving sleep patterns and quality.

• Neuroprotection: Its compounds protect the brain against cognitive decline and support brain health across ages.

Aging Brain Health: Enhances cognitive functions and memory, supporting healthy aging.

• Stress Adaptability: Improves resilience to stress for better mental balance in today’s fastpaced environment.

Usage typically involves capsules or tablets due to their bitter taste, with liquid extracts also available for those preferring a different form.

Integrating Bacopa monnieri into your regimen is great for mental performance and relaxation.

Synapsa® is a brand of this herb, and its proprietary form has been featured in seven different clinical trials over the past 30 years. It’s the best in my opinion because it’s standardized and patented. This is why I sourced it for my Memory Script capsules which you can find online at my shop, or on Amazon. You can buy other types of Bacopa monnieri at any health food store nationwide.

For those people seeking the ultimate in brain focus, recall, and relaxation, I’d also consider taking Magnesium L Threonate which is also widely available. The magnesium and Bacopa would be amazing together.

To summarize this, we all seem to rely on caffeine for brain power these days, but there’s a more natural botanical herb called Bacopa monnieri and I think it has powerful adaptogenic effects on the body. I have a longer version of this article, and a free ebook available at my website suzycohen.com.

PEDIATRIC DENTISTS & ORTHODONTISTS FOR YOUR CHILD! WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! 368 Lakehurst Road | Suite 305 Toms River, NJ 08755

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(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) ©2024 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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Page 18, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Drone Rules

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

What Are The Rules When Flying Drones For Fun? By: Michael J. Deem Esq., of R.C. Shea & Associates

OCEAN ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES WELCOMES

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Before fellowship, Dr. Nugent completed his Orthopedic Surgery residency at Jefferson Health NJ, where he served as Chief Resident. During his third year of training, he received the residency’s research award for best research project. Dr. Nugent completed his pre-medical education at the University of Delaware and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ). He then completed medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine.

He has several peer-reviewed research publications in the field of orthopedic surgery focusing on both patient and surgeon well-being. He has presented at multiple national orthopedic meetings including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) annual meeting.

In his spare time, Dr. Nugent enjoys spending time with his wife, playing golf, visiting the beach, and watching live music. He is passionate about patient care. In treating patients like family, his ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life of his patients, through both nonoperative and operative interventions.

Call 732.349.8454 • oceanortho.com

Fly for Fun under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft!

You don’t need permission from the FAA to fly your UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft, but you must always fly safely. You may elect to register your UAS to help in the recovery of lost equipment, but this is not required.

The FAA has adopted the following UAS Safety Guidelines: • Fly at or below 400 feet • Be aware of airspace requirements and restrictions • Stay away from surrounding obstacles • Keep your UAS within sight • Never fly near other aircraft, especially near airports • Never fly over groups of people • Never fly over stadiums or sports events • Never fly near emergency response efforts such as fires • Never fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol Flying under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft.

The Special Rule for Model Aircraft (P.L. 112-95, Section 336) provides the definition and operating rules for flying a model aircraft. Model aircraft operators that comply with all of these operational requirements during flight do not have to register their UAS with the FAA. Model aircraft operators must follow these rules to fly under this Rule: • the aircraft is flown strictly for hobby or recreational use (once you start earning money from the use of the drone you have removed yourself from this exception); • the aircraft is operated in accordance with a community-based set of safety guidelines and within the programming of a nationwide community-based organization; • the aircraft is limited to not more than 55 pounds unless otherwise certified through a

design, construction, inspection, flight test, and operational safety program administered by a community-based organization; • the aircraft is operated in a manner that does not interfere with and gives way to any manned aircraft; and • when flown within 5 miles of an airport, the operator of the aircraft provides the airport operator and the airport air traffic control tower (when an air traffic facility is located at the airport) with prior notice of the operation (model aircraft operators flying from a permanent location within 5 miles of an airport should establish a mutually-agreed upon operating procedure with the airport operator and the airport air traffic control tower [when an air traffic facility is located at the airport]) A model aircraft is defined as an unmanned aircraft that is capable of sustained flight in the atmosphere, flown within visual line of sight of the person operating the aircraft and flown for hobby or recreational purposes.

UAS Registration If you do not operate exclusively under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft, you must: • Register your UAS if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds and less than 55 pounds • Label your UAS (PDF) with your registration number and • Read and understand all safety guidelines Registration costs $5 and is valid for 3 years. If you are flying under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft and you wish to register voluntarily, you should register as a “modeler.” If you are flying under part 107, Section 333, part 91, a public COA, or for non-recreational purposes in general, you should register as a “non-modeler.”

In order to register, you must be: • 13 years of age or older (if the owner is less than 13 years of age, a person 13 years of age or older must register the small unmanned aircraft) • A U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

jerseyshoreonline.com

History:

Continued From Page 1 After the American Revolution, that power passed to the new state assembly under New Jersey’s 1776 State Constitution.

In 1798, the state legislature passed the “Township Act” which incorporated the original 104 townships of New Jersey then in existence. Thus, townships were seen, in the law, as “municipal corporations.” One of these newly incorporated towns was our town - then known as the “Town of Dover” which had been previously created by a special act of the colonial assembly in 1767. (We changed our corporate name to the “Township of Toms River” in 2006 by voter referendum.)

The Annual Town Meeting During this period of time, known in American history as the “early Federal period,” the form of government resembled the New England town meeting, often referred to as “direct democracy.” Under this format, towns in New Jersey were governed by the “annual town meeting.” Citizens could vote and collectively make decisions at this meeting for the coming year - but not all citizens. The ability to vote had several requirements: white males only; at least 21 years of age; citizens of New Jersey; residents of the town for at least six months; and those who paid taxes in the township, or who owned land or rented a home in the township of at least $5.00.

At the annual meeting, these citizens had several specific powers to determine local matters: to build and maintain roads, to support the poor, to improve common lands, and to elect a clerk, tax assessor, tax collector, and township committee. Five “judicious freeholders” (property owners) were to serve for a one-year term as members of the township committee and their responsibility was solely to examine, inspect, and report on the accounts of the other officials. Simply, the township committee was to supervise spending each year. The clerk, assessor, and collector were also chosen for one year each.

Meetings were held in private homes or at “public houses” - taverns. It was common practice to meet, discuss, and decide public matters at taverns during colonial times.

This format governed New Jersey towns

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 19 throughout the nineteenth century. Numerous amendments to the 1798 law were made in the 1800s, but the basic structure of the once a year meeting continued.

The “Dover Town Book” The historic records of our town bear this out.

The “Dover Town Book” is a compilation of the minutes of the annual meetings here from 1783 to 1861. Handwritten by clerks, they record all kinds of matters decided upon. The annual meeting from 200 years ago is instructive. On March 9, 1824, the voting citizens met at the home of one Elijah Robins. The Robins family was long prominent in our community; a Robins family member fought on the American side during the Revolutionary War. Robins Street (also spelled with two ‘b’s), next to Town Hall, is named for him. At this meeting, one Joseph Lawrence was chosen to serve as both clerk and collector, and one James Rodgers was picked to be assessor. The constable, surveyors of highways, commissioners of appeals, and overseers of the poor were also chosen, in addition to the five members of the township committee. The minutes are filled with names long known in our town’s history: Applegate, Henderson, Irons, and Stout. At this meeting, “it was agreed that two hundred dollars be raised for the repair of the highway by hire,” according to the minutes.

I have often been asked: if our township was created in 1767 (June 24, 1767 by an Act of the colonial General Assembly), why do our minutes only begin in 1783? Answer: Since the British came to Toms River in 1782 during the waning days of the Revolutionary War and overran the Patriot blockhouse and burned the village to the ground, those early records were probably destroyed by fire or lost to the ravages of war. (Today, thanks to a grant from the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission that we obtained when I was Clerk, those very often hard to read handwritten minutes were transcribed and are now in easily readable typed form. They are available on the Toms River Township government website and can be found at “History” to “Related Documents” to “Town Book 1783 to 1861.” For trivia buffs, all Dover Township records were handwritten until January 1, 1925!)

The End Of The Annual Meeting But what about today? We no longer have just one annual meeting. What happened?

As time went by in New Jersey, as the state (History - See Page 23)

Page 20, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 21

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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.

732-849-6068 (new number). (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) Buying - World War I & II Swords, Bayonets, Daggers, Helmets, Hats, Medals, Marine, Uniforms, Flags, etc. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: lenny1944x@gmail.com.

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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) 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) Lifeguards/Badge Checkers/PT Laborer - Borough of Ocean Gate.

Apply: Municipal Building or download application. 801 Ocean Gate Ave. Ocean Gate, NJ 08740. c/o Clerk. (9) 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)

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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:

TO: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

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

Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER

(THIS IS REQUIRED)

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

Hackensack Meridian Health Mourns Loss Of Former Co-CEO

By Alyssa Riccardi EDISON – Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) has announced the passing of their former co-CEO of the network John K. Lloyd.

From 2016 to 2018, Lloyd served as co-CEO and played an important part instrumental in the 2016 merger of Meridian Health and Hackensack University Health Network, forming Hackensack Meridian Health.

“John’s legacy lives on in New Jersey and at Hackensack Meridian Health. Beyond being a visionary leader, John was a wonderful man, well-known throughout HMH as being someone who truly cared for each and every team member,” said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer of Hackensack Meridian Health. “He brought his authentic self to work every day, and dedicated his life to serving his team, and our patients. It was

a privilege to work beside him as co-CEO. He was a great colleague, mentor and a true friend. Our network extends our deepest condolences to the entire Lloyd family.”

Before serving as co-CEO, Lloyd was president and CEO of Meridian Health. Under his leadership, Meridian was rated among the top performing health systems in New Jersey for clinical quality.

In addition, Meridian was recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” in the United States six times. Meridian received numerous state and national recognitions for patient care and nursing excellence. They were the first health system in the country to receive Magnet designation for nursing excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

When Lloyd was named president of Jersey

Shore Medical Center in1982 ,the hospital was at a crossroads, according to a press release.

“In collaboration with physicians, trustees, employees, and community leaders, Lloyd quickly set the hospital on a track to success.

Today, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center is one of the leading independent academic medical centers in the nation,” the press release states. “Lloyd was instrumental in developing Meridian’s continuum of care, providing greater access to care for the communities we serve. HMH’s ambulatory network is, in large part, what it is today, because of John’s vision and leadership.”

Lloyd graduated from Princeton University and served in the United States Marine Corps, before attaining a Masters of Business Administration in Health Administration at Temple

University. In 1972, he entered the healthcare industry as an administrative resident at Episcopal Hospital in Philadelphia.

Lloyd is a past recipient of the Medical Executive Award from the Academy of Medicine of NJ and the Distinguished Business Leader Award from Monmouth University. Lloyd was recognized by the NJHA as its Healthcare Professional of the Year. Additionally, he has been ranked among the most powerful health care leaders by NJBIZ and has been listed as a “Nonprofit Hospital and Health System CEOs to Know” by Becker’s.

Lloyd was a recipient of the Icon Award by NJBIZ and the Maurice Pollack Award for Community Service from Monmouth University. Lloyd was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the American College of Healthcare Executives of New Jersey.

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History:

Continued From Page 19 grew in population during the nineteenth century, it became apparent that a once a year meeting was no longer practical. So, in 1899, the old 1798 law was repealed and replaced with a new “modern” one which abolished the annual town meeting. In its place, power was vested in the township committee.

No longer would that committee be simply an overseer of spending. The committee was given wide legislative power to adopt ordinances, set policy, and make appointments. The term of members of the township committee was changed from one to three years and one member of the committee was chosen annually to preside over meetings and serve as the

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 23 chairperson, commonly known as “mayor.”

In 1989, the 1899 law underwent significant changes. The election by the voters of the clerk, collector, and assessor was ended. Today, these officials are appointed and are required to receive special training and receive certification from the state government after passing required courses and an examination.

The township committee form of government still exists today in many municipalities in New Jersey. Here in Toms River, in a voter referendum, we changed our form of government from township committee to mayor-council. This was done under the provisions of the “Optional Municipal Charter Law” of New Jersey, commonly known as the “Faulkner Act.” This law was enacted in 1950 and is named after Bayard Faulkner, who was a scholar of government. It

gives municipalities the “option” to choose from several different forms of local government organization. Voters here choose the mayor-council plan, with the mayor directly elected at-large, and three council members, also elected at-large, and four individual ward representatives. This form was narrowly approved by the voters in 2002 (12,063-yes to 11,106-no) and governs our town today.

Democracy In Action So, there you have it: from a grant from the king of England in the seventeenth century to today - the history of government and meetings in New Jersey. It’s democracy in action.

As Winston Churchill famously once said: “No one pretends that democracy is perfect, or all wise. It has been said that

democracy is the worst form of government - except for all of those that have been tried from time to time.”

SOURCES: The “Dover Town Book”; A History of Municipal Government in New Jersey since 1798, by Albert J. Wolfe, published by the New Jersey League of Municipalities (1990); International Churchill Society; Ocean County Clerk’s Office website J. Mark Mutter, Esq., is the former Clerk of Dover and Toms River Township. He served on the Dover Township Committee for three terms and served as Mayor in 1993 and 2000.

He chaired the township’s 225-year anniversary committee in 1992, its 250-year committee in 2017, and its Constitution bi-centennial committee in 1987. He is writing a book on the history of Toms River.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 24, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

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rehabilitation center

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

Micromedia Publications will mark 29 years this April. We have seven weekly newspapers and they are read by thousands of residents and visitors to the area each week.

This includes all ages as you can see from these photos submitted by their proud papa. Want to see your pix in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may be hearing from us!

Outdoor Spring Spectacular Market TOMS RIVER – The East Dover Baptist Church is hosting an Outdoor Spring Spectacular Market on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Come stroll the lawn for some springtime

shopping! Over 30 artisans and vendors!

They will also have a cafe with snacks, lunch and drinks for sale!

The East Dover Baptist Church is located at 974 Bay Avenue, Toms River.

NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE

HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC. A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 680 Hooper Ave. • Building B 2nd Floor Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 25

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Krill – A Tiny Shrimp-Like Crustacean – Feeds Many

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator These tiny little creatures are very important part of the world’s food chain. They support the diets of hundreds of other species. Generally, they resemble small crayfish, shrimp, and lobster, but only reach a maximum length of about two inches and weigh less than one ounce.

Krill consists of many species and are found throughout the world’s oceans. Most species will migrate during the day from deeper waters where they hide from predation to more shallow waters at night, feeding while still under the cover of darkness.

Traveling in schools together, they provide food to predators in abundance, meaning, many are consumed at one time. Animals such as seals, penguins, and baleen whales prey on them. Baleen refers to the filter-feeding system inside the mouths of baleen whales. The whale will open its mouth underwater. The whale will force the water out from its mouth, where it filters krill, and then consume the krill. There are approximately 16 species of baleen whales, which include the humpback, sperm, and bowhead. The blue whale, which is the largest animal that has ever lived, consumes approximately 40 million

krill each day (8,000 pounds of food daily).

Aside from marine life consuming krill, krill is also commercially harvested by humans. In countries like Japan, Russia, Spain, and the Philippines, people enjoy eating krill. However, most commercial catch is used to feed fish in home aquariums. The krill are dried and packaged.

The change in climate plays a significant part in the survival of our planet. Not just the oceans, but everywhere. Pollution can cause algal blooms (toxin-producing algae) that can impact the entire food chain. Species feeding upon other food sources become affected, and therefore the breakdown of life support for many can become catastrophic. Any loss of habitat or food sources in nature will cause an imbalance beyond our ability to measure. In the last 100 years, humans have driven 18 animals to extinction. Once they’re gone – they’re gone.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly.

To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES DIRECT CREMATION $1875 Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Place Of Death, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory Located at:

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst

732-657-7868

WWW.DEGRAFFFUNERALHOME.COM

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Sherry T. DeGraff Cremains & Certified Copies Of Death Certificates, Permit,

NJ Lic No 3921

Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 26, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 “You Shook Me All Night Long” band 5 Apiphobe’s phobia 9 “I __ confused” 13 Wintry mess 14 Sole 15 Mountain cat 16 *Frying pans anyone can use?

18 “Oh, please!”

19 Revealing session on Reddit, for short 20 Christmas song 21 Shrimp and __ 22 *Group that attends Mass together every week?

25 Treeless plain 28 Districts 29 Like some dental floss 30 Shortcomings 32 “The Last O.G.” network 35 Bother 36 *Discussion about what fruit to

bake for dessert?

38 In the style of 39 Spoil 40 Man of many words?

41 Wild beasts also called wildebeests 42 Water filter brand 44 Some surprise hits 46 *Fitting motto for Pisa’s tower keeper?

49 Big name in applesauce 50 Tirade 51 Bath mother 54 Way off 55 *Devil on one’s shoulder?

58 “What __ say?”

59 Catholic leader 60 Old Dodges 61 URL starter 62 Spy-fi country 63 Decisive defeat, and a two-word hint to the answers to the starred clues 1 Grad

Down

2 Gloria Estefan’s birthplace 3 ISP option 4 “Things’ll turn around, you’ll see” 5 Showed respect, in a way 6 Sherlock’s sister, per a 2020 Netflix film 7 Caribou kin 8 Pt. of GPS 9 “Just Putting It Out There” comedian Nancherla 10 Score keeper?

11 Patti known as the “Godmother of Punk” 12 Clods 13 Place for pampering 17 Ice cream holder 21 Word in many WiFi network names 22 Intel collector 23 Luxury vessel 24 La __ Tar Pits 25 Did the breaststroke, e.g.

26 “Voil !”

27 Outrageous, as a

price 30 Like the Beyond Burger 31 Curling surface 33 Sad 34 Back talk 36 Noses around 37 Wee bit 41 Negroni need 43 Family vacay, perhaps 44 “Molto __!”

45 Had done, as a portrait 46 Diet-friendly 47 Comes out, as an album 48 __ tag 49 Namesake of a speed ratio 51 List that may be accessed by scanning a QR code 52 One of a kind 53 Rx writers 55 PC core 56 Grammy winners __ Lonely Boys 57 “As I see it” shorthand

(c)2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SU DO K U

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble: FABLE BLURT PEANUT PALACE - UNFLAPPABLE

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024, Page 27

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF FEB 24 - MAR 1

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): Established patterns may change in unexpected ways. Make yourself ready to take advantage of this vibe to improve your position and influence. Be a resource to help those around you deal with transition.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Staying in contact with your network may be more important than usual. Knowing who to call for a favor can help get things done. Be ready to adapt to unforeseen changes. Prove that you’re the one.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You can invest your time or pass your time. Every day you have the opportunity to choose between working toward attainment of your goals or succumbing to all the fun distractions out there. Choose wisely.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):Try to let subtle annoyances go rather than becoming reactive. You may find that some people honor their promises even when you do not agree completely. People pretty much want the same things; look for commonality.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Power struggles may only cause confusion. Consider if the struggle is really within yourself.

Attaining material success might be more about perseverance than by learning complex tech or inventing something unique.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may think everything is aligned for romance, but your partner might not understand your enthusiasm. It could be awkward, but find a time to discuss your feelings. Work together to determine where the relationship leads.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Distractions for dating singles could seem endless, yet the right person can be out there if you meet under Cinderella stars. You can miss your soulmate if your timing is off. Talk to your friends about your wants and needs.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): There are often degrees of compromise everyone must negotiate. If people push you to abandon your vision, decide where you can change and what can’t be touched.

See where their goals align with yours.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): New beginnings under poor stars are difficult even if you do everything right. If things pile up it might seem that ignoring logic is the only way to get anything done. Take things one step at a time.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Confidence is a form of bravery. It’s not a lack of fear but being afraid and doing the right thing anyway.

Know that your resolve can be very effective when you face people who say it can’t be done.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): There may be agitation if you discuss your plans. Even if you’re intending to commit, the initial circumstances may raise questions. Understand the hurdles you face if you decide to pursue this path.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Ignite your ambitions with imaginative ideas, insights, and inspirations. Use your sixth sense to connect with people you can trust in business as well as in love. Take the time to form new social connections.

(c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE BEST QUICHE RECIPE, THIS IS IT!

By America’s Test Kitchen

LEEK AND GOAT CHEESE QUICHE

­

(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 28, The Toms River Times, February 24, 2024

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