Valentine’s Day Party Brings Heart To The Holiday
Enjoying refreshments were attendees of this year’s Jackson Township Commission for the Disabled Valentine’s Day Party held at the township community center.
By Bob Vosseller JACKSON
– The Township’s Commission for the Disabled and Handicapped enjoyed Valentine’s Day a little earlier this year but that made it all the more fun.
Last weekend a Valentine’s Day event was held and Commission representative Karen Lundgren noted that “between a great season finale of our Challenger Basketball program, with Coach Don Connor, and an incredible Valentine’s Party at the Senior Center we could not be more thrilled.”
Suely Fries, the co-chair of the Commission previously told The Jackson Times “we are the only agency in town that offers something in terms of recreation and leisure for people with special needs. With Jackson being so big and –in some ways, remote – it can be a pain to drive 20 or 30 minutes for something, so we do what we can with the budget we have because it all comes down to money at the end of the day.”
Fries noted that the Commission receives “an
(Valentine’s - See Page 2)
Survey On Homeless Discussed
By Bob Vosseller
PLUMSTED – Township officials recently responded to a letter to the governing body requesting further information about a homeless survey being conducted in the community. Also discussed during a recent Township Committee meeting was the possibility of an Ocean County satellite office. The non-profit agency Monarch Housing Associates has been tasked with conducting a survey about the homeless population in areas of Ocean County. They had requested use of a township office, Committeeman James Hagelstein said.
The survey concerns learning if there are homeless in town, the circumstances that led to their being homeless and how to help them.
However, there is no truth to the rumor that they are creating a homeless shelter in town, he said.
School Board Educates Public On Redistricting
By Bob Vosseller
JACKSON - Members of the public had another opportunity to share their concerns, ask questions and learn more information related to the school district’s restructuring/ redistricting plan during the latest Board of Education meeting.
Superintendent Nicole Pormilli stated the Board wouldn’t be voting on the matter during this meeting but would during its February 19 session. “The Board will consider public input and any existing data they request. The reason why we are doing this is to continue to have our strong academic programs, that we have an updated curriculum, a wide variety of electives for our students and a plethora of extracurricular programs.”
She noted that some questions might not be able to be answered until “we start the process of bringing people together and uniting our staff and our students in committee work such as what will the middle school details be or the 5-6 grade schedule be.” Last month the district announced that Goetz Middle School will close. The grade levels at the two high schools will be realigned, leaving only one as a four year high school.
Pormilli reminded residents, “these are big changes that are being recommended and there is a lot of empathy for that, we understand it,” the superintendent said. “We are one community and we are trying to chart a path forward for everybody and create wonderful opportunities for our students.”
“I heard some online chatter about it. All of it was unfounded,” Hagelstein added. He said, “if you are curious, you can Google Monarch Services Ocean County. It goes into every detail about the homeless, what their situation is. What the (School Board - See Page 4)
(Survey- See Page 6)
Vo-Tech Open House Showcases Hands-On Training
By Stephanie Faughnan
TOMS RIVER - For years, Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) students and staff have been the strongest advocates for the school’s programs, and this year’s Open House was no exception. The event’s success was driven by the direct engagement between visitors and the students and instructors who brought the benefits of Career and Technical Education (CTE) to life. Attendees experienced firsthand the enthusiasm, expertise, and hands-on learning that appear to define OCVTS.
School authorities noted that 1,786 individuals signed in to the Open House across its six campuses - Toms River, Brick, Jackson, Waretown, Little Egg Harbor, and Ocean County College. The event’s overwhelming turnout highlighted a growing appreciation for training in high-demand careers.
The Toms River campus alone provided a glimpse into the dynamic, real-world learning environments awaiting prospective students. The Electrical Studies classroom featured a framed structure alongside demonstration (Vo-Tech - See Page 2)
Photo By Bob Vosseller
Valentine’s:
Continued From Page 1
annual state grant and the township matches that grant. They wouldn’t even agree to give us the grant if the township didn’t give us a percentage back. It is called the ROID grant provided by the state of New Jersey and the township matches about 20%. That 20% comes in handy.”
Reviewing the history of the commission
Fries said the entity “has been going on since back in the 1970s. Melvin Cottrell (a former local Assemblyman) was highly involved in the township and he had a disability himself.”
“He wanted to do something for the community. He was always very civic minded. There were small groups back then and they would meet at the firehouse or someplace because the senior center didn’t exist back then,” Fries added.
Jackson Township built the senior center and after that whatever the special needs group was called at the time became the mayor’s commission for disabled and handicapped.
“We brainstorm new programs. We reach out to the community who sponsor some of the programs, especially the parties that can be very expensive. The Elks Club, the Rotary Club, the Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus help us. Sometimes they sponsor events for us,” Fries said.
Vo-Tech:
Continued From Page 1
boards, wiring components, and workbenches equipped with tools like wire strippers, circuit breakers, and transformers - everything an aspiring electrician needs to spark a bright future. The Marine Service Technology teaching space felt like a working boatyard, with boats, motors, and engines set up for students.
The welding lab featured a bustling workspace where students hone their craft using machinery that blends science and artistry. Meanwhile, the Cosmetology classroom setup featured rows of sinks, mannequins for handson practice, and styling stations. Students in both the medical assistant and dental assisting programs were uniformed and eager to step into professional practices to get to work.
“We are thrilled to announce the success of the recent Open House for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District (OCVTS),” said Superintendent Karen L. Homiek. “ It was an incredible opportunity to showcase the hands-on programs, dedicated and passionate instructors and pathways available for students to excel in their careers in all six centers.”
“OCVTS is excited to be part of the surge in vocational education as we shape the future workforce,” Homiek continued. “The Ocean County Commissioners and the OCVTS Board of Education are staunch supporters of the growth that the district is currently experiencing. We are most fortunate to be part of this positive movement that is shaping our workforce leading to lifetime careers.”
A Hands-On Pathway To Success
The Open House wasn’t just about showcasing classrooms and facilities - it was about opening doors to future careers. Students gain specified training and practical experience, a distinct advantage in the job market. Graduates are prepared to pass licensing tests, secure apprenticeships and successfully move into the workforce.
“The event underscored the significance of CTE in today’s economy,” said the school in a press release. “As industries evolve, the demand for skilled technical professionals continues to rise. OCVTS’ Open House not only highlighted the school’s role in meeting this demand but also demonstrated the practical and lucrative career paths available through CTE.”
Cosmetology, electrical trades, and welding
(Vo-Tech - See Page 16)
School Board:
Continued From Page 1
“If we don’t do this now those opportunities will be gone. We have reached that point where we can not affect our students with this budget. Doing this will allow us to be more fiscally sustainable and allow us to have opportunities for our students,” she noted.
The PowerPoint Presentation showed a slide that noted showing Jackson Memorial as the district’s one middle school serving 7th and 8th graders. The McAuliffe Middle School would serve as the only upper elementary school and Jackson Liberty High School would serve as the district’s only 9-12 high school. Goetz Middle School will be closed and sold as was the case last year with the Rosenbauer Elementary School.
Transportation tiers were also created to accommodate for the changing of busing required with these changes. It was noted that without these changes, there would be more bus runs on a particular tier than the school district’s transportation department could accommodate.
Pormilli responded to questions the district received about that stating, “with transpor-
tation there are a lot of factors as well. The committee spent a lot of time discussing those factors with our director of transportation. This is a large operation that Transportation operates in Jackson. Not only is it 100 square miles but it is a lot of transportation.”
She added, “it is very important that we don’t overburden one tier because it backs up into other tiers.” She noted recent examples where parents observed their students arrive home later or being picked up later than usual “because we have a significant amount of drivers out. We have a lot of illness going around right now in the schools. if we don’t have enough drivers, it causes backups.”
She noted the schedule was designed to allow for enough buses. The tiers being recommended will allow for “after school sports busing which we have struggled with for many years.”
She commented that the school district had received several suggestions to look at a 7-12th grade model that both existing high schools would have. “Our committee did review those recommendations and it was eliminated for several reasons.”
Those reasons included that the district could not afford to run two of everything and that neither model includes lowering operating
costs. “Overall, we are trying to lower our operating costs on a permanent basis. When you are operating two of everything you have a greater expense. Now those resources are in one building rather than being split,” the superintendent added.
There were also concerns noted about the developmental differences of having 7th and 8th grade students with high school students particularly traveling on the bus together. Neither 7-12 model allowed for equity among programs unless the lines were redrawn.
“We have a very unique situation,” Board President Tina Kas said, noting the large non-public school population that the district is required to pay the transportation costs for. “Transportation costs are just going to keep increasing. We are not trying to take away anyone’s legacy. Everyone is valued. At the end of the day, we have to come about as one community.”
Board Vice President Megan Gardella shared concerns about one-time actions that will cover budget deficit holes for one year but something else will be needed to be found for the next year. “We got here because we have cuts in state aid and we have enrollment drops. We have really good property value and we
Ocean County Bereavement Groups
are looked upon as being able to afford more.”
Board member Michael Walsh expressed his view that students and staff “will work it out.” “I agree with you Mr. Walsh things I think in time things will work. I’m concerned about the short term,” Board member Erica Osmond said. “How are we going to sustain? The state makes it really, really hard to sustain. We have a state monitor who can tell us we have to sell or lease buildings because we have to balance the budget. One thing we have been seeing in these presentations is that enrollment has dropped and it will continue to drop.”
“Is this recommendation the best choice? In the next five to six years will we be right back to where we are and will we have to redistrict again?” she asked. She noted that Jackson Liberty HS and McAuliffe MS were the two best assets in regards to properties that could be sold.
While the audience applauded the notion of selling these properties Osmond noted no one knows what the future could bring or what should be done as this was an unusual process that the administration and Board was experiencing. “There are a lot of nuances to it so it isn’t an easy question but it is a question we have to think about.”
OCEAN COUNTY – Therapist/Clergy, Rev.
Dr. Anthony Lipari, FCM, has been offering Grief Support Group sessions for over 21 years during the last week of every month.
The sessions are offered at 1 p.m. throughout Ocean County. The locations are as follows:
• Mondays: Ocean County Memorial Park in Waretown
• Tuesdays: Timothy Ryan Funeral Home on Fischer Boulevard, Toms River
• Wednesdays: Quinn Hopping Funeral Home on Mule Road, Toms River
• Thursdays: Anderson Campbell Funeral Home on Ridgeway Road, Manchester
• Fridays: Manchester Memorial Home on Schoolhouse Road, Whiting
Capitol Comments
Assemblyman Alex Sauickie
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
The More We Pay, The Less We Stay
TRENTON - New Jersey has often been cited as number one in the nation for something nobody wants: the highest property taxes. However, in its 2025 report, the Tax Foundation ranked our state at number 49 for tax competitiveness, but at number 43 for property taxes. That assessment of competitiveness is based on a collection of major taxes: in addition to property taxes, it considers income, sales, corporate and unemployment insurance taxes, placing us at second-worst behind New York. While it’s unsurprising that our overall tax burden on businesses is that bad, it’s unexpected to see New Jersey go from consistently the worst or second-worst state for property taxes to number 43. I haven’t heard anyone in our state say that their property taxes have gone down, so it may just be that other states are getting worse in that regard.
Yet a little-known study published on self. inc says New Jersey does have the highest estimated lifetime property taxes in the country. More broadly, the study found that New Jersey residents will pay the highest lifetime taxes nationally, and at the highest percentage
of lifetime earnings – 54.3%.
While these studies help us understand how our state compares to others, where we rank certainly doesn’t matter to anyone’s savings account. Property taxes here are high, and they aren’t going down.
Believe it or not, there’s been a lot of thought and effort put into addressing property taxes, and for a long time. On the Legislature’s website, you can still find electronic reams of information and reports from the 2006 “special legislative session” on property tax reform. Later, a greater focus was placed on encouraging local governments to consolidate and share services to save money.
Unfortunately, all those efforts haven’t resulted in actual property tax reductions as far as I know, although perhaps they would be even higher today otherwise. That’s why the state continues to provide property tax relief by check.
For many, there’s the longstanding Homestead Rebate program, expanded into ANCHOR in 2022. For seniors, there’s the Senior Freeze and now the Stay NJ program, which is scheduled to become operational next year.
Under recent legislation I supported, seniors’ benefits under those three programs will be coordinated, and a single application form is now available for downloading, although online application won’t be available until sometime
this month. That combined form is only for homeowners 65 and older or who are disabled and receiving Social Security benefits. Others will be able to apply for ANCHOR separately later this year.
While the coordination of benefits for seniors is a little complicated to explain, the bottom line is that Stay NJ can only increase overall benefits, and won’t take away anything provided by the other two programs. Taxpayers already receiving a combined benefit from the Senior Freeze and ANCHOR that’s higher than the Stay NJ cap will continue to receive that higher benefit.
Seniors who want to get their Stay NJ payments by direct deposit will have to apply online when that becomes available. There’s certainly no problem with waiting, since the deadline isn’t until the end of October.
Seniors and disabled people may be eligible for an annual $250 property tax deduction as well. Aside from those programs, other property tax benefits are largely to express gratitude to veterans. There’s a total exemption from property taxes for veterans rated 100% disabled due to a service-connected event, and a $250 deduction for other veterans.
That $250 amount was set in 2003, and clearly has been eroded by inflation over the past two decades. I sponsor a constitutional amendment that would increase the benefit to $2,500 over four years.
I’ve also introduced a constitutional amendment to help people in unusual circumstances.
Plumsted has residents who make “payments in lieu of taxes” (“PILOTs”) that don’t meet the legal definition of property taxes, so they’re not eligible for the above benefits even though their payments serve the same purpose. My proposal would allow them to receive the same benefits as others if they are otherwise eligible.
I also sponsor a bill to extend the property tax exemption for totally disabled veterans, so that veterans disabled to a lesser extent would also get a benefit based on the degree of the disability. Discussions about that bill inspired me to introduce another constitutional amendment to provide a 50% property tax exemption for a retired police officer or firefighter on an accidental disability pension due to an injury incurred in the line of duty.
On property tax relief, the Legislature has to keep its promise by coming up with the money to fully fund the Stay NJ program, which is expected to cost $1.2 billion in its first full year. But it also needs to re-focus on relief for all. More residents are moving out of New Jersey than any other state for the seventh consecutive year, according to an annual study by United Van Lines. We need to help more people stay in NJ, and property tax relief is the way.
Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 12 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex) and on Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.
Bill Would Give Small Businesses Increased Access To Disaster Loans
Capitol Comments
Senator Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Kennedy (R-LA), a member of the Senate Appropriations and Banking Committees, introduced the Small Business Disaster Damage Fairness Act of 2025. The bill would allow borrowers to get a Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster assistance loan for up to $50,000, rather than the current $14,000, without pledging collateral.
Despite rising costs, the collateral threshold has remained stagnant for over a decade. The collateral threshold for major disasters has
been at $14,000 since 2008 for SBA-declared disasters.
In 2015, Congress passed Booker and Kennedy’s Rebuilding Small Businesses After Disasters Act, which temporarily increased the SBA collateral threshold to $25,000 in 2015.
“New Jerseyans are unfortunately too familiar with the impacts of extreme weather, from hurricanes to major flooding events. The last thing homeowners and small businesses should need to worry about is how they will access the funding they need to rebuild after a storm. This bill will help ensure small businesses everywhere have the support they need to recover in the wake of a disaster,” said Senator Booker.
“Too many small business owners can’t put
(Government - See Page 6)
Disclaimer: Micromedia Publications has always provided a space in its newspapers to provide a place for readers to learn what their elected officials are doing. These items are lightly edited for such things as punctuation and grammar but are mostly unchanged from the source. These press releases are the politicians’ own views, not that of Micromedia Publications. We cannot vouch for the accuracy of information that these politicians are providing, and readers are encouraged to keep an open mind and consider multiple sources.
Survey:
Continued From Page 1
demographics are and what is going on in your town. It is for a county service and the County was interested in coming to Plumsted Township to do their survey.”
Hagelstein noted that other communities have also welcomed the agency into their towns to perform the study. “I reached out to our chief of police. We do have some homeless in town and have individuals who need services and need help.”
County Satellite Office
Mayor Robert Bowen noted prior discussions with Ocean County about establishing a satellite office in Plumsted. “They have their main office in Toms River, an office at the Ocean County Mall, one in Matawan and one in Lakewood so we could potentially be their fourth satellite office.”
“I was at the County Connection at the Ocean County Mall that has all the services, senior services, social services and is a very large tourism bureau. We are accessing our needs for the town and what we’d like to see on Main Street,” the mayor added.
He noted that “one of the complaints that we had when we took the Town Hall off Main Street is that we took the foot traffic with us.” The mayor said the dynamics of such a satellite office on Main Street in relation to food traffic would be something to determine.
Bowen said the County Connection served as a nice draw for people to come to the mall for people seeking services, passports and other reasons.”
Hagelstein also spoke about the benefit of having services available to township residents locally as opposed to having to go into Toms River. “Let’s face it – it’s not always easy getting to Toms River so we are asking them to consider bringing services to us and it will help our foot traffic and population.”
County architects have looked at 31 Main Street - the former Town Hall and later a welcome center for the municipalitycould house such a satellite office.
“This would help our senior population. We don’t know if this will happen, it is still in talks and discussions are going well,” Hagelstein added.
“We are looking to bring back our downtown (Business District) bigger and stronger than ever,” Mayor Bowen said.
Government: Continued From Page
5
up collateral for a loan when disaster strikes. As a result, they can’t re-open their doors. My bill would make sure small businesses can get back to serving their communities after disasters hit,” said Senator Kennedy.
The SBA’s Disaster Loan Program is designed to help homeowners, renters, business-
es and nonprofits repair, rebuild and recover from disaster-related losses. In 2024, there were 27 weather-related disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damage.
The bill also codifies the Government Accountability Office (GAO)’s recommendation to distinguish between rural and urban communities for outreach and instructs the GAO to further report the Disaster Loan Program’s default rate.
Fire And EMS Grants Available
NEW JERSEY – Recognizing the bravery and commitment of volunteer firefighters and first responders, New Jersey American Water announced its 2025 grant program for volunteer fire departments and emergency responders (e.g., ambulance and first aid squads) located within the company’s service areas.
This year, based on applicant feedback, New Jersey American Water is moving the grant application period back to the beginning of the year, as it has been in the past, to better align with applicants budgeting and funding needs. The deadline to apply is April 14, 2025.
“New Jersey American Water is proud to acknowledge the extraordinary bravery and unwavering commitment of volunteer firefighters and first responders. Through our annual grant initiative, we support these heroic individuals who selflessly serve our communities,” said Mike Malloy, senior operations Manager at New Jersey American Water and a member of the New Jersey American Water Fire Grant Committee.
“Their dedication and courage truly deserve our gratitude and support.”
Since launching the program in 2011, New Jersey American Water has awarded 311 grants, totaling more than $360,000, to 161 local volunteer fire departments and emergency response units throughout its service area.
Grants may be used to cover the costs of personal protective equipment, communications gear, first aid equipment, firefighting tools, vehicle maintenance and other materials that will be used to support volunteer firefighter and emergency responder operations. Reimbursement for specific training courses, including the cost of training manuals, student workbooks, and instructors is also eligible.
To apply, organizations must complete the online application, located at newjerseyamwater.com , under News & Community, Community Involvement.
The maximum grant amount awarded to any organization is $2,500 and the deadline to apply is April 14, 2025. Interested applicants can find more information and apply online at newjerseyamwater.com/ community. Grant recipients will be notified by the end of June.
Race For Life To Support Maddie
JACKSON –Join to support Madelyn “Maddie” Brunas, Race for Life in Memory of Chuck Washington, on February 16 at 11 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Council 6201,401 Bartley Road, Jackson. Full Daytona 500 coverage on 11 screens, Gift Auction, food/beverages, cash bar, door prizes. Free t-shirt to the first 100 paying adults! Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for children 12 to 17, and kids under 12 are free.
For information contact Lou McGraw 732-804-8766 or email Louissm98@ gmail.com.
“Maddie” is a vibrant, self-driven twoyear-old with a fierce determination and an unbreakable spirit. Despite facing challenges that most could never imagine, she meets every day with courage, resilience, and a smile that lights up the room. She has a strong, independent nature and loves to do things her way, proving time and again just how capable she is. She is obsessed with her not so much older
brother Mikey who’s 3 and their dog Bruce. Maddie loves Moana, Toy Story, Shrek and Minnie Mouse. She loves animals and playing outside. Maddie loves swimming in her pool and going to the beach. Maddie also loves food! Snacks especially. Her nickname is “tippy toes” because she is always walking on her tippy toes.
Maddie has to endure so much at such a young age. She has had many rounds of chemo, multiple lumbar punctures, and immunotherapy treatment. In February we will be admitted to Jersey Shore and Maddie’s port will be accessed for 28 days and she will be attached to a bag of medicine that will pump through her 24/7.
If you want to meet a “warrior” it’s our Maddie. Leukemia is a long, intense battle. Cancer has already stolen so much from our family but we are determined to beat this.
We pray Maddie keeps responding to treatment and one day this will be something she won’t remember - and just a story we will tell.
Photo courtesy Louis McGraw
Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption
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.
Here is Benjamin, waiting for his forever family to adopt him! Big Ben is super fun. He can’t help his size, he’s a big guy for a kitten who just turned 5 months old on January 25. If you are looking for a friendly, loveable big goofy boy who almost thinks he’s a dog - he comes when called and will carry toys around in his mouth - Big Ben is your kitten! Ben was a little guy too once,
Photo courtesy Calling All Cats but he likes his meals, runs into the kitchen when he hears action and even chomps on his food like a tiger! He loves a good nap, loves hanging out with the family and is unfazed by the dog.
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.
Jackson Education Foundation Presents Comedy Night Fundraiser
JACKSON – Jackson Education Foundation presents Comedy Night fundraiser with Missy Hall on February 27 at the Howell/Jackson Knights of Columbus, 401 Bartley Road, Jackson.
Entry fee is $40. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Cash bar; BYO food to share;
soda and water included.
Proceed to benefit Jackson School District students via scholarships and grants. This event is for adults only. RSVP by February 20 at: cheddarup.com/c/comedy-show-12444/items?cart. Questions? Contact secretary@jacksoneducationfoundation.org.
“Voice Of Sinatra” Hearts Of Mercy Fundraiser
BARNEGAT – Join a fun night for a great cause! “Voice of Sinatra” will be on February 22 at 6 p.m. at the Barnegat American Legion, 499 N Main Street, Barnegat. Sean Hanlon, who is the “voice of Sinatra” will be the featured entertainer. In addition, they will be serving a spaghetti and meatballs dinner.
All proceeds will benefit Hearts of Mercy, a non-profit organization that provides tutoring, mentoring, art classes, summer and sports camps throughout the academic school year to the underserved children in Southern Ocean County.
For more information, visit hearts-ofmercy.org.
“Bags For Badges” Cornhole Tournament
JACKSON – “Bags For Badges” Cornhole Tournament will be on April 12 at the AMVets Post 2, 1290 Toms River Road, Jackson.
Three-game round robin. 50/50 and raffles. Cost is $100 per team. Registration at 11
a.m. Bags fly at 12 p.m. Proceeds to help fund Team Jackson Police Department for the annual Police Unity Tour.
RSVP and any questions contact P.O. David DeJesus at 732-614-0204 or daviddejesus1218@gmail.com.
OCC Accounting Students To Offer Free Tax Return Services
TOMS RIVER – As the 2025 tax season approaches, Ocean County College is offering a new program to assist qualified individuals in the community with preparing and filing their tax returns. Beginning on February 3, accounting students trained and certified by the IRS will prepare income tax returns for free through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, available to underserved populations including the elderly, those who don’t speak English, or those with modest incomes.
VITA services are not only free, they are a reliable and trusted source for preparing tax returns. Student volunteers receive training in tax law and tax software that meets or exceeds IRS standards, preparing them to assist taxpayers with filing their tax returns while maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of taxpayer information. In addition to requiring volunteers to certify their knowledge of the tax laws, the IRS also requires a quality review check for every return prepared at a VITA site prior to filing.
The IRS has been offering the VITA program through partner sites for more than 50 years, with millions of federal and state returns prepared by volunteers each filing season.
OCC President Pamela Monaco learned of the program last year and brought it to the attention of OCC’s accounting faculty, Stephanie Kroeger and Jim Hadley, who fully embraced the idea.
“They waited for the grant application period to open, did all the paperwork, and then brought the good news that we were selected,” explained Dr. Monaco. “This is a wonderful approach to serve our various constituencies while providing students the opportunity to practice their skills as they give back to others. I am particularly
delighted that Professors Kroeger and Hadley reached out to students in the accounting program at Kean and will include them in this good work. It is a lot of work for our faculty, but they did not hesitate to introduce this benefit to both students and Ocean County.”
Kroeger also serves as the program’s site coordinator. “Having a VITA center on campus not only helps our community, but it also offers students hands-on experience in the accounting profession that they might not get elsewhere,” she said. “They learn to interact with taxpayers in a professional setting and prepare tax returns - valuable skills for any business professional. I’m excited for community members to see how talented, professional, and capable our students are at OCC.”
Kristopher Rose, an OCC graduate currently attending Kean, welcomes the opportunity to gain valuable skills and work experience while providing a service that helps others. “Being able to volunteer for the VITA program will allow me much-needed experience in the accounting field,” said Rose. “The biggest benefit for me, though, is contributing my time to my community. I have never been in a position to volunteer before and I look forward to helping people receive free tax preparation.”
VITA at Ocean County College will be open February 3 through April 15 on the college’s main campus in Toms River in the Hovnanian Health Sciences Building (Building #102), Room #103. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday, 2 to 6 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (The site will be closed for President’s Day on 2/17/25.)
For more information, contact Stephanie Kroeger at VITA@ocean.edu or visit go.ocean. edu/VITA.
Follow The Great Migration
JACKSON – The 20th Century movement by African Americans across America set in motion dramatic changes that are now fundamental to our way of life. Join storyteller Michelle Washington Wilson for “Food and Folks of the Great Migration – A Black History Month Celebration” at the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch, 3 p.m. on February 15. The Great Migration encompasses the journeys of African Americans from rural southern communities to cities and towns in the north and west. The first surge, from the end of Reconstruction through 1940, produced cultural breakthroughs such as the Harlem Renaissance. The second, from 1950 to 1970, propelled the Civil Rights movement forward to federal law.
Michelle’s engaging narrative illustrates the courage, determination and sometimes outright craftiness in uprooting lives to arrive in new locales with no guarantees of welcome. In addition to
the history and tales, Michelle will share sample recipes of foods that the travelers ate on the way, unable to dine at their leisure due to onerous segregation policies. It’s one of Michelle’s favorite programs because she shares the story of her own family and the circumstances that brought them to South Jersey.
The Newtonville storyteller, teaching artist and folklorist has earned more than 100 public speaking awards in more than 30 years of capturing the spirit of African American life throughout North America and the Caribbean. A member of the New Jersey Storytelling Network and the National Association of Black Storytellers, she offers workshops for foundations and other professional groups. Register at tinyurl.com/OclJaBHM to attend this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, or call 732-928-4400. See the full schedule of Library programs in the online Calendar of Events.
To say it’s been a cold winter would be an understatement. However, spring will be here on March 20th and WE CAN’T WAIT! Recently, photographer Brian Lundy took this stunning shot of Lake Horicon – frozen! Want to see your pics in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!
St. Patrick’s Day Dinner
JACKSON – The Jackson VFW Post 4703 is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner on March 8 from 3 to 7 p.m.
Cost is $15 for adults, $8 for kids 12 and
under, and free for veterans. First come first served. All to-go meals are $17. Meal includes corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, soda bread, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Around the JerSey Shore
Don’t Let Balloons Float Up And Take Down Power This Valentine’s Day
NEW JERSEY – As we celebrate Valentine’s Day this week, FirstEnergy Corp. is reminding customers to handle helium-filled foil balloons safely to keep power flowing this season and year-round. Foil balloons cause power outages when released outdoors because their metallic coating conducts electricity and poses a risk to the electric system.
A video discussing the hazards posed by foil balloons is available on FirstEnergy’s YouTube channel and media can download soundbites on Dropbox.
February typically marks the onset of an increase in outages caused by metallic balloons, as they float off from Valentine’s Day gifts. Last year, foil balloons were to blame for 109 power outages across FirstEnergy’s service area:
• The Illuminating Company – 13 balloon-related outages
• Ohio Edison – 18 balloon-related outages
• Toledo Edison – 9 balloon-related outages
• Met-Ed – 18 balloon-related outages
• Penelec – 8 balloon-related outages
• Penn Power – 1 balloon-related outage
• West Penn Power – 12 balloon-related outages
• Mon Power – 3 balloon-related outages
• Potomac Edison – 5 balloon-related outages
• JCP&L – 22 balloon-related outages
Lisa Rouse, Director of Distribution System Operations at FirstEnergy: “While our community outreach has helped reduce balloon-related outages from previous years, people of all ages can help keep the lights on
in our local communities by understanding the steps to take to eliminate the dangers posed by foil balloons.”
To help ensure holidays and celebrations are enjoyed responsibly, it is important to keep these safety tips in mind:
• Use caution and avoid celebrating with metallic balloons near overhead electric lines.
• Securely tie helium-filled metallic balloons to a weight that is heavy enough to prevent them from floating away. Do not remove the weight until the balloons are deflated.
• Puncture and deflate metallic balloons once they are no longer in use. Never release them into the sky.
• Never attempt to retrieve any type of balloon, kite or toy that becomes caught in a power line. Leave it alone and immediately call FirstEn-
Job And Resource Fair
TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Achievement Center and Waters & Sims Employment Services will be having a job and resource fair at Ocean County College
on March 5 from 3 to 7 p.m.
This event presents an incredible opportunity for job seekers to connect with leading companies, organizations and
not-for-profits to explore a wide range of career options and resources.
It’s best if you prepare your resume ahead of time, dress professionally, and bring
ergy at 888-544-4877 to report the problem.
• Stay far away from a downed or low-hanging power line. Always assume downed lines are energized and dangerous. Report them ASAP by calling 911.
FirstEnergy is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its electric distribution companies form one of the nation’s largest investor-owned electric systems, serving more than six million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company’s transmission subsidiaries operate more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy online at firstenergycorp.com.
your true self to impress protentional employers.
Email achievementcenter@ocean.edu for more information. Register on Eventbrite.
Tired of living with painful bunions? The team at Affilliated Foot & Ankle wants you to know about LAPIPLASTY, a revolutionary solution to your problem.
Lapiplasty addresses the root cause: the unstable joint that leads to the deformity.
● 3D Correction: Lapiplasty technology is designed to correct the entire bone, restoring it to its normal alignment. This comprehensive approach ensures a long-lasting result.
● Joint Stabilization: By securing the unstable joint, Lapiplasty addresses the underlying cause of bunions, reducing the risk of recurrence.
● High Success Rates: Studies have shown that Lapiplasty maintains 3D correction in 97-99% of patients at 13 and 17 months follow-up.
● Minimal Recurrence: The procedure’s focus on addressing the root cause helps to prevent the return of bunions.
● Faster Recovery: Many patients are able to return to walking in a boot within 2 weeks of the procedure.
Presented By:
Dr. Izzy’s
Sound News
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!
School District In Need Of Transportation Aides
JACKSON – The Jackson School District has a serious need for Transportation Aides for the coming year. Please share this information with anyone who might be interested in earning $18.50 per hour with
flexible hours while helping students! HS Diploma or GED and criminal background check required.
See the job posting and job description to apply ASAP! Visit jacksonsd.org.
The Yolk Is
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
No Joke:
Egg-Citing Facts About The Ultimate Superfood
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Egg yolks have been unfairly demonized for years. Some fear their cholesterol content, while others, especially those on keto or carnivore diets, swear by them. Let’s crack open the truth about this nutrient powerhouse.
First of all, eggshell color (white or brown) doesn’t affect taste or nutrition, it just depends on the breed of the hen! And maybe you’ve wondered if you’re eating a baby chicken when you eat an egg. Nope! You’re eating an unfertilized egg. Hens lay eggs whether or not a rooster is around, so eggs sold in stores that were never fertilized and will never develop into a chick.
Egg whites are praised for being low-calorie and high in protein (about 3.6 grams per large egg white). But yolks carry the real magic. They’re packed with essential vitamins like A, D, E, K, B12, selenium, and choline. A single yolk has 2.7 grams of protein, 4.5 grams of healthy fats, and about 55 calories. One large egg has just 70 calories but delivers a solid punch of nutrition. That’s what I call efficiency! Are you worried about cholesterol? Many people avoid eggs due to this fear. Egg yolks contain about 186 mg of cholesterol, but the good news is that research proves that this cholesterol has little impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people. The real culprits? Processed foods (like sugary cereals and fast food), trans fats (found in margarine and fried snacks), and excessive saturated fats (from heavily processed meats like hot dogs) are the real culprits, not eggs!
Studies confirm that an egg a day is just fine. And if you’re on keto or carnivore diets, those healthy fats in yolks improve satiety, keep you energized, and allow you to burn fat efficiently.
Let’s discuss the drug mugging effect, something I wrote the book on. Statins, commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol, like atorvastatin can strip your body of key nutrients, many of which are found in egg yolks! These drugs deplete CoQ10 (essential for energy and heart health) and vitamin K2 (needed for proper calcium absorption). Over time, statin medications may lead to side effects due to the nutrient depletion of these things. You could develop hypothyroidism, depression, chronic fatigue, muscle cramps and even hair loss. If you’re taking statin meds, be mindful of nutrient deficiencies and consider supplementation in addition to your prescription.
By the way, eggs aren’t vegan, but they fit well into vegetarian diets, especially for those who need vitamin B12 and choline, which are hard to get from plant-based sources.
Egg allergies are uncommon, affecting about 2 percent of children and even fewer adults. Most reactions come from egg white proteins, though some people react to yolks. While cholesterol concerns persist, the evidence shows that eggs can be part of a balanced, healthy diet. If you’re on statins, be extra mindful of nutrient depletion. If you’re interested in a deeper dive into this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comprehensive blog on my website at suzycohen.com
(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.
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Choosing The Right Automobile Insurance Will Protect Your Family & Assets
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
In 1998, the State of New Jersey adopted the Automobile Insurance Cost Reduction Act (AICRA) to reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing the benefits available to persons who are injured in automobile accidents. This means less coverage to pay for medical treatment and less rights to recover monetary damages from careless drivers who injure your family. Protect yourself. Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. The failure to carry automobile insurance may be punishable by imprisonment.
When purchasing automobile insurance, you have two choices; you are required to select either a Basic Policy or a Standard Policy. We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.
The Basic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in several areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries. The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else. The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets. We recommend that you purchase a Standard Policy. A Standard Policy provides the best insurance coverage to protect your assets if you are sued and to provide compensation to you and your family if you/
they are injured.
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
The Standard Policy does provide medical expense benefits (PIP) coverage which includes medical expenses up to $250,000.00 per person per accident. The Standard Policy also provides you with Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM Benefits), so if you are injured by someone who does not have automobile insurance, is insured under a Basic Policy or leaves the scene of the collision then you and your family are covered for your losses.
When you purchase the Standard Policy you must elect a “tort option” that will determine your right to make a claim. You must select either the “limitation on lawsuit option” or the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” If you purchase the Basic Policy then you are assigned the “limitation on lawsuit option.” We recommend that you choose the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” Ask your insurance representative what is the actual dollar amount that your overall premium will increase if you elect the “no limitation on lawsuit option.”
By choosing the “limitation on lawsuit option” you are limiting you legal right to make a claim for monetary damages unless you sustain one of the following injuries: Death, Dismemberment; Significant scarring or disfigurement; Displaced Fractures; Loss of Fetus or a Permanent Injury that can been diagnosed by credible, objective medical testing.
Selecting the correct insurance coverage is extremely important when it comes to protecting your family and personal assets.
Call the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates 732-505-1212 for a free evaluation of your automobile insurance policy.
MAR. 22-24 3 DAY WASHINGTON D.C. $559 ENJOY A SPRING WEEKEND DURING CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON FEATURING U.S. CAPITOL TOUR, LINCOLN, VIETNAM AND KOREAN WAR MEMORIALS; MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM, AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM, ARLINGTON CEMETARY AND MUCH MORE! INCLUDES 2 NTS. HOTEL, 2 BREAKFASTS, 1 UPSCALE STEAK DINNER. BEST WAY OF VISITING D.C.! SAT. MAY 3 AMISH COUNTRY LANCASTER, PA. INCLUDES LUNCH. $98
THURS. MAY 8 “NOAH” SIGHT & SOUND THEATER $175 LANCASTER, PA. INCLUDES LUNCH AT SHADY MAPLE SMORGASBORD.
SUN. JUNE 29 N.Y. YANKEES VS. A’s MAIN LEVEL SEATS. $149
SUN. JULY 20 N.Y. METS VS. REDS @CITI FIELD. $155
Authors Wanted For Book Show
TOMS RIVER - Authors are wanted for the Toms River Book Show, where they will be able to meet future fans and sell their books. It will take place from 6-9 p.m. on June 6 in the Toms River Artist Community gallery located at 40 Main Street (Route 9) in downtown Toms River.
The show takes place during one of the very well attended Downtown Night Out events. A section of Washington Street from Main Street
to Hooper Avenue is closed to vehicles. People eat outside, enjoying live music and ambiance. Hundreds of people come from miles around. Interested authors will pay $50 for the space. The event is a fundraiser for the Toms River Education Foundation which helps provide extracurricular activities to enrich local children.
Please read more about it at facebook.com/ TomsRiverBookShow
The Jackson Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!
JULY. 7-9 3 DAY WEST VIRGINIA “The Mountain State” $599 ENJOY 2 NTS. IN YOUR OWN LOG CABIN SURROUNDED BY AWESOME MOUNTAIN SCENERY. INCLUDES 3 COOK OUT MEALS PLUS A LIVE MUSIC AND DINNER SHOW.
SEPT. 7-10 4 DAY CAPE COD & NANTUCKET ISLAND $949 GUIDED TOURS OF HYANNIS, PROVINCETOWN, NANTUCKET ISLAND . PLUS VISIT THE HISTORIC WHALING VILLAGE OF NEW BEDFORD. INCLUDES 3 NTS. HOTEL, 6 MEALS , ATTRACTION ADMISSIONS. OUTSTANDING END OF SUMMER GETAWAY.
SEPT. 28-OCT. 1 4 DAY NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA $799. GUIDED NIAGARA AREA TOURS FEATURING THE FALLS, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, WINERY TOUR AND TASTINGS, AND MUCH MORE. INCLUDES 3 NTS. HOTEL, 5 MEALS.
This Giant Crustacean Can Have A Lifespan Of 100 Years
By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
An omnivore, the Japanese spider crab can be found on the Pacific side of Taiwan and Japan. A long lifespan with a body weighing approximately 42 pounds, they thrive in chilly waters of about 50 degrees. Their predators are large fish, octopuses and stingrays.
Since the Japanese spider crab enjoys animals and plants, they do not hunt, but instead they scavenge and scour along the ocean floor as deep as 2,000 feet. Should they encounter live fish, they may also
consume them. They make their home in holes and pits at the bottom of the ocean. This marine crab can look intimidating with their spiky appearance; however, they are calm and move slowly. Most of their time is spent crawling around, scavenging for food. The long legs of this species contain meat which is consumed by humans and enjoyed by many Japanese people. To conserve their numbers, fishing is prohibited during breeding season. Their long legs span wider than the length of two grown men (approximately 12 feet) and are covered in small spikes. These spikes are also known as tubercles. During their lifetime their legs
may be torn off when caught by predators or nets. A molting cycle stimulates these limbs to regrow.
The male is usually larger than the female. They have larger claws, which are used to fend off opposing crabs and predators. Mating and spawning occur in shallower waters, normally between the months of January and April. Females will lay up to one and a half million eggs at a time. While that sounds like a lot, only a few will survive. Eggs will hatch in approximately 10 days.
The Japanese spider crab is proposed to have the longest lifespan of any crab with
a survival of up to 100 years. Commonly known crabs, like king and snow crabs, are only known to live between 10 to 30 years. The benefits of these crabs to marine ecosystems are that they clean up the sea bottom.
I gathered information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.
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.
Double Niche For Sale - Silverton Memorial Park, Toms River. Highly sought after location. Building 1; Sanctuary Wall A; Level 2. Building is Climate Controlled with Chapel for services and prayers. Secured Key Entry. Below market value - $5200. Call Angelo at 908-433-1390. (11)
Europian Woman - Serious, honest, faithful; looking for neat man 65-75 years old. No long hair, no beard, with good morals for relationship. We can build our relationship with our love, trust, respect. 732-551-7051. (10)
Items Wanted
$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n)
COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY
Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)
CASH, 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)
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)
Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
Advertise in the main sections of Micromedia’s weekly newspapers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Our skilled team of account executives can work with any budget. Call 732-657-7344 ext. 206 for more information.
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring full time Cooks. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (9)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time Maintenance worker. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (13)
CLASSIFIEDS
Services Help Wanted
Machinist Wanted 1st/2nd Class for Lakewood Machine Shop - 6 - 12 hrs./week. Days only. 732-367-3100, ext. 107. (8)
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
Handyman Solutions - Affordable prices that are budget friendly. All phases of Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Laminate Flooring • Painting • Drywall • Doors • Windows • Siding • Hand and Vinyl Railings • Decks • Minor Plumbing/Electrical and more. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030 (50)
INCOME TAX ACCOUNTANTSPersonal and small business tax returns. Over 30 years of experience. Reasonable fees. Mention this ad and get $20 off. Call for an appointment. 732-270-6505. (11)
Retired Nurse LLC - Licensed and insured. Available for companion, assist for adult's care. Reasonable rates in Monmouth County 732-209-1837. (8)
Cleaning Service - Too tired or can't be bothered. Call Donna 732-3305916. Rentals, overturns, construction and residential. Insured and bonded. (9)
International Folk Dance Teacher Available - Beginners classes for adults/youngsters. Also chair-dance for seniors or developmentally disabled. Text 929-465-9773 for info. (7)
Avon Sales - Eyeliner, eye shadow, perfume, men's cologne. Call for a brochure 732-330-4189 or 848287-3944. If you are interested in selling Avon contact 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944. (t/n)
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n)
"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)
ANGEL APPLIANCE REPAIR732-403-6975. 50+ years serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Senior owned and operated. INSURED, RELIABLE AND HONEST. (47)
APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7)
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)
Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)
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)
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)
Monmouth & Ocean MOBILE NOTARY - I come to you. Text or email for rates and availabilty 732-887-6408, Rhansen0114@gmail.com. (13)
DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)
Senior Campanion CaregiverRetired RN. Meal prep, transport to appointments, shopping, showering, light housekeeping. Contact Chris 845-430-1853. (48)
CAR SERVICE - Specializing in Newark and Atlantic City Airports, Point Pleasant and Bay Head Train Station. Call Kevin 727-396-7820. (8)
THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (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)
Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)
MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting, roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwork, all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (4)
CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (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)
• M ail this form to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. OR
• Go to jerseyshoreonline.com, click classifieds, fill out the form and pay by credit card. OR
• Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI.
1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:
Auto For Sale
Items For Sale
Items Wanted
Help Wanted
Services
For Rent
Real Estate
Other
2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.
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:
*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks. • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales
4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:
Cardholder Signature:
Print Name:
Billing Address:
If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203. Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) 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 = $ Total = $
Continued From Page 2
are among the most sought-after programs at OCVTS. To ensure fair access to these popular courses, the school recently replaced its traditional waiting list with a computerized lottery system for student selection.
The Cosmetology program includes the science behind working in the industry and a focus on learning tools. Students gain handson experience in a working clinic, where they practice on each other and offer select services for a nominal fee. At 500 hours, they can do some work in a salon. They are required to complete 1,200 hours of instruction in cosmetology and hairstyling before they can sit for the state licensing exam.
Kristian Desjardins brings 25 years of experience to OCVTS as one of its two instructors in the Electrical Trades program. He offered some insight into how OCVTS works with high school students throughout Ocean County.
“For the high school students, it’s a shared time program with their regular districts,” he explained. “They spend half the day here,
starting in their junior year.”
“The two-year program gets everybody outside working, with the two years counting as the first year of their apprenticeship program,” continued Desjardins. “They’ll come out of high school and go directly into the second-year apprenticeship while working in the school to finish their four-year apprenticeship.”
Desjardins also discussed the post-secondary program and the high demand for electrical training, noting the upcoming addition of a third electrical program in Jackson. He further explained how the program gives students a head start on the five years of field experience and four-year apprenticeship required to become a licensed electrician.
Sparks fly in the welding shop, where students learn the art and science of joining metals.
Khyiah Santana, a post-secondary student in the welding program, shared her inspiration.
“My dad was a civil engineer and an OSHA inspector on many job sites, and looking at him got me interested in construction all together,” she said. “I’m a hands-on person. Welding is one of the jobs really wanted in
our society right now, making it the right choice for me.”
Santana also spoke about the camaraderie in the field. “I think the community behind it of welders is a very, very strong one…and the work that you create is long-lasting and permanent, and it will definitely get you recognized for your hard work.”
OCVTS has the unique distinction of offering a Marine Service Technology program, which teaches students how to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot marine engines and equipment. Students learn the theory and practice of boating safety, fiberglass construction, and electrical systems.
Donny Nain, a Waretown resident and junior at Southern Regional High School, said the program combines his love of the water and using his mechanical skills.
“I’ve always liked working on things,” Nain said. “And I like being on the water. This is the perfect opportunity to mix the two.”
Instructor Rob Berenwick noted the program’s expansion due to high demand passed on to him by the Marine Trades Association of New Jersey. “They said they need people.”
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
A World Of Possibilities
OCVTS offers shared-time and adult programs across its six campuses, including Grunin Performing Arts & Ocean County College Campus. Many programs offer opportunities for students to earn advanced credits at colleges and technical schools. The school also provides pre-vocational programs for students with Individualized Education Programs and accelerated programs for graduating seniors and adults in fields like Culinary Arts and Automotive Technology.
Two new programs are also offered in Bricklayer, Allied Craftworker & Masonry, and Legal Studies and Paralegal Practice. To learn more about OCVTS, visit ocvts.org
“The turnout at this year’s open house truly reflects the growing interest and recognition of the value our career and technical education programs offer at Ocean County Vocational Technical School, especially as we celebrate CTE Month,” said Dr. Michael B. Maschi, OCVTS Assistant Superintendent. “We’re proud to provide students with the skills and hands-on experience they need to excel in their careers and contribute to the workforce.”
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
py option
25 (Austen)
26 Plane reservation
28 Nutritional amt.
32 Ragœ rival
34 Cut to fit
35 Device for cord cutters
*Planet in the Super Mario Galaxy
Tree whose seeds yield an organic insecticide
Small digit
Cox of “Orange Is the New Black”
__ ball
Places to return library materials, and a hint to how the authors in four Down clues help complete the answers to the starred clues
Places where things often end on a high note?
__ water 4 How some mixtapes are really stored
“Send me!”
Once called
Harington of “Game of Thrones”
“Ugh, why bother?”
“Later!”
Close chums, for short
14 “I approve”
16 (Robinson)
19 Close in theaters
22 Nuclear plant
23 Solos in 2-Down
24 Calming aromathera-
37 Floored
38 (Nabokov)
41 Triumphant cry in a dice game
44 Rattle
47 Neb. neighbor
48 Foreign correspondent?
50 (Donoghue)
51 Two-time Olympic soccer gold medalist Carli __
53 Extreme clutter
56 Feb. 14
57 “The Marvelous __ Maisel”
58 Just peachy 59 “Give it a go!” 60 Soap unit 61 Small digit
(c)2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): There is no reason to waste time on wishing for what could have or should have happened. If you are too focused on what you’re looking for you might overlook what is actually there. Consider focusing on what is within reach and tangible.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Whether you are mesmerized or mystified by someone or something, this might not be the time to make a firm commitment of your time or emotions. You could be blind to someone’s faults or afraid to ask appropriate questions to make a decision.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Explore different approaches. You might encounter complex social situations. Keep in mind that pulling one way could make things worse, while pulling another way might ease the tension. Be prepared to shift your strategy when needed.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): You may be enthusiastic about group gatherings. However, don’t let small irritations derail you, they could be unimportant or even deliberate distractions that keep you from addressing crucial issues concerning important matters.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Remain grounded even though you may be lifted upwards by a new romance or idea. You could get caught up in wishful thinking and refuse to see the truth as the week unfolds. Ask yourself if you are escaping reality or just taking a break.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You might find yourself grappling with communication issues for a day or two. There could be a hefty risk of not conveying your true intentions or misunderstanding others, leading to confusion. Being direct and clear may help avoid conflicts.
FOR THE WEEK OF FEB 15 - FEB 21 BY
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
JERALDINE SAUNDERS
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Go with your gut. Be cautious if someone tries to persuade you that the opposite of what’s true is a fact. Money might sound sweet in your pocket, but that tune could quickly fade if you give in to an uncertain investment or questionable purchase.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t spend your precious wishes on something that might prove to be less than ideal. You could find yourself stuck in place, or treading on fragile ground if you follow the guidance of a partner or loved one without asking questions.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your inbox might overflow with perplexing messages, or you could be bombarded with ads. Instead of doomscrolling on social media, consider investing in yourself by delving into an interesting topic or catching up on tasks.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): What you expect to happen isn’t always what happens. An accidentally burned experimental sample led to the rubber in raincoats and even modern tires. Keep your eye pealed for the lucky or unexpected accident that could change your life.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may be distracted by friends or social activities as the week begins. A yearning for more romance in your life could lead to your head being in the clouds. You might need to take a step back to prevent overindulging in wishful thinking.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Inhale the good and exhale the bad. You could be overly sensitive to criticism or thrown off by a small social faux pas but don’t let it get to you. Handling details and putting things in order might be your superpower today and tomorrow.
WE
CAN HONESTLY SAY THIS SWEET TREAT WAS MADE WITH LOVE
By America’s Test Kitchen
This no-bake dessert is typically made by layering a mixture of instant vanilla pudding and Cool Whip between graham crackers and topping it with chocolate frosting. We loved the convenience of these store-bought items, but our enthusiasm waned when confronted by their flavor. With a couple of easy techniques (a quick stovetop pudding, whipped cream, and a microwave-and-stir glaze) and very little active time, we produced a from-scratch version that easily trumped its inspiration.
CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE
Serves 15
1 1/4 cups sugar
6 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
5 cups whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces
5 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons water
1 1/4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
2 3/4 cups heavy cream, chilled
14 ounces graham crackers
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
5 tablespoons light corn syrup
1. Combine sugar, cornstarch and salt in a large saucepan. Whisk milk into sugar mixture until smooth and bring to boil, scraping bottom with rubber spatula, over medium-high heat. Immediately reduce heat to medium-low and cook, continuing to scrape bottom, until thickened and large bubbles appear on surface, 4
to 6 minutes. Off heat, whisk in butter and vanilla. Transfer pudding to a large bowl and place plastic wrap directly on the surface of pudding. Refrigerate until cool, about 2 hours.
2. Stir water and gelatin together in a bowl and let sit until gelatin softens, about 5 minutes. Microwave until mixture is bubbling around edges and gelatin dissolves, 15 to 30 seconds. Using a stand mixer fitted with whisk, whip 2 cups cream on medium-low speed until foamy, about 1 minute. Increase speed to high and whip until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes. Add gelatin mixture and whip until stiff peaks form, about 1 minute.
3. Whisk one-third whipped cream into chilled pudding, then gently fold in remaining whipped cream, 1 scoop at a time, until combined. Cover bottom of a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with a layer of graham crackers, breaking crackers as necessary to line bottom of pan. Top with half of pudding-whipped cream mixture (about 5 1/2 cups) and another layer of graham crackers. Repeat with remaining pudding-whipped cream mixture and remaining graham crackers.
4. Microwave chocolate chips, remaining 3/4 cup cream, and corn syrup in a bowl, stirring occasionally, until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Cool glaze to room temperature, about 10 minutes. Cover graham crackers with glaze and refrigerate cake for 6 to 24 hours. Serve.
RECIPE NOTE: Eclair cake can be refrigerated for up to two days.
