2025-03-22 - The Jackson Times

Police Officer’s Legacy Continues On

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON –

He may have died more than 20 years ago, but Robert “Robbie” Ventura’s legacy continues to live on. Family, friends, his brothers and sisters in blue and many others came out to remember him during a street naming ceremony. The highway sign bearing his name was unveiled and several presentations were given to his widow, his daughter and son during the morning event held near the Jackson Township Justice Complex on West Veterans Highway.

Kevin Chesney, a 30-year veteran of the township police department served as Ventura’s training officer. He told The Jackson Times, “I was his field training officer but I knew him beforehand with the fire department and we hung out. I was happy when he decided to become a cop and he fit right in.”

Officer Andrew Cheney (L) joined Dillon, Ashley and Jennifer Ventura at the street renaming ceremony celebrating the late Robert “Robbie” Ventura.

Future Of Historic Building Discussed

31 Main Street, which has a lot of history, was the subject of a special workshop meeting concerning its future use.

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED – The Township Committee held a special meeting to hear input from the public to consider the sale of and potential uses for a historic Main Street property.

Chesney described Ventura saying, “he was definitely a peo -

ple pleaser, he was wanted to make people happy and do things right. He was one of those people who you had to ask if he was mad. If I’m mad you know it but Robbie was kind of laid back and subdued and his kids were young at the time but we have always made his family, our family. Robbie’s legacy is still going to live on here and that is the important thing now because there is not many us left who worked with Robbie and were around when Robbie passed.”

(Officer’s Legacy - See Page 5)

Chefs’ Night Out Puts OCVTS On The Menu For Success

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Members of the Ocean County Vocational Technical School culinary program gather during the 28th Annual International Chefs’ Night Out and Gift Auction held at the RWJBarnabas Health

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY – Chefs’ Night

Out featured delicious food and drink samplings from 60 local restaurants and vendors. With a 50/50 raffle valued at $10,000 and a gift auction, it served as the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Ocean County Foundation for Vocational Technical Education.

OCVTS culinary students were out in force with several tables of dessert delicacies. Students Damien Romeo

(Chefs’ Night Out - See Page 17)

Over the years, there have been many uses for 31 Main Street (Block 19, Lot 13), including a bank, a small library, the town hall and a welcome center.

Official action was not taken during this session of the Township Committee but many views were voiced as residents were invited and encouraged to partake in the featured question-and-answer segment.

Ocean County Administrator Mike Fiore made a

(Historic Building - See Page 4)

Congressman Faces Criticism At Rally

By Bob Vosseller

JERSEY SHORE – Crowds protested recent actions by the Trump administration, and they wanted to know where their congressman stands on the issues.

A head count from the two recent rallies noted more than 70 people, most of whom carried signs in front of Toms River Town Hall on Washington Street where Congressman Chris Smith (R-4th) has a district office. The second rally was held this week.

The protestors chanted slogans and spoke in opposition toward President Donald Trump’s policies concerning immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts of federal employees, removing medical insurance programs to U.S. citizens and cutting foreign aid plus the administration’s recent actions in dropping support to the Ukraine. The rallies were not organized by any one group but by area residents and members

(Criticism - See Page 14)

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Arena in Toms River.

Historic Building:

Continued From Page 1

presentation regarding potential acquisition of the building that included future utilization of the property by Ocean County as a satellite office that would showcase various services to the public.

“In the last several months we’ve been talking about 31 Main Street and one of the options presented to us was possibly working with the county to bring one of their satellite offices here to Plumsted,” Mayor Robert Bowen said at the start of the meeting.

Previously Committeeman James Hagelstein had opened a dialogue with Ocean County officials regarding this property that focused on providing assorted county services in the reconditioned premises of that site.

The mayor said, “I know we are looking for a significant use for 31.”

Committeeman Hagelstein elaborated saying a preliminary discussion with county officials “led into some of the financial woes we have in our township such as the sewer bills that we all know are going up and some of the other issues of increased costs that could lead to people not being able to afford things.”

He also noted the doubling of the town’s senior population which would make an office for county senior services beneficial.

“This led to discussion of what kind of services could the county bring here and maybe we could bring it to a county satellite building,” Hagelstein added.

School Superintendent David Ytreboe’s presence was also noted by Mayor Bowen. The mayor said the township also works with

Catholic Charities “who work with us on emergency housing, the (New Egypt) American Legion have been key in highlighting veteran services and mental health services, the school district obviously works with families and a variety of services our Municipal Drug and Alcohol Alliance have been doing a great job.”

He noted these agencies were the front-line representatives who are involved in working with the services provided by Ocean County within the township.

Fiore said, “the concept of this project started around November to offer some of our services to your community that would be closer to what you have right now.” He noted a recent tour of the facility that he had with township officials.

“We don’t have any kind of agreement. The township hasn’t authorized any contract. This is a conceptual idea. I don’t want anyone to think that this is a done deal… These are discussions to find out what you need in the community. We want to make sure your tax dollars are spent wisely,” he added.

Fiore noted the model of neighboring Manchester Township where office space is shared “and on different days we come in. We have veterans and senior services that come in and the County Clerk comes in and we help out with things like passports and a variety of different services.”

“We have our County Connection would come in to talk about different types of services and different departments could come in,” he added.

The services could also include:

• Consumer Affairs

• Senior Services

• Surrogate Services

• Veterans services & job assistance

• Notary

• Health screening & services

• Ocean County College calendar of events

• Ocean County College programs

• Ocean County Library services

• Passport applications

• Parks and Recreation programs

• Government directories

• Ocean Ride schedules

• Cell phone recycling

• Safety information

The utilization of a portion of the renovated building to meet the need for a NJ Code Blue Warming Center in the area was also mentioned. This is a program that provides temporary, emergency shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness during extreme cold weather conditions, from November through March.

The Ocean County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) issues a Code Blue Alert when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures below 25°F or 32°F with precipitation anticipated.

The mayor referenced comment submission forms that were made available at the workshop for those who wished to remain anonymous and for those who were unable to attend.

The comment forms are posted online on the township website Plumsted.org and from the clerk’s office.

Mayor Bowen noted that the night’s session was “From now until our meeting in April we would like to hear from you.”

Resident Laura Jameson said “I feel sorry for whatever buyer is out there hanging on a

thread thinking his offer is being considered, not to the degree that this is being considered. Two words, right time and right place and economically feasible. What other properties have you considered in Plumsted or was it the low price of the foreclosure that brought you here?”

“We were unaware of the situation at the time we were originally invited to come out and see the building. At that time we were told it was in the middle of a foreclosure or sale but that isn’t why we came out here,” Fiore said.

He noted that anytime the County government purchases a property whether it be through the county’s natural lands trust or through their budget “we have to do our own appraisal and there is a very small opportunity that we can pay anything different from what that appraisal says. It was more of an opportunity for services.”

A county staff member responded to a question of Code Blue staffing saying it was difficult to talk about staffing for Code Blue until you know what space is available. If you have a non-profit coming in, there is a site coordinator who would determine what was feasible economically “and all of them are all a little different. It all depends on what your population looks like. If the township ends up operating the Code Blue, we would of course work with them.”

Ann Funck the head of the municipal alliance said she was in favor of the idea of the county coming in, noting that during last year’s senior health fair when representatives from the county senior service office came out, “it was such a help. They also need those services without having to go all the way to Toms River for them as many have problems with transportation.”

Officer’s Legacy:

Continued From Page 1

The officer’s death on March 18, 2001 was a subject that brought tears to the eyes of former Police Officer Andrew Chesney who was one of five speakers during the ceremony. “I was a police sergeant the night that he was killed. We always would joke around. After the briefing, Robbie being the junior guy, he loaded up his car and made the coffee run.”

“I was on the phone with a resident and Robbie had delivered my coffee and he was pacing as if he wanted to tell me something or ask me something and he said ‘I’ll stop back’ and he leaves. Five minutes later we get a first aid call of an infant in respiratory distress in zone II which is on the other side of town. Robbie being Robbie and the personality he is, and a dad of small children, he heads to West Veterans Highway and heads out to help out if needed,” Chesney added.

“Not a minute after that the calls start coming in about a crash, West Veterans and Walter Drive, two vehicles and one possibly being a police car at which point I start sending everybody there and calling badges on the radio and they respond and he is the only one not responding to the radio that night.” he said.

“We took care of what we had to that

night. The family was contacted. The day of Robbie’s funeral I made sure I was the last uniformed officer to see him. I approached the casket and gave him the final salute and I told him, Jackson Township will never forget you or his family.” Chesney said.

“It is being carried on by the young guys (of the police department),” Chesney told The Jackson Times. “I’m on my 30th year, (Investigations Unit Detective) Joe Pante started this (street dedication project). I helped him out as much as I can. The younger generation is going to take this and carry it. They do it with the Unity Tour and we will have this out here and it will keep Robbie close to us.”

Jennifer Ventura shared memories of her late husband with The Jackson Times before the ceremony began stating her husband who served with the Jackson Township Police for two years prior to his death and was also a “member of the volunteer fire department. It was his dream to become a police officer and there was an opportunity to pursue it. He grew up in Jackson. I moved to Jackson around 1992.”

“I have a daughter Ashley and son Dillon. They were very young at the time. Ashley was 4 and Dillon was like 18 months. He liked the community and being a part of things,” Jennifer said.

Ashley Ventura, who is now a police officer herself serving in West Windsor,

remembered being told “I was daddy’s little girl. I know he was super funny. He was the comedy guy, always telling jokes and I love hearing stories from the guys (his fellow police officers) that he was good at making people laugh.”

While the family no longer lives in Jackson, their ties to those in the Jackson Police Department will never end. “When my dad died all these guys just stepped in. They showed up at my prom with a whole parade of police officers and fire trucks and they escorted me to the prom and that is why I decided to join the force. No one is ever left behind. It is truly an extended family and is still going on,” she said.

“It is such a remarkable thing and so very special,” Ashley Ventura added.

Also noted was the presence of a K9 unit dog. “The first K9 dog we’ve had in a while is named Robbie,” Chesney said.

Chief Matthew Kunz said, “There is a native American proverb that tells us we will be known forever by the tracks we leave. My heart is full as this alliance of friends before me - our law enforcement and extended family - has indeed not forgotten our brother Robbie. Through our memory, acts of remembrance (such as) this roadside memorial, his tracks shall forever remain impressed upon the people of Jackson Township.”

Public Safety Director Joseph Candido

The Jackson Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

said, “I was a new officer when Robbie was here. I think I was on for maybe six months and we shared the same car and that night I handed him the keys. What impressed me about Robbie when I met him a few years earlier at the firehouse at a Christmas event was that he wanted to be a police officer. He always wanted to be there for everybody and I got that in a half hour conversation.”

“That tradition hangs on with the men and women of our police agency,” Candido added. “He’s instilled that and it will always be here forever.”

Mayor Michael Reina presented the gift of a street sign to the family prior to the unveiling of the actual street sign. “It is something we thought you would appreciate.”

Jennifer Ventura also received a police remembrance pin from Jackson Police Chaplain Dan Schafer during the ceremony.

Detective Joseph Pante, who coordinated the project that began several years ago, thanked everyone involved in the process of getting the street name approved as well as the signs made and installed. He acknowledged “the Ventura family for their input and helping design the signs so we got it right as well as their patience through the process.”

“This is a wonderful memorial to my husband we really appreciate everything you have all done for us today,” Jennifer Ventura said.

Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

Utility Bills To Skyrocket While Lawmakers Look For The Culprit

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

TRENTON - Last November I wrote here about a legislative hearing I attended that focused on electricity bills, at which I had the opportunity to ask questions of executives from New Jersey’s major power companies. Not to pick on anyone, but I wasn’t overly impressed with the answers I received from them. But another guest certainly got my attention. It was the little-known head of a little-known state agency that actually advocates for our state’s utility customers, who said several things I found informative and useful.

Brian Lipman is the Director of the Division of Rate Counsel, a long title that’s often shortened in conversation to the “ratepayer advocate.” His job is to stand up for people who pay the bills for electricity, natural gas, water and sewer service.

While his testimony was very educational, delving into the details of power supply, transmission and infrastructure, it was most notable to me in how it differed from other testimony I’ve heard. Understandably, most testimony from agency heads, lobbyists and other “insiders” is somewhat deferential, as these professionals usually don’t want to offend the very legislators whom they’re trying to

bring to their side of an issue. Mr. Lipman was just as polite and professional in his presentation as anyone, but he was direct about what his experience had taught him. He faced a panel of legislators and told them state laws that they’ve passed are the first part of the problem.

Fast forward to today, when the news of a 20% hike in electric bills looming for this summer has residents reeling. The legislative leadership has responded by calling hearings “to examine the reasons why residents are facing higher utility bills and to explore legislative solutions.”

Let me save them the trouble by giving them the answer: their policies are the problem. We know that from the hearing that was already held months ago.

More recently, in February, Lipman estimated the increases would add between about $23 and $28 to the bill of an average customer using around 650 kilowatt-hours per month, depending on their utility, according to the New Jersey Monitor.

These hikes are largely due to recent auctions held by our grid operator, PJM. I explained these “capacity market” auctions in my November column, so I won’t go over the complexities of that again. Suffice it to say that there are problems with how the auctions are run, in part because the rules for them are often influenced by the participants themselves, as Lipman said.

The question is what legislators – your elected representatives – can do to help lower power bills, aside from just hectoring PJM. That takes us back to Lipman’s October testimony that legislators and regulators should prioritize increasing electric capacity and limiting mandates on utilities that boost customer bills.

“I think you could look at all the subsidies ratepayers are paying for. Whether it’s for electric vehicles, for solar, I think we need a nuts-to-bolts evaluation and figure out where we can start cutting because ratepayer bills are extremely high,” the Monitor quoted him as saying.

He also said the state should review existing utility projects to determine whether any could be paused as a cost-saving measure.

“We need to be a lot more thoughtful as we’re telling the utilities what they have to do, because we need to remember that every time the utilities do something, they’re going to want to recover whatever that is in ratepayer bills,” he said.

I think that’s a better approach than that suggested by one of the four commissioners on the state Board of Public Utilities, which regulates power companies. He said that, to the extent possible, the board would encourage everyone to really cut back on their energy use.

That’s fine advice at any time, but the onus doesn’t belong on customers to reduce costs. It belongs on the regulators and the elected representatives who have been sent to Trenton to protect ratepayers.

While some lawmakers are writing sternly

worded letters and calling hearings on what we already know, I’ve introduced over a dozen bills to provide relief to utility ratepayers, some based on what I learned in that October hearing. They include energy and weatherization tax breaks for residents, ending rate hikes for utilities’ administrative costs or to cover “losses” from customers conserving energy, repealing an expensive infrastructure program, and requiring review of costly transmission line proposals to make sure they’re necessary.

I look forward to these hearings, even though they’re really just to make lawmakers look busy on the issue. I hope ratepayers will show up and tell lawmakers about their bills. As a committee member, I plan to ask important questions – again, as I did in October – and may talk about my proposals that haven’t even received a vote. Yet we already know from the “ratepayer advocate” that we should start with a hard look at the cost-hiking laws that are already on the books.

The hearings should start and end with a giant mirror facing the committees. And if they don’t call in the “ratepayer advocate” to discuss their own cost-hiking policies, the hearings will be a total sham.

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.

From The Desk Of

Congressman Chris Smith Congressman Appeals To Trump Administration To Redesignate

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, held a congressional hearing on the ongoing religious freedom violations in Nigeria. Expert witnesses joined in Smith’s appeal to Secretary Marco Rubio to redesignate Africa’s most populous nation as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a designation President Trump used in his first term to help persecuted Christians in Nigeria.

“One of our distinguished witnessesBishop Wilfred Anagbe of the diocese of Makurdi, Nigeria - will testify today that ‘Militant Fulani herdsman are terrorists.

Nigeria As A Country Of Particular Concern

They steal and vandalize, they kill and boast about it, they kidnap and rape, and they enjoy total impunity from the elected officials. None of them have been arrested and brought to justice, ‘” Smith said.

“In December 2020, President Trump designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern only to be reversed without justification by Secretary Blinken in November of 2021,” Smith said. “Religious leaders in Nigeria were outraged by Sec. Blinken’s decision.”

Smith - who is the author of the Frank R. Wolf International Religious Freedom Act (P.L. 114-281), which expressed that governments must ultimately be held accountable for the abuses that occur in their territoriessaid “the Government of Nigeria has failed to make progress against religiously motivated persecution of Christians despite religious

freedom being enshrined as an essential human right in its Constitution.”

“Genocide Watch has called Nigeria “a killing field of defenseless Christians,” Smith said. He noted that over 52,000 Christians in Nigeria have reportedly been targeted and killed by Islamist extremists while approximately 34,000 moderate non-Fulani Muslims have been murdered in Islamist attacks, since 2009. The targeted violence has forced about five million Nigerians - mostly Christians - into Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps within Nigeria and in refugee camps at regional and sub-regional borders.

Last year the House Foreign Affairs Committee adopted Smith’s resolution H. Res. 82 urgently calling on the Biden Administration to redesignate Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern. It passed on Feb. 6, 2024 in committee but never came to the House floor.

On March 11, 2025, Smith reintroduced his

legislation which is now H.Res. 220.

“While I strongly believe that President Trump will again designate Nigeria a CPC - and do much more to assist the persecuted church including outreach to Nigerian President Bola Tinuba…I reintroduced the resolution,” Smith said. “Help can’t come fast enough.”

Testifying at the House hearing, entitled “Conflict and Persecution in Nigeria: The Case for a CPC Designation,” were witnesses: Nina Shea, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Religious Freedom at the Hudson Institute; Tony Perkins, Former Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom and now President of Family Research Council; Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Makurdi, Nigeria, and; Oge Onubogu , Director of the Africa Program at The Wilson Center. (Government - See Page 9)

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.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Steve Sweeney Needs To Go Away Now

While this newspaper doesn’t do endorsements, I suppose we could consider this an anti-endorsement.

I speak only for myself and not the newspaper or other staff when I say that Steve Sweeney needs to just get out of politics. He should go get a private sector job making oodles of money and cash in on all those connections I’m sure he has.

Why do I feel so strongly about this?

Sweeney was the architect of S-2, the funding formula that took away tons of state aid from Toms River, Jackson, Lacey, Plumsted, and other schools around here.

As a direct result of this legislation, these districts have been facing a crisis of funding during a time when the economy wasn’t that great to begin with. Everything is getting more expensive and then the state decides to cut millions and millions of dollars from your budget?

Schools closed. Teachers and other staff were fired. And on top of all that, local taxes still went up to make up for the loss.

He’s proud of it, too. In fact, it’s the first thing he talks about if you click on “Issues” on his website.

The fact that he showed up at the Ocean County Democrats’ mini-convention looking for support is mind-boggling. It’s returning to the scene of the crime. Imagine if the guy who robbed your house stopped by your garage sale.

Additionally, he wasn’t that strong of a politician to begin with. He was unseated by Ed Durr, a man with no political history who became famous for being a truck driver that booted an entrenched politician. Durr only lasted one, two-year term in that job. Despite Sweeney being the longest-serving NJ Senate leader, outside of a small pocket of south Jersey, no one knows who he is (65,000 people voted in the election where Durr bested Sweeney).

Mr. Sweeney, with all due respect, go home. You’ve done enough damage.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR!

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

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect 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.

Support For Fighting Overdevelopment

For far too long, residents have been fighting overdevelopment with little to show for it. A second win came in September 2024 when the residents of Victory Road SUCCESSFULLY opposed an over 200,000 sq. ft. warehouse application and the Planning Board denied it. Alas, another win for Howell residents! But, we knew the fight would not end there. As expected, the developer sued, trying to overturn the denial. We call on our Township officials to stay resolved, much like they did in defending the denial of the Monmouth Commerce Center just a few years ago.

I believe there is strength in numbers as our voices become one. I believe in standing steadfast to defend what is just and in so doing, committing to a cause with complete dedication, determination, and utilizing all necessary resources. This is why my team reached out to the Sierra Club for help. The Sierra Club is one of the largest national environmental organizations in the country. As a result, an attorney with the Sierra Club followed the Victory Road case and has now offered to join the fight to help the Planning Board defend their denial. The Sierra Club will only join the litigation in their common defense of the case if the Planning Board welcomes them to do so. Having an environmental organization like this on our side would: 1) Be at no cost to the taxpayers, 2) Amplify the environmental reasons for denying the warehouse, and 3) Defend the Township’s goal to protect the health, safety and welfare of our community. It’s time to do more than talk about quality of life being the most important thing. It’s time to combine Vision with Action!

Betty L. Velez-Gimbel Howell

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Common Ground

Oh Kumbaya! I finally found common ground with all those who voted for Donald Trump to be President of the United States again. First, we can all agree that he won the election. Second, Kamala Harris did not spend the last two and a half months whining and lying to the American people that she really won. And third, since it was a free democratic election, the American people will get the government they deserve.

For those citizens who feel disappointed that a majority of voters chose as their leader a demagogue who believes that the rule of law does not apply to him, your duty now is to bear witness to the consequences. And remember. For history’s sake.

Stay awake as the herd nods off, and avoids evidence of an insurrection that happened before their very eyes. Listen to the idiot wind that blows constantly from the mouths of all those Trump-pets pretending that traitors are patriots. Don’t fall for the false equivalencies, like convincing you that their retribution is the same as real justice.

And stop thinking about Donald. Entertainment is his game. He’s the best at keeping everyone distracted while he performs his con. He knows what he’s doing. Also, don’t waste your time trying to convince your friends and relatives who have slid down the rabbit hole of self-delusion. This election proved Mark Twain was right when he observed: “It is easier to fool a man, than to convince him he has been fooled.”

Jim Tweed Ocean City

The Real Origin Of The Species

Editor’s note: This letter is in response to the February 1 letter “Give Darwin His Due.”

Evolution, the theory (guess) introduced by the theorist Charles Darwin says we are not the product of an omnipotent Creator, but a blind random spontaneous process. Bang!nothing exploded and here we are. Evolution rests on the claim (assumption) that the random-verse, I mean uni-verse was made up from matter that previously existed then evolved over time. The Bible clearly and plainly tells us this is not true. “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (Hebrews 11:3). The popped popcorn didn’t always look like that.

In “Mind & Cosmos: Why the Materialist Neo Darwinian Conception of Nature is Almost Certainly False,” Thomas Nagel, (N.Y. University philosopher) states that evolution “flies in the face of common sense.” Dr. George Wald has stated in The Origin of Life: “One has only to contemplate the magnitude of this task to conceive that the spontaneous generation of a living organism is impossible.” Therefore you cannot get spontaneous generation of life from non-life. An impersonal force creating personal beings is contrary to what is referenced in scripture that no creation is greater than its creator.

Biologist Michael Denton, author of “Evolution a Theory in Crisis,” says: “Considering the way the prebiotic soup is referred to in so many discussions in the origin of life as an already established reality it comes as something of a shock to realize that there is absolutely no positive evidence for its existence. It is purely theoretical (guessoretical)…Science has so thoroughly discredited Darwinian evolution that it should be discarded.” TRASHED!

Charles Darwin himself, the dreamer of the

evolutionary fairy tale theory stated: “I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science.”

After all the years since he made this statement of his speculations about this false science, not one of his theories (guesses) of origins has been proven to be true - nor ever will be! So to paraphrase what was previously stated in Letters To The Editor: “Hopefully, as people become better educated about evolution” they will see that “natural selection” cannot and does not “select” anything: you need a Selector - Almighty God. Instead of making February 12th “Darwin Day” it would be better named “Duped Day.”

Charles J. Henke Brick It is important for a person who has experience as an educator to lead the U.S. Department of Education. It takes specific training to become a teacher. Would you want a plumber to perform surgery or to serve as the CEO of a financial corporation without the proper credentials?

A Poor Choice For Department Of Education

Well, then let’s provide our greatest resource, our children, with a Secretary of Education who has experience as an educator. It is NOT Linda McMahon!

She doesn’t have the qualifications. Does she know best practices in teaching? NO. Would she know how to write a special education Individual Education Program (IEP)? NO! And so on...

She should be required to withdraw her nomination. Would not a person with no law degree apply to be an attorney? NO! So why is this any different?

Linda Pauline Chatalian Belmar

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The Arc, Ocean County Chapter Celebrates Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

BRICK – March is recognized nationally as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and The Arc, Ocean County Chapter celebrated with the community at the annual Lunch Break event on March 5 at the Pop-Up Café in Brick.

The Arc invited companies in Ocean County to learn about the vocational services they provide to local businesses while offering job training, internships, and employment to people with disabilities for future success.

The Arc Employment Center in Lakewood

Photo courtesy The Arc, Ocean County Chapter provides production work, commercial cleaning services, and shredding services while the Learn to Earn program offers paid internships to qualified students with disabilities and the Arc Training Centers are in search of volunteer job training sites. The Ocean County community can learn more about The Arc’s services to support local businesses by visiting arcocean.org and becoming a partner for inclusion in 2025. This article was brought to you by our advertisers.

Lunch & Learn Seminar

JACKSON – Oliverie Funeral Home is hosting a Lunch & Learn Seminar on April 8 at 10 a.m. at The Wisteria, 125 S Cooks Bridge Road, Jackson. What you need to know about preplanning a funeral. A place to discuss everything that goes into planning a funeral while enjoying

a complimentary lunch. Medicaid spenddowns; veteran’s benefits’ prepayment options. Speaker: Geraldine Oliverie, Owner/ Manager, Licensed Funeral Director. To RSVP, call 732-657-4900. This article was brought to you by our advertisers.

Free On-Site Paper Shredding

JACKSON – For any individuals looking to shred old or confidential papers and documents safely and securely, free on-site paper shredding will be available on April 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Oliverie Funeral Homes, 25 S. Cooks Bridge Road Jackson. For more information, call 732-719-7250.

This article was brought to you by our advertisers.

C ommunity n ew S

Band Students See Live Professional Orchestra

JACKSON – Members of the Jaguar Band got to see an Open Dress Rehearsal of the Philadelphia Orchestra . This was many of the students’ first time seeing a live, professional orchestra!

courtesy Jackson Memorial Jaguar Bands

They are so appreciative that they had the opportunity for this experience! They heard Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 3 (Eroica),” Ravel’s “Left Hand Piano Concerto” and Michael Tilson Thomas’ “Agnegram.”

Free Nature Programs At FREC

JACKSON – Tune into nature, it is the best way to relax! The team at Forest Resource Education Center are ready to show you how with many forest-focused educational experiences.

Pre-register at: eventbrite.com/o/forest-resource-education-center-31858983647. Below are the following events for the month of March:

Invasive Species – March 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The number of invasive plants and animals are increasing and there is work to be done! See how to recognize and remove pests that have been creeping

Government:

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Bishop Wilfred Anagbe testified: “A longterm, Islamic agenda to homogenize the population has been implemented, over several presidencies, through a strategy to reduce and eventually eliminate the Christian identity of half of the population. This strategy includes both violent and non-violent actions, such as the exclusion of Christians from positions of power, the abduction of Church members, the raping of women, the killing and expulsion of Christians, the destruction of churches and farmlands of Christian farmers, followed by the occupation of such lands by Fulani herders. All of this takes

into our yards and local habitats. Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 15 people for this event and registration is free.

Wildlife Habitat – March 27 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Forests seem so silent when we enter them but animals are here! They are hiding or waiting until we leave. Learn how to see and identify the signs of numerous mammals and reptiles. Learn more about all the animals that call the forest their home. Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 20 people per hike. Registration is free.

place without government interference or reprisals.”

Director Shea told the House panel: “Nigeria is a country of superlatives - Africa’s most populous country, its largest economy and, alarmingly, the entire world’s deadliest country for Christians. In recent years, more Christians have been killed for their faith in Nigeria than all other places combined, reports the respected research group Open Doors. Currently, militant groups of nomadic Fulani Muslim herders are reported to be the greatest threat to Nigeria’s Christians, particularly those in Middle Belt farming communities. That central area is the intersection of Nigeria’s mostly Muslim North with its mostly Christian South.”

Photo

Police Challenge Coins Fundraiser

JACKSON – Law Enforcement Challenge Coins to help fundraise for the “Police Unity Tour” are now for sale and can be purchased from Officer Kalbach or Officer Kozna at Jackson Township Police Department. They are part of “Team Jackson Team Lakewood” and are taking part in this year’s

Photo courtesy Jackson Police ride to Washington for Police Week and all funds raised help them meet their rider goals to participate in this extraordinary and important event. The coins are $15 each! We thank you for helping these riders meet their goals and spread awareness for officers lost in the line of duty

Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption

Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

JACKSON – Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Rylan (left) and Romeo (right) are the sweetest most playful brothers. They will not have to go home as a pair, but two kittens are always more fun than one! They get along with the adult cats and a big dog. They are about 2-1/2 months old and will be ready for their forever home in about two weeks.

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.

C ommunity n ew S

Students Recognized At DECA Conference

Congratulations to the 31 members of the Jackson Memorial High School chapter of New Jersey DECA who joined over 4,600 high school business, finance, hospitality and marketing students at the annual association career development conference held at Harrah’s Convention Center in Atlantic City.

In addition to the JMHS Chapter achieving “Thrive Level Chapter” status, the following individuals received recognition of their ability and achievement at the association level: Central Region Scholarships: Emily Hamdi - $1,500

State Community Service Project: Noah Bravo DeRueda and Stephen Mikulak

Through these projects JMHS DECA earned 4 seats at the National Leadership Academy at ICDC. These students will advance to international level competition at the DECA International Career Development Conference that will be held April 26 to 30 in Orlando, Fl. “This is always an exciting time for JMHS

Schools DECA with state competition and ICDC qualifications earned. I am extremely proud of all of our members for making it to this level and for all of the work they put in to prepare to do their best. Our state qualifiers, scholarship winners, community service projects are the pinnacle of success we have prided ourselves on for the past 14 years. I am extremely proud and honored to advise these young men and women,” said Laura Fecak, the JMHS DECA Advisor.

As an integral part of the classroom curriculum, DECA’s industry-validated competitive events are aligned with the National Curriculum Standards in the career clusters of marketing, business management and administration, finance, and hospitality and tourism. DECA’s competitive events directly contribute to every student being college and career ready when they graduate from high school. More than 200 business professionals evaluated the members’ performance in the format of role-plays, case studies and prepared presentations.

Burn Ban In Plumsted

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED

–Township

Mayor Robert Bowen spoke during a Township Committee meeting about a recent brush fire within the community that led him to take an action.

“It started to get out of control very quickly. I have talked to our fire department and they have requested a burn ban that I have approved as we’ve been having very high winds and dry conditions so we can’t ask strongly enough for the public to not do

outdoor burning.”

“I want to thank the Plumsted Police Department, the Fire Department, and the New Jersey Forest Service for responding. I got there well after it was done and there were still 10 vehicles there and plenty of manpower,” the mayor added.

Mayor Bowen said, “there was quick response and I’m sure they would ask for the public’s help in not having any more of those kinds of situations.”

Good Friday Fish Fry

JACKSON – The Knights of Columbus Council #6201 is hosting a Good Friday Fish Fry on April 18 at 401 Bartley Road, Jackson. All are welcome!

Dine-in from 5 to 7 p.m. reservation only. Or order to-go! Prices are $15 for adult

meals, $10 for children ages 6 to 17, and free for children under 5.

To eat-in and make a reservation, call Joe D’Angelo at 732-284-0721. To order to-go, order must be placed in advance, call 732367-9788.

JACKSON –

Photo courtesy Jackson

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Child & Senior Proof Batteries

For those of you still using disposable zinc air batteries, the packaging has dramatically changed. For at least the past 25-30 years, you would be able to peel a TAB off a battery which activates the battery cell and insert the battery into your hearing instrument. These TABS were available in all battery sizes including 10, 312, 13, and 675. The TABS were color coded to make it easy know what size to pick up at most pharmacy stores, food stores, Walmart, Costco, etc. The color designation has not changed; however, each battery package is wrapped so tight, it requires the use of a scissors to open the pack to remove each battery. For seniors with poor dexterity or general weakness, it’s practically impossible to complete this task.

This new battery packaging rule was approved mainly because of the number of children and animals ingesting batteries. In my opinion, once the batteries are removed from the packaging, both children and animals can still ingest these batteries. This new law will FORCE the majority of seniors to switch

to rechargeable hearing aid models. This is not a bad thing since there’s no need to open or close battery doors or deal with packaging at all! You just put the hearing aids in a charger and in 3 hrs. you have a full charge for the rest of the day. The amount of money you would spend buying batteries offsets the cost of the charger which is normally included in the cost of the hearing aids.

If you’re lucky enough to still purchase the older packaging, make sure that these batteries have not expired. If you’re up to the challenge of using a strong scissors to remove each battery independently from the packaging, my advice would be to remove all of the batteries and put them in a separate jar with the battery tabs still on them.

The next time you decide to purchase new hearing aids, just go the rechargeable route and you will be significantly less frustrated.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always here to listen to your hearing care needs. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com.

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!

Change In Date For Veteran’s Claims Clinic

TOMS RIVER – If you are a veteran and need to apply for veteran’s benefits or for an increase in your existing claim rating, then please read the following (note that this is a different date than originally printed).

Our specialists at your local American Legion Post #129 wants to help. All veterans are welcome! On May 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the American Legion Post #129 at 2025 Church Road, Toms River, will be hosting a Claims Clinic and there will be volunteer claims specialists on site to help you apply for your benefits from the

Veterans Administration.

Bring your DD-214 with you if you have it available. If you have lost your DD-214, we can help you apply for a new copy. Do you already have an approved Claim Rating? The specialist may be able to help you obtain a higher percentage rating with a higher monthly benefit. Bring your paperwork with you. If you are not able to drive, your family member or friend is welcome to come into the clinic to assist you. So please come and join and let us help you attain your deserved benefits… you earned them!

Ocean County Bereavement Groups

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

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

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Spring Allergies: The Best Meds & 4 Natural Secret Weapons

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Spring is here, and so is allergy season! Beyond the obvious pollen, mold spores thrive in damp environments, especially after seasonal rains, while dust mites multiply as temperatures rise. Pet dander also becomes a bigger problem as animals shed their winter coats. Meanwhile, grass pollens like Bermuda, Timothy, and ryegrass kick into high gear in late spring, especially in May and June. These lightweight particles travel easily on the wind, making you miserable in your skin.

For fast relief, many people turn to OTC antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin). Cetirizine works quickly but can cause drowsiness so it should be taken at night, while loratadine is non-drowsy but may take slightly longer to kick in. Both block histamine, the chemical responsible for sneezing and itching. These are available nationwide. Nasal sprays like fluticasone (Flonase) reduce inflammation and congestion, but they take a few days to work and may cause nosebleeds if overused. This is effective for mild-to-moderate allergies, but if symptoms persist, you may need stronger support.

If OTC meds aren’t cutting it, your doctor may prescribe montelukast (Singulair), which blocks leukotrienes, another inflammation trigger that your body makes when faced with pollen. It’s great for asthma-related allergies, but some people experience mood changes or vivid dreams. Ask your doctor about that one. Antihistamines come in two generations and a lot of people don’t know that. The first-generation (like diphenhydramine/Benadryl) work fast but cause drowsiness. That’s why it got rebranded as a sleep aid! It’s great for nighttime relief but not for daytime function.

The second-generation medications (like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine) provide longer-lasting, non-drowsy relief. They’re better for daily use but can still cause dryness or headaches.

Some people live on these medications. You should know that taking antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays year-round can deplete essential nutrients, what I call the “drug mugging” effect. Here’s what to watch for:

Antihistamines: Can lower vitamin C and zinc, both crucial for immunity.

Nasal steroids: May reduce vitamin D, leading to weakened bones and increased infections.

Montelukast: Can impact magnesium and B vitamins, affecting mood and energy. If you rely on these meds daily, consider supplementing with what they deplete, your body will thank you.

I love weaving in natural options for allergy relief, consider the following:

Vitamin C: Acts as a natural antihistamine, reducing sneezing and itching.

Vitamin D: Keeps your immune system balanced.

B Complex: Helps regulate histamine and supports energy.

Catalase: Helps detox oxidative stress, which can worsen allergy symptoms.

If OTC meds aren’t helping or your symptoms include wheezing, facial swelling, or sinus infections (like sinus fungal balls, which I’ve written about before), it’s time to see a doctor.

You don’t have to suffer all season! 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) ©2025 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Criticism:

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of the National Organization for Women (NOW), Manchester Democrats and a local Indivisible group who were present. Indivisible is a grassroots movement with a mission to “elect progressive leaders, rebuild democracy, and defeat the Trump agenda.”

Attendees of the rallies urged Smith to stand up against the Trump administration and voice objection against the Republican policies they expressed would hurt seniors, minorities and federal employees.

They also called for Smith to host a town hall meeting where he could receive questions about what is going on in Washington D.C. and what the longtime Republican’s views on these issues were. Smith’s staff members noted that he had not held a Town Hall meeting in some time. They recalled one held in 1992. Smith has held his seat in Congress since 1981.

Smith’s face appeared on several of the signs that attendees carried. His image was featured prominently on a sign carried by Diane Hurlburt of Point Pleasant who said she tried to reach out to the representative. “I was here last week and filled out a form and asked a staff member if he was going to have a town hall meeting and they said they had no idea. I’ve called for three weeks and only got a message that they took my number and name.”

When asked what concerns she had, she replied “There are so many but my main concern today is for Medicaid and Medicare, our immigrant population in New Jersey and

(DOGE director Elon) Musk controlling things. I have family who work for the federal government and the morale of workers is so low. The whole thing is a mess and its embarrassing as an American and also how we are treating our allies,” she added.

NOW members Patty Villani of Point Pleasant and Linda Fote of Toms River came out for the Friday afternoon rally for similar reasons.

Fote said, “the cuts in Medicaid will really impact women. Medicaid covers about 20% of pregnancies in this country. It also covers a lot of nursing homes for the elderly who run out of their benefits. We are really here to speak up for women’s issues about Medicaid.”

Sporting a red, white and blue jacket adorned with a Captain America shield emblem and Avengers symbol, Frank B. Oarodowski of Jackson stood out in the crowd. “I was concerned about Congressman Smith’s recent vote on the Medicaid bill.”

“This is going to affect millions of Americans. There are 70 million plus Americans on Medicaid and many of them are his constituents so I can’t understand why he would willfully neglect many of his constituents?” he asked.

Oarodowski said, “It’s just unbelievable. I’ve reached out to his office but I haven’t had the chance to talk to Mr. Smith. He seems pretty absent. Hopefully we’ll get his attention. I’m not optimistic but hopeful that we’ll make some noise here.”

South Toms River resident Debra Di Donato, who is running for state assembly in legislative District 10, was pleased with the turnout. “It is very heartening to see the amount of

people that this has brought out.”

“I have a genetic predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer and research funding for various diseases disorders and cancers (which have recently been cut in funding) are very important. Without that I wouldn’t have been able to have the knowledge for the genetic testing to undergo for the preventive necessity of a hysterectomy that could be life saving for people,” she added.

Didonato said, “as a nurse I see the cuts of Medicaid and Medicare are very detrimental to care in our state and throughout the country. It is going to flood our emergency departments by the people who should be otherwise receiving care from their primary care doctors. I am out here today in hopes that we can bring some awareness to the issues that we are seeing right now.”

Other concerns focused on getting Musk’s “hands off our data” as one chant put it during the afternoon. Drivers on Washington Street slowed down to cheer on the protestors some of whom took to the sidewalk with their protest signs.

After the rally, Congressman Smith’s office was contacted by Jersey Shore Online.com to address the concerns that the protesters brought up. His office replied with a statement that was virtually identical to a press release posted on his website two days before the first rally:

“The House took the first critical step to tackle our huge $36 trillion debt – a crushing burden that we cannot sustain or survive as a nation. Most Americans are shocked to learn that the daily interest payment on the national debt is $2.6 billion. Yearly interest payments

on the debt alone will rise to $952 billion in 2025 and will climb to over $1 trillion in 2026 - and that interest payment will total $13.8 trillion over the next decade,” Smith said.

“This means the federal government already spends more on debt servicing than it does on defense spending or Medicaid. “Our children and grandchildren should not be burdened by the ever-increasing national debt. We must begin to address it today,” he said.

“The bill we passed is a budget blueprint. After extensive conversations with colleagues and House leadership, I have received commitments that we will seek to cut waste, fraud, abuse, and misdirected spending while protecting Social Security and Medicare and critical safety net programs like Medicaid that New Jersey’s seniors and most vulnerable–including individuals with disabilities – desperately need and rely upon,” Smith added.

There are no current plans for Smith to host a town hall meeting. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has actually urged fellow Republican lawmakers to avoid public town hall meetings with voters after some events turned emotional over the president’s actions firing federal workers, defunding government programs and instituting tariffs on America’s two closest neighbors, Canada and Mexico.

The congressman, who is a longtime advocate on veterans’ issues, did not respond to a question about the projected cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs that the Republican administration is making, which has been estimated between 70,000 and 80,000 employees.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Injured At Work?! Know Your Rights To Critical Benefits!

By: Chris Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

You have a right to a safe and healthful workplace. If you have suffered an injury on the job, make sure you know what kind of benefits you might receive under workers’ compensation coverage.

In some instances, an aggressive compensation carrier may deny an injured worker’s legitimate workers’ compensation claims. An insurer can claim you have not been injured, or that the injury you have suffered is not serious enough to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. If this is the case, you may stand to lose critical benefits.

Most important among these critical benefits is the right to medical treatment. Medical benefits are mandated by the New Jersey Worker’s Compensation Act, and require the employer to furnish the injured worker with medical, surgical, and other treatment as are necessary “to cure and relieve the worker of the effects of the injury and to restore the functions of the injured member or organ” if possible. Moreover, in those instances where the employer has refused or neglected to provide medical treatment in accordance with the provisions of the Workers’ Compensation Act, the employer will be held responsible for the cost of treatment; even if the employee receives treatment prior

Christopher R. Shea Esq.

to the carrier’s authorization.

Further, it is important to note another critical benefit of the Workers Compensation Act. This benefit protects employees from collections law suits when the employee obtains medical treatment that has been wrongfully or negligently withheld by an employer. This benefit, was upheld by the New Jersey Appellate Court in Kinley Physical Therapy Services, Inc. v. Kramer, and unequivocally states that a medical service provider is prohibited from filing an action against the employee until a determination has been made by the Division of Workers’ Compensation. The Court reasoned that a medical provider is normally not permitted to pursue collection actions in court until it resolves all administrative remedies, thus, the employee must be shielded from all actions by the medical provider until the Court determines whether or not the employer is responsible for the cost of medical care. If you feel your legitimate benefits have been denied and you live in the New Jersey, our workers compensation lawyers would like to talk to you to see if we can assist you with your case. Please call for a free consultation. R.C. Shea & Associates, 244 Main Street, Toms River, N.J. (732) 505-1212.

photo of the week

Chefs’ Night Out:

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Jr. and Kimberly Cespedes even brought some dessert to attendees in the form of their Cannoli Caddy where your cannolis were made to order, with a choice of topping options.

Among the restaurants present was The Waterfront based in the Forked River section of Lacey Township that provided a small plate filled with three items to sample. The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Kitchen of Toms River offered up shrimp and grits, Klee’s and Henry’s – both in Seaside - provided bread pudding and chocolate bread pudding samples.

Beverages were important too. Flying Monkeys served several variations of one of their craft beers. Icarus Brewing Company of Brick and Bacchus Winemakers in Toms River also provided sample drinks from their establishments.

Among the many attendees were Judy Cook and Peter Devine of Beachwood who came out to enjoy the food and atmosphere. “The desserts are all really amazing. This is our first time. We were at something like this years ago but for a different group. This is wonderful,” Cook said.

Devine couldn’t decide what he enjoyed best. “I love the variety of food they have here.”

Helping out at the event were OCVTS cosmetology students under the direction of Barbara Stewart.

Stewart said, “I have 23 students and we have 21 of them here tonight. They are working the floor and clean-up, and they are enjoying the food too. We have a lot more vendors this year.”

Some Frank Sinatra classics were heard sung by Joseph Necci who performed during the evening.

The event is always held on the first Monday in March. It moved back to the RWJBarnabas Health Arena after two years at the Lacey Elks Lodge.

Numerous attendees got the chance to enjoy a night out for a cause to help fund scholarships, educational programs, and support services “that are crucial for the growth and success of our students in career and technical education,” said Annie Sayers, transition specialist with the Vo-Tech.

Sayers noted, “this is more than just a

night out enjoying delicious culinary delights; it’s an opportunity to provide the necessary tools and resources to support the educational journeys of future professionals in various trades.”

The school system has a number of new projects and plans coming up. Director of Curriculum and Grants Director Gary MacDonald was present at the fundraiser and he noted that one building project concerns the expansion of the OCVTS

Jackson Center. He also referenced the introduction of new programs and curricula, including the Bricklayer, Allied Craftworker & Mason, and Legal Studies and Paralegal Practice.

OCVTS Board member Maureen Stankowitz referenced the Jackson Center project noting “it is going very well. They had to put tents around the building with heaters because it was so cold they couldn’t work on it but it is on schedule.

They added more classroom space and when that is added they will have bigger projects.”

“Welding is going out there and one of the smaller projects is the Toms River center and we are improving on the mason program and taking down the Waretown building and building a new building.” She said one program would be moved to Ocean County College. “There is so much going on.”

Power In The Pines Airshow To Return In May

By Bob Vosseller JOINT BASE McGUIRE-DIX-LAKE -

HURST – The “Power in Pines” Airshow will soar once again at Joint Base McGuire Dix-Lakehurst for two days, May 17 and May 18.

This family oriented event is open to the community to watch firsthand the power,

precision, and skill of some of the world’s top aerial performers. The theme for this year’s airshow is “Joint Warfighters: Honor. Inspire. Innovate.”

Featured this year are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, whose dynamic demonstrations inspire millions of spectators around the globe. Formed in 1953, the Thunderbirds have a

storied history of showcasing the pride, professionalism, and dedication of the U.S. Air Force. Spectators can look forward to seeing the pilots push the limits of their F-16 Fighting Falcons in breathtaking displays of speed, agility, and teamwork.

In addition to the Thunderbirds, “Power in the Pines” will feature other thrilling aerial

demonstrations highlighting both modern and heritage aircraft. Attendees of all ages can enjoy a range of on-the-ground attractions including static displays, food vendors, interactive displays, and family-friendly activities. For more information and updates about “Power in the Pines,” visit jbmdl.jb.mil/Powerin-the-Pines-Air-Show

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

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Greenbriar Woodlands PresentsMidatlantic Men Broadway Talent, Global Hits Two Americans & One witty Brit face off in a vocal sensation to see which country does pop better.

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COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY

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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)

Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)

CAR SERVICE - Specializing in Newark and Atlantic City Airports, Point Pleasant and Bay Head Train Station. Call Kevin 727-396-7820. (8)

Caroline's Cleaning - Specializing in change-overs, offices, construction cleanup, shopping, doctor appointments and more. Call now for estimate 848-210-6213. (16)

Classifieds are placed in all 7 of our weekly newspapers covering all of Ocean County, and also Howell in Monmouth County.

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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)

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)

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)

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. (21)

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)

Cleaning Service - Too tired or can't be bothered. Call Donna 732-3305916. Rentals, overturns, construction and residential. Insured and bonded. (9)

PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (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)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (43)

DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE ? Call Lenny - Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (15)

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BUYING WRIST & POCKET WATCHES

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ALL KINDS, ALL TIME PERIODS, ALL CONDITIONS! ROLEX, CARTIER, BULOVA, MOVADO & MORE ALL POCKET WATCHES WORKING OR NOT

BUYING ESTATE & VINTAGE JEWELRY

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ESTATE VINTAGE VICTORIAN: EARRINGS - NECKLACES - PENDANTS

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ABSOLUTE TOP DOLLAR PAID ON ANYTHING MADE OF GOLD

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BUYING ALL SILVER

ABSOLUTE TOP DOLLAR PAID ON ANYTHING MADE OF SILVER ALL KINDS, ERA & CONDITIONS

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SCRAP SILVER JEWELRY: CHARM BRACELETS, BELT BUCKLES, MORGAN DOLLARS, EISENHOWER 40% SILVER COINS, ALL 90% SILVER (ESPECIALLY PRE-1964)

BUYING ALL DIAMONDS

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FOR THE WEEK OF MAR 22 - MAR 28 BY JERALDINE

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your compromises could make you a contender. You may lean towards luxurious experiences or be attracted to things that show good taste. However, you might need to mediate or find common ground to keep peace and harmony between others.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You may stand out in the crowd by being overtly original. While others might maintain balance in their relationships, you may have an incentive to forge your own path. Trying something new could highlight your candid and honest demeanor.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may be reviewing a pending purchase. It might seem like the perfect solution, but it could be overly ambitious or an impulsive choice. Your judgment could be off, ensure that you understand the reality of your situation and budget.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): It may be helpful to strengthen your weaknesses. Consider dedicating time to mastering a topic that’s been challenging for you in the past. You may make significant strides toward your goals by trusting your intuition for decisive action.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You may feel you have the most even when you have the least. An intense drive for success might lead to overconfidence, potentially causing friction with allies and supporters who could be instrumental in your happiness and achievement.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Anything worth having is worth the investment of your time and effort. Take pride in enhancing your environment and think of ways to add touches of beauty to your home. Consider holding onto what you have even when tempted by change.

SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your emotional armor may need some polishing. Even close friends might seem judgmental or could poke at your vulnerabilities. It may be wise to delay making important changes, promises, or decisions if you feel pressured in any way.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The stars in your eyes may blind you to the cold hard facts. You might confuse someone’s kindness or flattery with genuine admiration when their motives are financial. Be cautious of offers and opportunities that sound too perfect to be true.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A difficult problem may have a simple solution. Consider ways to apply straightforward logic to find quick fixes without overcomplicating things. A peaceful evening with someone special could renew your faith in the world.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may be working to dispel rumors of trust issues. There’s a chance to enhance your reputation by demonstrating your dedication to others’ happiness or success. Exercise patience if key information is temporarily unclear.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your partners or loved ones might demand more than just effort; they want results. Save your earnings securely and consider looking into investments that may offer additional safety. Take pride in financial discipline and budget plans.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Truth and beauty may soon become your reality. Highlighting the positive aspects of your job, hobby, relationship, or finances might come naturally. You could thrive in a serene environment where you can unleash your creativity.

By America’s Test Kitchen

For a simple weeknight meal, we coated seared chicken tenderloins in a sweet gochujang sauce inspired by the glaze on dakgangjeong (Korean fried chicken). Chopped kimchi added mouthwatering spicy-sour flavor to coleslaw for an easy side.

GOCHUJANG CHICKEN TENDERLOINS WITH KIMCHI COLESLAW Serves 4

1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw mix

1 cup cabbage kimchi, drained and chopped

6 tablespoons mayonnaise 1/4 cup sugar, divided

1 1/4 teaspoons table salt, divided

3 tablespoons gochujang

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

1 garlic clove, minced

1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins,

trimmed

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1. Combine coleslaw mix, kimchi, mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Whisk gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and remaining 3 tablespoons sugar in a second bowl until smooth.

2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Heat vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side; transfer to plate.

3. Add gochujang mixture to now-empty skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until glossy and bubbling, about 1 minute. Return chicken to skillet and toss to coat. Serve chicken with coleslaw.