Students’ Sci-Fi Dreams Take Flight With Author Visit
By Stephanie Faughnan
BARNEGAT – Excitement filled the air as sixth graders in an accelerated English Language Arts class at Robert L. Horbelt Intermediate School gathered for a book signing with Brian Seidel, the Barnegat native behind “Captain Henry and the Planets Guard.”
During his fi rst visit in December, Seidel challenged Christine Cooper’s class to create a new alien character to be featured in the sequel to his book. The students later connected with him virtually in February to refine their ideas, making his recent return for a book signing even more special. The students, who had been eagerly anticipat-
Chefs’ Night Out Puts OCVTS On The Menu For Success
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 fundrais-
er 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 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 (OCVTS - See Page 14)
ing Seidel’s return, welcomed him into a classroom that reflected their deep engagement with his work. Brightly colored papers showcased their original alien creations, complete with detailed limericks and AI-generated images.
A “Welcome Mr. Seidel” display also included a poignant thank you letter from one of the students. “This brought tears to my eyes,” said Seidel as (Author - See Page 4)
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 Arena in Toms River.
Lacey Elks Subdivision Hearing Delayed
By Stephanie Faughnan
LACEY – A highly anticipated Planning Board meeting regarding the ownership of land underneath the water surrounding the Lacey Elks Lodge has been rescheduled due to an overwhelming public turnout and issues with proper notice.
Originally scheduled for March 10, 2025, the meeting will now take place on April 14, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Charles A. Smith Community Center, 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River. The move ensures adequate space for residents, after the initial hearing exceeded the township meeting room’s 125-person capacity, with people forced to stand in the hallway. Beyond the overcrowding, Planning Board Attorney Terry Brady clarified that the meeting could not proceed due to deficiencies in the legal notices sent to residents.
“There’s clearly an issue about the number of people in this room and the number of people outside,” Brady explained. “But more importantly, notice deficiencies are a jurisdictional issue. Any irregularity means the board does not have the authority to act on an application unless the notices are absolutely correct.”
Attorney Harry Levin, representing the Lacey Elks, acknowledged the irregularities and agreed to postpone the hearing. Residents who are required to be notified must be within 200 feet of the property requested for subdivision. Approximately 378 homes are believed to be impacted by the application, with some on lagoons and others on the river.
Planning Board member Christopher Reid clarified that the town did not cancel the meeting. “This is the Elks application, because the Elks wants to do something with their property, and we, according to the Elks, they’re saying we have the authority to hear it,” Reid stated. “We have the authority to make the decisions. It’s up to the Elks to present that to us. We’re not forcing them to do it, and we didn’t cancel.”
Land Under The Water: A Legacy Of Land Transfers
The core of the dispute lies in the Elks’ ownership of riparian rights for particular properties on the river, as well as the land
(Hearing - See Page 5)
Photos by Stephanie Faughnan Students display their signed copies of Seidel’s book, while posing with him and their teacher and principal.
Photo by Bob Vosseller
Author:
Continued From Page 1 he entered the room before the children arrived. “This letter really touched me.”
Alexander Padilla, the six-grader who wrote the note said that the author’s fi rst visit had ignited his own passion for writing. “I really loved meeting Mr. Seidel,” Alexander said, “and I think it opened up a whole lot more experience about book writing. Now, after meeting him, it just changed my perspective about writing in general. It helps me release my stress.” Alexander also appreciated Mrs. Cooper’s encouragement in pursuing his writing dreams, specifically writing about his baseball experiences.
Horbelt Principal Joseph Saxton was pres-
ent at the book signing and eager to share how it all began. Seidel no longer lives in Barnegat but was in touch with one of his childhood classmates, who just happens to be Assistant Principal Jennifer Lane.
“Brian reached out to Jen Lane and told her he’d published a book and wanted to showcase it,” said Saxton. “Jen Lane worked on setting something up with Mrs. Cooper and had the kids in the accelerated ELA class meet with Brian for the fi rst time.”
They took it a step further, Saxton continued. “The kids met with him on the computer and were asking questions. This was a great teacher willing to work with the kids and get them connected out of the classroom into the real world.”
Cooper said she seized this opportunity
for a unique character development lesson. Students crafted detailed limericks describing their alien creations and then used AI to bring their visions to life with vivid images. This creative exercise sparked a flurry of imaginative ideas, with students eagerly sharing their creations and asking Seidel insightful questions during their Google Meet session.
The long-awaited return visit was a whirlwind of activity. Seidel signed copies of his book, and answered a barrage of questions from his eager fans. He spoke about his inspiration for “Captain Henry,” a story rooted in his own childhood experiences in Barnegat, and the importance of believing in oneself.
“This whole process really has been super special to me,” Seidel told the students, “And has helped me so much on my author journey and also given me so much confidence into my second book.”
The excitement doesn’t end here. Seidel revealed that the sequel to “Captain Henry” is slated for release in November or December. The students, eager to see if any of their alien creations will come to life in the second book, are already counting down the days. By then, they’ll have moved on to the Brackman Middle School and have asked Cooper to remember them for the author’s next return visit.
The school’s collaborative efforts extend beyond the classroom. A student-created book display celebrating Seidel’s visit will be featured at the Ocean County Library. Cooper also experienced a taste of the power of social media. When she shared news of Seidel’s book and his upcoming visit, it sparked an unexpected wave of community engagement. Cooper said it was as if there
was an “explosion of excitement” with more than 75 books purchased and donated.
Brian Seidel And The Planets Guard
Brian Seidel’s path to becoming a children’s author is as captivating as the stories he tells. A Barnegat native who now lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, Seidel spent over two decades in the fast-paced world of television production, working behind the scenes on popular shows for networks like HGTV, Magnolia, and Animal Planet. He honed his storytelling skills, crafting narratives for reality TV, but always harbored a desire to create his own worlds.
That desire culminated in “Captain Henry and the Planets Guard,” a five-star rated book available on Amazon. The story centers on twelve-year-old Henry, a relatable middle schooler struggling to fit in. His life takes a dramatic turn when he and his friends witness a spaceship crash in the woods. Struck by a mysterious energy wave, they gain powerful cosmic abilities known as the Tama-Gah. Under the guidance of an alien named Moshe-Rank, they must learn to control their newfound powers and face the evil Madola, who threatens to destroy the Tama-Gah and Earth.
Seidel’s personal connection to Barnegat shines through in “Captain Henry.” The story is infused with the landscapes and experiences of his own childhood, making it resonate deeply with young readers in his hometown. The book’s message of self-belief and the importance of teamwork has struck a chord with students, inspiring them to embrace their own unique abilities.
Hearing:
Continued From Page 1
under the water for those facing lagoons. The claim stems from a series of land transfers initiated by developer Charles Pearl. According to Levin, Pearl transferred upland property - land above the bulkhead - to homeowners, while reserving the land beneath the water for himself, which was later gifted to the Elks.
“The issue came up years ago,” Levin said, “But the public got so angry they dropped it.” He clarified that while the initial proposal occurred around 1980, the deed transferring the rights to the Elks was executed in 1996. The Elks are now considering subdividing these underwater lots and transferring them to the adjacent homeowners, potentially at a cost.
At an April 2024 Lacey Planning Board meeting, Levin presented the Elks proposal without submitting a formal application. He estimated costs of $50 per linear foot for lagoon frontage and $100 per linear foot for riverfront.
In an interview, Levin stated that he is working to create a program for those unable to afford the purchase. The idea is to allow those who justifiably cannot afford to acquire the land under the water or riparian rights to possibly pay when the property is sold.
Levin said the Elks had decided to move ahead with the subdivision for two separate reasons. For one, although there has never been a claim of any time, they were concerned about liability for damages. Secondly, the township has been taxing the Elks for the land that’s under the water. In
the last two years, the Elks have been taxed $2,275 by the local government.
Homeowners’ Concerns
Many of the homeowners impacted by the subdivision and the prospect of being asked to buy land or rights they thought were theirs are upset.
“My frustration comes from the fact they’ve turned this into a money grab,” said a source that asked to remain anonymous. “They feel they have the right to make money on this even though they only gave $1 to Charles Pearl.”
The same source said the Elks had been approached in prior years to make the transfer. They refused an offer of a nominal sum suggested to settle the claim.
“That’s part of the misinformation or disinformation that is taking place,” said Levin.
“These people all bought waterfront property. And why do you buy a waterfront property? You buy it because you want to put your boat, your jet skis, build a dock, whatever.”
“These people, for reasons that are unclear, bought this land to build a house and never checked into the fact that there was a reservation by Mr. Pearl that the land under the water was reserved for himself initially and then eventually given to the Elks,” Levin added.
Some have suggested creating a homeowner’s association to purchase the whole parcel for a nominal cost. Levin said that a few homeowners have also contacted him ready to sign off on the purchase.
The Lacey Planning Board has called for community cooperation and understanding as the process moves forward to the rescheduled hearing on April 14.
Join Southern Ocean Chamber Interactive Marketing
LONG BEACH – Elevate your professional network and business brand with networking, dinner and drinks at LBI National Golf & Resort
As part of their 111th year, the Southern Ocean County Chamber is proud to introduce the Southern Ocean Chamber Strategic Marketing Consult program. This initiative is a result of our recent strategic planning efforts, aimed at providing tailored marketing solutions to our valued Chamber members. Be part of the launch, along with sponsors Southern Ocean Consulting LLC, Beasley Media,
Press Communications, Anna Bananas Bakery, Pineland Brewing Company, and LBI National Golf & Resort happening on March 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at LBI National Golf & Resort, 99 Golf Drive, Little Egg Harbor. Highlights from this one-of-a-kind event include:
• Interactive Program: Gain valuable insights and strategies to enhance your marketing efforts.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your business network.
• Delicious Food and Dessert: Enjoy a specially curated menu for the event from LBI National & Anna Bananas Bakery
• Signature Drink: Savor a special drink crafted by Pinelands Brewing Company
• Marketing Prizes: Two opportunities for businesses to benefit from $2500 free radio buys sponsored by Beasley Media and one $2500 radio package sponsored by Press Communications
With the Strategic Marketing program, businesses can opt in to gain exclusive access to comprehensive marketing services designed
to meet their unique needs. As discussed at the 2025 State of the Chamber, one of the most requested services from business owners and managers was the ability to reach goals with personalized marketing assistance and strategic support. Learn more with this great night out. $30 per person (includes program, networking, food, specialty dessert from Anna Bananas Bakery and a signature drink from Pinelands Brewing Company). Space is limited, RSVP with Southern Ocean Chamber office at 609-494-7211 or email Kate@ sochamber.com.
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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 fi red. 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 fi rst 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 Southern Ocean Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns. All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to 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 re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Support For Fighting Overdevelopment Common Ground
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
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 “fl ies 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
A Poor Choice For Department Of Education
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?
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
Carmen
Bill Supporting Homeless Veterans’ Centers Advances
F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District
TRENTON - The Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee approved
bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-9) and Senator Raj Mukherji (D-32) that would support homeless veterans’ centers using proceeds from the sale of special veterans’ license plates.
“This bill is a small but meaningful way to support the brave men and wom-
en who have made sacrifices for our country and now need our support,” said Sen. Amato. “By directing proceeds from the sale of a new specialized license plate, we can ensure that Veterans Haven North and Veterans Haven South have the resources they need to help homeless veterans get back on their feet.”
Senator Amato’s bill, S-1915, would authorize the Motor Vehicle Commission
in consultation with the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs to design a Support Our Veterans license plate with the proceeds supporting the Veterans Haven North and Veterans Haven South homeless centers.
The Veterans’ centers provide temporary housing to homeless veterans who participate in programs addressing psychological, social, and vocational rehabilitation.
Program’s Goal Is To House All Homeless Veterans
From The Desk Of The Governor
Phil Murphy
TRENTON – The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (NJDCA) and the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (NJDMAVA) began a twoday training session at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt highlighting New Jersey’s Bringing Veterans Home initiative to reduce veterans’ homelessness to functional zero. The Bringing Veterans Home initiative seeks to house all homeless veterans in the state by July 1, 2026, while strengthening the State’s homelessness prevention system so that any newly homeless veteran can be placed in stable housing within one month. The Bringing Veterans Home initiative coordinates efforts between DCA’s Office
of Homelessness Prevention, NJDMAVA, federal partners at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and multiple veterans service organizations. This combined effort will ensure the State can reach its goal to house 300 veterans within the next 180 days and reach functional zero by July 1, 2026.
More than $30 million in State and federal funds have been committed to support these services and interventions over the span of two years, to place more than 1,000 homeless New Jersey veterans into stable housing. Services and interventions include Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (VASH) vouchers and other rental assistance, the State’s Veterans Haven transitional housing facilities, and Supportive Services for Veterans and Families (SSVF) programs.
Additionally, the initiative will expand
P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com
homelessness diversion, rapid rehousing, street outreach, emergency sheltering, and permanent housing voucher programs to more rapidly achieve housing stabilization for all program-eligible veterans.
“Our veterans have sacrificed so much to uphold our nation’s freedom and deserve our deepest gratitude and respect for their service,” said Governor Murphy. “Our Administration is committed to providing the many veterans who call the Garden State home the support and resources they need to thrive. I am grateful to Commissioner Suárez and Brigadier General Mays for their continued efforts to ensure every veteran in New Jersey has a safe and dignified place to call home.”
“The Bringing Veterans Home initiative formally unites federal, state, and veteran service organizations throughout the state in the fight against unsheltered veteran homelessness,” said NJDCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “Using this collaborative approach, we will be sheltering our homeless veterans this year and next, while creating a strategic framework that will carry momentum long into the future.”
“Bringing Veterans Home represents a groundbreaking step toward ensuring that no Veteran endures the hardship of homelessness.”” said Brig. Gen. Yvonne L. Mays, Commissioner of the NJDMAVA and the Adjutant General of New Jersey. “Thanks to Governor Murphy, the Legislature, the NJDCA and NJDMAVA teams and so many passionate volunteers throughout the entire state, we are in a position to effectively end veteran homelessness.
“Success requires collaboration,” said Michael Callahan, Director of the Office of Homelessness Prevention at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. “This training event shared key insights on veteran homelessness through data analysis and interviews with people who’ve experienced it firsthand. This knowledge sharing helps us meet our goal.”
“We appreciate the support from all community partners involved in this effort in ending veteran homelessness,” said Wilmington VA Medical Center Interim Director, Dr. Matt Morris. “One homeless Veteran is one to many, we want to make sure all veterans are receiving the VA services they’ve earned.”
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.
C ommunity n eWs
Local Author Celebrates Book Signing
Mayor Curatolo, who also works in Public Health, spoke on the importance of raising awareness for dementia and Alzheimer’s research, noting.
“With over 200,000 Ocean County residents aged between 55 and 85, we must prioritize this issue as we shape future policies. It is also deeply personal to me, having lost my mother to dementia,” Curatolo said. He also praised Lacey’s strong sense of community and recognized the dedication of caregivers, calling their work a true labor of love.
LACEY – Lacey Township author Andra Napolean celebrated her book signing at The Captain’s Inn, joined by Mayor Pete Curatolo and an incredible turnout of local businesses and residents.
Photo courtesy Lacey Township
Police Officer Retires After 25 Years Of Service
Connect and grow your professional
and business brand LIMITED SEATING. Reserve by calling 609.494.7211 or email kate@sochamber.com
LACEY – We would like to congratulate Lt. George Resetar #90, on his retirement from the Lacey Township Police Department after 25-1/2 years of service!
The Lacey Township Police Department recently held a ceremonial walkout for Lt. Resetar, as we honored his career during his last day of work!
Lt. Resetar started his career with our agency as a police dispatcher in 1999, and became a full-time police officer in 2006. He was promoted to the position of sergeant in 2018, and lieutenant in 2023. Lt. Resetar attained a Bachelor’s Degree from Thomas
MANAHAWKIN – Save the date for Breakfast with the Easter Bunny! April 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Stafford Fire Department, 133 Stafford Avenue Manahawkin. Hop on over for a morning complete with a delicious breakfast, photos with the Easter bunny, and an egg hunt hosted by Stafford Fire Ladies Auxiliary and Stafford EMS Auxiliary.
Edison State University, and graduated from the NJSACOP Command and Leadership Academy in 2024.
Lt. Resetar and his family have committed their lives to serving our communities; from his service as a police officer, police dispatcher, his time as a member of the Lanoka Harbor First Aid Squad, and his time on the baseball field with the Lacey Township Little League.
We wish Lt. Resetar and his family a healthy and happy retirement! Congratulations and thank you for your service to our community!
Breakfast With The Easter Bunny Anxiety Support Group
WARETOWN – P.H.O.B.I.A. is an anxiety support group that meets every Wednesday night at St. Stephen’s Episcopal church located at 367 Route 9 in Waretown. We
Cost is $15 per person (kids 1 and under are free). Tickets can be purchased online at ticketor.com/staffordems. You can also purchase in person on March 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Stafford Fire Department, 133 Stafford Avenue.
You won’t want to miss this egg-cellent event! Proceeds to benefit Stafford Fire Ladies Auxiliary and Stafford EMS Auxiliary.
meet in the church’s library from 7 to 9 p.m. Find us online at facebook.com/phobiasupportgroup. For more information email us at phobiaanxietygroup@gmail.com.
Photo courtesy Lacey Police
Ship Bottom’s Centennial Beach Badge On Sale
SHIP BOTTOM – Ship Bottom’s Centennial Beach Badge can be purchased for the 2025 Beach Season! Available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the 2nd Floor Clerk’s Office.
Payment methods accepted are cash, check, credit/debit. Please note that exact change is appreciated. Debit/credit transactions incur a service fee. The badge is priced at $42 each. Purchase now, as quantities are limited. Happy 100th Birthday Ship Bottom!
Easter Egg Hunt & Breakfast
LACEY – The Lacey Elks Lodge is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on March 30.
Open to the public. Two seatings for breakfast: 8 a.m. & 10 a.m. Cost is $20 for
adults and $15 for kids. Tickets need to be purchased in advance. Contact Michael Zummo at 732-300-0352.
The Lacey Elks Lodge is located at 900 Beach Boulevard, Forked River.
Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 16
Photo courtesy Borough of Ship Bottom
American Angler Grand Slam Surf Fishing Tournament
LONG BEACH – Mark your calendars for the American Angler Grand Slam Surf Fishing Tournament on Long Beach Island on May 31.
It’s a team and individual tournament with over $5000 in retail fishing prizes. Free 4x4 access, and a light lunch provided. Don’t miss out on New Jersey’s largest surf fishing tournament. Bring your family and friends for a great day on the beach! And, the blue-
fish and bass are expecting to be bashing the beach!
Registration is at the Surf City Fire Hall starting at 5:30 a.m., 713 Long Beach Boulevard, Surf City. Paypal, Venmo, and walk-ups are accepted. Just go to Americananglerus.com
Rules can be found at asaconline.org under the bylaw tab! Questions? Contact Carl Hartmann, cfishigotu@aol.com or 201-481-4390.
Casino Night
LACEY – Join for a fun evening of casino games on May 2 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Lacey Elks Lodge, 900 Beach Boulevard, Forked River.
Cost is $75 a ticket. Ticket price includes $75 worth of playing chips and access to an open beer & wine bar, and buffet! All of the proceeds go to Barnegat Rotary Club projects. Here are some of community projects they contributed to or organized:
Barnegat Food Pantry; Christmas Elf Program; Boy Scouts of America; ReClam the Bay New Wave Swim Club; Barnegat High School Scholarships; National Night Out; Thanksgiving & Easter meal donation; Barnegat PBA; Multiple Local Charities & Organizations; local citizens in need. Contact Bill Ridgway at 609-548-1039 or william.ridgwayir@wbgrantagency.com for tickets. Register online at barnegatrotary.org.
Southern Regional Football Player
MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations, Southern Regional Football, Justin Silva on his commitment to continue his education and football career at Monmouth University.
C ommunity n eWs
Local Pets Available For Adoption
LACEY – The Associated Humane Society shelter at the Popcorn Park Zoo has pets available for adoption.
Maro’s world recently changed when he was surrendered to the shelter due to his owners moving somewhere pets weren’t allowed. Now, this 4-year-old sweetheart is looking for a second chance at a forever home.
Maro is nestled in his cozy covered bed, taking comfort in the familiar. He may be a little unsure right now, but beneath his quiet
Photo courtesy AHS demeanor is a loving, loyal companion just waiting for the right person to show him he’s home again.
If you’re looking for a gentle, sweet cat who will warm up with love and patience, Maro is ready to meet you. Come visit him today - he’s waiting for someone to give him the love he deserves.
Call 609-693-1900, visit ahscares.org/ forked-river-adoptables or email: office@ ahsppz.org for an adoption application.
Southern Wrestling Place At State Tournament
MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations Southern Wrestling on an outstanding NJSIAA State Individual Wrestling Tournament. Special congratulations to Wyatt Stout 157 lbs. - NJSIAA State Champion. Other place winners: Anthony Mason 113 lbs. – 4th place
Scottie Sari 138 lbs. – 6th place Cade Collins 106 lbs. – 7th place
Wyatt becomes the 5th male wrestler to win the Individual State Championship for Southern. Congratulations all wrestlers, coaches and families.
Join A Heart-Healthy Lunch & Learn
STAFFORD – Mayor Henken and Township Council invite you to join Stafford Recreation, in conjunction with Rutgers University Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, Family Community Health and Sciences Division, to a special Lunch & Learn event with Dr. Kathleen Cullinen as she discusses Heart Health for a Longer Life. Learn valuable insights on maintaining
heart health and simple lifestyle changes that can make a big difference in your well-being. Program will be on May 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Bay Avenue Community Center, 775 East Bay Ave, Stafford Township. Registration is required! To reserve your spot, call Jen McBrien at 609-597-1000 ext. 8573.
Senior Connection Luncheon
LACEY – A St. Patrick’s Day Senior Connection Luncheon will be held on March 28 at the Charles A. Smith Community Center, 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River. Doors open at 11 a.m. Costs are as fol-
lowed: $8 prepaid; $10 register by phone; $12 pay at the door. Prepay at the Recreation Department by March 24. Register by phone at 609-693-1100 ext. 2203 by March 24.
PROTECT YOUR PRECIOUS EYES
that can affect the
such as
which has been linked to several eye
Staying active helps
and high blood pressure. Avoid
When it’s time to have your eyes checked make sure you are seeing the right eye care professional for your needs. An ophthalmologist specializes in eye and vision care and is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. This advanced training allows ophthalmologists to diagnose and treat a wider range of conditions than optometrists and opticians. If it’s been a while since you’ve had an eye exam, make an appointment with SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES (732-349-5622). We offer evening hours most nights of the week.
P.S. Wearing protective glasses while playing sports and doing construction work, home improvement projects, and yard work can go a long way to protect eye health.
OCVTS:
Continued From Page 1
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 Seasideprovided 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.”
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.
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!
Dear Pharmacist
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.
Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).
THERAPIES/SERVICES
• Hormone Replacement
IV Therapies
Thermascan
Cryoskin • HOCATT
Colonics
Atlantic City Electric Advocates For Continued LIHEAP Funding
MAYS LANDING – March 5 is Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Action Day and Atlantic City Electric employees will be on Capitol Hill to meet with representatives and advocates to support LIHEAP funding for vulnerable customers in New Jersey.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps limited-income households with their home energy bills. Customers should act now to seek out assistance –LIHEAP is a first come, first serve program and is only available until funding runs out. Grants are provided in varying amounts (up to $1,200 in New Jersey), with no payback required. Requirements include a household’s income, type of fuel and type of dwelling. Homeowners, renters, roomers, and subsidized housing tenants may also be eligible. Customers do not have to be behind on their bills to receive a grant.
South Jersey customers can apply for LIHEAP energy assistance through the Department of Community Affairs website or by calling 800-510-3102. Residents also can access the Department of Community Affairs self-screening tool to help determine what energy assistance benefits they may qualify for.
“With prices going up for everyday services, programs like LIHEAP have become more crucial for our customers. That’s why it’s so important for us to really push for energy assistance funding,” said David Vosvick, Vice President of Customer Operations at Pepco Holdings, which includes Atlantic City Electric. “Programs like LIHEAP, combined with our ongoing bill assistant programs and initiatives, provide resources and create
more financial stability for our customers who are facing rising costs across the board.”
LIHEAP provides eligible households with a one-time grant to use toward their energy bill. In 2024, Atlantic City Electric helped more than 35,000 customers secure more than $60.6 million in energy assistance, including more than $9.9 million in LIHEAP funding.
If customers do not meet LIHEAP requirements and are having difficulty paying their energy bills, Atlantic City Electric Customer Care is also available to help. Customers can call directly at 800-642-3780 or through the online portal to take advantage of the recently enhanced assistance programs, such as:
• No late payment fees through March
• Longer repayment periods
• Suspending physical disconnections for nonpayment through March
• Waiving deposits for disconnected customers seeking to restore service
Atlantic City Electric customers are also encouraged to explore resources at atlanticcityelectric.com/BillSupport that can help customer reduce their energy usage and lower monthly bills such as:
• Energy efficiency programs
• Financial assistance options
• Billing and payment flexibility tools
LIHEAP Action Day is hosted by the National Energy and Utility Affordability Coalition (NEUAC) and connects advocates from across the country with policymakers on Capitol Hill to communicate the importance of the LIHEAP program. To learn more about LIHEAP Action Day, visit NEAUC.org.
Spring Dinner Food Drive
LONG BEACH – Spring into giving!
St. Francis Human Concerns is collecting donations for their Annual Spring Dinner Project! Help bring warmth to families in need by donating:
• Canned vegetables – corn, green beans, carrots
• Canned pineapple rings
• Instant mashed potatoes & scalloped potatoes
• Pasta
Drop off your donations at the Food Pantry by April 14: 4700 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach. For more information, call 609-494-8861 ext. 197, or visit StFrancisCenterLBI.org. Together, we can make a difference—one meal at a time!
Bowling ‘Fun’d-Raiser
MANAHAWKIN – Join for a Bowling
‘Fun’d-Raiser! The Friends of the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter invite you to a fun-filled event to benefit a great cause on March 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Thunderbird Lanes, 640 E. Bay Avenue, Manahawkin.
Donation costs: Bowlers $30 (includes two games, pizza, and beverages); Cheerleaders
$15 (includes pizza and beverages); Sponsors: Bowlers can ask friends and family to pledge donations!
All of the proceeds will go to support Friends of the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter. RSVP by March 26 to Kathy Gross at 609-978-2474. Let her know how many are in your group and their names for easy check-in. (Space is limited to 120 bowlers.)
C ommunity n e W s
StaffordTwp. 2024 Healthy Town
STAFFORD – The New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute announced the Mayors Wellness Campaign “Healthy Town” winners for 2024. These cities and towns go above and beyond to improve health and wellness in their communities through innovative programs in areas such as exercise, healthy eating, and mental health education and awareness.
The Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC) is a program of the Quality Institute in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. In addition to a record-breaking thirty-two Healthy Town winners, another sixteen towns were designated as 2024 “Healthy Town to Watch,” and seven were designated as 2024 “Healthy Town Up-and-Coming.”
“It’s incredible to see the MWC Healthy Town designations keep growing year after year. It’s proof that New Jersey’s community leaders aren’t just talking about health and wellness; they’re making it,” said Mike Cerra, Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Municipalities. “From small towns to big cities, these leaders are showing up for their residents and building healthier, more vibrant communities.”
Each year, communities participating in the MWC complete a comprehensive Healthy Town application outlining the research they’ve done to identify their community health needs and explaining how they have
organized their local MWC committee. The application also highlights the actions the towns have taken to make their communities healthier places to live, work, age, and play.
For the second year in a row, the Township of Stafford has been designated a Healthy Town. New this year, in partnership with the National Fitness Campaign, the Township built an adult fitness center for residents, enhancing access to physical health opportunities in the community.
“I am so thrilled for the Township of Stafford to be recognized again by the Quality Institute as a 2024 Healthy Town,” said Mayor Robert Henken. “We recognize that health is a way of life. This past year, we were fortunate to receive grant funding to install an adult fitness center at Nautilus Park. This coincides with the start of the Stafford Pathfinders program, started by our MWC volunteers, to form a walking group in the Township. This was part of our MWC this past year and partially funded by the National Fitness Campaign and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Working with our community partners, we will continue to strive to provide new programs and events for all our residents to empower them to improve their health. Thank you to the MWC staff, the Committee and the Township staff for making this a possibility.”
Photo of the Week
After a relatively cold winter, SPRING has finally sprung at the Jersey Shore. Look at these swans in the Beaver Dam Creek of Brick Township. Local resident Joseph Wozniak took the pic and shared it with you. Have a photo you would like to see in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!
Barnegat’s National Vietnam War Veterans Day
BARNEGAT – Welcome home Vietnam Veterans, in memory and honor of all those who served, died, or remain missing in the Vietnam War.
Barnegat’s National Vietnam War Veter-
ans Day will be on March 28 at 3 p.m. at Barnegat High School Main Gym. From 4 to 5 p.m. casual reception with DoD Commemorative Pins, food, refreshments, and various veterans organizations.
Perplexing Plants? Ask A Master Gardener
WARETOWN – The seasons are changing, the weather is warming, and you might be ready to perk up the yard for spring. Free, expert advice is nearby when you “Ask a Master Gardener” at the Ocean County Library Waretown Branch. Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County will meet with you monthly:
• April 12, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• May 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• June 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• July 21, from 1 to 3 p.m.
• August 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• September 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• October 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bring photos or soil and plant samples and receive quality tips. The trained, certified Master Gardener volunteers assist the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County in dispensing valuable information about horticulture, agriculture, community health sciences and marine resources to Ocean County residents, based on the re-
gion’s unique soil and climate conditions. “Ask a Master Gardener” sessions are free and open to the public. No registration is required. For more information, stop by the OCL Waretown Branch, 112 Main Street, or call 609-693-5133. See the full schedule of Library programs in the online Calendar of Events.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
For Rent
Big Storage Containers For Rent - Clean, Dry, Secure. Toms River, Lacey, Bayville, Manahawkin, Tuckerton, New Gretna locations. 609-693-1631. (18)
Pets For Sale
CAVAPOO male pups available - Great disposition,vet chk,shots reds, buff parents on site. Contact 321-377-4000. (15)
Help Save Libby – Urgent Vet Bills Libby needs life-saving treatment. Donate to https://gofund. me/e3c2c90b or call 808-7218189. Every dollar helps! (14)
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.
Saturday, April 5, 7 p.m. Greenbriar Woodlands Clubhouse, 1 Kensington Circle Toms River. Tickets $30Thursday, March 13, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Saturday, March 22, 9:30 - 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 26, 6-7 p.m. Greenbriar Woodlands Clubhouse 1 Kensington Circle Toms River. Questions call Janet 848-224-4761. (15)
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)
I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45. Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782. (11)
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)
CLASSIFIEDS
Services Help Wanted
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full and part time Dietary Aides 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. (17)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a fullcook. 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. (17)
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (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)
Gardeners Wanted – Work independently - garden maintenance, plant care, seasonal planting. Small gardens. Experi-enced or will train. Great business opportunity! Learn and grow. Call Joseph 732-232-8144. (12)
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)
Experienced, Reliable - Private duty (no agency fees) Caregiver/Home Health aide available for live-in, or hourly position South Jersey, Jersey Shore area. Call Nina at 732-8676686. (15)
INCOME TAX ACCOUNTANTSPersonal and small business tax returns.Over 30 years experience. Reasonable fees. Mention this ad and get $20 off. Call for appointment. 732-270-6505. (16)
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)
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.
Mercuro & Sons - Handyman Service General Contracting. License #13VH03469. 732-674-3346. (17)
Monmouth & Ocean MOBILE NOTARY - I come to you. Text or email for rates and availabilty 732-887-6408, Rhansen0114@gmail.com. (13)
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)
TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:
• 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:
Estate/Garage/Yard Sales
Auto For Sale
Items For Sale
Items Wanted
Help Wanted
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.
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The Leatherback Sea Turtle –The Largest Living Sea Turtle
By Renee A. Thomaier
Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
The leatherback sea turtle, one of seven living sea turtles, grows to more than 6.5 feet in length, and can reach a weight of up to 2,000 pounds. They have the greatest migratory distribution on the planet Earth of any reptile. Their shell is not visible like other turtles. Instead, it’s covered by a layer of black or brown leathery skin, referred to as carapace. This carapace is very specialized for reaching extreme depths when diving up
to 4,000 feet. This unique thermoregulatory (Wikipedia - thermoregulation is the ability of an organism to keep its body temperature within certain boundaries, even when the surrounding temperature is very different) adaptation enables them to maintain their body temperatures at extremely cold depths.
Found in tropical, temperate waters worldwide, they reside off both the eastern and western coasts of the United States.
The Virgin Islands, Hawaii and Puerto Rico are also home to these turtles. Their diet is mostly consuming jellyfish, as well
as fi sh, seaweed, crustaceans, and marine invertebrates.
Investigation into, and conservation of this species are hindered due to their migratory and pelagic (living in open waters away from the coast) lifestyle. Information on the leatherback turtle is retrieved by studying them when females migrate to tropical seas where they position themselves onto the beaches for nesting. They spend most of their time at sea.
The leatherback sea turtle is federally listed as endangered, with humans being (Sea Turtle - See Page 24)
ARounD the JeRsey shoRe
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 Lake-
Sea Turtle:
Continued From Page 23
their biggest threat due to poaching. Their eggs and newborns are food for raccoons, birds, and crabs. It’s interesting that if their nest is warm, females are born. The opposite is true that a cooler nest develops males. Immediately after hatching, the young are on their own; getting into the water is crucial for their initial survival from predators. Once they’ve arrived, they must figure things
wood 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.
out without any care from their parents. Their age reaching maturity is approximately 16 years, with an average lifespan thought to be at least 30 years.
I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.
It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.
Photo courtesy The Arc, Ocean County Chapter
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 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.
WARETOWN – Celebrating local music and musicians has always been central to the mission of the Pinelands Cultural Society (PCS), which operates the Albert Music Hall. In honor of the Hall’s 50th Anniversary, PCS revived the Songwriters in the Pines show last year. Following its success, the society is excited to continue the event for another year. On March 23 at 3 p.m., six bands will perform their original music in 30-minute sets at Albert Music Hall. This event provides a great opportunity to hear local bands, discover new music, and support New Jersey’s musical community. For this show, the event organizers will expand the usual rules and genres to offer a diverse musical experience. The lineup is as follows: Mark Miklos, Greg
Christopher R. Shea Esq.
Songwriters In The Pines
McGarvey, Wherever You Are, Cranston Dean, Billy T Midnight, and Jenny Barnes Band.
Doors will open at 2:30 p.m., and the music begins at 3 p.m. Admission is free, with a suggested optional donation of $5 to support the Hall. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artists and browse their merchandise.
The food booth will be offering hot dogs, kielbasa and kraut, and meatballs as well as a selection of beverages and desserts. The gift shop will also be open featuring a selection of Pinelands and music souvenirs. The Hall is wheelchair accessible and parking is free. Information about the Albert Hall is available at alberthall.org.
Manahawkin United Women In Faith Seeking Vendors For Fair
MANAHAWKIN – The Manahawkin United Women In Faith are looking for vendors for an indoor/outdoor Vendor Fair on May 3. Contact Beth at 609-618-3668 for additional information.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Surfer’s link
Singer DiFranco
__ buco: veal dish
“Mermaids” co-
Mustachioed guy on “The Simpsons”
Longtime Hydrox rival
Cause __: megas-
Counteract
Short-legged hound
Director Preminger 52 They’re hard to argue with
Former Apple messaging app
Reagan attorney general Ed
“This Is Us” net-
Ol mpicos goal
Announcement be-
Feature of many seascapes
“That is ... “
Wetlands growths
Website revenue
Young newts
Outrage
Sports radio host Patrick
FOR THE WEEK OF MAR 22 - MAR 28 BY
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.
JERALDINE 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.
KOREAN FLAVORS ENLIVEN THIS SIMPLE WEEKNIGHT DISH OF SPICY CHICKEN AND SLAW
By
America’s Test Kitchen
GOCHUJANG CHICKEN TENDERLOINS WITH KIMCHI COLESLAW
