Two Schools Awarded Grants For Healthy Drinking Water
By Alyssa Riccardi
Schools grants.
HOWELL – Two schools within the Howell Township Public School District have been awarded a total of $4,000 in Sustainable Jersey for
$2,000 to New Jersey schools.
The grants are funded by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) which overall have sponsored 13 grants worth $10,000 and 27 grants worth
These grants go towards supporting sustainability initiatives, including outdoor gardens and classrooms; composting, waste re-
duction and recycling programs; student health and wellness; inclusive, diverse and equitable school environments; biodiversity projects and
(Water - See Page 2)
The Flash Speeds Things Up On New Roller Coaster
County Reaches Agreement With Local Airport
By Alyssa Riccardi
WALL – Monmouth County officials and the owner of the Monmouth Executive Airport have communicated and discussed the future of the airport.
Back in September 2024, county officials stated that the airport has been declining for years. Improvement to its infrastructure or facilities had been very minimal.
International aviation consulting fi rm, Merchant Aviation, LLC, were commissioned by the County to conduct an analysis of the airport, examining its conditions and amenities to determine if it is safe.
After the analysis, Merchant Aviation
determined more time is needed to investigate potentially concerning conditions at the airport.
According to Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone, county representatives had heard “disturbing reports from a variety of sources about the condition of the airport and its supporting facilities.” Arnone also stated that he had recently toured the airport and had his own concerns about its safety and fi nancial viability.
Recently, Arnone and Monmouth Executive Airport Owner Alan Antaki met with their respective counsel to discuss the airport, both sharing concerns and identifying common goals so that the
airport can continue to thrive and serve the community.
On March 13, the Monmouth County Board of Commissioners introduced a resolution to conclude the discussion surrounding the County’s interest to acquire the airport by eminent domain.
“This meeting marked an important step forward in our path to securing a brighter future for Monmouth Executive Airport,” said Arnone. “Preliminary findings from our outside consultant Merchant Aviation, together with recent positive updates, give us the assurances we needed. In the last five months, we have learned that Mr. Antaki has secured
(Airport - See Page 2)
By Bob Vosseller JACKSON –
Six Flags
Great Adventure has officially launched its latest flashy roller coaster and this one is named after the scarlet speedster of DC Comics fame.
The Flash Vertical Velocity got its debut recently. Park management invited the media and coaster enthusiasts to a preview a few days prior to the public’s general admission.
Riders noted that while the ride lasts around 60 seconds the adventure isn’t gone in a “flash” as the memory of lingers for a whole lot longer. You need to be at least 48 inches to ride which is actually smaller than some of the other Six Flags coasters. It has a maximum height restriction which this 6’2” reporter cleared and reached the head rest and met all other safety
protocols for what was an exhilarating ride on 1,400 feet of track.
American Coaster Enthusiasts is a national organization whose members were well represented during the day. Matthew and Lauren Kaiser of Monmouth County rode during the commercial shoot and also during the preview.
Lauren, the group’s assistant regional representative for New Jersey, said “The company who developed (the roller coaster) is from the Netherlands. They have a really popular roller coaster model called the Boomerang and that is kind of roller coaster you saw at smaller parks across the country. There are a ton of those.”
“This is their evolution on that as a super Boomerang and much, much better.
(Coaster - See Page 3)
Photo courtesy Monmouth Jet Center
The Monmouth Executive Airport has reached an agreement with county government.
Photo by Bob Vosseller Riders enjoy an arch of The Flash Vertical Velocity, the newest roller coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure.
Water:
Continued From Page 1
student safety.
In Howell School District, Greenville and Land O’ Pines Elementary Schools were each awarded a $2,000 grant. Both schools will be using these grants to upgrade their traditional water fountains to include a bottle filler station for staff and students. This is a part of Sustainable Jersey’s Ac-
cess to Healthy Drinking Water in Schools movement. The goal is to ensure that clean and healthy drinking water is available to all students during the school day and to promote water as the primary hydration option, according to Sustainable Jersey’s website. It also promotes a variety of strategies that schools can use to ensure that drinking water is available to all students and that there are systems in place to evaluate the current water supply and take any necessary steps
toward improving infrastructure, water provision, and education
“This bottle filler will allow students and staff to refill reusable water bottles instead of buying and throwing away plastic bottles. This would be both environmentally friendly as we aim to avoid throwing more plastic into landfills and more cost effective for students, families, and the school community,” said Greenville School Principal Danielle Palazzolo. “Additionally, this
would increase the health and safety of students, staff, and the school community when utilizing water bottle filling stations verses the traditional water fountains. Greenville School looks forward to making our school as sustainable as possible to ensure a healthy Earth for our children’s future.”
“We are so excited to receive this Sustainable grant for our school,” said Land O’Pines School Principal Joseph Fiore. “Adding a Water Bottle Filling Station for our staff and students will lead to improved health not only by increasing the intake of water for our students rather than sugary drinks, but also by improving the quality of the water consumed due to having a filtered system for water bottle filling. We are looking forward to having this in place in our school in the near future!”
Airport:
Continued From Page 1
the fi nancing to retire his outstanding debt, received a $1M grant for repairs and enhancements to the airport’s runway, and has made a commitment to ensure the airport remains an airport for years to come.”
A key component is the county’s proposal to establish joint programs between Monmouth Executive Airport and Brookdale Community College, which would provide students with hands-on training for careers in all facets of airport operations. The idea was supported by Antaki who has for many years promoted aviation education in Monmouth County by personally assisting Boy Scouts earn their aviation merit badges at the airport. He also funds introductory flight lessons for Wall Township middle and high school students.
According to a press release, other topics discussed included:
• Granting the county a “right of fi rst refusal” to ensure the property remains an airport for generations to come.
• Exploring additional community programs to enhance public engagement.
• Supporting the county’s emergency medical service MEDSTAR program.
• Providing a letter of support to advance additional fi nancing opportunities for runway and taxiway improvements and the construction of new hangars, among other amenities.
In addition, the Monmouth Executive Airport applied for and has received a $1M grant for repairs and enhancements to the airport’s runway.
“We welcome this new chapter with Monmouth County and share a commitment to making Monmouth Executive Airport an even greater asset to the community for generations to come,” said Antaki. “Our investments in infrastructure and training will benefit both aviation professionals and local businesses, and I am proud to share it with all who utilize, work for, and live near Monmouth Executive Airport.”
Merchant Aviation has been directed to conclude its report, which is expected to identify other opportunities for the parties to collaborate in the future, county officials stated.
Coaster:
Continued From Page 1
The company overall has really changed. Their coasters are so smooth now compared to before. This was super smooth and gives you great bank time on the first element of the station where you hang upside down for just so long,” added Matthew, who serves as the Regional Representative for New Jersey. He said, “it is really interesting because it has a kind of linear footprint here. There aren’t too many turns as it is side to side and you do rolls and whips. The coaster is kind of built on top of itself here so it has an interesting design constraint now.”
Lauren described The Flash saying, “I loved it. It was a lot of fun. I was very pleasantly surprised by it. I think a lot of people were concerned about the fact that it is a
shuttle coaster and that it goes out and back, but I was surprised - especially about the hang time specifically right after you come out of the station there after the launch.”
“That experience of going backwards is also very cool. Everything you get to feel forward you get to experience backwards as well which is a whole new perspective. When you are going backwards you are not expecting because you can’t see it so I think it adds that whole element of surprise,” she said.
The couple met while at a Great Adventure event. “I did work here a long time ago and my boss introduced us. He brought his friend Matt to Fright Fest and so we hung out and it went from there. He proposed to me in front of the Nitro rollercoaster.”
The organization’s president Elizabeth Ringas said the group has a membership of “just over 7,000 members now worldwide.
We are the largest amusement enthusiast related organization, and we just like to keep bringing people together to share their hobby and have fun for a healthy lifestyle. Our biggest mission is preservation. We want to make sure the coasters keep rolling. particularly at small family-owned parks.”
“That is why we come out to support something like this. We love helping and this is reminding people to come out and make special memories with their families,” Ringas added.
Another new attraction at the amusement park involves the food. Jeremy Hacker is the park’s fi rst Executive Chef in an effort to elevate customers’ dining experience this year.
Hacker is known for his skill in seafood and Italian cuisine. He will lead the park’s culinary team to offer a variety of exciting dining options that complement the park’s
A Concert For A Cause
HOWELL – Join us for “A Concert for a Cause” benefiting the Frances Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer. They will be partnering with Congregation Ahavat Olam in Howell to present the award-winning Liberty Oak Chorus. The Liberty Oak Chorus will be entertaining us with their unique and enriching musical choir experience for an enjoyable afternoon! This concert will take place at Congregation Ahavat Olam, 106 Windeler Road, Howell, on May 18 at 1 p.m. The cost to attend the concert is only $12 per person. Everyone is invited to attend this exciting event in support of the
Frances Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer. Liberty Oak Chorus, of Howell, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, is dedicated to advancing women’s a cappella singing in the barbershop style. Liberty Oak Chorus’ membership consists of women from many different walks of life who travel from 48 different towns in 13 different counties and three states each week to share a common bond - the love of singing. The Frances Foundation was started by a group of caring friends, neighbors and community who originally came together as
an outgrowth of the idea of the founder Bob Huegle, who wanted to honor his mother, Frances, who lost her battle with cancer in 2000. Because of her deep love for children, he wanted to give back to her community and others in need. Other than the joy of knowing they are helping children and families in need, no member of the Frances Foundation family accepts any payment for their work. How you can support The Frances Foundations for Kids Fighting Cancer: The Frances Foundation provides smiles and hope to our Warriors with individual surprises and fun
world-class attractions.
“I am obviously super excited to be working at a theme park which is a great place to work,” the new chef said during the afternoon while roller coaster enthusiasts had the opportunity to try some of his Flash cupcakes - complete with lighting streak icing - and a variety of sweet treats.
“Whether it’s introducing new offerings or elevating classic dishes, my goal is to offer guests a memorable dining experience that matches the thrill of the park,” Hacker added.
“We have to keep innovating and keeping it fresh,” Fitzgerald said. “We think forward.”
She noted that future plans will be announced in August regarding park expansion projects. The theme park was ready to flash forward with all its attractions this summer season and into the fall with a fresh scare on Fright Fest.
group events! They also provide financial assistance to families to alleviate the financial burden during this difficult time. For more information about The Frances Foundation, visit their website: francesfoundation.net RSVP by May 10 by emailing: Sisterhood@ CAO-NJ.org. Please make your checks for $12 per person payable to “CAO Sisterhood” and mail to: Janet Seltzer, 8 Colonial Court, Howell, NJ 07731.
Mark your calendars today and join for this wonderful, uplifting musical program that your entire family will enjoy!
STORE HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9am-6pm • Sunday: 8am-4pm CLOSED EASTER SUNDAY
O RDER Y OUR E ASTER C ATERING E ARLY !
Holiday Meats!
• Boneless Leg of Lamb (Plain or Seasoned)
• Rack of Lamb
• Standing Prime Rib Roast
• Eye Round Roast Beef (Plain or Seasoned)
• Boneless Loin of Pork (Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed)
• Fresh Ham (Plain or Seasoned)
• Spiral Ham
Fresh Porketta
Holiday A La Carte
PASTA
Penne Vodka.…………………………………$50
Stu ed Shells…………………………………$50
Manicotti……………………………………...$50
Orecchiette (sausage & broccoli rabe) ………$55
Linguini with Clams ………………………….$55
Rigatoni Bolognese…………………………...$55
Baked Ziti...……………………………………$45
Cavatelli & Broccoli...………………………… $50
Meat Lasagna.....………………………………$60
Cheese Lasagna.....……………………………$50
Rice Primavera (fresh vegetables) ……………$50
CHICKEN
Marsala or Francese………………………….$60
Bella Italia (white wine & mushroom).………$65
Parmigiana.…………………………………...$55
Saltimbocca (prosciuto, spinach, fresh mozzarella)…$65
Chicken Florentine (spinach, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella).………………………………… . .$65
VEAL
Marsala.………………………………………$80
Francese....……………………………………$80
Parmigiana.…………………………………...$80
Bella Italia (white wine & mushroom).………$85
BEEF & PORK
Grilled Steak Marsala. ..………………………$70
Roast Pork with Gravy..………………………$60
Sausage, Peppers & Onion. ………………… $60
Homemade Meatballs..………………………$60
Roast Beef with Gravy...………………………$65
Steak Pizzaiola.......……………………………$70
Hot or Sweet Sausage w/Broccoli Rabe..……$65 VEGETABLES
Eggplant Parmigiana…………………………$55
Eggplant Rollatini.……………………………$55
Broccoli Rabe Sauteed...……………………...$60
Sauteed String Beans w/Garlic & Oil.………...$55
Stu ed Mushrooms Oreganata……………...$55
Stu ed Mushrooms w/Sausage……………...$60
Oven Roasted Potatoes……………………....$50
Sauteed Broccoli w/Garlic
Sign Language Students Learn New Ways Of Expressing Themselves Around The Jersey shore
By Chris Lundy BERKELEY
– When you pass through the Central Regional Middle School library, there’s a sign telling you to be quiet. But there are ways to communicate without making a sound.
Students at both the middle and high schools have been learning American Sign Language to better interact with those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
The idea started as a club during the height of the pandemic and now it has grown to a 10-week program. For one marking period, kids can choose this from other 10-week options, Assistant Principal Kevin Buscio said.
A classroom grows out of the back of the middle school library. The desks are situated in a U shape, so that everyone can see each other’s faces and hands. Seeing the gestures is done for obvious reasons, but the facial features add to the meaning.
Jennifer Lozada taught the class. She would sometimes slip into full sentences where the students knew most of the signs and they would have to pick up the rest from context clues.
Part of taking attendance was that the class had to spell the absent student’s name with signs. They did a basic math puzzle and signed the numbers involved.
One student went around to each class -
mate and signed “How are you?” The other students signed back such things as “happy,” “sad,” “nervous” and even “invisible.”
They broke into small groups to communicate with each other. “Sign language is more fun for me,” one student said.
“It’s interactive. We play games,” another said.
Sometimes, they’ll have visitors, such as Dr. Isidore (Dr. Izzy) Kirsh from Garden State Hearing And Balance Center. They’ve also hosted a Deaf couple who taught lessons and answered questions.
A Central Regional Middle School student makes the rounds, asking in American Sign Language how his fellow students are doing. The other students signed back their answer.
Sometimes, they’ll be the visitors. They have traveled to Ocean Gate and Island Heights elementary schools and prepared a lesson for the students. This not only reinforces their own learning – because being able to teach someone a subject requires a high level of understanding – but it also gets the younger kids excited about learning this subject when they get to the middle school.
In ASL1, the subjects involve basic vocabulary, fingerspelling, and numbers. The themes of personal life, family life, school life, and social life are explored. More complex sentences and concepts are taught in ASL2, with the intent to broaden their development of American Sign Language and give them the tools to communicate more detailed concepts.
Photos by Chris Lundy
Patricia Durkin substitute taught the class at the high school.
s PoTLIGhT o n G oVernMenT
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Smith: Hearing Focuses On Human Rights Abuses Behind China’s Mining Operations
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) controversial actions in Africa’s mining sector and its damage to human rights, exacerbation of labor exploitation and regional instability - particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Ethiopia and Ghana - were the focus of a congressional hearing chaired by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), chairman of the House Foreign Affair Subcommittee on Africa.
Experts testified on how Beijing’s resource-driven policies contribute to child forced labor, geopolitical tensions across the continent, and threaten U.S. national security.
“The greatest beneficiaries of this system - China’s state-owned mining companies - remain silent, refusing to confront an undeniable reality: from dirt to battery, from cobalt to cars, the entire supply chain is built on violence, exploitation, and corruption. This must change - and the time for change is now,” Smith said. “President Trump’s Executive Order for ‘Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production’ is a crucial step toward strengthening our domestic supply chains. This action will cre-
ate American jobs, drive economic growth, reduce our reliance on foreign adversaries, and make us stronger at home. The United States must break its dependence on minerals that finance the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) - often extracted through forced child labor - and stop indirectly supporting the CCP’s efforts to fuel instability and regional conflict in Africa.”
“At the same time, as the CCP tightens its grip on global mineral markets, the U.S. must take decisive action. In line with this strategy, the U.S. Department of State has signaled openness to forming direct critical mineral partnerships with DRC - an opportunity to strengthen collaboration in securing resources essential for our technological advancement and national security,” Smith said.
Strategies to counter the CCP’s exploitative practices and seek more ethical sourcing of metals and minerals vital to global supply chains, and to economies of the continent, were discussed by witnesses: Sasha Lezhnev, Senior Policy Advisor, The Sentry; Thierry Dongala, Founder, Accountable Africa; Joseph Mulala Nguramo, nonresident Fel-
low, Atlantic Council Scowcroft Center; and Obert Bore, Responsible Business & Human Rights Program Lead, Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association.
Mr. Lezhnev stated to the subcommittee, “China made a strategic decision a decade ago to procure critical minerals and has spent well over $10 billion acquiring mines across Africa and elsewhere in the world, and it has established monopolies over some of them. These minerals have spurred China’s development and have had a direct impact on its EV industry, with Chinese EVs being sold much cheaper than U.S. or European models. China is now sub-Saharan Africa’s largest trading partner, which stands in sharp contrast to the 1990s, when Europe and the US dominated African markets… Such investment has come with significant corruption. It is perhaps no accident that the African countries that export the most to China also have some of the world’s worst corruption ratings.”
Mr. Dongala told the congressional panel, “Chinese companies are all too willing to circumvent artisanal mining regulations and the overall USD system. This effectively hands
over vast swaths of the artisanal gold trade to Chinese influence and even encourages governments to confiscate gold mines, which are often owned by U.S investors, to hand them over to Chinese operators.”
Mr. Nguramo stated, “China routinely operates in the shadows of governments that lack transparency, and care little for Accountability, Transparency, Human Rights and Democracy. I wish to argue that political and social stability and prosperity in the DRC is essential to US National Security. And the United States should play a leading role in the stabilization of the region...But China has, instead, mastered strategies to take advantage of a country in chaos - often bribing government officials to acquire Mining concessions.”
Smith announced that he introduced, yesterday, H.R.2310, the COBALT Supply Chain Act, which he says “ensures that goods made using or containing cobalt refined in the People’s Republic of China do not enter the United States market under the presumption that the cobalt is extracted or processed with the use of child and forced labor in the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
Booker: Bill Would Reimburse Farmers Money Withheld By Feds
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Honor Farmer Contracts Act, legislation to release illegally withheld funding for all contracts and agreements previously entered into by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
President Trump’s USDA has refused to make reimbursement payments to fulfi ll signed contracts, without any indication of when or whether farmers will be paid the money they laid out and are owed. Farmers and the organizations that serve them operate on tight margins and cannot be left waiting for weeks and months without funding they rightfully planned for and need to keep operating. This legislation would require the USDA to pay farmers all past due payments as quickly as possible to prevent them from having to shut down their operations. U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02) will introduce companion legislation in the House. When farmers successfully apply to USDA programs and then spend their own dollars in reliance upon signed contracts with the agency, they rightfully expect that they will receive reimbursement. Similarly, farmer-serving organizations - which farmers rely upon to connect to
local markets and implement practices that make them more productive and less resource intensive - are facing imminent funding crises from not being reimbursed for completed or in-progress contracted work. If not quickly made whole, these organizations will be forced to make agonizing decisions to lay off staff and stop helping farmers, destroying years of progress in advancing local food systems.
The Honor Farmer Contracts Act would: Require USDA to unfreeze all signed agreements and contracts; Require USDA to make all past due payments as quickly as possible; Prohibit USDA from cancelling agreements or contracts with farmers or organizations providing assistance to farmers unless there has been a failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the agreement or contract.
Prohibit USDA from closing any Farm Service Agency county office, Natural Resources Conservation Service field office or Rural Development Service Center without providing 60 days prior notice and justification to Congress.
“Farmers across the country have been in limbo ever since the USDA froze previously signed agreements and contracts, with
many facing catastrophic consequences if these freezes continue,” said Senator Booker. “USDA’s refusal to pay what is owed to farmers and the organizations that support them is theft, plain and simple. It’s a critical time of year for farmers and ranchers. They should be doing what they love – feeding our communities, not worrying about unpaid contracts. This legislation will fi x that by forcing USDA and the Trump Administration to hold up their end of the deal.”
“Over the last two months, farmers, ranchers, and rural communities have been left in limbo - waiting for the USDA to honor its promises,” said Representative Vasquez. “The Honor Farmer Contracts Act is about restoring trust and keeping our word to the hardworking people who feed America. When farmers sign contracts, they expect the government to follow through. It’s that simple. This bill will immediately unfreeze critical funding, ensure farmers are paid for their work, and reopen essential USDA offices that were shuttered without notice. This legislation is standing up for rural America, protecting family farms, and strengthening our food system. Let’s do right by our farmers - because when they thrive, we all do.”
“Regardless of the size of the farm, the crops grown, or the geographic location, interrupting or terminating farmer contracts undermines our nation’s economic, military, and food security, and as a whole hampers community efforts to support the overall well-being of Americans,” said Devin Cornia, Executive Director, Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey.
“On Farm Aid’s hotline, we’re hearing from farmers and farmer-serving organizations who have frozen and canceled federal funding, and we know these are only a few of the thousands from around the country,” said Hannah Tremblay, Farm Aid’s policy and advocacy manager. “USDA’s withholding of payments owed under signed, lawful contracts is causing turmoil across our food system - and it couldn’t come at a worse time. As farmers plan their growing season, uncertainty is among the most dangerous elements they have to grapple with. The effects of this funding freeze are likely to compound and severely impact all aspects of our food system – from seed and soil, to farmer and consumer. Farm Aid fully supports the Honor Farmer Contracts Act to end this unlawful freeze now!”
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.
Township Observes Alcohol Awareness Month
HOWELL – During April Is Alcohol Awareness Month, people of all ages - from teens through seniors - are encouraged learn more about the effects of consuming alcohol; alcohol use disorder; alcohol misuse’s negative impacts on physical, mental, and social well-being; and support resources for those impacted by problematic alcohol consumption.
Excessive alcohol use increases the odds of alcohol overdoses and poisonings, injuries, poor pregnancy outcomes, sexual and physical assaults, motor vehicle crashes, homicides, suicides, risk-taking, disregard for consequences, unhealthy relationships, and chronic diseases (such as mental and behavioral disorders, liver and heart disease, and cancer).
Consuming alcohol under the legal age of 21 can interfere with normal brain development and increase the chance of alcohol use disorder across a lifetime, in addition to the risks mentioned above.
Read “Underage Drinking and Teen Alcohol Use” for more information on the dangers of underage alcohol use: helpguide.org/articles/addictions/underage-drinking.htm.
Alcohol use disorder is one of the mental disorders with the lowest treatment
rates due to a lack of awareness, denial, stigma, shame, low risk perception, social normalization, and limited access to support resources.
To shed light on alcohol misuse, eradicate the stigma surrounding alcoholism, and provide community members with support resources, the Howell Alliance will commemorate April Is Alcohol Awareness Month with a proclamation at the April 15th Howell Township Council meeting, banners displayed at town hall and Howell High School, electronic message board announcements at town hall and Soldier Memorial Park, and Friends of the Howell Alliance Facebook posts ( facebook.com/groups/howellalliancefriends).
Here are support resources for those affected by alcohol misuse:
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): aa.org (support resources and meetings)
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 800-662-4357 (free, 24/7, and confidential helpline)
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): niaaa.nih.gov (alcohol misuse information and support resources)
PAL Track & Field Clinic
HOWELL – This program is designed to be a self-improvement program. The objective is to improve your own personal times each week they are recorded, while building stamina and strength, through the various activities covered during the course of the program. A long-distance lane will also be provided for those who are interested in this field of training.
Tentative Schedule of Events:
• Week 1: Introduce and practice the 50, 100, 200, & 400 meter events
• Week 2: Introduce baton passing & relay
• Week 3: Begin recording times for the 50, 100, 200, & 400 meter events
• Week 4: Practice baton event and continue timing events
• Week 5: In house track meet!
Don’t miss the 15-minute warm up session - designed to reduce the possibility of injury Please have participant wear sneakers, loose attire, provide your own water bottle. Please use bathroom facility prior to attending program.
Must register by April 7. Register at howellpal.org.
Howell Night At Jersey Shore BlueClaws
HOWELL – Howell Night at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws will be on July 24, 7:05 p.m. start time. Cost is $18 and includes: reserve seat ticket, hot dog, soda, novelty ice cream and boardwalk game ticket.
Visit the Guest Services Kiosk behind home plate on the concourse to pick up your boardwalk game tickets and food
vouchers. If you any questions regarding this outing, email kvallieu@blueclaws. com. You can also contact Steven Fecher at 732-938-4500 or sfecher@twp.howell. nj.us.
All tickets can be purchased through online at fevo-enterprise.com/event/ Howelltwpnight25.
Howell Elks Seeking Candy Donations
HOWELL – The Howell Elks Lodge is seeking candy donations to help fi ll the eggs of their upcoming Easter Egg Hunt and Lunch with the Easter Bunny. Drop off candy donations in bin. The event will be held on April 13. This is a rain or
shine event. Lunch to be served at 12 p.m. followed by Easter Egg Hunt and photos with Easter Bunny.
For reservations, contact Connie Cantwell at 732-259-9666 or cantwellconnie@yahoo. com.
C oMMunITy n eWs
HOWELL – The Howell Police Department thanks St. Veronica Troop 300 for inviting Lt. Hochhauser to their meeting for an interview so they could complete their Citizenship of Community Merit Badge Requirement and the First Class Rank Requirement 9a. It is always a privilege to speak to young men and woman who care so much about the community.
Police Officer Visits Local Scouts Local Chorus To Host Music Program
HOWELL – Liberty Oak Chorus will host a four-week comprehensive music program
“Class of 2025” beginning April 3 at 7 p.m. in Howell. Applicants will learn four-part a cappella singing techniques and have the opportunity to perform with the chorus in their upcoming spring show on June 8. Women of all ages are welcome to attend. The program is free. Schedule of events are as follows:
Week 1
• Chorus performance
• Breakdown of the four-part a cappella style
• Learn about each part in terms of singer responsibility & voice range
• You will meet our music team leaders who will help you find your voice range & singing part.
• Song introduction learning process through our digital chorus tools, including sheet music downloads and learning tracks by voice part.
Week 2
• Review new music
• Meet the visual team to learn about visual performance
• Deep dive into vocal techniques & chorus process: vowels, breathing, competition, coaching, assessments
Week 3
• Meet the Liberty Oak Chorus Board of Directors and learn about chorus management.
• Learn about chorus committees, financials, member commitment, and the Sweet Adelines Regional/International organization
• Meet Master Director Katie Blackwood
Week 4
• Join in for physical and vocal warm-ups
• Participants will be placed on the risers in position to perform with Liberty Oak Chorus.
• Sing the song learned during the program.
• Graduation - welcome to the class of 2025 where participants will get a free gift commemorating their musical experience. Participants can reserve their spot by contacting Carol@Meaney.com.
SERVING...
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DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES
Photo courtesy Howell Police
Photo courtesy Liberty Oak Chorus
Join Ramtown Fire Company’s Jr. Firefi ghter Program
RAMTOWN – Something else you may not know about the Ramtown Fire Company is that we have a Jr. Firefighter program. Mentored by a group of advisors, young members between 16 to 18 years of age can join to learn the trade in a controlled environment.
Jr. Firefi ghters participate in certain in-house hands-on training and they also attended the Monmouth County Fire Academy Jr. Firefighter program. The whole time preparing to go through the FF1/FF2 Academy to become certified fi refighters.
If you are or have a young individual that is interested in learning life savings skills and getting involved in the community, give us a call, stop at the station Saturday mornings or Tuesday nights.
Educational Professionals Of The Year Recognized
FREEHOLD – Each year, teachers and educational professionals from every school in the Freehold Regional High School District are selected to be honored in the Monmouth County Governor’s Educator of the Year Program.
As part of this initiative, we are recognizing the recipients for the 2024-2025 academic year in a Staff Spotlight series. This week, we are featuring Danielle Dagato, an occupational therapist in the district who has been named Educational Professional of the Year at Colts Neck and Freehold High Schools.
Ms. Dagato is a graduate of Manalapan
High School. When her name was announced as the Educational Professional of the Year at both schools, she expressed her surprise.
In her role as an occupational therapist, she provides services to students in need across many schools within the Freehold Regional High School District.
“I enjoy helping students accomplish tasks they have previously struggled with or learn new skills,” she stated.
When asked what advice she would give to someone entering the field, Ms. Dagato encouraged them to “keep pursuing your dreams, seek mentorship, and push yourself.”
Howell Heritage & Historical Society Upcoming Events
HOWELL – 2025 special events will begin with the Schoolhouse Tour organized by the Monmouth County Historical Commission on April 5. The Easter Bunny will also make a surprise visit to the school on April 5 as well.
The school will also participate in the Weekend in Old Monmouth which will be held on May 3 and 4.
be celebrating the History of the Easter Parade. Among the bunnies and eggs, there will be displays of historic Easter Parade photos, and there will be souvenirs for everyone who joins the fun by wearing their Easter Bonnets!
On April 19, the MacKenzie Museum will
The MacKenzie Museum will also be participating in the Weekend at Old Monmouth, May 3 and 4.
Easter In The Park
–
In
on April 5 at
from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come enjoy a family fun event featur-
egg hunts, music, games, food, face painting, petting zoo and a special guest appearance from the Easter Bunny!
Egg hunt times are as followed: Ages 5 & under – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Ages 6 to 7 – 12:30 p.m.
Ages 8 to 10 – 1 p.m.
Make sure to bring a basket! Rain date is April 6.
HOWELL
The Township of Howell presents Easter
The Park
Oak Glen Park
Photo courtesy Freehold Regional High School District
Photo courtesy Ramtown Fire Company
C oMMunITy n eWs
Local Animals Ready For Adoption
MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Monmouth County SPCA has a number of pets available for adoption.
Ashleigh is a new kitty here at our Eatontown shelter that came from another shelter in NJ. Ashleigh is a laidback, gentle, and snuggly girl who just wants a human to cuddle up with. Ashleigh is around 6 & 1/2 years young and would love a mellow home with lots of unconditional love, playtime, and cozy spots to enjoy.
Photo courtesy MCSPCA
We’re not sure how Ashleigh feels about other kitties but we’re open to exploring her options!
The MCSPCA only does adoptions in person (please bring all family members). They will ask you to fi ll out an Adoption Survey and speak with an Adoption Counselor to help fi nd your perfect match. They are located at 260 Wall Street in Eatontown. They can be reached at 732542-0040.
Breakfast Networking Event
HOWELL – Join the Howell Chamber of Commerce for a Breakfast Bonanza Networking on April 8 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Big City Bagels, 4007 Route 9, Aldrich Road, Howell.
Meet other chamber members, network with local businesses, share what’s happening with your business and any upcoming events/promotions.
Cost to attend is $5 for members, $10 for not yet members, whether you eat or not (cash only). New year, new schedule, new fee! As of January 2025, we will have a new fee for our Breakfast Bonanza Networking meetings.
Not yet members are welcome to attend up to two Chamber meetings/events. For more information, visit howellchamber.com.
Howell First Aid and Rescue Squad Annual Golf Outing
HOWELL – Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad #1 will be hosting their 5th Annual Golf Outing fundraiser on June 9 at Pebble Creek Golf Club in Colts Neck.
Registration and breakfast start at 7:30 a.m. and shotgun start is at 9 a.m. Lunch
immediately follows with awards and prizes.
As always, they are looking for sponsorship’s, donations and golfers. Reach out at HTFARSgolfouting@gmail.com or text/ call 732-618-8596 for more information.
The Howell Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!
Around The Jersey shore
Monmouth County Park System Fills April With Fun
LINCROFT – This April, the Monmouth County Park System is showering local residents with fun – the Spring Craft Show, Earth Day Open House, nature walks, and so much more!
Here’s what’s planned for the month:
Milling Demonstrations – April 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 19 & 20 and 26 & 27 at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m., Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold. See the 19th century gristmill grind corn into meal. Each demonstration lasts approximately 15 minutes.
Climb Time – April 6 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Shark River Park, Wall. Try the Park System’s 25’ portable climbing wall. You must be 42” or taller to climb. Open to ages 8 and up; under 18 with adult.
Splendid Spring Stroll – April 9 from 10 at 11:30 a.m. at Freneau Woods Park, Aberdeen - Meet in the Visitor Center parking lot; April 30 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Clayton Park, Upper Freehold - Meet in the Emley’s Hill parking lot. Welcome the season by joining a Park System Naturalist on a peaceful trail walk through the park. Sturdy footwear is recommended as trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over.
Spring Craft Show – April 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fort Monmouth Recreation Center, Tinton Falls. This seasonal craft show features 40 + local artists and crafters.
Admission and parking are free.
Open Shoot Archery – April 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Thompson Park Activity Barn, Lincroft. All equipment is provided for this open shoot. No outside equipment permitted. This is not an instructional clinic and NOT designed for beginners. If you are new to archery, register for one of our instructional classes prior to attending. Open to ages 10 and up; under 18 with adult. The cost is $10 per person; cash or check only.
Accordion Melodies of the 1890s – April 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel. Hear melodies of the 1890s played on the accordion during your visit.
Cookstove Demonstration – April 12 & 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel. See what’s cooking on the woodstove and discover how recipes, cooking techniques, and kitchens have changed since the 1890s.
Seashore Open House – April 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park Activity Center, Long Branch. Stop in during our annual Open House for some fun by the sea. Engaging hands-on activities will entertain and educate you and your family about the shore and the ocean. Speak with a Park System Naturalist about your own shell collection or the aquatic animals on display. Free admission and parking.
Seabrook-Wilson House Open – April 20 & 27; April 21 & 28; and April 24 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth. Visit this house, which dates back to the early 1700s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and see displays on the ecology of the bay and local history
Earth Day Planting – April 22 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Holmdel Park, Holmdel - Use the Forest Edge parking lot. Join a Park System Naturalist as we restore our native forests. Your actions will provide valuable food and shelter for local wildlife. Supplies provided, but plants are limited.
Nature Lecture: Skate Fish Along the Jersey Shore – April 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, Port Monmouth. Skates are flattened fish related to sharks and rays and live in the waters off the New Jersey coast. Learn more about this unique fish that calls the Jersey Shore home during this talk by a Park System Naturalist.
Earth Day Open House – April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Huber Woods Environmental Center, Middletown. Celebrate Earth Day with live animal displays, guided nature walks, crafts and more. Local nature organizations will be on hand to provide valuable information.
Wool Days/Sheep Shearing – April 26 & 27 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet
Farm, Holmdel. See the farm staff use traditional blade shearing practices to remove the fleece from our sheep. Gene Sheninger will return with his collies to demonstrate their herding skills.
Earth Day Beach Cleanups – April 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth; April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park Activity Center, Long Branch. Help clean our coastline of trash and plastic debris while discovering more about the local environment.
Wood Carving Demonstration – April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel. See how the wood carver whittles a block of wood into a beautiful work of art.
Casual Birder – April 29 at 9 a.m. at Big Brook Park, Marlboro. Join a Park System Naturalist for this laid-back morning bird walk and meander for about an hour and a half and see what birds we can find. Participants should expect to be walking a few miles (2 to 4) on sometimes uneven or muddy terrain. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy this walk. A limited number of binoculars will be available on a first come basis.
To learn more about these Park System activities, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000.
Monmouth County Travel Guide Photo Contest Winner Announced
FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that Nick Zaremba, a Middletown resident, has been selected as the winner of the third annual Monmouth County Travel Guide cover photo contest.
“On behalf of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, I would like to congratulate Nick Zaremba, for winning the 2025 Monmouth County Travel Guide cover photo contest with his aerial photo of Sea Bright beach,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone, liaison to the Division
of Tourism. “Nick’s photo captures one of the many ways residents and visitors can enjoy Monmouth County. With 26 miles of beautiful beachfront, Monmouth County is the best place to enjoy a day at the beach.”
Hundreds of photos were submitted by photographers from across the State for a chance to become the cover of this year’s Travel Guide.
“I would like to thank everyone who entered this year’s contest and I hope you will continue taking photos of our great County to submit next year,” said Commissioner
Arnone.
The Monmouth County Travel Guide, a valuable resource for both tourists and locals alike, will include Zaremba’s winning photograph along with other highlights of the County’s countless attractions. To reserve your 2025 Travel Guide, visit MonmouthCountyTourism.com today.
For more information about Monmouth County happenings, visit MonmouthCountyTourism.com and follow Monmouth County Tourism on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Director
Photo courtesy Monmouth County
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Am I Eligible For An Expungement?
By: Robert C. Shea III, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
Did you know that even if you plead guilty to a non-criminal offense in Municipal Court, an expungement of your record is still required to prevent employers from seeing the original charges?
It is customary in Municipal Court for a defendant and a Prosecutor to enter into an agreement called a “plea bargain.”
A plea bargain is essentially a private arrangement with the Prosecutor for the defendant to plead guilty in exchange for a more lenient sentence. The terms of a plea bargain may involve reducing the charges from criminal to non-criminal in nature, minimizing fi nes and penalties, or a reduction in the number of charges.
A favored plea bargain by Municipal Prosecutors is to reduce a Disorderly Persons/Misdemeanor offense to a Township Ordinance violation. This in essence turns a criminal charge into a non-criminal penalty. Most people believe that when they agree to such a plea bargain, that they are doing so to keep the original criminal charge off their record. However, they are deeply mistaken.
affect the fi nal disposition of the matter.
Robert C. Shea Esq.
The police report and the charges will still be on your record in their original form. Which is why you must be diligent in expunging the police report and charges subsequent to entering your plea arrangement with the Court.
Expungement (also known as criminal record sealing) is a process by which you can formally have your criminal records treated as if they no longer exist. This includes the police report and the charges from the incident which are still observable even if your fi nal disposition indicates a non-criminal offense. Having a criminal record, no matter how long ago, can make obtaining a job or renting an apartment difficult. Therefore, expunging or cleansing your criminal record can provide you with a fresh start. If you believe that you may be eligible and would benefit from an expungement, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.
When background checks are conducted there are three separate pieces of information that are looked for: (1) the police report; (2) the charges brought against the defendant by the state; (3) the fi nal disposition of the matter i.e. guilty/ not guilty. When a defendant agrees to a plea bargain in Municipal Court to reduce their offenses from criminal to non-criminal in nature, this will only
The law fi rm of R.C. Shea & Associates is a full service law fi rm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medicaid Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney. Call or visit our fi rm at 732-505-1212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, N.J.
Mackenzie Blair Foundation Tricky Tray
HOWELL – The Mackenzie Blair Foundation will be hosting our 5th Annual Tricky Tray on May 2 at 5:30 p.m. at St Veronica’s Roman Catholic Church. We are thrilled to present a themed event featuring the same beloved and wellknown tricky tray. This event is a 21+ event. Feel free to bring your own food and drink; water and desserts will be available. We are excited to have 200+ prizes from gift certificates, kitchen appliances, hol-
iday baskets, designer purses and more! Bundles will be available prior to the event only. We will have a golden ticket, wristlet game, and 50/50 available at the event. Feel free to participate in any of these games.
Admission is $25 and includes one sheet of tier one tickets. Purchase tickets at: thembfoundation.networkforgood.com/ events/76220-mackenzie-blair-foundation -tricky-tray.
4th Annual Mustaches For MS
FARMINGDALE – Single Parents with MS presents Mustaches for MS, a five-hour luncheon at the Eagle Oaks Country Club. The 4th Annual Mustaches for MS will be on April 6 from 12 to 5 p.m. at Eagle Oaks
Golf and Country Club, 20 Shore Oaks Drive Farmingdale.
To purchase tickets, visit: eventbrite. com/e/4th-annual-mustaches-for-mstickets-1146503836839.
H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH
Dear Pharmacist
Around The Jersey shore
Freehold Township Brotherhood Practice Interview Skills
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Unmasking The Connections: Hiatal Hernia, GERD, And Shortness Of Breath
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
By now, most of us have experienced the occasional discomfort of heartburn or acid reflux. It’s easy to blame these symptoms on spicy foods, late-night snacking, or stress, but the reality is far more complex. If you’ve been struggling with persistent acid reflux, difficulty breathing, or an uncomfortable tightness in your chest, there may be an underlying culprit: a hiatal hernia. This condition, often paired with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can wreak havoc not just on digestion but also on respiratory function. The key to relief lies in understanding how these conditions connect and what you can do to manage them.
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach pushes through the diaphragm’s opening (the hiatus) into the chest cavity. This shift can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve responsible for keeping stomach acid where it belongs, in your stomach. When the LES fails, acid moves upward into the esophagus, leading to the telltale signs of GERD: Heartburn, regurgitation, and even chronic coughing.
However, what many people don’t realize is that GERD can do more than just irritate your digestive tract, it can also interfere with your ability to breathe! Maybe you have exercise intolerance or shortness of breath. I’m saying it may not be your heart that is behind those symptoms.
The vagus nerve, which regulates heart rate and digestion, gets irritated by stomach acid, leading to throat tightness, wheezing, or a cough that doesn’t respond to typical respiratory treatments. There’s so much more to GERD than your stomach.
If these symptoms sound familiar, don’t ignore them. A doctor can perform tests like a barium swallow or endoscopy.
The good news? You don’t have to suffer in silence. A multi-pronged approach can help ease symptoms and improve both digestion and breathing. There are diet and lifestyle adjustments, as well as medications like famotidine, proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole) and a variety of antacids. The meds neutralize acid, however long-term reliance on these acid blockers isn’t ideal. They are strong drug muggers of everything!
Sometimes medicine isn’t enough, or isn’t tolerated. There is a procedure called Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) which reconstructs the valve between the esophagus and stomach, and there are not external incisions… it’s done through the esophagus as outpatient. There are other new same-day procedures as well such as the LINX procedure (it does require minor incisions). A gastroenterologist can help you decide what’s right for you based on the extend of damage.
My point is that there is a strong relationship between GERD, hiatal hernia, and breathing difficulties. It is often overlooked, yet it can significantly impact your quality of life. Many physicians send you to the cardiologist without realizing that it’s stemming from your digestive tract.
If you’ve been struggling with persistent heartburn, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue, it’s worth exploring whether these conditions are connected. 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.
FREEHOLD – The Brotherhood is a group of approximately 25 students at Freehold Township High School who engage in discussions about leadership, life experiences, and goal setting. They were eager to participate in mock interviews to prepare for future opportunities.
Members had the chance to practice their interview skills with administrators from the school district. During this event, students rotated through various stations where they participated in mock inter-
Photo courtesy Freehold Regional High School District views focused on job applications, college admissions and scholarships, as well as business investor and loan applications. These mock sessions allowed students to learn about proper professional etiquette in interviews, how to dress for success, and the importance of using assertive and engaging body language, including maintaining eye contact and offering a fi rm handshake. Additionally, students were encouraged to reflect on their strengths and answer questions thoroughly and confidently.
Around The Jersey shore
The Stingray: Fascinating And Misunderstood
By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
This species can deliver an electrical discharge of anywhere between 8 to 220 volts of power. Using this power to both protect themselves as well as stun their prey, the stingray has some surprising and amazing adaptations. They can live just about anywhere from muddy riverbeds to coral reefs. They are considered benthic fishes (living near, on or near the bottom of the ocean). Depending upon the species, their habitats differ. Some prefer salt water while others can be found in freshwater environments. For most stingrays, their diet consists of
small bottom-dwelling fish, mussels, lobsters, crabs, and worms. To capture prey, the stingray will situate itself on the bottom of the ocean, for example, and once their prey is close enough, they lift off the floor which causes their shape to create a tent, forming a suction effect, pulling their prey into their mouth. Electrical sensors alert them when prey approaches.
Attacks on humans are rare occurrences, and most injuries are the result of them defending themselves. Often with bottom-dwelling species, their stings occur when they are stepped on. There are many stingray species that are consumed by humans, mostly eaten in Singapore, Malaysia,
and Asia. Some of these creatures, unfortunately, are accidentally captured as bycatch (unintentional) in commercial fisheries. It is tragic that some fisherman will kill stingrays who prey on shellfish they are harvesting. Stingrays are important to the ecosystem. They are natural predators that help control the population of other marine mammals. Overpopulation of some marine mammals can result in resource depletion as well as extinction. Imbalances in the food chain can cause a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem.
Supporting the stingray population in maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem is of vital importance. Boosting
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ecotourism, tourists not only support local businesses but also spreads awareness about the need for conservation efforts to continue protecting these creatures. Scientific research is ongoing providing scientists with insight into the marine ecosystem and the future of our planet.
I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.
It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.
CLASSIFIEDS
Help Wanted
Services
Adult Community - Whiting Crestwood Village 5 (55+). 2 BD, 1 BA, washer/dryer, garage, porch. No pets. No smoking. $1,600/ month, plus utilities. 732-864-1419. Cell 732-604-0323. (18)
Big Storage Containers For Rent - Clean, Dry, Secure. Toms River, Lacey, Bayville, Manahawkin, Tuckerton, New Gretna locations. 609-693-1631. (18)
For Rent Misc.
Wanted: Women who got tattooed after 55. Sorry? Still like it? I'm writing about older women's tattoos and want to hear from you. Call or text Jane, 732-503-8854. (17)
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)
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)
Certified Home Health Aides - Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)
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)
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)
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)
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)
Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 640-999-0072. (19)
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)
Have Pickup Truck? - You need something picked up at Lowes, Home Depot, etc. Call Lou at 732-582-9647 or 813-756-9301. Thank you. (20)
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND WALLPAPERING - Local And Reliable 732-688-6532. (20)
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)
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)
Mercuro & Sons - Handyman Service General Contracting. License #13VH03469200. 732-674-3346. (18)
Monmouth & Ocean MO -
BILE 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)
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)
Caroline's Cleaning - Specializing in change-overs, offices, construction cleanup, shopping, doctor appointments and more. Call now for estimate 848-210-6213. (16)
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. (19)
"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)
Classifieds are placed in all 7 of our weekly newspapers covering all of Ocean County, and also Howell in Monmouth County.
• 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.
• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales
Auto For Sale
Items For Sale
Items Wanted
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You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.
Calculate Price As
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1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203. Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication)
Around The Jersey shore
Monmouth County Sheriff ’s Office Announces EMS Partnership
HOLMDEL –
Sheriff Shaun Golden is pleased to announce a partnership that will enhance emergency medical services in the Bayshore area.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Medical Services
Operation, MedStar, is now providing additional EMS support by serving as a backup and secondary unit to Holmdel EMS, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., ensuring that residents receive timely and efficient emergency care.
“This partnership with MedStar is a tremendous asset to our community,” said Holmdel Mayor Brian Foster. “Our dedicated Holmdel EMTs provide outstanding service, and with MedStar’s additional support, we can ensure that residents will always receive the highest level of emergency response and care. We are grateful to the Monmouth County Sheriff ’s Office and the Monmouth County Board of Commissioners for their efforts and look forward to the benefits MedStar will bring to our town.”
“By integrating MedStar as a secondary unit to assist Holmdel EMS, we are enhancing the ability to respond swiftly to emergencies and provide prompt and professional medical care when it’s needed the most,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “It will strengthen the emergency response system in Holmdel and reinforce Monmouth County’s commitment to the public safety and the well-being of residents.”
First responders, both career and volunteer, dedicate their lives to protecting and caring for others. While volunteer units continue to play a crucial role in serving communities, challenges have resulted in staffi ng shortages that are impacting
response time and safety.
“Volunteer EMTs work tirelessly to ensure safety and save lives, however, critical staffing shortages have become a significant challenge and MedStar is here to help,” said Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “MedStar not only provides essential support to our volunteers but also guarantees that residents receive the most timely and effective emergency care.”
“The Holmdel Volunteer First Aid Squad is proud to partner with the Monmouth County Sheriff ’s Office MedStar program, and I personally look forward to seeing our two agencies work together to ensure the residents of Holmdel continue to receive the highest quality of care,” said Chief Chris Trischitta, Holmdel EMS.
In February, MedStar marked its oneyear anniversary. More than 6000 calls for service have been answered, with the average response time under five minutes and 30 seconds, and over 4200 patients were transported to areas hospitals. The coverage area MedStar services is Ocean Township, Tinton Falls, Neptune City, Sea Girt, Manasquan and Holmdel. In addition to covering those towns, MedStar answered more than 1,400 mutual aid calls for service in neighboring municipalities.
For a downloadable version of this press release, click here: Monmouth County Sheriff ’s Office Announces EMS Partnership with MedStar in the Bayshore Area.
Mother’s Day Market
HOWELL – The Mother’s Day Market will be on May 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Echo Lake Park, Howell.
Moms deserve the best, and so do you!
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your goods at our Mother’s Day Market, just in time for shoppers looking for the perfect gifts!
Shop and support local! Join for an exciting market filled with amazing vendors, unique fi nds, and a fantastic shopping experience!
Free admission – bring your friends & family!
Discover handmade goods, delicious treats, and more!
Shop with local vendors ready to share their best products!
Vendors reserve your spot today! Email jenn@hearhereevents.com or apply online at hearhereevents.com. Seasonal (whole or half season) vendors registered for the farmers market can use the code “MOMSDAY” and receive 10% off of the vendor fee. Vendor Fee: $55. Free 8-ft. table and chair included!
Photo courtesy Monmouth County Sheriff ’s Office
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 One of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans
6 Into footwear?
10 Included, in a way 14 Settle down 15 Come down 16 Barcelona’s Fundació Joan __ 17 Homes.com units
19 Like a kumquat 20 Fair activities for kids 21 Carrot family plant
22 Academic domain 23 Took a spill 25 Nightie nights? 30 Young egg cells 31 “It’s not you, it’s me,” maybe 32 Web-footed divers 35 Struggles with
World Chess Champion from 2013 to 2023
“Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” star
Waze suggestion:
Facility for tech-savvy HS kids
Election map figure
Long-handled ham-
Part of YOLO
Uses Siri, maybe
61 Cantankerous Down
1 Genre of Ariana Grande’s “7 Rings”
2 Used car, perhaps 3 Great exuberance
4 Barra of General Motors
5 Highs and lows
6 Got the lead out
7 Give an edge
8 Surpass
9 MRI orderers
10 “Help me out here” 11 Means of settling some disputes
12 Take marks off 13 Gave out
18 Touchy one?
21 “__ wrong?” 24 SLC athlete
25 Game that may be played on horses, bicycles, or elephants
26 Brand of slip resistant shoes
27 “Short straw again”
28 Figures in a dominance hierarchy 29 Protective cover? 33 __ sock 34 Spotted 36 Gose or lambic
37 Subject worth avoiding
39 Masai Mara mammal
40 Airport listings 42 Lump 43 Remnants 44 American __
45 “Captain America” star
49 Willa Cather’s “The Song of the __”
50 Life partner?
51 Mars counterpart
52 Windshield treatment
53 Artisan’s platform
55 Org. that conducts lots of searches
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ARIES (March 21-April 19): The world is your oyster, but it may take looking around for you to find the pearl. There might be a good reason they are called “pearls of wisdom.” You could be challenged by someone who prefers dollars and cents to common sense.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Move in one direction towards your passion. You may concentrate your energy on a single goal rather than spreading yourself thin. An innovative idea might be worth pursuing with a partner or at least noting down for future reference.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may be in an emotional place where romantic or creative urges have a chance to come to fruition. Don’t obsess about finding the perfect words, there could be an opportunity to speak with your inner voice and reveal your truth and wisdom.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): The brightest star burns out quickly. Find joy in the brief moments when people may be drawn to you but be careful of expecting a passing flirtation to become a lasting connection. You might feel more comfortable with your long-time friends.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Building mutual trust is possible with effort. Early in the week, there may be a chance to unite everyone in harmony. Your efforts toward creating a unified force could progress smoothly. Improvements might come without drastic action.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): There are times when being smart won’t pay the bills unless you take action. Your decisions about material possessions could be based on inner knowledge, good taste, and kindheartedness. Examine your calculations before making a move.
FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 5-11
BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may have a knack for understanding complex situations but the wisdom to wait for the right moment. Consider staying in something for the long haul. It might seem easy to find short romances while aiming for something deeper and more enduring.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You may need a distraction to quiet your racing thoughts so you can concentrate. Whether it’s a quick walk, meditation or exercise, getting out of your head is the goal. You could have ideas and inspiration but need to separate them from the noise.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Do what comes naturally. There’s no need to pretend when meeting new people; honesty alone could earn their respect. You may act as the voice of reason in conflicts, offering an objective perspective paired with understanding.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You might find satisfaction in being unique or original and may have a desire to seem sophisticated and independent. Your ambitions could be growing, possibly requiring you to work harder in the coming week to gain recognition.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Sage advice from a trusted source might be just what you need. Consider listening to a significant other or concerned friend this week. You may be good at following up on a lead. Maintaining harmony could lead to increased prosperity.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The ability to adapt to new situations and rethink your stance may prove to be valuable. Instead of trying to impress others with your skills, consider treating them as friends. Thoughtful words could help ease tension or mend relationship issues.
RESTAURANT-WORTHY
By America’s Test Kitchen
CAST-IRON SEARED RIB-EYE STEAKS
