creating an inclusive, dynamic learning environment where every student is empowered to succeed academically and personally grow. It is a privilege to work with the students of Howell High School, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to their education and development,” Gregorakis-Chrysanthou said.
Gregorakis-Chrysanthou expressed how humble she is to be selected as Teacher of the Year.
“To be acknowledged by those I hold in such high regard is a powerful reminder of the profound impact education has in shaping students’ lives and creating meaningful, lasting connections across generations. The teachers who inspired me to pursue this career continue to motivate me with this award, reminding me of educators’ lasting
influence on one another and the power of passing that inspiration to the next generation,” she said.
Gregorakis-Chrysanthou explained that one of her proudest accomplishments is the “Rock the Vote” initiative in AP Government & Politics. The event is a student-led voter registration drive for seniors which partners with the League of Women Voters. The project helped the group register over 1,000 students, fostering civic engagement.
“This success led to my nomination by the Women’s League to attend Harvard University’s summer program, where I participated in the Harvard Business School Case Study Method Project. I now apply this method in my teaching, encouraging critical thinking, active participation, and real-world problem-solving in my students,” she said.
In addition, she has worked in the Leadership in Action Program which provides students with hands-on experience through community service projects. The project has contributed over 50,000 items to those in need in Monmouth County. It also teaches teaching students valuable skills such as communication, leadership, and empathy.
As a National Honor Society Advisor, Gregorakis-Chrysanthou works with several organizations to offer students opportunities beyond the classroom. While partnering with the Dermer Dreams non-profit, the community collected over 54,000 pounds of food for local food banks.
“What I love most about my profession is the ability to help students unlock their full potential and make a positive impact on their school and community. Nurturing their academic, emotional, and social growth is incredibly fulfilling,” Gregorakis-Chrysanthou said. “Inspired by the educators who shaped me, I am committed to creating a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and valued. Education has the power to change lives - mine included - and I am proud to be part of that transformation for my students.”
Gregorakis-Chrysanthou’s advice to new teachers: recognize the transformative power of building meaningful relationships with their students.
“Every student you teach is a legacy, and the impact you make on them will be imprinted on this Earth long after they leave your classroom. Teaching is about more than just academic performance; it’s about nurturing the whole child and empowering them to realize their untapped potential,” she said.
“Each student has unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. As educators, it’s our responsibility to recognize and embrace those differences and help students see their capabilities and talents. When we build relationships with our students based on trust and compassion, we create an environment that encourages growth,” she added.
Veterans:
Continued From Page 1
which opens to a living room. A kitchen joins this, while a large bathroom juts off from the kitchen. At the opposite end of the living room is a bedroom. The doors are wide and the fixtures have space around them to cater to people with wheelchairs and other mobility issues.
In addition to the apartments, there will be a common area for the veterans to get care they need, such as behavioral health, legal services, and peer support. Anything not directly provided by Tunnel To Towers will be available through partnerships with local caregivers.
Central Regional JROTC presented the colors and Ocean County Shamrock & Thistle played, kicking off the ceremony.
Deacon Robert Gay of St. Barnabas gave an invocation, hoping that this place will be “a sanctuary of peace where healing and hope abound.”
Tunnel To Towers officials said that this is the largest groundbreaking they’ve ever had, and the first (“of many”) in New Jersey. They listed places where they have finished or are in the process of building housing. They were all big cities. The only standouts were Berkeley and Jackson.
A representative of Tunnel To Towers told this newspaper that the negotiation in Jackson is still early and there are no specifics to report.
Veterans and first responders were asked to stand and be recognized, receiving applause. Elected officials and their staff were
thanked for their advocacy.
Mayor John Bacchione said everyone in Berkeley felt honored that Tunnel To Towers chose to be here. “This isn’t about me or any elected officials,” he said, it’s about the veterans.
Developer Vito Cardinale of Cardinale Enterprises owned the property and reached out to Bacchione about having the land used in this way. Bacchione said the only requirement he wanted was that the land be deed restricted so that only U.S. military veterans could live here.
“That was not a hard sell,” he said. The discussion went well and now a few years later, ground is cleared for an ambitious project that will help veterans for decades to come.
Senator Carmen Amato said he was proud that the first veterans village in the state is in his home town.
“This is more than a housing project. It’s a community of support and hope,” he said. “This village is for you and today we take a huge step toward giving back what for what you so selflessly gave to us.”
New Jersey State Police Col. Patrick Callahan said that when tragedy befalls any trooper, Tunnel To Towers is one of the first who call and let them know that they will take on the mortgage of the family left behind.
He shared that his first memory was as an 18-month-old watching his uncle return from Vietnam and the soldier embracing his mother. That struck a chord with how veterans leave their families behind to face danger and the unknown for the love of the
country and those on the home front.
Somber Remembrances
There was much to celebrate this day, as officials symbolically turned over dirt with shovels to break ground as a New Jersey State Police helicopter flew overhead. But there were moments of reflection, as well. There was a moment of silence for those lost. “Amazing Grace” was played by the bagpipe band. And touching stories were shared.
Frank Siller, CEO of Tunnel To Towers, told the crowd about his brother Stephen, who was the baby of a big family. Everyone looked out for him, especially when the patriarch of the family died when Stephen was 8 and the matriarch when he was 10. The oldest siblings were in their 20s, so they raised him.
Siller recalls taking 11-yearold Stephen to play basketball one day. Stephen broke down out of nowhere and finally said “Why did mommy and daddy have to die?”
Siller tried to make some sense of it, too. All he could instill in the child is confidence that there’s a plan at work, even if we can’t see it. He told his baby brother “I don’t know why God put you on this Earth but I know you’ll do something special.”
Fast forward, as years go by quickly, and Stephen is a father of a big family himself.
He’s married with five kids. He even has a house with a white picket fence. He’s working the night shift as a firefighter in New York City. His shift ends and he’s going to go play golf with his three brothers. But he gets a call that there’s an emergency. He drops his plans and heads back into the city the morning of September 11, 2001. The Brooklyn Battery is closed for security purposes, so he gets out of his truck and (Veterans - See Page 9)
Photo by Chris Lundy
The house has accessibility built in.
OPINIONS & COMMENTARY
FEATURED LETTER
Route 72 Project Must Be Done Soon
Editor’s note: This was a letter from the Ocean County Mayors Association to Sandra Opoku, Regional Coordinator of the NJ Department of Transportation, Office of Government and Community Relations.
The Ocean County Mayors Association strongly supports the Long Beach Island mayors; Mayor Imperiale, Mayor Hodgson, Mayor Larson, Mayor Huelsenbeck, Mayor Lambert and Mayor Mancini in their request that the Route 72 New Jersey Department of Transportation construction project be completed on schedule, June 30 or earlier, with no further delays.
As the summer season is quickly approaching, there are many concerns about how this construction is going to impact Long Beach Island for both residents and visitors. The projected completion date for the LBI side of the project is June 30, 2025, which does not allow much time for errors. Some of the concerns of the LBI mayors are the traffic pattern changes, the Manahawkin-Marsha Drive
work, and the numerous road closures.
LBI employees are unable to get to work timely. Our businesses and restaurants have a small window for a successful season and a large part of their workforce comes from off the island. The construction is impacting them greatly in the off season and we can only imagine how much worse it will get once the weather gets nicer.
More importantly, it is impacting LBI first responders. There are limited volunteers on Long Beach Island and the traffic is negatively affecting response times. It is very difficult to ask to be patient when there are miles of cones blocking lanes and no one is working. We respectfully request that you ensure that this project be completed timely and as efficiently as possible. On behalf of the Ocean County Mayors’ Association, thank you for your anticipated cooperation.
William W. Curtis Mayor of Bay Head President, OCMA
Government 0fficials: Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing it in this paper! Send to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.
WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR!
The Howell 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.
When a tariff is put on, it charges a company more to bring a product into America. The company isn’t going to swallow those extra costs. The customers will. The company will raise the prices on its goods. We will pay the tariffs, not the company. We will pay the tariffs, not China or whatever other country. Tariffs only hurt us. A company would have to be stupid to take on the extra cost. When a company adds a dollar or whatever to their products, we pay for it. A dollar means a lot more to me or you than it does to a millionaire. They are not even going to feel it. That’s why a tariff is a tax on the poor. It’s a way to make us pay for more things while the rich get off scot-free.
Call up your representative and tell them – no tariffs! No more taxes!
Donald Soto Toms River
The Cost Of Silence
Editor’s note: This letter is in response to the Town Council majority voting to move toward buying Christ Episcopal Church.
There are moments in public service when the right thing is not popular, and the popular thing is not right.
The Toms River Township Council had a chance to do something simple but profound. They could have paused. They could have taken a breath. They could have said, “Let us not rush into removing sacred ground from our community.” Some chose that path. Others did not.
Christ Episcopal Church is not just property. It is not just a building. It is the resting place of loved ones. It is a place where ashes were laid, prayers were whispered, and generations sought peace. My own mother, who served this town as a paramedic until cancer took her, rests there. I visit her in that garden. I sit with her memory. That space cannot be replaced. The vote to proceed with the ordinance was not just a political act. It was a moral moment. And in that moment, some
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
remained silent.
I do not write these words with bitterness. I write them with sadness. Because I know what silence can cost. I have seen it in warzones. I have seen it in boardrooms. And now, I see it in my hometown.
But the next meeting is not here yet. There is still time. Still space to lead. Still a chance for those who held their voice to find it again.
To the council members who stayed quiet or voted to press forward - I ask you to search your heart. Ask yourself how you would feel if it were your family’s ashes in that soil. Ask yourself if this is the vote you want your name remembered for.
Because when this season passes, and the next issue rises, what will remain is how we treated the sacred. What will be written is not the policy, but the principle we did or did not stand for.
Silence has a cost. But so does courage. I pray this town chooses the better one.
Semper Fidelis, Tim Williamson Toms River
Combat Veteran, United States Marine Corps Son of this Community
the administration has even submitted plans.
Mayor Ducey asked me for input a few years ago. I gave a comprehensive list of what the neighborhood children suggested. He thanked me for having faithfully served on the Brick Township Environmental Commission for some fourteen years. I have a vested interest in my Mallard Pt. neighborhood having lived here since 1988. To blame the Army Corps of Engineers is getting old. They should NOT be the scapegoat in this delay. I blame Engineering and the administration for treating this park as an afterthought.
Richard Beer
Brick
County GOP Needs Better Leader
At the Ocean County Republican Convention on February 25, George Gilmore, the chair of the Ocean County Republican Organization (OCGOP) violated the OCGOP By-Laws by prohibiting the Ocean County Federated Republican Women (OCFRW) from voting at the county convention. In the OCGOP By-Laws section 5 lists the OCFRW having a vote and in fact, the OCFRW has voted for the past 30 years at the county convention.
I am proud to say our present mayor Crate and previous mayor Ducey put Brick first. Our dozen neighborhood parks are quite an accomplishment. The taxpayers and children who frequent these wonderful parks are certainly getting their money’s worth. All except for one; Mallard Point.
Our sixty or so school age children have been wanting over two years for the promised ground breaking. They need a go-to destination after being in school all day. It’s a quality of life issue. Having to play in the street should not be an option. My nine grandchildren would certainly enjoy seeing some playground equipment appear before the summer is over. We have been waiting patiently for some sign of progress. It doesn’t look like
Gilmore contends that the OCFRW vote at the convention would constitute an endorsement of a candidate (which is against the By-Laws of the national organization, NFRW, of which OCFRW is part). If Gilmore’s contention were correct, every person voting at the convention would be making an endorsement before the primary election, which is considered a violation of Republican Party principles. A registered parliamentarian wrote an opinion to Chairman Gilmore stating the endorsement policy did not pertain to the Federation in an intraparty election and he dismissed it.
Gilmore is displaying yet another example of his discrimination against women with his actions prohibiting the OCFRW to vote at the county convention. Gilmore has backed male
candidates to challenge outstanding female candidates in their reelection bids; most notably DiAnne Gove (R-9) who was only the sixth woman to represent Ocean County in the New Jersey Legislature in the 90 years since women have won the right to vote, and Ocean County Commissioner, Barbara “Bobbi” Jo Crea who was the third woman in its history to be elected to the Commissioner Board.
Chairman George Gilmore was convicted of three felony federal tax charges in 2019. It appears that Gilmore now continues his corrupt nature. Gilmore allegedly accepted $85,000 from gubernatorial candidate Bill Spadea for work on Spadea’s 2025 campaign. So Spadea pays Gilmore, and Spadea wins Gilmore’s handpicked screening committee recommendation and the county convention’s gubernatorial nomination. It should also be known that Gilmore endorsed Spadea months before his GOP county convention and any vote was taken.
Ocean County deserves better than George Gilmore. If you agree, let him know.
Mary Chyb Brick
Fire Preparation Is Key
Luck is somewhat with us on the Ocean County forest fire; it could be worse. I was on the Parkway recently in that area, and I commented that I could see that a fire in the Pinelands could easily jump the Parkway from west to east, which happened a week later.
New Jersey State government should have prepared for the fires and asked how the indigenous people protected their villages. California should have been prepared; the White House had told them about 8 years ago.
A committee of the US House of Representatives endowed with executive power is needed, also, similar legislative-executive committees in NJ and elsewhere are greatly needed.
Walter McInerney Toms River
S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Senator Calls For Halt Of Taxpayer Funding To Princeton University
From The Desk Of Senator
Robert Singer
TRENTON - In light of recent reports that anti-Semitic acts across the country hit a record high this past year, including antisemitic protests at Princeton University, Senator Bob Singer (R-30) released
the following statement calling for the halt of taxpayer dollars to Princeton University if they fail to address anti-Jewish bias on campus.
Princeton University is among dozens facing federal investigations into antisemitism following a wave of pro-Palestinian protests last year.
“Princeton University has a responsibility to ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful
atmosphere for all students,” said Sen. Singer. “However, the recent anti-Semitic protests on campus, and the University leadership’s weak response, have been deeply troubling and demands immediate action. Ignoring antisemitism sends the wrong message to students, faculty, and the entire Jewish community as it breeds hostility, fear, and division.”
In FY 2024 and FY 2025 through April 12, 2025, Princeton University received $2,611,461 and $3,309,313 in taxpayer dollars respectively.
Capitol Comments
Senator Cory Booker
“Starting today, I am calling for an immediate halt to all taxpayer funding to Princeton University until they demonstrate concrete steps to address and eliminate anti-Jewish bias on their campus. New Jersey taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize an institution that stands idle in the face of hatred and intimidation. I am also urging Governor Murphy to join me in suspending all state funding to Princeton until meaningful changes are made. This is not a partisan issue - this is a moral imperative,” Singer concluded.
“All Necessary Steps” Should Be Taken To Fix Newark Airport’s Problems
NEWARK - Senator Cory Booker sent a letter to United States Department of Transportation Secretary (USDOT) Sean Duffy regarding the ongoing operational challenges at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), including widespread flight delays and cancellations, reportedly outdated air traffic control systems, and chronic staffing shortages.
A full copy of the May 6 letter can be found below:
“Dear Secretary Duffy:
“I write to express our serious concerns over the ongoing flight delays and cancellations at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) that have stranded travelers, disrupted Americans’ lives, and negatively impacted our national economy over the past week. As you know, EWR is one of the busiest airports in the country and operates within the third busiest airspace - a major shutdown of service at EWR has an immediate ripple effect throughout the nation’s entire aviation system.
“Given the serious consequences for our nation’s aviation system, it is critical that the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) take all necessary steps to identify and address the underlying causes
of the ongoing flight disruptions. I appreciate that the USDOT has already responded to this ongoing situation by identifying the importance of technology upgrades across the entire air traffic control system, and I am committed to supporting these efforts in Congress.
“However, I ask that you also immediately direct additional staff and resources in order to restore regular operations at EWR in the days ahead. This is of particular importance as the busy summer travel season approaches, which will put further pressure on EWR and the region’s airspace. Specifically, I request that you take additional steps to address the staffing shortages at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility, which have contributed significantly to the repeated suspension and interruption of flight operations at EWR.
“These issues, along with the termination of
thousands of employees that directly support the FAA’s day-to-day operations, are putting an additional strain on the FAA and our aviation system at a time when public safety has come under well-deserved scrutiny after recent accidents. Given the gravity of the problems impacting operations at EWR and the major inconveniences this has caused for people traveling through New Jersey, I am are requesting a briefing to discuss the problems you’ve identified within the USDOT and the steps you are taking to alleviate these burdens.
“I thank you in advance for your attention to Newark Liberty International Airport’s urgent needs to improve air traffic control staffing levels and invest in updated technologies that will keep our passengers and aviation workers safe. I look forward to working with you to make these improvements and ensure safety and reliability for the traveling public.”
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.
Budget:
Continued From Page 1 four items on that particular slide were all things that were anticipated budget strains,” Parisi said. “In the 2024 budget you also realized nearly $3 million more in unanticipated revenues. Knowing that you were going to have $3 to $4 million in known holes that need to be fi lled and that you had roughly $3 million revenues that were unanticipated, how do we now then fi nd ourselves in a situation where there’s a multi-million-dollar budget hole
that needs to be fi lled with roughly $2.5 million in taxation?”
Parisi also noted that this year the local and regional board of educations have increased taxes.
“Obviously we didn’t have the ARP, we didn’t have that state funds. We had some major budget challenges. We also had other things that weren’t in that major budget challenges category that do make up pressure on it,” Clark said. “We’ve been attempting to use a responsible amount of surplus. We keep in store another two months of operating, so we hold back $10
million every year. We’re not going to deplete our surplus; God forbid there’s an emergency and we need that.
We used $7.7 million this past year and we’re using the liquor license money, the extra money that Lou said to make up and deliver an even lower tax burden.”
“We have maintained a fiscally responsible budget on the municipal level and I don’t think all residents remember when they get their tax bill that 67% or more of this bill is coming from the school,” Councilwoman Susan Fischer added.
Clark also noted that an unforeseen in-
National Night Out 2025
crease was the state health benefits premium and the Township is currently working on exploring other ways to save money for next year. Clark had heard that the increase could be anywhere from 16 to 30 percent. Before voting on the budget, the governing body commended the Howell Township K-8 School District for declining the state’s Tax Levy Incentive Aid program which would have allowed the district to increase taxes by more than the 2% cap.
At the end of the meeting, the Township Council all voted in favor of adopting the $64.28 million municipal budget for 2025.
HOWELL – Join Howell PAL and Howell Police Department for a wonderful free night full of demonstrations, giveaways, music and much more!
National Night Out will be on August 5 from
5 to 8 p.m. at Soldier Memorial Park, 587-593 Lakewood Farmingdale Road, Howell.
National Night Out is an annual event that promotes community safety and strengthens the relationship between local law enforce-
ment and the neighborhoods they serve. The event aims to raise awareness about crime prevention, encourage community involvement, and foster positive connections between citizens and law enforcement!
Vendors are able to attend but must register prior to the event. Deadline to register is July 22 at 12 p.m. Email jmandracchia@howellpal. org if you are interested in being a vendor. This event is weather permitting.
Junior Firefi ghters Complete Fire Academy
RAMTOWN – Ramtown Fire Company Members were present to support two of their Junior firefighters, Andrew Marshall and Adriana Marshall who completed the Jr. Fire Academy on April 30. Great job by our members and all of the other Jr Firefighters from other local departments who completed the course.
Fire Life Member Receives Award
Photo courtesy Ramtown Fire Company
Photo courtesy Adelphia Fire Company HOWELL – Adelphia Fire Company’s Life Member Frank “Bosco” Bostjancic received
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Injured At Work?! Know Your Rights To Critical Benefits!
By: Christopher R. 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.
Christopher R. Shea Esq.
Further, it is important to note another critical benefit of the Workers Compensation Act. This benefit protects employees from collections law suits when the employee obtains medical treatment that has been wrongfully or negligently withheld by an employer. This benefit, was upheld by the New Jersey Appellate Court in Kinley Physical Therapy Services, Inc. v. Kramer, and unequivocally states that a medical service provider is prohibited from filing an action against the employee until a determination has been made by the Division of Workers’ Compensation. The Court reasoned that a medical provider is normally not permitted to pursue collection actions in court until it resolves all administrative remedies, thus, the employee must be shielded from all actions by the medical provider until the Court determines whether or not the employer is responsible for the cost of medical care. If you feel your legitimate benefits have been denied and you live in the New Jersey, our workers compensation lawyers would like to talk to you to see if we can assist you with your case. Please call for a free consultation. R.C. Shea & Associates, 244 Main Street, Toms River, N.J. (732) 505-1212.
Open Burning, Recreational Fires & Portable Outdoor Fireplaces
HOWELL – With the weather getting nicer, the Howell Township Fire Bureau has received several inquiries regarding Open Burning and recreational burning guidance. The Bureau of Fire Prevention in collaboration with the Howell Township Fire Service would like to break it all down and clear up any confusion specific to approved and unapproved use of open flames.
Open Burning
Open Burning shall not be utilized for waste disposal purposes, shall be of the minimum size for the intended purposes, and the fuel shall be chosen to minimize the generation of air contaminants. Open burning shall be allowed without prior notification to the Bureau of Fire Prevention for recreational fires occurring on residential properties. Open burning shall be allowed after obtaining a permit from the Bureau of Fire Prevention and issued to the property owner or agent of the land upon which the fire is being kindled. Violations of Howell Township Ordinance # 86-3 may be issued for unauthorized open burns identified.
Recreational Fires
Recreational fires are permitted in fire pits (store bought or paver block) in three feet in diameter or smaller and having a grate covering without a permit providing they are for recreational purposes only. No burning of yard debris or construction material is permitted at any time. Recreational Fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material. Recreation fires are permitted on residential properties, and shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
Bonfires
Bon fires are permitted with a permit issued by a NJ Forest Fire Section Warden with a fee and also requires a permit issued by the Howell Township Bureau of Fire Prevention with a separate permit fee. A Bonfire shall not be more than Five feet by five feet by five feet in dimension and shall not burn longer than three
hours. Fuel for a bonfire shall consist of only seasoned dry firewood and shall be ignited with a small quantity of paper. The fire shall not be utilized for waste disposal purposes, and the fuel shall be chosen to minimize the generation of air contaminants. Bonfires shall not be conducted within 50 feet of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
Camp Fires
Camp fires are permitted within a ring around the fire (stone or metal) with a permit issued by a NJ Forest Fire District Warden at no charge.
Agricultural Burning
Agricultural debris burning is permitted and requires a permit issued by the NJ Forest Fire Section Warden with a fee ranging on the length of time the permit is issued for. If the Fire Department is notified of a fire in town, they have to respond and will assess the situation when they arrive to verify that the burning is in compliance with the NJ State statue. We may ask a resident to extinguish a fire if the burning is taking place on a high risk wildfire days, if smoke is causing a nuisance to neighbors or if burning is in danger of causing a wildfire. Permit applications for open burning, and bonfires shall be submitted in writing at least 10 days before the fire is set and shall contain as a minimum, information regarding the purpose of the proposed burning, the nature and quantities of material to be burned, the date when such burning will take place, the location of the burning site along with a site layout diagram, and the on-site fire extinguishing equipment to be provided. twp.howell.nj.us/ DocumentCenter/View/690.
If you have further questions, you can contact the Bureau of Fire Prevention Office at 732-938-4500 ext. 2900. To obtain a required burning permit from a New Jersey State Forest Fire Warden, you can contact the New Jersey Forest Fire Service’s New Lisbon office at 609-726-1210.
Veterans:
Continued From Page 3
lugs 60 pounds of gear on foot toward the smoke. Frank Siller assumes his brother met up with the rest of his company at the south tower. His family never sees him again.
“That little boy who went through so much makes the unbelievable journey…this unbelievable run…this unbelievable sacrifice… we need to honor him,” he said. That’s how Tunnel To Towers got its start.
In their fight for veterans, they’ve provided housing or support for more than 10,000 vets. There are 600 homeless veterans in New Jersey alone, but that number is probably low, as many go uncounted.
The huge numbers of homeless vets show a deep problem with how we treat those who sacrifice for us. “In the greatest country in the world, that should never happen,” said Brad Blakeman, board member of Tunnel To Towers.
He told the story of working in the White House the morning of 9/11. He was a gatekeeper for President George W. Bush. He organized where the president was going, and had him scheduled for the next 21 days.
That morning, the president was in a Florida
school as part of the No Child Left Behind program. Blakeman was at the White House in his office, with the TV on in the background in case world events happened that would need to change the president’s priorities.
The news of the first plane hitting the tower came across the airwaves. It was a terrible tragedy and the president needed to be told right away. Then the second tower hit and everyone knew the truth. Blakeman went to the Situation Room, and they were just learning about it as well. He helped people evacuate from the White House.
His sister called. Her son had driven to Ground Zero to help. He would not come back. Blakeman recalled the president coming to his desk and saying “We’re going to fi nd the people who did this and bring them to justice.”
How To Help
Tunnel To Towers has a number of special programs designed to help veterans and fi rst responders. Besides veterans villages, they build smart homes for veterans with disabilities. The Gold Star Family Home program pays the mortgage of surviving spouses with young children. For more information, including other ways they help, and ways to donate, visit T2T.org.
Preschool & Kindergarten Registration
HOWELL – Registration is now open for preschool and kindergarten registration! For more information, visit howell.k12.
nj.us. Contact the Central Registration Office at 732-751-2480 ext. 3860 with any questions!
from Bruno’s Barber Lounge in Manahawkin. Christian Cramer was getting his haircut and frequently reads The Southern Ocean Times. His mom Andrea snapped this pic and shared it with us. Now Christian and his family are heading to a Jersey Shore BlueClaws game this summer. Want to see your photo in this space? How about tickets of your own? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!
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BUYING ALL DIAMONDS
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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE
Couples Invited To June “Group Wedding” Event
FREEHOLD
– Monmouth County Clerk
Christine Hanlon is inviting couples seeking to get married for free to participate in the Monmouth County Clerk’s Office’s next group wedding event. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on June 26 at the Clubhouse at Hominy Hill Golf Course in Colts Neck.
A group wedding, sometimes referred to as a collective wedding, is a matrimonial ceremony in which more than one couple gets married during a single ceremony.
Each couple is responsible for obtaining their own marriage license in advance which is then signed by the officiant on the wedding day.
Each couple may bring up to four guests. The ceremony will be livestreamed so that additional family members and friends can view the event online. The event, which does not include a reception, is free for all participants.
As County Clerk, Hanlon is empowered to perform wedding ceremonies and reg-
ularly performs them at the Monmouth County Clerk’s Freehold office. Clerk Hanlon performed the office’s first Group Wedding event in June 2024.
“We held our first group wedding last June, and it was so well-received that we held a Valentine’s Day event as well,” said Clerk Hanlon. “I am happy my office can provide this affordable option to our residents.”
Hominy Hill Clubhouse is located on the grounds Hominy Hill Golf Course
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
and is part of the Monmouth County Parks System. The venue frequently hosts weddings with a capacity of 120 people.
Couples interested in getting married during the Group Wedding may apply online at forms.gle/92U6a58eLuKPmxeh9 by filling out a short form. For more information, visit the Monmouth County Clerk Office’s website at monmouthcountyclerk.com/general-services/ wedding-ceremonies.
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
Help Wanted Open House
For Rent
Big Storage Shipping Containers For Rent - New Gretna, Tuckerton, Manahawkin, Bayville, Lacey, Toms River. Clean, Dry, Secure. For info call 609-693-1631. (23)
Auto For Sale
Sporty Red Tiburon - 2008. Low mileage. Clean, garaged, original owner. Mint. New Michelin tires. Runs great! $5500 or B/O, 732-995-5409. (23)
For Sale
Monmouth Memorial Cemetary, Neptune - Double crypt in raised mausoleum with white marble cover. Quiet inside viewing area. $15,000 firm. 973-303-8501. (26)
Other
Try The Marsh S&P 500 Daily Prediction System (MSPDPS). - Request free details via email to r.marsh@prodigy.net or phone 848-232-9471. (25)
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)
CA$h PAID For OLD 45 RPM RECORDS - R and B, doo wop, soul, rock and roll, and rockabilly. (909)938-4623 8am-8pm, bobo78rpm@verizon.net. (20)
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)
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. (23)
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)
Certified Home Health AidesNeeded 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)
HVAC Installer/Technician Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays. Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)
PT Mechanic - Entry level tires, oil changes. $17 per hour, immediate start. Save On Auto, 3460 Hwy 9, Howell. 732-367-8900. (22)
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)
MANAHAWKIN SENIOR CARE GIVER - 15 yrs. exp., available for full or part time work. All aspects of non-medical senior care in the home. Please call Kathy 908-246-7896. (24)
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. 732-808-7477. (25)
PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, PAINTING AND PAPER HANGING - Call 732-688-3532. (28)
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 813-7569301. 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)
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)
Services
Mercuro & Sons - Handyman Service General Contracting. License #13VH03469200. 732-674-3346. (18)
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)
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)
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. (24)
"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)
Computer Service At Doorstep! - Over a decade in industry. Printer's, troubleshooting, MAC and Windows. Commercial or personal. Call Giovanni 732-908-9919. (22)
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND WALLPAPERING - Local And Reliable 732-688-6532. (20)
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
Services
For Rent
Real Estate
Other
2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.
You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.
Calculate Price As Follows:
3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $
*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.
4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:
Cardholder Signature:
Print Name:
Billing Address:
5. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)
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)
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Vehicle for E.T.
Ran away (with)
Mine, in Milan
Hook’s nemesis
Oft-torn knee pt.
*Promo for longrange basket shooters? 20 Passable grade
Girl’s name that means “small river”
Hop back in horror
AI exec, perhaps
Musical with the
“Put On a Happy Face,” and a hint to making four answers match their starred clues
“Not a mouse!”
Part of Roy G. Biv
Word after a sneeze
Slow moo-ver
Moment of unpleasantness
Drag org.
Baffin, for one
Post-ER facility
Gain
Tear
Sign of poor service?
Big name in frozen
Valley with many vineyards
__ the part
Wars”
Teo __ of “Past Lives”
Mark Kurlansky book subtitled “A Biography of the Fish That Changed the World”
