2026-02-07 - The Manchester Times

Times MANCHESTER

Chili Cookoff Heats Up Those Weary Of Winter

Council Approves Street Vacation Plan For Roosevelt City

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

The Township Council approved several ordinances during a recent council meeting that was held over Zoom due to inclement weather.

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST – The Super Bowl is this Sunday but it was the bowls of chili and soup that mattered most during the annual Lakehurst Historical Society (LHS) Chili & Soup Cookoff Challenge. The event drew a sizable crowd despite the snow and ice left over from recent winter storms. Spirits were high as guests supported the event which this year may well be the sole fundraiser for the organization as there are no current plans for the annual Car Show to take place on Independence Day.

For a $5 entry fee you could sample soups and chili from various borough organizations such as

(Chili - See Page 4)

On This Farm, Hope Is Growing

By Stephanie Faughnan

OCEAN COUNTY – Bright Harbor Healthcare is planting more than crops on a farm along Silverton Road.

The Ocean County nonprofit is launching Salt Bridge Farm this summer as a transitional housing and training program for young adults who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability, offering them something few have been given before: time to grow.

The project represents a shift from

traditional shelter or apartment-based models. Instead of focusing solely on emergency housing, Salt Bridge Farm is structured as a phased, long-term environment where young people can learn how to live independently while building skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

Bright Harbor CEO Kim Veith describes the farm’s name as both literal and symbolic. “We wanted to bring in the part about bridge housing

(Farm - See Page 13)

project, allowing residents to transition toward greater independence.

The session featured a second reading of Ordinance 26-1 Streets and Sidewalks, Fees and Deposit; Ordinance #26-2 which authorizes the vacation of portions of roadways within the township which are detailed in the Overall Street Vacation Plan for Roosevelt City; and Ordinance #26-3 which repeals Ordinance #24-25 in its entirety.

A street vacation is when a street that only appear on a map is essentially erased. Additional ordinances on second reading included #26-4 amending the Salary Ranges and Positions of Bargaining Unit Employees; #26-5 Amending the Salary Ranges and Positions of Non-Bargaining Employees Unit; #26-6 entitled “Solid Waste” and #26-1 amending and supplementing Chapter 372 streets and sidewalks. All ordinances were unanimously approved. An ordinance has to be introduced at one

(Council - See Page 4)

NJ Reentry Closes Ocean County Location

By Andrew Rice

OCEAN COUNTY – The NJ Reentry Corporation, a non-profit agency meant to assist those returning from addiction treatment, incarceration, or the theater of combat, has closed down its Toms River branch and will be consolidating its Ocean County operations into the Monmouth County branch, which is located in Neptune. This move leaves the corporation without a base of operations in all of Ocean County.

Questions began to swirl as to the nature of this departure.

When former Governor James McGreevey, who is the current chairman of the NJ Reentry

(NJ Reentry - See Page 5)

Chili:

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the police and fire departments and first aid squad, as well as Fleet Reserve Association #124, Arista Care Manchester, LHS itself and a new entry, Dimensional Designs Salon which has been operating in the community for many years.

Lakehurst Historical Society member/ event coordinator Kathy Abrahamsen told The Manchester Times, “We were afraid the buildup of snow would keep people away. Every year it gets better and more people come. It’s the boots on the ground that make it work. We got a lot of support from our local businesses (for the gift drawings). We have a lot of nice items.”

Several nature photographs placed in frames by Borough photographer Denise Maynard graced the gift tables this year. Abrahamsen was happy to see the addition of a new participant this year. “The staff at Dimensional Designs Salon they said we make chili at work we can do this and they have a fancy display (that featured a balloon archway) they are going to shame the rest of us.”

“We all got very excited about this,” Dimensional Designs Salon Manager Jennifer Prozzo said regarding the event. They served up a meat and vegetarian chili.

Councilwoman Bernadette Dugan who also serves as president of the LHS manned the dessert area with fellow members but also provided one of the organization’s

offerings with her mushroom soup.

While Borough Police Lt. Ian James was absent this year, the department still picked up a trophy even without his prize-winning chili. Their offering this year was Country Chicken Vegetable Crème Soup made by the department’s Records Clerk Tammy Duffy. Also missing this year was Lakehurst First Aid Squad Vice President Misty Sinkewitz although her popular #9 chili was very much present.

The event provided an opportunity for the borough’s fire department and first aid squad to meet the public and to remind residents that they were in desperate need for new members.

“We are doing even worse than them (Lakehurst Fire Company),” a triple life member of the Lakehurst First Aid Squad remarked. “Full life membership is 15 years. I joined in 1974.” He sat beside a

Council: Continued From Page 1 meeting and then approved at a later meeting.

Several ordinances were introduced during the meeting, #26-7 authorizing the sale of lots to Gold Eagle, specifically 1909 Commonwealth Boulevard for $301,000. Ordinance #26-8 amending and supplementing Township code entitled “Water and Sewer” was also approved.

Also introduced were ordinances #26-9

new member who joined as her aunt is a member of the squad.

This year’s winners included:

• First place chili winner: Lakehurst Fleet Reserve #124

• Second place chili: Lakehurst 1st Aid Squad

• People’s Choice Award: Country Chicken Vegetable Crème Soup served up by the Borough Police Department

• First place soup: Lakehurst Fleet Reserve #124

• Second place soup: Lakehurst Fleet reserve #124

“It is fun and when you sit there and watch people eating and enjoying themselves at this very small-town winter thing, it is great,” Abrahamsen said. Funds from the event are used to maintain the upkeep of the museum which is across the street from the Community Center on Center Street.

repealing Ordinance #24-40 authorizing the vacation of portions of roadways in the Roosevelt City section of Manchester; and #26-12 adopting portions of the General reexamination of the Master Plan. Their second reading will be held during the council’s February 9 meeting. Resolutions approved that night included authorizing an application for the 2025 Recycling Tonnage Grant and Designation of a Municipal Recycling & Clean Communities coordinator for 2026. A grant application was also authorized for Lewis Park.

NJ Reentry:

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Corporation, was asked why the office was closed down and consolidated, he said it was not due to local politics but a decision based on resource allocation and utilization.

“This was a decision about resource allocation and the concentration of efforts. Candidly, the Toms River location was chosen based on volume. Client utilization at that site was lower relative to other locations, and consolidating those operations allowed us to redeploy resources while continuing to serve Ocean County through partner-based, in-person enrollment and services,” he said to The Howell Times.

Another reason why the Toms River location was closed down was the fact that most of those people who are now getting enrolled in the program are doing so directly from the institution they are placed in, rather than requiring them to go to a standalone office.

“A second factor was the importance of institutional enrollment. Increasingly, enrollment is occurring directly in coun -

ty jails and addiction treatment centers, where individuals are already engaged, rather than requiring them subsequent to release to travel to a stand-alone office,” McGreevey said. “Aligning resources with those settings demonstrably improves access and service effectiveness.”

McGreevey also stated that just because they are moving out of Ocean County, it does not mean they will no longer be helping those in Ocean County who need their assistance.

“Enrollment in Ocean County is continuing. NJRC (NJ Reentry Corporation) is actively working with partners throughout the county and will be providing in-person enrollment and services through partnerships. Agreements are being finalized to ensure consistent, on-the-ground access and enrollment for individuals seeking services,” he said.

“At the same time, veteran services are expanding. NJRC is entering an agreement with the New Jersey Department of Corrections to broaden services for justice-involved veterans behind the wall, strengthening continuity of care from incarceration through reentry. Overall, the number of veterans served has sig-

nificantly increased,” he said. McGreevey said his team has a very good success rate. According to the NJRC website, they only have a 14.01% reincarceration rate out of all the people that they

Easter Bunny Event Returns To Town

work with. Those findings, documented by the New Jersey State Police, reflect outcomes for 11,474 individuals who completed the program over the span of eight years.

MANCHESTER – Young residents will have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny during Manchester’s Annual Easter Event, set for March 29 at Town Hall. The event begins at 10 a.m. and will take

place rain or shine. It is open to township children between the ages of 2 and 10, and advance registration is required. Attendance is capped at 250 participants.

Organizers say the seasonal celebration

will offer families an opportunity for festive fun and photo ops with the Easter Bunny. The event is free but limited to Manchester Township residents only. Children must be at least 2 years old by

the date of the event and not older than 10 on March 29.

Registration must be completed online through the Edmunds system by March 23. To sign up, visit shorturl.at/O7Tet.

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S potlight o n g overnment

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

Bill Would Ease Financial Burden On First Responders

Capitol Comments

Senator Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District

TRENTON - Senators Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-Ocean County) and Vince Polistina (R-Atlantic County) introduced legislation that would ease the financial burden on vol-

unteer emergency service organizations by requiring public utilities to charge a residential service rate rather than the commercial rate.

“Volunteer first responders are integral to the public safety of our communities, yet many of these organizations are being pushed to the brink financially by skyrocketing utility costs,” said Sen. Amato. “Our legislation would ensure that these

volunteer emergency service organizations are charged the lowest possible utility rates, helping them stay focused on saving lives, not worrying about how to keep the lights on.”

“Our volunteer emergency service organizations are already stretched thin and treating them like businesses or commercial properties when it comes to utility rates only adds to that burden,” said Sen. Polistina. “We’ve seen local fire departments and rescue squads struggle financially, so

requiring public utilities to charge a residential rate is a fair and responsible way to provide meaningful relief and helps ensure these vital organizations remain operational for the people who depend on them.”

Sen. Amato and Sen. Polistina have met with, and heard from, many volunteer emergency service organizations in their respective districts, and worked in conjunction with those organizations to find ways to optimize their community service in light of recent financial burdens.

Senators: Donald Trump Jr.’s Job Gets Largest Defense Department Loan Ever

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) pressed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on potential conflicts of interest surrounding the awarding of multiple lucrative Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and loans to companies associated with President Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr.

“We write to obtain information on whether DoD’s decisions to hand out lucrative contracts and loans to companies associated with the President’s son may have been affected by conflicts of interest. If this is the case, it could mean that the Trump family is profiting from funds appropriated by Con-

gress to keep Americans safe, raising both ethics and national security concerns,” wrote the lawmakers.

Shortly after President Trump was elected to his second term, his son, Donald Trump Jr., announced he was joining venture capital firm 1789 Capital. After Trump Jr. joined the firm, the firm’s portfolio companies reportedly won more than $70 million worth of contracts from the Trump Administration, including:

• $45 million awarded to Cerebras Systems in April 2025 to improve artificial intelligence chip connections

• $10.8 million awarded to PsiQuantum in April 2025 for quantum chips

• $4.9 million awarded to Firehawk Aerospace in August 2025 to develop rocket engines

• $10 million to Vulcan Elements for magnets in 2025.

A separate Trump Jr.-affiliated company received a $12.8 million DoD contract last year - and another 1789 Capital-backed start-up that produces magnets in drone systems reportedly received DoD’s Office of Strategic Capital’s largest loan ever, at $620 million. Several of the Trump Jr.-connected companies had never received such large DoD contracts prior to 2025.

Trump Jr. reportedly helped screen candidates for top Pentagon jobs after his father won the 2024 election. During the process, he apparently checked whether candidates supported his own personal investment priorities, including those who wanted to “spend more on drones.”

Trump Jr. himself has alluded to possible conflicts between 1789 Capital and the Trump administration, saying that the firm “understands what the administration wants to do, because (they) helped craft some of the messaging.”

“We are concerned about the conflicts of interest of President Trump, his family, oth-

er administration officials, and any potential favoritism resulting in a waste of taxpayer dollars and a threat to national security,” wrote the lawmakers.

Senators Kim, Warren, and Blumenthal have long sounded the alarm over financial conflicts of interest in how DoD awards taxpayer dollars. Senators Kim and Warren recently introduced the Department of Defense Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act to limit the influence of contractors on the military and increase transparency over contractors and their interaction with DoD.

Senator Kim has stood up to corruption in New Jersey and continued his calls for nationwide reforms to root out corruption and conflicts of interest as the Trump administration continues to use mob boss tactics to exploit the American people for their own gain. He’s previously introduced legislation to prohibit the owning or trading of individual stocks and other “covered investments” across all three branches of government.

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.

Ocean County Man Sentenced To Five Years In Prison After High-Speed Crash

TOMS RIVER — A Lakewood man has been sentenced to five years in state prison after admitting to eluding police while intoxicated and causing a separate high-speed crash that seriously injured an off-duty police officer, Ocean County officials said.

Edwin Ramirez-Carranza, 21, received the sentence after pleading guilty to eluding and aggravated assault, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. Superior Court Judge David M.

Fritch ordered the sentences to be served concurrently. The aggravated assault conviction stems from an April 19, 2025, crash in Lakewood Township and is subject to the No Early Release Act, requiring Ramirez-Carranza to serve at least 85% of the sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

The eluding charge dates to Oct. 8, 2024, when Lakehurst police witnessed a three-vehicle crash on Route 70 and attempted to stop a Chevrolet Silverado

driven by Ramirez-Carranza, authorities said. Investigators reported that Ramirez-Carranza fled the scene and was eventually forced to stop after his vehicle became disabled in traffic. Police said he showed signs of intoxication, failed field sobriety tests and recorded a blood alcohol level above the legal limit for an underage driver.

The aggravated assault charge arose from a separate crash shortly after midnight on April 19, 2025, when authorities

said Ramirez-Carranza ran a red light at a high rate of speed and struck a Honda Civic driven by an off-duty Lakewood Township police officer who had just finished his shift. Investigators determined the Silverado was traveling about 106 mph moments before impact. The officer suffered serious injuries and was treated at Jersey Shore University Medical Center before being released. Ramirez-Carranza was also hospitalized and has remained in custody since April 20, 2025.

Most Major Insurances Accepted.

Library Sets February Programs Focused on History, Health

MANCHESTER – The Ocean County Library Manchester Branch will host a slate of educational and wellness-focused programs throughout February, offering residents opportunities to explore American history, learn about health, and connect through creativity.

Programming begins February 11 at 10 a.m. with “Our Revolution,” presented by Living Voices. The interactive program examines the Revolutionary War and the nation’s founding through the perspective of a free Black colonist, highlighting the origins of the principle that “all men are created equal.”

On February 17 at 2 p.m., the library will present “The Forgotten Presidents: Part II,” a continuation of a series spotlighting lesser-known leaders who served as president of the United States.

Animal lovers can attend “Sniffing Out Secrets: The Incredible Power of a Dog’s Nose” on February 18 at 7 p.m. The presentation will explore canine scent detection and

training, led by Therese Weiner, an AKC Canine Ambassador, along with therapy dog and entertainer Reign-Baeu.

A community health fair is scheduled for February 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Deborah Heart and Lung Center will provide free health screenings, including blood pressure checks, sleep apnea assessments, and body mass analysis. Attendees will also receive information on healthy lifestyle choices.

The month concludes February 26 at 2 p.m. with “Health and Wellness Through Creativity,” a program examining the benefits of art on personal well-being while participants engage in hands-on creative activities. Additional programs are planned throughout the month. Registration is required for all events.

For more information or to register, residents may call 732-657-7600 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

The Manchester Branch is located at 21 Colonial Drive in Manchester Township.

Kenny Rogers Tribute Show Slated For October

WHITING – A tribute concert honoring the music of country legend Kenny Rogers is set for October 2, at the Resident’s Clubhouse at Crestwood Village Five.

The show will run from 7 to 8:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m., at 325 Schoolhouse Road. The performance will feature Alan Turner and his band, with Turner recognized as a Nashville Entertainer of the Year.

Tickets cost $45 and must be purchased ahead of time, with sales beginning February 1. Tickets will be sold every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon at Village Five. No tickets will be available at the door, and all sales are final unless the event is canceled. The cutoff date for purchases is September 2, and tickets are limited.

Additional information is available by calling Debbie at 201-618-8514.

C ommunity n ew S

Corned Beef Dinner Set At Church

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will host a community corned beef and cabbage dinner on March 17, 2026, offering residents a chance to enjoy a traditional Irish meal while supporting the church.

The event will take place from 3 to 6 p.m., with doors opening at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are

$20, and a 50/50 raffle will be held during the afternoon.

The dinner will be served at the church, located at 180 Route 539 in Whiting. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the church office, which is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 732-350-2121.

Village Five Schedules Winter, Spring Dance Nights

WHITING – Crestwood Village Five has announced a series of evening dance events scheduled through April 2026, featuring a variety of live music and DJs.

The March dance is scheduled for March 6 from 7 to 11 p.m., with music by Joey D and Johnny B. Admission is $10, or $12 with

refreshments provided.

The final event in the series will take place April 3 from 7 to 11 p.m. Alfredo and Eddie will perform Latin and American dance music. Admission is $10, or $12 with refreshments, including snacks, beverages, coffee, tea and dessert.

Grand Canyon And Las Vegas Trip

WHITING – A 15-day, 14-night tour featuring the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and Hoover Dam will run June 9–23, 2026.

The motor coach trip includes 14 nights of lodging, with three consecutive nights

in a Las Vegas casino hotel. Meals include 11 breakfasts and 10 dinners.

The cost is $2,170 for double occupancy and $2,863 for single occupancy. For a brochure and more details, call Debbie at 201-618-8514.

• Family Owned & Operated

• Funeral, Cremation, Memorial Services

• Funeral Directors Live On Premises

• Serving the Area Since 1987

In light of recent rumors and misleading actions by our competitors,We want to assure our community that we are not in any negotiations to sell. Our focus remains on serving our community with the same care, compassion and commitment you’ve come to trust- now and for many years into the future.

Geri & Mike

Officer Shines At Heroes On The Mat Event

MANCHESTER – A Township police officer delivered an impressive performance at the Heroes on the Mat 5 Brazilian jiu-jitsu competition, earning a submission victory and representing his department with distinction.

Patrolman Michael Contreras competed in the Blue Belt Featherweight division and secured a win by straight ankle lock just over two minutes into the match, finishing the bout in 2 minutes, 8 seconds. The victory highlighted his technical skill, composure

and preparation on the mat.

The matchup carried a personal connection, as Contreras faced Steve McKenney of the Egg Harbor Township Police Department. The two officers previously served together during Contreras’ earlier assignment in Egg Harbor Township before he joined the Manchester Township Police Department. Department officials praised Contreras for his performance and sportsmanship, noting his efforts reflect positively on the agency both in competition and in the community.

Soulful Brunch Fundraiser To Benefit Church

WHITING – A late-winter brunch fundraiser will return to Whiting at the end of February, offering live entertainment, comfort food and a chance to support local church programs.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will host its second annual Soulful Brunch on February 28 at the parish hall, 180 Route 539. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m., with the event running from noon to 3 p.m.

The brunch will feature live music by Billy Phillips and a catered menu prepared by Chef Brian of Heavenly Eats. Organizers said the event is designed as a relaxed af-

ternoon gathering combining food, music and community fellowship.

Tickets are $38 per person and include entry to the brunch, along with a 50/50 raffle and a tricky tray. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and refunds will not be available.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will support programs at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church.

Tickets can be purchased at the church office, which is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

For additional information, residents may contact Michelle at 848-525-2359.

Bingo Extravaganza Planned At Village 5

MANCHESTER – A high-stakes afternoon of bingo is planned for April 25 at the Crestwood Village 5 Hilltop Clubhouse, where players will compete for a total of $3,000 in prizes.

The Bingo Extravaganza will be held at the clubhouse, located at 325 Schoolhouse Road, with games beginning at 1 p.m. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m., and ticket sales will start at 10 a.m.

Admission packages are priced at $40 and

include eligibility for all $3,000 in payouts. Organizers said additional paper games and 50/50 raffles will be available for purchase at the door. A jackpot featuring prizes of $200 and $1,000 is included with the admission package. The clubhouse kitchen will open at 10 a.m., offering hot and cold food, as well as desserts, for purchase throughout the day. All sales are final, and refunds will not be issued. Those seeking additional information can call Anthony at 732-674-2260.

C ommunity n ew S

Local Scouts Rally To Help Resident Snowed In By Storm

By Jason Allentoff

WHITING – Members of Scouting

America Troop 441 sprang into action this week after a call went out seeking help for a 93-year-old Whiting resident who needed a safe path cleared so her caregivers could reach her home.

According to the troop’s Scoutmaster Larry Berberich, the request was shared with families and drew an immediate response. Within an hour, Scouts and parents were on scene, clearing snow and ice from walkways and opening the driveway.

In addition to shoveling a safe path to the home, the volunteers cleared the driveway, started and moved a vehicle, and checked in with the resident, whose family said the help made a difficult day far easier.

“This kind of service doesn’t happen by accident,” Berberich said, crediting the troop’s culture of community service and the leadership of past Scoutmasters for

instilling those values.

Ellen Dzwonar, the resident’s daughter, said she turned to the Scouts after unsuccessfully contacting local emergency services and private companies for assistance.

A call to Scouting America led to a rapid response from Troop 441.

“In a matter of minutes, Larry rallied a team of local Boy Scouts to answer the call for help,” Dzwonar told Jersey Shore Online. “This scout crew did a wonderful job of clearing the snow and ice from the vehicle, driveway and front steps.”

Dzwonar praised the Scouts, their parents and leaders for their willingness to serve, saying their actions reflected strong leadership and a commitment to helping neighbors in need.

Troop leaders said the effort underscores the mission of Scouting America, emphasizing community service, teamwork and responsibility.

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Whiting Fire Installs 2026 Officers, Honors Service & Growth

Photo courtesy Whiting Fire Company Station 33

WHITING – Whiting Fire Company Station 33 marked the start of a new year of leadership and service January 24 during its 2026 Installation Dinner, an evening recognizing accomplishments from the past year while outlining goals for the year ahead. The ceremony opened with the swearing-in of the company’s 2026 officers, administered by Mayor Joseph Hankins.

Fire Chief Ian Engel reflected on a year of growth, reporting that the department responded to 535 calls in 2025, completed hundreds of hours of training and welcomed 10 new members. He also highlighted the launch of a Junior Firefighter Program, now 11 members strong, and the expansion of the Water Rescue and Recovery Team to 17 members, positioning it as a resource used beyond the local community. Engel noted the department strengthened its operational capabilities through the acquisition of new equipment, including

UTV 3307 donated by OC Powersports, an AquaEye AI sonar system and underwater lifting kit provided by The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation, and Special Operations Trailer 3304. He emphasized that the department’s “Commitment to Service” remains rooted in dependability, skill and selflessness.

The program concluded with the presentation of awards, including the Jeffrey Sloan Firefighter of the Year (Chief’s Award) to Joseph Petito Sr., Junior Firefighter of the Year to Gavin Nelson, Most Improved Junior Firefighter to Jaxson Jamison, and recognition to Nathan Brown for launching the Junior Firefighter Program. Department leaders thanked the Installation Dinner Committee, attending families and guests, members who provided call coverage during the event, and mutual aid partner JBMDL Fire Department 6761 for standby support.

Senior Scam Awareness Program

WHITING – Area seniors will have an opportunity to learn how to recognize and avoid common fraud schemes during a scam-prevention program hosted by Manchester Township police.

The presentation, part of the Senior Success Program’s WISE initiative, will be held February 9 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Crestwood Manor, located at 50 Lacey Road. A virtual participation option will

also be available.

The program will focus on identifying current scams targeting older adults, including phone, email and financial fraud, and will offer practical tips for protecting personal information. The Senior Success Program is funded in part through a grant from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. For information or to register, residents may call 732-703-7706.

Farm:

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and what that was going to mean,” she said during a recent tour of the property. “We also liked the salt element, as far as salt of the earth. It’s an enduring element.”

Salt Bridge Farm is intended to serve young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 who face barriers to stable housing. That includes individuals who have aged out of foster care, those with mental health challenges, and young people in early recovery from substance use. Many have never experienced consistent adult guidance or a stable home environment.

Rather than operating as a short-term shelter, the farm is built as a multi-phase program that allows residents to progress at their own pace.

Phase One, scheduled to open July 1, will house five to six residents in a renovated single-family home. The house includes bedrooms, shared bathrooms, a kitchen, dining space, and common living areas. A house manager will live on site to provide structure, accountability, and support.

Future phases are already planned. The neighboring house will be converted into apartment-style units, allowing for more independence. A third phase will eventually include tiny homes on the expanded acreage behind the houses.

Residents are expected to spend approximately six months in Phase One and up to a year in Phase Two, depending on individual needs and progress. Even after moving on, Bright Harbor plans to maintain long-term connections.

What A Farm Represents Veith said the decision to build the program around a working farm grew out of years of experience in mental health and social services, and a belief that growth often happens outside traditional clinical settings.

Participants in the program will be involved in animal rescue, farming, and vocational training. The property will house chickens, goats, sheep, and rescue dogs and cats. Plans include greenhouses, planting areas, and hydroponic growth. While the model is new to Ocean County, similar farm-based residential programs have been tried in other parts of the country.

“There has to be investment in the land, in watching the process and trusting the process,” Veith said. “How you tend the land is, in some ways, a reflection of what your challenges may be.”

Salt Bridge Farm is intentionally designed to avoid rigid eligibility criteria tied to diagnoses or funding categories. Instead, Bright Harbor plans to accept referrals from a wide range of sources, including schools, social service agencies, and the broader community.

Residents will help shape their own daily routines based on personal goals. The program is rooted in a philosophy that emphasizes strengths over shortcomings.

“There’s a quote we live by,” Veith said. “‘Amplified strength is far better than marginally improved weakness.’ We all have things we’re not great at. Why focus

only on that when we can help people find what they do well?”

Training Through Partnership

Salt Bridge Farm is being developed in collaboration with multiple partners. Bright Harbor is working with Ocean County Vocational Technical School and higher education institutions, including Rutgers University’s agricultural program. Plans include hands-on training opportunities in construction, farming, veterinary assistance, and culinary arts.

“We just received an award from Ocean County to build a teaching kitchen,” Veith said. “It will be a place where food grown on the farm can be used to teach skills and give back to the community.”

The farm is also expected to host students from vocational and college programs, creating an environment where learning flows in multiple directions.

From the beginning, Salt Bridge Farm was designed with long-term sustainability in mind.

Bright Harbor purchased two adjacent properties for approximately $2 million, spending about $1 million on each site. The Young Adult Bridge Housing project received initial backing from Ocean County’s distribution of American Rescue Plan Act federal funding. Veith said the project was structured to avoid reliance on longterm operating subsidies.

Operating costs will be covered through a mix of resident contributions, program-based funding, and targeted grants. Some residents will be supported through sober living or recovery-related programs, with assistance from organizations such as Sea Change and Hope Sheds Light. Others will contribute rent directly, once licensing requirements are finalized.

“When you have the house manager model, what’s really necessary are things like electricity and basic operating costs,” Veith said. “That’s what they pay into.”

The farm itself is expected to generate modest revenue over time through produce, flowers, and educational programming. Bright Harbor is exploring options such as flower sales, community-supported agriculture, and training-based partnerships.

The overarching goal is to keep the housing affordable and insulated from market pressures.

“For housing to prevent homelessness, housing has to be affordable,” Veith said. “We have to build it, manage it, and keep it outside of the market.”

The idea to locate Salt Bridge Farm on Silverton Road traces back to Toms River Council Vice President Tom Nivison, whose nearby farm helped spark the project.

“He’s the whole reason that we bought this,” Veith said. “We went to talk with him about farming in general, and he said, ‘That’s for sale across the street. Why don’t you go talk to her?’”

The former owner, a retired teacher, agreed to sell after learning about Bright Harbor’s vision. “She said her husband would be so honored to have this land continue to be a place where kids grow,” Veith said.

By Stephanie Faughnan

OCEAN COUNTY - In a year marked by rising antisemitism and deepening divisions, the Jewish Federation of Ocean County once again recognized those who chose a different path. During a Community of Caring celebration, the Federation honored Heroes Against Hate at the Clarion Hotel.

The annual event brought together a cross section of Ocean County’s civic life. Elected officials, law enforcement leaders, faith representatives, and longtime community volunteers filled the room. The purpose was not simply to celebrate individual accomplishments, but to underscore a shared responsibility. Hate does not disappear on its own. It is pushed back when people are willing to stand up, speak out, and protect one another.

Keith Krivitzky, the Federation’s executive director, served as master of ceremonies. He emphasized that standing against hate is not reserved for moments of crisis. It is a daily choice that shapes community culture, and silence is never neutral. He described an attack on a Hanukkah candle-lighting celebration in Bondi Beach near Sydney, Australia, where two terrorists opened fire on a gathering meant to share light. In response, Ahmed al Ahmed, a Syrian Muslim father of two, risked his life to disarm one of the attackers and was shot multiple times in the process.

Though the incident occurred far from

Heroes Against Hate Honored

Ocean County, Krivitzky said it reflected the purpose of the Heroes Against Hate recognition. “He (al Ahmed) is a hero against hate. He stood up for people he didn’t know because it was the right thing to do.”

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer was among those in attendance. His Hate Has No Home in Ocean County initiative, marked by prominent street-level signage, has earned state-level recognition for its effectiveness in addressing bias-motivated incidents and hate crimes.

Law Enforcement Leadership Recognized

Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy received a Heroes Against Hate award for championing cultural understanding throughout his career. Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Office partnered with the Prosecutor’s Office on the Hate Has No Home Here initiative. The ceremony also acknowledged the prominent placement of a Hanukkah menorah at the courthouse alongside the Christmas tree.

Mastronardy credited his parents for instilling the belief that everyone deserves dignity and respect. He shared a family story about his father’s friendship with Saul Kleinfeld, a Jewish war veteran whose life was shaped by the kindness of strangers.

After Kleinfeld’s car broke down in El Paso, Texas, during his honeymoon trip

to California, he and his wife were left without money. Kleinfeld spotted a Star of David in the window of a furniture store and sought help.

“He spoke to the gentleman who owned the store,” Mastronardy said. “And like many other people, what did he say? I will help you. I will take care of you.”

Kleinfeld eventually became so involved in the community that El Paso named Saul Kleinfeld Boulevard in his honor.

“For my parents giving me that attitude, everybody’s special,” Mastronardy said.

The sheriff also spoke about traveling to Poland to commemorate the Nazi death (Heroes - See Page 15)

Heroes:

Continued From Page 14

march and visiting Israel shortly after the attacks on October 7, 2023.

“There’s no more resilient people than the Jewish people,” he said. “Seeing how people respond to terrorism stays with you.”

Last year, he attended the 80th anniversary commemoration at Auschwitz alongside law enforcement officers from around the world and Holocaust survivors.

“That was a true honor,” he said. “Those stories will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

Student Strength

The Student Upstander Award, named in honor of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, was presented to Danny Hoffman of Barnegat, a first-year Penn State University student whose advocacy began even before high school.

Hoffman served as executive student body president at Barnegat High School and founded the Student Advisory Committee. He became a regular presence before the Board of Education, advocating

for stronger special education programming and speaking out when inclusive policies were repealed.

“I saw real students losing support, safety and dignity, and that’s when standing up stops being optional,” Hoffman said.

“I also learned that standing up to hate means building spaces where people don’t have to fight alone.”

“Standing up is uncomfortable,” he said. “But the cost of silence is far greater. As long as there are students being pushed aside, I will keep standing.”

Hoffman helped co-found Barnegat Pride and served as its first youth director. At Penn State, he continues his advocacy through student leadership and research.

Opening Doors

The Heroes Against Hate recognition extended beyond individuals to institutions.

Christ Episcopal Church was honored for its work serving the homeless, those battling addiction, LGBTQ individuals, and others often pushed to the margins.

Accepting the award on behalf of the church, Deacon Ted Foley emphasized listening as the foundation of their work.

“Scripture tells us that loving God isn’t enough,” Foley said. “You have to love your neighbor too.”

Dedicated Service

A new honor debuted with the presentation of the Mensch Award to George Josephsen of Toms River, a longtime Rotarian known for steady, behind-thescenes service.

Josephsen has spent 46 years with the Rotary Club of Toms River, supporting projects ranging from Sailfest to scholarship programs.

“This award belongs to my Rotary family,” he said. “Everything we do is a team effort.”

He highlighted Super Bowl Super Soul, an annual collaboration among faith groups and volunteers serving people experiencing homelessness.

“When different communities work side by side, that’s when you know you’re doing something right,” Josephsen said.

Hope After Tragedy

The evening concluded with Lifetime Achievement Awards presented to An -

nabel and Manny Lindenbaum, whose decades of leadership and advocacy have helped shape Jewish communal life in Ocean County.

Annabel, a current and past board chair of the Federation, spoke about responsibility rather than recognition. “Our country is so polarized,” she said. “Hate is hate. It doesn’t matter who it is being directed towards.”

Her remarks reflected years of service grounded in the belief that showing up matters, even when it is uncomfortable or unpopular.

Manny followed with reflections shaped by his own lived history as a Holocaust survivor. He has devoted much of his life to education and remembrance, sharing his family’s story so future generations understand the consequences of silence and hate.

He spoke about an experience in Germany, where a town unanimously voted to name a public plaza after his sister, who was murdered by the Nazis as a teenager. Children sang songs about shared humanity. There were no protests.

“That gave me hope,” he said.

Grunin Performing Arts Academy To Stage ‘Mamma Mia!’

LAKEWOOD – The OCVTS Grunin Performing Arts Academy will bring the hit musical “Mamma Mia!” to the Strand Theatre in Lakewood with three performances in February.

The student production is scheduled for February 20 at 7 p.m., followed by matinee and evening shows on February 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The performances will take place at the Strand Theatre, located at 400

Presented by the academy’s performing arts students, the show features the music of ABBA and centers on a young woman’s search for her father on a Greek island,

weaving together comedy, romance and wellknown pop songs. The production serves as a showcase for students enrolled in the academy’s theater and performance programs. Tickets are available at shorturl.at/9APeA.

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Why Do Seniors Wait Too Long To Improve Their Hearing?

Many people who are diagnosed as candidates for hearing aids postpone wearing them for up to 9 years or more. This lengthy delay is seen globally and across various demographic groups. Several factors contribute to the procrastination:

• Social stigma linked to aging, disability, or perceived frailty leads to embarrassment and fear of exclusion.

• Financial concerns due to high device costs and limited insurance coverage.

• Lack of awareness means people underestimate their hearing loss or are uninformed about new advancements in AI technology which is embedded in hearing aids.

• Denial and coping mechanisms enable individuals to ignore or adapt to their hearing loss, delaying meaningful intervention.

• Family, friends, and social environment can discourage or delay an individual’s decision to seek help or purchase hearing aids.

Delays in getting hearing aids can:

• Worsen communication challenges in daily life, leading to social withdrawal, loneliness and isolation.

• Contribute to mental health issues and accelerate cognitive decline due to untreated hearing loss.

How should we address the delay?

• Boosting public awareness about hearing loss and new hearing technologies.

• Every Senior should have a Cognitive screening free of charge.

• Reducing stigma through education and positive social messaging.

• Improve the affordability of hearing care and hearing aids. Medicare should pay a portion of the cost!

• Encouraging support from healthcare providers, family, and friends to facilitate earlier intervention.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff will continue to educate you about hearing care choices. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

That Carrot In Your Fridge Is Older Than You Think

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

I’ve been a pharmacist for decades, but I’m also a lifelong carrot eater. Raw with a pinch of salt. Roasted with thyme and rosemary. Shaved into salads. Juiced back when juicing was all the rage. Somewhere along the way, I started asking a question most people never consider: How old is this carrot?

Once you know the answer, you’ll never look at a bag of carrots the same way again.

Supermarket carrots were not pulled from the ground last week, probably not even last month. Carrots store well. Under proper commercial cold-storage conditions, they can be held for two to six months, sometimes even longer! That’s not a scandal. It’s logistics.

According to post-harvest research, carrots still look bright orange for months. They will still crunch. But internally, sugars decline, aromatic compounds fade, texture becomes woody, and a hint of bitterness occurs. That’s why a carrot can look perfect and taste rather forgettable.

Those bagged “baby carrots” are even further removed from the field. I never use those. They’re full-size carrots that were peeled, cut, shaped, rinsed in chlorinated water (a standard food-safety step), and packaged. They’re also months old. Safe? Yes. Fresh? Not especially. When I buy carrots (and I suggest you do the same) I look for ones with the green leafy tops still attached, preferably from a farmers market. Those tops are a freshness marker and indicate the carrot was harvested recently, often within days or a week. Nutritionally, that matters more than whether the carrot is grown organically or conventionally. They’ll be more

flavorful too.

Carrots are one of the most studied vegetables. Higher carrot intake has been linked to lower cardiovascular risk, better digestive and bile support due to soluble fiber, and reduced risk of certain cancers, particularly lung and gastric cancers.

Carrots are also famous for vision support because they’re rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. But here’s the nuance: some people carry BCMO1 gene variants that impair conversion of beta-carotene into active vitamin A. In those cases, eating carrots won’t correct night vision, skin, or immune issues related to vitamin A status. People with this gene variant may need preformed vitamin A instead. In other words, nutrition isn’t just about what you eat, it’s about what your body can actually use.

Carrots weren’t always orange, by the way. They used to be purple, yellow, white, and red. Dutch farmers in the 16th century selectively bred sweeter, milder, more uniform carrots that also stored better. Orange won because it outperformed the other colors.

A carrot can be months old by the time it reaches your kitchen, even though it still looks fresh. That’s perfectly fine when I’m baking carrot cake or gajar halwa, but freshness matters if you want the highest nutritional value. If you want the deeper science, the storage timelines, and what freshness really means for nutrition, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my free newsletter. I’ll email you the expanded version of this article and more practical health insights you won’t find in print.

(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) ©2026 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Around the JerSey Shore

State Programs Aim To Cut Prescription Costs For Seniors

OCEAN COUNTY – Local residents who are seniors or living with disabilities may qualify for state-funded assistance programs designed to reduce the cost of prescription medications.

The New Jersey Department of Human Services offers several options to help eligible residents manage prescription drug expenses. One of the primary programs is the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled, commonly known as PAAD, which provides financial help to qualifying seniors and individuals with disabilities to lower

out-of-pocket medication costs.

Another option is the Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program, a state-funded alternative with different income requirements and copayment structures than PAAD. Senior Gold is intended for residents who exceed PAAD income limits but still need help affording prescriptions.

Residents can review eligibility requirements and apply online through the state’s human services website. Those who need help completing an application may also contact the Ocean County Office of Senior Services at 732-929-2091 for assistance.

United Way To Host Fundraiser

TOMS RIVER – United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties will host a fundraising event later this spring featuring an evening of dining and live psychic readings. The event, titled “A Night with Spirit,” is scheduled for March 26 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Gal Mediterranean Cuisine, located at 2 Route 37 in Toms River.

Attendees will be served a buffet dinner beginning at 6 p.m., followed by gallery-style readings at 6:30 p.m. by psychic medium Dolores Rilho. Red and white wine

will be available at each table, and guests may bring their own additional beverages. Tickets cost $100 per person, and advance reservations are required. Proceeds will benefit United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties and its community programs. Businesses interested in supporting the event may participate through underwriting opportunities, which include promotional recognition during the evening. Additional information and ticket purchases are available at uwmoc.org/night-spirit.

Yiddish Film Seminar Set At Ocean County College

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College will host a free seminar in February exploring the history and cultural significance of Yiddish film, a genre that once reflected the daily lives, struggles and traditions of Jewish communities in Eastern Europe and the United States.

The three-hour program, Celebration of Yiddish Film, will begin with silent films documenting Jewish life in the shtetlach of Eastern Europe, many produced by Polish and Soviet Jewish filmmakers. The seminar will also examine the genre’s American

“Golden Age” in the late 1930s, when films blended humor, drama and social commentary on immigration, family life and identity. All films will be shown with English subtitles.

The event will be held February 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Technology Building Lecture Hall, Building 25, Room 115, on the college’s main campus. Admission is free, but registration is required.

To register or for more information, contact Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig at 732-255-0400, ext. 2368, or abotein-furrevig@ocean.edu.

Alpaca Farm Plans

Valentine’s Smooches And S’mores Event

PEMBERTON – Couples and families are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day with alpacas at Dancing Horse Farm, which is hosting its annual “Smooches & S’mores” event Feb. 14 and Feb. 15.

The Valentine-themed gathering will take place at Dancing Horse Farm, 221 Fort Dix Road, with activities scheduled for noon February 14 and 4 p.m. on February 15.

Visitors can spend time in the farm’s courtyard, pose for photos in an antique sleigh, roast

s’mores over fire pits and hand-feed alpacas. Guests will also be able to browse Valentine’s gifts in the on-site farm store, The Queen’s Cottage.

Reservations are required for the event and must be made in advance by messaging the farm directly.

Tickets cost $10 per person and include a s’mores kit and alpaca feed. Admission is $5 for children younger than 10. For more info, visit dancinghorsealpacas.com.

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

What New Jersey’s New E-Bike Law Means For Riders

By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates

bicycles (E-Bikes) are everywhere now—on neighborhood streets, bike paths, and commuter routes—and New Jersey has responded with a new law that clarifies who can ride what, where, and under what rules. If you own an e-bike (or are thinking about buying one), here’s what you need to know. First, the law draws a clear line between low-speed electric bicycles and faster, more powerful models. A low-speed electric bicycle must have working pedals, provide assistance only while pedaling, and stop assisting once the bike reaches 20 mph. Anything more powerful—such as bikes exceeding 750 watts or capable of speeds over 28 mph—falls into a different category and is treated more like a motorcycle under state law e bike law.

For most casual riders, the biggest takeaway is that low-speed electric bicycles are treated like traditional bicycles in how and where they can be used. They are generally allowed on public roads, bike lanes, and most bike paths, unless a local government specifically restricts their use. Riders are not required to carry insurance, and the same traffic rules that apply to bicycles generally apply to lowspeed e-bikes as well.

That said, low-speed e-bikes are not treated like traditional bicycles when it comes to age and licensing. Under the new law, no one under 15 may operate a low-speed e-bike. Riders ages 15 and 16 must have a motorized bicycle license or permit, and riders 17 and older must have a valid driver’s license. The main exception is for shared e-bike programs operated under municipal contracts, where riders age 16 and older may use a low-speed e-bike without holding a driver’s license, provided the program allows it. The law also cracks down on modifications. Altering an e-bike to increase its speed or selling kits designed to turn a legal e-bike into a faster motorized vehicle is now prohibited.

Bottom line: the new law aims to encourage e-bike use while improving safety and consistency across the state. If you stick with a properly classified low-speed e-bike and follow the rules of the road, you’re on solid legal ground in New Jersey.

At R.C. Shea & Associates, our attorneys are disciplined in many areas of law. Vitit our website at www.rcshea.com or give us a call for a free consultation in one of our many areas of expertise. 732-505-1212.

Ocean County Library To Close For Presidents’ Day

TOMS RIVER – All Ocean County Library branches and reading centers will be closed February 16, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

Regular operating hours will resume February 17, according to library officials.

While physical locations are closed, patrons will still have access to the library’s digital offerings, including online databases, eMagazines, eBooks, streaming video and audio, and virtual classes through the theoceancountylibrary.org.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR ADMINISTRATOR:

Rose Garden is one of the few “mom and pop” skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers left ... in the state of New Jersey. The world has turned “corporate;” we have not. It has been our core belief that the delivery of healthcare is quite personal. That “intimacy” is in danger when 5 to 100 facilities are operated in multiple states by large corporations. We have always strived for a close “family” atmosphere and believe we have succeeded. The environment is warm and inviting and exceedingly clean and spotless. Our homemade food and soups are outstanding, and the care is thoughtful, kind and productive.

We have been called the “Hotel of Healthcare.” Please ask your friends, neighbors and, most importantly, other healthcare professionals. We are here, in your neighborhood, to serve you!

Snow-laden trees arch over a winding Ocean County road following a recent winter storm, creating a peaceful scene that briefly slowed the pace of the day. Photo courtesy of Laura Michelle of the Facebook page Tri-County Scanner News. Have a pic for this space? Send it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may see it here!

Winter Safety Tips Urged With Frigid Weather

JERSEY SHORE – Local officials are urging residents to prepare for winter weather by assembling emergency supplies, limiting travel during storms and taking steps to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Emergency managers recommend gathering necessities several days before a storm arrives, including flashlights with spare batteries, portable phone chargers and enough drinking water for at least one to three days. Households are also advised to stock nonperishable food for people and pets, refill essential medications and consider emergency warming blankets. Travel should be avoided when possible during winter storms. If travel is unavoidable, officials advise driving during daylight hours, sticking to main roads and keeping an emergency kit in vehicles. That kit should include jumper cables, tire repair supplies, blankets, flares, a flashlight with batteries, a phone charger, and ice scrapers and de-icer.

Residents are also reminded to watch for signs of cold-related illnesses. Hypothermia symptoms may include uncontrollable shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory problems and slurred speech. Frostbite can cause numbness, pale or gray skin, and skin that feels firm or waxy. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms include excessive drowsiness, nausea, headaches, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Fire and carbon monoxide safety remains a major concern during the winter months. Generators should only be operated outdoors, and candles, space heaters and cooking appliances should never be left unattended. Vents should be kept clear of snow and debris, and ovens should not be used to heat homes.

Officials also encourage residents to install battery-powered combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, particularly in homes with gas heating systems, to reduce the risk of deadly accidents during the winter season.

CLASSIFIEDS

For Rent

Adult Community WhitingCrestwood Village 5. 55+. Larger 2 BD, 1 BA, powder room, porch, washer/dryer, garage. No pets. No smoking. $1,800 plus utilities. 848-326-0105. (9)

House For Rent - Silverton. Fully Furnished, 3 BDRM, 2 BTH, LRG KIT, DIN RM, FAM RM. LRG DECK, BOAT LIFT, JACUZZI, TIKI BAR & GRILL. Available for rent 2/1/26-6/30/26 $3200/MNTH, Utilities Incld, No Pets. Would consider full year rent at $4800/ MNTH. Call 201-527-0205 or email jmartinez4165@gmail.com. (7)

Items For Sale Help Wanted

Living Room Furniture For Sale - Bay window couch, like new. Antique marble coffee table. Two side coffee tables. Asking $1,000 for the set. Can be sold as individual pieces. 732-773-9415. (9)

Gorilla Giant Ladder - $150. 48" Round folding table - $25. Craftsman 9 Ballbearing Drawers - $350 and 6 drawers plus top - $300. Call Jerry 908-307-5492. (3)

Dining Table - 8 chairs (2 with arms), and hutch - $300. Oak. 732-551-5433. (t/n)

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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Jazz, Blues, Reggae. Also buying comic books. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (10)

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)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

Project Estimator: Coffey Brothers Inc., Howell, NJ: Bid Mngment & Proposal Develop't, Bid Tracking, cost estimat'n, vendor mngment, project procure't & planning, pre-construct'n mgment, stakeholder eng't; team co-ordination. Pos'n req Master deg in Const'n Mangmnt, Civil Engg or rltd field of study. OSHA Certification req. Travel req sporadically to project sites in NJ State. No out of State travel. Salary: $99,382.00 w/ std corporate benefits. Email Resumes to: wcj@msn.com. (8)

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)

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)

Receptionist/Customer ServiceExperienced Receptionist (1-3 years) for front desk in Adult Community. M-F, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Skills should be Microsoft Office proficiency applications, basic office protocols and ability to “meet and greet” pleasantly and professionally. Resume with references required. Start immediately. Please call: 732-244-8686, Ext#200. (7)

Services

PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

Handyman Solutions - Affordable prices that are budget friendly. All phases of Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Laminate Flooring • Painting • Drywall • Doors • Windows • Siding • Hand and Vinyl Railings • Decks • Minor Plumbing/Electrical and more. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030 (50)

INCOME TAXES - Toms River Firm. 30 Years experience. Personal and Small Business Returns. $100 Off with this AD. Call for appointment. 732-270-6505. (11)

YMT Vacations. Over 50 guided tours available. Affordable, social and stress-free travel designed for mature travelers. Our tours include accommodations, transportation, baggage handling, sightseeing, entrance fees, a professional Tour Director and select meals. For a limited time SAVE $250 on all tours. Call YMT today. 1-866-296-9071 (t/n)

Life Coach - Not sure how to handle something? Talk it out, get unstuck. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891. (5)

DO YOU WANT YOU CAR TO LOOK NICE AND SHINECALL LENNY < Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (46)

"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)

A PLUS CLEANING - Homes Offices AirBnB Thorough Reliable Honest Specializing in Senior Villages Call Barbara 732 948-4730. (3)

Services

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)

Housecleaning - Laundry, window, carpet, office cleaning, food shopping, painting. Call 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944. (1)

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)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, repairs, painting. 732-6743346. License #13VH03469200. (41)

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)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (7)

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)

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)

Dana’s Cleaning Service - We do homes offices and rentals. Call Dana for free in home estimate. Reliable Dependable and trustworthy, 609-703-3922. We will make your home shine. (8)

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)

In-Home Chores & Organizing for Older Adults - Available for home & closet organizing, meal preparation, errands, house cleaning, and more. Call Mary 732-703-6502. (8)

Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (t/n)

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)

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

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.

Auto For Sale • Items For Sale

Items Wanted

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:

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5. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

County Extends Motel Stay For Unhoused Group

By Stephanie Faughnan

OCEAN COUNTY – Fear overtook at least a dozen unhoused people staying in Ocean County-funded motels. Conversations were in quiet tones. Some stopped sleeping. January 5 loomed as the date many believed they would once again lose the comfort of a warm bed.

Word had spread quickly that funding for the motel placements had run out. First, people were told the contract ended on December 31, with only a brief reprieve through the holiday weekend. As the days grew colder, the rumors hardened into dread. Many worried they would be forced back to the woods, like the Winding River encampment in Toms River where some had lived before the motel rooms offered a fragile pause from survival mode. What ultimately stopped that from happening was not a last-minute decision or emergency intervention. It was language already written into the county’s agreement for homelessness and housing insecurity services. The contract authorizes the use of county funds for emergency housing and related stabilization services, including temporary motel placements, and includes a 60-day extension clause intended to prevent abrupt disruptions in care.

For the people living inside the motel rooms, the extension did not bring certainty about what comes next. But it brought time.

“Continued participation with assigned service providers is essential so individuals can transition into permanent housing solutions as quickly and safely as possible,” stressed Dr. Tracy Maksel, Deputy Ocean County Administrator.

Lives On Hold

Joy Holman has seen it all up close. A longtime local volunteer, Holman considers helping the unhoused her ministry. Nearly every day,

she loads her car with food, blankets and supplies and goes to visit the people she calls her friends.

Holman often works with people facing the greatest barriers, including mental and physical illness and substance use disorders. As January 5 approached, Holman watched anxiety ripple through the motels. She made phone calls, checked in with contacts, and tried to reassure people even when answers were scarce.

Even without the threat of her friends losing their motel stays, Holman had been active. She’s given her personal address to ensure they receive their mail. She set up appointments, met with providers, and recommended housing opportunities. Holman also took the time to introduce some of her friends to a reporter on a frigid January 3 afternoon.

Victoria is a 57-year-old woman whose eyes tell a mixed tale of sadness and fear. She lives with significant physical disabilities and survives on roughly $800 a month in disability income. Victoria remains haunted by the day she was forced to leave the Winding River camp. Her right leg could barely move, and the two-mile hike seemed endless. She left with just her pocketbook.

“I can’t go back to the woods,” she said quietly. “My body just can’t take it.”

Kathy faces the same uncertainty with quieter fear. At 76, she is among the oldest people staying in the motels. Frail and managing health issues, Kathy worries about what would happen if she were forced out, particularly because of the small dog that stays close to her side. She feels neither will survive without the other.

Victor and his wife Sylvia came to the United States from Ukraine to help with cleanup efforts following the September 11 attacks. They stayed, built a life, and raised a son who is now 24 and was born in this country. Years

later, despite that history, the family found themselves homeless.

For a time, they lived in the encampment at Winding River before being placed together in a motel room. Sylvia recently suffered a stroke, leaving Victor worried not only about housing, but about her health and access to care.

Their son Christian says he spends his days walking up and down the highway, submitting job applications wherever he can reach on foot. Without a car or reliable transportation, the search has been exhausting and unsuccessful.

Ron, 54, said his fears are physical as much as emotional. He has been homeless for more than three years and lives with kidney disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and multiple cancer diagnoses. Despite repeated attempts, he said he has been denied disability benefits.

“I don’t know if my body can take going back outside,” Ron said.

He recalled one housing opportunity that nearly worked. A landlord agreed to hold an apartment while paperwork was completed. Months passed, and the unit was eventually rented to someone else.

“They waited as long as they could,” Ron said. “Then they had to move on.”

No Permanent Solution

Many of the people now staying in motels were placed there after the Winding River encampment was shut down. The camp was organized by Minister Steve Brigham, who previously established Lakewood’s Tent City and said months ago that he had decided to stop setting up camps in the woods.

At that time, Brigham cited a Supreme Court ruling he believed effectively criminalized homelessness and said he could no longer risk placing people in situations that might lead to arrest or further harm. But with the Code Blue

warming center at capacity and motel placements uncertain, Brigham acknowledged that he has since established small, discreet camps, so people have at least some protections from the elements.

“I didn’t want to do this again,” Brigham said. “But when people have nowhere else to go, you don’t just turn your back on them.”

Jennifer Hakeem of Monarch Housing Associates and the Ending Homelessness Group said the fear experienced by motel residents reflects the instability of the housing system itself.

“We do have funding available to help pay for housing,” Hakeem said. “The hardest part is finding housing that actually exists and that people qualify for.”

She explained that one-bedroom apartments at fair-market rent are extremely scarce in Ocean County, particularly for people with very low incomes, disabilities, prior evictions, or pets. While shared housing can sometimes be an option, she emphasized that it must be voluntary.

“Our goal is stability,” Hakeem said. “Not just moving someone from one temporary situation into another.”

When January 5 passed without displacement, relief settled briefly inside the motels. But it was cautious. The extension provided time, not answers.

“This didn’t fix anything,” Holman said. “It just stopped something worse from happening right now.”

For now, that pause means heat in the middle of winter. It means a bed instead of frozen ground. It means one more night without having to choose which belongings can be carried and which will be left behind. The uncertainty remains, but for the moment, survival is not the immediate question.

Around the JerSey Shore

Larry’s Home Accepting Applications For Veteran Sober Living Program

OCEAN COUTNY – Applications are now being accepted for Larry’s Home, a sober living residence for veterans in Ocean County, according to Just Believe Inc., the nonprofit organization that operates the program.

Officials said the waiting period for the home has concluded, allowing eligible applicants to apply for residency. Larry’s Home is designed to support veterans in recovery by providing stable housing and a structured environment focused on sobriety and personal growth.

The residence is open to male veterans who

currently live in Ocean County. Organizers said the program aims to help participants rebuild their lives while fostering accountability and community support.

Those interested in applying or learning more about the program can contact Just Believe Inc. by phone at 732-279-6157 during business hours, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Community members who wish to support the program or assist veterans served by Larry’s Home are also encouraged to reach out to the organization for additional information.

Jersey Shore Comic Book Show Set To Return

TOMS RIVER – The Jersey Shore Comic Book Show is coming back to Toms River with a one-day event featuring comic creators, collectibles and pop-culture attractions.

The show is scheduled for February 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 600 Washington Street.

Organizers say the event will include a mix of artists, writers and crafters, along

with appearances by veteran comic book professionals Bob Petrecca and Neil Vokes. Members of the Star Wars 501st Legion are also expected to attend.

The family-friendly show is billed as an opportunity for fans of all ages to meet creators, browse merchandise and enjoy themed displays.

Additional details are available at jerseyshorecomicbookshow.com.

Cedar Glen Lakes To Hold Flea Market

WHITING – Cedar Glen Lakes will hold its annual community flea market on May 16, offering bargain hunters and vendors a full day of shopping and food.

The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 100 Michigan Ave. in Whiting. Tables are available for $15, and organizers

encourage interested sellers to reserve early, as space typically fills quickly. A kitchen will be open throughout the event, serving food and snacks.

For table reservations or additional information, contact Maria Vanderbilt at 609-618-4036.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Garden State Hearing And Balance Center

Acommitment to patients, coupled with technology and value have set Garden State Hearing & Balance Center apart for years, with recent investments making the treatment of hearing loss and similar conditions more manageable than ever.

The practice, which has offices in Toms River, Manahawkin and Whiting, was the first in the United States to be Audigy-Certified, a testament to its adherence to the industry’s best practices that are required for certification.

“Any business that is Audigy-Certified, from a best practices standpoint, is in the top two to three percent in the country,” said Dr. Isidore Kirsh – commonly known as Dr. Izzy – founder and director of the practice, who holds a doctorate degree (Ph.D.) from the Union Institute & University.

Kirsh said.

Hearing loss, unfortunately, often goes untreated since it is not painful and often not a priority for patients. But for the 40 million people who suffer from it, Dr. Kirsh explains, it is important that they seek diagnosis and treatment to improve their life and ensure good health.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time.”

–Dr. Kirsh

The Center performs testing for patients with auditory processing disorders and testing for people who are suffering from tinnitus – ringing in the ears – as well as hearing loss and balance issues.

Dr. Kirsh’s practice includes state-of-the art equipment to evaluate hearing and balance issues, which are often related to inner ear disorders.

“Seventy percent of patients who complain of balance problems usually have an inner ear component,” Dr.

“Over the last few years, there have been a lot of studies that show a relationship between untreated hearing loss and memory deficits such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, which means your susceptibility to obtaining these memory issues increases as a function of the hearing loss that you have,” Dr. Kirsh said. With rare exception, the only way to help preserve your hearing is through a hearing aid –sometimes a stumbling block for patients who are self-conscious about wearing one. But technological improvements have led to the devices becoming virtually invisible, and more helpful than ever.

“They can be 100 percent invisible, they can have Bluetooth as well as Wi-Fi capabilities,” Dr. Kirsh explained.

“You can stream a signal through your iPhone or your television, even movies and Broadway shows, right to your hearing aid. Most of today’s hearing aids are very inconspicuous, meaning the

is Dr. Isidore Kirsh. His offices are located at 250 Route 37 West, Toms River, 732573-4020; 53 Nautilus Drive, Suite C, 1st Floor, Manahawkin, 609-489-5415; 75 Lacey Road Ste 1B, Whiting, 732-606-4912. Visit gardenstatehearing.com for more information.

cosmetic issue is really not an issue anymore.”

Hearing aids also can have features such as GPS locator capability.

“The technology is improving significantly every year,” Dr. Kirsh said. For patients, hearing aids can be financed interest free for 24 months, and Dr. Kirsh’s practice provides free battery replacements for life. Patients can also return a hearing aid during a 75 day trial period, during which time they return to Garden State Hearing &

Balance Center a minimum of three times to check on their progress.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time,” said Dr. Kirsh.

The practice has thrived on accessibility for patients, investments in technology, and the easing of the financial aspect of treatment.

“We try to give people as much value as possible, and that really separates us from some of the other hearing care professionals out there,” Better hearing is a priceless gift! Dr. Kirsh said.

Around the JerSey Shore

MODC Luncheon Highlights Tourism, World Cup, Regional Growth

TINTON FALLS – Ocean County

Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione joined business, civic and nonprofit leaders from across Monmouth and Ocean counties for a wide-ranging discussion on regional collaboration, economic opportunity and health initiatives during the Monmouth–Ocean Development Council’s Kickoff to 2026 luncheon.

The event focused in part on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and the potential ripple effects major international sporting events can have on local economies, tourism and community engagement. Panelists discussed how large-scale events can drive infrastructure investment, promote wellness initiatives and elevate the region’s profile on a global stage.

Bacchione emphasized the importance

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of cross-county cooperation, noting that partnerships between Monmouth and Ocean counties will be critical to maximizing economic and community benefits tied to future growth and global events.

The panel also explored broader themes of health and wellness, workforce development and the role regional organizations play in preparing communities for increased activity and visitation.

Attendees included representatives from business, government and community organizations, along with a lighthearted appearance by the Jersey Shore BlueClaws’ mascot, Buster.

Organizers thanked the panelists for sharing insights on how regional planning and collaboration can help position the area to benefit from global events while strengthening local communities.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Tidings

Hoarse

Wt.

One with a platonic partner, for short

“I have no preference”

Parkway divisions 5 Has a summer job?

6 Rest of the road?

7 Sailor’s “Halt!” 8 Bug, maybe 9 Brief “You got me”

Serenade, maybe

Like comfort food 12 Like some subscriber-based apps

Wannabes

Beach widener, at times

Take the stand

Rude address

“Understood” 25 Not closed 26 Turning point 28 Merrymaking

32 Was in first

33 “The Natural” protagonist Hobbs

34 The “A” of “RHOA”: Abbr.

36 Beneficial berry

37 Pack (down)

38 Dairy structures

39 “Come to my side, pup!” 42 __ shanty

43 Cash on hand, investments, etc.

44 Give a piece of one’s mind 45 “That’d be nice”

Tag lines?

Actress Ione

Wide __

Bow projectile

Tony winner Menzel

Not close

Swiftie, to Swift

Joyful cry at a fútbol

Cut back

Needing a humidifier

ARIES (March 21-April 19): The first half of this week gives you far better odds than the 7 days starting Thursday, get it done soon or wait. Creatives could go over the top with diva behavior. Rely on your inner circle.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : Emotional upset in your living space is a possibility for a few hours, it could be better to process it fully now, so resentments don’t arise later in the week as the stars begin to sink.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Regulate before you communicate. It’s too easy to dismiss a message that comes across as overemotional — much harder to close eyes to facts presented with calm certainty.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Today’s good opportunity stars in the Universal sky still won’t make a reactive decision a good one; cool your jets, get centered and clear, before you do anything with money.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You could come across as a handful for a few hours, authenticity is one thing, bad behavior is another. Keep things appropriate so there are no messy or uncomfortable consequences to have to clean up later.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Staying grounded could be more of a challenge for part of the day than is normal. Do what you can to not get pulled out of your center, give yourself time to return to your inner home base if you do.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A friend could be triggered, or a friend could trigger

FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 7 - 13

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

you. It’s a passing phase for just a few hours, a little space to reset should be the solution. Creation remains a powerful force flowing through you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Keeping it chill in the workplace is the flex for today, it would be easy to go off and unlikely to benefit you. Remember your roots, your goals, and what you’re here for and maintain inner discipline.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Even someone you admire can sometimes lose it, today could be one of those days. Give people space to be people without judgment, everyone has their moments. Speak words of reassurance.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): An emotional appeal for money is something to walk away from now, let every financial decision be based on your goals. One personal goal should be altruism, just don’t be manipulated.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A partner could need a counterbalance for a few hours today to get back into a more stable place; you should be able to offer that today. Learning to re-regulate the nervous system can be a game-changing life hack for survivors.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Be an informed consumer of health services as with any other service. If you’re feeling concerned about a health issue, your worries could settle quickly, underneath could be a pervasive sense of wellbeing.

MOCHA MOUSSE, A SERIOUSLY SIMPLE VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT

Diane Rossen Worthington

The highlight of freezing February is Valentine’s Day. Not for going out to lunch or dinner, where the big crowds rival Mother’s Day meal service. For me, it’s all about the meal I prepare at home. I try to cook up a simple steak, veal chop or fish filet with a vegetable side so I have room to enjoy this luxuriously decadent mousse.

This recipe is a variation I learned while living in Paris. Seriously Simple to put together, the mousse can even be made in the morning, covered with plastic wrap and decorated right before serving. I also love that this mousse incorporates my two favorite flavors: chocolate and coffee. The coffee accentuates the chocolate flavor.

Egg whites are carefully beaten into a cloud of fluffiness and lighten up the mocha mixture. Cream fraiche adds a slightly sour, yet creamy tang. Make sure to use a rubber spatula to carefully fold the egg whites into the mousse. Use good-quality chocolate like Ghirardelli, Guittard or Valrhona for the best flavor.

MOCHA MOUSSE

Serves 6

8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, cut into pieces or chips

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/4 cup room temp brewed espresso or strong coffee

3 large egg yolks

1/4 cup creme fraiche

6 large egg whites

Pinch of salt

Garnish

1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped Chocolate curls, grated chocolate, strawberries or blueberries

1. In the top part of a double boiler, combine the chocolate and butter on medium heat and melt slowly. When melted, add the espresso/coffee and whisk to combine. Add the egg yolks and beat them into the mocha until well-combined. Let it cool.

2. Add the creme fraiche to the cooled chocolate mixture and mix until it is well blended.

3. In a large mixing bowl, or with an electric mixer, beat the egg whites with the salt until very stiff.

4. Fold the mocha mixture into the egg whites carefully, making sure that there are no lumps. Use a rubber spatula to carefully fold the egg whites into the mocha mixture. Pour the mixture into a 1-quart serving bowl or individual serving goblets and chill at least for 2 to 4 hours or until completely set.

5. Decorate each serving with whipped cream and the grated chocolate or chocolate curls. To make chocolate curls, use a swivel peeler and shave off the chocolate.You can also decorate with raspberries and blueberries.

Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.