The
SOUTHERN OCEAN Times Vol. 12 - No. 29
In This Week’s Edition
MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS
JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM
Sea Change: Turning The Tide On Substance Use
January 18, 2025
Boat Rescue Part Of Lifetime Of Service By Stephanie Faughnan BARNEGAT - Barnegat Police Lt. Jeff Ryan is no stranger to going above and beyond the call of duty. His career spans nearly three decades, filled with tales of bravery and leadership that he’s too humble to share. And while many people have heard about Ryan’s role in rescuing two duck hunters and their dog from the frigid waters of Barnegat Bay – there’s more to the story. The rescue unfolded on December 12, 2024 during Ryan’s off-duty hours, underscoring his belief that a police officer is “always on duty.” Even when not officially working, Ryan
BREAKING NEWS @
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Community News
(Rescue - See Page 5)
Pages 8-12
Dr. Izzy Sound News Page 14
Inside The Law Page 17
Classifieds Page 18
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Elizabeth Burke Beaty, Sea Change founder (left) and Erin McGee, Chair of the Board of Directors said their organization grew out of compassion and respect. Beaty, Sea Change offers a unique said Elizabeth, who has been in By Stephanie Faughnan SOUTHERN OCEAN COUN- blend of recovery assistance recovery for 33 years. “We’re here TY – Sea Change, a nonprofit through peer support and harm to support people in their recovery with offices in Barnegat and West reduction services, focusing on journey - not to label them or deCreek, is making waves in assist- compassion, dignity, and meeting fine them by their struggles.” Elizabeth named the organizaing people with substance use individuals where they are. “We believe all people matter and tion “Sea Change” to symbolize challenges. Officially founded in January 2021 by Elizabeth Burke should be treated with respect,” (Sea Change - See Page 4)
Beloved Rescue Lion At Popcorn Park Zoo Passes Away
By Alyssa Riccardi FORKED RIVER – After battling an aggressive form of cancer, a beloved rescue lion passed away with his sister by his side. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved lion, Aslan,” Popcorn Park Animal Refuge announced on January 10. Having been born on June 6, 2014, he was just 10 years old.
Park officials said Aslan developed a form of cancer that spread quickly despite care from staff and their veterinary team. “We are heartbroken over this loss but take comfort in knowing he will forever live on in our hearts,” Popcorn Park Animal Refuge said in a statement. Aslan and Savannah were brought to Popcorn Park after being relocated to new (Lion - See Page 6)
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Barnegat Police Lt. Jeff Ryan takes time out of his day to discuss details about the recent boat rescue and other highlights of his career.
EMS Delay: “When Are They Coming To Help Me?”
By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY - Philip Ponticello’s final moments haunt his brother John to this day. On August 15, 2015, Philip clutched his chest, gray-faced, gasping for air. “His dying words were, ‘When are they coming to help me?’” John recalls the memory of his brother’s anguish still vivid nearly a decade later. Philip, 64, had never been seriously ill in his entire life, making his sudden distress
all the more alarming. On that fateful morning, he stumbled into the living room of their Pine Ridge at Crestwood home in Whiting, clutching his chest like a man fighting for every breath. John acted quickly, administering nitroglycerin tablets of his own and calling 911. But the system failed them. The fi rst 911 call was dropped. As he placed the second call, John barely got out (EMS - See Page 7)
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