2026-05-30 - The Southern Ocean Times

SOUTHERN OCEAN

Historic Worden House “Endangered” By Development Teacher Of The Year Inspires Environmental Stewardship

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Pinelands Regional High School Teacher of the Year Jim Ardoin recently gave a presentation on his “From the Barrens to the Bay” program during a Board of Education meeting.

By Stephanie Faughnan

LITTLE EGG HARBOR - When James Ardoin tells students the bogs behind Pinelands Regional High School, he is teaching far more than science. He is helping them understand how the wetlands, forests and waterways surrounding their community shape the future of the Pine Barrens and Barnegat Bay.

The longtime educator was recently named Pinelands Regional High School’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, recognition that comes as his “From the Barrens to the Bay” ecology program continues expanding into one of the most hands-on environmental education initiatives in the region.

“I am truly honored to be recognized again as a Pinelands Teacher of the Year,” Ardoin said. “I was recognized as the Junior High School Teacher of the Year in 2014, and being named High School Teacher of the Year this year is very humbling.”

What began as a single honors ecology course following the COVID shutdown has grown into a districtwide environmental effort involving field research, water quality monitoring, community gardens, climate change initiatives and large-scale restoration projects tied directly to the school property.

During a recent presentation to the Pinelands Regional Board of Education, Ardoin explained that the program was built around helping students develop a meaningful connection to the environment around them. “We only protect what we love, we only love what we understand, and we only understand what we’re taught,” Ardoin said.

(Teacher - See Page 6)

Court Case About Dog’s Death Watched By Animal Lovers

By Stephanie Faughnan

OCEAN COUNTY - More than a dozen supporters attended arraignment proceedings for Jeffrey Lentz, the Berkeley Township man charged in connection with the death of Ruby, a French bulldog whose case continues drawing attention across Ocean County and beyond.

Lentz appeared before Judge Kimarie Rahill in Ocean County Superior Court following a May 14 indictment returned by an Ocean County grand jury. He is charged with second-de-

gree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, third-degree animal cruelty and related offenses tied to Ruby’s October 3, 2025 death. Lentz is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

During the proceeding, Assistant Prosecutor Eleni Demestihas placed the state’s plea offer on the record. Prosecutors are offering Lentz a five-year New Jersey State Prison sentence with 42 months of parole

(Animal - See Page 4)

courtesy Justice for Ruby Nicole

rests beside Ruby in a photo shared months after the French bulldog’s death. Nicole later wrote, “Seven months of not being able to sleep without you.”

By Stephanie Faughnan

LACEY - Could placement on one of New Jersey’s most endangered historic places lists stop Lacey’s Worden House from being demolished for a future QuickChek?

That question is bringing hope to some local activists after Preservation New Jersey officially named the historic farmhouse to its 2026 list of the “10 Most Endangered Historic Places in New Jersey.” The recognition has intensified an already emotional battle over the future of the Worden House and neighboring Charles A. Smith Community Hall, two buildings preservation advocates say are deeply tied to the township’s identity and Civil War-era history.

The announcement came during a May 13 gathering in Red Bank hosted by Preservation New Jersey, where more than 55 advocates assembled to highlight threatened historic sites across the state. “This year’s list reflects the breadth of what is at stake,” Preservation New Jersey President Paul Muir said during the presentation. “These places are not relics, they are living connections to who we are.”

The organization described the Worden House as “a Civil War survivor’s homestead slated for a gas station.”

For members of Save the Worden House, the designation represents another step in a years-long effort to preserve the structure. The group has also pursued applications to place the building on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. However, even if the designations

(Worden House - See Page 5)

Animal:

Continued From Page 1

ineligibility in exchange for a guilty plea to second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. The offer also includes a concurrent sentence tied to the animal cruelty charge, along with a prohibition against owning animals.

Demestihas also told the court that additional discovery was still being provided to the defense, including body worn camera footage and crime scene photographs. “I have also requested multiple times for CSI to turn over the photos,” Demestihas said. “I’m still waiting for them to turn those over.”

Many of those attending the hearing have followed developments through the “Justice for Ruby” Facebook page, which now has more than 3,500 followers. The case has drawn sustained attention because of the allegations and the family dynamics surrounding Ruby’s death. Ruby belonged to Nicole and Nick Guarino, who had left the dog in the care of Nicole’s mother and stepfather at a Berkeley Township home.

“It was the first time we left her there for a sleepover,” Nicole previously told Jersey

Shore Online. “I trusted them. What daughter wouldn’t trust her parents?”

Investigators previously said Nicole was initially told Ruby had been injured in an animal attack. A veterinarian later determined the French bulldog had been shot, with X-rays revealing a bullet lodged in the dog’s jaw.

Pre-Trial Intervention

Defense attorney Ali Homayouni appeared on behalf of Lentz. He told the court the defense recently received the state’s rejection of Lentz’s application for PTI, short for Pre-Trial Intervention. PTI is a diversionary program sometimes available to defendants with limited or no prior criminal history. Rather than proceeding directly through the traditional criminal sentencing process, eligible participants are supervised for a period of time and can potentially avoid a permanent criminal conviction if they successfully complete the program. The program is more commonly associated with lower-level indictable offenses, although prosecutors and judges can consider applications involving more serious charges under certain circumstances.

Judge Rahill noted the defense faces a

Strawberry Festival Returns

MANAHAWKIN – Ocean Community Church will host its 44th Annual Strawberry Festival at 10 a.m. June 6 at 1492 Route 72 West.

The event will feature the church’s wellknown strawberry shortcake, along with handmade crafts, attic treasures and baked goods. Admission is free.

significant legal hurdle in challenging the denial. “Well, as you know, with a PTI appeal, it’s a high burden,” Rahill told defense counsel.

Rahill scheduled oral arguments connected to the PTI appeal for June 23 at 9 a.m.

The judge also confirmed that additional motions are anticipated in the case. Homayouni indicated the defense expects to file a motion to suppress evidence depending on the outcome of the PTI proceedings.

Emotional Impact Remains

Outside the courtroom, supporters continued embracing Nicole and Nick Guarino, who have become the public faces of the “Justice for Ruby” movement.

“She wasn’t property. She was family,” Nicole previously said of Ruby. “She was like our child.”

Nicole has continued posting publicly about Ruby in the months since the dog’s death. A few weeks ago, she posted a photograph online showing Ruby asleep beside her. “Seven months of not being able to sleep without you,” Nicole wrote.

The post generated another wave of comments from followers still closely watching the criminal case.

Ruby Resolution In Trenton

The case has also sparked legislative attention in Trenton.

Assembly Joint Resolution 165 and its identical Senate counterpart, Senate Joint Resolution 129, were introduced in the New Jersey Legislature to designate October 3 of each year as “Companion Animal Cruelty Awareness Day” in New Jersey.

The proposed date corresponds with the day Ruby was reported dead.

The Assembly resolution was sponsored by Assemblymen Gregory P. McGuckin, Brian E. Rumpf and Gregory E. Myhre, with Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger listed as a co-sponsor. The Senate version was sponsored by Senators James W. Holzapfel and Carmen F. Amato Jr.

Supporters have increasingly cited the legislation as evidence that Ruby’s case has evolved into something larger than a single criminal prosecution. For many following the case, the courtroom appearances have become less about curiosity and more about ensuring Ruby’s death is not forgotten as the legal proceedings continue.

Lacey Elks Veterans Committee Meetings

LACEY – Veterans Committee meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. Lacey Elks Lodge is located at 900 Beach Boulevard, Forked River.

New members encouraged to come out and participate. They’re actively are looking to grow the committee. New people and ideas welcome.

Worden House:

Continued From Page 1 are approved, there’s no guarantee they will stop plans already put in place.

According to the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office, inclusion on the state or national registers generally does not restrict private property owners from demolishing or altering a structure unless federal or state permits, funding or licenses are involved. The state notes that stronger protections typically come through local historic preservation ordinances. That legal reality has become a central issue in the fight over the property.

Deep Ties To Civil War History

Built around 1850, the Worden House predates Lacey Township itself by more than two decades.

The home was constructed by Jacob A. Vaughn, a local shipbuilder, farmer, mariner and postmaster whose property once stretched across what was known as Vaughn Farm near present-day Forked River Elementary School. Vaughn reportedly built 39 vessels at his Forked River shipyard, specializing in three-masted schooners.

The building’s strongest historical significance, however, may stem from the Vaughn family’s Civil War story. Three of Jacob Vaughn’s sons registered for the Civil War draft. Two of them, Gustavus Augustus Vaughn and Benjamin F. Vaughn, survived imprisonment at the infamous Andersonville Prison in Georgia.

Andersonville operated for only 14 months during the Civil War, but approximately 45,000 Union soldiers were imprisoned there. Nearly 13,000 died from disease, starvation, overcrowding and exposure before Union forces liberated the camp in 1865.

Save the Worden House supporters say the building remains one of the last surviving homes connected to Andersonville survivors in New Jersey.

During the Preservation New Jersey presentation, organizers described the building as “a rare surviving mid-19th century farmhouse” and “the oldest remaining structure in the township.” The organization also said the house holds “extraordinary historic importance” because the Vaughn brothers survived Andersonville and later returned to live in the family homestead.

The house itself has already survived one major relocation. In 1982, Lacey Township moved the structure to its current location at Route 9 and Jones Road as part of a proposed historic district initiative.

Engineering Report Counters

Township Concerns

One of the biggest disputes surrounding the Worden House centers on whether the structure can safely be relocated again.

Preservation advocates have repeatedly pointed to a January 2024 structural evaluation prepared by Scope Engineering, Inc. that concluded the building showed no obvious structural damage preventing another move.

“The structure showed no readily visible signs of any deterioration or damage that would indicate that there has been any change in the structural integrity of the building that would affect the potential for moving the structure again,” engineer Matthew R. Martin wrote in the report.

Martin also stated the building “has no visible indications that another move would be of concern if done by professionals with the right equipment and experience.”

The engineer further noted the structure sits on a modern raised block foundation system built to accommodate the home’s previous move in 1982 and said he had “every confidence” the house could be lifted and relocated again “without any structural concerns.”

Preservation New Jersey echoed those findings during its endangered site presentation, stating engineering evaluations confirmed the structure remains sound and capable of safe relocation if preservation alternatives are pursued.

One challenge is that no one has offered an alternative location for relocation of the building. Township officials have also consistently maintained a far different position regarding the possibility of moving the structure.

Additional problems cited by local authorities include the presence of black mold. Further concerns point to water damage and deterioration that officials contend would be expensive to address.

Legal Challenges Continue

The controversy surrounding the

property extends beyond preservation concerns.

The proposed redevelopment also includes the neighboring Charles A. Smith Community Hall, another structure advocates believe reflects Lacey’s history. Both buildings have become the focus of public meetings, protests and litigation since township officials moved forward with plans to sell the site for redevelopment.

The property previously housed Vetwork, a nonprofit organization serving veterans. Township officials later arranged for the organization to relocate to another municipal property as redevelopment plans advanced.

Two separate lawsuits challenging aspects of the sale and redevelopment have already been dismissed. However, one of those cases is now before the New Jersey Appellate Division. Court records show RAMDUT Seaside, LLC appealed a July 10, 2025 decision dismissing a prerogative writ complaint involving the Lacey Township Zoning Board of Adjustment and the proposed developer of the QuickChek.

Meanwhile, Preservation New Jersey acknowledges its endangered list itself carries no direct legal authority. The nonprofit says the annual designation is intended to raise awareness and act as “a catalyst for change.”

For supporters of the Worden House, the hope is that public pressure, historical recognition and ongoing legal efforts might still preserve one of the township’s oldest remaining links to its past before redevelopment plans move forward.

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The “Barrens to the Bay” program focuses on three central goals: discovery, stewardship and communication. Students are encouraged not only to study local ecosystems, but also to help improve and protect them while sharing what they learn with others.

Ardoin said the Pinelands Regional campus provides opportunities few schools anywhere in New Jersey can match. The property includes bogs, wetlands, wooded trails and freshwater streams that connect to the Tuckerton Creek watershed and eventually Barnegat Bay.

“We’ve been blessed with a campus that

is huge with some amazing features that no other school in this state has,” Ardoin told those who attended the May board meeting. Ardoin narrated a slide presentation that highlighted the Giffords Mill Branch Bogs, a freshwater stream and wetland system flowing from Bass River State Forest through school property before ultimately reaching Barnegat Bay. Students regularly conduct water testing, ecological monitoring and restoration activities throughout the area while learning about the broader Pine Barrens ecosystem.

Board members learned how the program has expanded rapidly since launching during the 2022-23 school year. What started with one honors ecology course has since evolved into multiple levels of ecology

instruction, revised environmental science curriculum and stewardship projects involving students at both the high school and junior high school.

Students in the program interact with professionals from organizations including Rutgers University, Stockton University, the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve, the Barnegat Bay Partnership and the Ocean County Soil Conservation District. Ardoin said one of the goals is helping students understand that environmental science is not just something found in textbooks, but a field involving real careers and real-world problem solving happening in their own backyard.

The district’s environmental efforts have also attracted attention from state agencies.

Representatives from the New Jersey Department of Education’s Climate Change Grant program visited the district in April to observe projects associated with the second year of Pinelands Regional’s climate initiatives. Visitors toured the junior high greenhouse and gardens before exploring the high school bog areas after hearing presentations from Ardoin, Dr. Kimberly Clark and students during statewide environmental conferences earlier this year.

One of the most significant projects now tied to the program involves a nearly $1.4 million environmental restoration grant announced by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

According to the DEP, the Green Trust Alliance received a $1,389,793 grant to transform an outdated detention basin at Pinelands Regional High School into a multi-functional stormwater management system designed to improve water flow and water quality benefiting Tuckerton Creek and the Barnegat Bay watershed. The project will be managed by the Green Trust Alliance and GreenVest and will include educational opportunities for both students and the public.

bor Recreation Director Kathy Tucker and members of the township Environmental Commission regularly participate in meetings and activities.

Ardoin repeatedly emphasized that the program’s success depends heavily on collaboration and community support. “We are so lucky to have Harry & Laura Cross donating their time and talents to enrich our JHS Gardens projects,” he said. “The project just wouldn’t be the same without their input, guidance, and support.”

He also praised the junior high science staff for integrating the gardens into classroom activities and credited teacher Alex Henderson for developing curriculum associated with the district’s climate change grants.

Ardoin reserved special praise for Dr. Kimberly Clark now the acting superintendent, saying many of the district’s environmental initiatives would not exist without her support and grant writing efforts.

“Much of what you see in and around the BOGS & Green Team projects is truly attributed to her allowing me to accomplish what I’m capable of,” Ardoin said. “Her trust as well as her grant writing abilities that fund our crazy ideas have created a synergy between us and the outcomes have

created meaningful experiences that benefit our students and community.”

Ardoin said attending a recent coastal resilience conference gave him the opportunity to connect with professionals working on similar environmental restoration efforts throughout New Jersey.

“My name tag said Jim Ardoin, teacher,” he said. “So, I was like the unicorn of the conference at that moment.” He said conference attendees quickly became interested when they learned students were helping study and restore nearly 40 acres of bog habitat directly behind the school.

The environmental initiatives extend well beyond a single classroom. Ardoin said the Pinelands Green Team includes teachers, administrators, students and community members who meet monthly to discuss environmental projects and sustainability efforts both on campus and throughout the surrounding community. Little Egg Har-

Students also help maintain the junior high school gardens established through a separate $90,000 climate change grant initiative. They grow plants from seed, transplant vegetables and flowers into the gardens and help maintain harvests that are shared with community members and local food banks.

“The eighth-grade students last year designed where we were going to put all those things,” Ardoin said during his board presentation.

The slideshow presented to the board also highlighted stewardship projects ranging from bog cleanups and dune grass planting in Ship Bottom to ecological monitoring, environmental presentations and student participation in regional climate initiatives.

For Ardoin, the work ultimately comes back to helping students see themselves as part of the story of the Pine Barrens and Barnegat Bay. “If you create a compelling story that your community can tell together,” he said, “people will see themselves as necessary characters.”

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

Bill Would Fully Fund Schools, Prohibit Arbitrary Cap

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

TRENTON - Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-9 th) announced his intention to introduce legislation that would ensure school districts receive the full amount of state aid they are calculated to qualify for under New Jersey’s school funding formula by

preventing the State from artificially capping annual aid increases.

During a recent Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee hearing, the Office of Legislative Services announced that State revenues are up by $500 million. That, along with the billions of dollars in savings and responsible spending reforms Republicans have already proposed, New Jersey would have more than enough funding available to fully support every school district in

the state.

“School districts across New Jersey are being told they qualify for additional state aid under the funding formula, only to have Trenton turn around and cap that aid for budgetary convenience,” said Sen. Amato.

“Not only is that unfair to students and educators, it is a direct tax increase for property taxpayers who are forced to make up the difference. This is simple, if the State’s own formula determines a district is entitled to a certain level of funding, then the State should fully deliver it.”

This legislation is the latest step in Senator

Amato’s ongoing fight to restore fairness to New Jersey’s rigged school funding system and ensure students, teachers, and school districts receive the resources they need to provide the quality education every child deserves.

In April, Sen. Amato and Senator Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) sent a letter to Governor Sherrill requesting that immediate action be taken to fully restore school aid that was capped in the governor’s proposed budget, citing revised revenue projections and GOP budget solutions that make such increases achievable.

Heat Wave, Then Cold Snap Cost Farmers $300M

From

The Desk Of The Governor

Mikie Sherrill

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a State of Emergency following the agricultural damages that impacted the state this spring.

In mid-April, New Jersey experienced an unusual weather sequence that devastated the agricultural sector. A prolonged warm spell pushed temperatures above 90 degrees in some areas, causing fruit trees and crops to flower earlier than normal. That warm period was immediately followed by a sharp temperature drop, with lows in the 20s recorded across parts of the state between April 19 and April 22. The timing was particularly destructive as crops were at a critical developmental stage when the freeze hit, resulting in

severe injury to blossoms and newly forming fruit.

The damage was widespread, affecting peaches, cherries, pears, grapes, plums, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, apples, and other crops across the entire state. Some farmers reported losses approaching or exceeding 90 percent. In several regions, the losses may prove season-ending for key fruit crops.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture in coordination with the Farm Service Agency County Committees, suggest at least $300 million in total crop losses for growers and farmers.

With the signing of Executive Order No. 18, declaring a State of Emergency across all 21 counties, Governor Sherrill is taking action to preserve farm operations, stabilize local economies, and protect New Jersey’s agricultural capacity for future seasons.

“New Jersey’s agricultural sector is a vital engine of our economy; it is the very reason we bear the name the Garden State,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “This executive order mobilizes a whole-of-government recovery effort out of Trenton, cutting through bureaucracy and accelerating results for impacted farmers and families. Our farming families are hurting, and I won’t stand by and let it happen.”

“Governor Sherrill’s declaration of a State of Emergency sends a clear message that New Jersey stands behind its farming community in the wake of the April freeze,” said Ed Wengryn, New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture. “This executive order cuts through bureaucracy and opens the door to immediate assistance for our tree fruit and berry growers, while laying the groundwork for broader relief ahead. As our farmers work to recover, we encourage New Jerseyans to continue supporting them by buying local. When the state and federal government move

together, our farmers are stronger for it.”

The Executive Order declares a State of Emergency across New Jersey in response to the severe agricultural losses across many different crops. Recognizing the Statewide impact of this event and its evolving downstream impacts to our communities, this declaration ensures a coordinated statewide response, empowers the State to identify barriers to an effective response and recovery, and grants temporary regulatory flexibility to facilitate recovery efforts.

The extent of the damages is preliminary and the impacts from this event are still evolving.

Sherrill sent a letter to Secretary Brooke Rollins of the United States Department of Agriculture, supporting a request for a Secretarial Disaster Designation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, seeking to unlock critical federal relief for New Jersey growers facing devastating losses following the unprecedented April freeze event.

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.

Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:10-16,* application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing and the issuance of a New Jersey certification of ownership for Make MCK, Year 1971, VIN/Hull identification number 70321 371. Objections, if any, should be made in writing, immediately in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0017.

Cub Scout Pack Helps Clean Recreation Area

BARNEGAT – Volunteers from Barnegat Pack 26 spent time helping the Barnegat Recreation Department clean up a local recreation area by removing leaves and debris to improve the space for families and children.

The cleanup effort focused on creating more room for kids to play while also improving shaded picnic areas used by residents throughout the community. Recreation officials thanked the group for

stepping up and lending a hand.

The department praised the volunteers for their hard work and community spirit, saying the project reflected the importance of neighbors coming together to support local parks and public spaces.

Officials also recognized the contributions of volunteers of all ages, noting that community involvement continues to play a major role in maintaining and improving township recreation areas.

Family Promise To Host Run The Railroad 5K

LITTLE EGG HARBOR — Family Promise of the Jersey Shore will hold its second annual “Run the Railroad” 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk/Run on June 27 at Calvary Baptist Church in Little Egg Harbor. The fundraiser will begin and end at the church, located at 850 Railroad Avenue. Check-in starts at 7:15 a.m., followed by the 1-mile walk/run at 8 a.m. and the 5K race at 8:30 a.m.

Organizers said the event features a fast course, age-group awards and compli -

mentary T-shirts for the first 100 participants to register. Early registration costs $35, while race-day registration will be $40. All proceeds from the event will support local families and individuals experiencing homelessness through Family Promise of the Jersey Shore programs.

Participants can register online at my.raceresult.com/383853/registration. For more information, contact Craig at craig@ familypromisejerseyshore.org or call 609635-1073.

Historical Society Plans 250th Celebration

TUCKERTON – The Historical Society will mark America’s 250th anniversary with a special event June 6 at Little Borough Hall, 220 South Green Street.

At 2 p.m., Ebenezer Tucker will share the history of the borough that bears his name. Tucker was the first collector of customs for the Port of Little Egg Harbor and served under George Washington during the Revolutionary War.

The society will also open its gift shop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the townwide yard sale. Items for sale will include Tuckerton merchandise, a limited-edition 2-by-3-foot Semiquincentennial Flag and a smaller garden flag. Select vendors will also take part.

Admission is free. Parking will be available on Willow Landing. The rain date is June 7.

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Crayon With A Cop Brings Community Together

WARETOWN – The Township Police Department thanked residents and local law enforcement partners after a successful “Crayon With a Cop” event brought families together for an afternoon of fun and community connection.

Police said members of the department’s community policing unit spent time with children and families, sharing laughs, coloring activities and conversation while creating positive memories with the community.

Officials also recognized the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office for taking part in the event and helping make the program a success through its continued partnership and support.

The department said it appreciated ev-

eryone who attended and helped make the afternoon special, noting the event was filled with smiling faces and meaningful interactions between officers and residents.

Free Rabies Clinic

LACEY – Pet owners in Lacey will have an opportunity to vaccinate their cats and dogs during a free rabies clinic scheduled for June 6 at the township’s Public Works building. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 820 Municipal Lane in Forked River and will be held rain or shine. No appointments are required.

Officials said dogs must remain on a leash and cats must be transported in a carrying case. Residents seeking a three-year rabies certification must provide proof of current

rabies vaccination. Pets without proof will receive a one-year certificate.

Township dog licenses will also be available for purchase during the event. Licensing fees are $12 for altered or spayed pets and $15 for animals that are not altered or spayed. Rabies documentation used for licensing must remain valid through April 1, 2027.

Residents with questions can contact Lacey Township at Lacey.BOH@laceytownship. org or call 609-693-1100 ext. 2303.

Lions, Tigers, & Beers Returns

FORKED RIVER – Lions, Tigers, & Beers will return to Popcorn Park Animal Refuge on June 6 and 7, bringing a weekend of food, drinks and entertainment to benefit the refuge’s rescued animals. The event will feature craft beer, wine,

cocktails, food trucks, live music, raffles, vendors and animal encounters. Tickets are on sale now, and organizers said the event is known to sell out.

For tickets, visit ahscares.org/popcorn-park/

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June 18

Southern Ocean Chamber Night of Family Fun hosted at Fantasy Island Amusement Park 5-11pm

Chamber members and their staff a chance to relax with their families before the height of the summer season. Fantasy Island Amusement Park will provide each preregistered guest with an Unlimited Ride Wristband, along with a fun card

June 23

Evening Women in Business at Manasquan Bank Manahawkin Branch 5 to 630pm features networking, refreshments, and discussion on financial fraud prevention

Sunday, June 14 Community Watch Party & Youth Soccer Save the Dates

Southern Ocean Chamber presents World Watch Party Weekend A Weekend of Community on a Global Scale June 13-14 hosted at LBI National Golf & Resort Saturday, June 13 — World Class Business Watch Party

This exclusive cocktail style reception runs from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m., offering a curated menu, signature food stations, and networking

Memorial Day Ceremony Held At Albert Music Hall

Cadets from the Black Watch Honor Guard of Southern Regional High School Air Force JROTC NJ-931unfold “Old Glory” as part of a ceremony held at Albert Music Hall in honor of Memorial Day.

By Bob Vosseller

WARETOWN – Memorial Day was observed a few days early at Albert Music Hall with a short ceremony that preceded the evening’s entertainment on the evening of May 23.

The ceremony opened with the singing of the National Anthem. A Memorial Day poem written by Edgar Guest was recited by members of Girl Scout Troop 50323 Elysee (Ella) Jacinto, Hannah Manlulu, Lillian (Lilly) Boyd, Rhiannon Frasher and their troop leader, Stephanie Boyd.

A flag folding ceremony was conducted by the Black Watch Honor Guard Cadets from Southern Regional High School Air Force JROTC NJ-931 under the direction of Major Paul J. Calvello and Technical Sergeant Aubrey M. Vasquez. The cadets included Connor Livingstone, Christopher Glaser, Salvatore DarConte and Graceann Gunderson.

The program concluded with the playing of Taps by Peter Borchester who is a member of Forked River American Legion Post 517.

Local Animals

Ready For Adoption

STAFFORD – Luna is a very fun and energetic girl! She is two years old, and loves to play fetch and run around!

Luna is very smart and listens well too. She would benefit from a family that has experience in her breed. She does not seem to do well with other dogs or cats, so she would do best as your only furry friend! Luna is most comfortable in a home without children; she needs someone with patience to care for her. This pet is at the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter. No application should be filled out ahead of time. You need to come in person to meet the pet and fill out the application at the shelter.

Please call ahead if you have any questions at 609-978-0127.

Photo courtesy Friends Of Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter

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Masquerade Ball Celebrates Local Seniors

Gregory Henken, Councilwoman Amy Otte and Councilman George DarConte attended the event, which featured appetizers, mocktails and plenty of time on the dance floor for members of the senior community.

Photos courtesy Stafford Township

STAFFORD – Township officials joined local seniors for an afternoon of dancing, music and celebration during Stafford Recreation’s third annual Senior Citizen Prom masquerade ball.

The themed celebration was organized by the Stafford Recreation Department and gave attendees a chance to dress up and enjoy a festive social gathering with friends and neighbors.

Officials also thanked the Stafford Township Police Department for providing escorts for the women attending the event, adding a special touch to the afternoon’s festivities.

Green Fair To Offer Music, Vendors And Family Fun

STAFFORD – Residents can learn about sustainability, connect with local organizations and enjoy an evening of family-friendly entertainment during the Stafford Township Green Team’s Green Fair on July 27 at Manahawkin Lake Park.

The free event will run from 4 to 7 p.m. at the park, located at 86 N. Main St. Organizers said the fair is designed to give residents practical information and resources while creating a fun community atmosphere. Attendees can explore interactive booths, hands-on activities and educational exhibits focused on topics such as gardening, sustain-

able living and local programs available to families. Officials said the event aims to help residents find ways to save money, become more environmentally conscious and stay connected with the community.

The Green Fair will also feature a summer concert series performance and a pop-up farmers market with local vendors. Organizers said the event is open to all ages and encourages residents to stop by for entertainment, activities and community engagement. For more information, contact Rae Baldwin at 609-597-1000, ext. 8511, or email rbaldwin@staffordnj.gov.

Garden Party By The Sea Fashion Show Planned

MANAHAWKIN – St. Francis of Assisi Parish will host its annual “Garden Party By The Sea” fashion show fundraiser on June 24 at Bonnet Island Estate in Manahawkin. The event is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. at the waterfront venue located at 2380 East Bay Ave. Organizers said the afternoon will feature food, fashion and prizes, with

proceeds benefiting the parish.

Tickets are priced at $70 and became available May 1 through the parish front desk and online. Guests also can reserve tables for parties of 10 or more. Additional information and ticket details are available at stfrancisparishlbi.org/ fashion-show.

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Ocean County Organ Donation 5K Honors Husband’s Legacy

By Jason Allentoff

OCEAN COUNTY – Jennifer Severin of Barnegat is channeling grief into action as she leads “Team Big Mike” in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race on June 7.

The team was formed in memory of her husband, Michael J. Severin, who became an organ donor after his death following a motor vehicle crash in February 2020. He was 37.

Known to family and friends as “Big Mike,” Severin left behind a legacy that continues through the lives he helped save. His wife said organ donation has brought comfort to their family while giving them a way to keep his story alive.

“Michael was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone,” Jennifer Severin said. “He was a devoted husband, an incredible father, and someone who truly loved life. Knowing that he was able to help others through organ donation brings us comfort and gives us a reason to keep sharing his story.”

Michael Severin was born in Point Pleasant, grew up in Brick and later made his home in Barnegat with his wife and their daughters, Liliana and Adalina. He worked for the Ocean County Utilities Authority and

was active in his union and the Free Masons. He also enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors, but his family said being a father was the most important part of his life.

“Michael loved being a dad more than anything,” Jennifer Severin said. “He was always making memories with our girls, always making people laugh, and always putting others first. That’s exactly how we want him to be remembered.”

Through Team Big Mike, relatives and friends will gather to celebrate his life while raising awareness about the need for organ and tissue donors.

“NJ Sharing Network’s 5K is something we look forward to because it’s not just about remembering Michael — it’s about honoring the gift of life,” Jennifer Severin added.

“Seeing so many families come together, all with their own stories, is incredibly powerful. It reminds us that even in loss, there is hope.”

NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race will be held at the organization’s headquarters in New Providence. The event brings together thousands of people each year to honor donors, celebrate transplant recipients and support the Sharing Network Foundation.

To register for the 5K or support a team,

visit SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing and NJ Sharing Network, more than

100,000 people nationwide, including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents, are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant.

By Stephanie Faughnan

Barnegat’s Pheasant Run Hosts Elegant ‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’ Ladies Tea community.

BARNEGAT - For one afternoon, the clubhouse at Pheasant Run at Barnegat felt more like the setting of a classic Hollywood gathering than a neighborhood social event.

Residents came together for the community’s annual Ladies Tea, which this year featured a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” theme complete with elegant decorations, trivia, music and plenty of food.

The event has become one of the most anticipated traditions in the active adult community. Organizers explained that the tea party began about six to eight years ago as a Mother’s Day Tea before evolving into something more inclusive.

“The next year we realized a lot of women in the community didn’t come because they weren’t mothers,” organizers explained. “So, we turned it into a Ladies Tea.”

That simple change helped transform the event into a celebration honoring all women in the neighborhood.

Pheasant Run at Barnegat, which began construction in 1987, was the township’s first over-55 community and today includes 379 homes. Residents say the development’s active social calendar has helped create a close-knit atmosphere where neighbors quickly become friends.

This year’s theme came together with help from Stacy Earl Fahringer, assistant recreation director for Barnegat Township and niece of Social Committee Chairper-

son Bernadette Durazzo. Fahringer had previously hosted a similar themed event for the township and shared some of the decorations that helped transform the clubhouse for the afternoon.

A total of 84 women attended the tea. Guests were seated at assigned tables where fruit cups and croissants awaited them at each place setting. Members of the social committee later served salad along with eight different varieties of small sandwiches. Dessert featured strawberry shortcake parfaits prepared for each attendee.

The event also included trivia questions centered around the classic Audrey Hepburn film. Resident Sue Bottles entertained the crowd with a performance of “Moon River,” the iconic song associated with the movie.

Every attendee received a ticket for a Tiffany-style necklace door prize, while one lucky woman at each table won a cup of candy. Before leaving, guests were presented with Tiffany-colored gift bags containing pearls and Tiffany-style sunglasses.

Residents who attended said they appreciated the tremendous effort put into the event by the volunteers who spent months planning the tea. Those not involved in organizing the gathering expressed gratitude for being treated to such a thoughtful afternoon and said the event made them feel welcomed and appreciated within the

Organizers said planning for the tea begins shortly after the start of each year. Although the event costs approximately $1,500 to host, there is no charge for residents to attend.

The Ladies Tea is just one example of the many activities coordinated by Pheasant Run’s social committee throughout the year. Larger events include New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween and end-of-summer parties, along with karaoke nights and a Winter Wonderland celebration. The committee also organizes smaller activities such as game nights, movie nights by the pool, Friendsgiving dinners, ice cream socials and weekly coffee-and-bagel gatherings.

The volunteer social committee members who worked on the tea included Bernadette Durazzo, Sissy Berberick, Maureen Coleman, Ann Cunningham, Julie Failla, Patty Law, Pat Opel, Helen Mikulak and Bea Zasowski.

Judging by the laughter heard throughout the clubhouse, the Ladies Tea has become about far more than decorations or food. For many residents at Pheasant Run, it serves as another reminder that community connections and friendship remain at the heart of life there.

The Pheasant Run at Barnegat clubhouse was transformed with Tiffany-blue decorations and a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” backdrop for this year’s annual Ladies Tea, which welcomed 84 women from the community.

Sound News

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

Relief Contrast And Tinnitus

Many of my patients receive tinnitus relief coupled with wearing hearing aids. Tinnitus could be a “symptom” of your hearing loss, so hearing aid relief is quite common. However, some patients report that when they remove their hearing aids, their “tinnitus gets louder.” This is a subjective phenomenon called Relief contrast (also called the contrast effect)/ This refers to the common experience where tinnitus suddenly seems louder when background sound stops — even though the actual volume of the tinnitus has not increased.

It is a perception shift created by the brain, not a physical change in the ears.

Why It Happens

• Masking disappears – Background sounds were partially covering the tinnitus.

• Auditory gain increases – The brain increases sensitivity in quiet environments.

• Contrast effect – The difference between sound and silence makes tinnitus stand out more clearly. Example During the day, ambient sound and hearing aid

amplification may make tinnitus feel softer. When hearing aids are removed at night and the room becomes quiet, the tinnitus may seem louder. This change in perception is relief contrast.

• Is It Dangerous? No. Relief contrast does not mean tinnitus is worsening or that new damage is occurring. It is a normal brain response to changes in surrounding sound levels.

How to Reduce Relief Contrast

• Use low-level background sound at night (fan, white noise, or sound machine).

• Keep gentle ambient sound in very quiet rooms.

U

• se hearing aids with tinnitus masking programs if recommended.

• Avoid complete silence if tinnitus is bothersome.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide answers to all of your hearing care needs. Feel free to visit www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-451-3962 We Hear You & We are Here for You!

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Six Shore-Area HMH Hospitals Earn High CMS Ratings

NEW JERSEY – Six Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals in Central and South Jersey earned four-star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in the agency’s Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating program.

The hospitals recognized were Bayshore Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Ocean University Medical Center, Raritan Bay/Old Bridge Medical Center and Southern Ocean Medical Center. Mountainside Medical Center also received four stars but is located in North Jersey.

The CMS ratings evaluate hospitals nationwide in areas including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience and timely, effective care. Hospitals receiving four or five stars are considered among the top-performing facilities in the country.

Hackensack Meridian Health officials said the recognition highlights the network’s continued focus on patient-centered care and quality outcomes. The annual ratings are designed to help patients compare hospitals and make informed healthcare decisions.

Affordable Fitness Classes Offered

WARETOWN – Seniors and fitness enthusiasts in Southern Ocean County can take part in a variety of low-cost exercise classes at the Engel Sprague Senior Center, located at 239 11th St. in Waretown (GPS users should search Barnegat).

Zumba, toning, aerobics, and dance party sessions are available for just $3 per class, while Jazzercise is offered at $7 per class on Tuesdays and Thursdays

at 9:30 a.m. Line dancing is also available on Mondays and Fridays at 11:30 a.m., with no class held on the fourth Monday of the month.

Functional fitness chair classes are free for individuals aged 60 and older and take place at 11 a.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays. The program is funded in part by a grant from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dear Pharmacist

Why Some People Can’t Stop Picking Or Biting

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Have you ever caught yourself picking at your skin, biting your nails, or running your fingers over a rough spot until suddenly you realize… you’ve been doing it for ten minutes?

And even when you tell yourself to stop, you somehow keep going.

Most people think these behaviors are simply bad habits or nervous quirks. But as a pharmacist, I can tell you there’s often more going on beneath the surface.

In clinical medicine, these are sometimes grouped under the term body-focused repetitive behaviors, which includes nail biting, skin picking, cheek biting, and even hair pulling in more severe cases. But honestly, labels don’t help people very much.

Understanding does.

What’s important to know is that these behaviors are often tied to the nervous system’s attempt to regulate itself. They are not necessarily about lack of discipline or poor self-control.

Sometimes people do these things when they’re anxious. But just as often, they happen when someone is bored, trying to think, reading, driving, or watching TV. That tells us something important… it says it isn’t purely emotional. There’s a neurological component too.

Dopamine, the neurotransmitter involved in motivation, reward, and focus, appears to play a role. There’s also a sensory component. The act of touching, picking, or biting can create a brief shift in how the brain feels. In a strange way, the behavior becomes regulating.

The brain is getting something from it.

Over the years, I’ve also noticed patterns

involving nutrient deficiencies. Iron is one example because it’s required for dopamine production. When iron becomes slightly deficient, people may feel mentally foggy, restless, or oddly unfocused. Iron deficiency will also make you eat ice.

Magnesium matters too. It helps calm excessive signaling in the brain, and low levels can leave people feeling wired but tired. Zinc and B vitamins also support neurotransmitter balance and nervous system health.

I’m not saying supplements magically cure nail biting or face picking or other habits like this, but your brain chemistry and nutrient status plays a role.

Medications could contribute too. Some stimulants may increase repetitive behaviors in certain people, while other medications can create restlessness or sensory discomfort that indirectly worsens them. This is why I always encourage people to look at the whole picture, not just the behavior itself. When it comes to skin picking specifically, I’m not talking about the occasional pimple. I mean the cycle where the brain locks onto an imperfection, and the skin never gets a chance to heal. At that point, it’s not really about the skin anymore. It’s about the loop.

I don’t personally bite my nails, but I’ve spent decades talking with people who do, and I’ve never once thought, “Why don’t they just stop?”

Because it’s rarely as simple as a choice. These are nervous system patterns not character flaws. Sometimes what looks like a bad habit is actually your nervous system trying to solve a problem. For a more indepth version on this topic, plus my free newsletter and archived health articles, visit suzycohen.com.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2026 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

By Chris Lundy

Around the JerSey Shore

Toms River Book Show Returns June 5

TOMS RIVER - The Toms River Book Show will take place from 6-9 p.m. on June 5 in the Toms River Artist Community gallery located at 40 Main Street (Route 9) in the downtown area.

It’s the perfect opportunity to meet and support two dozen New Jersey authors.

The show takes place during one of the very well attended Downtown Night Out events. A section of Washington Street from Main Street to Hooper Avenue is closed to vehicles. People eat outside, enjoying live music and ambiance. Hundreds of people come from miles around. There will be three performances:

6:15 p.m.: Original songs and covers by Benjamin Lundy on bass.

6:45 p.m.: Readings and original music by Anthony Kisko (Gandalf Lebowski).

7:30 p.m.: Gregory Andrus, creator of “Portraits Of The Jersey Shore” will speak about his journey.

The book show is a fundraiser for the Toms River Education Foundation which helps provide extracurricular activities to enrich local children. A full list of authors is at TomsRiverBookShow.wordpress.com, including:

Gregory Andrus: Author, speaker, photographer, and founder of Portraits of the Jersey

Shore. He’ll be speaking at 7:30 p.m. at the gallery as well as signing copies of his books, “Portraits of the Jersey Shore,” “A Walk Along The Jersey Shore,” and “Sand, Sea, and Rescue.” potjs.com/

J.R. Bale is a science fiction author whose works include “Cognition Chronicles: The Redstone Legacy.” Can a soul be duplicated? Can one man’s madness save civilization? Can an artificial intelligence have a heart? These are the questions the author attempts to answer. jrbale.com

Michele Baumann: Haunted by the vengeful spirit of her dead mother, a young witch is forced to turn to dangerous and unexpected allies to survive in “The Witch Hunter’s Daughter.”

Jennifer Beilis: “Hear I Am” & “Making Positive Changes” are about self help, mental health, education and disability accommodations/advocacy.

Christopher Michael Blake: “I write horror, mystery, sci-fi thriller and a coming-of-age series about witches – Midnight Macabre, Trespass Against Us, The Cape May Murders, The Four Marks, Pyramid of the Parasite, Prey for Dawn, and the Witches Of Summer’s End series.” ChristopherMichaelBlake.com

Erin Bowker: “The Pleasant Pineapple” is a warm, engaging picture book that helps

young children explore emotions in a gentle, relatable way. booksforlittlemind.wixsite. com/author

Karen Cino: Many books including “Seaside Beer Festival:” Vicki runs a beach shop on wheels and likes life uncomplicated: sun, sandals, and selling beach towels. When a finalist in Seaside’s beer festival turns up dead, Vicki and her retired police photographer friend Angie Knowles are the ones who find her. KarenCinoBooks.com

Marian Colton: “To The Glory Of His Name!”: A collection of poetry, reflections,

(Book Show - See Page 18)

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Know Your Rights And The Importance Of Requesting Treatment If You’re Injured At Work!

By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates

According to N.J.S.A. 34:15-15 of the Workers Compensation Act, every employer within the state of New Jersey has an absolute duty to provide proper and adequate medical treatment to any employee who is injured at work. Benson v. Coca Cola Co., 120 N.J. Super60, 66 (App. Div. 1972). However, this duty only comes into effect if the employee notifies the employer of the accident and request treatment.

In 1972 the Supreme Court stated Benson v. Coca Cola Co. that if there is no demand upon the Employer to provide treatment, then the employer will not be responsible to pay for treatment, unless the request by injured worker would have been futile.

In this case the injured worker, Mr. Benson, fell off of a tank tuck and injured his head, back, and neck. He went to the company clinic with significant complaints. The company doctor examined, took x-rays (negative), and prescribed heat, muscle relaxers, and pain meds.

The injured worker refused the treatment at the company clinic and failed to follow up the next day at the company clinic as prescribed.

Later that same day the injured worker utilized his private health insurance schedule an appointment with his own doctor without notifying his employer or the workers compensation carrier. This orthopedic doctor diagnosed him with a concussion, possible spinal fracture doctor and recommended that he be hospitalized for a possible cervical injury.

After this appointment, the employee

admitted himself to the hospital without asking the employer for the recommended medical care. Thereafter, the injured worker stayed for approximately one week and was then released.

After being released the employee demanded that his employer pay the medical bills associated with his hospital stay because the employer failed to provide adequate medical care. The employer contended it was not given the opportunity to provide treatment.

At trial, the Workers’ Compensation Judge ruled that the employer should not be responsible for the treatment bills finding that the Worker’s Compensation Act did not automatically give discretion to the injured employee to seek independent medical assistance. Therefore, since the employee did not provide his employer with the opportunity to provide the recommended medical care the Judge found the outside medical treatment and hospitalization was unauthorized.

The worker appealed, and the Appellate Court found that the worker would be responsible for the cost of unauthorized treatment unless said worker can establish that he requested his employer provide him with said treatment or that he did not make the request because it would have been futile. The Appellate Court then sent the case back down to the trial court for further testimony on this issue. Moral of the story. Always ask for treatment from the employer first, preferably in writing, unless you can prove that the request would be futile.

Free Beach Program Returns

–

this summer with two weeks of free activities for kids ages

14. The program is scheduled for weekdays from July 20 through July 31, with morning sessions from 10 to 11:45 a.m. and evening activities from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Organizers said the beach-based program will feature skits, stories, songs, games and prizes geared toward children.

Evening events are expected to include activities such as scavenger hunts, “fight the tide,” a carnival and the CSSM Olympics. The event is free to attend and parents are welcome to remain during the sessions.

Organizers advised participants to bring sunscreen and water bottles. In the event of bad weather, activities will move indoors to Grace Calvary Church, 1902 Long Beach Blvd. in Ship Bottom.

Book Show:

Continued From Page 16

and ruminations from her time working as a

in the Special Education Department of Brick Schools to her life in retirement living in a 55+ community.

Lauren Covaci: “Bulletproof Heart” is 17-year-old Lena Novick’s journal entries from the fall of 1989, written while she lives with her grandmother in a small beach town in NJ. It’s the year everything changes: her friend group dissolves, her parents get divorced, she meets Ant, the Ukrainian boy across the street, and she discovers the truth about her family. Laurencovaciauthor. wordpress.com

Robert DeSando: “A Titanic Loss For New Jersey” explores, for the first time, how the tragic loss of the world’s grandest ocean liner in 1912 impacted dozens of passengers and crew with connections to New Jersey.

William Elias: “As a child, my imagination ran wild with stories that played out like vivid films in my mind. Late at night, I’d turn those visions into tales, building worlds meant to leap off the page and into the hearts of readers. Step with me into the patchwork of my life—as a husband, father, pastor, and retired policeman—and discover how these roles have shaped both the man and the writer I am today.” williameliasnovelist.com/

Luke Giordano: “The Dead Showrunners” –Who is killing Hollywood’s top TV writers? Chick Natale is a technical consultant for cop

dramas, but he’s not quite the former cop he’s told the studios he is. But when the case falls in his lap, who else could solve a murder in the city where no one tells the truth but the biggest liar in town? LukeGiordano.com

Awgwyn Havardr: “SPOREFALL” is an award-winning, horror sci-fi novella focused on Mya, a girl losing her identity, a disease that wants to control both her body and mind, and spores falling from the sky like snow that seek to claim all of humanity. awgwynhavardr.crd.co

Patrick Johns: In “The Hoarding,” an evil sorceress hoards sorcery to gain power for world domination. Her vile devastation turns kingdoms into a Junkland. patrickjohnswrites.com

Karen Kamenetsky: “Stage Frightened To Death”: Singer-songwriter Sam Cook expects to perform with her trio at the Oak Hill Folk Festival, but discovers her friend’s body and wants to find her killer. She eventually finds the clue that solves Kat’s murder, but the killer is one step behind.

Anthony Kishko: He will be performing and reading from his book, “American Fool’s Day.” Duke The Suit is mysteriously warped into a 1939 film noire just as a new and advanced technology grips power through propaganda. He teams up with the likes of Hedy Lamarr and Louis Armstrong.

William Lewis: Our newest release is titled “My Daily Piney: Heartfelt Stories Rooted in the Pine Barrens.” But we will have our other 4 bestselling books about local history

as well. pineytribe.com

Olivia Martel: “How To Fly” is a comingof-age story and a love letter to late bloomers. At the heart of the narrative is the question, Who are you when you are not being “good?”

Dawn McDonnell: “I Love You Like FOOD” is a book that showcases a unique and original artwork inspired by the love of the people in our lives. Love is a feast, a banquet of flavors, textures, and shared moments. It’s not just about food; it’s about nourishing your soul.

Paul Mila: He has incorporated the ocean and diving as the core of his writing, which includes six mystery/thriller novels, three children’s books, and a nonfiction book about ocean encounters. Vibrant underwater photography illustrates the stories. milabooks. com

Fish Nealman: “Born Posthumous” is a haunting view of identity, legacy, and time. The story follows the life of Manny Old, a legendary musician, and how his life continues even after his death. tales.fish

Pamela Martoranda: “Turning Pain Into Her Power” is an anthology comprised of 22 inspiring stories, life lessons and strength strategies to help you rise and roar. These stories don’t just inspire; they equip you with the tools to stand taller, stronger, and more unshakable. LiveYourBestLifeNJ.com

Donna Parsons: “The Excel Level 1: SkillzSet Instruction Manual is a spiral bound beginner-friendly guide designed to help students, adult learners, instructors and new professionals confidently build foundational

Excel skills. DonnaMParsons.com

Susan Pitch: “Holly and Maple” is a children’s book geared toward grades 2-4. This book follows the unlikely friendship between a holly leaf with an attitude and a maple leaf who is sweet. Its emphasis is on love, friendship, jealousy, loss, and second chances infused with science.

D.T. Scarola: “Jesus Take My Wheels” is the compelling fictional story of an athlete’s journey from devastating injury to wheelchair basketball stardom. Combining raw vulnerability with spiritual grit, the book explores the power of faith and perseverance in redefining “ability” and finding a triumphant new purpose on and off the court.

Doug Snelson: “Who’s Got The Face” is for early and beginner readers. “The Fable of the Snake Named Slim” teaches persistence, perseverance, and creative problem solving. “Everybody Deserves A Hug” is about love, kindness and understanding. “Pickleball Poetry” contains fun and whimsical verses for pickleball players of all ages to think about.

DougSnelson.com

Iolanda S.: “The Wolfe and the Sparrow”: WWII shatters the world of prima ballerina Julienne Auclair. When a defiant performance lands her in a prison camp, Julienne is drawn into dangerous proximity with the camp’s Commandant. Julienne faces a moral dilemma: Is it safer to stay silent, or will she risk everything to save others? – 18+ Readers for dark themes and content. TikTok: @ IOLANDA.S

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Garage

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CLASSIFIEDS

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A lone angler casts a line into the calm waters of the Jersey

as a

closes out the day, offering a peaceful reminder that the summer season is just about here. Photo by Patrick

Howell. Want to see your Jersey Shore photo in this space? Email your pictures to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com.

St. Francis Hiring For Recreation, Aquatics Jobs

LONG BEACH ISLAND – St. Francis Community Center is looking to hire recreation and aquatics staff for several open positions.

The center is seeking sports clinic coaches to lead youth programs including T-ball, volleyball, flag football, yoga, Zumba, strength and conditioning, and other athletic skill development activities. Swim lesson instructors are also needed to teach youth lessons and promote water safety.

Additional openings include a certified pool operator to help oversee aquatic facility operations, maintenance and safety, and seasonal summer lifeguards to maintain a safe swimming environment and support aquatics programs.

Applicants should contact Emily Smith, director of recreation and aquatics, at esmith@stfrancislbi.org. The center is located at 4700 Long Beach Blvd. in Long Beach.

Around the JerSey Shore

BlueClaws To Play As Jersey Tomatoes In Nod To State Agriculture

JERSEY SHORE —

The Jersey Shore BlueClaws will take the field as the Jersey Tomatoes on August 6 as part of a promotion highlighting New Jersey’s agricultural industry in partnership with Jersey Fresh.

The team said tickets and themed merchandise for Jersey Tomatoes Night are already on sale, with apparel available through the BlueClaws’ online shop at BlueClaws.com.

New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn said the event ties together two longstanding parts of the state’s identity — farming and baseball — while helping promote produce grown under the Jersey Fresh label.

BlueClaws General Manager Bob McLane said the club will use the August event, along with related promotions during the summer, to recognize not only tomatoes but the broader farming community across the state.

The alternate identity includes a logo showing a tomato in flight wearing sunglasses with New Jersey reflected in the lenses. Players will wear green caps, while the jerseys will feature “Jersey Tomatoes” in a rustic-style green script with tomato-themed lettering.

The club said the promotion comes as New Jersey continues to market its Garden State

reputation. State figures cited by the team show that, in 2024, New Jersey had more than 9,900 farms across 690,000 acres, generating more than $1.6 billion in sales. The state also ranked sixth nationally in tomato production, harvesting 70 million pounds on 2,500 acres, worth $56.5 million.

The BlueClaws said fans can find fitted and adjustable Jersey Tomatoes caps, along with other items, through the team store.

Jersey Tomatoes is the second alternate identity unveiled by the club this year. The first, the Jersey Shore Pork Rollers, is scheduled to appear on June 18.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture, founded in 1916, oversees programs aimed at supporting farms, protecting plant and animal health, safeguarding the food supply and promoting locally grown products through Jersey Fresh.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

1 Warby Parker

7 Shipping inquiry

Wine gadget 15 Flow swiftly 16 Like many Basquiat works 18 Swahili for “trouble” 19 Baby gear that allows safe snuggling 21 Booking.com option 22 Some farm ruminants 23 Takes steps? 25 “In order to be, never try to __”: Camus

Bang-up stuff

Product with a leprechaun mascot

Puts on the spot?

Soak (up)

8 Freedom to __: rights of public access

9 Routinely insured against a crash 10 Collapsed dramatically 11 Prizes 12 Domains 14 Prepares to go home

17 Sets of slides 20 “Video Games” singer Lana Del __ 24 Time to enforce bedtime 27 Italian ride, casually

Privileged ones 2 Celebrity 3 Creative gift 4 Posts 5 Extension that makes something smaller? 6 Raison d’être 7 Old film channel

28 “The Little Mermaid” star Bailey 29 Dessert ingredient also called ube 31 One of the two major Sanskrit epics in Hinduism 32 __ nerve

33 Is underhanded 34 All over the lino, perhaps 35 Deep fissures 36 FDR power project 37 Meals that tell a story of liberation 38 Bodysuit

39 Tacos al __

42 More likely to win the annual Gerber Photo Search, perhaps

44 Forecast no.

46 You, once

48 Like some reno projects

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Communications could become easier around money and financial matters, a lot could be moving from confusion to clarity. Drawing on old well-tested methods and habits can be the best way to get tasks done today.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Continue to work on financial solutions, the stars are helping you for another week or so until the current pattern falls apart in the sky. If you can break free, even for an hour, do it: Create, sing, dance, play.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): While you may not want to prioritize money, it’s a survival necessity and you’re likely to be exploring the topic for the next little bit — learn what the Universe is teaching. Spend time in your home base.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You could be moving away from consternation and confusion and toward a greater sense of self, deep down. Self-exploration and self-discovery are pieces of self-love. Share from the heart.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A confounding plot twist in a friendship or group might be over now, things could revert to a more normal state. It’s a poor time to make economic decisions, there’s too much impulsivity and reactivity in your financial sector now.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Career matters could be smoothing out, there could be a shot at a new job, a raise, or a profitable side gig. Today could be a fun day for a low-key glow up but don’t make big changes to appearance for another day or so.

FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 30 - JUNE 5 BY

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If you find a financial guru, investigate and at least consider their advice, you could learn things that help you monetize more effectively. Self-work is like other forms of hygiene, you have to keep things clean to move forward.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The deepest bonds can be in platonic friendships, sometimes they can be truer because romantic attraction doesn’t need to be present and isn’t a driving force. Shared resources could become more equitable.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You and someone close may need to consider joint financial interests for the next few days, there could be greater clarity and fewer power plays now. When you work with love, it’s not only work, it’s also love.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Little happens when entangled in a no-win situation, you might be able to make a lot more progress today. If you don’t feel understood by the people around you, consider participating in an online community.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When creativity and earning capacity meet, a lot can be accomplished that is also enjoyable. You could get the idea that puts these themes together soon. Don’t negotiate now, you could be too emotional.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A domestic tangle could be resolving, and new financial resources could emerge to help support your life. Deep sharing with a partner could happen now, what’s unclear is whether it’s warm feelings or revisiting the past.

SPLIT PEA SOUP WITH CRISPY BACON PERFECT FOR A CHILLY DAY

Diane Rossen Worthington

Spring can have surprising weather swings from sunny, warm days to rainy, cold ones. This soup is always appreciated at those unexpected chilly times.

A wonderful weekday main course soup for lunch or dinner, this soup is full of flavor, color and very hearty; a meal in one. Split peas don’t need soaking, so you can make this in about an hour at the end of the day. If you’ve ever wondered what a split pea is, they are field peas that are grown especially for drying.

Bacon is included in the soup and as a garnish on top. The smoky flavor adds an important layer of flavor to the soup. The crumbled bacon garnish adds a savory counterpoint to the creamy, naturally sweet split pea flavor. For a variation, garnish the soup with chopped honey-baked ham or crispy prosciutto.

Serve this with a simple vegetable salad and warm, crusty French bread. A glass of a full-bodied pinot noir or zinfandel is a nice beverage accompaniment.

Serves 4

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 stalk celery, sliced

2 small carrots, peeled and sliced

1 cup split peas, green or yellow, rinsed and picked over

4 cups chicken or vegetable stock

2 bacon slices

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh marjoram or 1/4 teaspoon dried 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried

Salt and small pinch freshly ground black pepper

To garnish: 1/4-pound bacon, fried until crisp, drained on paper towels, and coarsely chopped

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Saute onion for 3 to 5 minutes or until softened. Add celery and carrots; saute for another 3 minutes or until just slightly softened.

2. Add split peas, stock, bacon slices and herbs. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Partially cover and cook for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Remove bacon slices.

3. Coarsely puree 2 cups of soup in a food processor fitted with a metal blade or process with a hand blender in the pot just until the desired texture is reached. Return the pureed soup to the soup pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Taste for seasoning.

4. To serve: Ladle into heated soup bowls and garnish with the crispy crumbled bacon. Serve immediately. Make ahead: This soup can be made up to three days ahead, covered and refrigerated. It also can be frozen for up to three months.