2026-06-20 - The Southern Ocean Times

When Senior Housing Costs Rise, Something Has To Give Oyster Creek Could Have

(Clockwise from left) Summit West resident Beth Mann says repeated rent increases have forced her to delay retirement and replacing an aging vehicle. Deborah D’Augelli and John Bartram says rising rent costs and the loss of nearly $300 per month in SNAP benefits have created new financial challenges. Lori Novotny-Hill and her son, Justin, are dealing with rent increases and mounting medical costs.

By Stephanie Faughnan STAFFORD

– This is the second installment in an ongoing series examining the high cost of aging in Ocean County and the difficult choices many older adults face as housing, healthcare, food and other essential expenses continue to rise faster

than fixed incomes. The series was inspired in part by the experiences of residents at Summit West, an 18-home age-restricted rental community in Stafford Township. Their stories have also been documented through a collection of online videos posted under the banner

“Summit West Stories,” where residents describe the financial pressures they say have accompanied significant rent increases over the past several years.

Last year, a number of Summit West residents saw their rents increase by as much as 20 percent.

(Housing - See Page 4)

Locals Lose Thousands To Scams

By Michala F. DiLorenzo

BARNEGAT - The impact of bank and investment fraud scams is soaring in Barnegat Township, with thousands lost as scammers become harder to detect and defeat.

Barnegat Township Police said they receive two to three re -

ports a day of these dangerous robocalls. Since 2021, locals have lost $500,000 to scammers because of new technologies which make robocalls harder to recognize. While the tactics or messaging may vary, these robocalls tend to follow the same script. You may receive a

phone call from a suspicious number, with the caller asking you to confirm specific charges on your bank account. Once you confirm these charges, the caller claims your account has been compromised.

After the scammer informs you that your account has been com-

promised, Barnegat

Police Detective Rob Armstrong said some scammers then instruct victims to cut up their debit or credit cards and give the card’s chip to an unidentified courier. Others ask victims to move their money into a crypto ATM machine.

“People go to the bank, withdraw all their mon-

ey and they’ll be directed to a crypto ATM,” Armstrong said. “Once it goes in there, it’s impossible to trace by then.”

As scammers are strengthening their methods to steal your money, it is important to be aware of these calls and how to protect your money. Scammers

(Scams - See Page 14)

Four New Nuclear Reactors

By Stephanie Faughnan

LACEY – The Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station could once again produce nuclear power under a concept being explored by Holtec International that would place four small modular reactors at the Lacey Township site after decommissioning is complete.

The concept was discussed during a recent nuclear energy confer-

ence hosted by Rowan University’s Steve Sweeney Center for Public Policy, where state officials, lawmakers and industry representatives examined how nuclear energy could help meet New Jersey’s growing demand for electricity. The discussion comes as New Jersey officials examine ways to meet growing electricity demand while maintaining carbon-free generation.

(Oyster - See Page 5)

Wrong Suspect ID’d After ICE Officer Hit By Van, Correct Man In Custody

By Stephanie Faughnan and Jason Allentoff

MANAHAWKIN - An undocumented resident living in Barnegat has been charged with hitting and injuring a federal immigration officer with a contractor van during an enforcement stop in Stafford, according to federal prosecutors, while a Peruvian national initially identified after the incident does not appear to be the man now accused in court documents.

Eduardo Cruz Garcia, 39, was charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer while the officer was engaged in official duties and inflicting bodily injury, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.

The federal complaint names Cruz Garcia as the driver of the van involved in the June 15 incident in Manahawkin at the corner of Route 72 and Mermaid Drive. That filing comes after ICE initially identified the person involved as Friedrich Castillo-Ormeno, a Peruvian national

(Agent - See Page 8)

Housing:

Continued From Page 1

As older adults living on fixed or limited incomes, the increase felt staggering. Their frustration only grew after learning that a new state law limiting annual rent increases in many manufactured-home communities to 3.5 percent would not apply to them.

The distinction comes down to ownership. The law protects residents who own their homes and lease the land beneath them. Summit West residents rent both the homes and the land. Just a short distance away, residents of West Bay Village, another age-restricted community owned by Trivan Properties LLC, qualify for the protections because they own their homes and lease their lots.

Trivan Properties owns both communities and has not responded to multiple requests for comment.

Now, some Summit West residents are preparing for another increase of approximately 8 percent when their leases come up for renewal.

The first installment in this series explored how those rent increases have raised concerns about housing affordability and long-term stability. This second chapter examines what happens after the rent notices arrive.

Residents say the consequences reach far beyond housing. They affect groceries, healthcare, transportation, savings and, for some, the possibility of retirement itself.

Retirement Keeps Moving Further Away

Beth Mann will turn 60 this year. She still operates a small marketing business and never expected to retire immediately. However, she believed retirement would eventually be an option.

Today, she is no longer certain.

Her car, a 2011 model, is showing its age.

“I can’t afford to get a new car,” Mann said. “It’s rusted out on the bottom. I was hoping I could maybe swing that this year, but not with these rent increases.”

The financial strain extends beyond transportation. Mann said she has not taken a vacation in more than 20 years. Despite maintaining a business and good credit, she still applies for SNAP benefits and utility assistance programs.

When she moved into Summit West, she found a home she could afford, but one that needed work. Walls stained by cigarette smoke required painting and worn carpeting contained burn marks.

The property owner declined to make the improvements. Mann paid for them herself. At the time, she viewed the expense as an investment in a home where she expected to remain for years.

Now she worries that continued rent increases could eventually force her to tap into savings intended for retirement.

“You shouldn’t have to break into your retirement fund for this,” she said.

For Mann, the concern is no longer simply about housing costs. It is whether retirement itself will ever become financially attainable.

Back To Work

Raymond Dolan thought his working years were behind him. Today, he washes dishes at a local restaurant several days a week. Dolan said he returned to work because his expenses continued to rise while his income remained largely unchanged.

When his vehicle stopped running, he could not afford to replace it. Now he walks approximately five miles each day to get to and from work.

To reduce expenses even further, Dolan said he does not run air conditioning in his home. The paycheck helps cover bills, but it is not enough to eliminate the pressure created by rising costs.

“I can’t afford anything else,” he said. “I have to rely on SNAP in order to get food in my house.”

The financial strain has also affected his healthcare decisions. Dolan said he stopped seeing specialists who treated him following a cancer diagnosis because the cost became difficult to justify.

His experience reflects a concern increasingly voiced by advocates for older adults. When housing consumes a growing share of a household budget, other necessities often become negotiable.

The SNAP Surprise

For Deborah D’Augelli and her fiance, John Bartram, the financial pressure arrived from two directions at once. The couple learned they would lose nearly $300 per month in SNAP bene -

fits around the same time they received notice of another rent increase.

Bartram, who is legally blind and lives with multiple sclerosis, said many people underestimate how quickly a household budget can unravel. The loss in food assistance immediately changed the couple’s financial outlook.

A higher rent payment meant less flexibility. It also meant finding additional money to supplement the security deposit required under their lease. Together, the changes forced difficult decisions about where spending could be reduced.

Like many Summit West residents, they found themselves trying to stretch a budget that already had little room to spare. Their rent increase was not 20 percent, but it was close enough to create serious concern.

“If they raise it 17 percent again, where are you going to move to?” Bartram asked. “It’s going to cost as much or more.”

Their experience reflects a growing issue facing older adults throughout New Jersey.

According to New Jersey Advocates for Aging Well, nearly one in 10 New Jersey residents age 50 and older experiences food insecurity, affecting approximately 340,000 people statewide.

Adult Children With Disabilities

Lori Novotny-Hill faces a different set of challenges. She serves as the primary (Housing - See Page 18)

Oyster:

Continued From Page 1

During the conference, Holtec Director of Government Affairs and Communications

Patrick O’Brien identified Oyster Creek as a logical location for future nuclear development.

“The easiest place to site new nuclear is where you already have nuclear,” O’Brien said. “You have a knowledge base, you have a workforce, you have an understanding of the risks and benefits of what nuclear is. Oyster Creek presents that opportunity.”

Holtec later confirmed additional details in response to questions. According to O’Brien, Oyster Creek is being considered as a follow-on project after the company’s first small modular reactors are deployed at the Palisades site in Michigan.

“Still early, as the Oyster Creek plans are for a potential project on our site to follow the first two Holtec SMR 300s being built at the Palisades restart project site in Covert Michigan,” O’Brien said.

Those reactors are expected to come online in the early 2030s.

Under the concept currently being evaluated, Oyster Creek would host four of Holtec’s Generation 3+ pressurized water reactors. “OC would be four 340mw reactors of our PWR Generation 3+ design,” O’Brien said.

Combined, the four reactors would generate approximately 1,360 megawatts of electricity, more than double the output of the single reactor that operated at Oyster Creek before it went offline in 2018.

The original Oyster Creek reactor gener-

ated approximately 625 megawatts before the plant closed in 2018.

While no formal application has been submitted, local officials say they support redevelopment of the site, noting that discussions remain preliminary. “The township supports the redevelopment of the Oyster Creek site including the potential SMRs,” Mayor Steven Kennis said. “We will support the efforts of Holtec as best we can while also looking out for the best interest of Lacey taxpayers and residents.”

Decommissioning Continues

The discussion of new reactors may come as a surprise to some residents who believed Oyster Creek’s nuclear history was ending with the current decommissioning project. Oyster Creek ceased operations in September 2018 after nearly 50 years of service.

Holtec acquired Oyster Creek following its closure and is currently dismantling the former plant. “Decommissioning remains on track,” O’Brien said.

During the Rowan conference, O’Brien said former nuclear sites offer significant advantages when considering locations for future reactors. Part of the appeal is the existing infrastructure and workforce already associated with the site.

“We’ll have that facility decommissioned by 2031. We’re on track there, and that lays us out as a follow-on project for the Palisades site,” O’Brien said. “That will be potentially four units at that site, which would exactly double what used to sit on the Oyster Creek site.”

Assemblyman Greg Myhre (R-9th), whose

district includes Lacey Township, voiced strong support for the concept during the conference.

“I would 100 percent love to have all the focus on Oyster Creek,” Myhre said while discussing legislation intended to encourage small modular reactor development.

Myhre said many residents still view the plant’s closure as an economic loss. “They have not gotten over the closure of Oyster Creek,” he said. “When I say they, the majority, a big majority of the population wants to have a nuclear power plant operating there.”

Jobs And Economic Impact

Holtec officials said a future Oyster Creek project could bring hundreds of permanent jobs to the area. O’Brien said Holtec’s two-reactor Palisades project is expected to support roughly 540 permanent jobs, suggesting similar economic benefits could accompany future reactor development elsewhere.

Beyond employment, supporters argue that small modular reactors could help address increasing electricity demand driven by electrification, artificial intelligence and data centers.

At the conference, O’Brien said the nation faces a broader challenge of replacing aging power generation while meeting future demand.

“We have to get it right now,” he said. “You’re going to have to build new nuclear right now to meet demand, whether it’s AI, electrification. We’re also going to have to show that we can build new nuclear to

replace the current fleet.”

Safety And Fuel Storage

Holtec’s SMR-300 design remains under review by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and has not yet received final approval for construction.

The company says the reactors rely on passive safety systems intended to function without external power or operator intervention during certain emergency scenarios. “The reactors have passive safety systems allowing a potential Emergency Planning Zone to be the site boundary,” O’Brien said.

Traditional nuclear plants generally maintain emergency planning zones extending beyond plant property lines. Any reduction in emergency planning requirements would ultimately require approval from federal regulators.

Questions also remain about the spent nuclear fuel currently stored at Oyster Creek. O’Brien said the fuel from the original reactor will remain at the site until the federal government fulfills its obligation to remove commercial nuclear waste.

The fuel is currently stored in dry cask storage systems on the Oyster Creek property.

During the Rowan conference, O’Brien argued that long-term fuel storage is no longer a technical challenge. “At the end of the day, when you talk about spent fuel, it is not a scientific issue,” he said. “We know how to safely store fuel. It is 100% a political issue.”

Critics of nuclear power continue to raise (Oyster - See Page 18)

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

Have A Fabulous

The Fourth of July is coming up fast and this year the birthday celebration should be bigger and better than most because we have reached the milestone year of 250, but it does seem like there isn’t a lot of hoopla going on nationally or even as much as expected, locally.

On the national front things are a bit chaotic. The Freedom 250 celebration looked like it was headed for cancelation after a wave of musicians pulled out.

President Donald Trump expressed his view that it should be canceled but that has since changed. For those unaware, Freedom 250 is the group that is organizing the administration’s events for the birthday celebration. They announced a series of nine musical acts would perform during a 16day exposition - known as the Great American State Fair - on the National Mall later this month with festivities surrounding America’s big birthday bash. Trump’s alternative isn’t

all that inspiring. “We should have a giant Make America Great Again Rally, for 250, instead of having overpriced singers, who nobody wants to hear, whose music is boring, and yet who do nothing but complain,” the president said. One has to ask, well why did the administration choose those particular singers if that was the case?

The musicians were to have canceled because the event had become more partisan so now the president wants to make it completely partisan with his organization rally? Do we really need a political event to sidestep what should be a non-political celebration? I don’t think so!

I still recall our Bicentennial year in 1976 and enjoyed watching all those Bicentennial Minutes that commemorated the American Revolution with segments produced by CBS. The network broadcast each night from July 4, 1974 until December 31, 1976. Oh, how our world and country have changed in a

EDITORIAL

4th Of July Celebrating America 250

half century. That feeling of learning and celebrating our heritage seems to have been replaced by pessimism over our immediate future. Even without some grand celebration, we’re Americans, the party will happen locally.

Along the Jersey Shore we know how to have a patriotic good time. In Ocean County we have a variety of celebrations of fireworks, food trucks and get togethers but some of those have run into economic issues.

One town that provided a nice snapshot of Independence Day with its borough historical society sponsored car show, a street fair, vendors from the community (where the local Girl Scouts served up the best cheeseburgers ever grilled and a local church provided free lemonade) was Lakehurst Borough. It also included a fireworks display the night before and a parade along Union Avenue.

This year the car show was unable to be organized and due to the recent dissolve-

ment of the town’s 113-yearold Fire Company it was decided the parade would not be held but some kind of celebration would occur in the fall. At first fireworks looked to be too costly; an impact of the president’s tariffs had caused the price to increase as most came from China. A drone show alternative proved even more expensive. There does appear to be a plan for pyrotechnics in the borough after all.

Likewise nearby Manchester is incorporating the 250-celebration theme into its Manchester Day event on June 27. Jackson’s 4th of July festivities are said to feature a flea market and fireworks on July 11 at one of its parks. Toms River’s Independence Day celebration will center around massive waterfront fireworks, historic 250th-anniversary programs, and nearby regional festivities. Because Toms River serves as the county seat, several special events commemorate America’s 250th Independence Day starting on July

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

2 with a “Patriotic Extravaganza” which is an early Independence celebration with concerts and a drone show taking place at 1198 Bandon Road (Parks Administration Building) at 7:30 p.m.

On July 4, you can enjoy “Bells Across America” at the Ocean County Courthouse (118 Washington Street from 1 to 3 p.m. for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence and a statewide ceremonial ringing of bells.

The Ocean County Library’s Toms River Branch on Washington Street is hosting a special community 250th Anniversary concert from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on July 4. There will also be fireworks in Beachwood as part of that community’s 90-year-old tradition will light up the sky over Toms River at dusk.

Seaside Heights will have its fireworks display off the oceanfront on July 4. Brick Township will host its annual SummerFest concert series with fireworks taking place on July 3 at Windward

Beach Park. This event will feature live music, food trucks, and a fireworks finale.

Close by in Point Pleasant Beach, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk will have their Independence Day fireworks display at dusk on July 4. The Jersey Shore BlueClaws based in Lakewood will host a “Red, White & BlueClaws” fireworks night after their baseball game at Shore Town Ballpark on July 3. For additional details, history tours, and schedule updates, visit the Ocean County Tourism 250th Anniversary or the Beachwood, New Jersey Government Calendar. Whatever you do, be safe, have fun and remember that America still has a lot to celebrate and no matter how bleak things may appear currently, the American dream remains for a brighter future for everyone!

Bob Vosseller, Assistant News Editor

New Jersey has more at stake in foreign aid than most realize. Johnson & Johnson and Merck have spent years collaborating on global health programs to save lives abroad and support jobs at home. When America retreats from the world, New Jersey loses too, including its contracts, research, jobs, and standing. And America is doing

The Southern Ocean Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns. All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

just that. Since the United States shut down USAID in January 2025, an estimated 800,000 people have died, with The Lancet warning that 14 million more could die by 2030. One was Peter Donde, a ten-yearold who lost access to the HIV medicine keeping him alive. I learned his name interning at the Alliance for American Leadership, and I have not forgotten his story since.

I am the daughter and granddaughter of immigrants who built a life in Holmdel because America opened its doors to them, which taught me that a nation generous inward must be generous beyond its borders. Studying abroad in Ireland showed me how American investment and diplomacy shape lasting goodwill in a country, with

foreign aid being the backbone of American leadership and global stability. American assistance has lifted nearly a billion people out of poverty and returns $5 for every dollar spent, helping create a stronger America. Peter should still be here, and so should millions of others. America, as well as New Jersey, must lead again before the damage becomes irreversible.

Alexia Zambito Holmdel

Will Lanier Sink Mystic?

I believe that the Lanier Project, consisting of 300+ homes, is a major concern regarding Little Egg Harbor Township and surrounding communities. Many of the newer home -

owners that now reside here are not aware of the damage caused by SuperStorm Sandy.

In the year 2012, when Sandy hit, this township did not receive the media coverage other areas had. People were unaware that some homes had over 10 feet of water in them and that over 4,000 homes were damaged.

Our home is located in the Atlantis section on Country Club Blvd. Our home is not on the water, but backs up to the golf course. Still in all, we had to evacuate our home and go to the township shelter for 3 days due to the flooding. When we came home our home was filled with dirty water (fresh, salt and sewage water). We were shocked to find out that our home was inundated by high tides

and water flow from Willis Creek. We had 4 feet of water and lost everything, as did our neighbors. Me and my neighbors have major concerns that if this Lanier Project goes through, which is where Willis Creek headway starts in this densely forested area, the water would have nowhere to go. It will no longer be absorbed naturally into the ground as it is now. It would force the flow of water to increase, impacting all the communities and developments with risk of flooding. My fear is that if this project goes through and we should have a major storm, some communities like Mystic will end up under water.

S potlight o n g overnment

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

Lawmakers Seek Utility Tax Deduction

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

TRENTON - Three 9th District lawmakers have introduced legislation that would allow New Jersey residents to deduct certain taxes and fees charged on their electric and natural gas bills from their state income taxes.

Sen. Carmen Amato Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre are sponsoring the bills, S-4410 and A-5230, which target the sales tax and societal benefits charge that appear on residential utility bills.

The lawmakers said the proposal is intended to provide direct relief to ratepayers as utility costs continue to rise across New Jersey.

“If Trenton is serious about providing relief to ratepayers facing high utility bills, then tax deductions should be included in any serious policy discussion about this pressing issue,” the legislators said in a joint statement.

They said a tax deduction would be a straightforward way to help residents struggling with higher monthly costs, particularly seniors on fixed incomes and families trying to manage household expenses.

The delegation also criticized the state for collecting more sales tax revenue as utility

bills increase, saying officials must decide whether to keep benefiting from those higher costs or provide direct tax relief to residents.

The legislation would also require electric and natural gas public utility suppliers to itemize the sales tax and societal benefits charge on customers’ periodic utility bills.

Supporters said listing those costs separately would give ratepayers a clearer picture of how much they are paying in taxes and fees in addition to the actual cost of electricity and gas.

Senators: U.S. Infrastructure Should Be Able To Withstand Climate Change

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Representative Kevin Mullin (D-CA) introduced their Federal Flood Risk Management Act, legislation to ensure that federally-funded infrastructure projects are built to withstand the impacts of climate change and flooding. Flooding is the most common natural disaster and, according to the Congressional Budget Office, costs the United States $46 billion on average each year.

“Flood damage already costs New Jersey taxpayers millions each year, and as climate change accelerates and drives more severe flooding, those costs will keep rising unless we invest in resilient infrastructure,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation is a fiscally responsible step that ensures federally

funded projects are built to withstand flooding, protect communities, and strengthen our preparedness for extreme weather, helping us avoid far greater costs from disaster response and rebuilding.”

Understanding the dangerous and costly consequences of flooding, the Obama Administration first set standards in 2015 to make sure that federal projects were able to stand up to heightened flood risks. President Biden later reinstated these standards, which also take into account how climate change is impacting weather and sea levels. President Trump revoked these standards in his first term and again in January 2025. Throughout both Trump Administrations, the Senators repeatedly pushed back against this effort. The Senators are reintroducing the Federal Flood Risk Management Act to codify the standards first set forth by President Obama and ensure that we make resilient federal investments that take into account the impacts of climate change. Doing so will protect our nation’s infrastructure, save

taxpayer dollars, safeguard businesses from flood damage, and keep communities safe.

“From the devastating flooding that hit Western Maryland last year to nuisance flooding that frequently disrupts business and impacts residents’ lives in our coastal communities, flooding presents a clear threat here in Maryland and across the country. As the climate crisis causes increasingly severe storms and flooding with more frequency, it’s past time we take action to harden our infrastructure against these threats. This legislation will both help ensure the federal government is leading the way in that effort and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely on infrastructure that is built to withstand the challenges of climate change,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Extreme weather is becoming more frequent and more severe, and it’s taking a huge toll on our infrastructure. Our bill will help ensure that federally-funded infrastructure is built to be more resilient to the impact of floods and other disasters,” said Senator Schatz.

“Communities in California and across the country are increasingly facing the devas-

tating consequences of stronger floods and extreme weather events,” said Congressman Mullin. “Too many families have seen their homes, businesses, and livelihoods threatened by flooding, only to be left wondering how they will rebuild. The Federal Flood Risk Management Act is a critical step toward making our communities more resilient. By requiring federally-funded projects to account for future flood risks using the best available science, this bill will help protect lives, safeguard taxpayer investments, and reduce the costly damage caused by increasingly severe storms.”

“Flooding is the costliest disaster facing our country, with billions in taxpayer funds spent to rebuild public infrastructure,” said Joel Scata of the Natural Resources Defense Council. “The Federal Flood Risk Management Act ensures federally funded projects, like hospitals, roads, and schools, are built to withstand future floods, protecting people and property. When federal funds are used to build or rebuild, the government has a responsibility to ensure those investments are safe, sustainable, and resilient.”

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.

Jersey Shore Pop-Up Parties Lead GOP To Call For Crackdown

By Briana Vannozzi, Anchor (NJ Spotlight)

JERSEY SHORE - Pop-up parties that have taken over parts of the Jersey Shore in recent summers are leading Republican lawmakers to push for stiffer criminal charges against unruly crowds.

A video posted to social media last month showed hundreds of people gathered at the oceanfront Pier Village in Long Branch, some leaping onto cars and blocking traffic. Law enforcement was visibly outnumbered, several fights broke out and six people were arrested. In response, Sen. Robert Singer

(R-Monmouth) is calling for fellow lawmakers to take action on a bill that would increase penalties for riot and disorderly conduct.

“Seeing this pop-up party in Long Branch,” Singer said. “It’s worrying us that this could be the beginning of a problem for the entire season.”

The gatherings are organized on social media. In recent years, though some towns have banned backpacks and set curfews on boardwalks, the parties have continued — putting a strain, Singer said, on local resources.

“We’re taking a look and reaching out to the State Police, the Attorney General’s Office and New Jersey Transit to say, ‘You’ve got to do better.’”

As the height of summer tourism approaches, Singer stressed the importance of cracking down on these parties to preserve Jersey Shore’s welcoming and family-friendly environment.

“The people who spend money down at the

Jersey Shore are families … they spend the dollars that are very important to our economy,” Singer said. “But more importantly, they have to feel safe.”

This story is made possible in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people. This story was originally published by NJ Spotlight News through the NJ News Commons.

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Agent:

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who had been issued a final order of removal by an immigration judge in January 2026.

Family members publicly disputed that identification, saying Castillo-Ormeno had returned to Peru in March. An anonymous social media post also sought assistance in proving Castillo-Ormeno was not the person involved in the encounter with federal agents.

Sources told Jersey Shore Online that the suspect was taken into custody in southern Ocean County. Other sources familiar with the investigation said the vehicle involved in the incident bore license plates registered to a Barnegat address. A report from New

Jersey 101.5 said he was arrested at a hospital but Jersey Shore Online has not been able to confirm that, nor was it mentioned in the report from the U.S. Attorney General’s Office.

Cruz Garcia made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Justin T. Quinn in Trenton federal court and was ordered detained.

According to federal prosecutors and court documents, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents stopped a white van driven by Cruz Garcia on June 15 as part of an investigation in Manahawkin. A passenger was seated in the front passenger seat, authorities said.

Multiple federal agents wearing vests marked “ICE Police” surrounded the van with their vehicles and approached from both the driver and passenger sides, according to the complaint. The agents tried to speak with Cruz Garcia and the passenger and asked them to open the windows, but they refused, authorities said.

Rather than comply, Cruz Garcia allegedly drove forward while an ICE agent was standing next to the van. Prosecutors said Cruz Garcia struck the agent with the vehicle, causing the officer to become wedged between the van and one of the ICE vehicles.

The officer fell to the ground yelling in pain, authorities said. Cruz Garcia allegedly continued driving, struck another parked ICE vehicle and fled the scene.

Cruz Garcia’s actions injured the officer’s thigh and shin, and the officer required medical attention at a hospital, according

to prosecutors.

“As alleged, the defendant weaponized his vehicle and conducted an egregious assault on a federal law enforcement officer during the course of his official duties,” Frazer said. “The job is hard enough. Law enforcement must be able to carry out their duties without fear of obstruction or even worse, assault. Our office will hold accountable those whom harm officers to ensure they can protect our communities without repercussions.”

“The FBI considers assault on a federal officer a severe and significant violent crime,” FBI Newark Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy said. “We will continue to work with our valued law enforcement partners to ensure that incidents such as these are treated with the gravity they deserve, so that men and women of federal law enforcement can continue to serve, safely returning home unharmed.”

ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations

Newark acting Field Office Director Arthur J. Wilson Jr. said the case should serve as a warning.

“Let these charges against Cruz Garcia be a staunch reminder that assaulting and obstructing ICE law enforcement, as alleged here, is a serious crime and a felony,” Wilson said. “Violence against our federal law enforcement officers as ICE carries out our daily mission in accordance with U.S. immigration law will not be tolerated. I want to thank our federal partners for their critical assistance in locating the defendant and ensuring that justice is sought.”

The charge of assaulting a federal officer while the officer was engaged in official

duties and inflicting bodily injury carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.

Frazer credited special agents with the FBI Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, with the investigation leading to the charge. He also thanked special agents with the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark Field Office, under the direction of acting Field Office Director Arthur J. Wilson Jr., for their assistance.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Suggs of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.

In the hours following the incident, some social media users criticized the Stafford Township Police Department for what they perceived as a lack of cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Stafford police were not involved in the initial attempt to apprehend the suspect as they follow New Jersey’s strict Immigrant Trust Directive, which limits local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Afterward, Stafford officers assisted in securing the scene alongside members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office. Residents also reported seeing Stafford police officers participating in search efforts in the surrounding area as law enforcement agencies worked to locate the fleeing suspect.

C ommunity n ew S

Police Departments Carry Flame Of Hope Through Stafford

MANAHAWKIN – Officers from the Stafford Township Police Department joined fellow law enforcement agencies from Long Beach Township, Beach Haven and Barnegat in the 43rd Annual New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. More than 3,000 law enforcement officers participated in the statewide event, running along 26 routes that covered nearly 750 miles while carrying the “Flame of Hope” to The College of New Jersey in Ewing. The torch will be used to light the cauldron and officially open the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games.

Stafford officers completed a 7.5-mile stretch that began at 68th Street in Long

Beach Township. The group carried the torch across the Route 72 Causeway Bridge and into Stafford Township alongside their neighboring departments.

The annual Torch Run is one of the largest public awareness and fundraising events supporting Special Olympics New Jersey. The event highlights inclusion, teamwork and community support for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Police officials said they were honored to take part in the longstanding tradition and thanked the officers, participating agencies and community supporters who helped keep the Flame of Hope moving toward its destination.

Folk Singer To Perform For Kids

WARETOWN – Children and families can enjoy a morning of music and history when folk singer Jessica Carroll performs at the Waretown Branch of the Ocean County Library.

“Jessica Carroll Sings Americana for Kids” will be held at 10:30 a.m. June 30 at the library, 112 Main Street. The program will feature patriotic hymns and Americana folk songs designed to get children singing and moving along. Carroll also will share background stories

about the songs and their origins, giving young listeners a chance to learn while they enjoy the performance.

The free program is sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization marking 25 years of supporting enhanced services and opportunities for Ocean County Library users. Registration is required. Space is limited. To register, visit tinyurl.com/JessicaWaretown , call 609-693-5133 or stop by the branch.

Sandy Sprint 5K Returns To Sea Isle City

SEA ISLE CITY – Participants will turn the shore teal this summer during the 10th annual Sandy Sprint Sea Isle City 5K & Family Walk, a fundraiser supporting the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation.

The event will be held July 18 from 7:15 to 10 a.m. at 2 41st Street in Sea Isle City. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to take part in a morning focused on honoring survivors, supporting families affected

by ovarian cancer and raising money for research and awareness.

Organizers said the event brings the community together while helping fund the foundation’s mission to fight ovarian cancer through education, advocacy and support.

Registration is $30 to $40. More information is available at sandyovarian.org/ programs-and-events/events/sandy-sprintsea-isle-city. Participants can register at secure.qgiv.com/event/sandysprintsic2026.

Local Animals Ready For Adoption

STAFFORD – Judah is an adorable batch of fun! He’s a four year old American English coonhound.

Judah may be a little timid around new people at first, but he warms up with some time and is very sweet. He would do best with a family that has experience with his breed and needs a home without children.

Once he settles into his forever home,

he’ll bond quickly with his new family. If you’re looking for a sweet boy with lots of love to give, Judah is your guy! 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.

Elks Lodge Welcomes 48 New Members

FORKED RIVER – Lacey Elks Lodge #2518 welcomed 48 new members during an initiation ceremony marking another period of growth for one of New Jersey’s largest and most active Elks lodges.

Exalted Ruler Michael Day led the ceremony, joined by Past State President Richard Bard, lodge officers, committee chairpersons and members who gathered to recognize the new class. Lodge officials credited the Membership Committee for helping bring in residents interested in service, charitable work and lodge activities.

After the ceremony, the new members met fellow Elks and learned more about the lodge’s programs, including communi-

ty service projects, social events, veterans support, youth programs and charitable initiatives. With the latest group, Lodge #2518 now has more than 3,300 members.

“We are excited to welcome these new members into our Elks family,” Day said. “Their enthusiasm, talents, and commitment to community service will help strengthen our Lodge and continue our tradition of making a positive impact throughout the community.”

The lodge said it remains committed to the Elks’ principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity while supporting local causes throughout the region.

C ommunity n ew S

Elks Treat Students To Farm Adventure

FORKED RIVER – Students from Lacey High School’s special needs classes were treated to a day of animals, yoga and hands-on learning during a recent trip sponsored by the Lacey Elks Lodge #2518 Special Children’s Committee. The outing brought students to Out of Sight Alpaca Farm, where they took part in a goat yoga session before touring the farm and learning about alpacas and other animals. Students also had the chance to feed and pet the animals during the visit.

Organizers said the trip was designed to

offer a mix of recreation, education and animal interaction while creating a fun, inclusive experience for the students.

A committee representative said the group’s mission is centered on creating happy memories for children with special needs. “Seeing the excitement and joy these children experience is what it’s all about,” the representative said.

The Lacey Elks Lodge #2518 said it remains committed to supporting children, families, veterans and the surrounding community through charitable programs and volunteer service.

Author To Discuss Colonial Taverns

FORKED RIVER – Author Michael C. Gabriele will discuss his newest book, “Colonial Taverns of New Jersey,” during a free program at 2 p.m. June 29 at the Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library. The event is part of local programming tied to America’s 250th anniversary. Gabriele’s book explores the role taverns played during the Revolutionary era, when New Jersey became known as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution.”

Colonial taverns served as gathering places for patriots, loyalists, travelers and militia members. They were centers of political discussion, entertainment and community life, and were sometimes used by George Washington as temporary headquarters

AGES 7 & UP

during the war.

Gabriele, a lifelong New Jersey resident and 1975 graduate of Montclair State University, has worked as a journalist, freelance writer and author for more than four decades.

“Colonial Taverns of New Jersey” is his fifth book on New Jersey history published by Arcadia Publishing/The History Press. Books by the author will be available for purchase, and a question-and-answer session and book signing will follow the talk. Registration is required and opens June 15. To register, visit tinyurl.com/TavernsLacey, call 609-693-8566 or stop by the branch at 10 East Lacey Road. The program is sponsored by an Ocean County Library Foundation grant.

In the June 13 article “Recital Brings Many Church Organists Under One Roof,” the name of the musician at Central Regional High School was incorrect. The correct name was Michael Snowhill. We regret the error.

Students Honored In County Poster Contest

TOMS RIVER – Four fourth-grade students from schools across Ocean County were recognized by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and the Ocean County Clerk’s Office for creating winning entries in the annual “My County Poster Contest.”

The contest invited students to design posters showcasing landmarks, themes and images that capture the spirit and identity of Ocean County. Winners were determined based on the number of “likes” their artwork

received on Facebook.

Ocean County Deputy Clerk John Catalano and Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione joined together to congratulate the students and their families during the recognition ceremony.

Officials said the contest continues to encourage young residents to celebrate their communities while highlighting the places and qualities that make Ocean County unique.

Police Seek Cop Card Sponsors

LACEY – The Lacey Township Police Department is looking for sponsors for the 2026-27 Cop Card Program, marking the ninth edition of the community campaign.

The program, which began in 2000, is designed to help students, children, parents, residents and business owners become more familiar with local police officers and staff. Officers and sponsors will be featured on baseball-style trading cards that will be distributed at participating sponsor locations throughout Lacey.

Participants will collect the cards as part of the townwide program. Lacey students who com-

plete the full set will be eligible to win prizes. Sponsorships cost $325 and include the business name and logo on an officer’s individual card. Businesses may also serve as pickup locations for card collectors. Lacey businesses will receive priority because organizers want to keep the program accessible to local families, while businesses outside of Lacey will be placed on a waiting list in the order applications are received.

Sponsorship opportunities are limited. For more information, contact Detective Michael Hutman at 609-693-6636, ext. 2527, or email Patrolman Tyler Walsh at info@laceypd.org.

Author To Host Book Signing At Lacey Library

FORKED RIVER – Children’s book author and illustrator Katy Tanis will appear at the Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library for an art reception, author talk and book signing from 6 to 8 p.m. June 29. The free, all-ages program will also include a coloring craft for younger readers. Tanis’ exhibit, “Love Under the Sea,” is on display at the branch and features artwork from her new book of the same name.

Tanis, who grew up in northern New Jersey and now lives at the Jersey Shore, has a background in biology, computer science and art. Her work often highlights unusual animals while exploring evolution, biogeography and

ecosystems from around the world. Her career began in the fashion industry, where she traveled internationally to learn about artisan techniques including woodblock printing, ceramics, graffiti and embroidery. Her award-winning artwork has appeared on products and in exhibitions worldwide. More information is available at daughterearth.com.

Several books written and illustrated by Tanis are available to Ocean County Library cardholders. Registration is required. To register, visit tinyurl.com/TanisOCL, call 609-693-8566 or stop by the branch at 10 East Lacey Road.

Spotlight On Business

What “Good Legal Counsel” Really Means: Practical Guidance Clients Can Rely On

When clients seek legal representation, they are often navigating uncertainty, critical decisions, or situations they have never encountered before. In those moments, good legal counsel means more than simply understanding the law, it means providing practical guidance clients can trust. At Dasti & Staiger, our attorneys believe effective legal representation is rooted in communication, strategy, and helping clients confidently navigate complex situations.

“Trusted legal counsel means translating complex legal frameworks into practical guidance that clients can confidently act upon” Attorney Brandon DeJesus states.

Strong legal counsel also requires honesty, responsiveness, and the ability to help clients understand difficult realities. Clients rely on their attorneys not only for legal knowledge, but for guidance that helps them make informed decisions with confidence. “Good legal counsel means providing responsive, cost-effective legal guidance,” says Christopher Dasti, Managing Partner of Dasti & Staiger. “Sometimes that legal guidance is providing counsel and information to your client that they do not want to hear. Our job as lawyers is to counsel our clients in order to deal with the realities that anger a situation.”

Effective counsel must also be practical and forward-thinking. Legal advice should not only address the issue at hand but help clients anticipate risks and understand how

decisions made today may impact them long term. “To me, reliable legal counsel means providing advice that is not only legally sound but operationally feasible,” says Brigit Zahler, Attorney at Dasti & Staiger. “It requires understanding both the theory the advice promotes as well as any potential hurdles to implementation.”

At Dasti & Staiger, attorneys work closely with clients to ensure they feel informed, prepared, and supported throughout every stage of the legal process. Whether representing individuals, businesses, or public entities, the firm’s focus remains the same: delivering practical, reliable counsel tailored to each client’s unique needs. Because ultimately, strong legal representation is not just about solving problems, it is about helping clients move forward with clarity and confidence.

About Dasti & Staiger

Dasti & Staiger is a New Jersey-based law firm providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and businesses across a wide range of practice areas. With offices serving Ocean and Monmouth Counties and beyond, the firm is known for its client focused approach, combining experienced legal counsel with practical, results-driven strategies. Dasti & Staiger is committed to clear communication, personalized attention, and guiding clients through complex legal matters with integrity and professionalism. To learn more, visit https://www.dastilaw.com.

Stafford Historical Society To Host Concert

MANAHAWKIN – The Stafford Historical Society will present a “250 Years of American Music & Culture Concert” on June 24 at the Historic Old Baptist Church. The free concert will feature the Navesink Brass and is part of the community’s cel-

ebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

The event will be held at 120 N. Main Street in Manahawkin. Admission is free, and donations will be accepted. For more info, visit staffordhistory.org.

Scams:

Continued From Page 1

may attempt to pressure you by threatening your safety, but Armstrong said your instinct should be to hang up instead of comply.

“Time is on your side, don’t think you have to engage with them right away,” he explained. “Don’t give your money away to anybody, consult your family members or [Barnegat Police] before giving anything away.”

For those who fall victim to these scams, Armstrong said the most difficult part can be getting your money back. It is becoming harder to track down scammers with cryptocurrency systems that rely on virtual transactions, which are irreversible.

“Then they can’t pay their rent, they can’t

pay bills, and they’re fighting with the bank to get reimbursed,” he said. “So it’s putting people in a difficult position.”

Armstrong explained that the most crucial move you can make to protect your money is not picking up the phone. If you receive repeated calls or text messages from a suspicious number, you can block and report the number.

“Any call that comes up with a phone number that you don’t recognize, don’t answer it,” he said. “Same thing with text messages. Don’t respond to any texts, no matter what the threat is.”

Barnegat Police performs presentations on robocall scams and what you can do to protect yourself and your money. For more information, you can visit the Barnegat Police Department’s Facebook page.

Presented By:

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

F.A.A.A.

Early Hearing Treatment May Reduce Dementia Risk

Science has found growing evidence that treating hearing loss may do more than improve communication. It could also help protect brain health. A study published in JAMA Neurology in 2025 adds to the increasing evidence, showing that using hearing aids earlier in life may help lower dementia risk in some groups.

The investigation, “Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia,” drew on data from almost 3,000 U.S. adults ages 60 and older who were part of the long-running Framingham Heart Study. Participants without dementia were followed up to 20 years to track whether hearing aid use affected their chances of developing the condition.

What researchers found: Adults 60–69 who reported wearing hearing aids were about 61% less likely to develop dementia than those with unaddressed hearing loss. Though the same potential benefit wasn’t found among those 70+ with an identified hearing loss, other research has already linked hearing aid use to lower dementia risk among older adults.

Timing might play a key role. Tackling hearing loss earlier — before significant cognitive changes begin — may help keep the brain active and connected.

Hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal and increased mental strain as the brain works harder to process

unclear sound. Over time, the extra effort may contribute to changes in brain structure and function. By improving sound clarity and communication, hearing aids may help reduce this burden and support long-term brain health.

The study’s findings build on past breakthroughs tying hearing care to cognitive wellness. In 2023, for example, the ACHIEVE study announced findings linking professionally fitted hearing aids and audiologic counseling to a slower rate of cognitive decline in older adults at higher risk over three years. These outcomes demonstrate hearing care’s importance in aging healthily and empowered.

Help protect your hearing and brain health. Call Dr. Izzy & Staff to set up an appointment for a complete hearing evaluation, 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com. We Hear You & We are Here for You!

Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia (JAMA Neurology/JAMA Network, https:// jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2837714, Accessed 10/21/25). New Study Finds 61% Reduced Dementia Risk Among Hearing Aid Users Under 70 (Hearing Health & Technology Matters, https:// hearinghealthmatters. org/hearingnews-watch/2025/dementia-risk-hearing-aids/, Accessed 10/21/25).

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!

Dear Pharmacist

The Placebo Effect Is Real

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

When someone says, “You’re just having a placebo effect,” they usually mean it as a put-down. But maybe it isn’t.

As a pharmacist, I’ve spent decades studying medications and helping people use them safely.

I believe in modern medicine. Some drugs are absolutely life-saving. But one of the most fascinating things I’ve learned is that the human brain can influence healing in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

The placebo effect occurs when you experience a real improvement after receiving an inactive treatment, such as a sugar pill. What’s remarkable is that the improvement isn’t imaginary. Researchers have shown that placebo responses can trigger measurable changes in your brain, including the release of dopamine and endorphins! Those are feel-good chemicals involved in pleasure, motivation, and pain relief.

Yeah, your brain has its own pharmacy.

One of the most famous placebo studies involved patients with severe knee arthritis. Some underwent actual arthroscopic surgery, while others received “sham” surgery that looked real complete with incision, but didn’t include anything therapeutic. Surprisingly, a lot of patients in the sham group improved just as much as those who got the real operation!

Then there are studies involving Parkinson’s disease. Scientists now see that placebo treatments can trigger measurable dopamine release in the brain. The expectation of improvement changed brain chemistry as much as a pill.

Your entire healthcare experience matters. A doctor’s office. Measurements of your heart rate or blood pressure. His or her confidence in your treatment, and a reassuring conversa-

tion… the ritual of taking a pill all influence the outcome.

There’s also a darker side called the nocebo effect.

If positive expectations can help people feel better, negative expectations can sometimes make them feel worse.

I saw this all the time at the pharmacy. Someone would read the package insert like it was forbidden government intel. Or we’d casually say, “Take this with food to minimize nausea,” and it more than likely trigger nausea. Every now and then we’d get a call by someone convinced they were experiencing one of those horrible side effects rattled off at warp speed during a TV drug ad. I’m kidding... mostly.

Side effects are absolutely real. But anxiety and expectation influence the nervous system far more than most people realize. Please don’t read this column and toss your prescriptions into the trash. Many meds are essential, and some require careful tapering if they’re discontinued.

But do learn to ask questions. How well did the drug perform compared to placebo? Are there lifestyle approaches that might help? Has sleep, stress, loneliness, or chronic inflammation been properly addressed? Is your nervous system stuck in a constant state of sympathetic fight-or-flight?

Your body isn’t necessarily broken. Sometimes it’s overwhelmed. The placebo effect reminds me that healing is about more than metabolic pathways and genes. It’s also about expectation, hope, connection, and the powerful conversation between your mind, body and spirit.

If you enjoy learning about the fascinating intersection of medicine, nutrition, and natural health, you’ll find hundreds of articles and resources at suzycohen.com.

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

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Graduation Parties and Social Host Liability: What New Jersey Parents Need to Know

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

Graduation season is a time for celebration. Families across Ocean County will soon be hosting parties to honor their high school and college graduates. While these gatherings create lasting memories, they also come with important legal responsibilities that every parent should understand.

Under New Jersey law, adults who provide alcohol to individuals under the legal drinking age may face serious consequences if someone is injured as a result. In certain circumstances, a homeowner or host can also be held financially responsible if an intoxicated guest causes injuries to another person.

This concept is known as social host liability

For example, if a parent knowingly allows underage drinking at a graduation party and an intoxicated teenager later causes a motor vehicle accident, the injured parties may pursue claims not only against the driver but also against the adults who provided or permitted access to the alcohol.

Even when guests are over the age of 21, hosts should take reasonable steps to

promote safety. Encouraging designated drivers, arranging rides through family members or rideshare services, and monitoring alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of tragedy.

The purpose of New Jersey’s social host laws is not to discourage celebrations. Rather, these laws recognize that those who furnish alcohol may have a role in preventing foreseeable harm.

As graduation season approaches, parents should have open conversations with their children about alcohol use and establish clear expectations for parties held in their homes. A few precautions can make a significant difference in protecting both guests and the broader community.

Graduation should mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter—not the aftermath of a preventable accident.

Michael J. Deem, Esq. is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney and is employed by R.C. Shea & Associates, P.C., in Toms River. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call (732) 505-1212 to discuss your legal rights.

HGTV Show Seeks Shore Homes For $150K Makeover

JERSEY SHORE – Homeowners living near the beach with unusual, outdated or hard-to-explain houses could have a shot at a major renovation through the HGTV series “Ugliest House in America.”

Casting is now open for homes near the water that stand out for all the wrong reasons. Producers are looking for properties with mismatched designs, awkward floor plans, odd additions or décor choices that leave visitors scratching their heads.

The casting call says the show is not searching for minor repair projects. Instead, producers want homes that are especially strange, dramatic or visually overwhelming.

One selected homeowner will receive a $150,000 renovation intended to turn the property into a more stylish and practical living space.

Homeowners can apply at ugliesthouseinamerica.castingcrane.com.

Bumpers On The Beat Car Show Returns

WARETOWN – Ocean Township PBA

Local 371 will host its third annual “Bumpers on the Beat” car show on November 8 at Frederick A. Priff Elementary School, 139 Wells Mills Road.

The event will feature cars, motorcycles, trucks, food trucks, vendors, music, giveaways and police and emergency vehicle displays. It is open to vehicles of all years, makes and models.

Registration will take place from 9 to 11 a.m., with the show running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration will be held the day of the event only and costs $20 per vehicle. Awards and trophies will be presented, and the event is designed to be family friendly. Proceeds will support fundraising efforts for Ocean Township PBA Local 371.

The rain date is November 29.

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concerns regarding long-term disposal of spent

Plans Are Conceptual

For now, Holtec’s Oyster Creek plans remain conceptual and would require extensive federal review, licensing and

Housing:

Continued From Page 4 caregiver for her adult son, Justin, who lives with cerebral palsy and other medical conditions.

Novotny-Hill said her family’s rent has increased approximately 25 percent since moving to Summit West three years ago while medical expenses continue to rise.

financing before construction could begin. The company has not announced a timeline for any Oyster Creek application and says discussions about potential customers for the power remain preliminary.

When asked if there was a chance that a data center might be co-located on the site, O’Brien said there had been no discussions concerning the possibility.

Holtec officials believe Oyster Creek could

One medication alone, she said, would cost approximately $1,000 even after insurance.

“We should all be able to feel safe and comfortable within our homes and not have to worry about being priced out,”

Novotny-Hill said.

For families balancing caregiving responsibilities, medical costs and housing expenses, rent becomes only one part of

RZ Contracting

play a significant role in the next generation of American nuclear energy. “As a New Jersey company, we would love to build in New Jersey and get those deployed here,” O’Brien said.

Environmental groups have historically opposed expansion of nuclear power, citing concerns about radioactive waste, costs and long-term storage issues. Supporters counter that nuclear energy provides reli-

a much larger financial equation.

More Than A Housing Story

Residents say discussions about Summit West often focus on rent increases. What receives less attention is what happens afterward.

A higher housing payment may mean returning to work after retirement. It may mean postponing medical care. It may

able carbon-free electricity and can operate regardless of weather conditions.

Any future Oyster Creek reactor project would require federal licensing, financing and environmental review before construction could begin. While Holtec’s plans remain conceptual, the company has now publicly identified the former nuclear plant as a preferred location for future small modular reactor development.

mean delaying the purchase of a vehicle, relying on food assistance programs or abandoning plans for retirement altogether.

For many Summit West residents, the challenge is no longer simply paying rent. It is preserving the quality of life they expected after decades of work while navigating an economy that increasingly demands more from people living on fixed or limited incomes.

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

~Selling??- Best service for less than 1% ~Don't get RIPPED OFF!!!

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Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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in the main sections of

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Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time cook If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliatr.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (30)

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DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE? Call Lenny, Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (31)

Car Service - Tuckerton-LBI-Bayville. Airports, cruise ports, casinos. Local or long distance. Text or call Keith 609-351-2462. (19)

HELP WANTED - Sheet Metal

Installers wanted for commercial HVAC company located in Jackson. Mechanics should have a minimum of 5 years field experience. We are also looking for apprentices who we will train for those looking to learn the trade. No experience required. $18.00 to start. Benefits include paid health insurance, 401k contribution, paid holidays and more. Send resume to bsellinger@mammothmechanical. com or call 732-833-7223. (31)

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)

Lightning Strike Electric - You can rely on us to get the work done! Service/panel upgrades switches, outlets, dimmers, spot lights, fans & more! Call Dmitriy 856631-7519. lightningstrikeelectric. com. Lic #34EI00941600. (t/n)

Housecleaning - Laundry, window, carpet, office cleaning, food shopping, painting, driving. Call 732330-4189 or 848-287-3944. (1)

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)

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Pigeon-__

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Thinking or talking your way through a financial situation or series of decisions could be just right today, both your heart and your mind should be engaged, and Universal day scores are positive today and through next week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Money is likely on your mind, though the vibe is less toward processing ideas and having conversations than for Aries, above. For you, today could be about making tangible moves that can sweeten your financial future.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): With today’s Sun and Moon hanging out with asteroid Midas, most signs have some kind of financial focus now. Yours relates to how you identify with money and wealth, the degree to which you feel your financial status identifies you.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): For you, Cancer, today’s money process is taking stock of your beliefs around abundance and scarcity. Inner beliefs drive outer realities. What are you holding from your past that’s limiting your future?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Finances and friendships are the mix for you today. Do you do business with friends? How should boundaries work in dual relationships? One obvious thing is to always vet opportunities thoroughly regardless of where they originate.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Career/workplace is likely your focus today — how you put your energies into the world, how the world compensates you for your contributions. More money could be coming through your pipeline.

FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 20 - 26 BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Teach and learn not just about money, but what it represents energetically. Money is fundamentally a means of exchange, but because of its relationship to power, it can corrupt also and morph into endless greed for more.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Money can become more complex when resources are shared. Everyone has different thresholds for safety, risk, wealth, scarcity, then egos get involved. Even if everyone is fully in integrity, it can get very complicated.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A business or financial partner should be working harmoniously with you now, interests appear to be well-aligned. When both people share the same objectives and working style, synergy can multiply results.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The costs of daily routines could come up to be examined — how much did that latte cost? It’s not necessarily due to lack, it may just be time for a review. Consider your health hacks too.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You might find a way to monetize something you’d do for free just for the joy of it. When work is also play, it’s not so heavy. When work is a personal joy, it’s not so boring. See if you can connect these dots.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Building a safety net has become nearly impossible for most today, but your foundation can rest on something more powerful than a bank account. Rest your security on the richest, most creative resource of all, the Universe.

THIS BRIGHT SOUP TASTES LIKE PURE SUMMERTIME

Diane Rossen Worthington

Chilled soups are light, flavorful, refreshing and Seriously Simple to prepare. They can be made well in advance to allow them to chill properly. This means that you can prepare your soup early in the day (when it’s cooler in the kitchen) or even the day before, a real boon to the summer cook. And best of all, these soups cool us off when the temperatures are crazy hot. This bright soup tastes like pure summertime with its fresh just-picked corn, golden yellow sweet peppers, and yellow cherry tomatoes. Yellow tomatoes are sweeter and less acidic than their red cousins. If you can’t find yellow tomatoes, use the red variety and sweet red peppers for an equally delicious variation.

I like to garnish a soup with an interesting topping. Feel free to decorate as you wish. Try corn kernels or chopped tomatoes on top. Some chopped green basil leaves on top add a pretty contrast. Remember to adjust the seasonings of the soup once it has been chilled. Cold soups usually need more seasoning since the chilling process reduces the flavor.

Serves 6 to 8

2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 medium ears)

1-pint yellow cherry tomatoes or 1 large yellow tomato, stemmed and coarsely chopped

1 sweet yellow pepper, seeded and diced into 1/2-inch pieces

3 tablespoons olive oil

6 scallions, white and light green part only, finely chopped

6 cups chicken or vegetable stock

6 basil leaves

1/4 cup whipping or heavy cream

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon hot pepper oil

To garnish: 1/2 cup sour cream

Extra basil leaves, finely chopped; add just before serving to avoid darkening

1. Reserve 1/4 cup corn, 2 tablespoons diced yellow pepper and 1/4 cup tomatoes. Immerse the reserved corn and yellow pepper in a saucepan of boiling water for about2 minutes. Drain, chill, and reserve with the tomatoes.

2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add scallions and saute until slightly soft, about 3 minutes. Add the remaining tomatoes, yellow peppers, and corn to the pan and saute for about 3 minutes. Add chicken stock and basil; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer slowly, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. Remove the basil leaves.

3. Puree the soup in the pan with a hand blender or in batches in a blender or food processor fitted with a steel blade. Transfer to a bowl. (For a smooth consistency if desired, pass through a food mill or strainer into a bowl, pushing down to get all the essence.) Add the cream, seasonings, and hot pepper oil. Taste for seasoning. Chill for at least three hours.

4. To serve: Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with sour cream, tomatoes, yellow pepper, corn, and chopped basil.