2026-08-01 - The Manchester Times

MANCHESTER

‘Women Build’ Project Gives Homeowner Windows Of Opportunity

By Chris Lundy and Colleen Sheehan MANCHESTER –

The Pine Ridge Mobile Home Park was buzzing with activity one recent summer morning, as women wearing bright pink shirts replaced windows in a house.

Local Woman’s $65K Loss Highlights

Growing Scam Threat

By Stephanie Faughnan

OCEAN

COUNTY

- A Berkeley Township woman had already lost $25,000 after allowing someone posing as a Microsoft representative to access her computer.

Three days later, the scammers called again.

This time, the caller claimed to

This was part of Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program, where teams of volunteers from local businesses work together to help someone in need. This particular build was bolstered with nine people from Ferguson Home.

Lindsay Unger, showroom manager for the Ferguson Home in Lakewood, said they have been involved with Habitat for Humanity for over a decade, participating in various projects like Women Build and Veterans (Project - See Page 4)

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– Members of the Township Council commented on the township’s future development and the need for appropriate commercial growth during a recent council meeting.

Council Vice President James Vaccaro reminded the audience once again that “Manchester Township is referred to as the gemstone of the Jersey shore and the gateway to the Jersey shore.”

Vaccari noted a commercial development “renaissance taking shape in Manchester Township. We need to review and reshape commerce for the future of the township. We are currently embarking on a traffic survey and we need to address our 10-year plan in Manchester for renewable energy resources such as solar energy. Lastly, we need to address our infrastructure needs.”

He stressed that the governing body needed to “act as a catalyst for the growth of new businesses in the community. By doing such we can transfer a portion of the tax burden from our residents to our commercial stakeholders thus making Manchester more affordable for all residents.”

He explained that the goal is to grow commerce in select areas, while keeping Manchester’s rural environment.

Vaccari called for the council to develop an ordinance that would make it easier for new

(Municipality - See Page 4)

“Urgent” News: School Chorus Takes Stage With Foreigner

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER – Township

be with Homeland Security and offered to help recover her money. She was instructed to withdraw $40,000 in cash, place it in a black box and meet an “agent” in the parking lot of Luigi’s Deli in South Toms River.

Middle School Chorus members went “A Long, Long Way From Home” for an incredible experience they will never forget. The MTMS Chorus entered and won the 105.7 The Hawk’s “Sing With Foreigner” contest and was chosen to perform on July 26 live

on stage with the legendary rock band Foreigner at the PNC Bank Arts Center.

As an added bonus, Foreigner donated $500 to the Manchester Township Middle School Chorus program, helping support future opportunities for student musicians.

The event may not have really taken the students that far away

but it was quite memorable according to Chorus Director Katie Sherman who remarked, “this experience has been truly unforgettable, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who made it possible. Thank you to the parents for supporting their children in the arts, to Greg Lassik for

She followed the instructions (Scam Threat - See Page 7) (Chorus - See Page 5)

Starting

Municipality:

Continued From Page 1

businesses to come into the community by possibly waiving or reducing certain permit fees. He also reminded residents to shop within the town to support existing local businesses.

The official once again brought up the need for the presence of a healthcare village within the municipality and closed by calling for residents to express one act of kindness a day to put a smile on someone’s face and to make their day brighter.

tractive to film producers and providing information to potential locations within the township that might be sought for such productions.

Noonan is also working with New Jersey Transit concerning getting mass transit available within the township. As for current stops within the township, “we don’t have any.” She said a study the Ocean County Office on Senior Services had been looking into the needs of seniors and one of the top issues was transportation.

management.’” She explained that over the last year, the township received a lot of complaints, especially in the winter, with residents dealing with management companies.

from yourself.”

Project:

Continued From Page 1

Councilwoman Judy Noonan reported on a meeting she had with an official concerning having the township be a potential site for consideration for film/ TV show/streaming service productions. Many productions have been filmed in the Garden State. The township has taken part in a program that required an online course to be taken that would guide the municipality in making itself more atBuild.

“We are replacing windows for this lovely lady,” Unger said. Besides the fact that they were leaking, old windows mean that it costs more to heat and cool a home. “This will definitely help her with her energy bills.”

Veronica “Ronnie” Girard said that

“We need regular bus service. I think it is very important so I am working on that issue. Not everyone has a car.”

She also recommended the township adopt an idea from nearby Jackson Township concerning a property management license. “A lot of homeowner associations and regular apartment condominiums have management companies and nobody monitors these management companies. Jackson passed an ordinance that has a lot of definitions in there such as ‘business

she moved here from Debtford in 2020. The home has the original 1973 windows.

“It is so exciting, I’m thrilled,” she said, laughing. “Everybody is so sweet and they put up with me talking.”

Habitat has come to help her with multiple projects in the past, replacing aging floors. With Habitat, she doesn’t have to worry about having contractors come in and give estimates, or wonder

“The town doesn’t really have any power to tell any management company or HOA anything but some of these companies need to be looked at and the township needs to have some legal authority. Their ordinance oversees commercial real estate property and anybody who is taking in money for managing over anything. You need a real estate license. I’d really like the council to look at it,” Noonan requested.

During this week’s council meeting the council passed Ordinance 26-35 providing for a special emergency appropriation of $395,000 providing for the preparation of a master plan. Business Administrator Carl Block explained the expenditure would be spread out over a five-year period. “Technically you are borrowing

if the work will be done right.

“You don’t know who to trust,” she said, noting there are some contractors who take advantage of seniors.

Kristine Novakowski, chief executive officer of the Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, said they do a lot of home modification for aging in place. For example, they could convert a bathtub into a walk-in shower. “Ferguson donates that to us which helps us help

Karen Argenti, a former active member of the township’s Environmental Commission asked if there would be public meetings concerning the passage of the new master plan which Block responded, “they are statutorily required. There has to be some at the Planning Board and some here. The passing of the Master Plan requires both the Planning Board and the governing body and requires public input.”

Block noted that a traffic safety study is being done first “and there will be meetings to address that as it moves forward.” Other factors include the review of the affordable housing plan and environmental updates. “There will be an opportunity for public input at each phase.”

Other ordinances that were heard include 26-37 which involves amending salary ranges and positions of non- bargaining unit employees and Ordinance 26-34 concerning fences, walls, screening, hedges, trees and sight triangles.

more people.”

The Critical Home Repair program helps people who meet financial requirements to remain in their homes. Given the large percentage of seniors on fixed income in Ocean County, this program is crucial.

This year, there were 11 Women Build projects, up from last year’s seven, she said. This speaks to the willingness of people to help.

Chorus:

Continued From Page 1

creating our incredible submission video, to the team at 105.7 the Hawk for choosing our video, to the entire Manchester community and our school administration for making every logistical detail come together.”

She went to thank the students themselves “for being so hard working and dedicated, and to the amazing team at Foreigner for welcoming our choir and making our students feel like true rock stars. We will forever cherish this experience and hope to use the generously donated money to create more performance opportunities for our students in the years to come.”

Foreigner is a British–American rock band formed in New York City in 1976. The band’s debut album, “Foreigner,” was released in March 1977 and achieved significant commercial success and was certified for sales of five million copies in the United States, remaining in the top 20 for a year and peaking at number 4.

The students joined the famous band during its performance of the iconic hit “I Want to Know What Love Is,” a signature song known for its powerful choir accompaniment.

Chorus member Lilyann C noted “I absolutely loved it. The energy from the crowd was exhilarating; the size, that was excitingly terrifying.”

“It was the best and coolest thing ever. I can’t believe me and my friends got to sing on stage with real life rock stars! It was so much fun and I’ll never forget it,” fellow member Gavin L. said.

Another chorus member remarked, “It was a wonderful experience, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I was very happy, I am very thankful and I will remember it forever.”

“It really was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to sing with Foreigner and see them right in front of me! I am so grateful for this incredible opportunity, and I’m sure I’ll remember it for the rest of my life,” Chorus member Hanna G said.

The achievement made local officials proud.

“Our MTMS chorus students represented Manchester Township with pride during this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Watching them take the stage alongside a legendary band with poise and confidence was an unforgettable moment for our students, their families, and our entire community,” Superintendent Diane Pedroza said.

“This remarkable achievement reflects not only the dedication of our students, but also the exceptional guidance of our middle school chorus director, Katie Sherman. Mrs. Sherman has spent countless hours preparing, encouraging, and believing in these young musicians, helping them grow both as performers and

from the

stage at the PNC Bank

with the

They had won a “Sing with Foreigner” contest months ago and now they got the experience of a lifetime.

as individuals,” she added. Pedroza noted that because of Sherman’s commitment “and the hard work of our students, they were able to experience something they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. We could not be

prouder of all they accomplished!”

The event was noted at this week’s Township Council meeting with Council President Michele Zolezi stating, “That was absolutely wonderful that they got to do that.”

Scam Threat:

Continued From Page 1 and handed over the money. When the same person returned seeking another $19,000, Berkeley Township detectives and an investigator from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office were waiting. They arrested a man whom Mastronardy described as a Chinese national living in Mexico.

“He was putting money in a fund,” said Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. “It was going to a Chinese gang.”

Mastronardy shared the case as consumer protection officials from across New Jersey compared the frauds and questionable business practices they’ve encountered. Their accounts showed how quickly scams are evolving and why recovering money is often far more difficult than preventing losses.

“This is happening every day as we’re speaking here,” Mastronardy said. “There are people being victimized in our county, in our state.”

The discussion took place at the Toms River Yacht Club, where representatives from nine counties and state officials gathered for the annual summer meeting of the County and Municipal Consumer Agencies. Other attendees included Ocean County Commissioner Director Frank Sadeghi, Commissioner Samuel Ellenbogen and Seaside Heights Police Chief Thomas Boyd.

Ocean County Consumer Affairs Director Ronald Heinzman, who was recently re-elected president of the statewide association, hosted the meeting. New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport, Senior Counsel Erin Whitty and State Division of Consumer Affairs Acting Director Jeremy Hollander were among those taking notes as county representatives described recurring problems involving impersonation scams, used-car sales, home improvement contractors, gift cards and illegal flavored vaping products.

The shared concern was not simply that scams continue. It was that perpetrators constantly change their tactics, often combining technology, official-looking documents and psychological pressure to overcome warnings from banks, police and family members.

Stepping Up Enforcement

Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione warned that some political fundraising texts may falsely appear to support a particular candidate or campaign. “There are more and more scams coming up every day,” she said. “As soon as the people higher up think of a way to fix things, they think of another way to scam.”

Senator Carmen Amato (R-9 th) said lawmakers need to keep pace as scammers adopt new technology and find ways around existing laws. He also warned that artificial intelligence can help scammers imitate a relative’s voice or likeness when asking for money.

Amato invited consumer affairs officials to identify statutes that need updating, particularly those involving fraud against seniors and veterans. “If you see anything that needs to be updated, please let my office know,” Amato said. “We’ll be more than happy to introduce legislation to make these penalties a little stricter.”

Assemblyman Brian Rumpf (R-9 th) followed by emphasizing the financial consequences for seniors already struggling with New Jersey’s high cost of living. He said Ocean County has approximately 100 senior communities, making protection against financial exploitation especially important locally.

“Life is tough enough as it is; costs are high all over,” Rumpf said. “But how unaffordable is it when the scammers get ahold of our loved ones’ dollars?”

Davenport said enforcement remains necessary, but it must be paired with prevention because perpetrators may be outside New Jersey or beyond the reach of local agencies by the time a complaint is received.

“We also have to make sure that we’re doing as much as we can to not have that scam happen in the first place,” Davenport said. “We know how hard it is when folks are not subject to our jurisdiction to get that money back.”

A Victim’s Embarrassment

Elsie Foster’s roles as Middlesex County’s director of Consumer Affairs and Weights and Measures and mayor of Highland Park converged when a senior called her municipal office asking why she was supposedly blocking money

owed to him.

The man had already sent scammers $15,000 and was being asked for another $20,000. Even Foster’s staff could not initially convince him that the money did not exist, prompting a police officer to visit his home.

Foster said his embarrassment after learning the truth illustrates why some victims hesitate to report fraud. Middlesex County has launched a campaign reminding residents that scammers are not trying to help them, no matter how convincing they sound.

Contractors And Used Car Dealers

Not every consumer loss begins with an anonymous caller. Representatives from Bergen, Passaic, Union, Monmouth and Ocean counties reported continuing or increasing complaints involving used car dealerships.

Some consumers buy vehicles marked “as is” without understanding that the designation can sharply limit their options if the car breaks down. Others sign documents electronically and later mistakenly believe the contracts are not legally binding.

Officials also described dealers advertising one price online and demanding thousands more when a customer arrives.

One Hudson County dealership allegedly sold high-end vehicles to out-of-state buyers but failed to deliver the titles needed to register them.

Heinzman said Ocean County has

experienced an influx of complaints involving both car dealerships and home improvement contractors. One of the enforcement challenges involves contractors who accept $10,000, perform a token amount of work such as digging a hole and then disappear.

Commissioner Robert Arace said the danger is particularly serious in Ocean County because of its large senior population. While serving as Manchester Township mayor, Arace said he learned of contractors using substandard materials in senior homes, including flooring so inadequate that residents fell through it. Some seniors live alone or no longer have family members nearby to review contracts or inspect the work, he said. That makes Consumer Affairs a critical “watchdog or safeguard” for residents who may otherwise feel they have no one to turn to.

First Line Of Defense

Davenport called local consumer offices the “first line of defense” against fraud, scams, abuse and financial exploitation. Just as important as enforcement, she said, is assuring residents that someone will listen and respond when they report a problem.

That trust grows when consumers see action and learn they are not alone, she said. Although government resources may be limited, Davenport told the county representatives, “We’re never limited when it comes to our creativity or our sense of urgency.”

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Political Parties Are A Pyramid Scheme

If you want to run for office, get in line. There are a lot of people ahead of you, and they all want their turn.

It goes a little something like this: You decide you want to help the community. You have some good ideas. People seem to like the things you say about topics. You’ve earned the respect of your immediate circle. You think it might be time to take it to the next step. But wait, first you have to pay your dues.

Before you get to call the shots, someone else has to tell you what to do. Before you practice any of your own ideas, you have to work on someone else’s.

So, you put in your time. You pound the pavement, knock on doors, and stuff envelopes for someone higher on the ladder than you.

“I’m helping,” you tell yourself, as you take another day away from your family to boost a politician you’ve never met.

The first elected position you might get is part of the county committee. Every voting district has two spots. If you get on there, then congratulations, you can then vote on who runs for board of education, council, and even the bigger spots. If you live in a tiny town with just a handful of districts, this might be a pretty big step. But if you live in a big town with dozens of districts, you’re not very special.

You’re one step higher on the

pyramid.

If you continue to toe the line, and vote for whoever the party bosses tell you to vote for, then maybe you’ll be rewarded with a spot on a volunteer committee for recreation or something – or maybe even a quasi-governmental board like the sewerage authority.

Another step!

Then after a couple of years, if you keep paying your dues, schmooze, and choose the right friends, maybe then you can be an option for one of the spots you actually wanted, like board of education or council. Finally! (It should be noted that a lot of times, people run for the board of ed and then run for council because the school is seen as less important than the town.)

And then you get to look down from your high podium. You see a bunch of newbies struggling at the bottom, wanting what you have. You might think you’ve made it. But no, your political bosses still tell you what to do, where to go, and who to spend time with.

Years - maybe decades –have passed, and after many, many sacrifices, you’re no longer a little cog in the political machine. Now, you’re just a bigger cog. There are simply fewer bosses telling you what to do, but there are still bosses. There’s only one person at the top, and it ain’t you.

Chris Lundy News Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR!

The Manchester 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.

Every Signature Matters

The members of our association were busy this week with our concerns regarding the Lennar Project. The Lennar Project would be an unwanted community changing atrocity. It would remove over 100 acres of forest, being replace with 415 housing units.

People have been requesting petitions in their communities and we listened.

This past week the members of our association distributed petitions to the following clubhouses and management offices. We went to Cranberry Creek, Sea Oaks, Mystic Shores, Tall Timbers and Walnut Grove. Ask your HOAs where the petitions are for you to sign. If not available, ask, “WHY?”

If your HOAs do not put out the petitions and you would like to sign, contact me on Facebook and one of our members will come to you for your signature.

We would like to thank the homeowners of the Sunrise Bay Community for their outstanding support in signing the petitions. We would also like to thank the businesses that have placed the petitions in their establishments for signatures.

Keep going to meetings, your presence and being seen has made a difference to keep this subject alive. We cannot fight Lennar alone, we need your help and the cooperation of other groups fighting the Lennar Project. If we all work together, we will win.

Debra Versheck, Co-Founder LEHT/Tuckerton Concerned Citizens Association

Running For Council

Jack Muldowney, a 31-year Toms River resident, former small business owner, and person in long-term recovery from opioid addiction, has announced his intention to seek a seat on the Toms

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

River Township Council as an independent candidate. Muldowney moved to Toms River at the age of 10, attended Toms River schools, and graduated from Toms River High School North. As a barber, he owned and operated businesses serving residents throughout Toms River, Brick, and Barnegat for nearly two decades before transitioning into the substance use treatment field.

“My campaign is about putting Toms River residents first,” Muldowney said. “I believe our local government should focus on protecting the people who built this community, preserving the character of our town, and making decisions with transparency and accountability.”

A central focus of Muldowney’s campaign is supporting Toms River’s senior citizens. If elected, he plans to introduce proposals that explore every lawful opportunity to help seniors remain in their homes, pursue property tax relief where possible, and oppose unnecessary overdevelopment that places additional strain on roads, schools, emergency services, and local infrastructure.

Muldowney also plans to advocate for responsible economic development by supporting regulated retail cannabis dispensaries in Toms River, subject to local oversight. He believes local tax revenue generated from legal cannabis sales should be directed toward priorities such as senior services, public safety, parks, addiction prevention and recovery programs, and other initiatives that benefit township residents while helping reduce the burden on taxpayers.

Having personally overcome opioid addiction, Muldowney says Ocean County’s experience during the opioid epidemic has shaped his commitment to prevention and recovery.

“Ocean County knows firsthand the devastation opioid addiction has caused,”

Muldowney said. “Because of my own recovery and my work helping others, I believe we have a responsibility to prevent the next addiction crisis before it grows.”

If elected, Muldowney said he intends to work with Township legal counsel, public health officials, and fellow council members to examine every lawful option available to regulate or restrict the sale of kratom within Toms River. He emphasized that he does not support the sale of kratom, especially to minors, and is concerned about situations where there is no minimum age requirement. He cited concerns that kratom contains compounds that act on opioid receptors in the brain and that dependence and withdrawal have been documented.

In addition, Muldowney said government transparency will remain a cornerstone of his campaign. He plans to advocate for greater public access to township information, increased community involvement in local decision-making, and an open government that earns the trust of residents.

“I’ve spent more than three decades calling Toms River home,” Muldowney said. “This campaign isn’t about politics - it’s about preserving the community that has given me so much and ensuring it remains a place where seniors can afford to stay, families can thrive, and residents know their voices matter.”

Muldowney said additional policy proposals addressing overdevelopment, public safety, fiscal responsibility, and quality-of-life issues will be released throughout the campaign.

Jack Muldowney Candidate for Toms River Township Council (Independent)

Can The Grand Old Party Be Grand Again?

On Memorial Day weekend while reflecting on

those brave men & women that died protecting our country and democracy, I found renewed strength to fight back and not allow the efforts by those in power to steal our democracy.

Each day multiple news sources are reporting the same news about this administration. The daily reporting of corruption, theft of taxpayer funds for illegal purposes, insider trading by high level government leaders and repeated violations of our Constitution and the law are all factually covered. If you look at more than one news source you will readily see that ‘where there’s smoke, there’s fire’. These corrupt actions are being allowed by the three branches of government, controlled by so-called fiscal conservative Republicans.

I say so-called because fiscal conservative Republicans claimed to support the economic philosophy of limited government, lower taxes, reduced spending, and minimal public debt. WHAT HAPPENED TO THOSE BELIEFS?

On ‘Meet the Press’ Sunday, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) reacted to the defeat of a Senate candidate in a Republican primary after Trump backed his rival by saying: “This is the party of Donald Trump.” Is this your Grand Old Party with all you thought it stood for or is Senator Graham correct that it is ruled by one man who governs like a king?

On November 3rd I hope you will vote for candidates that promise to take back control in Congress and protect the Constitution.

Or sadly, will your votes reflect that you favor money over all else, or wear blinders to bigotry, or simply are brainwashed by religion or Fox News?

Banks Spring Lake

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

Bill Reducing Business Filing Fees Signed Into Law

Capitol Comments

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

TRENTON - Legislation sponsored by Senator Carmen Amato (R-9 th) to reduce business filing fees and make it less expensive to start a business in New Jersey has been signed into

law.

The new law reduces two common business filing fees by $25, making it a little less expensive to start or expand a business in New Jersey.

“I would first like to thank Senator Burzichelli for allowing me to co-prime sponsor this bill. New Jersey should be encouraging entrepreneurs to invest and create jobs, not making it more expensive to get started,” said Sen. Amato. “This law removes an unnecessary cost for businesses and is a step toward creating a more welcoming environment for employers and job creators.”

Landmark “MediKids” Legislation

Would Guarantee Healthcare For All Children

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ), introduced MediKids, monumental legislation guaranteeing healthcare to all children in America from birth to age 26.

“As parents – we promise to do all we can to look after the health and safety of our children. Nothing is more essential than caring for our kids – but as a country, we are failing to uphold that same promise,” Senator Kim said. “Millions of children are falling through the cracks of our healthcare system, and we are the only ones who can stand up and help. I built MediKids to be a step we can take right now to guarantee every single child in the United States the care they need, when they need it. No kid should go without care in our country.”

4.4 million children in America do not have healthcare coverage and 1 in 3 kids

is underinsured – meaning about 23 million kids’ healthcare coverage is unable to meet their needs. To provide free, high-quality insurance coverage to every kid, MediKids would automatically enroll every child and young adult in America in Medicaid’s robust Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit, which provides comprehensive and preventive health care services for children who are enrolled in Medicaid.

Specifically, this legislation would automatically enroll every child in MediKids at birth. It would provide continuous eligibility for children enrolled in MediKids until age 26, regardless of income, immigration status, or health condition; and it would cover 100% of the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for this population.

MediKids is co-sponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Alex Padilla (D-CA) and endorsed by: First Focus Campaign for Chil-

dren, What To Expect Project, American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, (ACOG), ZERO TO THREE, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN), Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (AMCHP), National Association of School Nurses, National Education Association (NEA), Families USA, MomsRising, NAACP NJ, Save Our Schools, New Jersey Citizen Action, SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, The Arc of NJ, The New Jersey Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics, and CASA of New Jersey.

“At a time when the uninsured rates for children is rising and children face unacceptably high rates of infant and child mortality, a growing mental health crisis, and declining immunization rates, Senator Andy Kim’s MediKids bill puts children back on the path toward ensuring all children have health coverage and improved access to care. No child

in this country should go without health care simply because of what their parents earn, their zip code, or whether they can navigate a complex and fragmented health care system. In an effort to improve the health, development, and well-being of children, MediKids represents the kind of ambitious, child-centered thinking that the moment demands for our children and grandchildren,” said Bruce Lesley, President of First Focus Campaign for Children.

“Medicaid is first and foremost a children’s program that was created with their health needs in mind, helping families receive everything from milestone checkups, to sick care, to immunizations. Pediatricians see first-hand how Medicaid works for the children and families who rely on it – support that should be available to all children, regardless of where they live or where their parents work, and MediKids would do just that. The American Academy of Pediatrics applauds Senator Kim for his leadership on this bill and urges Congress to advance it,” said Andrew D. Racine, MD, PhD, FAAP, President of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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.

County Historical Society Examines Its Own Past

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER

– A group that celebrates history recently celebrated its own past as the Ocean County Historical Society marked 75 years.

The Society was founded in 1950, at the centennial of the county, said its president, Joseph Latshaw. For a long time, they didn’t really have a home of their own. There were exhibits in the courthouse and meetings were held in people’s homes.

WHITING – Manchester Little League will hold a community gift auction September 19 at the Whiting Volunteer Fire Department, 120 Lacey Road.

That is, until they purchased the Elizabeth Sculthorp Force residence for $1.

Latshaw said it had originally been on Hooper Avenue, at the northern corner of where the parking garage is now, but they moved to its current location, 26 Hadley Avenue.

Now, earlier in this article it was claimed that this was the 75th anniversary, and the Society was founded in 1950. Well, that’s because the celebration planned for last year was postponed due to winter weather.

That suited everyone at the society fine. After all, historical facts don’t change, even if our current view of them do.

And the current view of the Society is of an energetic group of volunteers hungry for knowledge and eager to share it.

To that end, they are refreshing displays. Some of it will dovetail into this year’s 250 th anniversary of the United States. Some of the items on display were donated from members. You’ll see implements of the earliest industries in the area, such

Manchester Little League Plans Gift Auction

Doors will open at 3 p.m., with the auction expected to begin around 5 p.m. The event will follow a “bring your own feast” format, allowing guests to bring snacks, treats and drinks.

Prizes will include gift baskets, restaurant gift cards, a free year of Tri-State garbage service and other items. A 50/50 drawing will also be held.

as cranberries and farming.

For the 75th anniversary, some of the photos in glass cases were of historical society members and their various projects throughout the years. Indeed, the workers were the ones being celebrated. Some of them have committed decades of their lives to the study and teaching of local history.

“If you ask someone ‘what do you do?’ most people will tell you about their jobs,” Latshaw said. “Our volunteers tell you about what they do here.”

Proceeds will support Manchester Little League players and programs. Reservations can be made by calling Sandy Drake at 732904-6260.

Blood Drive Planned At Reserve Of Lake Ridge

MANCHESTER – The Reserve of Lake Ridge will host an American Red Cross blood drive September 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the community ballroom at 707 Hollybrook Lane.

Eligible donors with type O, B-negative or A-negative blood are encouraged to consider making a Power Red donation, which can help provide red blood cells to more patients.

Appointments can be scheduled by calling

1-800-RED CROSS, visiting RedCrossBlood.org and using the sponsor code “Reserve of Lake Ridge,” or scanning the scheduling code on the event flyer.

Donors may also complete their pre-donation reading and health history through RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass on the day of their appointment. Those who donate from September 1 through 20 may receive a Red Cross and Hello Kitty collectible item while supplies last.

Sinatra Tribute Concert Coming To Leisure Knoll

MANCHESTER – The Leisure Knoll Art Appreciation Club will present a tribute to Frank Sinatra featuring performer Gerard Esposito at 7 p.m. August 22.

Esposito has performed aboard cruise ships and as a headliner in Atlantic City. He is also a New York Friars Club inductee and an East Coast Music Hall of Fame nominee.

The concert will feature Sinatra favorites along with songs made popular by Dean Martin, Paul Anka and other performers from the era.

Tickets are $25. The stadium-seating show will be held in the Performing Arts Center at Leisure Knoll, 1 Buckingham Drive North. For tickets, call Judy Manco at 732-941-9294.

Lunch And Learn To Answer Medicaid Questions

LAKEHURST – A free Lunch and Learn program addressing Medicaid questions will be held August 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Italy’s Best, 652 Route 70.

The event will be hosted by Geri Oliverie of Oliverie Funeral Home and will

feature guest speaker Chris Bartoli of Better Insurance Management. Participants will have an opportunity to learn more about Medicaid and ask questions during the program. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 732-657-4900.

Library Plans Programs

MANCHESTER – The Ocean County Library’s Manchester Branch will offer educational, cultural and recreational programs throughout August at 21 Colonial Drive.

Programs on August 6 include the Shore Memory Café at 10 a.m. for people experiencing early cognitive decline and their care partners, the Book Lover’s Café at 2 p.m. and a Pinelands Alliance presentation on regional plants and animals at 7 p.m.

Fred Lehotay and the Ragtimers will perform patriotic favorites at 2 p.m. August 10 in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary. An Ocean County College

outreach specialist will visit August 11 with information about Health First New Jersey training programs and scholarship opportunities.

The library will host “Draw and Discover: Charcoal for Non-Artists” at 11 a.m. August 12, followed by a Beach Book Binge discussion at 2 p.m. Rutgers Master Gardeners will answer questions about plants and gardens from 1 to 3 p.m. August 19.

Registration is required for select programs. For more information, call 732657-7600 or visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events.

Whiting Station Seeks Vendors For Annual Craft Fair

WHITING – The Residents Club of Whiting Station is seeking additional vendors for its annual craft fair, scheduled for November 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event will be held in the clubhouse ballroom at 323 Gardenia Drive and is expected to draw a strong turnout of local

shoppers.

Vendor tables cost $30, or $35 with access to electricity.

Those interested in reserving space should email Maryellen at Melons519@ aol.com as soon as possible for additional information.

Car, Truck And Motorcycle Show Planned

WHITING – Crestwood Village VII will host its Cruising to Crestwood VII Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. August 1 in the clubhouse parking lot at 1 Falmouth Ave.

The show is open to vehicles of all years, makes and models. Registration will be accepted the day of the event for $20.

The event will feature custom trophies, a DJ, music, vendors and food. It is being hosted by the Crestwood Village VII Events Committee and Jersey Shore Car Shows.

Whiting Station Plans Communitywide Trash To Treasure Sale

WHITING – Whiting Station will hold its annual “Trash to Treasure” sale September 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. throughout the community.

Participating homeowners will offer items for sale from their driveways and garages, giving shoppers a chance to browse multiple sales in one neighbor-

The rain date is August 8. For more information, call 732-715-0813 or visit JerseyShoreCarShows.com. hood.

Whiting Station is located along both sides of Lacey Road near Schoolhouse Road in Whiting.

The rain date is September 26. Organizers said the event offers residents and visitors an opportunity to turn someone else’s unwanted items into new treasures.

Blood Drive Planned At Oliverie Funeral Home

MANCHESTER – A community blood drive will be held August 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Oliverie Funeral Home, 2925 Ridgeway Road.

Organizers are encouraging eligible donors to make an appointment and help support the local blood supply. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 732-657-4900.

Annual Church Flea Market Returns

WHITING – Whiting United Methodist Church will hold its annual flea market September 19 at 55 Lacey Road, across from Crestwood Manor.

Doors open at 8 a.m. The event will fea-

ture homemade soup, mums, fresh baked goods and a variety of household items and other finds.

Organizers encourage visitors to arrive early for the once-a-year sale.

C ommunity n ew S

St. Stephen’s Announces Fundraisers And Community Events

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church has announced three upcoming events that will raise money for its ministries while offering shopping, food and community activities.

The church’s annual Dignified Junque Flea Market will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 29 at 180 Route 539.

Items for sale will include housewares, holiday decorations, linens, clothing, books, electronics, puzzles, picture frames, furniture and more. The church kitchen will be open, and baked goods will also be available.

St. Stephen’s is also selling $5 shopping

passes for Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends event Oct. 21. Pass holders may shop from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at any Boscov’s location and receive discounts on eligible purchases.

The church will host a Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 24. The event will feature crafts, seasonal merchandise, food, baked goods, door prizes, a treasure auction and a 50/50 raffle.

Shopping passes may be purchased at the church office from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

For information about any of the events, call 732-350-2121.

Free Program Promotes Healthy Aging For Seniors

MANCHESTER – The Wellness Initiative for Senior Education program will offer free lessons on healthy aging beginning September 1 at the Civic Center, 1 Colonial Drive. The six-session program is open to Manchester residents age 60 and older who have not previously participated. Classes will be held from noon to 2 p.m. September 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, and October 6.

Participants will learn about the aging process, healthy lifestyle choices, risk fac-

tors and behaviors to avoid. The program will also explore how alcohol, prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications may affect older adults differently. Each session will include a free light lunch and refreshments. Participants will also receive educational materials and giveaways. Registration is required by August 20. For more information or to register, contact Barbara Sprechman at bsprechman@aol. com or 732-259-3875.

Women’s Club To Host Flea Market, Health Fair

WHITING – The Women’s Club of Deerfield Hall will host a fundraiser flea market and health fair Oct. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, in Crestwood Village 6. Vendor tables are available for $15 in the center of the room and $20 along the wall. The kitchen will be open with light break-

fast items and snacks available for purchase.

The event will also feature a 50/50 raffle and door prizes.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will support the club’s efforts to give back to the community.

To reserve a table, call 732-881-1044 or email deerfieldwomansclub@aol.com.

Antique And Classic Car Show Returns

WHITING – Christ Lutheran Church will hold its second annual Fall Antique and Classic Car Show on September 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 40 Schoolhouse Road. The event will feature awards, food, music and a 50/50 drawing. Participation is limited to the first 100 vehicles, with registration beginning at 9 a.m.

Advance registration costs $17, while registration on the day of the show is $20. Checks should be made payable to Christ Lutheran Church and mailed to the church at 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759.

Spectator parking will be available in the church’s side lots. The rain date is October 3.

Beginner Chariot Riders Welcome

MANCHESTER – Manchester Recreation will offer residents a chance to explore horseback riding this summer through Chariot Riders programs designed for beginners.

Participants can take part in horseback trail rides through woodland paths on August 15. The rides are open to those new to horseback

riding and provide an opportunity to experience the outdoors while learning the basics. Manchester Recreation also announced a summer equestrian camp session in August. Campers will learn how to ride and care for a horse as part of the hands-on program.

Registration is available online at parksrec. egov.basgov.com/manchesternj.

Free Baseball Camp Returns

MANCHESTER – The Blue Diamond Baseball Camp will return this summer, offering free instruction for young athletes from Manchester and Lakehurst.

The Manchester Police Department, Manchester PAL and Manchester Little League will host the camp from 9 to 11:30 a.m. August 17, 18 and 19 at Manchester Little League, 2425 Ridgeway Road. The three-day camp is open to Manchester and Lakehurst residents ages 8 to 12.

Participants will receive instruction in hitting, pitching, fielding, base running, teamwork, sportsmanship and confidence-building. The camp will be led by local law enforcement officers with baseball experience, including former collegiate athletes and high-level high school players.

Free advanced baseball and softball clinics

also will be offered August 17 for Manchester and Lakehurst residents ages 13 to 17. The clinics will focus on pitching and hitting, with instruction from experienced collegiate athletes, professional draft picks and coaches. Baseball instructors include Casey Gaynor, a former Rutgers University pitcher and current Montclair State University pitching coach; Jake Daubert, a former Rutgers player, Seattle Mariners draft pick and current hitting instructor; and Officer Chris Cerullo, a former Division I baseball player and camp director. Softball instruction will be provided by Officer Jordan Weed, a former Division I pitcher at Boston College, and Officer Ashley Ventura, a former Division I pitcher at Saint Joseph’s University. Space is limited and registration is required at forms. gle/7nCcy6k79v3wbM2fA.

Holiday Theater Trip Planned

WHITING – The Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club is accepting reservations for a December 10 trip to see Irving Berlin’s “Holiday Inn” at Surflight Theatre.

The $155 package includes round-trip transportation, admission to the musical, dinner at Calloway’s restaurant and gratuities. Entrée selections include prime rib, penne alla vodka, chicken Francaise or broiled salmon.

The musical follows a performer who leaves

show business to begin a new life in Connecticut. Travelers will meet at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, at 11:45 a.m. and return at approximately 7:45 p.m.

A second $50 payment is due August 10, followed by a final $55 payment October 19. Seats remain available, and reservations may be made Monday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m. at Unity Hall or by calling Rose Kantenwein at 973-9035612 or Donna Brown at 973-896-9964.

Church Selling Fundraiser Shopping Passes

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church is selling $5 shopping passes for Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends event, which will be held October 21.

The pass can be used at any Boscov’s store from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and will allow shoppers to receive discounts and access special sale items.

Proceeds from the pass sales will support programs at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, located at 180 Route 539 in Whiting.

Passes are available at the church office from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For more information, call 732350-2121.

Woman’s Club

WHITING – The Deerfield Woman’s Club will hold a flea market from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. October 3. Tables are available for vendors at a cost of $15 for one table or $25 for two tables.

Those interested in reserving space or learning more can call 732-881-1044 and leave a name and phone number. The club can also be reached by email at Deerfieldwomansclub@aol.com.

C ommunity n ew S

Fire Officials Share Grill Safety Tips

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Division of Emergency Services is reminding residents to take precautions when using propane grills during the summer season.

Officials said residents should check the gas tank hose for leaks before using a grill for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution can be applied to the hose, and bubbling may indicate a propane leak. If a leak is detected by smell or through the soapy water test and there is no flame, residents should turn off both the gas tank

and the grill. If the leak stops, the grill should be serviced by a professional before it is used again. If the leak does not stop, residents should call the fire department. Anyone who smells gas while cooking should immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department. Officials also said not to move the grill in that situation.

If the flame goes out, residents should turn off the grill and gas, then wait at least five minutes before relighting it.

Training To Focus On Elder Exploitation

WHITING – A free training session aimed at helping residents recognize and prevent elder exploitation will be held at 1 p.m. September 19 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539.

The program will address how older adults can become targets for force, fraud or coercion, particularly when they are facing loneliness, physical disabilities, dementia or other cognitive impairments. The issue has been identified as a growing concern by law enforcement and advocacy organizations, in-

cluding the FBI and New Jersey State Police. The presentation will be led by an authorized speaker for the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking. Topics will include warning signs of elder exploitation, common methods used by perpetrators and practical steps people can take to protect themselves or others.

Older adults, caregivers, relatives and concerned neighbors are encouraged to attend. Seating is limited, and reservations can be made by calling 732-350-2121.

Italian Night Dinner Set

WHITING – The Ladies Auxiliary of Whiting Volunteer Fire Company will host an Italian Night spaghetti dinner on October 18 at the firehouse.

Dinner will be served at 5 p.m., followed by music and dancing with Lou Abbato

from 7 to 10 p.m.

Tickets are $25 per person. The event is presented by the Ladies Auxiliary of Whiting Volunteer Fire Company.

For more information or tickets, call Diane at 732-948-6025.

Crestwood Village 6 Halloween Dance Planned

MANCHESTER – The Crestwood Village 6 Residents Club will host a Halloween dance from 6 to 10 p.m. October 17 at The Deerfield Hall clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. The event will feature music by DJ Billy Phillips, along with raffles and a 50/50 drawing.

River Lady Cruise To Be Held

MANCHESTER – Christ Lutheran Church is planning a River Lady Cruise on September 11, with reservations now being accepted for the event.

The cost is $62 per person. A $10 deposit is required to hold a spot, with the remaining balance due when participants choose their lunch.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to make reservations early, as space may be limited.

For more information, see Dottie Kaster or call the church office at 732-350-0900.

Tickets are $10 each and will be available every Monday at the clubhouse.

Snacks, soda, water, coffee, tea and dessert will be included. Guests may bring their own beverages and food. Costumes are encouraged but not required.

Disney Trading Event Makes Bayville The Happiest Place On Earth

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY –

Disney music played over the speakers in the Bayville Elks hall as people came from miles around to share their love of collectible pins that are found only at Disney parks.

Some pins are incredibly rare, such as artist proofs just are just a few dozen in existence. They can go for hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Like baseball cards or comic books, they didn’t start out as collectible. They just became sought-after as the popularity increased, meaning the older pins are much more rare since kids lose them or parents throw them out.

Vendors had tables of pins – some for sale and some for trade. Visitors came stocked with binders full of pins, and some came with boxes on handcarts. A section of the hall was set aside for families to trade pins or color in some coloring books.

Scott Peterka of Long Beach Island was one of the exhibitors with his daughter, Olivia. Their Main Street Pin Co. had a number of pins for sale or trade. Scott said they first went to Disney when she was a newborn, and they try to go once a year. He described the pins as a tangible memory of

that trip. Whether you got the pin at a ride you loved, or from a character you met, or even the hotel where you stayed, every pin carries a story with it.

“It’s a lot of fun, a good crowd, and a great layout,” he said of the show. “I hope they do it again.”

Lauren and Chris Graham of Waretown made ways to display your pins. They had silhouettes of recognizable Disney characters carved out of wood, felt and foam.

The youth group of the Elks, the Antlers were also on the scene, serving food and helping visitors.

Elk Jan Bernardino said the event was a fundraiser to send local kids to the Elks Peer Leadership Conference, where they learn leadership, anti-bullying strategies, and other ways to make the right choices such as a lifestyle free from drugs.

“Kids have so much raw emotion inside them and have no idea how to deal with them,” she said.

The idea for the event came from Elks member Kim Morris. When she was young, she received her first pin on a trip to Disney. By the time she brought her kids, Disney started offering lanyards to wear them,

then they had pin trading at the park. These became opportunities not only to collect keepsakes, but to tell stories of how you got them.

“You’re sharing that joy with others,” she explained.

Summer Concert Series Set For Mondays

SEASIDE PARK – The Borough of Seaside Park will host its Monday Night Summer Concert Series through August 25.

The concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the Police Station Lawn, 1 Municipal Plaza, Seaside Park.

Residents and visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy live music outdoors throughout the summer season. The series is part of the borough’s seasonal community programming.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Psychophysiological Dizziness

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

(PPPD):

Overview And Treatment

Psychophysiological dizziness, commonly known today as Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD), is a chronic form of dizziness influenced by how the brain processes balance signals under stress. It is a real physical condition, often triggered by illness, stress, or vestibular events. PPPD is a chronic dizziness disorder, where a person feels ongoing unsteadiness or motion sensitivity, even though standard tests are all normal. Unlike classic vertigo, there is no spinning sensation most of the time, symptoms of persistent, not episodic and all imaging studies are normal.

Common Symptoms

• Constant or frequent unsteadiness or rocking sensation

• Worsens when standing or walking

• Increased discomfort in busy environments (stores, crowds, screens)

• Feeling ‘off balance’ or disconnected Common Triggers

• Inner ear or vestibular illness

• Panic attacks or prolonged stress

• Concussion or other physical illness

What’s Happening in the Body

• The brain becomes overly sensitive to balance signals and relies too heavily on visual input. This creates a cycle where normal movement feels exaggerated, and anxiety reinforces dizziness.

Treatment Approaches

1. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT):

A specialized physical therapy that retrains the brain to process motion and balance correctly through controlled exposure exercises.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Helps break the cycle between anxiety and dizziness and reduces sensitivity to symptoms.

3. Medication (if needed)

Certain medications such as SSRIs (Sertraline, Escitalopram) may help regulate the brain’s sensory processing and reduce symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Maintain regular sleep patterns

• Avoid excessive focus on symptoms

• Gradually expose yourself to triggering environments

Important Notes PPPD is not dangerous but can be persistent. It responds best to a combination of therapy, gradual exposure, and sometimes medication.

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!

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dear Pharmacist

Coffee And Your Heart: Some Surprisingly Good News

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

I should confess that I’m not exactly an impartial observer - I love coffee. For years, my daily ritual was a double-shot latte, sometimes followed by a single shot later in the day. Coffee didn’t merely wake me up, it felt like my brain in a cup!

Unfortunately, my reflux was less enthusiastic. I gave up coffee completely for six months while my esophagus healed. These days, I can tolerate only a little decaf before the burning returns. So yes, a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA) made me genuinely happy.

The AHA reviewed the latest research on caffeine and cardiovascular disease: For most healthy adults, up to 400 mg of caffeine daily which is about 3 to 5 eight-ounce cups of ordinary brewed coffee. Moderate coffee consumption has also been associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, type 2 diabetes and certain abnormal heart rhythms.

The apparent sweet spot was something like 2 or 3 cups (possibly even 4 cups) per day. However, this good news isn’t a prescription to start chugging coffee. I’d stick to two cups if you’re asking me. Most long-term studies were observational, meaning they found associations but couldn’t actually prove coffee caused the benefits.

Heart rhythm findings were especially interesting. Regular coffee wasn’t associated with a higher risk of AFib, and randomized data suggest it might even reduce episodes in some people. However, coffee may increase premature ventricular contractions, or PVCs, so there’s that! Extra heartbeats and fluttering are

a little alarming.

Brewing method matters too. Coffee contains natural oils called cafestol and kahweol that appear to raise LDL cholesterol. Paper-filtered drip and instant coffee contain very little cafestol, while French press, Turkish, boiled coffee and espresso allow more into your cup. If your cholesterol is high, I have better ideas for you than giving it up.

It is good for your thinking cap and brain. That isn’t breaking news because we’ve seen that in cognitive studies before. Recently, a 2026 JAMA study followed more than 131,000 adults for up to 43 years. Higher caffeinated-coffee intake was associated with an 18 percent lower risk of dementia, with the strongest association around 2 to 3 cups daily. Decaf did not show the same association.

I’ve always thought coffee received an unfairly grim reputation. Why?! If it gives you the jitters, worsens reflux, disrupts sleep, raises your blood pressure or makes your heart misbehave, don’t drink it. Your body has already cast its vote. But coffee doesn’t affect everyone that way, and moderate intake may offer some impressive benefits.

Coffee’s chlorogenic acid may “mug” nonheme iron by reducing its absorption (and decaf can do it too). Caffeine may also temporarily increase calcium and magnesium losses through the kidneys - what I call the drug mugging effect. But that concern applies primarily to caffeinated coffee or espresso.

For a more detailed version of this article, including coffee’s effects on blood pressure, medications, and energy drinks, visit suzycohen.com and type coffee into the search box.

(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.

Geraldine Oliverie, Mgr. Lic #3833 Michael Hennicke, Dir. Lic #3966

• Family Owned & Operated

• Funeral, Cremation, Memorial Services

• Funeral Directors Live On Premises

• Serving the Area Since 1987

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

Geri & Mike

The Manchester Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

Buying And Selling A Boat Are Fertile Grounds For Scammers

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

If you are considering buying or selling a boat, then you should be aware that the market is full of bogus buyers and sellers. When it comes to buying or selling a boat, if anything seems unusual then proceed with caution. While fraudulent transactions apply to both purchase and sales, this article will focus on the seller’s side of the transaction.

If selling your boat is not difficult enough, these days the last thing you need is to encounter someone, somewhere, trying to trick you at least once, if not two or more times as you try to complete the boat-selling process. Because fraud comes in all shapes and sizes, it is not possible for us to focus on one type of transaction, so we will concentrate on the most common red flags.

Obvious poor punctuation and grammar. These scammers crank out a thousand of their “inquiries” every day and many of them have a poor grasp of the English language. Also, pay attention to their use of multiple phone numbers (and/or multiple email addresses) from the same individual.

Everything the alleged buyer asked about was thoroughly detailed in your listing. Some of these scammers operate through robo or computerized forms of communication like e-mail or texting. So, if the potential purchaser is asking you for information that is already in your listing then this should raise a red flag and you should proceed with extreme caution.

Enlisting a third party to pick up the boat without the buyer ever having inspected it. Boats are not cheap. No credible buyer will purchase a boat sight unseen. A credible purchaser will at least obtain a boat survey, which is similar to a home inspection. In addition, most honest

buyers will be present when the boat is picked-up, rather than sending an agent to do take possession of your boat.

The offer to pay by cashier’s check and pick up the boat after it had been cashed. This seems like a reasonable show of good faith, but scammers have become very good at printing fake checks so realistic that banks initially accept them. It isn’t until days or even weeks later that the scam becomes apparent, and then the bank can pull those funds right back out of your account. Check with your bank to confirm its policy regarding final acceptance of funds.

Paypal or Venmo variation of payment. The phony buyer will ask for your PayPal ID in order to send you a payment, possibly for substantially more than the purchase price. Shortly after that, you will receive a fake confirmation from PayPal with your user ID for more than the agreed purchase price, and the buyer will contact you asking you to forward the extra money to a shipper. Again, you’ll lose whatever money you’ve sent.

An unwillingness to provide basic proof of identity such as a photo of their driver’s license. If they are who they say they are then there should be no issue with providing proof of their identity. Automobile dealerships will obtain proof of your identify when you try to purchase one of their vehicles. Strangers routinely share this basic information when they are involved in motor vehicle collisions, so it should not be sacred during the purchase of a boat or a car.

R.C. Shea & Associates is a full-service Law Firm. We are located at 244 Main Street, Toms River. Visit our website at www.rcshea.com or call us at (732) 505 1212.

Country Star Jon Pardi Heads To Hard Rock

ATLANTIC CITY – Country singer-songwriter Jon Pardi will bring his Gamblin’ Man Tour 2026 to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena at 8 p.m. September 18.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. July 24 through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com

Organizers said all shows are subject to change.

Pardi has released five studio albums,

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including his latest, “HonkyTonk Hollywood.” His catalog includes four Top 5 albums and 14 RIAA-certified singles. Among his best-known songs are “Head Over Boots” and “Dirt on My Boots.” The California native has also accumulated more than 9 billion global streams and built an international following through years of touring.

Around the JerSey Shore

Judge Halts $110B Warner Bros.Paramount Mega-Merger

TRENTON — A federal judge has temporarily stopped the proposed $110 billion merger of Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Skydance while a multistate antitrust challenge moves forward.

U.S. District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín issued a temporary restraining order Monday preventing the companies from completing the deal or taking steps to combine their operations. The order will remain in place for 14 days unless it is extended. A hearing on a longer-lasting preliminary injunction is scheduled for Aug. 3 in Oakland, California.

New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport joined attorneys general from 11 other states in filing the lawsuit July 13 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

The states contend the merger would violate federal antitrust law by reducing competition in film distribution, blockbuster movie releases and the licensing of basic cable channels. They argue the transaction could lead to increased consumer prices, fewer programming choices and lower-quality entertainment.

“The order, which temporarily blocks this unlawful merger while our case continues, is a major win for consumers,” Davenport said. “It is the first step in what I hope will be a total victory for New Jerseyans, who can ill-afford another price hike caused by opportunistic billionaires.”

The proposed transaction calls for Paramount to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery for approximately $110 billion. The combined company would control two of Hollywood’s five major studios, more than 50 basic cable channels, CBS, HBO, Showtime and the Paramount+, HBO Max and Discovery+ streaming services.

The court said the states presented substantial evidence that the combined company could control about 27% of the market for widely released theatrical films. The judge also found the transaction could cause irreparable harm because it might be difficult or impossible to separate the businesses after their operations and employees were combined.

Paramount and Warner Bros. argued that the states relied on flawed assumptions about the entertainment industry and underestimated competition within the market. The judge found those arguments raised factual disputes but did not outweigh the states’ concerns at this stage of the case.

The restraining order requires both companies to continue operating independently while the court considers whether to block the merger throughout the litigation.

California is leading the lawsuit. The coalition also includes Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon and Washington.

Ocean Health Initiatives Earns Top Flu Prevention Honor

OCEAN COUNTY — Ocean Health Initiatives Inc. has received top recognition from the New Jersey Department of Health for its efforts to promote influenza vaccination and educate the public about flu prevention.

The organization was named one of six Top Honors recipients on the state’s 20252026 New Jersey Influenza Honor Roll, administered by the Department of Health’s Vaccine Preventable Disease Program. State health officials recognized OHI for helping residents understand the benefits of flu vaccination and encouraging people to protect themselves and others during the most recent flu season.

Vaccination is particularly important for people who face a greater risk of serious

complications, including young children, pregnant women, adults age 65 and older, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

Other Top Honors recipients included St. John the Baptist Church, the Hamilton Township Division of Health, Hackensack Meridian Health, Preferred Care and Rutgers University.

The Influenza Honor Roll highlights organizations that develop outreach campaigns, share prevention information and encourage vaccination throughout their communities.

Additional information about the program and its award recipients is available at nj.gov/health/cd/edu_training/vpdp_flu_ honor_roll.shtml.

CASA Seeks Volunteers For Fall Training

OCEAN COUNTY – Court Appointed Special Advocates of Ocean County is seeking volunteers for its fall pre-service training program.

Training sessions are scheduled for September 15, 22 and 29; October 6, 13, 20 and

27; and November 3.

CASA volunteers advocate for children involved in the court system, offering support and helping ensure their needs are heard.

More information is available at casaonoceancounty.org.

ATLANTIC CITY – Hundreds of human resources professionals, business leaders, managers and workplace decision-makers are expected to attend the 35th annual SHRM New Jersey Conference & Expo from September 27-29 at the Atlantic City Convention Center.

This year’s theme, “The Science of HR: From Innovation to Integration,” will focus on emerging technology, employment law, workplace culture, leadership development and strategies organizations can apply to a changing

Around the JerSey Shore

HR Conference Returns

workplace. Attendees may earn SHRM, HRCI and HRIP recertification credits while choosing from five concurrent session blocks, two larger “Mega Sessions” and three general sessions.

Opening keynote speaker Geoffrey Klein, a bestselling author and artificial intelligence consultant, will discuss using AI to improve communication, collaboration and employee experiences without losing the human side of work. Louis Lessig will moderate a legislative update on legal and regulatory issues af-

fecting employers, while closing keynote speaker Lu Ann Cahn, an author, career coach and eight-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, will speak about how trying new things can help leaders build innovative and resilient organizations. Networking opportunities will include a Sunday Sunset Cruise, a Monday evening reception and an expo featuring HR technology, employee benefits, recruiting services, compliance resources, workplace wellness programs and other business products. The conference

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

will also include a fundraising auction benefiting the SHRM Foundation, with scholarships, education, research and workforce initiatives among the programs supported.

Advance registration is required for the Sunset Cruise because space is limited. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for companies offering products or services for employers and workers. Registration, speaker information and the full agenda are available at shrmnj. org/conference.

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Around the JerSey Shore

Bipartisan Bill Could Make Housing Affordable

By Stephanie Faughnan

JERSEY

SHORE

- An interview scheduled with United States Senator Andy Kim about the passage of a major bipartisan housing package took on added significance after President Donald Trump canceled plans to sign the legislation just hours before the ceremony was expected to take place.

Trump had been expected to sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act on June 24, but canceled the ceremony, later saying he would not sign the measure until Congress passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

The legislation passed the Senate on June 22 by an overwhelming 85-5 vote and cleared the House the following day by a 358-32 margin. Both New Jersey senators, Democrats Kim and Cory Booker, supported the measure, as did the Republican congressmen who represent this area, Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew.

Kim, who serves on the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, helped shape portions of the package through his committee work. In discussing the legislation, he highlighted several provisions he said could have particular significance for Ocean County, where residents continue to grapple with escalating housing costs, limited housing inventory, rising rents and an aging population increasingly concerned about affordability.

Under the Constitution, legislation generally becomes law ten days after being presented to the president, excluding Sundays, if Congress remains in session and the president takes no action. The legislation passed by margins well above the two-thirds threshold required for Congress to potentially override a veto.

Despite Trump’s decision to postpone signing the measure, Kim expressed confidence that the legislation would ultimately become law. “First and foremost, this bill will become law,” Kim said. “I think the president is really just misjudging this situation. The American people are demanding this. They absolutely need this.”

Addressing Housing Supply

The package has been described as the most significant federal housing legislation approved in more than 30 years. It combines provisions from more than 60 separate housing bills, including 36 with bipartisan sponsorship, and seeks to address what lawmakers from both parties view as the nation’s primary housing challenge: a shortage of homes.

“The number one issue I hear about is housing and the cost of housing in New Jersey,” Kim said. “One in every four people, 25 percent of our state, are paying 50 percent or more of their earnings towards housing. That’s crazy.”

The legislation includes grants to convert

vacant commercial buildings into housing, creates a pilot program for FHA-backed loans under $100,000 and establishes a $200 million annual grant program for communities that increase housing production through zoning reforms and streamlined permitting.

Additional provisions seek to modernize manufactured housing rules, expand access to smaller mortgages and simplify participation in federal housing voucher programs. Lawmakers from both parties have argued that increasing housing supply is essential to reducing long-term affordability pressures. The package also includes measures intended to curb institutional investor activity in the single-family housing market, an issue Kim said frequently arises in discussions with prospective homebuyers. “These big private equity companies, these big Wall Street investment companies, they just can’t come in and start buying up all these single-family homes,” Kim said. “We can’t have families in Ocean County going up against Wall Street. That’s not fair.”

Sandy Lessons Kim said his committee work enabled him to help shape several provisions included in the final package, particularly those related to disaster recovery and housing development.

Among the provisions Kim highlighted were permanent authorization of the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program through the Reforming Disaster Recovery Act. The legislation also establishes an Office of Disaster Management and Resiliency within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to oversee future disaster recovery efforts.

Although New Jersey received approximately $4.2 billion in disaster recovery funding following Superstorm Sandy, existing rules prevented much of that money from being used to build affordable housing. The legislation would, for the first time, permit municipalities to use certain Community Development Block Grant funds to construct new housing.

“We were not allowed to use any of that for rebuilding homes and for the development of affordable housing, and that really tied our hands,” Kim said. “That’s something I heard from communities all across the state, and I’m proud that I was able to deliver that in this bill.”

Kim said the change could prove especially important for shore communities seeking to address housing shortages while preparing for future storms.

The package also incorporates portions of the bipartisan BUILD Housing Act, which streamlines parts of the federal environmental review process by allowing HUD to delegate certain review responsibilities to state and local governments and simplifying

(Housing - See Page 29)

Around the JerSey Shore

Viral Toms River Tornado Photo Exposed As AI Hoax

By Jason Allentoff

TOMS RIVER – A fabri -

cated image appearing to show a tornado near Hooper Avenue and Route 37 spread across social media July 18, prompting a warning about the dangers of sharing unverified information during severe weather.

The Jersey Shore Hurricane News Facebook page was the first to debunk the post which spread like wildfire to the region. The National Weather Service confirmed the image was created using artificial intelligence and did not show an actual tornado in Toms River.

While fake weather images may seem harmless, they can influence decisions during emergencies. Residents may seek shelter, leave their homes, alter travel plans or contact family members based on what they see online.

False images can also create unnecessary panic, place additional drivers on already dangerous roads and make people believe severe weather is closer than it actually is. The misinformation can have lasting consequences. Once people discover a dramatic image was fabricated, they may become less likely to trust future alerts, including legitimate warnings issued during a real emergency.

The concern is especially significant

in Ocean County, where many senior citizens and other residents rely on Facebook and similar platforms for local news and emergency information. Not everyone has the time or ability to verify each photograph or video before reacting.

Residents are encouraged to pause before sharing dramatic weather content, check the original source and look for confirmation from the National Weather Service, local emergency officials or established news organizations.

Questionable photographs and videos should not be circulated as authentic until they can be verified.

Bad information can lead to dangerous decisions. During severe weather, everyone has a role in preventing misinformation from spreading.

P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES

JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES

SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

Swann

Around the JerSey Shore

Healing The Children New Jersey Names New Board President

NEW JERSEY – Healing the Children

New Jersey has appointed Debra Dunn, a registered nurse and longtime volunteer, as president of its Board of Trustees.

Dunn joined the organization’s board in 2021 and previously served as secretary and vice president. She began volunteering with the humanitarian nonprofit in 2009 as a surgical nurse on international medical missions.

Since then, Dunn has participated in 14 trips to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Peru, working with ear, nose and throat, urology and ophthalmology teams. She has served as both an operating room nurse and trip administrator.

Executive Director Tricia McNamara said Dunn’s medical background, volunteer experience and vision for the organization will help guide its continued growth.

“Debby leads by example and has a true passion for our mission and the children we serve,” McNamara said.

Dunn also serves as the organization’s director of surgical supplies and equipment.

In that role, she coordinates and packs instruments, medications and other materials needed for each mission.

Healing the Children New Jersey honored Dunn with its Jhansi Chowdary Nurse of the Year Award in 2024.

Dunn said her work on international mis-

sions has shown her how corrective surgery can transform the lives of children and their families.

She said she hopes to help the organization expand its services for children in New Jersey and abroad.

Healing the Children New Jersey provides medical care and other support to underserved children through local and international programs.

County Marks 250th With Stars And Stripes Spectacular

OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Parks and Recreation thanked residents and visitors who attended the 250th Stars and Stripes Spectacular and Drone Show, a community celebration held in honor of America’s milestone anniversary.

The event brought the public together for a patriotic evening hosted by Ocean County

Parks and Recreation, featuring a drone show as part of the festivities.

Officials expressed appreciation to everyone who came out to support the celebration and take part in the countywide event.

More information about Ocean County Parks and Recreation programs and events can be found at co.ocean.nj.us.

Housing:

Continued From Page 26 reviews for some housing projects. Supporters contend the changes could reduce delays and lower construction costs while preserving environmental protections.

Potential Impact On Seniors

Our region’s large senior population could also benefit from several provisions in the legislation, including updates to longstanding federal housing programs frequently used to develop and preserve affordable and senior housing. Supporters hope those changes will accelerate construction while reducing administrative barriers.

The package also includes the Whole-Home Repairs Act, establishing pilot programs that would allow states and local governments to provide grants and forgivable loans for critical home repairs and accessibility improvements. The funding could help older adults remain safely in their homes by paying for modifications such as wheelchair ramps, grab bars and other safety improvements.

The legislation also directs the Government

Accountability Office to study barriers older adults and people with disabilities face in obtaining affordable housing. It does not however provide direct rent relief or create new rent-control measures, meaning many residents facing immediate affordability challenges may see little short-term impact.

Kim acknowledged that the legislation will not immediately solve New Jersey’s housing affordability challenges. “I don’t want people to think that this bill is a magic wand. It’s not,” he said. “We have real problems when it comes to housing affordability and construction, and in New Jersey it’s particularly pronounced because we know that our housing was already very expensive.”

Kim said the package nevertheless demonstrates that bipartisan cooperation remains possible on issues affecting families across the political spectrum.

“There definitely were compromises,” Kim said. “I, for one, think that the government should have been able to put more money directly into affordable housing building, but when we’re trying to get bipartisan support, we’re trying to find other ways to be able to get that done.”

Shrine Ladies Club Plans Sunset Dinner Cruise

TOMS RIVER. – The Ocean County Shrine

Ladies Club will host a sunset dinner cruise fundraiser aboard the River Lady on August 21. The cruise will depart from 1 Robbins Parkway in Toms River. Boarding begins at 5:30 p.m., with sailing scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m.

Tickets are $75 per person and are nonrefundable. Reservations are required. A cash bar will be available.

Guests must select one entrée when making a reservation. Dinner choices include chicken Francese, chicken marsala, filet of salmon, eggplant parmesan, penne vodka, plain grilled salmon, gluten-free salmon and gluten-free pasta primavera.

Meals include salad, vegetables, potatoes, rolls

and dessert. Coffee and tea will be served with dessert. Gluten-free bread and dessert are not available. Guests with food allergies should include that information when making a reservation so organizers can determine whether accommodations are possible.

Checks should be made payable to OCSLC and mailed to Donna Carbone, 36 Charlen Road, Toms River, NJ 08755. For more information, call 201-406-5515.

Guests requesting group seating should submit all names at the same time and indicate whether they prefer upstairs or downstairs seating.

Proceeds will support Shriners Children’s Philadelphia.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

27 Good intel 29 Shortly 33 Flow out 34 Jeans material

35 Miss, in Mexico

36 “Carpe diem” acronym

37 “My Neighbor __”:

1988 Miyazaki film

38 Sr.’s course for college credit

39 Sonia Sotomayor’s alma mater

Pie in the __

“I’m cool with that”

Deadly African snakes

Release, as a carabiner

“__ loves company”

Seashore

More impolite

First game of the sea-

Dreyer’s ice cream, east of the Rockies

“The Fresh Prince of

“Atlas” actor Liu

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Today is a positive day in the Universal sky for getting things done and meeting new people if your individual cycles align. Creative solutions could arise with ease. Career magic could be brewing behind the scenes.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Investing time, energy, and/or money into your home space could build something that will both serve and please going forward. Financial energies are mixed, lean into remediation over rebellion.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Trust builds when actions match up with words, and fractures when they don’t. Someone close — even a pet - could have healing magic to offer, whether its sympathy and solidarity, wags, or purrs.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Your financial situation is building more positivity but not everyone may be transparent — use care in shared investments or where shared resources are involved. Trust your path forward.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): There’s addition by subtraction and there’s also addition by addition. You are your ultimate masterpiece. Remove what’s not you; add what makes you ever more of your truest self. Take a little timeout today if you can.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The beauty of the outcome rests on two things: strong preparation and excellent timing. The next week or so are good times to prepare. Early August offers better days for launch if your individual

FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 1 - 7 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

transits line up.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Some periods are better for internal experiences, other times are better for expanding your friendship network. The next month or so is for expansion. Get out there on above-zero days, better days improve odds.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you build it, they do eventually come. Build your resume, credentials, certifications, skills, knowledge base. Not one bit of learning is ever wasted, even if it seems premature at times.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): If you feel like an imposter, and you are, consider leading only with what you really know. If you feel like an imposter, and you’re not, consider working on releasing old fear and shame.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): If you’ve sometimes hungered to be seen, that may not be as much of an issue right now, your ‘all that’ should be fully visible now. More abundance is building. Show is more persuasive than tell.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your shadow is a treasure chest, but you have to get past your old shame to be able to dig it up. Have the courage to unearth your greatest gifts and talents, it’s worth it; face the past, face yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You might be able to work out some serious improvements to the daily grind now. When you invest into making your own life easier, there’s a daily payoff to be grateful for. Reach out to a friend.

COOL DOWN IN HOT TEMPS WITH A NO-COOK SOUP

It is getting so hot here that all I want to prepare are no-cook dishes. I always look forward to whipping up effortless cold soups in the dog days of summer and what follows is one of my all-time favorite recipes for summer heat.

This dish is a nod to Scandinavia thanks to the dill and shrimp. This Seriously Simple warm-weather soup only requires a food processor or a blender.

Avocado and cucumber are not only a happy combination in soups but also in salads — perfect for summer dishes. Dill weed has stems and fronds (the flowery sprigs). Use the fronds for this recipe. This refreshing uncooked puree of cucumber and avocado, accented by dilled shrimp, is flexible to serve for a dinner party or a picnic.

If you plan on serving this at a picnic, here is a neat trick to keep the soup cold: Pour ice water into a thermos and let sit for five minutes. Pour out ice water and carefully pour in the soup. It will keep cool for at least three hours.

If you want to lighten up the soup you can use non-fat yogurt instead of sour cream. Adjust the seasonings of the soup once it has been chilled. Chilled soups usually need more seasoning, since the chilling process reduces the flavor. You may also want to add extra dill fronds to perk up the flavor. You can always add some extra stock or sour cream to recreate the proper flavor and

thickness as

I

chilled rose wine to accompany this soup.

Serves 4 to 6

Note: I like to garnish a soup with at least one of the ingredients in the soup; in this case, it’s the dill.

1 large ripe avocado, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces.

1 large European cucumber, unpeeled and cut into 2-inch pieces

1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

1/4 cup finely sliced green onions

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup fresh dill fronds

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

To garnish:

4 cooked shrimp, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh dill fronds

1. In a food processor fitted with the metal blade combine the avocado and cucumber and process until smooth. Add the chicken stock, green onions, lemon juice, sour cream and dill weed and blend until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 2 hours.

2. Combine the shrimp with dill fronds in a small bowl. Serve the soup in small cups with a dollop of chopped shrimp and dill on top.

(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including “Seriously Simple Parties,” and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.) ©2026 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.