2026-08-01 - The Southern Ocean Times

SOUTHERN OCEAN

Christmas In July Brings Snow To Farmers Market

by

browse beneath rows of colorful tents at the Barnegat Farmers Market outside the municipal complex. (Right) Fake snow leant a real feeling of fun during the Christmas in July market.

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT - Snowflakes set the scene for Christmas in July as holiday magic came to the Barnegat Municipal Complex.

Children stretched out their hands and leaned into a stream of white “snow” blowing across the grounds behind the Barnegat Recreation Center. Within moments, the flakes clung to their hair, shirts and faces, as they laughed while the unusual summer storm swirled around them.

Nearby, children filled beach-themed Christmas ornaments with sand and shells. Barnegat’s own Santa and Mrs. Claus joined celebration dressed for the Jersey Shore rather than the North Pole. Santa traded his heavy winter coat for a red tropical shirt as he greeted his youngest fans.

(Market - See Page 4)

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 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.

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

Local Pharmacist Turns To Community For A Miracle

have just two to four years to live without a transplant.

By Stephanie Faughnan MANAHAWKIN

- For most of his career, Jay Greco has stood on the other side of the pharmacy counter, helping people understand their medications, manage illnesses and afford their care. Now, the 57-year-old Manahawkin resident and owner of Jersey Shore Pharmacy in Barnegat is the one waiting for help.

Bus Aide Positions

Discussed

By Alyssa Lidman LITTLE EGG HAR-

BOR - The Little Egg Harbor Board of Education approved bus aide positions but had questions about their pay.

These were part of a long list of personnel changes during a recent meeting. The aides will be part of an extended school year program for special education students. They included six part-time bus aides. The positions will be from Monday, July 6 through Thursday, August 6 and will be

paid $25 per hour.

The board approved three bus aides for students who require a one-to-one staff person, from Monday, July 6 through Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026 and will be paid $30 per hour.

The board also approved 38 substitute bus aide positions who will be paid $30 per hour and will work between the same calendar dates on an as-needed basis. Members of the board raised questions regarding the salaries of

(Miracle - See Page 13) (Bus Aide - See Page 7)

Market:

Continued From Page 1

When the crafts were finished, children scattered across the playground. They climbed the equipment, crossed the play structures and raced down the slides before running around to do it all again.

Christmas in July was part of Kids Club, one of the new attractions helping turn the Barnegat Farmers Market into more than a place to pick tomatoes, corn and fresh flowers.

Stacey Fahringer of Barnegat Recreation is credited with bringing the Kids Club to the weekly market. The goal is to give families a reason to stay and enjoy the recreation area while supporting local farmers, food vendors and artisans.

The Barnegat Farmers Market is held Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot outside the Barnegat Township Municipal Complex at 900 West Bay Avenue. Kids Club runs from 11 a.m. to noon behind the Recreation Center.

Color, Flavor And Handcrafted Finds

The market can accommodate as many as 45 vendors. Green, yellow, purple and white tents form temporary shopping aisles across the municipal parking lot, filled with fresh produce, flowers, prepared foods, drinks and handcrafted goods.

Shoppers move through the crowd, stopping to examine displays, speak with vendors or sample something new. Shopping bags fill with vegetables, bread, plants and specialty items as the aromas of baked goods and kettle corn drift between the tents.

Stillwell Farms, Krowicki’s Farm, Eckert and Sassafras Farm are among the vendors bringing farm-fresh offerings to the market. Produce changes with the growing season. Shoppers may find tables filled with red tomatoes, green peppers, squash and corn alongside baskets of summer fruit. Bouquets provide another burst of color, while jars of local honey from Yellow Dog Apiary glow amber in the sunlight.

Bread and Bloom and Butter Me Up offer baked goods, while Bob’s Kettle Corn supplies the unmistakable scent of warm, freshly popped corn.

Those looking for something savory can stop at Danny’s Crabcakes, Fresh Guacamole, A & A Dips or Pickle Culture. There are also a few food trips and picnic benches set up. Magilla Gorilla serves cold water ice for shoppers seeking relief from the summer heat, while Dirty Soda and Make Wellness offer additional beverage choices.

Adults can also explore locally produced selections from Ocean Breeze Winery at Olea Gardens and RecklessTown Farm Distillery.

Not everything at the market is intended for the kitchen. American and decorative flags flutter above the displays at Ralph’s Flags, and floral arrangements brighten the Corner Flowers stand.

The handcrafted selections range from pottery at DJ Pottery to coastal pieces from Beach Glass Creations. Shoppers can also browse work from Stamped by Dawn, Ribbons and Things, Spiritually Wired and Nurture by Nature, along with merchandise from J&E Collectables, Lagoonlife apparel, Mrs. Coyle,

Mic Macks and other specialty vendors.

Bayside Chapel and the Barnegat Community Garden are among the community organizations represented at the market.

Participating vendors accept several food assistance benefits. Market information identifies vendors accepting WIC and Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program vouchers, along with SNAP and Good Food Bucks.

Together, the food, farm and craft vendors give the market the atmosphere of a small weekly festival rather than a quick shopping stop.

Something For Children

Each Thursday brings a different Kids Club theme. Before the midsummer snowfall, another week was devoted to what organizers called a “BEARY wonderful day.”

The Teddy Bear Picnic featured cuddly new friends, teddy bear T-shirt decorating, picnic snacks and plenty of smiles. The changing activities give children something to anticipate and turn a trip to the market into a family outing.

Ten-year-old Claire Deemer helps Fahringer with the market and Kids Club. Wearing a straw hat with a pink ribbon and a shirt bearing the “Claire’s Corner” logo, the soon-to-be fifth grader arrives before the market opens, accompanies Fahringer as she checks on vendors and assists younger children with the weekly crafts. Claire also interviews vendors about their businesses and products, helping visitors learn more about the people behind the market’s tables and tents. Although a bit shy during an interview, she gave an emphatic thumbs-up when asked whether the Farmers Market was a good thing.

A New Setting For A Familiar Tradition

The Farmers Market was previously held on the grassy field along Birdsall Street in Barnegat’s historic district. Its move to the municipal parking lot has drawn mixed reactions. Some long-time visitors preferred the former location, where the grass, trees and historic surroundings created the atmosphere of a more traditional farmers market. Others questioned whether a municipal parking lot could offer the same charm.

The new location provides practical advantages, particularly for shoppers using wheelchairs or walkers and parents pushing strollers. The paved surface eliminates the uneven or damp ground that can make crossing a field difficult.

The proximity of the Recreation Center also makes the expanded children’s programming possible while providing restrooms, indoor space and direct access to the playground. Parking, however, has become a challenge when the market is busy. Township officials have suggested parking near the Collins School and using the crosswalks for the short walk to the municipal complex. Some attendees have also been using the nearby Acme parking lot.

Fahringer said vendors have been pleased with the new setting. According to her, they requested the move and selected the Thursday morning hours to fit their schedules as they travel among markets throughout the area. Whether visitors come for fresh produce, prepared foods, handcrafted goods or Kids Club, the market’s evolution reflects an effort to give residents more reasons to make it part of their Thursday routine.

Scam Threat:

Continued From Page 1

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-9th) 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-9th) 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

WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR!

The Southern Ocean Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

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

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

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.

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.

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?

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

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

Jack Muldowney Candidate for Toms River Township Council (Independent)

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

Candy Banks Spring Lake Independent Running For Council

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

Can The Grand Old Party Be Grand Again?

On Memorial Day weekend while reflecting on

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?

S potlight o n g overnment

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.

Bus Aide:

Continued From Page 1 the bus aides.

Board member Christine Snyder stated, “So on page Roman numeral 14, we have buses listed at $25 per hour and then at the bottom of page 13, we have bus aides at a period of $30 per hour, and the same thing at page 14.”

The board of education approved four registered behavior technicians, RBT, bus aides for $35 an hour on an as-needed basis, according to the agenda.

“Now, I understand the RBT bus aide is $35 an hour. I expect, I understand that because that’s a separate certification and they’re at a different pay rate. But, I don’t understand the difference between the $25 an hour bus aides and versus substitute bus aides at a higher

pay per hour.”

Board member Laura Erber said, “I think I asked that last time and I was told that’s a requirement by [Superintendent] Dr. [Michelle] Cappelluti.”

Snyder said, “Why are substitutes paid higher? Historically, in the district, substitutes have been paid less for the same.”

Cappelluti said, “I don’t know. I will find out.”

Snyder said, “[Board member] Tiffany [Middlecoop] and I have discussed this. We’re getting hit with so many different numbers and so many different hires and different positions. It’s a lot to digest and then some days to have them discussed just prior to the meeting.”

Middlecoop said, “There’s never a straight answer. That’s my problem is there’s never a straight answer.”

Also as part of the personnel section of the agenda, the board approved the resignations of 10 staff members, including six paraprofessionals, transportation supervisor Michael Cofer, full time custodian Andrew Ramos, and per diem administrator Yvonne Reitz.

The board approved several stipend positions for the 2026-2027 school year including yearbook advisors Jordan Cusick and Shannon Kawka each in the amount of $2,250, student government advisor Joanny Hoffman in the amount of $2,250, and safety patrol advisor Timothy Vliet in the amount of $2,250.

The board affirmed the hiring of Elizabeth Castellano as a grade six teacher for $72,399 starting on Sept. 1, early childhood education teacher Katie Goya for $75,199, and grade 3 teacher Karlee Robertson for $72,599.

Guided Paddling Adventures Planned

HARVEY CEDARS – Alliance for a Living Ocean will partner with Harvey Cedars Marina for a guided paddling event this summer, offering participants a chance to explore the bay while learning about the local ecosystem. The outing will be held at 8:30 a.m. August 14 at Harvey Cedars Marina, 6310 Long Beach Blvd. The trip will last about two hours and will take paddlers out to Sandy Island and back, weather permitting.

The cost is $40 per person and includes a paddleboard or kayak rental. Participants may also bring their own paddleboard or kayak.

Organizers said the event is open to both experienced paddlers and beginners. Alliance for a Living Ocean members are eligible for a discounted registration rate.

All Yard Work • Shrubs • Trees • Mulch • Topsoil • Stone Flower Beds • Stump Grinding • Gutter Cleaning • Weeding Debris Removal • Pavers • Decks • Bulkhead Repairs Spring/Fall Clean-Ups

BILLY SCHOENEBERG CELL 609-661-5470

JOIN US for these Upcoming events

August 12 - Wildcat Shack Summer Showcase - Noon

Lunch event with program brings culinary creativity and a mission-driven story - Little Egg Harbor $20 portion of proceeds benefit program

Sept 22 – Women in Business hosted at HMH Southern Medical Center 10-11:30am

Hear from local health leaders as we celebrate Women in Medicine Month with networking, refreshments, and program in Manahawkin –no fee. Members only

Sept 30 – Local Summer Celebration Honoring Daddy O’s 20th Anniversary 5:30-7:30pm

Experience the very best of LBI—networking, complemented by seasonal menus, and a cocktail cash bar sponsored by Fulton Bank. A portion of $25 ticket sales will be donated to David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation

RSVP directly through Southern Ocean Chamber today!

Dasti Named To

2026 NJBIZ Law Power List

FORKED RIVER — Christopher J. Dasti, managing partner of Dasti & Staiger PC, has

been named to the 2026 NJBIZ Law Power List, an annual recognition of attorneys who have demonstrated leadership, professional achievement and service to New Jersey’s legal and business communities.

Dasti credited the firm’s attorneys, staff and his law partner for helping build a practice focused on serving clients and maintaining strong community ties.

He said the firm’s growth and the opportunity to assist individuals, businesses and community members remain among the most meaningful accomplishments of his career.

Dasti also identified artificial intelligence as one of the most significant challenges facing the legal industry.

As AI technology develops rapidly, law firms and other businesses will need to determine how to use it responsibly while adapting to changes in communication, research and daily operations, he said.

Award-Winning Blues Band To Perform

TUCKERTON – Rick Estrin & The Nightcats will perform August 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Lizzie Rose Music Room, 217 E. Main St.

The group has won the Blues Music Award for Band of the Year three times, including in 2025, and also received the 2025 Living Blues Critics’ Award for Band of the Year.

The band features vocalist and harmonica player Rick Estrin, multi-instrumentalist

Christoffer “Kid” Andersen, keyboardist and bassist Lorenzo Farrell, and drummer Derrick “D’Mar” Martin. Their latest album, “The Hits Keep Coming,” blends modern blues musicianship with both serious and humorous lyrics.

Tickets are $45 in advance and $55 at the door. For complete performance information, visit lizzierosemusic.com or call 609-276-6758.

Coast Guard Station

Plans Annual Open House

BARNEGAT LIGHT – U.S. Coast Guard

Station Barnegat Light will hold its annual open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. August 12.

Visitors will be able to tour Coast Guard boats and meet representatives from local police, fire, emergency medical services and beach patrol agencies. The event will

also feature a helicopter demonstration, boating safety information and local vendors.

Food and drinks will be available, along with activities for children. Admission is free, and the event is open to all ages.

The station is located at 601 Bayview Avenue. For more information, call 206815-6886.

Township Releases Guide To 2026 Municipal Budget

LACEY – Township officials have released an “Understanding Our 2026 Budget” guide designed to explain the municipal budget in a clear and accessible format.

The document outlines where local tax revenue comes from, how the money is allocated and which municipal services it supports.

Officials said the guide is intended to give residents a better understanding of the township’s finances and spending priorities.

Residents are encouraged to review the document to learn more about how the 2026 budget affects the community. For more information visit laceytownship.org.

EMS Plans Community Blood Drive

LANOKA HARBOR – Lanoka Harbor EMS will sponsor a community blood drive August 25 from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Lanoka Harbor firehouse.

Organizers said donors are needed to help support the local blood supply.

Appointments can be scheduled at redcrossblood.org.

C ommunity n ew S

Parker Grant Honored As Unsung Hero

EAGLESWOOD – Parker Grant of Eagleswood Township Elementary School was honored as the school’s representative at the Unsung Hero Student Recognition Awards at the RWJ Barnabas Health Arena in Toms River.

The awards recognize Ocean County students who have overcome obstacles, persevered through significant challenges or made notable academic progress. The program is sponsored by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Ex-

ecutive County Superintendent of Schools and the Ocean County Association of School Administrators.

Grant’s teachers described him as compassionate, determined, innovative and outgoing. They said he approaches challenges with focus, supports his classmates and leaves a lasting impression on those he meets.

Grant was also praised for his ability to connect with others and bring positive energy to the school community.

Fishing Tournament Grants Dreams For Two Children

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – The Southern Ocean County Chapter of the Sunshine Foundation raised money to fulfill the dreams of two local children during its 29th annual fishing tournament and family fun day.

Anglers competed for fluke and bluefish between Barnegat Inlet and Great Egg Inlet before gathering for a barbecue, music and activities at American Legion Post 493. Proceeds will help Ace, who has Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, receive an above-ground swimming pool for recreation and therapy, and Cheyanne, who has Down syndrome, visit Disney World to meet Minnie Mouse.

The tournament was established in 1997 and has raised more than $300,000 to support children with serious, lifelong health conditions. Organizers credited Matt Blatt Dealerships, local sponsors, volunteers, anglers and community supporters for helping make this year’s event possible.

Founded in 1976, the Sunshine Foun-

dation grants trips, adaptive equipment, playsets, swimming pools and other special wishes for children who may not qualify for programs requiring a life-threatening diagnosis. The organization says it has helped more than 44,000 children during its 50-year history.

More information about referrals, donations and the foundation’s programs is available at sunshinefoundation.org.

Army Of Hope Picnic Planned

LACEY – The Lacey Elks Lodge 2518 will host the 22nd Army of Hope Picnic from noon to 5 p.m. September 13 at the lodge, 900 Beach Boulevard, Forked River.

The annual event, themed “A Day of Remembrance & Patriotism,” honors fallen heroes, severely wounded service members, military families and Gold Star families throughout New Jersey.

Admission is a $25 donation for adults and $5 for children under 10. The cost includes food,

refreshments and entertainment. Tickets are available through lodge representatives Lenny Rucinski, Charlie Davis and Courtney Paige.

The Army of Hope Committee supports New Jersey active military service members and women, those injured in the line of duty and families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. For more information, call Marty Hickey at 201-538-7146, Rich Hamilton at 732-677-6036 or Robert Colwell at 908-230-7345.

Bingo On The Beach Returns

LACEY – Residents are invited to enjoy Bingo on the Beach this summer at Lake Barnegat Beach.

The events will be held August 6 and September 3. Card pickup and registration will begin at 6 p.m., with games starting at 6:30 p.m.

The beachside bingo nights offer a casual evening activity for families and community members looking to spend time outdoors along the lake.

Participants are encouraged to arrive early to get their cards before the games begin.

Community Service Days Begin At Ken’s Kitchen

MANAHAWKIN – Family Promise of the Jersey Shore joined local social service agencies for the first P.A.T.H. Ministry Community Service Day at Ken’s Kitchen Meal Service inside the St. Mary’s Parish Center.

The outreach events, organized by St. Mary’s Parish P.A.T.H. Ministry, will be held on the first Thursday of each month at Ken’s Kitchen, bringing community organizations together to connect residents with available services and support.

Human Services Expands Access In Southern

MANAHAWKIN – The Ocean County Department of Human Services will begin offering weekly office hours at the Ocean County Southern Service Center. Department staff will be available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each Thursday to help residents access information and services.

Ocean County

Assistance is available for housing, children’s programs, employment, mental and behavioral health services, disability resources and other needs.

The Southern Service Center is located at 179 South Main Street. Residents may also contact the department’s main office at 732-506-5374.

Elks Launch Summer Food Drive

FORKED RIVER – Lacey Elks Lodge No. 2518 is collecting food and personal-care donations to help community members facing hunger during the summer months. Requested items include canned goods, pasta, rice, peanut butter, soup, hygiene products and baby supplies. Lodge officials said donations often decline

during the summer even as families may face greater need because school-provided meals are unavailable.

Members are being encouraged to bring at least one can or box of food each time they visit the lodge this summer. Organizers said every contribution can help support local families in need.

Library Series Helps Kids

Return To School With Confidence

BARNEGAT – Children can learn mindfulness, stress management and friendship-building skills during a free three-week series at the Barnegat Branch of the Ocean County Library.

“Back to School with Confidence” will be held August 11, 18 and 25. Sessions for children entering grades 2 and 3 will run from 10:30 to 11 a.m., while programs for grades 4 and 5 will be held from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

The first session will focus on mindfulness, followed by stress reduction and

coping skills during the second week. The final program will explore ways to build friendships.

The series will be presented by NJ4S COMPASS Ocean County, a state initiative that provides prevention and mental health support to students and caregivers in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Registration is open and required. One registration covers all three sessions. Visit tinyurl.com/BTS-OCL, call 609-698-3331 or stop by the library at 112 Burr Street.

Two Swimmers Rescued From Rip Current On LBI

By Jason Allentoff

SURF CITY — Two swimmers caught in a rip current off Division Avenue Beach were safely rescued July 17 during a coordinated response involving firefighters, lifeguards, surfers and other emergency crews.

Surf City Volunteer Fire Company Station 49 was dispatched around 6:14 p.m. after receiving a report of swimmers in distress.

Responders arrived with a water rescue truck, personal watercraft, utility vehicle and ambulance. Mutual aid was provided by Stations 46, 15 and 13, along with the Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol’s after-hours patrol and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit.

A fire chief confirmed that two swimmers

were trapped in the current as nearby surfers entered the water to help.

Two trained rescue swimmers entered the ocean carrying flotation devices, while another responder used a rescue board. Crews also positioned a personal watercraft along the shoreline in case additional assistance was needed.

The swimmers were secured with flotation equipment and brought safely back to shore with help from the rescue team and surfers. Both swimmers were evaluated by Surf City Fire and EMS personnel. No serious injuries were reported.

Officials reminded beachgoers that rip currents can form quickly and urged swimmers to enter the ocean only near an on-duty lifeguard.

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 2025-2026 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.

Bumpers On The Beat Car Show Returns

WARETOWN – Ocean Township PBA

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

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

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

The rain date is November 29.

Miracle:

Continued From Page 1

Asked what frightens him most about living with a failing liver, Greco’s voice grew emotional as he answered: “Having an expiration date.” Just weeks earlier, Greco said doctors gave him a stark assessment. Without a liver transplant, he could die within two to four years. The disease is already taking away pieces of the life he built around his family, including a 10-month-old grandchild and another grandbaby on the way. Greco is searching for a healthy adult willing to donate a portion of their liver. Potential donors can begin the confidential screening process through a link established specifically for him. Completing the questionnaire does not commit someone to donation. Medical professionals determine whether proceeding would be safe. For Greco, asking publicly does not come easily. He is accustomed to being the person others turn to for help. Asked why he was willing to share his ordeal, the answer again came down to a few words: “I need to. I need to live.”

A Career Built Around Helping Others

Greco said a family friend in the pharmacy business sparked his interest in the profession, leading to a career built around caring for people and forming lasting relationships.

He owned Medicap Pharmacy in Barnegat from 1999 until 2007 and has owned Jersey Shore Pharmacy since 2009. He chose to work independently rather than follow policies created by corporate executives removed from the pharmacy counter.

At Jersey Shore Pharmacy, service begins with recognizing people. “We know your name as soon as you walk in the door,” Greco said. Over the years, he has watched children grow into adults and served multiple generations of local families.

His commitment to community health also led him to Coastal Volunteers in Medicine, where he serves as board vice chair. The nonprofit operates a free, nonemergency primary-care clinic in Forked River for qualified Ocean County adults without health insurance. When medications cannot be obtained through grants or other assistance programs, Greco helps provide them at cost.

The work has opened his eyes to the barriers that prevent some from receiving care. “The amount of people that live and work here that are either underinsured or uninsured is astronomical,” he said.

Greco’s illness has now placed him on the other side of the health care system. “It’s definitely a twist of fate where I went from being the primary caregiver to the one needing care,” Greco said. “When you need something, you don’t want to wait.”

A Disease With Few Early Warnings

Routine blood tests first revealed that Greco’s liver enzyme levels were abnormal. He had no symptoms, and doctors monitored him for approximately two years. Around Easter, the disease progressed to decompensated cirrhosis, meaning his badly scarred liver could no longer function adequately.

Greco said his cirrhosis developed from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, known as MASLD and formerly called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. MASLD often produces no symptoms in its early stages, according to the Mayo Clinic.

In some patients, it progresses to inflammation and permanent scarring. Advanced cirrhosis can cause abdominal fluid buildup, bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus, confusion, liver cancer and end-stage liver failure.

Greco undergoes weekly procedures to remove fluid from his abdomen, a condition called ascites. By the time he is due for the procedure, he becomes short of breath. He has also undergone a procedure to treat an enlarged vein in his esophagus and reduce the risk of life-threatening bleeding.

The disease has caused considerable weight and muscle loss. Greco’s weight has fallen from more than 240 pounds to as little as 188 pounds, depending partly on fluid accumulation. He no longer uses his rowing machine or takes walks, and golf is one of the few activities he has tried to retain. Despite his declining health, he continues working five days a week at the pharmacy.

The Limits Of The Waiting List

Greco is completing the evaluations necessary to be placed on the deceased-donor waiting list. However, doctors have warned that waiting for a deceased donor may not be his best chance.

A MELD score uses laboratory results to measure the severity of liver disease and help determine a patient’s priority on the transplant waiting list. Greco said his score is 17 on a scale that reaches 40.

That presents a painful contradiction. “I’m not as sick as some people that also need a liver,” he explained. “So, if a deceased liver comes in, the chances of me getting it are very slim.”

A transplant from a living donor could happen sooner and be scheduled before Greco’s health declines further. It is possible because the liver can regenerate. Surgeons transplant a portion of a healthy donor’s liver into the recipient, and the donor’s remaining liver and the transplanted portion can regenerate after surgery.

The family’s online portal indicated that 17 submitted screening questionnaires during the first week of the search, but it does not disclose their identities or screening results. That does not mean that any of the 17 are qualified as potential donors. Cheri had hoped to become her husband’s donor but was unable to qualify for medical reasons. “I would do it tomorrow if I could,” she said.

“We Can’t Lose Him”

Jay and Cheri have been together for years and will celebrate their eighth wedding anniversary in August. It is a second marriage for both, bringing together four children ranging in age from 20 to 33.

Cheri watches as the funny, strong and energetic man she knows becomes unable to maintain his usual pace. “It’s just hard,” she said, struggling to discuss the possibility of losing him. “Scared to death. Scared to death. We can’t lose him.”

Asked which ordinary moments he most wants the chance to experience, Greco did not mention the pharmacy, golf or any grand ambition. “My grandkids,” he said.

The family hopes Jay’s story reaches a healthy stranger willing to learn more. A potential donor does not need to know him personally, and people unable to donate can help by sharing his appeal. Those interested can visit nkr.donorscreen. org/register/microsite?id=20731&donationType=1

Cheri put the family’s hope more simply: “We need to find an angel who will save his life.”

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 (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!

GriefShare Program Offers Support for Those Coping With Loss

MANAHAWKIN – A GriefShare support group for people mourning the death of a spouse, child, relative or friend will meet through August 4, offering participants a place to find comfort, guidance and connection during a difficult time.

The program welcomes new members throughout the session, allowing people to join whenever they feel ready for support.

Meetings will be offered both in person and through Zoom on Tuesday evenings. In-person gatherings will take place at Main Street Alliance Church, 1000 N. Main St., with registration and refreshments from 6 to 6:30 p.m. followed by the group meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

For more information or to ask questions, contact Diane Knipper at 973-495-9312.

Ocean County Family Support Organization

OCEAN COUTNY – The Ocean County Family Support Organization is holding virtual Parents Support Groups every Thursday at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The virtual Parents Support Group is an informal support group of parents, grandparent and caretakers of children

with special emotional and behavior needs sharing concerns while supporting one another. The meeting ID for the Zoom call is 830-8271-1826.

Call or email to register; 732-569-6334 or email nina.sonatore@oceanfso.org. For more information, visit oceanfso.org.

’ 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 eightounce 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.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

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.

Elks Seek Cast Members For Veterans Fundraiser

LACEY – The Elks Lodge 2518 is seeking additional cast members for an upcoming production of “Fiddler on the Roof SR.” benefiting the lodge’s Veterans Committee. Organizers are particularly looking for three men age 55 or older to portray the husbands of three sisters. The roles do not require singing. Men and women are also needed for ensemble parts in group scenes. Organizers said the

experience will be stress-free, with no lines to memorize.

Performances are scheduled for October 9 and 10 in the evening and October 11 for a matinee. A second weekend will include evening shows October 16 and 17 and a matinee October 18.

Those interested may contact Helen Exel at helenex@verizon.net or text 940-391-8898.

Judge Halts $110B Warner Bros.-Paramount Mega-Merger Around the JerSey Shore

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.

Items For Sale

Limited Edition Dolls - From Ashley Cooper, Madame Alexander Bradley, Shirley Temple. Must buy all. Leave message. Firm $150. 732-341-9357. (32)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY

Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

Comic Books - I am paying cash for comic books from 1979 and before. Please call Steve at 732277-7327 anytime. (30)

JScott Firearms FFL dealer appraising and purchasing firearms from estates or individuals. No obligation. Discreet, fair offers. Call 215-595-5480 (38)

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

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums Rock Jazz Reggae Psychedelic. Call Rick 908-616-7104. Also Buying Comic Books. (35)

Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-abrac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)

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

CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)

CA$h PAID For OLD 45 RPM RECORDS - R and B, doo wop, soul, rock and roll, and rockabilly. 909-938-4623, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., bobo78rpm@verizon.net. (26)

I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45. Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782. (33)

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. Brian cell 732-804-8115. (19)

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

SALES, P/T - Reliable person for Family Business, Seaside Heights, Call 732-597-0388 (31)

Reliable and bi-lingual (Russian or other Slavic language) nanny - is needed in Atlantic county. We live in Egg Harbor, NJ, and are looking for a nanny to care for two daughters, a five year old and a newborn. We value gentle parenting and aim to create a safe environment where the girls can thrive. Start in mid-September. Ask for Laura, 609-833-0058. (32)

Certified Home Health AidesNeeded for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

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

Services

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

Absolute Gutter Company - Full Service Gutter Company. www. absolutegutterconj.com. 732774-7910 call or text. NJ License #13VH13757400. (33)

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

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

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

COMPUTER SUPPORT - Computer and Cellphone Assistance right at home. Certified Technician for over a decade. Call today! 732-9089919 or Jaephiera@gmail.com. (36)

APlus Home ImprovementsQuality work. Fair prices. Renovations, custom decks, painting, repairs and more. No job too small, give us a call. 908-278-1322. (36)

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

Services

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

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

Live-In or Live-out CaregiverExperience 30 years. NJ Driver's License. Have own car. Doctor Appointments, laundry and light cleaning. 732-439-9765 Zeina. References available. (31)

Experienced Gardener specializing in container gardens and house plants. Planting, design, refresh containers. Seasonal care, problems diagnosed, DIY advise. Free 5 step care plan with visit. Keep your containers thriving in all seasons. Joseph 732-232-8144. (24)

Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Talk it out with me, a safe, nonjudgmental listener. Meet it head on with my support, unique to you. In-person or on phone. Confidential. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891. (31)

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Transportation Services - Airports, Cruise Ships, Casinos, Appointments, Light Hauling with Pick-Up Truck. Call Bill 732-674-0378. (19)

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

THE RIDE GUY- Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (t/n)

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HVAC Installer/Technician Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays. Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

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(732) 451-0800

Viral Toms River Tornado Photo Exposed As AI Hoax

By Jason Allentoff

TOMS RIVER – A fabricated 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.

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 __”:

NBC sketch show, familiarly

1988 Miyazaki film

“The Rabbit Hutch” National Book Award

Pizzeria owner in “Do the Right Thing”

Actor’s stand-in, or a hint to what can precede

of

Exams for srs.

Hawaiian word for “family”

38 Sr.’s course for college credit

39 Sonia Sotomayor’s alma mater

Pie in the __

“I’m cool with that”

Deadly African snakes 46 Release, as a carabiner

“__ loves company”

Seashore

Late, as a library book

First game of the sea-

“Atlas” actor Liu

More impolite

Dreyer’s ice cream, east of the Rockies

“The Fresh Prince of

Artist Yoko

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

Diane Rossen Worthington

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

serve 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.