photo of thE wEEk

Little Greyson was out enjoying the beach, boardwalk and rides in Point Pleasant Beach for the very first time. The photo was sent in by Travis Verello. The whole family is now headed to Six Flags Great Adventure, courtesy of Jersey Shore Online. Want a chance to win tickets yourself? Email your summer pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get a message from us!

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

One of the most interesting forms of life on this planet is the coral reef, with their existence dating back approximately 240 million years. These colorful ecosystems are found all over the world. Unfortunately, they are at risk of being destroyed. The good news is that we can take some easy steps to help them bounce back and continue to thrive.

Contrary to popular opinion, the coral reefs are not plants, but in fact, animals. They live in large colonies and are of hard and soft varieties. They make up less than 1% of the ocean but are home to